Decisions

Worried about the markets? You need to HODL.

I use the HODL meme from Bitcoin to show how it’s actually more widely applicable to your investments with real money. Things aren’t looking too good for the economy right now. Inflation is up, and gas prices are so high … Read MoreRead More

This is why you don’t want an adjustable rate mortgage (or private student loans)

An adjustable rate mortgage seems like a good idea, but when interest rates start to rise, you’re going to regret your choice. This past week, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by three-quarters of a percent. The last … Read MoreRead More

Why you should get a refund and not store credit

When you make a return, many retailers want to refund your money to store credit or a gift card, but here’s why you don’t want to do that. I had to return an item the other day on Amazon. It … Read MoreRead More

What are the credit cards I use in my business?

Take a look behind the scenes and learn about the credit cards I use in my financial coaching business and why. I started my financial coaching business informally almost a decade ago, but it was a few years later that … Read MoreRead More

Going for my AFC certification: How I got my 1,000 hours

I detail how I met the 1,000 Experience Hours requirement to become an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC). Two years ago, I decided to get my Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) certification. While I believe that you don’t need official credentials to … Read MoreRead More

Don’t let your husband manage all of your money

In our culture, it’s not uncommon for a woman to let her husband take care of all of the household finances. Here’s why that’s a problem. Disclaimer: I’m going to leap into the mono- and heteronormative for this post, but … Read MoreRead More

What to do with company stock

Some employees receive company stock as part of their total compensation package. Here’s what you want to do with it (and why). Note: This is not financial advice. Please see my disclosure policy for details. If you’re fortunate enough to … Read MoreRead More

What to do after an emergency has passed

Dealing with an emergency is challenging, but there is also an important process for getting back to normal after an emergency has passed. Mostly everyone has some experience of what it’s like to deal with an emergency. The pandemic has … Read MoreRead More

How will you spend your time in retirement?

While preparing for the financial aspect of retirement is important, it’s also vital to figure out how you’ll spend your time too. When you think of retirement, what comes to mind? (Okay, you probably are feeling some dread that you’ll … Read MoreRead More

The Loan Simulator: Finding your best option for student loan repayment

Explore an official tool called the “Loan Simulator” which shows you how to find the best repayment strategy for your student loans. I have a confession. When it comes to student loans, I can’t keep the different repayment options in … Read MoreRead More