Buying a car is a major financial decision, but many buyers don't understand how the process really works. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Dominic Genova, former auto dealer and author of Don't Get Taken for a Ride, about car buying, financing, trade-ins, dealer fees, and negotiating. Dom shares practical advice for consumers, including the four C's of credit, why you should shop the price rather than the payment, how to evaluate financing and trade-in values, what to watch for with rebates and dealer fees, and the questions to ask before signing a deal. We also talk about leasing vs. buying, reviews, and knowing when to walk away.

Your Medicare choice can have long-term implications. Or you can change it next year. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Steve Grossman, an independent Medicare agent, about some of the Medicare knowledge you need to know before you turn 65, as well as considerations for annual enrollment. We talk about the decisions people face when they first become eligible for Medicare, the different types of coverage available, and some of the questions you may want to consider when choosing a plan. Steve shares his experience helping people navigate Medicare and explains why the coverage that makes sense for one person may not be the right choice for someone else. We also talk about what happens after you enroll, including annual enrollment, changing plans, prescription coverage, healthcare needs, and the importance of paying attention when your circumstances—or your plan—change. As with many financial decisions, there isn't one answer that works for everyone. The goal is to understand your options well enough to ask good questions and make a decision that fits your circumstances.

Financial decisions aren't just about numbers. Our emotions, experiences, habits, and beliefs about money influence how we spend, save, invest, and plan for the future. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Dr. George Blount, financial therapist, finance professor, and founder of NBalance Financial. We discuss financial therapy, money mindset, and the connection between self-worth and net worth. George shares his research on Gen X and Gen Z financial behaviors and introduces his FINE method: Financial Independence, Nurtured, and Empowered. We also discuss money and happiness, needs versus wants, and why understanding your goals should come before choosing financial products or resources. https://www.selfworth2networth.com/

Life is not always what you expect it to be In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life) I talk with Steven Hoel of Have It All about his path from realizing the financial services profession he had always planned for wasn't the right fit for him.  We discuss career pivots, entrepreneurship, the importance of doing your research, finding opportunities in niche markets, and the unexpected ways businesses develop. Steven also shares his experience with family financial conversations, business succession planning, and what wealth means to him. https://HaveItTall.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-hoel-4937bb19/

How much does college really cost—and how can families make smarter financial decisions before choosing a school? In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Lessa Scherrer, a college admissions counselor who works with students and families on college planning, financial aid, school selection, and the admissions process. We discuss the financial realities of paying for college, including the total cost of attendance, FAFSA, need-based and merit-based financial aid, student loans, Parent PLUS loans, private loans, and the importance of understanding who is responsible for college debt. Lessa also shares insights about choosing colleges based on both student fit and family finances, avoiding expensive mistakes, considering alternatives such as community college and early college programs, and helping students navigate an increasingly complicated college process. https://Collegeinsidetrack.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lessascherrer/

How does credibility become financial equity? And why might trust, reputation, and ethical marketing have a measurable impact on a business’s financial success? In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Katherine Tuominen, marketing strategist, publicist, and founder of CatalystBrand Strategy, about the connection between brand reputation, credibility, marketing, and financial value. We discuss how brand equity can become financial equity through valuation, pricing power, and deal flow. Katherine also shares why credibility is an asset many founders under-invest in, how to build a strong reputation without relying on hype, and why trust can create a premium in today’s business environment. http://www.catalystbrandstrategy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/catalyst_brandstrategy/

Did you catch all of Season 4 of Marci Talks Money (and Life)? Join me and my wrap-up co-host, Caryn Martinez, as we look back at Season 4 and the many ways our guests helped us explore financial literacy, personal finance, careers, entrepreneurship, education, money challenges, and the ways money intersects with everyday life. We talk about the financial professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, creatives, and other guests who joined me throughout the season and the different perspectives they brought to conversations about money. We also discuss some of our favorite episodes—and discover that Caryn and I don't always choose the same ones! One of the goals of Marci Talks Money (and Life) is to make financial conversations accessible and useful, even when the subject is complicated. This season gave us plenty of opportunities to learn, ask questions, and look at money from different perspectives. Whether you listened to every episode or missed a few along the way, join us for a look back at Season 4 and the conversations that made it memorable. Topics include: • Financial literacy and personal finance • Money and everyday life • Careers and entrepreneurship • Education and financial decisions • Financial challenges and opportunities • Money management and financial choices • Lessons from Season 4 guests • Favorite episodes and memorable conversations

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Dr. Erika Rasure, a former financial advisor and university professor who became a financial therapist. We discuss how debt affects mental health, the connection between money behaviors and emotional well-being, and how changing financial habits can lead to financial freedom. Dr. Rasure shares her comprehensive approach to financial therapy, including the practice of yoga, and explains concepts like loud budgeting, financial literacy, and building healthier relationships with money. https://www.beyondfinance.com/

If you've ever wondered what the S&P 500 is, how it works, or why so many investors use index funds as part of their long-term investing strategy, this episode is for you. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Tom Bernard about his book, The Index of America: How the S&P Works & Why You Should Invest In It.  We explore the history of the S&P 500, how it compares to other major stock market indexes, and why understanding index investing is an important part of building long-term wealth. Tom explains how the S&P 500 is constructed, how it relates to indexes such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq, and what investors should consider when making investment decisions. Whether you're a beginning investor or looking to strengthen your investing knowledge, this conversation provides valuable insights into one of the most widely followed market indexes in the world.

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Clorissa Ritchie, Senior Content Specialist at Westerra Credit Union in Denver, Colorado, about de-stigmatizing money conversations, the connection between money and mental health, money dysmorphia, her work in financial literacy, and building a healthier relationship with money. Clorissa shares why there is no "perfect" financial path and explores resources available at credit unions and banks. We discuss practical ways to heal your relationship with money without feeling overwhelmed, embrace financial progress over perfection, and create healthy financial habits that fit your unique circumstances. Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or looking to improve your money mindset, this conversation offers encouragement and practical insights for developing greater financial confidence. https://www.westerracu.com  https://www.linkedin.com/company/westerra-credit-union https://www.linkedin.com/in/clorissa-ritchie-0413651aa  https://www.facebook.com/WesterraCU  https://www.instagram.com/westerracreditunion/

Financial literacy is an essential life skill, but teaching money concepts in a way that is engaging, practical, and accessible can be a challenge. Fortunately, it can also be fun. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Deb Kierstead, a longtime homeschooling educator who is passionate about helping students and families develop financial literacy skills through engaging and accessible learning experiences. Deb shares her perspective on teaching financial concepts to young people, making money conversations less intimidating, and helping families build confidence around financial decision-making. We discuss financial education, homeschooling, family learning, and the importance of introducing money skills early in life. Whether you're a parent, educator, homeschooler, or someone interested in improving financial literacy, Deb offers practical insights into making financial education meaningful, relatable, and enjoyable.

Debt affects millions of Americans, yet many people don't fully understand how debt works, how it evolved, or what options are available when financial obligations become overwhelming. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Bill Mitchell of LegalEdge Debt Solutions about the history of debt in the United States, the growth of credit card debt, debt management strategies, and resources available to help individuals regain control of their finances. We discuss how consumer debt has changed over time, the challenges many people face with credit card balances, and the various options available for managing and reducing debt. Bill shares insights into debt relief resources, financial decision-making, and practical steps individuals can take when debt begins to impact their financial well-being. Whether you're working to pay down debt, trying to better understand credit, or simply interested in the role debt plays in personal finance, this conversation offers valuable information and perspective. https://legaledgedebtsolutions.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Say-Goodbye-Credit-Card-Debt-ebook/dp/B0GX2SHPJY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2QANZE0WDW0KF&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AYkmOpbULfRE4ra-SWm57WBP0nC9FUAkocDnWZnbEO3ovD54OMh0iJ6R4IBIChUJDQ45aBx0pUnfxl3fANALKbvvn0XvktR0TB4eGUpQn0yf2GPLEPIIQUKldcjFhcmpfpY8M22ARjBE-j8J4rnwPmSnQg7Sk2iHAIDIyLSFo6lIAbiIPeU0vhjX4IESNJIdmavrFvJR51bRXvgr_0WZDw.jQjCsm-Sy72KUOLp2J46l10nRzs7qqpJT664byqe3zs&dib_tag=se&keywords=say+goodbye+to+debt&qid=1781206899&sprefix=say+goodbye+to+deb%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1

Financial literacy shouldn't be a mystery or a topic people avoid discussing. The more we talk about money openly, the more empowered people become to make informed financial decisions. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with financial literacy educator Stefon Bowman about his journey from math teacher to money teacher, his mission to make financial literacy a "kitchen table" topic, and his passion for entrepreneurship and community involvement. Stefon believes that financial education should be practical, accessible, and part of everyday conversations. We discuss the importance of teaching money skills, building financial confidence, encouraging entrepreneurship, and helping individuals and families make better financial decisions through education and experience. We also explore his hands-on approach to entrepreneurship, his commitment to community engagement, and the role financial literacy can play in creating opportunities and improving outcomes for future generations.

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Kina Morgan, CPA, and Kimberly Johnson, CPA, partners at Your Balanced Partners CPA firm and hosts of the Balance Your Books podcast. We discuss accounting, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, communicating financial information to non-accountants, and the challenges of creating and sustaining successful non-profit organizations. Kina and Kimberly share insights about their finance "super powers," the value of collaboration, the power of the pivot, and how strong relationships can contribute to both personal and professional success. This conversation explores business growth, nonprofit organizations, financial education, friendship, adaptability, and helping people better understand and manage their finances.

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Sonia Martinez-Trujillo about making financial advising more accessible, career pivots, bilingual communication, homeschooling, and creating opportunities through education and adaptability. We discuss financial literacy, personal finance, career changes, entrepreneurship, family life, and the importance of making financial education understandable and approachable for diverse communities. Sonia also shares insights about being bilingual, balancing family and professional responsibilities, and navigating life transitions with resilience and intention. This conversation explores the connection between financial accessibility, education, communication, personal growth, and creating meaningful opportunities through lifelong learning and adaptability. https://www.forfiduciary.com/meet-sonia https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamartinez-trujillo/

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Barry Bradham, serial entrepreneur and founder of DigiLink, about entrepreneurship, technology, artificial intelligence, and scaling successful businesses. We discuss the opportunities of AI in business, the importance of mentorship and networking, and how entrepreneurs can build sustainable growth. Barry shares insights from his experience building companies, navigating change, and preparing for the future of business in an increasingly technology-driven world. This conversation is perfect for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone interested in AI, innovation, leadership, and the future of technology. https://ComeWinWithMe.com https://digilink.global/barrybradham-entrepreneur

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life) I talk with Crista Cloutier about the financial realities of creative entrepreneurship, including bankruptcy, rebuilding financially, and the challenges many artists and creatives face while building a career. In this episode, we discuss the business side of art, financial literacy for creatives, entrepreneurship, money management, financial setbacks, and the lessons that can come from difficult financial experiences. Crista also shares insights about resilience, creativity, and navigating career growth and change. Whether you are an artist, entrepreneur, freelancer, or someone working through financial challenges, this conversation offers practical insights, honest discussions, and real-life experiences about money, life, and creative careers. https://theworkingartist.com https://www.youtube.com/@CristaCloutier

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life) I talk with Jillian Hishaw, founder of FARMS (Family Agriculture Resource Management Services), a national agricultural nonprofit organization, about financial challenges facing farmers, rural communities, and families. In this episode, we discuss agriculture, financial literacy, Medicaid, bankruptcy, liens, foreclosures, legal advocacy, and the real-life financial issues that impact individuals, businesses, and communities. Jillian also shares her journey as an attorney, advocate, and nonprofit leader, along with the experiences and motivations that shaped her work. This conversation explores the connection between money, law, agriculture, and everyday life while highlighting practical financial and legal topics that affect many people across the country. https://www.hishawlaw.com https://www.30000acres.org

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life) I talk with Melissa Murphy Pavone about discuss communication during divorce, financial literacy, hidden assets, divorce remorse, money management, financial planning, and the challenges individuals and families often face during major life transitions. Melissa also shares insights from her work helping people navigate divorce with greater financial awareness, preparation, and confidence. This conversation explores the connection between money, relationships, life changes, and financial decision-making while offering practical guidance and real-world perspectives on navigating divorce and financial uncertainty. https://mindfuldivorcepartners.com https://mindfulfinancialpartners.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamurphypavone/

In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life) I talk with Ohan Kayikchyan of Alohana Financial about his journey to becoming a financial professional. In this episode, we discuss financial literacy, career growth, education, life choices, professional pivots, and the lessons learned through unexpected U-turns along the way. We also explore personal finance, money management, career development, and how life experiences can shape both financial decisions and professional success. Whether you are building a career, considering a career change, or looking to improve your relationship with money, this conversation offers practical insights, real-life experiences, and valuable financial perspectives.  https://www.alohanafinancial.com

Join Marci Talks Money (and Life) for a conversation with David Maurice Sharp—financial professional, dancer, author, teacher, and speaker—about money, mindset, and the real financial lives of artists, freelancers, and gig workers. We explore how creative professionals can take control of their money while navigating the challenges of irregular income, self-employment, and passion-driven work. David shares insights on building financial stability, improving money habits, and redefining what financial success looks like outside of traditional 9–5 careers. Whether you’re an artist, freelancer, performer, or side-hustler, this episode will help you think differently about money and give you practical ways to build more confidence and control in your financial life. Topics include: - Managing money with inconsistent income - Financial strategies for freelancers and gig workers - Building stability as a creative professional - Money mindset shifts for artists and entrepreneurs - Balancing passion, purpose, and financial responsibility If you’re building a creative career and want to make your money work with your life—not against it—this conversation is for you. https://www.davidmauricesharp.com/

Join me with my guests Kelly and Sydney Arrendell from the podcast An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth as we talk about their show, lessons, family, money, life, and so much more. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/an-incomplete-guide-to-personal-growth/id1725526285

Join me as I talk with Andy Ellwood, founder of Stretch about grocery pricing, his entepreneurship journey, family, money, life, and so much more. https://stretchgroceries.com/ https://makeroom.fm

Catch the wrap up of Season 3 with my good friend, frequent guest Caryn Martinez. We will talk about all the guests from the season. Find out what you missed. https://discord.gg/QwZ5YjHDzu (Includes Sortganize! for decluttering, and Everyone Write! for writing.) https://facebook.com/caryn.angelique.martinez 

Join me as I talk with Bostic Poindexter about The Road to Financial Freedom, the boardgame he created to help educate people about financial literacy. https://www.playfinancialfreedom.com https://www.instagram.com/bosticp_/ https://www.instagram.com/playfinancialfreedom/ https://www.tiktok.com/@playfinancialfreedom