In this episode of Midlife with Courage, host Kim welcomes Mikelann Valterra, a seasoned money coach, to discuss the intricate relationship between our emotions and financial habits.
Mikelann shares insights into how childhood experiences shape our money mindset and behaviors, highlighting the concept of 'money fog,' which encompasses the stress and anxiety caused by financial vagueness. Throughout the conversation, they explore the importance of financial clarity, the psychological aspects of money management, and strategies for overcoming underearning.
Mikelann also shares her personal journey with Argentine tango and her transition to money coaching, offering practical advice for women in midlife. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on integrating emotional understanding with practical financial management to foster a healthier relationship with money.
00:00 Introduction and Early Money Lessons
00:36 Welcome to Midlife with Courage
00:57 Meet Mikelann Valterra
01:07 Diving into Money Coaching
02:29 The Courage to Dance
05:25 The Journey to Money Coaching
08:55 Understanding Emotional Money
13:14 Gender and Money Conversations
16:03 Exploring the Conflict Between Service and Profit
16:36 Understanding Underearning
18:26 Navigating Financial Transitions in Midlife
20:04 The Practical and Emotional Sides of Money Coaching
21:52 Identifying and Overcoming the Money Fog
25:31 The Power of Money Mindset
27:53 Couples and Money: Finding Common Ground
30:00 Resources and Final Thoughts
If you would like to learn more about the emotional side of money, money fog or get her book Rise Above the Money Fog, go to Mikelann's website: https://www.seattlemoneycoach.com/free-resources/
Get in on the next Courage & Confidence Circle before it even opens. The waitlist for the March 2026 Courage & Confidence Circle is open so click the link below to let me know you are ready to grow your midlife confidence now!
Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.
If this podcast inspires you and makes you think, “She’s talking to me,” there’s a place where these conversations continue. The Midlife with Courage™ community is the podcast—plus deeper connection, encouragement, and support for midlife women navigating confidence, change, and what’s next. It’s a safe, uplifting space to be inspired, share honestly, and grow alongside women who truly get this season of life.
Midlife with Courage™ Community
Are you looking for more? You should check out my Courage & Confidence Circle! Join a supportive group of other midlife women who are ready to live with courage and stop waiting for someday! This 3-month program starts again in March 2026 and I would love to see you there!
Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here:
