Shows
Real Money, Real ExpertsBreaking It Down: Turning Financial Complexity into Clarity with Derek BrainardIn this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Derek Brainard, Director of Financial Education at AccessLex Institute, who shares how his background as a Navy trumpet player shaped his unique, down-to-earth approach to personal finance. From managing student loans to navigating economic uncertainty and the rise of AI, Derek offers insights for financial professionals looking to better support clients in a rapidly changing world. Tune in as we explore the importance of breaking down complexity into bite-sized steps, centering life goals in financial conversations, and staying curious as lifelong learners. Whether you're a seasoned AFC or...2025-08-0535 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsLearning Beyond the Lecture: Teaching Real-Life Financial Lessons with Dr. Jessica Limbrick, AFC®️In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Dr. Jessica Limbrick, an Accredited Financial Counselor®, researcher, and Assistant Professor at Nevada State University — and yes, she’s also the woman who throws full-blown birthday parties for 59½.Jessica shares how her early fascination with personal finance, her own lived experiences, and a pivotal poverty simulation shaped her teaching philosophy. She talks about using metaphors, milestones, and empathy to bring financial concepts to life for her students — many of whom are working full-time or caring for families while attending college.We explore...2025-07-2235 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsGeneration Preservation: What We Leave Behind with Glen Cone, AFC®In this episode, we’re joined by Glen Cone, AFC®, a seasoned financial counselor with more than 15 years of experience serving individuals in estate and end-of-life planning. Glen shares insights from his personal and professional journey—including his work as a counselor for the VBBP program and Magellan Health—and invites us to explore the concept of Generation Preservation: the intentional act of documenting and preserving personal and financial legacies for future generations.From demystifying estate transitions to understanding the emotional weight clients carry as they age, Glen provides practical guidance for AFC® professionals supporting clients through some of...2025-06-1023 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsMore Than Your Money with Jessica Moorhouse, AFCC®In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by Jessica Moorhouse, a leading financial educator, podcast host, and founder of MoorMoney Media Inc. Jessica’s passion for financial literacy started early—she worked her way through university and mastered frugality. But after stepping into the professional world, she realized that budgeting alone wasn’t enough to achieve the life she dreamed of. Determined to learn more, she became an expert in financial planning and building wealth, eventually leaving her marketing career to launch her own financial education company.Join us as we discuss Jessica’s journey...2025-02-1824 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsJoin Me At #AFCPE with Dr. Brandy Baxter, AFC®️In the Season 6 premiere of Real Money, Real Experts, we’re joined by 2025 Board President and our new co-host Dr. Brandy Baxter, AFC®️, the powerhouse behind Living Abundantly and Envision 30. As an Accredited Financial Counselor®️, financial coach, and strategic leader, Brandy helps individuals and organizations think from the future to achieve financial success. With a wealth of experience—including her service in the U.S. Air Force, leadership in financial education, and dedication to community building—Brandy brings a unique perspective on how forgiveness plays a crucial role in financial well-being.Join us as we discuss the power of com...2025-02-0425 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsVoices of Symposium: Real Experts, Real TakeawaysIn this special season finale, Rachael and Mary bring you voices of #ExperienceAFCPE2024 attendees directly from the symposium floor. Attendees share their experiences, key takeaways, and advice for financial educators and those entering the field. This compilation of mini-interviews offers unique insights into the world of financial education and the power of shared learning.This episode is also Mary’s final episode as podcast co-host. After 5 years, Mary is passing the baton to a new co-host – to be announced in the new year. Mary and Rachael reminisce about the good times, the laughter, and look forward to a ne...2024-12-0337 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsIt's Not You, It's The System with Dr. Michael G. ThomasIn this powerful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson sit down with Dr. Michael G. Thomas Jr., a financial empathy expert and lecturer at the University of Georgia, who is changing the way we think about money and wealth. As an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®), Dr. Thomas’s work emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-compassion, and active listening in financial counseling and planning. We explore his unique philosophy that the journey to financial health is deeply relational—not just about personal gain but about shouldering each other’s burdens and celebrating each other's...2024-11-1233 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsBeyond Shame & Blame: Building Bold Money Habits with Syble SolomonIn this insightful episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Syble Solomon, the visionary behind Money Habitudes and a trailblazer in the world of financial behavior. Syble shares her unique journey, from her early career as a Peace Corps volunteer to becoming a Financial Behavior Specialist, transforming how people understand their relationship with money. We explore her "deck of cards" approach to life, the pivotal moments that shaped her work, and how AFCPE® has played a crucial role in her success. Get a sneak peek into AFCPE 2024, learn about Syble’s breakthrough mome...2024-10-0138 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsEmpowering the Next Generation with Dr. Tiffany Murray, AFC®️In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Murray, AFC®️ the Managing Director of the Society for Financial Education and Professional Development, Inc. (SFEPD). Tiffany shares her journey from leading Red to Black®️ Peer Financial Coaching at Texas Tech University to becoming a driving force behind SFEPD’s financial literacy programs. We explore how her core purpose and mission align with empowering the next generation to make informed money decisions. Tiffany discusses the innovative use of Money Management Essentials (MME) to train student ambassadors, offering insights into bridging the gap between old and new fina...2024-08-2029 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsAdvocacy in Action: Using Your Voice to Make a Difference with Raven Newberry, AFC®This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we delve into the power of community and advocacy with Raven Newberry, AFC®. Raven Newberry is the managing director of policy and advocacy for the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), leading efforts to shape financial education policies on state and national levels. In this episode, we discuss how using your voice to advocate for change can create powerful ripples throughout your community. Join us as we explore the collective fingerprints of the AFCPE community in supporting the passing of crucial legislation and the impact we can make at the local and c...2024-07-2325 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsHow To Be A Servant Leader with Gilbert Rogers"Tailor what you're doing to the audience that you're serving."-Gilbert Rogers.On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Gilbert Rogers, AFC. Gilbert is the Director of Financial Wellbeing at UNC Chapel Hill. He is a national thought leader in the financial education space and has worked with the Army’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and participates as a financial counselor for the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP). In this enlightening conversation, Gilbert shares the importance of financial empowerment and his mission to...2024-05-1428 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsThe Journey to 100 Episodes with Rachael & MaryStep into the spotlight with us as we commemorate the 100th episode of Real Money, Real Experts. In this special episode, we reminisce on the trials, triumphs, and unforgettable moments that have defined our podcast journey and look ahead to the future. We pull back the curtain to give you a look at our podcast journey, answer listener questions, and share some of our favorite moments along the way. But this episode isn't just about us—it's about you, the people who have been the heartbeat of Real Money, Real Experts since its inception. As we take a t...2024-04-3038 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsBuilding Bridges: A Journey of Passion and Purpose with Lynne PattersonOn this week's episode, co-hosts, Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson, are joined by AFCPE Board Member and FINRA Foundation Fellow, Lynne Patterson, AFC. Lynne's expertise and passion for fostering collaboration and resilience stem from her deep military connections. As both a service member and a dependent she has moved an astounding 35 times, providing her with a unique lens into the challenges that military families face. On this episode, we dive into Lynne's unique professional journey, and we celebrate the transformative power of community and the tireless efforts of changemakers like Lynne who are creating a brighter, m...2024-03-1921 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsAuthenticity Unleashed: Embracing Your Superpower with Amy SmithJoin hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson in a captivating conversation with special guest Amy Smith, AFC, Founder of My BPD, My Money, and Member Engagement Coordinator for AFCPE. In this enlightening episode, Amy shares her inspiring journey to achieving the AFC certification, emphasizing the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity. Discover how embracing her true self opened doors to countless opportunities, and learn invaluable insights on leveraging personal strengths for positive impact. Tune in for a dose of motivation and wisdom that will empower you to unlock your own potential and thrive.Show Notes:2024-02-2023 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsWhat's Next With Money with Brent Neiser, CFP®, AFC®Brent Neiser has an incredible range of work and impact in the personal finance space. Every time we connect, we learn something new! Brent started his journey as a financial planner, but his heart for service led him to a rich career in financial education.On this episode, we learn how the AFCPE community has impacted his career, why he believes in the value of the AFC, and why he calls himself "Mr. Horizontal" - hint: it has to do with his curiosity and passion for a breadth of knowledge.Brent talks about...2024-01-2327 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsThere is No "One Way" to do Personal Finance with Markia Brown, AFCMarkia Brown is an award-winning financial educator and content creator, an Accredited Financial Counselor, and an AFCPE member with a talent for making complex financial topics accessible, particularly to younger generations.Her mission focuses on uplifting underserved communities and offering them vital tools and education to achieve their definition of financial success. She believes that its not just about bridging gaps, but reshaping financial narratives for the better.On this episode, Markia shares her unique story, what led her to AFCPE, and the impact the AFC has made on her and on those she serves...2024-01-0227 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsFind Your People with Andi Wrenn, AFC®This week, Real Money, Real Experts, was live on YouTube with AFCPE Board President, Andi Wrenn. Andi, Mary, and Rachael recap all things 2023 AFCPE Symposium. If you joined us for Symposium this year, come reminisce with us. If you didn't attend this year, tune in to learn what its all about. We also get to learn more about Andi's professional journey, and she shares two times the two cents!Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC C...2023-12-0829 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsRecognizing the Value of Cultural Competency with Lazetta BraxtonLazetta Braxton, MBA, CFP® is on a mission to create wealth for the common good. She believes in fighting for voices that have not been heard, and has built her career around making room for underserved and overlooked populations. In this episode, we get to know Lazetta - her family history and her career path, and she shares a preview of the conversation we'll be having as part of her keynote presentation at this year's Symposium. We talk about the importance of cultural competency, understanding the experiences and backgrounds of our clients, and the importance of building ca...2023-11-0723 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsFacets of Consumer Protection with John McNamara, CFPBToday’s guest is John McNamara, Principal Assistant Director of Consumer Credit, Payments, and Deposits Markets at the CFPB. In this episode, John shares his professional journey from debt collection to his current role at the CFPB. He talks to us about the latest research from the Bureau, and gives us some of his favorite CFPB resources - designed to support you and your clients. We’re excited to have John join us on the main stage later this year. To hear more, we hope you’ll join us in NOLA or virtually: https://www.afcpe.or...2023-10-2421 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsThe Art of Storytelling and Story Listening with Dr. Preston CherryDr. Preston Cherry, AFC®, CFP®, CFT-1 is the Founder & President of Concurrent Financial Planning, the Head of the University of Wisconsin Green Bay Financial Planning Program, and also a keynote speaker at this year's AFCPE Symposium. Preston is passionate about the ways that storytelling and listening can help us better connect with clients, advance human lives, and inspire transformation. In this episode, Preston shares the influence of stories in his own life and how they have shaped his journey. We take a look at the ways stories can increase engagement and build trust. And we talk about men...2023-10-1026 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsStudent Loan Repayment: What you need to know with Ryan Law, AFC®,CFP®With the student loan pause coming to an end and a new repayment plan announced, we wanted to answer your questions. And who better to help us break down the new Student Loan SAVE plan than Ryan Law.Ryan H. Law is an award-winning educator who teaches in the Personal Financial Planning program at Utah Valley University. He’s a Certified Financial Planner, an Accredited Financial Counselor®, past President of the AFCPE Board of Directors, and also a leading expert in student loans. In today's episode we discuss the benefits of the SAVE plan...2023-08-2929 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsListening for Readiness with Dr. Erika Rasure"The greatest gift we can give our clients is providing that space where they can find the presence of the feeling that they are not alone.” Today’s guest, Dr. Erika Rasure, is a financial therapist and deep transformational coach; the Chair of the Research Board for the Financial Therapy Clinical Institute; and a Client Financial Therapist for Beyond Finance.In this episode, we discuss the biases that exist within the industry; how money stories and very human decisions are too often surrounded by embarrassment or shame; and the importance of helping people move through finan...2023-06-2024 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsMeasuring Client Impact with Michael Kothakota, PhD, CFP®, AFC®Our guest today, Michael Kothakota is the head of research at the CFP Board. In this episode, we learn about Michael’s path into financial services, and how the AFC curriculum - on the way to becoming a planner - helped broaden his perspective and enabled him to better support clients. We discuss how critical it is for financial professionals to be able to effectively connect solutions to human needs, and the importance of relational skills and building trust with our clients. We also get a glimpse into the early stages of CFP Board’s client impact stud...2023-06-0630 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsTechnology, Authenticity, and Behavioral Finance with Daniel CrosbyThis week on "Real Money, Real Experts", Rachael and Mary sit down with psychologist and behavioral finance expert, Daniel Crosby. This conversation was a fun one, covering everything from epic failures to Chat GPT to the power of authenticity - which starts with doing the hard internal work on ourselves.Daniel reminds us that technology is our friend, shares some great book and podcast recommendations, and offers words of wisdom from his father that we can all benefit from remembering.Show Notes:1:25 Daniel's journey into this field3:45 How...2023-05-0929 min
Real Money, Real ExpertsBringing the Arts to Financial Education with Julie Beckham, AFC®Today’s guest believes that personal finance is a topic to sing and dance about! Julie Beckham, AFC® has taken her passion and turned it into a career, marrying her love for the arts with financial education. Her musical, Ms. Money and the Coins, has been shared with more than 80,000 elementary-age students in Massachusetts and is now available nationwide as an online learning platform - in both English and Spanish. In addition to all things K-12 financial education, we also discuss the amazing opportunity that banks have to help bridge financial education from youth to adulthood; and the...2023-04-2523 min