Shows
The Finance GirliesInvesting before you’re ready with financial advisor Zina KumokHey girlies,We hear from a lot of you that investing feels… scary.Trust us, we get it. As finance writers, we both shy away from the topic because we’re scared to get it wrong. But that doesn’t mean we don’t invest — we do, and we think you should too.So does today’s guest, financial advisor Zina Kumok (who likens investing to baking a pie — an unexpected yet delicious analogy ).Zina started her career as a newspaper reporter covering everything from March Madness to murder trials. After docume...
2025-08-131h 06
The Finance GirliesThe real cost of starting over: Cassidy's moving budgetHey Girlies,ICYMI, Cassidy just relocated from Washington to Minnesota after her divorce. And in today’s episode, she's breaking down every single dollar she spent (and made) in the process. This isn't your typical moving budget episode. We're talking about the decision to sell everything you own, start completely fresh, and what that actually looks like financially and emotionally.Listen in for:💰 How she turned her entire household into $7,500 cash in three weeks🏠 What it actually costs to start completely over — we're talking every single pur...
2025-08-0647 min
The Finance GirliesHow to separate finances after a divorce or breakup (Cassidy's story)This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thefinancegirlies.substack.comToday's episode is different. Cassidy gets incredibly vulnerable and walks us through the real process of untangling completely merged finances after divorce — and we mean completely merged. Joint everything, shared goals, nearly $700k in combined assets.This isn't just about the logistics (though she shares every spreadsheet detail). Cassidy gets honest about the emotional rollercoaster: feeling "sneaky and slimy" during the research phase, the paralysis of being a "procrastinating perfectionist," and what it actually felt like to watch her ne...
2025-07-3005 min
The Finance GirliesFrom spectator to CFO: Navigating divorce (and beyond) with Myra AlportLife has a way of throwing you some curveballs, especially when you’re least expecting it. And when life changes in a big way, your financial landscape usually does, too. Whether you're navigating divorce, supporting someone who is, or just ready to stop being a financial spectator in your own life, this conversation can help. Myra Alport is an accredited financial coach with over 20 years of experience who, after her own "gray divorce" following a 27-year marriage, helps women become their own CFOs with confidence, clarity, and humor.This episode gets personal as Cassidy opens up...
2025-07-2340 min
The Finance GirliesQ&A: How to talk money without ruining relationshipsMoney conversations don't have to feel awkward or create drama — they just require a little honesty and practice. In today's Q&A episode, we're tackling all the relationship scenarios that make your palms sweaty: navigating different income levels with friends, splitting costs with a new partner, handling family gift expectations, and everything in between.Whether you're wondering how to tell your bestie you can't afford that girls trip or figuring out finances with someone you just started dating, we've got some ideas for keeping your relationships strong while protecting your financial boundaries.This one's for an...
2025-07-1654 min
The Finance GirliesThe Lazy Girl's Guide to Summer FinancesSummer is for slowing down, not stressing about money. In this episode, we're sharing our favorite chill money moves that you can do while lounging poolside, waiting in line at the farmer's market, or taking a sunset stroll. We're talking about financial progress that doesn't require spreadsheets, complicated budgets, or giving up everything that makes summer fun. These are small, meaningful steps you can take without disrupting your hammock time or beach day plans.If you're not trying to do a full financial overhaul in July but still want to feel more in control without sacrificing what...
2025-07-0919 min
The Finance GirliesThe actual numbers behind our recent vacations (a full budget breakdown)In this episode, we’re doing something a little scary: sharing exactly what we spent on some recent vacations. No vague answers — just real numbers and honest thoughts about what felt worth it.Cassidy breaks down her incredible 13-day Italy adventure through four different cities, while Emily shares what she spent on a Utah desert trip that was basically winter therapy. We're getting into the details of flights, hotels, food tours, e-bike rentals, and yes—even that overpriced airport sandwich.Whether you're dreaming of your own big trip, trying to figure out realistic travel budgets, or jus...
2025-07-0234 min
The Finance GirliesBehind the scenes of Millennial home buying with Hillary GaleThis is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thefinancegirlies.substack.comHillary Gale joins us for the most honest conversation about millennial homeownership we've ever had. As a copywriter, agency owner, and two-time homeowner, Hillary shares every detail of her home buying journey — from feeling like homeownership was "impossible" to closing on her second house this year.But this isn't just about the numbers (though she shares all of those too). Hillary gets real about the guilt, shame, and anxiety that came with both purchases, plus the "oh crap" moments th...
2025-06-2511 min
The Finance GirliesYou're not bad with money: Finances and feminism with Ariel NathansonEver catch yourself saying "I'm just bad with money" and wonder why you feel so much shame around your finances? This episode might just change how you think about your relationship with money forever.Ariel Nathanson, founder of Finances for Feminists and certified financial education instructor, joined us for an amazing conversation that digs into why our money struggles often aren't personal failures. Instead, they're the result of systems that weren't built with women in mind.If you've ever felt behind on investing, guilty about your spending, or overwhelmed by financial advice that doesn't seem...
2025-06-1846 min
The Finance GirliesSummer reading list: The books we can’t stop recommending (part 2)Missing those childhood summers when you could read for hours without a care in the world? We're bringing back that magic with our favorite fiction, memoirs, and pure escapist reads for those lazy midsummer days.In part 2 of our summer reading series, we're diving into seven categories of books designed for pure enjoyment. We also get honest about how our reading habits have evolved over the years, share what's currently stacked on our summer TBR lists, and challenge each other with book picks we have to report back on.Whether you're craving light entertainment or...
2025-06-1138 min
The Finance GirliesSummer reading list: The books we can't stop recommending (part 1)Tired of self-help books that feel bro-y and out-of-touch? Us too. That’s why we're excited to share the reads that genuinely changed our relationships with money, gave us confidence in our careers, and made us feel less alone in our financial journeys — just in time for summer days by the pool.In part 1 of this 2-part episode, we break down our favorite reads across six categories: Money books that don't feel like a choreBooks that have shifted our entire money mindset Financial classics worth your timeCareer-leveling must-r...
2025-06-0431 min
The Finance Girlies$3,500 dress regrets & $8,000 bar tabs: Listener-submitted wedding gossipThis is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thefinancegirlies.substack.comWhen it comes to weddings and money, there’s SO MUCH to talk about. That’s why we wanted to dedicate our first subscriber-only episode to your juicy wedding confessions - the good, the expensive, and the "omg did that really happen?!"From the savvy bride who hired babysitters and pizza for kids so adults could enjoy the reception, to the revealing confessions about cash bars (a bartender's perspective had us in LOLING), this episode is packed with real-talk abou...
2025-05-2805 min
The Finance GirliesBudgeting for chronic illness with Amanda BourbonaisHey Girlies,This week we're THRILLED to share our first-ever guest episode! We sat down with Amanda Bourbonais, founder of Health First Freelancer, who's rewriting the rules on balancing finances and wellbeing. ⚖️Whether you're managing a chronic condition or just trying to *adult properly*, health expenses can crush your budget. So how do you prioritize your wellbeing without sacrificing other financial goals? 🤔Amanda's got answers. She built a six-figure freelance business while managing chronic Lyme disease and created a framework where health isn't an afterthought — it's the foundation.In this epis...
2025-05-211h 02
The Finance GirliesMoney stress is real — here’s how we’re dealingHave you ever laid awake at night, your mind racing with money worries? Or avoided opening your banking app because just seeing the numbers makes your chest tight?You're so not alone.This Mental Health Awareness month, we wanted to dive into something that affects nearly half of Americans — the powerful connection between our finances and our mental wellbeing.Because here's the thing: Money stress isn't just about numbers.It lives in our bodies.It affects our sleep.It impacts our relationships.And it sometimes ma...
2025-05-1422 min
The Finance GirliesInside our wallets: Our favorite credit cards and (simple) reward strategiesThe world of credit cards can be a little overwhelming. From understanding interest rates and fees to points-hacking and rewards , it can be hard to figure out which cards are actually worth having.That's why today, we're literally opening our wallets to show you the credit cards we each carry around. But don't worry, we're not points-optimization wizards spending hours tracking categories or timing applications. We're just two regular gals who've figured out how to get some pretty sweet perks without making our money lives too complicated.📌 Time Stamps: [00:00:00] The cards in our wall...
2025-05-0746 min
The Finance GirliesI do... but at what cost? Real talk on wedding expensesAnyone else think the wedding industry can be a little bit... extra? From the average wedding cost ($33,000) to the costs incurred as a guest, we're breaking down why weddings are so expensive… and how we think about spending when it comes to throwing the biggest party of your life. In this episode, we share what we personally prioritized for our own weddings, which traditions feel overrated, and how to create a meaningful celebration without giving in to industry pressure. 📌 Time Stamps: [00:04:00] The shocking statistics: average wedding costs [00:07:00] How much these Redd...
2025-04-3048 min
The Finance GirliesSummer expenses to start budgeting for nowSummer is just around the corner, and while we're all mentally planning beach trips and patio drinks, our bank accounts are quietly dreading what's coming. In this episode, we break down those sneaky seasonal expenses that somehow surprise us every single year. From al fresco dinners out to wedding travel costs, we're getting real about our own summer spending habits. Spoiler: We both spend more this time of year! Not only do we help you plan for what’s coming, we also cover practical strategies to enjoy summer for less.Episode Highlights:[0...
2025-04-2327 min
The Finance GirliesBreaking up with Amazon & big box stores: Our month-long experimentYou know about Dry January, right? It’s where you give up alcohol for the first month of the year. This idea inspired our own challenge, and in March, we each gave up a specific type of spending to see what would happen. For Cassidy, that meant cutting out Amazon completely, while Emily challenged herself to shop only at local businesses for all discretionary purchases. We called it Dry March and recorded everything to share in this episode.What began as a money experiment revealed a lot about convenience, community, connection, and the hidden mental load of mo...
2025-04-1640 min
The Finance GirliesQ&A: Financial literacy month editionMoney questions keeping you up at night? You're not alone! In this special Financial Literacy Month episode, we open up our inbox to tackle your burning financial questions related to all things personal finance.From the intimidating "how much do I actually need for retirement?" to the all-too-relatable "why do I feel so behind compared to my friends?", we’re answering your questions with our own experiences — without judgment or jargon.Whether you're stressed about investing, puzzled about budgeting with inconsistent income, or simply too scared to even look at your bank account, listening to this...
2025-04-0940 min
The Finance GirliesTax time: Real talk on filing, myths, and managing tax anxietyFiling taxes is one of those things we’re all expected to figure it out on our own. Unfortunately, this often means it can be confusing, frustrating, or even downright terrifying.In this episode, we pull back the curtain on their real-life tax experiences, from our first terrified attempts at TurboTax to navigating the complexities of self-employment taxes. We’ll also:Bust common tax myths, including what a “write-off” actually is and how tax brackets workShare personal stories of surprise tax billsOffer practical advice for building confidence during tax season
2025-04-0240 min
The Finance GirliesWhy making friends is so hard — but worth the investmentMaking friends as an adult is like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. We've all been there—scrolling through social media, wondering how everyone else seems to have a perfect friend group while we're sitting at home knitting. 🧶In this episode, we're diving deep into the art of building meaningful connections, breaking down the emotional barriers, and uncovering the surprising ways friendships can impact your financial and personal growth.From mindset shifts to practical strategies, we're sharing our own messy, beautiful journey of finding community (though it’s always a work in progress) and why...
2025-03-2634 min
The Finance GirliesThe true cost of getting a dogLet's be real: getting a dog is like accidentally signing up for a financial rollercoaster you never saw coming. Emily's first year with Clover was a wild ride of unexpected expenses, adorable chaos, and more love and cuteness than she ever imagined. 🥹 Spoiler alert: No amount of budgeting could have prepared her for this.In this episode, we cover:😴 The unexpected challenges of getting a puppy, from sleepless nights to separation anxiety📋 Why training is crucial and how it impacts both your sanity and your dog's behavior💰 The real costs of dog ownershi...
2025-03-1938 min
The Finance GirliesThe Splurges That Make Us Feel Like Millionaires (Even When We’re Not)Most personal finance advice tells you to cut all unnecessary spending — but we reject that mindset.Being smart with money doesn’t mean depriving yourself. It means spending intentionally — on things that bring you joy, make life easier, or align with your values.In this episode, we’re breaking down:💸 What makes a “good” splurge vs. reckless spending🛋️ Cassidy’s monthly house cleaner & why she’s never going back📚 Books, local art, & 14k gold jewelry — when quality is worth the price🏔️ Why Emily’s most expensive clothes are… hiking gear??✈️ The one...
2025-03-1238 min
The Finance Girlies💸 A Peek Inside Our Actual BudgetsMost budgeting advice is so generic. And it has to be… everyone’s income, priorities, and expenses are different.But we know there’s something helpful (and kind of fun) about seeing how real people budget. So today, we’re taking you inside our actual budgets — how we categorize our spending, what we prioritize, and which expenses always seem to catch us off guard.Even though we both use YNAB, our budgets look completely different — so whether you’re super structured or more go-with-the-flow, you’ll walk away with ideas for how to make budgeting work for you.
2025-03-0540 min
The Finance GirliesQ&A: Roth IRAsThe name “Roth IRA” doesn’t scream excitement. (It kinda sounds like a stuffy account you’d open in the 1950s.) But fun fact: Roth IRAs just became a thing in 1998, which is why even older generations are still getting excited about them.If you’ve been seeing everyone online shouting “Max out your Roth IRA!” and you’re like, Okay, but why?? — this episode is for you.Today, we’re answering your listener-submitted questions about how Roth IRAs work, who should open one, and how to actually invest the money inside. Plus, we chat about whether...
2025-02-2635 min
The Finance GirliesHow to merge finances with a partner (without losing your mind)Last week, we tackled the should you merge finances? debate. This week, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty: how to actually do it.Merging finances sounds simple until you’re in the thick of it and wondering:How do we split expenses fairly?What do we do about savings?Who’s in charge of paying the bills?Do we need a joint account? Individual accounts? Multiple accounts?If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the logistics, we’ve been there. And today, we’re walking you through how to set up a system that actually works for yo...
2025-02-1924 min
The Finance GirliesShould you merge finances with your partner?Should you merge finances with your partner? Money is one of the spiciest topics in relationships, and merging finances? That’s where things can get real messy.Some people believe not merging finances means you don’t trust your partner. Others think combining everything is a fast track to financial disaster. So… what’s the right move?In this episode, we’re diving deep into:How we personally handle finances with our partners (full merge? partial merge? separate?)The morality debate — Is it wrong not to merge? Does s...
2025-02-1235 min
The Finance GirliesHow Cassidy paid off $18k in student loan debt in 10 months💸 Ever wondered what it actually takes to pay off student loans fast?In this episode of The Finance Girlies, Cassidy shares her journey of paying off $18,000 in student loan debt in just 10 months — what worked, what didn’t, and what she’d do differently now.And whether you’re drowning in student loans or just looking for money strategies that actually work, you’ll walk away with plenty of ideas (and maybe a few “wow, she did what?!” moments from young Cassidy’s frugal habits).In this episode, we cover:✅ How Cass...
2025-02-0534 min
The Finance GirliesDebt 101: Is being in debt always bad?In today’s episode, we kick off part one of our two-part series on debt. Next week, Cassidy will share her personal story of paying off $18,000 in student loans in just 10 months. But first, we’re diving into our general philosophies on debt — when it’s helpful, when it’s harmful, and how to know if you should prioritize paying it off.We also share:A surprising (and a bit frustrating) Dave Ramsey clip about debt that sparked our discussionAverage U.S. household debt statistics (hint: you’re not alone if you have debt)Our thoughts...
2025-01-2929 min
The Finance GirliesHow to financially plan for the new year (5 steps + free worksheet)In the latest episode of the Finance Girlies podcast, Emily and Cassidy offer a guide to setting your finances in order for the new year with five actionable steps. They discuss clarifying financial goals, auditing financial accounts, checking major financial numbers, refreshing spending plans, and making a list of lingering financial tasks. Throughout the episode, they share personal anecdotes and practical tips to help listeners implement these steps in a manageable and stress-free way. Plus, they offer a handy checklist to help you stay organized as you work through these five tasks.✨ Grab your...
2025-01-1629 min
The Finance Girlies2024 Wrapped: What We Bought, Read & RegretIn the final episode of the Finance Girlies podcast for 2024, hosts Emily and Cassidy reflect on their favorite moments of the year by answering rapid-fire questions. They discuss their top books, best and worst purchases, goals for next year, new hobbies, and personal achievements. Emily shares her journey with doggy daycare and buying a new car, while Cassidy talks about a cozy new home and her love for crocheting. Join them as they wrap up the year with a heartfelt look back and plans for the future.00:00 Welcome to the Final Ep...
2024-12-3126 min
The Finance GirliesHow to spend smarter this holiday season without feeling like a ScroogeIn this Finance Girlies podcast episode, we share practical tips and personal stories on how to give meaningful, budget-friendly gifts during the holidays without feeling like a Scrooge. From using credit card points and setting gift budgets to DIY crafts and thoughtful low-waste options, we explore various strategies to keep holiday spending under control. We also discuss how to approach gift exchanges with financial consciousness and suggestions for inexpensive yet valuable gifts like food items, homemade crafts, and personalized mugs. Tune in for our top five pieces of advice and a rapid-fire list of creative...
2024-12-1737 min
The Finance GirliesQ&A: Choosing the right bank accountsIn this episode, co-hosts Cassidy and Emily give their top banking tips to help you maximize your savings and choose the right bank accounts. They discuss how many accounts you need, the benefits of high-yield savings accounts, and how to avoid fees and find good customer service. Learn the pros and cons of local credit unions versus online banks, and get practical advice on managing cash deposits and online banking. With personal stories and actionable tips, you'll be equipped to make smart banking choices and optimize your finances.00:00 - Welcome to the Finance Q&A
2024-10-2846 min
The Finance GirliesWelcome to The Finance Girlies PodcastThe Finance Girlies Podcast, hosted by finance writers Emily Batdorf and Cassidy Horton, offers a cozy corner for all things money. The hosts, published by well-known platforms like Forbes Advisor, USA TODAY Blueprint, and Yahoo! Finance, aim to simplify financial topics and address any financial question, no matter how small. Each episode they tackle those burning questions you've been afraid to ask, with no judgment, no jargon — just real talk about real money.📩 Join The Finance Girlies email list: https://www.thefinancegirlies.com/email-sign-up💻Visit The Finance Girlies website: https://www.thefinancegirlies.com/
2024-10-2801 min
The Finance GirliesMeet your host: CassidyIn this episode of the Finance Girlies Podcast, host Cassidy shares her financial and professional journey. Cassidy recounts her transition from a struggling college student with debt to a successful freelance personal finance copywriter earning over $100,000. She and Emily discuss the importance of financial planning, overcoming early career challenges, and the role of a supportive community. Cassidy highlights her experience with budgeting, managing student loans, and making career decisions like pursuing an MBA. Listen in on Cassidy shares how increasing her income and taking calculated risks have transformed her financial life. 01:10 - Cassidy's professional journey
2024-10-2833 min
The Finance GirliesMeet your host: EmilyIn this episode, we get to know Emily, one half of The Finance Girlies duo. Emily shares her journey from outdoor educator to freelance personal finance writer, her reasons behind the transition, and how she managed her own finances along the way. Emily highlights her experience with saving, opening a retirement account, and making career decisions that align with her values. Listen in as Emily shares how broadening her financial knowledge and taking calculated risks changed her relationship with work and money.01:00 - Introduction and Emily's background03:00 - Early savings habits a...
2024-10-2832 min
The Finance GirliesUnpacking our money beliefsIn this episode of The Finance Girlies, Emily and Cassidy unpack their lifelong journeys with money—from childhood perceptions shaped by family and experiences to adult financial habits. They discuss the swings between spending and saving, the impact of early financial fears, and the challenge of finding a healthy balance. 00:00 - Introduction to money beliefs01:48 - Early money beliefs and first jobs03:39 - Family influence on money perception07:01 - Frugality and spending habits12:26 - Money as a motivator2...
2024-10-2852 min