This episode is sponsored by Fortress Debt . Get a free personalized debt playoff plan by clicking here. Norly Jean-Charles, attorney, financial independence follower, and Journeyer, joins the podcast to discuss her path from Haitain immigrant in Brooklyn to Penn Law Graduate. We chat about how her roots shaped her money narrative, why the strong women in her life are cornerstones to her success, and how she has kept her financial goals in the forefront of her life. In this episode we discuss: N...
Aug 07, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 386
This episode is sponsored by Fortress Debt . Get a free personalized debt playoff plan by clicking here. Leilani Reed-Logan, Journeyer and financial independence (FI) enthusiast, joins the podcast to discuss how Journey To Launch changed her life and why she is choosing happiness above all else, thanks to her newfound financial freedom at age 45. We talk about why Leilani decided to set out on the path to FI, despite being “older,” the lessons she learned from listening to this podcast, and how ...
Jul 31, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 385
In this rewind episode, LeDo and Shameka McDowell talk about their relationship and how they paid off $32,000 in debt and built $100,000 in net worth. Once they got on the same financial page, they were unstoppable. LeDo and Shameka are creators of the podcast The Marital Mission , a podcast about married life for young couples. They share with us an honest conversation about how to get your partner on board with your financial goals, the struggles that come with becoming debt-free, how to have ...
Jul 24, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 384
Once blogger Tracy Levesque released her article titled, “What I learned from binge-listening to the entire Journey to Launch podcast,” I knew that I had to have her on as a guest. She joins us after paying off $170k worth of debt and jumping on the financial independence, retire early movement. We chat about the growth mindset her mom passed down to her, her entrepreneurship journey, how true wealth is providing education, curiosity, and the understanding of the value of experiences over materi...
Jul 17, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 383
This week we are rewinding to Ariana Rodriguez's episode, who joined the Journey To Launch podcast to talk about her experience on the Netflix documentary, “Get Smart With Money” and how she was able to turn her finances around. We chat about how she used her skills to begin a side hustle, that eventually allowed her to quit her job, the power of forgiving yourself of past money mistakes, automating your money and more. In this episode, we discuss: The internal struggle and mindset that plays a ...
Jul 10, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 382
This week, we are rewinding to Journeyer, Josie Espinoza’s episode who shares her debt free story. She was the first in her family to go to college, but then found herself in $50K of debt which included student loans, credit cards, and auto loan debt. She discovered a passion for financial freedom and independence; and through listening to podcasts, she was able to learn what was needed to become debt free. Once debt free, Josie and her husband became focused on financial planning, saving, and s...
Jul 03, 2024•29 min•Season 1Ep. 381
This week we are rewinding to a conversation I had with Veronique Graves, a fellow Journeyer and former member of my past community the Money Launch Club. Veronique is a self employed sign language interpreter who is on her way to financial freedom. After becoming a member of the Money Launch Club, she went from living paycheck to paycheck to paying off debt, saving, and investing. Veronique advises those on their financial journey to be patient, set specific goals, and surround themselves with ...
Jun 26, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 380
This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast, I am sharing a conversation I had on IG Live with Lauryn Williams from Student Loan Planner . Lauryn provides crucial information for student loan borrowers about the Biden administration's Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) waiver for federal student loans, which can significantly impact loan forgiveness eligibility. The steps to take include: understand your loan type, consider consolidation, and take timely action before June 30, 2024 which is the deadli...
Jun 19, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 379
This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast, I'm featuring the second part of my discussion with Amanda Bauch, my book coach In this episode, Amanda interviews me about the experience of writing “Your Journey to Financial Freedom” — from its initial conception and the creative process to how it feels six months after its release. We also delve into the book's reception, its impact on readers, and explore the possibility of a second book and what I would do differently. In this episode, we discuss...
Jun 12, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 1Ep. 378
This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast, I’m speaking with my book, Your Journey to Financial Freedom’s coach and editor, Amanda C. Bauch. Our relationship has spanned over two years in bringing the book to life. On this 6 month anniversary of my book being out in the world, I am bringing you this conversation to provide a comprehensive look at the behind-the-scenes work involved in writing and publishing a book, plus Amanda’s experience as a freelancer and working for a big publishing house....
Jun 05, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 377
In this Q&A episode, I am answering questions submitted from listeners of the podcast, on topics including; how to reenter the workforce after 18 years of being a stay at home mom, is getting a CFEI certification a good idea & how to get your partner on board with your financial freedom dreams. I also discuss the importance of networking, building connections and giving yourself grace on your journey + much more. In This Episode You’ll Learn: Tips on how to network and promote your small busines...
May 29, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 376
George Kinder is an author, international thought leader, and founder of Kinder Institute of Life Planning with more than 35 years of experience as a financial planner and tax advisor. George is dedicated to guiding individuals in uncovering their deepest values and leading more fulfilling lives. His ultimate aim is to promote greater freedom in every aspect of existence. In this conversation we discuss: The importance of living in the present moment and mastering one's life. George’s three ques...
May 22, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 375
Bernadette Joy Cruz Maulion is a first-gen Filipina-American joins the Journey To Launch podcast to share how she paid off $300,000 of debt in three years and invested her first $1 million in her 30s. Today, Bernadette works only 20 hours a week in order to focus her financial freedom on joy: K-Pop, yoga, karaoke and spoiling her nieces and nephews as their traveling rich auntie. She understands those who feel like they missed the money memo, and is dedicated to educating others on financial top...
May 15, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 374
This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast, we have Jackie Cummings Koski, author of the award winning book “Money Letters 2 my Daughter” and her new book, “F.I.R.E. for Dummies”. Jackie overcame poverty, divorce and single motherhood and despite having a late start and making less than six figures, she reached Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) at age 49 in 2019 when she officially retired from her corporate job with a net worth of over $1 million. Jackie shares with us the importan...
May 08, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 373
Jannese Torres, Latina money educator, and author of the new book Financially Lit , joins us on the Journey to Launch Podcast to talk to us about her success in entrepreneurship and reaching her financial independence goals. Jannese highlights the significance of financial autonomy and safeguarding assets in unhealthy relationships. She shares with us her own experience with postnuptial agreements, the benefits of maintaining separate finances, why we need to normalize discussions on prenups and...
May 01, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 372
After paying off $30,000 of debt in 10 months, paying only $472 for her MBA, and buying her first home at 19, Whitney Hansen discovered her love for teaching others how to get better with their money. She travels frequently, teaches college students about personal finance as an Adjunct Professor, and tests side hustles for fun. Whitney’s most recent side hustle includes unconventional real estate investments of building a geodesic dome and a flower pot Airbnb. We chat about the creative approach...
Apr 24, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 371
Melissa Jean-Baptiste, financial educator and author of "So This Is Why I'm Broke” is a first-generation Haitian American and former NYC high school teacher. Melissa joins us this week to recount her journey of paying off $102,000 in student loans and buying her first home, all on a teacher's salary. As the founder of Millennial In Debt, she creates a shame-free digital platform dedicated to helping Millennials and Gen Z restructure their relationships with money, obtain financial freedom, build...
Apr 17, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 370
Back on the podcast this week is Giovanna "Gigi" Gonzalez, financial educator, influencer, founder of The First Gen Mentor, and author of Cultura & Cash . Gigi discusses how to set financial boundaries with family as a first generation immigrant using her Quiero y Puedo framework which stands for "I want, I can'' in Spanish, by first asking yourself if you truly want to provide financial support and if you actually have the financial ability to help. GiGi shares examples of how she has set finan...
Apr 10, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 369
Carleigh Bodrug is the CEO and Founder of PlantYou, a New York Times Bestselling cookbook author and self-taught plant-based chef. Carleigh founded PlantYou in 2016 after the World Health Organization announced that red and processed meat were now considered Group 1 and Group 2 Carcinogens which was especially shocking as Carleigh grew up on a “meat and potatoes” diet. With little-to-no cooking skills, and a tiny bachelor apartment kitchen, Carleigh started experimenting with plants. She began c...
Apr 03, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 368
In this week’s solo episode, I'm sharing how I am currently in a relaxed phase with my finances and business, focusing on having a balanced life and not stressing to maximize income for now. I give you tips for feeling financially secure during slower income periods and will guide you on how to reach this relaxed phase as well. In this episode you’ll learn: How knowing your income, savings, expenses and investment numbers will give you reassurance The importance of investments in achieving finan...
Mar 27, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 367
In this episode, we chat with personal finance expert and author, Lynnette Khalfani Cox, who discusses how to overcome financial setbacks and adversity. She outlines 10 common challenges people face that negatively impact them financially & emotionally, which she calls the "dreaded Ds". Lynnette provides us with some key strategies for bouncing back and assures us that there are always ways to recover and build resilience after a setback; focusing on your mindset and emotional health is the firs...
Mar 20, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 366
Mabel Nunez is the founder & Chief Education Officer at Girl$ on The Money - a stock market investing education company targeted toward individuals who are underrepresented in the investing world. Mabel grew up in the South Bronx as an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, with limited resources & a strong emphasis on education from her father. She learned very little about personal finance or investing while in school until she was in college, where she took an investing analysis class which b...
Mar 13, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 365
Maya Corbic is a first-generation immigrant, CPA, author of the kids’ book "From Piggy Banks to Stocks: The Ultimate Guide for a Young Investor", and founder of the Wealthy Kids Investment Club. From challenging beginnings in shelters and government housing, Maya draws from her experience of overcoming financial challenges & simplifies money matters to inspire children to pursue financial success. Her vision is to empower every child to become a financially independent adult. Maya Corbic grew up...
Mar 06, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 364
In this solo episode, I share the five key insights from my book, “ 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦: 𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩-𝐁𝐲-𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐓𝐨 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬. ” I talk about varying definitions of Financial Freedom, how to stay motivated on your financial journey, Five Journey Stages of Financial Independence, and more! In this episode you’ll learn about: How Financial Independence is a marathon, not a sprint The importanc...
Feb 28, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 363
Jessica, co-author of award-winning blog The Fioneers , speaker, and lifestyle design coach, joins the Journey To Launch podcast for a second time to discuss how her and her partner transitioned from corporate America to van-life entrepreneurs. We chat about unconventional paths and balanced approaches to Financial Independence, tips to reach FI, navigating feelings of fear and scarcity surrounding money and FI, and more! In this episode you’ll learn about: How Jessica and her partner saved mone...
Feb 21, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 362
Rose Mendonca, educator and financial enthusiast joins the Journey to Launch podcast to talk about her mission: helping all educators create wealth and the retirement of their dreams. Rose is a serial entrepreneur and founded Teacher Talks Money when she realized educators need more guidance, support, and literacy surrounding their finances and retirement options. Our conversation delves into topics such as Rose's decision to pay off her mortgage, the importance of optimizing earning potential e...
Feb 14, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 361
It’s my birthday! In my latest episode, I delve into post-book debut developments, the upcoming stages for my business, my commitment to self-care this year, and the significance of leading a life you can take pride in. Additionally, I provide step-by-step instructions on what actions I would take if I were just discovering Financial Independence. Don’t forget: you can celebrate my birthday with me by listening to this episode and reviewing my book, “ 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙅𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙏𝙤 𝙁𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞�...
Feb 07, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 360
This week on the Journey to Launch Podcast we’re featuring Israel and Sunem Tovar, two first-gen Latine siblings who empower people to use money to live their lives on their own terms. They discuss their financial journeys & achievements by sharing how Israel built a six-figure net worth by the age of 26 on a teacher salary and as a first-gen, openly gay latino, and how Sunem built a $250,000 investment portfolio and holds a Master's in finance. Despite attending prestigious institutions, Israel...
Jan 31, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 359
Maria Melchor , financial educator and creator of FirstGenLiving, joins the Journey To Launch Podcast to talk about her experience being the first in her family to build lasting wealth in America and how she built FirstGenLiving into the successful business it is today. We also talk about taking on student loan debt to avoid burdening parents with school expenses, “survivor’s guilt,” the fallacy of the “working harder will make you wealthier” narrative, and more. FirstGenLiving began in 2020 and...
Jan 24, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 358
Chris Hutchins, avid life hacker, financial optimizer and host of the top ranked podcast, “All the Hacks, ” joins the Journey To Launch podcast to discuss how he amassed 14 million credit card points and upgrades his life without spending a fortune. We also talk about the dangers of optimizing too much, intentionally spending and hacking your personal finances, analysis paralysis, and more. Before jumping into the content creation world, Chris was the Head of New Product Strategy at Wealthfront,...
Jan 17, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 357
