In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Academics and Their Money, we’re joined by Nicole Pulliam—tenured professor, certified coach, and unapologetic truth-teller—as she shares her unexpected journey through academia, the power of belief, and the real talk no one gives you about money in higher ed.

Nicole opens up about what it felt like to pursue a PhD she never imagined for herself, the joy and constraints of life as a professor, and why her gratitude for the academic world now comes with a healthy dose of skepticism. She discusses the “golden handcuffs” of tenure, the dismal financial rewards tied to academic promotions, and the quiet pressure many faculty feel to stay in roles that no longer serve them.

We also explore her entrepreneurial pivot into coaching—what led her there, how she built her business on the side, and why monetizing your skills outside of the academy isn't just possible, it's necessary. Nicole shares insights into supporting women and faculty of color navigating predominantly white institutions, and how building community and expanding out, not just up, has transformed her professional life.

Plus, we wrap with a fun money moment—what she’s most proud of spending money on (spoiler: it’s for her son), and her most regretful expense (yep, it involves DoorDash).

If you've ever felt stuck between gratitude and wanting more, this conversation will speak directly to you.

💼 Connect with Nicole Pulliam and learn more about her coaching work:
Website: www.realandworthyllc.com
Instagram: @realandworthyllc | @nicolepulliamphd
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolepulliamphd

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

In this episode of Academics and Their Money, Neeka Miremadi and Inga Timmerman interview Jasmine Cobb about her insights on navigating academia while managing finances. They discuss how early-career academics can set themselves up for financial success & personal happiness, with Jasmine sharing how she wished she'd maximized retirement contributions and stayed true to personal passions amidst the pressures of tenure. The conversation delves into the taboo surrounding money in academia, the importance of salary transparency, and the growing acceptance of side gigs for professors. Jasmine also shares how she teaches her kids to separate labor from money, helping them learn that their health and well-being are more important than a paycheck. This episode is packed with valuable advice for academics at all stages of their careers, offering fresh perspectives on balancing professional success, financial security, and personal fulfillment.

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

This episode of Academics and Their Money explores the intersection of money, culture, and academia through the experiences of Zeina Salame. Raised by immigrant parents with a strong emphasis on financial security, Zeina shares how cultural expectations shaped her career path and relationship with money. Despite earning a PhD in theater and securing a tenure-track position, she still grapples with financial anxiety, risk aversion, and the challenges of navigating academia’s limited compensation.

The discussion highlights key themes such as financial literacy gaps, the emotional weight of money decisions, the importance of mentorship, and the hidden financial resources available in academia. Zeina’s story offers a candid look at the struggles and strategies of making a passion-driven career financially sustainable.

Takeaways

·      Zeina's journey reflects the challenges faced by many in academia.

·      Financial literacy is often influenced by one's upbringing and background.

·      Fear and anxiety around finances can hinder decision-making.

·      Setting up separate accounts can help manage savings effectively.

·      Rejection can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth.

·      Understanding funding opportunities is crucial for academic success.

·      Mentorship can provide valuable insights into financial management.

·      Salary negotiation is often a daunting but necessary process.

·      Side hustles can supplement income and utilize existing skills.

·      Making informed purchasing decisions can lead to better financial health.

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

In this episode, Neeka Miremadi breaks down the complexities of taxes for professors, for those new to academia or continuing. She covers essential tax concepts, including how W-2 income differs from self-employment income, the importance of understanding calendar-year taxation, and how additional consulting or freelance work impacts tax obligations. Neeka also highlights common tax pitfalls, such as under-withholding for those with multiple income sources or married professors filing jointly. She provides actionable steps to help listeners assess their income sources from the previous year and prepare for tax season with clarity and confidence. While not offering tax advice, she emphasizes the importance of planning and seeking professional help when needed.

Takeaways

·      Taxes are complex but manageable with the right knowledge.

·      W-2 income does not allow for write-offs.

·      Keep track of additional income for accurate tax filing.

·      Consulting work may require estimated tax payments.

·      Married professors need to coordinate tax strategies.

·      Understanding your tax bracket is crucial for planning.

·      Use previous years' income to inform current tax strategies.

·      Seek professional help if tax situations become overwhelming.

·      Stay informed about IRS deadlines and requirements.

·      Financial clarity leads to better tax outcomes.

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

In this episode of Academics and Their Money, hosts Neeka Miremadi and Inga Timmerman interview Aline Silva, who shares her transition from academia to industry. Originally from Brazil, Aline entered academia after struggling to find a stable career during the 2008 financial crisis. She reflects on how her financial mindset evolved, noting the peace she found through smart decisions like contributing to a 401k. Aline also discusses leaving her PhD program in marketing, where she felt disconnected from her research interests, and how it ultimately aligned with her personal and family goals. She contrasts the realities of academia with her expectations and highlights the similarities between academia and industry, especially in navigating people and organizational dynamics. This episode offers insights into career transitions and aligning professional choices with personal values.

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

Episode Overview:
In this episode of Academics and Their Money, Inga Timmerman breaks down the financial and career considerations that academics should keep in mind when evaluating job offers. Whether it’s your first job or your fourth, making informed decisions can set you up for long-term financial success. Inga shares insights from years of experience negotiating with professors across the country, highlighting key factors that impact your financial well-being. 

Key Topics Covered:

✔ Long-Term Career Opportunities:

• Consider how a job will position you for future opportunities.
• Weigh short-term benefits against long-term career flexibility.

✔ Location Matters:

• Housing costs and state/local taxes significantly impact take-home pay.
• Tools like the SmartAsset Tax Calculator can help compare salaries across locations.

✔ Negotiation Strategies:

• The best time to negotiate is before accepting the job.
• Everything is negotiable – from salary and summer support to housing and research funds.

✔ Outside Employment Policies:

• Some institutions allow (or even expect) side work, while others have strict policies.
• If consulting or coaching is part of your career goals, research policies in advance.

✔ Evaluating Benefits:

• Retirement plans, pensions, and health insurance can vary widely.
• Factor in benefits when comparing job offers, not just salary figures.

✔ Housing Considerations:

• Should you buy or rent? It depends on your long-term plans and financial flexibility.
• Weigh potential resale value and rental opportunities before purchasing a home.

✔ Spousal and Family Considerations:

• If your partner also needs employment, consider job availability in your potential new location.
• Universities may hesitate to extend offers if relocation isn’t feasible for both partners.

✔ Daily Expenses & Lifestyle Creep:

• Moving is a great time to reassess spending habits.
• Small adjustments (like canceling unused subscriptions) can lead to significant savings.

✔ Public vs. Private Institutions:

• Private universities often pay more, but public institutions may offer better pensions and benefits.
• Consider which system aligns better with your financial and career goals.

✔ Retirement Planning & Phased Retirement:

• Some schools offer part-time or phased retirement options.
• Planning ahead can help ease the transition and maintain financial stability.

Homework Assignment:

💡 Review your expenses!

• Use an app like Monarch or simply review bank statements manually.
• Identify and cut at least one unnecessary expense this month.
• Small changes now can lead to better financial security down the line.

Resources Mentioned:

🔹 SmartAsset Tax Calculator – Compare take-home pay by location
🔹 Monarch Money – Personal finance tracking app

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

Financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about designing a career and life that bring you fulfillment. In this episode of Academics and Their Money, Inga Timmerman explores the key financial and career decisions academics face, from choosing the right location to navigating tenure. She breaks down how defining your financial needs can lead to greater happiness and career satisfaction. Along the way, she shares actionable insights on skill assessment, strategic planning, and the essential questions academics should ask when reevaluating their paths. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice to help you take control of your financial future and career trajectory. 

Takeaways

• Financial planning is essential for a fulfilling life.
• Location flexibility can significantly impact career choices.
• It's okay to reconsider the desire to remain in academia.
• Understanding your job desires is crucial for career decisions.
• Defining your financial needs is key to happiness.
• Identifying what you enjoy in your job can guide transitions.
• Skills outside of academia can provide alternative income sources.
• Establishing a 'happy number' helps in financial planning.
• Career satisfaction should be assessed regularly.
• Taking small steps can lead to significant career changes.

00:00
Introduction to Financial Planning for Academics

02:31
Navigating Life and Career Questions

06:02
Assessing Academic Career Aspirations

10:24
Understanding Financial Needs and Happiness

14:45
Homework: Defining Your Financial Numbers

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.

Welcome to Academics and Their Money, the podcast where we dive into the unique financial challenges and opportunities academics face. Whether it’s navigating salaries, investing, financial planning, or career decisions, we explore how money shapes life in academia. Join us as we bring you insightful conversations, expert advice, and real stories to help you make informed financial choices and build a more secure future. 

If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.

Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.