In this episode of Backwoods Money, we cover two big topics.

First, we talk about the ongoing US government shutdown that is now entering its third week. We talk about what the possibility of SNAP funds running out, federal workers going without paychecks, and the importance of having emergency funds to cover things that come up like this.

Then we answer a listener question about retirement accounts: should you prioritize a Roth IRA or take advantage of your employer’s 401(k) match? We walk through the pros and cons of each, explain the “match beats Roth” rule, and share practical tips for getting started - even if you’re using platforms like Robinhood.

Dalton also briefly shares his thoughts on how Robinhood may have mixed reviews and has had its fair share of issues, but how they have played a pivotal role in making investing simpler and more accessible to everyday people through brokerage commissions, order minimums, and fractional shares.

Listen now and download our free one-page budget template at BackwoodsMoney.com/budget

In this episode, Dalton talks about his reflections from the hospital room as he prepared for his son to enter the world. The questions going through a new parent's head will be different, but we all have the same goal - to give our children a better life than we had.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Breaking the silence on money and debt.
• Many families passing down financial confusion instead of financial wisdom.
• Teaching kids about Roth IRAs, compound interest, and to have dignity with their finances. If we don't, society will teach them how to live paycheck to paycheck, how to finance things they can't afford, and how to try to impress people at a stop light that they will never meet.
• The importance of what you leave when you pass away (because statistically that happens) - you can leave generational wealth, or you can leave stress.

Whether you're a young person just starting out or someone who's kids are grown, it's not too late to take actions that will benefit your family tree in the future.

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe, like, or share with someone close to you - because the next generation deserves better, and silence on the issues doesn't fix it.

In this episode, we talk about the real risks of co-signing loans. It is not the act of support that people thing it is. It enables poor financial decisions, and puts your own financial peace at risk.

If you’ve ever felt pressured to “just help out” by signing your name, this conversation is for you.

Remember, this isn’t just about money. This is also about boundaries, accountability, and protecting your future. You can love someone and support them without enabling them or putting your own financial stability at stake.

If you have a loved one who is struggling with debt, spending, or saving money, one of the best first steps is to identify that there is an issue. One of the best ways for them to do that is to see a basic budget written out in front of them - income vs expenses. Many people are surprised at how much money they actually have going out.

Download our FREE one-page budget template at https://backwoodsmoney.com/free-budget-template/

We want to start by saying that this show is not a political show, and we don’t intend for it to be. Backwoods Money is a show built to talk about personal finances and issues impacting everyday people, but that also comes with the occasional discussion about moral clarity and stewardship in other areas of life. This includes the impact of our actions on those around us and the impact that our actions have on our future.

This weeks episode is a little heavier than normal. We confront the online reaction to Charlie Kirk's death. This includes the real-world consequences that followed for those who have mocked this senseless act of violence. From professors to healthcare workers, people are being fired for celebrating this violence online. This isn't cancel culture, but rather accountability.

We talk about how digital platforms have dehumanized us, how freedom of speech is misunderstood, and why your words (online or offline) still carry weight. As Mike Tyson once said, "social media made you all too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the fact for it." If you cheered for death, don't be surprised if your employer, your community, or those in your circle walk away.

This episode is a call to character, regardless of your political affiliations or beliefs. Because if we want a world where disagreement doesn't mean destruction, we have to foster disagreement as mature and responsible adults.

And to everyone who's devastated by this moment, who feels the weight of another American silenced for voicing their beliefs as both sides of the aisle have seen over the years, you're not alone.

Stay grounded. Stay clear. Stay human.

In this episode of Backwoods Money, Dalton breaks down the hard truth behind chasing dreams without a plan. With unemployment rising, credit card debt hitting $1.21 trillion, and auto loan delinquencies at a 13-year high, financial peace isn’t about passion. It’s about priorities.

Topics covered include:• The latest personal finance news and what it means for everyday households• Why debt isn’t a shortcut and how it keeps people stuck• The myth of “follow your passion” and how to build smart side hustles• How to treat your income like a tool, not a verdict• Why budgeting still matters even if you’re tired of hearing it• The curveballs life throws and how to prepare for them• The four kinds of asses holding people back• A challenge to take one real step this week toward financial peace

If you’re tired of dreaming and ready to start doing, this episode is your wake-up call.

Do you have a question or idea that you'd like to hear in a future episode? Let us know at www.BackwoodsMoney.com, or reach out to us on Twitter at @Backwoods_Money

Tipping culture in the U.S. has gotten out of hand. From coffee shops to self-checkout kiosks, it feels like every transaction comes with a screen asking for a tip. In this episode of Backwoods Money, Dalton breaks down when tipping is appropriate, when it’s not, and how it impacts your personal budget.

We also cover quick updates from the personal finance world and how everyday decisions—like tipping—can quietly drain your wallet if you're not paying attention.

Whether you're trying to save money, stick to a budget, or just avoid awkward checkout moments, this episode will help you think twice before hitting that 20% button

Check out our FREE one-page budget template at https://backwoodsmoney.com/free-budget-template

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Have a question or idea that you'd like to hear in a future episode? Reach out to us at www.BackwoodsMoney.com or reach out to us on Twitter at @Backwoods_Money

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Disclaimer: This show is not personal financial advice. We discuss general financial principles, we do not provide direct financial or investment advice.

Budgeting should not be difficult. Get started with our FREE one page budget template at https://backwoodsmoney.com/free-budget-template/

During this episode, I talk about my first job out of high school, and the fact that my money disappeared. Not to bills, not to investment accounts, but rather to nice clothes, name brand groceries, and eating out.

Side note: we are not against name-brand ketchup, and we won't judge you if that is part of your budget. The key thing is making (AND STICKING TO) a budget. The best way to be intentional with your money is by knowing where it's going.

In this episode, we also look at the story of Noah. He did something that wasn't "normal" by building the ark, even if those around him didn't. Sadly, having a simple written budget is not "normal" in today's society.

As always, we thank you for taking the time to listen. You can find text posts from this episode and others on our website. If you have a topic that you'd like to hear as an episode, please reach out to us! A form is available on our website to submit your questions or topic ideas.

In this episode, Dalton shares how remote work can be a game-changer for rural Americans who struggle to find mid-to-high income jobs locally. After nearly a decade in public safety and long commutes, he discovered remote opportunities that brought financial breathing room, reduced stress, and opened doors for growth.

We cover:• How working from home can help rural families increase income and cut commuting costs• Common remote work scams to avoid, including MLMs and fake job postings• Why real remote jobs never require starter kits or recruiting others• Tips for finding legitimate work-from-home jobs and avoiding pyramid schemes• The importance of researching companies and applying directly on employer websites

If you're living in a small town, tired of long drives, and looking for real ways to earn more without uprooting your life, this episode is for you.

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Have a question or idea that you'd like to hear in a future episode? Reach out to us at ⁠www.BackwoodsMoney.com⁠ or reach out to us on Twitter at ⁠@Backwoods_Money⁠

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Disclaimer: This show is not personal financial advice. We discuss general financial principles, we do not provide direct financial or investment advice.

Disclaimer: This show is not personal financial advice. We discuss general financial principles, we do not provide direct financial or investment advice.

In this episode, the generational curse of financial illiteracy is discussed. The new "normal" of new cars, bigger houses, and the latest and greatest phones is borrowing from our future self for what feels good at the moment.

It's never too late to break that curse and take control of your finances. The earlier the better.

This episode also has a biblical reference to Joseph in the book of Genesis, and how his solution for Egypt serves as a blueprint to financial stewardship (saving during the days of abundance for when the days of famine).

Do you have a topic you'd like to see discussed in an episode or in a blog post? Please let us know at www.BackwoodsMoney.com