Beyond Budgets Podcast

In this deeply personal and vulnerable episode, Deb shares a major announcement: Beyond Budgets® is going on pause. After two and a half years of hosting this podcast, she steps back to focus on an unexpected and challenging health journey. But this isn't just a goodbye; it's a powerful reflection on what happens when even the best-laid plans fall apart.

Episode Highlights

• (00:00) Podcast Put on Pause

• (00:35) Life Plans vs. Reality

• (06:4)] Faith, Suffering, and Hope

• (20:10) Hold Goals Loosely

• (31:30) Recenter on Family, Faith, and Values

💡 What This Episode Covers 1. A Pause, Not a Full Stop

Deb explains her decision to step away from the podcast (for now) while navigating ongoing medical uncertainty. She reflects on the impact the show has had and where listeners might still find her voice in the future.

2. When Planning Meets Reality

A lifelong planner, Deb wrestles with the uncomfortable truth: even the most disciplined plans cannot prevent life's curveballs. This episode reframes planning as something flexible, not rigid.

3. Living in Uncertainty

With no clear diagnosis yet, Deb shares what it's like to live in the "in-between"—where answers are delayed, and fear can creep in.

4. Five Lessons for Navigating Life's Unexpected Turns

• Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

• Cling to Hope (Even When It's Hard)

• Hold Plans Loosely

• Break Out of Routine

• Refocus on What Matters Most

5. Financial Life Planning

Deb shares real client examples showing how financial plans must evolve with life changes, especially during health crises or major transitions.

❤️ Key Takeaways

• Life won't always follow your plan, and that's not failure.

• Financial plans should be living, breathing guides rather than rigid scripts.

• Uncertainty can be a powerful teacher of priorities.

📌 Resources & Next Steps

• Revisit past episodes, especially:

• Episode 2: Shaping Your Family's Future with Core Values

• Episode 18: Turning Dreams into Reality with Values-Based Financial Planning

• Follow the podcast so you're notified if and when it returns

• Watch for potential future content on the Catholic Money Mastermind podcast

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping Catholic parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

What if raising financially responsible kids isn't about teaching them to save more but rather helping them understand what actually matters?

In this episode, Catholic financial planner and host Deb Meyer sits down with David Delisle, creator of The Awesome Stuff™, to explore how our relationship with money is shaped early. Learn how parents can guide their kids toward more intentional choices without constant conflict.

David shares a simple yet transformational question that can shift how your family approaches money:

👉 "Is this my awesome stuff?"

This conversation blends mindset and practical parenting strategies to help you raise kids who spend, save, and give with purpose.

Episode Highlights

• (01:46) Why "more money" doesn't solve the real problem

• (05:00) The issue with labeling kids as savers or spenders

• (08:40) Teaching money through everyday moments

• (​​10:20) A simple question that changes everything

• (16:30) Letting natural consequences do the teaching

Q&A: Parenting and Money Made Practical

1. When should I start teaching my kids about money? As soon as they start asking you to buy them something. At that point, they're ready to begin learning about choices and trade-offs. This is the case even if they don't understand dollar amounts yet.

1. How do I teach money without overwhelming my kids? Keep it simple and conversational. Use relatable comparisons (like toys or treats) and focus on helping them make smart choices instead of memorizing numbers.

1. What's the best way to handle it when kids constantly ask for things? Instead of saying yes or no, ask: "Is that your awesome stuff?" This shifts the decision back to your child and reduces power struggles.

1. How do I balance letting kids choose while still teaching responsibility? Set spending boundaries, but allow freedom within those limits. Let natural consequences teach lessons when possible.

1. What if my kids have very different money habits? That's normal. Avoid labeling a child naturally inclined to spend as "better" than one who typically saves money (and vice versa). Focus on helping each child understand what truly matters to him or her.

Connect with guest David Delisle, Creator of The Awesome Stuff™

Website | Financial Literacy Resources | Instagram

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP® Founder of WorthyNest®, helping Catholic parents build financial plans that reflect their values. Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

What's the right way to pass wealth to the next generation? How much inheritance is too much?

We explore the deeper questions behind inheritance planning in this Beyond Budgets® episode … questions about stewardship, generosity, and financial responsibility. You'll learn how to balance financial legacy with personal growth and create an inheritance plan that aligns with your family's values.

Net worth is only one part of the equation, and money amplifies character (or lack thereof). Inheritance can lead to overspending, entitlement, and a lack of direction without proper guidance. Smart estate planning includes trustees who guide beneficiaries and flexibility for real-life needs.

Listen to this episode if you're a parent who wants to define your family's version of "enough" and the related episode 12, Mastering Estate Planning.

Episode Highlights

• [0:00:00] – The dangers of comparison, greed, and lifestyle inflation

• [0:04:46] – How to determine "how much is enough" vs. "too much" inheritance

• [0:17:26] – How to use Roth IRA matching to build good money habits in children

• [0:20:00] – How donor-advised funds can create a family culture of giving

• [0:27:56] – Pros and cons of liquid vs. illiquid assets like real estate and family businesses

Q&A

1. What is considered too much inheritance?

There is no fixed dollar amount that defines "too much" inheritance. It becomes excessive when it reduces a beneficiary's motivation or ability to develop financial independence. The focus should be on preparing heirs, not just funding them.

1. How can parents prevent inheritance from creating entitlement?

Parents can prevent entitlement by:

• Teaching financial literacy early

• Encouraging saving and investing habits

• Modeling generosity and stewardship

3. Are liquid assets or real estate better for inheritance?

Both have value. Liquid assets provide flexibility and immediate access, while real estate and business assets can build long-term wealth. A balanced mix is typically the best strategy.

4. Should parents prioritize giving or leaving an inheritance?

Both can coexist. Generosity during life can teach values, while a thoughtfully structured inheritance can support future generations without creating dependency.

In this special Podcasthon 2026 episode, host and Catholic financial planner Deb Meyer sits down with Deborah Johns, Chief Growth Officer of Unbound, to explore a radically different approach to poverty relief. It's one that puts decision-making directly into the hands of families.

From direct cash transfers to child and elder sponsorship, you'll hear how small, consistent support can transform not just one life but entire communities.

🔍 Why This Episode Matters for Parents

As parents managing your household budget, this conversation reframes giving:

• It's not about how much you give

• Intentional, consistent impact matters more

• Model generosity and global awareness for your kids

Consider this a way to build your "family impact plan" alongside your financial plan.

Episode Highlights

• (01:14) What makes Unbound's self-directed model different from traditional charities

• (05:27) How direct cash transfers empower families to solve their most urgent needs

• (09:11) Why supporting mothers creates ripple effects for years to come

• (11:43)The often-overlooked need for elder sponsorship and social connection

• (16:05)How education, especially for girls, breaks generational poverty cycles

🌍 What Is Unbound?

Unbound is an international nonprofit working in 16 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Each year, they provide over $100 million in direct support to children, elders, and families living in poverty.

Their mission is simple but powerful: 👉 Put choice, dignity, and decision-making back into the hands of those experiencing poverty.

Unbound stands out for stewardship:

• 90%+ of funds go directly to programs

• Top ratings from charity evaluators like Charity Navigator

• Full transparency with publicly available financials

Visit: unbound.org to sponsor a child or elder

Grief can reshape your parenting, relationships, and decision-making. In Episode 59 of the Beyond Budgets® podcast, host and Catholic financial planner Deb Meyer talks with hospice nurse and Catholic grief coach Nichole Haugen about what healthy grieving looks like for parents, how surrender can support healing, and why it's wise to pause major financial decisions during seasons of profound loss.

This episode is for parents navigating any kind of grief: the death of a loved one, sudden loss, divorce, addiction in the family, or the grief that comes from life not turning out the way you expected.

You'll learn:

• (03:49) What "healthy grieving" looks like (and what it can look like when you're stuck)

• (07:14) A simple first step when you know you're not coping well

• (16:54) How to parent through grief while still caring for your nervous system

• (27:38) Why big financial moves can backfire during intense grief

• (29:07) How faith, surrender, and trust can help you release what you can't control

This conversation offers both practical grounding and genuine hope if you're trying to keep life moving for your kids while you're hurting inside.

✨ Don't forget to leave a rating or review if this episode helped you!

And please note our schedule change for March 2026: only one episode will be published on Thursday, 3/19/26, for Podcasthon. The following solo episode will air on Thursday, 4/2/26.

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

Tax season doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially when you're armed with expert tips and a solid system. In episode 58 of the Beyond Budgets® Podcast, host Deb Meyer breaks down what parents need to know about getting organized for tax season. From estimated taxes to state-specific credits, this episode is packed with practical strategies to reduce your stress and increase your confidence before the April 15th deadline.

You'll walk away with actionable steps to get your paperwork in order and avoid costly mistakes … whether you're a W-2 earner, small business owner, or self-preparer using TurboTax. We also debunk common myths (like what extensions really mean) and highlight when it's time to call in a tax professional like an Enrolled Agent or Certified Public Accountant.

📝 Episode Highlights

• (0:35) Extensions ≠ Extra Time to Pay – Understand the April 15th deadline, even if you file late

• (2:45) Estimated Tax Basics – Avoid underpayment penalties using IRS "safe harbor" rules

• ( 06:40 ) When to Hire Help – Consider a tax pro if you've moved, inherited assets, or run a business.

• ( 09:30 ) How to Organize Documents – Stay tax-ready throughout the year

• ( 15:08 ) OBBBA Deductions – Why 2025 could be the first year you itemize in a while.

✨ Don't forget to leave a review if this episode helped you! It makes a big difference and allows more parents to get the support they need to build wealth wisely.

🔗 Listen to Episode 48 New Tax Breaks for Parents: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Your Family

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

Bestselling author and branding strategist Mike Kim joins Deb Meyer to share how personal branding isn't just for entrepreneurs. Mike offers real-life tools to help you show up with more clarity & confidence, whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or building something of your own.

Mike also opens up about a recent season of reinvention, sparked by personal loss. He shares how to navigate big transitions, what it means to do work of material consequence, and why slowing down might be your next best move.

Plus, they dive into the evolving role of AI: how it's shaping both our careers and our kids' futures. This is a powerful conversation for any parent looking to lead with intention.

🎧 Highlights

• [0:02:20] Mike's Three Ps Framework

• [0:06:45] How to reinvent without blowing up your life

• [0:07:39] What it means to do work of material consequence

• [0:12:04] The power of "wintering" in a go-go-go culture

• [0:15:01] Intrapreneurship: How to lead and innovate inside a corporate job

• [0:23:10] Personal branding for traditional employees, especially on LinkedIn

• [0:27:30] Wisely using AI in your professional life and parenting

📚 Resources Mentioned

• You Are the Brand by Mike Kim

• Own Your Career, Own Your Life by Andy Storch & Mike Kim (plus free workbook downloads)

• Mike's newsletter: mikekim.com/newsletter

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

In this candid episode of Beyond Budgets®, host Deb Meyer shares her perspective as both a financial planner and a mom of a high school junior navigating the complex world of college prep. You'll hear:

• [0:00:03] Behind-the-scenes insights from Florida college tours (University of Florida, Florida State University, and UCF)

• [0:04:50] Key admissions guidance from a local high school teacher, including the real impact of essays and extracurriculars

• [0:07:15] Early Action vs. Early Decision – what they mean and why deadlines matter

• [0:08:30] Ivy League book shoutout: Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be by Frank Bruni

• [0:11:20] Affordability vs. Prestige – how to help your teen build a balanced college list

• [0:18:00] AICE, AP, IB, and Dual Enrollment – comparing academic pathways in high school

• [0:19:00] Florida Bright Futures Scholarships – eligibility, requirements, and cost savings

Whether your child is in middle school or already a junior or senior, Deb breaks down what to prioritize, how to keep expectations in check, and how to prepare without sacrificing your retirement or overwhelming your teen.

Related Episodes:

• Episode 5: Understanding College Financial Aid with Joe Messinger

• Episode 33: College Funding Secrets Every Parent Needs to Know with Ann Garcia

• Episode 55: How Dual Enrollment Saved This Family $60K in College Costs with Shelly Branine

📤 Share This Episode:

Know a fellow parent navigating college prep? Forward this episode! Sharing Deb's real-world insights could be the spark another family needs to start their own college conversations.

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

"My daughters went to prom, played sports, were in student council, and still finished college before high school ended." – Shelley Branine

Wondering how your family can save tens of thousands of dollars? Then you don't want to miss this special episode with Shelley Branine, mom of two and author of the upcoming book Finish College in High School.

Shelley shares her family's incredible journey using dual enrollment to help both her daughters graduate college debt-free. Listen in if you have a middle school or high school student and are feeling overwhelmed by rising college tuition rates. Shelley offers hard-won wisdom, sharing alternatives to the traditional 4-year college path.

Episode Highlights

• (03:46) Why her "average" kids thrived (and why yours might, too)

• (06:10) What dual enrollment is, and how it differs from AP and IB programs

• (12:10) Common myths about scholarships and why they're so competitive

• (16:05) How to explore dual enrollment options in your state, even for private school students or those with learning differences

• (20:23) The real risks of student loans and why Shelley's family avoided them

Connect with Guest Shelley Branine

Website | Instagram | Shelley's Book, Finish College in High School

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

"Small, incremental steps will always get you further than a giant leap, especially when they're rooted in your values." – Deb Meyer

As we turn the page into a new year, goal setting becomes more than just a buzzword. It's a tool for transformation. In Episode 54, host Deb Meyer dives deep into how parents can set intentional goals that actually stick.

Learn why small, sustainable habits beat massive overhauls, how to identify and overcome limiting beliefs, and how to create SMART goals that align with your family's core values. Whether you're aiming to save more, invest wisely, or improve your health, this episode provides a simple roadmap to start strong in 2026. Get practical steps, faith-filled encouragement, and real-life strategies to help you lead your family with clarity and purpose in the year ahead.

Episode Highlights

• [0:00:37] Deb's personal journey: Weight gain, body image, and making a change

• [0:07:30] Applying those same goal-setting principles to saving money

• [0:11:00] Should you work with a financial planner or coach?

• [0:15:30] A unique goal-setting exercise: writing your future self a letter

• [0:20:00]How to handle setbacks, redefine your "why," and pivot your plan

Resources

• Books: Finish by Jon Acuff and Your Best Year Ever by Michael Hyatt

• Nourish App: https://www.usenourish.com – Dietitian support app

• XY Planning Network for fee-only, fiduciary CFP® professionals

• NAPFA (National Association of Personal Financial Advisors): https://www.napfa.org

• Compass Catholic Financial Coaching: https://compasscatholic.org

Want Personal Help?

If you're looking for a faith-aligned, fiduciary financial planner for your family, Deb has availability in the new year. Click here to book a free, initial consultation.

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz