Budget Divas

Ep #77: Today, I want to dive into something that often gets overshadowed in our debt-free journeys—budgeting anxiety and income anxiety. Many believe that once you're debt-free, life becomes a breeze, all rainbows and sunshine. But the reality is, the worry about financial stability doesn't just vanish. Let's break down what budgeting anxiety and income anxiety really mean.

It's that uneasy feeling when you're juggling personal finances, stressed about expenses, fearing you won't meet financial goals, or overwhelmed by the complexity of budgeting. On the flip side, income anxiety is the stress tied to the amount and stability of your earnings. It could be the fear of job security, the unpredictability of gig work, or simply not earning enough to cover your essential expenses.

Even though my husband and I have been budgeting for ages, have our emergency fund, and all the financial foundations, the worry about tomorrow still lingers. And that's what I want to dig into today because stressing about financial stability, especially in this unpredictable world, is totally relatable.

We see people flaunting their fancy lifestyles, but behind those snapshots, we're clueless about their actual financial situation. So, how do we navigate this anxiety and still find happiness without constantly fearing the worst?

First things first, we need to acknowledge and understand these anxieties. You're not alone. Once you pinpoint the sources, you can tackle them head-on. Now, when I'm stressed about money, I don't immediately slash my budget. Instead, I make a list of things in my budget that genuinely make me happy—the "spark joy" list.

It's liberating because it helps me decide what stays and what goes without feeling deprived. And let me tell you, extreme frugality like turning underwear inside out or reusing cloth toilet paper isn't my style. So, no, I won't be doing that. Instead, I focus on practical strategies.

One key tip: make a "not right now" list. Sure, say no to some things, but if you keep saying no without a "not right now" list, you might end up stressed with nothing left that brings you joy.

Another crucial move is building your emergency fund. I'm a big fan of Ally Bank—great for setting up multiple buckets for different goals. Start small and gradually increase your emergency fund over time.

Now, let's tackle income anxiety and diversify. Having multiple sources of income brings security. It could be freelancing, a side hustle, or investments generating passive income. I often talk about mystery shopping, but it could be anything that fits your lifestyle.

Keep building your skills. Stay adaptable in this rapidly changing job market. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends enhance your employability, reducing income anxiety.

Lastly, seek support. Whether it's a financial advisor, a community like Budget Divas, or attending financial literacy workshops—having a support system makes a significant difference in managing budgeting and income anxiety.

Overcoming these anxieties is a journey. It's okay to seek help along the way. Until next time, keep moving forward, Budget Di

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #76: In this episode of the "Budget Divas" podcast, our guest is Shari Collins of Glasssibling.com. Shari shares her inspiring journey of resilience and transformation. Shari's story begins with the adoption of her two brothers from Sierra Leone, Africa, which turned into a traumatic and chaotic experience due to their severe behavioral issues. The situation reached a breaking point when one of her adopted brothers set their house on fire, leading to significant emotional trauma. Shari opens up about the challenges she faced, including mistrust of adults, church hurt, and coping through books.

Despite the adversity she faced, Shari describes a pivotal moment in her life when she confronted her anger and questions about God's goodness. She made a conscious decision to trust God and release her anger and resentment. This turning point led her on a path to healing, forgiveness, and building a more positive mindset.

The podcast delves into Shari's financial journey as well, highlighting her shift from a scarcity mindset to a more empowering perspective on money. She discusses her experience with mystery shopping and how it allows her to enjoy life without compromising her social life or overspending. Shari emphasizes the importance of controlling money rather than allowing it to control you, ultimately creating financial freedom.

Shari discusses their shared love for books and how changing their money mindset has allowed them to prioritize spending on things that bring them joy. Shari talks about her company, Glass Sibling, and her mission to support and empower "glass children" – siblings of special needs individuals – by helping them find their identity, self-worth, and community.

Listeners can connect with Shari and learn more about her work on the https://www.glasssibling.com, as well as through Facebook and Instagram.

The episode highlights the significance of mindset and resilience in overcoming adversity, finding financial freedom, and building supportive communities. Shari's story serves as an inspiring example of how transformation and healing are possible when we make intentional choices to change our perspective and actions.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #75: In this episode of the Budget Divas podcast, you will hear my journey into the world of mystery shopping and provide three essential tips for those wanting to embark on this exciting adventure. These tips can be applied before you even register for your first mystery shop. 

1. **Practice Writing Reviews:** Start by honing your storytelling skills by reviewing places on platforms like Yelp and Google. This practice will help you create detailed and compelling reports in the future.

2. **Talk Less, Listen More:** When mystery shopping, it's crucial to ask the right questions and then actively listen to the employees. They should lead the conversation, helping you evaluate their customer service skills effectively.

3. **Start with Inquiry Shops:** To build confidence without risking your money, begin with inquiry shops. These shops don't require purchases but serve as an excellent foundation for your mystery shopping journey.

Remember that while the initial challenges may seem overwhelming, commitment and practice will lead to proficiency in mystery shopping. This journey can transform your life, helping you pay off debts, dine in top restaurants, and enjoy experiences while getting paid. 

For those who want to delve deeper into the world of mystery shopping and budgeting, I invite you to attend my live training sessions, where you can learn how to reach your financial goals faster and enjoy the process. 

So, get ready to embark on this exciting journey and make it work for you.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #74: Recently, I had an unexpected adventure in Colorado that I can't wait to share with you. But more importantly, I want to explain why I'm so passionate about budgeting and helping you become debt-free.

So, let me start with our impromptu trip to Colorado. It wasn't planned at all. One day, my friend Cindy called and said she was going to Colorado with our friend Christine. Cindy's dream was to learn RVing. I shared that goal of traveling the country in an RV and enjoying every moment.

I had a long to-do list, and the practical side of my brain said, "No, Jen, you can't go. Focus on your tasks and plan a better trip next time." But my other side said, "This is an opportunity to get away." A few weeks earlier, I'd received some shocking news that left me rattled. Life and business have their ups and downs, and as they say, life is 50/50 – half good and half bad. When life throws challenges your way, you sometimes just need to get away.

After discussing it with my husband, he encouraged me to take the trip. He reminded me to step out of my daily routine, meet people I'd only known virtually, and be present with them. We went on daily hikes, had outdoor barbecues, and stayed in a beautiful RV surrounded by breathtaking Colorado mountains.

The core message of this episode is why I'm so passionate about budgeting and helping you become debt-free. When you have money in the bank and a financial plan, you can embrace spontaneous opportunities like this trip without worrying about credit card limits or debt.

Here are some tips to get you started on your own debt-free journey:

1. **Create a Budget and Debt Payoff Plan:** I know, creating a budget doesn't sound exciting, but when you put everything down on paper, you'll feel energized. No more mental clutter; you'll have a clear plan. Even if your debt seems overwhelming, at least you'll know how to tackle it and potentially increase your income.

2. **Build a Savings Fund:** I love using Ally Bank for this. They let you create multiple savings buckets, each with its own goal. For instance, you can have a Christmas fund, a vacation fund, or a clothing fund. This way, you won't have to rely on credit cards when unexpected expenses pop up.

3. **Explore Side Gigs:** Find a side gig that aligns with your interests and passions. For me, mystery shopping was a game-changer. It not only accelerated our debt-free journey but also enhanced our lives. With the extra income, we could enjoy life's little pleasures and make memories without breaking the bank.

The message is clear: financial freedom and debt reduction don't mean you have to sacrifice all your joys in life. With a budget, a savings fund, and a side gig, you can live your life to the fullest, embrace unexpected adventures, and confidently make choices that align with your dreams and financial goals.

Whether it's a spontaneous trip to Colorado or another opportunity that comes your way, remember that financial planning gives you the freedom to say "yes" without hesitation. Join me on this journey towards financial freedom, and let's make 2023 a year of extraordinary financial choice

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #73: In my 20s, managing money wisely is crucial for securing a stable financial future. Here are five things I would do with my money during this pivotal decade:

Build an Emergency Fund: Prioritize creating an emergency fund.

Invest in Self-Improvement: Invest in myself through education and skill development. This could include taking courses, attending workshops, or gaining certifications that can lead to higher earning potential in the future.

Budget and Save for Goals: Create a budget to track my spending and ensure I'm saving for both short-term and long-term goals.

Impulse Spending: FOMO can lead to impulse spending on things like expensive trips, gadgets, or experiences that you can't afford. This can quickly deplete your savings and put you in financial stress.

Travel and Experience: Your 20s are a time to explore, learn, and create memories. While being financially responsible is essential, don't forget to allocate some money to travel and experience the world.


Overall, the key in your 20s is to strike a balance between enjoying the present and preparing for the future. By building a strong financial foundation through saving, investing, and responsible debt management, you can set yourself up for a secure and prosperous financial future.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #72: What is the #1 fastest way to get out of debt? Consistency. 

This episode emphasizes the importance of discipline in budgeting habits for achieving financial success. The key takeaways from the transcript are as follows:

1. Consistency is Key: The host stresses the significance of maintaining consistency in budgeting efforts. Successful individuals consistently attend meetings, follow through on tasks, and don't give up even when life throws challenges their way.
2. Flexibility in Budgeting: The host advocates for flexibility in budgeting. Life circumstances change, and it's important to adjust your budget accordingly. For example, the grocery budget can vary from month to month based on factors like seasonal changes and holiday gatherings.
3. Developing Discipline: Consistency helps develop the discipline needed for long-term financial success. It's crucial to establish a routine for monitoring bank accounts and budgets, even if it's not done daily.
4. Motivation through 'Why': The host suggests that individuals should connect with their "why" – the reasons they want to achieve financial goals. Sometimes, simple motivations like better sleep, improved lifestyle choices, or avoiding financial stress can keep people motivated and consistent.
5. Small Wins Matter: Celebrating small financial victories is essential. Even seemingly minor financial achievements, like canceling a subscription or earning a small extra income, contribute to long-term success.

Here are three takeaways you can start doing today: 

1. Set Clear Financial Goals: Establish specific, attainable financial goals for the short term (e.g., the next week or month) to stay motivated.
2. Create a Realistic Budget: Craft a budget that covers expenses, allows for savings, and provides a buffer for unexpected expenses. Evaluate spending habits and consider increasing income through methods like mystery shopping.
3. Regularly Review and Adjust: Make budgeting a routine task, set aside time for regular reviews, and be flexible to adjust the budget as circumstances change.

Practicing delayed gratification and discipline is essential for long-term financial success and suggests that it leads to more fulfilling and financially secure lives.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #71: What if it was true, that you could have your cake and eat it too? What would it mean for you to enjoy the finer things in life WHILE still paying off debt?

In this episode, you'll hear my personal journey of rediscovery, financial empowerment, and a unique approach to overcoming debt while living your dreams. My own story of how mystery shopping became the catalyst for transformation, even in the midst of debt.

We are all familiar with the struggle of balancing the demands of everyday life while grappling with a mountain of student loans and credit card debt. Despite passion for dining out, traveling, and spending quality time with loved ones, debt seemed insurmountable. Options for indulging in the things I loved were limited, leading me to extreme frugality and unconventional money-saving methods.

But then, a chance conversation with a colleague introduced me to the world of mystery shopping. It was a revelation - the opportunity to enjoy her favorite activities without the crippling cost. Through mystery shopping, I began to dine at high-end restaurants and experience luxurious outings, all while getting reimbursed for expenses. Even more thrilling, I could bring her husband and son along on these adventures.

In this episode, you'll hear the true power of mystery shopping to manage your finances better. With the additional income from mystery shopping, she could tackle her debts systematically. By creating a detailed budget, it allowed me to enjoy life while also making significant strides toward debt freedom. Through patience and discipline, I resisted overspending, making mindful choices that aligned with her financial goals.

As a result, my debt began to shrink, and financial freedom became a reality. In just one year, our family paid off a remarkable $41,000 of debt, all while enjoying the experiences we cherished. Mystery shopping not only provided financial relief but also opened doors to new adventures and introduced her to incredible people in the industry.

If you're eager to learn more about accelerating your debt payoff journey while enjoying the things you love, I'd love to invited you to a free training session at www.budgetdivas.com/faster, providing invaluable insights and strategies for financial freedom without sacrificing your lifestyle.

So, remember, it's never too late to rewrite your financial narrative and turn your dreams into reality.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep: #70: In this episode, we welcome communication and conflict resolution coach Vince Abramo. She is a brain health trainer working closely with Dr. Amen. Vince emphasizes a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on the complete picture of an individual, including diet, environment, and social interactions. Her approach extends to working with teams and organizations, emphasizing improved teamwork and interactions for enhanced performance.

As we navigate our busy lives, Vince sheds light on managing negative thoughts, which can be triggered by various factors. She stresses the importance of recognizing that there's no universal "normal" and encourages embracing individual uniqueness. Negative thoughts often stem from past experiences or external influences, and Vince offers guidance on challenging and replacing these automatic negative thoughts, a process that can benefit from professional help.

In the context of hectic routines, such as returning to school and work, Vince provides valuable insights on managing mental energy effectively: 

1. Setting boundaries and time limits, especially for activities like excessive screen time or social media, can prevent mental exhaustion. 

2. Finding sources of joy, laughter, and beauty in life is essential, as they boost serotonin and dopamine levels, promoting mental well-being. 

3. The importance of avoiding significant decisions when fatigued and maintaining proper sleep patterns for optimal brain health.

To learn more about brain health, listeners can take a free assessment test at brainhealthassessment.com. For information on Vince's services and workshops, visit her at https://www.bambooshoot.co/. 

This episode encourages prioritizing mental well-being and provides practical tips for maintaining a healthy brain. 

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep #69: In this podcast episode, we discuss the exciting world of mystery shopping and how it can be a rewarding opportunity for various individuals, including moms, dads, and military spouses. We highlight the financial benefits of mystery shopping, from saving money on everyday expenses to earning extra income. Listen in as Nadia shares personal experiences and tips to make the most of mystery shopping, including:

1. Overcoming Fear of the Unknown: Don't be afraid of trying mystery shopping. The task is easy if you're observant and can write clearly. It's an opportunity that can fit a wide range of people.
2. Starting Small and Local: Start with mystery shops close to your home to minimize expenses and make it convenient. Trying out shops nearby is a great way to get started without overcommitting.
3. Focus on Similar Types of Shops: Choose a certain type of shop and do multiple of the same kind on the same day. This helps streamline the process as you become familiar with the requirements, making reporting more efficient.

Mystery shopping can have a positive impact beyond personal gain. Nadia shares stories of how she's used her mystery shopping experiences to give back to her community by providing food to those in need and surprising hardworking individuals with gifts. 

Hear Nadia's advice to use mystery shopping as a flexible and rewarding side hustle. This episode highlights the practicality of mystery shopping and its potential to contribute to financial goals while making a positive impact on others' lives.

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.

Ep: #68 Picture this: A world where your dreams of homeownership are no longer distant aspirations, where the car you've always wanted becomes an achievable reality, where unexpected financial emergencies don't send you into a spiral. This world is within reach, and it starts with understanding and improving your credit. 

In this episode of the Budget Divas podcast, Rhonda Alexander Monkres, the credit coach and owner of Kūpa'a Consulting Services, discusses the important topic of credit. Rhonda shares valuable insights and tips on maintaining, establishing, and improving credit scores.

Rhonda introduces herself as a credit coach based in Maui, with a mission to help Hawai'i residents improve their credit scores and achieve their financial goals. She compares credit scores to adult report cards, ranging from 350 to 850, reflecting creditworthiness. Responsible credit use, keeping balances under control, making payments on time, and managing inquiries are essential practices for demonstrating creditworthiness.

Rhonda emphasizes the significance of credit monitoring and explains the difference between FICO and Vantage credit scores. Monitoring credit helps detect unauthorized accounts due to identity theft, and Rhonda provides guidance on reporting and protecting against identity theft.

Rhonda illustrates the substantial difference in interest rates for someone with a 500 credit score compared to someone with a 750-800 credit score when applying for loans, such as car loans and home loans. Rhonda offers actionable steps to improve credit, including maintaining low credit card balances, making timely payments, avoiding unnecessary credit inquiries, and becoming an authorized user on an account with excellent payment history.

Rhonda's expertise sheds light on the crucial role of credit in financial stability and the steps individuals can take to manage their credit effectively. 

To learn more about Rhonda and get a free credit review, visit her website at https://kupaaconsulting.com/. 

You're Invited to a free LIVE training: How To Get Out of Debt Faster With Mystery Shopping. Register here: https://www.budgetdivas.com/faster

Mystery shopping? What's that got to do with my finances? Mystery shopping isn't just about scoring free meals or testing out luxury cars; it's a powerful tool that can turbocharge your journey to financial independence! Imagine paying off your student loans, credit card debt, or that pesky mortgage years ahead of schedule! Head over to www.budgetdivas.com/faster and secure your spot. Seats are limited, and you won't want to miss out on this life-changing event. It's time to take control of your financial future and unlock the potential within you.