In this episode, Emma Claire and Carissa dive into the challenges and solutions for budgeting when your income is unpredictable. Whether you’re a freelancer, artist, or creative professional juggling side gigs and fluctuating paychecks, this episode offers practical strategies to keep your finances steady—even when your income isn’t.

From baseline budgeting to income buffer accounts, they break down a budgeting system that works with your creative lifestyle and share real-life lessons from their own experiences navigating freelance finances. Check out their FREE budget template in addition to this episode to get your budgeting back on track!

WE TALKED ABOUT:

• Why inconsistent income makes traditional budgeting strategies difficult
• The risks of spending money that hasn’t actually hit your account yet
• How to identify your “bare minimum baseline” income
• The four-tier system for prioritizing expenses and savings
• The importance of an income buffer savings account (and how to use it)
• Tools and mindset shifts to create stability during lean months
• A quick recap of the steps to take control of your fluctuating income

LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Download our FREE Budget Template designed for creatives
• Listen to Ep 8: Budgeting 101 - The Blueprint For Your Bank Account
• Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
• Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)

CONNECT WITH US:

•  Instagram: @showbiz.pod
• TikTok: @show.biz.pod
• Website: www.showbizpod.com

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See you next Wednesday!