For Better and Worth

What happens when the smallest coin in your pocket is no longer part of your daily life? The U.S. Mint officially stopped producing pennies for circulation in November 2025, marking a significant shift in our nation's currency.

In this episode, we explore the end of an era and dive deep into what this change reveals about our relationship with money, value, and history.

We'll uncover the economic reasons behind the decision, from the rising cost of production to the practicalities of rounding cash transactions. More than just a financial change, this is a cultural moment. We will explore the central question: How does the penny's disappearance affect how we view the value of money itself and how we use it?

Join us as we navigate this transition and all that it entails.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

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Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

In this episode, we explore the recent shift that directs catch-up contributions to Roth accounts, a change that transforms your long-term financial strategy.

Discover the incredible benefits of tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, while also understanding the trade-off of losing immediate tax deductions.

This pivotal change is your opportunity to build a more resilient and flexible financial future, giving you greater control over your retirement income. Tune in to learn actionable steps you can take today to adapt your plan and harness this new rule for maximum benefit.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

We explore a new and simple way that we approached our 2026 planning. It forced us to make a mindset shift: we began treating our personal finances with the same strategic focus and seriousness as a successful business.

By viewing yourself as the CEO of your household, you can unlock clarity, foster teamwork with your partner, and build a clear path toward your biggest goals. We break down the exact steps to review your performance, set inspiring goals, and create a winning strategy that aligns with what truly matters to you.

Get ready to feel energized, motivated, and completely in control of your financial destiny. Then take the necessary steps to implement this in your own finances.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

As the year comes to a close, it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and prepare for what lies ahead. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of end-of-year rituals, offering practical steps to help you close out the year with intention and step into the New Year with clarity and purpose. From reflecting on your achievements and reviewing your financial habits to setting intentional goals for personal, family, and professional growth, this episode is packed with actionable tips to make this transition your most meaningful yet.

We also dive into the importance of decluttering, both physically and mentally to create space for fresh opportunities and positive energy in the coming year. Whether it's organizing your workspace, cleaning out your fridge, or unsubscribing from distractions, these small but powerful acts can fuel your creativity and motivation. Tune in to learn how these rituals can help you end the year with gratitude and start the next one with unstoppable momentum!

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

This week, we are diving deep into the magic and the madness of the holiday season. Christmas looks a little different around here these days. Gone are the mile-long wish lists for toys and the frantic search for the latest gadget. Instead, we are navigating a beautiful new season of parenthood: Christmas with young adult daughters.

In this episode, we open up about the bittersweet transition of watching our girls grow up and how we are intentionally working to keep our family unit tight-knit, even as their lives expand. We talk candidly about the shift from buying so much "stuff" to creating moments and investing in their interests.

We also tackle the practical side of the holidays like staying on budget without being a Scrooge. We share how we are balancing the books while still making the season feel abundant and special.

Join us for a warm, honest conversation about love, family, and making memories that outlast the wrapping paper.

Merry Christmas!

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Are you dreaming of homeownership or moving up in home but feeling priced out of the market? You've probably heard whispers about the "50-year mortgage" as a magical solution to affordability. But before you sign on the dotted line for half a century of debt, you need to hear the truth. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into why this trending loan option might just be the biggest financial trap of our lifetime. We may be biased but for good reason!

We break down the shocking math behind these loans—revealing how lower monthly payments are essentially a mirage that could cost you triple your home's value in interest. We explore who really wins when you extend your mortgage (spoiler: it's not you), the psychological weight of lifelong debt, and the powerful alternatives that can actually build your wealth. Get ready to take control of your financial future and make decisions that empower you, not the banks!

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Ready to give your children the ultimate head start in life? Want to make sure they grow into confident, capable, and financially savvy adults (and not end up living in your basement forever)?

This episode is your guide to equipping your kids with essential money skills that schools often overlook. Teaching financial literacy can't be left to chance—you need to take an intentional approach. This time we share our own experience including things we wish we'd done to ensure our daughters are financially responsible young adults.

Join us as we dive into the key lessons that will help you shape a secure and successful future for the next generation.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Imagine going 44 days without a paycheck. Would you survive it financially?

This episode explores the financial lessons learned from the recent government shutdown that left millions in crisis. We dive into the absolute necessity of having an emergency fund as your personal safety net against the unexpected.

You will discover practical, actionable steps to take when your income suddenly stops, empowering you to navigate any financial storm with confidence. This isn't just about surviving; it's about building lasting financial resilience for a secure future.

This is an episode you don't want to miss!

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

As Thanksgiving approaches, a wave of gratitude washes over us, reminding us of the countless blessings in our lives.

In this truly special episode, we're peeling back the layers of this holiday to explore what it means to us. We'll be sharing some family traditions. We'll also provide heartfelt tips on how to remain fully present and soak in every precious moment with your loved ones, because we know that now, more than ever, the connections we share with family are what truly matter.

While the holiday season can sometimes bring financial pressures, we firmly believe that celebrating with intention and care is an investment that pays dividends in joy and memories.

Join us for an uplifting conversation as we explore all of this and so much more in this week's podcast episode.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

This episode dives into four game-changing net worth milestones that signal true financial progress. We're exploring the profound shifts in security, freedom, and opportunity that come with hitting these key targets.

We'll demystify what it means to become a millionaire, feel the incredible relief of paying off your home, and finally, define the ultimate goal: your Financial Independence (FI) number. Sometimes it is helpful to know that you are advancing in your financial journey even when the big milestones seem far away.

Listen in to learn more about what milestones to reach for and how to avoid the pitfalls at each level.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung