Welcome to today's episode of "Sex and Money with Jess." We're embarking on a new series of episodes, shifting our focus from money to the equally important topic of sex. In the initial 12 episodes, we delved into various aspects of finances, exploring emotions, organization, and intimacy with money.

But today, let's open up the conversation around sex. It's a topic often shrouded in silence by society, despite its omnipresence in media and politics. We're taught conflicting messages about sex - it's everywhere, yet we're not supposed to openly discuss it or understand our own desires.

Growing up, my family had open conversations about both sex and money. However, entering college opened my eyes to the lack of knowledge many people have. While college often becomes a time of exploration, I found myself less swayed by societal pressures due to the groundwork laid by my parents.

Attending a Christian campus added layers to the conversation, with discussions around abstinence and religious views on sex. But these conversations often lack depth, leaving individuals ill-prepared for the complexities of sexual relationships.

Personal experiences shape our views on sex. For me, it wasn't until I was 27 that I felt ready to engage in vaginal intercourse. But sex isn't just about physical acts; it's about understanding what feels good emotionally, functionally, and intellectually.

Education plays a crucial role in sexual health. I recall supporting a peer who lacked basic knowledge about contraception due to a lack of education and societal stigma. This highlights the importance of comprehensive sex education and open dialogue.

My parents' simple yet profound advice - if you're not mature enough to buy condoms, you're not mature enough to have sex - emphasizes the importance of responsibility and communication in sexual relationships.

Sexual empowerment comes from understanding and embracing our desires, free from societal judgments and stereotypes. It's about feeling comfortable in our bodies and having open, honest conversations with our partners.

Over the next 11 episodes, we'll explore various aspects of sexuality, from navigating shame and quick fixes to communicating with partners effectively. My hope is that through these conversations, you'll feel more confident and empowered in your own sexuality, free to build a fulfilling sex life on your own terms.

Remember, your sexuality is unique and beautiful, and there's no shame in exploring and embracing it. So let's dive in and start unpacking the complexities of sex together.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

In our final episode of this series, I want to touch on something we've all grappled with—money. Whether it's overcoming debt, navigating pay raises, or planning for the future, the journey to financial stability is often fraught with uncertainty and self-doubt.

But here's the thing—we're all in this together. From navigating student loans to grappling with societal pressures, each of us has our own financial story to tell. And while the road ahead may seem daunting at times, it's important to remember that mistakes are a natural part of the journey.

In fact, they're often the catalyst for growth and self-discovery. So whether you're celebrating a pay raise or grappling with unexpected expenses, take a moment to pause and reflect on your financial journey. Where are you now, and where do you want to be?

But remember, life isn't just about chasing numbers on a balance sheet; it's about embracing the present moment and finding joy in the journey. So as you navigate the twists and turns of life, remember to pause, take a breath, and soak in the beauty of the scenery around you.

Until next time, keep embracing life's scenic routes, and remember—you've got this.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

Welcome back to "Sex and Money with Jess," where we explore the intimate relationship between personal empowerment, sex, and finances. In this episode, we continue our journey into financial management by diving into the third part of our structure: making changes and planning for the future.

After organizing our finances and gaining a deep understanding of our numbers, we've laid the groundwork for the exciting part—envisioning and working towards our financial goals. It's time to ask ourselves what we truly want and what we're willing to do to get there.

I discuss the importance of identifying non-negotiable expenses and then looking at what's left to see where we can make adjustments. Whether it's saving for a house, investing, or paying off debt, the key is to start small, test changes, and see what works. It's not about perfection; it's about progress and being willing to tweak our approach as we go.

I share personal anecdotes about my own financial goals, like saving to buy a house and improving my health, and how I make daily decisions that align with these objectives. I also emphasize the power of asking for help and knowing when to reach out for support to stay accountable.

As we wrap up, I encourage you to take some time this week to think about your financial future. Play with the numbers, create scenarios, and have fun with it. Remember, it's about taking responsibility and being accountable for your money.

If you're struggling to find joy in financial planning or need some guidance, my doors are always open. Reach out, and let's make financial planning an enjoyable part of your journey to empowerment.

Until next week, may your days be filled with love and progress towards the future you desire.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

Welcome back to "Sex and Money with Jess." In today's episode, we continued our journey into financial empowerment by diving into the second part of my framework—getting intimate with your finances. Last week, we tackled organizing your finances, and this week, we're taking a closer look at where your money is actually going.

Understanding the flow of your money is crucial. It's about getting down to the nitty-gritty, categorizing your expenses, and really seeing the patterns in your spending. Whether it's rent, food, or those sneaky coffee runs, knowing where your money goes each month is the first step to financial intimacy.

I shared my personal experience with budgeting for recurring expenses like rent and annual costs like car registration and life insurance. It's important to be aware of the timing of these expenses to ensure you have the funds when needed and to avoid surprises.

We also discussed the importance of being proactive with your finances. By being intimate with your financial details, you can catch errors in your paycheck, prevent fraud, and make informed decisions about subscriptions and services you no longer need.

I encouraged you to take the time to review your transactions, question unfamiliar charges, and reconcile your accounts regularly. This practice not only prevents headaches down the line but also empowers you to make decisions that align with your financial goals.

Next week, we'll explore how to use this newfound financial intimacy to plan for the future. Remember, understanding where you are now is the key to getting where you want to be. So, take it slow, have fun with it, and embrace the journey to financial empowerment.

Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to continuing this conversation next week. Don't forget to share this podcast with someone who could benefit from it, and if you're ready to dive deeper, visit lovealwaysjess.com/get-started for more resources. Have a fantastic week!

Hey everyone, Jess here! In our latest episode of "Sex and Money with Jess," we dove into the crucial first step of my three-part process for achieving financial intimacy: organization. I shared my passion for getting up close and personal with your finances, just like you would in a relationship, to build a strong foundation for growth and understanding.

We talked about the importance of not just knowing your balances but understanding the transactions behind them. Whether it's your savings, checking, or credit card accounts, I emphasized the need to categorize each transaction to see where your money is truly going.

I shared my love for spreadsheets and how they can be a simple yet powerful tool for organizing your finances. I also mentioned other options like Quicken, QuickBooks, and various apps, but I stressed the value of manually inputting transactions to stay fully engaged with your spending.

I encouraged you to make the organization process enjoyable—put on some music, take breaks, and maybe even dance a little! Remember, starting now can change your future, so grab those bank statements and begin categorizing your transactions.

Next week, we'll explore the second part of the process, which is all about familiarizing yourself with your finances. Until then, have fun organizing, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need help or want to share your progress. Love you all, and thanks for tuning in!

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

Hey everyone, Jess here! In our latest episode of "Sex and Money with Jess," we dove into the empowering world of personal finance. I shared insights on how to carve out your own financial path, emphasizing the importance of making decisions that resonate with your unique life story and goals.

We discussed the common trap of following others' financial advice without considering if it aligns with our personal dreams and circumstances. While financial advisors are valuable for their expertise, I reminded listeners that they only see parts of our financial puzzle. As a money coach myself, I admitted that even I seek professional advice, but ultimately, we are the ones responsible for our financial choices.

I shared a story about a friend's dilemma between choosing a high-yield savings account and a credit union offer, highlighting that there's no one-size-fits-all solution in finance. We explored the idea that financial gurus like Rich Dad Poor Dad or Dave Ramsey offer perspectives based on their experiences, but it's crucial to filter their advice through our own life lens.

The episode encourages listeners to ask themselves what they truly want from their financial journey and to seek knowledge to make informed decisions. I stressed the importance of taking responsibility for our financial choices, as they shape our journey and teach us valuable lessons.

We also touched on the dynamic nature of our financial paths, how they can change direction based on new life events or goals, and the power we have to rewrite our financial narratives at any point.

I want you to enjoy the process, learn from it, and get excited about the future they're creating. I believe in the power of personal responsibility and the joy that comes from making our financial journey our own.

Remember, your financial journey is unique, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's continue to grow and thrive together. Can't wait to catch up with you all in the next episode. Until then, keep dreaming big and taking charge of your money story!

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

In today's episode we tackled the empowering topic of asking for more money and recognizing your worth. We delved into the current climate where workers are advocating for fair compensation and the importance of understanding your value in the workplace.

I shared my personal journey of going from a $50,000 salary at a gaming company to being put on probation and facing a pay cut, to eventually landing a job that paid $60,000 and then successfully negotiating a 40% raise to $90,000 with a 10% bonus. This story highlighted the courage it takes to ask for what you deserve and the importance of being prepared with a list of your accomplishments and a clear idea of your worth.

We discussed the gender differences in job applications and promotions, noting that women often wait until they feel 100% qualified before asking for a raise, while men might do so when they feel 60% ready. I encouraged listeners to trust in their ability to learn and grow into new roles.

The episode emphasized the power of negotiation and the reality that companies aim to save money. I advised listeners to go into salary discussions with a higher figure in mind, as it opens up room for negotiation. It's important to remember that the worst outcome is simply a "no," and there are always options available, whether it's accepting the offer, finding a new job, or negotiating further.

I also offered insights from my experience in payroll and budgeting, explaining how companies approach salary decisions and the importance of advocating for yourself since companies prioritize their bottom line.

Remember, you are worth it, and it's up to you to chase what you deserve. Show up with confidence, negotiate your value, and don't be afraid to ask for more.

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from it, and don't forget to leave a review. Here's to thriving in all aspects of life!

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

In this episode of Sex and Money with Jess, I delve into the importance of starting your financial journey, regardless of your age or past hesitations. I share my personal experiences and the realization that it's never too late to take control of your finances and work towards your goals.

I discuss the societal pressures and shame that often hold us back from pursuing our financial dreams. I reflect on my own hesitations about starting this podcast and how I overcame the fear of entering an already established market. This journey has taught me valuable lessons about growth and the power of starting, no matter how late it may seem.

I open up about my goal of buying a house within the next year and the steps I'm taking to achieve it, such as cutting back on expenses and saying no to certain opportunities.

I encourage you, to identify your goals and the reasons behind them, and to take small, consistent steps towards achieving them. Starting earlier might have led to different outcomes, it's the decision to start now that truly matters.

I believe in your ability to reach your goals and the importance of taking action today. I invite you to join me on this journey of financial empowerment and to share this message with others who might benefit from it.

Remember, it's not about where you could have been, but where you can go from here. Let's chase our dreams together and create the future we desire.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

In today's episode of Sex and Money with Jess, we explored the delicate balance between enjoying life's pleasures and being financially responsible. I shared insights on how to deepen your relationship with yourself and others when it comes to sex and money, and how to step into your empowered self without shame or societal pressures.

We kicked off the discussion with my personal experience in a book club, where we're currently reading "Daring Greatly" by Brene Brown. This led to a reflection on the courage it takes to pursue podcasting and personal growth.

I am debunking the myth that small indulgences like avocado toast or Starbucks coffee are the reasons behind not achieving financial milestones like buying a house. Instead, I emphasized the importance of enjoying your money without excessive restriction.

I shared a creative approach to saving for big purchases, like setting a task and assigning a dollar value to it, which adds an element of fun and satisfaction to the process. Additionally, I discussed the importance of cutting back on non-essential expenses, like multiple streaming services, to free up funds for more meaningful experiences.

The key takeaway is to identify what truly brings you joy and to make conscious choices about where to cut back. It's about setting clear financial goals, understanding the sacrifices needed to reach them, and still allowing yourself the pleasures that make life worth living.

Life is meant to be enjoyed and that we should dare greatly to reach our goals without sacrificing joy. I invited listeners to reflect on their own financial and personal joy, and to join me again next week for more empowering discussions.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess

Welcome back to Sex and Money w/ Jess, let's dive into today's topic: quick fixes. I often find myself having conversations with people facing financial challenges or laying the foundation for their future. Quick fixes like selling possessions or making impulsive decisions may seem tempting, but there's more to consider.

Before jumping into a quick fix, take a moment to analyze all angles. Consider scenarios like selling your car to buy a bike for commuting. While it sounds eco-friendly and healthy, factors like weather, terrain, and unexpected situations need attention.

Financially, selling items or making quick changes can bring in income, but have you thought about what you'll do with that money? Are you pausing to decide if it goes into savings, investments, or paying off debts?

The issue arises when people revert to old spending habits after a quick financial boost. The key is to align the newfound income with your financial goals. Enjoying money is essential, but when you have specific financial objectives, a quick fix might not be the best approach.

When considering a quick fix, pause and discuss it with someone you trust. Seek a second opinion and talk through the pros and cons. Write down the numerical value of the quick fix and create a financial scenario, looking ahead to months or even years. The goal is to make a decision aligned with your financial future.

Don't rush into quick fixes without assessing the impact. Sleep on it, and physically act out scenarios. Ask yourself if it feels right and if it aligns with your goals. Quick fixes aren't always bad, but taking the time to pause and assess leads to more informed decisions.

I've learned from experience that impulsive decisions without a financial foundation can lead to regrets. Whether it takes days or hours, create a routine of understanding your finances. It'll benefit you more in the long run.

If you're in the midst of contemplating a quick fix and need an opinion, feel free to shoot me an email. I'm here to help.

Connect with Jess

Website: www.lovealwaysjess.com/getstarted

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.always.jess