In this episode of Bartelle's Money Talk, Theresa Bartelle sits down with certified financial planner Monica Kaufman to unpack the truth about money — and why it’s just a tool, not a master.

Monica shares powerful, real-life stories and strategies to help you:

• Break free from generational financial habits

• Build an emergency fund without sabotaging debt payoff

• Use money strategically to create the life you actually want

• Escape the pressure of impressing others and start building wealth

• Understand the difference between income and wealth

💡 You’ll learn how to reframe your mindset, create a plan that works for YOU, and take ownership of your financial future.

📌 Key Topics Covered:
0:00 – Welcome & Monica’s background
2:30 – Why 80% of people are financially illiterate
6:15 – The danger of living without an emergency fund
10:31 – The "fitness rubric" for financial health
14:55 – Wealth vs. income: why they’re not the same
20:00 – Breaking free from shame and status pressure
26:48 – The trap of luxury spending & status symbols
33:25 – Balancing debt payoff and emergency savings
38:43 – Money as a tool, not a master
41:07 – How to work with Monica Kaufman

💬 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway from Monica’s advice.