In this reflective and thought-provoking episode of Money on My Mind, I share why I’m letting go of traditional goal-setting in favor of a powerful mindset shift. I open up about a pivotal realization inspired by my CPA exam journey, explaining how operating with a scarcity mindset can hinder progress, even when you’re hitting milestones. I discuss the importance of trusting yourself, setting broad intentions instead of rigid goals, and embracing abundance over scarcity. 

Whether you’re an ambitious goal-setter or looking for clarity in your financial journey, I hope this episode inspires you to rethink how you approach your objectives for a more fulfilling and impactful life.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

02:10 Living with intentionality

03:27 My journey taking the CPA tests: Lessons from failure and persistence

07:20 How overcoming the scarcity mindset affects your results

09:11 Shifting to a mindset of abundance and trusting innate skills

12:34 Why I decided to quit my goals this year

13:49 How changing your mindset can change the results you’re going to achieve

Quotables

“You can trust yourself to get there without stressing yourself out to get there.”

“Goals framed by scarcity can push you onto a treadmill of endless moving goalposts.”

“Shifting from scarcity to abundance is the key to operating at a higher level.”

Links

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

https://www.amazon.com/Subtle-Art-Not-Giving-Counterintuitive/dp/0062457713

Atomic Habits

https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299

Budgetdog

https://www.budgetdog.com

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of Money on My Mind, I’m sharing with you a life-changing ordeal involving mold toxicity that has left my family without a home and facing significant financial challenges. I share the emotional and financial impact of this event, detailing how we’re managing over $300,000 in unexpected expenses while caring for our immunocompromised daughter. 

This episode dives deep into the importance of financial preparedness, resilience in the face of adversity, and the mindset needed to overcome life’s toughest challenges. Packed with raw honesty and actionable insights, my goal is to provide a wake-up call to take control of your finances before disaster strikes.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:11 What do you value the most in life?

02:44 Managing financial and emotional stress 

05:31 The two routes when facing adversity: Fight or flight

07:59 What the mold crisis really looked like for us

12:12 How much this situation cost us

13:48 The importance of financial preparedness and living below your means

20:11 The impact of having sustainable and automated systems

22:44 Developing a mindset that can weather every storm

Quotables

“You can only lose if you give up. Resilience is the key to overcoming any adversity.”

“Life isn’t fair, but sitting in excuses won’t fix anything. You have to act.”

“Financial freedom isn’t about luxury; it’s about having the muscle to handle life’s hardest moments.”

Links

Budgetdog

https://budgetdog.com

This week, I’m diving into a question that so many of us have asked: “Where do I start financially?” Whether you’re overwhelmed by information, held back by fear, or unsure where to begin, I’ve got you covered. In this episode, I lay out the essential first steps to take control of your finances, from setting up foundational documents to understanding how to track, grow, and protect your money. Plus, I share practical advice on building financial literacy, staying patient, and managing emotions around money—key components to long-term success. Grab a notebook because this one is packed with actionable steps to jumpstart your journey to financial freedom!

Timeline of Key Moments:

[0:00] - Introduction

[0:14] - The big question: Where do I start financially?

[2:22] - Why breathing and managing emotions are the first steps to financial clarity.

[7:10] - The three critical documents you need to track your financial progress.

[10:15] - Free vs. paid financial education: Understanding the value of investing in yourself.

[13:45] - Why patience is essential in your financial journey and how it reduces stress.

[17:07] - Breaking down the “Track, Grow, Protect” framework for managing money.

[20:00] - Building a financial system: How to link your goals, budget, and investments.

[24:10] - The importance of estate planning, tax strategies, and protecting your financial future.

Links & Resources:

• Free financial tools and templates: https://budgetdogtemplate.com/bonus-training 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1rX4-EsIvUmx6cLVp7NG_JR-hD1e72-Ad/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114928106753728252238&rtpof=true&sd=true

• Join the Budgetdog Academy: https://budgetdog.com/

• Donate to Dravet Syndrome research: https://dravetfoundation.org/donate/

Closing Remark:

Thanks for tuning in! If you’re ready to take bold steps toward your financial goals, don’t just listen—take action today. If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who needs a financial boost and subscribe so you never miss a tip. See you next week, and let’s keep mastering our money together!

In this raw and deeply personal episode, I take you into the chaos of our current life—a home filled with mold and mycotoxins, a battle for my daughter Logan’s health, and the unyielding determination it takes to keep moving forward. From navigating her rare condition, Dravet Syndrome, to uncovering the hidden dangers in our environment, we’ve faced challenges that test us daily. Through these trials, we’ve learned that giving up is the only way to truly lose.

Join me as I share the incredible miracles we’ve experienced, like finding groundbreaking care at Infinity Functional Neurology, and how unexpected connections and perseverance are shaping our journey. Whether you’re facing health, financial, or personal obstacles, this episode is a reminder that your strength and faith can lead you through anything.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] - Introduction

[0:27] - Setting the stage: A messy, mold-infested home and a battle to stay hopeful.

[1:08] - Logan’s health journey: From 22 seizures in 2022 to a brief, hopeful respite in 2023.

[2:28] - Discovering the problem: Mycotoxins in our new home and their devastating impact.

[4:02] - Finding hope: A life-changing trip to Infinity Functional Neurology in Iowa.

[7:00] - Miracles unfold: A nutritionist’s dream, Logan’s incredible progress, and newfound optimism.

[10:57] - Celebrating milestones: Logan’s newfound energy, confidence, and joy at the park.

[17:10] - The cost of perseverance: Financial sacrifices, emotional resilience, and unwavering focus.

[20:47] - A powerful reminder: Why giving up is the only way to lose.

Links & Resources:

https://bookwithbudgetdog.com/ped https://www.iowainfinity.com/

Closing:

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more inspiring stories and practical insights. Until next time, remember: You only lose if you give up.

In this powerful and inspiring episode, you’ll hear the remarkable journey of Jackie, who went from a challenging upbringing to achieving financial freedom. Jackie shares what it was like growing up in a household where financial struggles were the norm, working at McDonald’s as a teenager, and how those early experiences could resonate with your own money mindset. She walks you through the pivotal moments that helped her break free from generational financial habits, the strategies she used to overcome debt, and the advice she has for anyone looking to transform their financial life. 

This episode invites you to reflect on resilience, self-awareness, and the transformative power of financial literacy.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:20 Lessons learned from an immigrant household with limited resources

03:04 The impact of growing up in scarcity and survival mode 

04:18 What Jackie’s mindset was like about money

07:12 Breaking generational mindsets and realizing new possibilities through education

09:44 How the struggles in transitioning to adulthood impacted Jackie’s financial situation

14:51 What small financial wins can do to your mindset

17:33 How clarity can impact your ability to achieve financial freedom

18:17 Where to begin if you want to achieve financial freedom

Quotables

“Your reality doesn’t have to define your future; your mindset does.”

“Money is like a garden—you plant the seed, nurture it, and it will grow into something fruitful over time.”

“Seeing others think bigger unlocked my own potential to dream and achieve.”

Links

Budgetdog

https://budgetdog.com/

Are you unable to afford a financial coach or are you just hesitant to spend money on coaching? Investing in coaching or mentorship can feel like a big leap, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make to fast-track your journey to financial freedom. In this episode, we’re diving into the mindset you need to approach these investments, why they’re worth it, and how they can help you avoid costly mistakes. 

Let’s talk about shifting your perspective from ‘expense’ to ‘opportunity’ and taking the steps to level up your financial game!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:50 Questions to ask yourself before hiring a coach

03:37 What it costs to not have a financial coach

06:17 Is hiring a coach worth it?

08:46 What to consider before hiring a coach

10:20 Why trust is important when looking for a coach

11:12 Understanding the value of what you’re spending money on

13:35 How coaching can help change your financial situation

Quotables

“All you have to do and think about is understanding the core concept of money – how do I leverage the green paperback to get more value in my life?” “You have to understand that 80% of millionaires are first-generation millionaires, so most of the time, no one starts with money.”

“Sometimes it’s not about having the money, it’s about seeing the value.”

Links

Budgetdog

https://budgetdog.com

In this episode, we’re diving into why rushing to achieve financial freedom can actually set you back. Building wealth takes time, patience, and the right strategies—not shortcuts that leave you stressed and broke. 

Let’s talk about how to focus on sustainable progress, make smarter financial decisions, and enjoy the journey toward true financial independence!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:48 What you should be focused on when building financial freedom

04:30 Why do you want to achieve financial freedom?

08:22 What you need to start feeling better about your finances

10:29 How not having a financial roadmap can stress you out

12:05 The biggest lesson in achieving financial freedom

14:05 How automation and simplification can get you to financial freedom sooner

Quotables

“It’s not just a number. It’s really understanding that that number gives us the lifestyle that we wanna live.” “It’s not actually always about hitting your financial freedom number, it’s about knowing the right path – you’re going the right direction.” 

“If you figure out the roadmap to financial freedom and you actually lay all the steps out, you’re gonna bring your stress down instantly.”

Links

Budgetdog

https://budgetdog.com/

In this deeply personal and motivating episode, Brennan Slagbaum reflects on a life-changing experience with his daughter’s health and how it reinforced the key traits that drive success. He shares the top three traits of highly successful people—persistence, consistency, and hunger—explaining how these qualities shape not only financial freedom but also personal growth. 

Brennan opens up about his own challenges, including his family’s journey with Dravet syndrome, and how mindset, focus, and determination have been critical in achieving his goals. This episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to overcome obstacles and reach their potential.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:57 The seizure that challenged our family

09:28 How life’s challenges shape perspective and resilience

13:28 Trait #1 - Persistence

16:01 Trait #2 - Consistency

20:28 Trait #3 - Hunger to Win

22:06 How your confidence will affect your persistence

25:35 How your true self will help you align with your success

27:50 Why focusing on traits is more important than outcomes

Quotables

“Use your disadvantage to your advantage – that’s how you win.”

“Your hunger to succeed often comes from deep within—aligning with who you truly are.”

“Persistence is a promise you make to yourself that you will not break, no matter the challenges.”

Links

Budgetdog

https://budgetdog.com/

https://instagram.com/budgetdog

Do you want to be able to quit your 9-5 job so you can focus on building wealth and achieving financial freedom? 

The decision isn’t easy to make and the transition can be excruciating, but if you plan well and you take every step necessary to move forward, you can make it happen – maybe even sooner than you expected. This is exactly what happened to us and this is what we’re helping people do with their lives too at Budgetdog Academy. 

Listen now to learn how to quit your job without being impulsive and what steps are important to take when you’re about to make the transition!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Changing your mindset 

04:46 Managing your finances

07:37 Making the decision to leave

11:42 Focusing on growing the business

14:10 What it takes to be able to quit your 9-5 for good

Quotables

“If there is fear, it is your guiding light.”

“Knowing your expenses down to the penny is the foundation of financial freedom.”

“When you gain back your time, you can focus on one mission, and that will change your life.”

Links

Budgetdog Academy

https://budgetdogacademy.com

In this episode of Money on My Mind, I’m diving deep into a topic that’s close to my heart: investing for our children. I share the strategies my wife and I use to set our daughters up for financial success, but this isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the principles and values we’re instilling in them to ensure they use wealth responsibly and make an impact. I tackle the common misconception that investing for your kids leads to them being “spoiled” and lay out the steps we take to ensure they grow up with a strong understanding of financial responsibility and giving back.

We explore the essential accounts and investments we’re leveraging—from brokerage accounts to Roth IRAs—and why creating a system for generational wealth goes beyond just putting money in their hands. Whether it’s setting up a trust with intentional stipulations or teaching the importance of financial literacy, this episode is a call to rethink how we approach wealth for the next generation.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] - Introduction 

[0:41] - Why I believe in raising “trust fund babies” with responsibility

[2:07] - Our mission to raise $1 million for Dravet syndrome in honor of my daughter

[4:31] - Debunking the myth: Money doesn’t spoil kids; lack of values does

[8:14] - Building generational wealth and why I’m the “first millionaire” in my family

[10:05] - Mastering habits and the power of financial literacy for kids

[17:32] - Trusts and stipulations: Setting financial expectations for our daughters

[19:17] - How we invest for each of our daughters with a mix of accounts and goals

[24:20] - Creating a positive financial mindset for our children and why it matters

5 Key Takeaways

1. Money Doesn’t Spoil; Values Do – Wealth alone doesn’t lead to entitlement; it’s the values we instill that matter. Teaching responsibility and gratitude is essential in raising well-rounded, financially empowered kids.

2. Generational Wealth Starts with Habits – Creating a financial system and healthy money habits for your kids can set them up for a successful future and help them manage wealth wisely.

3. Leverage a Mix of Accounts – From brokerage accounts to Roth IRAs and 529 plans, choosing the right accounts can maximize growth while ensuring funds align with your goals for your child.

4. Intentional Gifting Through Trusts – Using trusts with specific stipulations is an effective way to provide for your children without fostering dependency or entitlement, helping them value their inheritance.

5. Positive Financial Mindset is Key – Cultivating a positive attitude toward money and avoiding stress around finances can empower your kids to approach money confidently and generously.

Links & Resources

Join our beginner Millionaire Club today 👉🏼 https://www.budgetdogacademy.com/millionaire-club

Check out our more advanced Budgetdog Academy 👉🏼 https://bookwithbudgetdog.com/ytd

Get my new book 👉🏼 https://www.budgetdogacademy.com/pre-order-now

Download my FREE budget template 👉🏼 https://budgetdogtemplate.com/download

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share the podcast with anyone who could benefit from these insights. Join us in building a financially empowered future for our kids!