Still Figuring It Out

Episode 2: Coddiwomple - Our Journey Together

Introduction

Welcome to the our podcast! We, Marc and Emily Pitman, are excited to embark on this new journey together. In this episode, we introduce ourselves, share our backgrounds, and discuss our new favorite word, "coddiwomple," which means to travel purposefully toward an unknown destination. Join us as we explore our past, our present, and the adventures that lie ahead.

About the Hosts

• Emily Pitman:

  • Certified Co-Active Coach
  • Credentialed with the International Coach Federation
  • Writer of the weekly newsletter "Sprouts"
  • Aspiring speaker
  • Former educator and support cheerleader for a serial entrepreneur
  • Committed to adventure

• Marc Pitman:

  • Executive coach for nonprofit and tech founders
  • Runs an International Coach Federation accredited program
  • Speaker and trainer at conferences
  • Author of eight books, including "Surprising Gifted Out"
  • Early adopter of technology and social media
  • Husband to Emily for 28 years and father of three

Key Discussion Points

0:00 - 5:00 | Introduction and Backgrounds

• Emily introduces herself and her journey from educator to coach and writer.
• Marc shares his background as an executive coach and entrepreneur.
• Both discuss their commitment to adventure and personal growth.

5:01 - 10:00 | The Word "Coddiwomple"

• Emily explains how she discovered the word "coddiwomple."
• Discussion on how "coddiwomple" perfectly encapsulates their approach to life and their podcast.

10:01 - 20:00 | Meeting and Early Relationship

• Marc and Emily recount how they met at a conservative evangelical college in 1994.
• They share amusing anecdotes about their initial interactions and the cultural context of their meeting.
• Reflections on their different backgrounds and early challenges.

20:01 - 30:00 | Journey to Marriage

• The couple's decision not to date in the traditional sense due to their beliefs at the time.
• Their trip to India as a pivotal moment in their relationship.
• Engagement and marriage timeline: from Labor Day meeting to Memorial Day wedding in 1995.

30:01 - 40:00 | Life Together and Professional Growth

• Transition from newlyweds to co-adventurers in life and work.
• Marc's decision to avoid traditional seminary to maintain his authenticity.
• Both share their perspectives on maintaining personal integrity and growth through their careers.

40:01 - End | Reflections and Looking Ahead

• Emily and Marc discuss the significance of being "pilgrims" on a journey rather than adhering to rigid life plans.
• The importance of discovery, listening, and staying open to new experiences.
• A heartfelt exchange about their partnership and future plans for the podcast.

Notable Quotes

• Emily: "My dream since high school was to be a speaker, which is now what I'm starting to do, adding speaking to coaching and writing."
• Marc: "I help passionate founders who realize they have an organization around them and don't know what to do with it."
• Emily: "Coddiwomple - to travel purposefully toward an unknown destination - is the perfect word for us."
• Marc: "We're working towards something, but it's a purpose, not a place."

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Marc and Emily Pitman share their unique journey, from their early days of meeting at college to their professional and personal growth over the years. The concept of "coddiwomple" sets the tone for their podcast, highlighting their commitment to purposeful, adventurous living. Stay tuned for more episodes as they continue to explore life, love, and leadership together.

That Music!:

Thank you to Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Thank you for joining us on this journey! 🌟

Episode Summary:

In this season finale of "Still Figuring It Out," hosts Marc and Emily Pitman reflect on their journey through the season, sharing the joys, challenges, and unexpected lessons they've encountered. From embracing messiness to reveling in unscripted dialogues, they explore what it means to combine work and life, maintain a playful spirit, and the importance of enjoying the process rather than fixating on outcomes.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00:06] - Season introduction by Marc and Emily, highlighting the theme of embracing imperfection.
• [00:14:15] - Discussion on their commitment to authenticity and allowing conversations to unfold organically.
• [00:30:40] - Marc and Emily discuss the benefits of their conversational style, touching on deeper understandings and shared personal insights.
• [00:46:15] - Reflections on the personal growth and discoveries from hosting the podcast.
• [00:52:30] - Marc and Emily ponder future topics and the potential format for the next season.
• [01:05:45] - Closing thoughts on what they've learned this season and what listeners can expect when they return.

Notable Quotes:

• "We did commit to making our first whatever many messy episodes." - Marc [00:40:17]
• "It's been really great to have this space to talk with each other, remember our old stories, create our new ones." - Emily [00:47:20]
• "What's the business outcome you want from this?... It's bringing joy to us." - Marc [00:52:30]

Key Takeaways:

• Embracing imperfection can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling creative process.
• The importance of maintaining joy and playfulness in collaborative projects.
• Reflection and adaptation are crucial for personal and professional growth.

Connect with Us:

• Marc Pitman: Email - [email protected]
• Emily Pitman: Email - [email protected]

We hope you enjoyed this season as much as we did creating it. Stay subscribed for updates on our return for Season 2!

That Music!

Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Hosts:

🎤 Marc A. Pitman, CSP – Speaker, coach, and visionary wall demolisher 🎤 Emily Pitman – Systems and spaces designer, master planner

Episode Summary

In this milestone 10th episode of We're Still Figuring It Out, Emily and Marc Pitman continue the quarterly questions conversation with four guiding questions for the quarter. They reflect on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of making intentional space for what truly matters—whether it's supporting coaches, embracing creativity, or finding time for nature.

Expect honest conversations filled with insight, humor, and a touch of playful banter (including debates on the necessity of bugs and dirt). They also discuss balancing administrative roles with creative work, the power of deep questions in coaching, and how simple reminders—like "What do I want?"—can be unexpectedly challenging.

⏳ Timestamps & Key Topics 🔹 Introduction

• [00:00:03] Welcome to We're Still Figuring It Out!
• [00:00:35] Marc almost spits coffee all over his computer ☕💻
• [00:00:51] Introducing Marc's work with The Nonprofit Academy & Quadrant 3 Leadership Coaching Certification

🔹 The Power of Deep Questions

• [00:01:46] Emily's unique coaching style & why her "weird" questions land perfectly
• [00:02:30] The impact of feeling seen and how Emily's approach makes that happen
• [00:02:53] Kicking off the 4 Questions for Quarter 2

🔹 Balancing Roles & Leadership

• [00:04:00] Are we honoring Emily's role as COO at Conquer Leadership Group?
• [00:05:26] Finding the balance: administrative tasks vs. creative coaching
• [00:06:10] Sticky notes, whiteboards, and cats as project managers 🐱

🔹 Supporting & Celebrating Coaches

• [00:06:45] How can we support Q3LC coaches beyond certification?
• [00:07:58] Emily's idea for a quarterly coaching community update

🔹 The Hardest Question: "What Do I Want?"

• [00:09:29] Marc's daily reminder: What do I want?
• [00:10:48] Why answering this question feels uncomfortable
• [00:11:50] Marc's dream of getting a PhD in Leadership 🎓

🔹 Self-Care & Making Space for Joy

• [00:14:33] Emily's goal: "When will I go to state parks?" 🌲🏕️
• [00:15:03] The need for nature, fresh air, and a break from screens
• [00:16:50] Marc and Emily debate bugs, dirt, and the proper footwear for hiking 🦶🪲

🔹 Looking Ahead: The Power of Reflection

• [00:17:40] Why quarterly reflection matters
• [00:18:10] Creating visual reminders to stay accountable
• [00:19:20] Inviting listeners to share their own quarterly rhythms

💡 Key Takeaways

✅ Making Space for Creativity – It's easy to get lost in admin work. We have to be intentional about carving out space for our passions.

✅ Quarterly Reflection Questions Matter – They help keep us aligned, grounded, and focused on what we truly value.

✅ Supporting Others = Supporting Ourselves – Leadership and coaching aren't just about giving. It's also about receiving and growing together.

✅ Nature Is a Reset Button – Whether it's a local park or a road trip, getting outside can be healing and clarifying.

✅ Asking "What Do I Want?" Feels Hard, But It's Worth It – The journey to self-awareness and growth starts with this question.

💬 Join the Conversation!

We want to hear from you! 📩 What questions guide your own quarterly reflections? 📩 How do you make space for creativity and self-care?

Drop your thoughts in the comments or email us at [your email here].

✨ Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, keep asking great questions—because we're all still figuring it out. 🚀

Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Hosts:

🎤 Marc A. Pitman, CSP – Speaker, coach, and visionary wall demolisher 🎤 Emily Pitman – Systems and spaces designer, master planner

Episode Summary

In this inaugural episode of Still Figuring It Out, Marc and Emily Pitman dive into the Four Questions for the Quarter, a structured yet organic way they approach planning, growth, and creativity. With humor, warmth, and insight, they explore:

• The chaos and creativity of Emily's brainstorming process
• Marc's quest for intentional client outreach
• The balance between building systems and preserving creative energy
• Finding time and space for writing goals

All while navigating the fun dynamics of co-hosting and co-creating!

🕒 Timestamps & Key Topics:

⏳ [00:00:03] – Welcome & introductions ⏳ [00:00:08] – Emily's "neon post-it" mind & Marc's admiration for her unique system ⏳ [00:01:15] – A bit of sibling banter: shady backgrounds and cat boxes ⏳ [00:02:04] – Establishing the podcast's structure and episode count ⏳ [00:03:09] – Introduction to Four Questions for the Quarter ⏳ [00:06:00] – Question #1: Where will I be getting clients? (Marc's focus on intentional networking) ⏳ [00:08:00] – Question #1 (Emily): What systems do I want settled into habits? (Balancing structure and creativity) ⏳ [00:09:16] – Question #2: How do I balance launching a new thing with paying tuition? (Marc's metaphor of life as a cupcake 🍰) ⏳ [00:12:15] – Question #2 (Emily): How many words will I write? (Tracking writing progress & using Scrivener) ⏳ [00:17:39] – Wrapping up and reflections on tracking progress

🔑 Key Takeaways:

✅ Marc's "Client Question": Being intentional about outreach rather than relying solely on inbound opportunities. ✅ Emily's "Systems Question": Building habits that free up creative energy rather than draining it. ✅ Marc's "Balance Question": Protecting revenue streams while embracing new ventures. ✅ Emily's "Writing Question": Tracking progress and defining what "counts" as writing.

🎙️ Favorite Quotes:

Marc: "Life is a cupcake—protect the base because the frosting won't hold itself up!" 🧁 Emily: "I feel a little used…like a cat who got a fancy box and never used it again." 🐱 Marc: "Did you just do your homework during class and ruin recess for the rest of us?" 😆 Emily: "If I can automate systems, I can be creative somewhere else." 🎨

📌 What's Next?

Part 2 of the Four Questions Series! 📝 In the next episode, Marc & Emily continue unpacking their quarterly questions and dive deeper into balancing productivity, creativity, and life.

📢 Connect With Us:

🌐 Podcast Website: [Insert Link] 📲 Follow Marc on Twitter: [Insert Link] 📲 Connect with Emily on LinkedIn: [Insert Link]

💬 Join the conversation! What's your question for the quarter? Share it with us on social media! 🚀

This episode was full of laughs, reflections, and thoughtful strategy—subscribe and stay tuned as we figure it out together! 🎧✨ Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Hosts:

🎤 Marc A. Pitman, CSP – Speaker, coach, and visionary wall demolisher 🎤 Emily Pitman – Systems and spaces designer, master planner

Episode Summary

In this episode of Still Figuring It Out, Marc and Emily Pitman reflect on life, marriage, and the evolving ways they celebrate birthdays (or, in this case, not celebrate them). They dive into the pressures around gift-giving, family expectations, and the freedom that comes from rethinking traditions. From birthday pies to self-care, the couple explores what it means to be intentional about celebrations while staying true to their values.

Timestamps & Key Topics

⏱ [00:00:03] - Welcome! Emily kicks off the episode with a lighthearted question: Does the weekend start now, or in six hours?

⏱ [00:00:26] - Who We Are Marc and Emily introduce themselves as life partners, business partners, and co-hosts who are still figuring things out.

⏱ [00:01:59] - The Math of Marriage Reflecting on their nearly 29-year marriage, they joke about how counting years (or months) changes as you get older.

⏱ [00:02:46] - Living from Strengths The couple discusses their shared mission: helping others embrace their strengths and gifts.

⏱ [00:03:02] - "We Didn't Have Birthdays This Year" Marc and Emily talk about skipping traditional birthday celebrations and opting for something different—a September celebration instead of their usual January and February birthdays.

⏱ [00:04:02] - Why Change the Tradition? Marc explains that his birthday, falling so close to Christmas, has always been a challenge for gift-giving. Emily shares how their kids are now financially independent, making gifts more of a financial stress than a necessity.

⏱ [00:06:04] - The Kindness of Letting Go of Expectations They discuss how choosing to forgo gifts and big celebrations was not just about them but also a way to relieve family members of unnecessary pressure.

⏱ [00:08:32] - Birthday Pies & Small Traditions Instead of a big party, Marc enjoyed a homemade chocolate bourbon pecan pie, while Emily had a French silk chocolate pie with pretzel crust—a delicious alternative to gifts!

⏱ [00:10:57] - The Shift in Mindset Marc opens up about the weirdness of not celebrating in the usual way and the unexpected joy of receiving birthday wishes on Facebook.

⏱ [00:14:09] - Looking Ahead to Next Year What will birthdays look like next year? Marc and Emily explore ideas, including a trip just for the two of them (Disney, anyone?). They also discuss how prioritizing them over obligations feels both freeing and indulgent.

⏱ [00:17:57] - Gifts Without Obligation Emily shares her philosophy on gift-giving: she prefers spontaneous, heartfelt gestures over obligatory presents on specific days.

⏱ [00:19:46] - Wrapping Up The episode ends with a reminder that life—and celebrations—are things we're all still figuring out.

Notable Quotes

💬 "We exist to help other people live from their strengths and their gifts, and to celebrate those with them." – Emily Pitman

💬 "Gifts are frosting on the cake. The presence of loved ones is what truly matters." – Marc A. Pitman

💬 "I didn't know the rules. I thought we said 'no birthdays,' so I wasn't sure if I was even allowed to celebrate in my own way!" – Marc A. Pitman

💬 "It's easier to say no to something than to say yes to ourselves." – Marc A. Pitman

Key Takeaways

✔ Reevaluating Traditions: Just because you've always done something a certain way doesn't mean you have to keep doing it. ✔ The Pressure of Gift-Giving: Sometimes the best gift you can give is removing the obligation to give. ✔ Prioritizing What Matters: Birthdays don't have to be about gifts—they can be about self-care, quality time, and personal reflection. ✔ Navigating Family Dynamics: Making space for new traditions can be an act of kindness, both for yourself and others.

Listener Engagement

💡 What about you? Do you have a non-traditional way of celebrating birthdays or milestones? 📩 Let us know! Share your thoughts with us on [social media] or email us at [podcast email].

🎧 Loved this episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help others find Still Figuring It Out!

🎙️ Until next time, we're still figuring it out! Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Join hosts Marc and Emily Pitman in this reflective and candid episode of "Still Figuring It Out" as they navigate the complexities of travel, work, and changing family dynamics. The couple delves into their experiences with balancing professional responsibilities, personal relationships, and the nuances of life transitions. This episode is packed with real-life anecdotes, professional insights, and a healthy dose of humor as they explore how their lives and work have evolved over the years.

Timestamps

• [00:00:05] - Introduction by Marc, touching on the importance of getting things "just right."
• [00:00:38] - Emily discusses Marc's role as a technical host and their recent travel schedules.
• [00:01:12] - Emily's reflection on restarting the episode recording.
• [00:01:43] - Marc introduces Emily, her roles, and their joy in working and living together.
• [00:02:11] - The couple decides to talk about the theme of travel and its impact over different life stages.
• [00:03:03] - Marc describes the exhausting nature of his travel and work schedule.
• [00:04:07] - Discussion on how their travel and work approach has changed with their kids growing up.
• [00:05:07] - Insights into how travel and work-life integration has become less rigid over time.
• [00:06:08] - Marc and Emily reflect on the protective nature of family time in the past.
• [00:07:14] - Exploration of how aging and life stages influence work travel and recovery times.
• [00:08:10] - Challenges of travel delays and the unexpected emotional toll.
• [00:09:41] - Delving into the different audience dynamics Marc faced during his talks.
• [00:10:58] - Discussing the changing needs of their base camp (home) as their family dynamics evolve.
• [00:13:11] - Anticipation and planning for an upcoming trip that coincides with their child's travel plans.
• [00:15:14] - Marc and Emily ponder over the different personal and professional roles they play during travels.
• [00:16:15] - The episode concludes with thoughts on embracing new travel and work rhythms without self-criticism.

Key Quotes

• Marc: "I don't know what we were thinking 20 years ago, but it was definitely not this. And I'm glad that this is still happy and good."
• Emily: "Is it an aging thing that you're getting older and requiring more turnaround time? Or did we just not do that before?"
• Marc: "It's so much fun teaching with her, and it's so much fun doing life with her."

Notable Takeaways

• Travel and Work Integration: Marc and Emily discuss how their approach to integrating travel with work responsibilities has shifted as their children have grown and their personal and professional lives have evolved.
• Family Dynamics: They reflect on how changes in their family structure, such as children growing up and becoming independent, have influenced their work schedules and travel plans.
• Personal Growth and Reflection: The episode highlights the importance of self-awareness and adaptability in managing life's transitions, especially in relation to work and family commitments.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone juggling multiple roles in their personal and professional lives, offering insights into managing change with grace and humor.

That Music!

Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Hosts:

🎤 Marc A. Pitman, CSP – Speaker, coach, and visionary wall demolisher 🎤 Emily Pitman – Systems and spaces designer, master planner

Episode Summary

In this episode of We're Still Figuring It Out, Marc and Emily dive into the complexities of travel as an entrepreneurial family. They reflect on how their experiences of being apart have evolved over time, from their early years of marriage to the present day, and how it has impacted their family dynamics.

With Marc gearing up for his first business trip of the year, they discuss the preparations, emotions, and expectations that come with travel—both as the one leaving and the one staying behind. Emily shares how she approaches Marc's absence, sometimes by tackling home projects (like painting rooms!), and how that perspective has shifted over time.

They also touch on:

• The balance between introvert vs. extrovert needs during travel
• How travel has shaped their children's independence and perspectives
• The impact of Emily's aneurysm on their outlook on time spent apart
• The societal expectations of marriage roles (who wears the power tool belt? 🔨)
• The true meaning of offering help to others 🤝

This episode is a real, honest, and heartwarming discussion on the push and pull of life on the road while keeping a family connected.

Key Takeaways & Highlights

⏳ [00:03] Welcome & Introductions

• Marc welcomes listeners and praises Emily's ability to design "systems and spaces" – a phrase that resonates deeply with her.

⏳ [00:14] The Roles We Play in Marriage

• A humorous look at how Marc and Emily's strengths balance each other – Emily builds structure, Marc breaks barriers (literally and figuratively).
• Who really wears the power tool belt in the family?

⏳ [02:50] Preparing for Travel: A Family Approach

• Marc's upcoming trip sparks a conversation about handling responsibilities before leaving, including car maintenance. 🚗
• Emily's way of preparing: making plans for while he's gone (like a Valentine's Day paint & wine night with their daughter!).

⏳ [06:01] Shifting Perspectives on Time Apart

• Emily reflects on how her approach to Marc's travel has changed over the years—from tackling big home projects to embracing rest and balance.
• The childhood memory that shaped her need to create a fresh, organized space when someone returns from a trip.

⏳ [12:50] The Impact of Emily's Aneurysm

• How a health crisis changed the way they view time spent apart.
• A new appreciation for being intentional with time together and apart.

⏳ [16:37] Raising Kids Who Embrace Travel

• Their children have adopted a sense of independence from years of seeing their parents manage travel.
• The use of shared Google calendars as a way to stay connected even when apart.
• How their past aspirations for international family travel evolved over time.

⏳ [18:19] The Bigger Picture: Travel as a Way of Life

• Marc reflects on his love of exploration and how it fuels his work.
• The idea that travel isn't just about moving locations—it's about growth and change.

⏳ [19:01] Wrapping Up: Travel & Relationships

• The importance of understanding each other's needs in a relationship when one person travels often.
• Why they're still figuring out how to balance independence and togetherness.

Notable Quotes 🗣️

💡 "I design systems and spaces. Marc demolishes walls—both literally and in dreams." – Emily

💡 "I feel named, and I trust you with that." – Marc on Emily's description of his role in their partnership.

💡 "Sometimes, travel isn't just about going somewhere new; it's about how we adapt and what we take from the experience." – Marc

💡 "The world is meant to be explored, and I'm grateful our kids see that." – Emily

Resources & Mentions

🔗 Connect with Marc A. Pitman: www.concordleadershipgroup.com 🔗 Follow Emily Pitman for more on systems & organization: [Social Media Links] 🔗 Recommended Read: "The Surprising Gift of Doubt" – Marc A. Pitman

Join the Conversation!

🎧 Love this episode? Subscribe & leave a review! 💬 What's your approach to travel in your family? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media! 📅 Stay updated on upcoming episodes by following our podcast!

Until next time, we're still figuring it out. ✨

Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Episode Summary

In this heartwarming and insightful episode of "We're Still Figuring It Out," hosts Marc and Emily Pitman explore the transformative power of reframing. With nearly three decades of life partnership, the Pitmans share personal anecdotes, challenges, and triumphs, drawing on their rich life experiences, including transitioning to almost empty-nesters, navigating professional endeavors together, and the subtle art of cat type preference. The discussion delves into how reframing — a concept utilized both in coaching and cognitive behavioral therapy — can offer fresh perspectives and reveal pathways previously unseen, turning obstacles into opportunities.

Timestamps & Highlights

• [00:00:04] - Introduction by Emily Pitman, setting the whimsical tone of recording from an undisclosed planet.
• [00:00:24] - The concept of "reframing" is introduced as the central theme of the episode.
• [00:01:16] - The Pitmans share snippets of their life journey, including their early marriage, adventures across states, jobs, parenting, and pet ownership.
• [00:04:06] - Discussion on working professionally together, specifically on a coach certification program, and the dynamics it brings to their relationship.
• [00:05:43] - Anecdotes about their cats and how their preferences for pet types have remained consistent over the years.
• [00:08:42] - The importance of reframing in coaching and personal growth, with examples from their lives and coaching practices.
• [00:14:29] - Emily discusses the importance of recognizing the narratives we tell ourselves and the power of reframing to challenge these narratives.
• [00:17:49] - A powerful personal reframe shared by Emily, touching on the essence of love and family.
• [00:19:35] - Marc shares a recent profound reframe in his life after being diagnosed with ADHD and revisiting past narratives with a new perspective.

Notable Quotes

• "We were such babies when we got married." - Emily, reflecting on their early life together.
• "Reframing offers more than cliched comfort... It shifts the perspective to show an opportunity or pathway that wasn't apparent minutes before." - Emily, on the essence of reframing.
• "You can't really see the picture when you're in the frame." - Marc, on the importance of external perspectives for personal growth.

Episode Links

• Sign up for Emily's Sprouts Newsletter for more insights.
• Learn more about the ICF Accredited Coach Certification Program led by Marc and Emily.

Closing Thoughts

Through personal stories and shared wisdom, Marc and Emily Pitman illustrate how reframing isn't just a tool for overcoming life's hurdles but a pathway to deeper understanding and personal growth. As we listen to their banter and insights, it's clear that while they may still be figuring it out, their journey of discovery offers invaluable lessons on love, life, and the art of seeing things anew.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of "We're Still Figuring It Out." If you have stories of how reframing has changed your perspective, we'd love to hear from you. Until next time, keep exploring, growing, and embracing the unexpected twists and turns of life.

That Music!

Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Episode Summary:

In this debut episode of the "Marc and Emily" podcast, the hosts introduce themselves and share the inspiration behind starting their podcast. They candidly discuss their uncertainties about the show's name and target audience, emphasizing their commitment to authenticity over perfection. The couple reflects on their 28-year marriage, their professional journeys as coaches, and their shared love for storytelling and personal growth. This episode sets the stage for a series of unscripted, genuine conversations about life, values, and intentional living.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction:

  • Marc and Emily share their reasons for starting a podcast despite not having a clear name or target audience.
  • The hosts recount how they decided to launch the podcast after discussing it during a dinner in New York City.

• Personal Bios:

  • Marc introduces Emily as a creative thinker, leader, co-active certified coach, and his best friend of nearly 29 years.
  • Emily introduces Marc as a leadership coach, author, and the president of the South Carolina chapter of the International Coach Federation.

• Podcast Philosophy:

  • Emphasis on embracing imperfections and learning from the messiness of life.
  • The goal is to create a space where genuine, unscripted conversations can happen, mirroring their dynamic as a couple.

• Life and Work:

  • The couple discusses their professional backgrounds, including Emily's creativity coaching and writing, and Marc's leadership coaching and certification programs.
  • They share anecdotes about their life together, their adventures, and the values they've cultivated over the years.

• Podcast Goals:

  • They aim to produce 8-15 "messy" episodes to find their rhythm before deciding on the level of polish.
  • The podcast is intended for people interested in intentional living and personal growth.

• Future Plans:

  • Plans to invite friends (not formal guests) to share their stories and insights.
  • Encouragement for listeners to interact with them through LinkedIn and suggest topics for future episodes.

• Favorite New Word:

  • Emily shares her excitement about discovering the word "Coddiwomple," which means to travel purposefully toward an unknown destination, encapsulating their podcast journey.

Notable Quotes:

• "We can make a perfect mess of things and discover things in the mess." – Emily
• "It's in the mess that the magic happens." – Marc

Timestamps:

• [00:00] - Introduction and Welcome
• [02:30] - Marc and Emily's Background
• [05:00] - Podcast Philosophy: Embracing Messiness
• [08:00] - Personal Stories and Professional Backgrounds
• [12:00] - Goals for the Podcast
• [15:30] - Future Plans and Listener Engagement
• [18:00] - Closing Remarks

Connect with Marc and Emily:

• LinkedIn:
  • Marc's LinkedIn
  • Emily's LinkedIn

That Music!:

Thank you to Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass

Next Episode Teaser:

In the next episode, Marc and Emily will dive into the story of how they met and the adventures that have shaped their journey together. They promise more unscripted fun and insights into living a purposeful life. Don't miss it!

🎙️ Thank you for joining us on this journey! If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. We appreciate your support! 🎙️

Hosts:

🎤 Marc A. Pitman, CSP – Speaker, coach, and visionary wall demolisher 🎤 Emily Pitman – Systems and spaces designer, master planner

Episode Summary

In this episode of Still Figuring It Out, Emily and Marc Pitman take a deep dive into how budgeting can reflect personal values rather than just being a rigid financial framework. They share insights on shifting perspectives on money, the importance of intentionally categorizing expenses, and how small changes—like renaming budget lines—can make a big impact on financial mindset and family priorities.

Emily also reflects on her experiences post-brain surgery, discussing how it has influenced communication, memory, and even financial decision-making. Meanwhile, Marc explores the deeper emotional layers of budgeting, including the shame often associated with money and the power of reframing finances as a tool to serve life, rather than the other way around.

✨ Whether you love numbers or avoid them at all costs, this episode offers a fresh take on budgeting that prioritizes values over spreadsheets.

⏳ Timestamps & Key Topics:

• [00:00:15] 🏊‍♂️ A leap into the episode (and a nostalgic memory of kids jumping in the pool)
• [00:00:34] 🎙️ Welcome to Still Figuring It Out!
• [00:01:09] 🤔 Brain freezes & word retrieval struggles post-brain surgery
• [00:02:15] 📌 Defining values in finances: a budget should reflect what matters
• [00:03:34] 💸 Shifting from traditional budget categories to values-based spending
• [00:06:00] 🍽️ Making room for "date nights" as a separate budget category
• [00:07:43] 🎭 The importance of hobbies and leisure in financial planning
• [00:09:01] 🏡 From "housing" to "home" – why renaming categories matters
• [00:14:55] 💰 Addressing shame around money and learning to see it as a tool
• [00:20:06] 🎤 Closing reflections: how budgeting serves our values, not vice versa

🔥 Key Takeaways:

✅ Words Matter – Naming budget categories intentionally (e.g., "Health & Fitness" vs. "Medical Expenses") helps shape a positive financial mindset. ✅ Budgeting = Prioritizing What Matters – If coffee outings or hobbies bring joy, they should have a dedicated place in your finances. ✅ Money Should Serve You – Marc reflects on how his father taught him that money should serve us, not the other way around. ✅ Family & Finances Evolve – Just like life, budgets should be adjusted to reflect current values, goals, and realities.

📢 Notable Quotes:

💬 "Budgeting isn't just about setting limits; it's about making space for what matters most." – Emily 💬 "Our budget categories should be a reflection of our family's identity, not just financial obligations." – Marc 💬 "You can see what a person values by looking at their calendar and checkbook." – Marc

💬 Join the Conversation! What budget categories reflect your values? Let us know!

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Thank you Lexi Moreno and Caleb Pitman composing / mixing / mastering / guitar / trumpet; Zoe bass