The Budget Brainiac Podcast

Curious about custodial brokerage accounts, but not clear on the rules and tax considerations? In this episode, we sought to answer this question and want to share with you what we found on:

-Unearned income thresholds

-Who owns the tax filing/tax obligation

-The "Kiddie Tax" thresholds

Landing your first professional job can feel like a numbers game - but getting to the right opportunity takes more than submitting applications. In this episode, I share lessons from my own career on how to be resourceful, get yourself in the door, stand out in an interview, and communicate the potential you bring to an employer. Whether you meet every qualification or not, the goal is simple: give someone a reason to take a chance on you and get you to the one. 

What are Trump Accounts, how do they work, and where might they fit into a family’s broader financial plan? 

I recently hit the 10-year milestone in my career, and it got me thinking about the lessons I’ve learned - not just about work, but about money, wealth, and building a purpose-aligned life.

Your early career can have an outsized impact on your financial future. The industry and role you choose can shape your earning potential, the right career fit can make long-term success more likely, and the financial habits you develop early can compound for decades.

Budgeting and tracking your net worth are great habits - but they don't always tell you whether you're truly making financial progress. In this episode, I share five simple financial ratios that have transformed the way I evaluate my own finances. From savings rate to debt-to-assets and liquidity, these metrics provide a clearer picture of your financial health and can help you make smarter money decisions over time. 

Having trouble deciding between the Florida Prepaid and 529 Investment Account options? Listen in for a detailed breakdown, and for tips to help your family decide.