What No One Taught Us

You’re NOT behind. Your 20s come with one financial advantage you can’t buy more of later: time. In this episode, we’re talking about five money moves you can make now to put that time to work, build better habits, and give future you a lot more options.

You asked, I answered! In this Q&A episode, we’re talking about the money questions that actually come up in your 20s and 30s. From affording vacations without feeling guilty and managing money as a couple to 401(k)s, Roth vs. Traditional contributions, rebalancing your investments, and even backdoor Roths.

You got a raise or bonus, but now what? Before the extra money disappears into your everyday spending, it’s time for a little responsible girl math.

In this episode, we’re talking about lifestyle creep, the 50% raise rule, and how to balance enjoying your money today with using it to build your future.

In this episode, you'll learn how employer life insurance works, when your coverage is enough, when you may need more, and the mistakes you don't want to make with your policy. A few minutes now could save your loved ones a lot of stress later.

Got stock options, RSUs, or an ESPP? Before you make a decision that could cost you thousands in taxes, listen to this episode. We'll break down how each type of equity compensation works, what you actually own, and what to think about before you sell.Follow along on Instagram @whatnoonetaughtus for more simple, practical personal finance tips.

Switched jobs? Your 401(k) has a decision to make. In this episode, we cover exactly what happens to your retirement account when you leave an employer, the pros and cons of each option, and how to complete a rollover without triggering unnecessary taxes or penalties. If you've ever wondered whether to leave it, move it, roll it over, or cash it out (please don't!), this episode is for you.

In my first-ever guest episode, I'm joined by one of my best friends, Elaine Do, to talk about her journey from uncertain college graduate to first-time homeowner before the age of 25. We dive into the mindset shift that transformed her relationship with money, how she intentionally saved for a home while still enjoying life in her 20s, and what the homebuying process actually looked like from start to finish. Whether you're dreaming of buying a home someday or simply looking to build confidence with your finances, this conversation is full of practical advice and oh-so-many inspiring tid bits.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) might be the most underrated financial tool available, and in this episode, I'm explaining exactly why.

If you've ever thought of an HSA as just a way to pay for doctor visits, think again. I'm breaking down what an HSA is, who qualifies, and why financial planners often call it the only account with a true "triple tax advantage."

We'll cover:

• How HSAs can lower your taxes today
• Why the money grows tax-free
• The little-known reimbursement strategy that can turn your HSA into a powerful retirement tool
• The difference between using your HSA for current medical expenses versus long-term investing
• How I personally use my HSA and why it's become a key part of my financial plan

Whether you're enrolled in a high-deductible health plan already or just exploring your benefits options, this episode will help you understand why an HSA may be one of the smartest accounts you can add to your financial toolkit.

Follow along on Instagram @whatnoonetaughtus for more personal finance education and behind-the-scenes content.

Open enrollment season is approaching, and somehow health insurance terms still sound like they were designed to confuse us on purpose. Don't panic!!

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to actually choose the right health insurance plan in plain English. We cover deductibles, copays, HMOs vs. PPOs, high-deductible health plans, HSAs, and how to think through what plan actually makes sense for your life and budget.

Whether you’re picking benefits for the first time, getting off your parents’ insurance soon, or just tired of choosing a plan at random every year, this episode will help you feel way more confident heading into open enrollment.

On this episode of WNOTU we’re breaking down your 401(k), because “just contribute to it” is not enough information.

We break down:

• how employer matching actually works
• how much you should be contributing
• Roth vs. pre-tax contributions
• and how to choose investments without feeling overwhelmed

If you’ve ever opened your 401(k) portal and immediately wanted to close the tab… this episode is for you.

The information in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as financial advice. I’m a Certified Financial Planner™, but I’m not your planner- so please consult a professional who knows yourunique situation before making any financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Viewsexpressed are my own and do not reflect the views of Bethesda Financial Advisors, LLC.