Women's Money Wisdom

Is the Roth the secret weapon of retirement planning?

Melissa Joy breaks down everything you really need to know about Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s—from how they work and who they’re best for, to why they’ve become a powerful tool for long-term financial freedom.

Whether you're early in your career or already eyeing retirement, understanding the pros and cons of Roth accounts can help you make smarter tax decisions and build wealth that grows—and comes out—tax-free.

Melissa covers:

• ✅ Roth vs. Traditional contributions: what’s the difference?
• 📊 Roth income limits, contribution caps, and how they’ve changed over time
• 🔁 What a Roth conversion is (and when it makes sense)
• 🚪 The “Backdoor” and “Mega Backdoor” Roth strategies
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why Roth accounts can be powerful legacy tools for your heirs
• 🎯 How to build tax diversification into your retirement game plan

This episode clears up common misconceptions and explores the real value of Roths—not just as a savings option, but as a strategic move in your larger financial plan.

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

What if the hardest part of retirement isn’t financial—but emotional?

Retirement isn’t the goalpost we’ve been taught to chase. It’s a major life transition, and according to retirement researcher and financial planner Dan Haylett, many people arrive unprepared—not because the math is wrong, but because they never planned for what comes next.

Melissa Joy, CFP® sits down with Dan—author of The Retirement You Didn’t See Coming and host of the Humans vs Retirement podcast—to explore the emotional landscape of retirement and why most planning misses the mark. Together, they unpack the “Retirement Reinvention Curve,” a three-phase, eight-stage model that reflects the psychological shifts retirees experience.

They go beyond the portfolio to talk about identity loss, the illusion of a permanent vacation, and how to find rhythm, purpose, and joy in life after work.

Whether you're preparing to retire or helping clients make the leap, this conversation will shift your perspective on what truly matters most.

💡 Key Themes Covered:

• Why financial planning should be 70% life and 30% numbers
• The five pillars of a thriving retirement: Purpose, Identity, Relationships, Structure & Wellbeing
• What most people miss when they focus only on "retiring from" instead of "retiring to"
• The emotional curve of retirement—from shock to elation to flourishing
• How to navigate identity loss when the job title goes away
• Tools for couples to align their personal and shared retirement visions
• Why your post-retirement rhythm matters more than your withdrawal rate
• How relationships shape retirement happiness more than wealth

🔗 Resources:

• Dan's website: www.humansvsretirement.com
• Podcast: Humans vs Retirement
• Book: The Retirement You Didn’t See Coming
• Connect with Dan: LinkedIn – Dan Haylett

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

What if your biggest financial setbacks were actually the foundation for your comeback?

Tax professional and financial literacy advocate Michelle Campbell joins Melissa Joy, CFP® for a powerful conversation on shame-free money management, taking control of your financial future, and rising from the ashes—literally.

Michelle shares her journey from five evictions and over $500K in debt to becoming an IRS-enrolled agent, nonprofit founder (Hashtag Stability), and author of the memoir Bluebird. With honesty and heart, she reveals how facing her numbers changed everything—and how she now helps others do the same.

Together, they unpack the emotional weight of debt, the myths that keep people stuck, and how understanding tax law can be a radical act of empowerment—especially for women and those overlooked by traditional financial systems.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt behind, buried by shame, or unsure where to start. Spoiler alert: the first step is just looking.

💡 Key Themes Covered:

• Getting honest: Why knowing your numbers is the first step to freedom
• Breaking the silence around debt, shame, and financial trauma
• The biggest myths about budgeting, credit, and investing (and what’s actually true)
• What to know about debt collectors, credit reports, and disputing errors
• Why tax literacy is a superpower—especially for business owners
• How Michelle uses her story to educate and advocate through Hashtag Stability
• Why success isn’t about having it all—it’s about understanding what you actually want

Connect with Michelle: 

ByMichelleCampbell.com

Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/bluebirdmemoir/

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

Summer often invites us to pack in travel, events, and to-do lists—but what if the most powerful move you could make right now is to slow down?

In this solo episode, Melissa Joy, CFP®, reflects on her own slower-paced Michigan summer and the meaningful lessons it’s brought—about happiness, well-being, money, and the beauty of doing less with more intention. Drawing inspiration from the slow living and slow money movements, Melissa shares personal stories, client experiences, and practical ideas for embracing a slower rhythm in both your financial life and everyday choices.

Whether you're managing a hectic calendar or simply trying to spend more intentionally, this conversation offers a grounding reminder: small joys and deliberate choices add up to a truly rich life.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why slowing down can increase your happiness, contentment, and financial clarity
• How the slow money movement parallels the principles of long-term investing and sustainable living
• Why “less but better” spending habits often lead to greater satisfaction
• How to audit your subscriptions, triage financial decisions, and adopt a summer spending pause
• The link between gratitude, joy, and long-term financial success
• Real-life strategies to savor the season without overspending

Melissa also shares a must-read article from The New York Times on finding “microjoys” in daily life—a beautiful reminder that happiness doesn’t always require a major overhaul.

📩 Tiny Little Joys: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/27/well/happiness-positivity-tiny-little-joys.html?unlocked_article_code=1.S08.MfIZ.W_os-KboW4X-&smid=url-share

Slow Money Movement: https://verifiedinvesting.com/blogs/education/the-slow-money-movement-long-term-investing-in-a-fast-paced-world

#WomensMoneyWisdom #SlowMoney #FinancialWellness #MindfulSpending #JoyInTheLittleThings #IntentionalLiving

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

In this special solo episode, Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA, breaks down the newly passed One Big, Beautiful Bill Act—yes, that’s really the name! 

Signed into law on July 4th, this sweeping piece of legislation (affectionately nicknamed “OB3”) will impact everything from your tax brackets to your charitable deductions, and much more in between. 

Whether you’re a retiree, parent, small business owner, or high earner, Melissa walks through what’s changing, what’s staying, and what you need to know to navigate the financial road ahead.

⚖️ Key Topics Covered:

• 🧾 Tax Brackets & Deductions: 2017 rates are now made “permanent,” with small tweaks and no sunset provisions—yet.
• 👵🏽 Seniors Win Big: A new $6,000 deduction and reduced taxation on Social Security (but only for four years…for now).
• 👶🏽 Families with Kids: Increased child tax credit and the introduction of a new “Trump Account” for minors.
• 🏠 Homeowners & Itemizers: Mortgage interest deduction remains capped at $750K—but now includes mortgage insurance premiums.
• 💸 SALTs Revived: The state and local tax deduction cap is increased to $40,000 for many, offering potential relief for homeowners in high-tax states.
• 🍽️ Tipped & Hourly Workers: Temporary deductions for tips and overtime income, subject to income thresholds.
• 🚗 New Car Loan Deduction: But only for U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased after 2024 and under strict income limits.
• 🌱 Clean Energy Credits: Act fast—many are phasing out earlier than expected.
• 🏛️ Estate & AMT Revisions: Estate tax exemptions rise to $15M per person in 2026, and AMT thresholds shift downward.
• 👩🏽‍💼 Small Business Owners: Expanded access to deductions like Section 179, QBI (199A), family leave credits, and retirement plan incentives.
• 🎓 Student Loans & 529s: Parent PLUS loans capped; 529 plans expanded for apprenticeships, therapy, and some non-degree programs.

📬 Resources Mentioned:

• Melissa’s deep-dive blog post on OB3 

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

What if success didn’t have to come with stress, hustle, and emotional burnout? Performance coach Brandi Hudson joins Melissa Joy to share how high-achievers can shift from chasing external validation to building a life rooted in purpose, clarity, and peace.

Brandy introduces her powerful BASE framework—Beliefs, Alignment, Self-Awareness, and Emotional Resilience—a mindset map for those ready to evolve from achievement to mastery. Together, they explore the inner work it takes to untangle limiting beliefs, align your desires with your emotions, and build true emotional resilience so that success actually feels successful.

This conversation is for the doers, the leaders, the “check-the-box” professionals who suspect there’s more waiting on the other side of the hustle.

💡 Key Themes Covered:

• Rethinking success: Why accomplishments alone don't guarantee fulfillment
• How subconscious beliefs quietly shape your relationship with money, health, and love
• The difference between wanting money and understanding what you actually want it for
• Why emotional resilience is the ultimate leadership skill
• Tools to align your internal world with your external goals

Connect with Brandi Hudson

🔗 Facebook: facebook.com/hibrandihudson
📸 Instagram: @brandibhudson
▶️ YouTube: @brandibhudson
🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @brandibhudson
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandibhudson

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

Ever wonder what separates thriving CEOs from those who struggle? 

The secret isn't just business savvy—it's mindset. This compelling conversation with Megan Schwan, founder of Sidekick Accounting Services, explores how CEO-level thinking can radically improve both your business and your personal finances.

As a single mom and successful entrepreneur with over 11 years of experience, Megan shares her journey from surviving to thriving. She explains how transitioning from reactive, task-based management to intentional, strategic leadership transformed her business and life. This mindset shift is equally powerful when applied to personal finances.

Megan also emphasizes the power of embracing your financial data. Avoiding your numbers may feel safer, but regularly reviewing them is the key to clarity and confidence. Her use of the Profit First methodology ensures you pay yourself first and run a business—or a household—that works for you.

We explore why outsourcing isn’t a sign of failure, but a strategic tool for growth. Whether it's hiring in your business or getting help at home, letting go of the guilt around asking for support can unlock a new level of financial and emotional well-being.

Whether you're a business owner, managing household finances, or juggling both, this episode delivers real, relatable insights to help you become the CEO of your money. Tune in for actionable tips, powerful mindset shifts, and a reminder that financial leadership starts with you.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting from doing the work to strategic thinking changes everything
• Setting boundaries protects your energy and your priorities
• Financial data is a tool for empowerment, not something to avoid
• Profit First helps ensure you prioritize your own pay
• Delegation and outsourcing free up space for growth
• Grace and small wins help maintain long-term financial momentum
• Vulnerability and support-seeking are strengths in any financial journey

If you found value in this episode, please share it with a friend or leave us a review. 

Connect With Megan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmschwan/

https://www.instagram.com/mompreneurof4/

https://www.facebook.com/sidekickaccounting

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

Ever feel like some financial "truths" don't quite add up? In this episode of Women's Money Wisdom, Melissa Joy, CFP®, teams up with colleague Alexa Kane, CFP®, for a candid conversation challenging some of the most widely accepted (but often unexamined) money beliefs.

🔍 What they unpack:

• The Hidden Costs of Buy Now, Pay Later:
  From fast food to impulse buys, installment payment apps are everywhere—but at what cost? Melissa and Alexa reveal how these “convenient” options can become debt traps, especially for younger consumers.
• The Case Against Aging in Place:
  It’s a common goal—but is it always the best one? Learn why staying in your home might not be ideal and how retirement communities could offer more social, emotional, and physical support in the long run.

💬 Expect real stories, smart analysis, and bold perspectives that just might shift your thinking. Plus, a preview of what’s next: a hot take on life insurance as an investment.

🎧 Listen now and consider:

• Are your financial choices based on habit—or strategy?
• Could your assumptions about aging be holding you back?
• Who needs to hear this? Forward it to a friend.

📍Resources and more: pearlplan.com

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

Ever dreamed of owning a business but felt overwhelmed by starting from scratch?
Franchising might be the solution you didn’t know you needed—offering the independence of entrepreneurship with the structure and support of an established brand.

Melissa Joy, CFP® is joined by husband-and-wife team Alex and Julie Roberts to explore the world of modern franchise ownership. With over two decades of industry experience, Alex is the founder of The Franchise Playmaker, helping professionals navigate over 4,000 franchise options to find the right fit. Julie is the founder of Kindling Creative and brings her marketing savvy to their newest venture: opening The Milkshake Factory in Ann Arbor.

From surprising truths about franchise selection to behind-the-scenes insights into local marketing and revenue strategy, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways—especially for professionals looking to transition out of corporate roles into entrepreneurship.

Key Highlights:

• Why most franchise owners end up choosing a brand they never expected
• How franchise consultants work like realtors to guide the process
• The rise of franchising among 45–55 year-olds seeking more control
• What “validation” means in the franchise world—and why it’s essential
• Creative marketing tactics from Julie, including local partnerships and community events
• The realities of ownership: “There’s no such thing as absentee franchising”

Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Alex: franchiseplaymaker.com
• Follow their journey IG: @milkshakefactorya2

This episode is for anyone exploring entrepreneurship, looking for a career pivot, or simply curious about how franchising really works—beyond the buzzwords.

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...

What happens when financial advisors ignore half their potential clients?
They miss out on a trillion-dollar opportunity.

This compelling conversation with Cary Carbonaro, CFP® and author of Women and Wealth, explores how the financial services industry has consistently overlooked women—and what needs to change. As Cary puts it, “Financial services is the least sympathetic to women, but the one that has the most to gain if they get it right.”

We explore why 70–80% of women leave their financial advisors after the death of a spouse (hint: it’s not because they want to), and how common industry missteps—like unconscious bias, excessive jargon, and dismissing women’s priorities—push female clients away. Cary also unpacks key emotional and financial concerns, including the “bag lady fear” that affects over 50% of women regardless of net worth, and why values-based financial planning matters more than ever.

By 2030, women are expected to control two-thirds of the nation’s wealth—an estimated $30 trillion—driven by increased longevity, entrepreneurship, “gray divorce,” and rising numbers of female breadwinners. This shift presents a massive opportunity for advisors who are willing to evolve.

Whether you're a woman taking charge of your finances, someone who wants to support the women in your life, or a financial professional aiming to create a more inclusive practice, this conversation offers powerful insights into why empathy, education, and intentionality lead to stronger financial outcomes for all.

Key Themes:

• How the industry has failed women—and how it can do better
• The emotional drivers behind women’s financial decisions
• Why women often switch advisors after major life events
• The trillion-dollar wealth transfer and what it means for the future
• Creating financial plans that prioritize purpose, not just performance

Connect with Cary Carbonaro
Website: https://carycarbonaro.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carycarbonarocfp/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccarbonaro
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carycarbonaro/ https://x.com/CaryCarbonaro

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only.  No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https...