Episodes

Send a text Most emergencies cost more than $1,000. In this episode, Jessica and Brandon break down what a properly funded emergency fund actually looks like and why it’s one of the first steps in any financial plan. We cover: What counts as a true emergencyHow to calculate 6 to 12 months of expensesWhy expenses matter more than incomeWhere to keep your emergency fundWhy you shouldn’t invest itHow to automate your savingsWhat to do if you feel behindWhether you’re in a volatile industry, a du...

Send a text Tax season is here, and if you're getting a refund, this episode is for you. Jessica and Brandon break down how to use your tax refund strategically instead of treating it like random bonus money. They unpack the “free loan to the government” debate, explain why some people intentionally aim for a large refund, and walk through practical ways to put that money to work. Inside this episode: How to think about tax refunds the right wayEmergency funds and debt payoff prioritiesPlanni...

Send a text We’ve all done it. Chosen the cheapest option and told ourselves we were being smart. But sometimes cheap ends up being expensive. In this episode, Jessica and Brandon break down the difference between price and value and why understanding that distinction can completely change the way you spend, save, and invest. We share real-life examples, including: When “budget” services backfireThe hidden cost of uninvested retirement accountsWhy professional expertise often pays for itselfH...

Send us a text If you've ever been confused about mutual funds, ETFs, and individual stocks, this episode is your beginner-friendly breakdown. Jessica and Brandon cut through the noise to explain what each investment type really is, how they work, and how to choose what’s right for your goals. From 401(k)s to robo-advisors to picking your own stocks, this episode helps you avoid costly mistakes and invest with clarity. You’ll learn: The pros and cons of mutual funds, ETFs, and stocksHow fees ...

Send us a text A woman finds out she’s still the beneficiary on her ex-husband’s life insurance policy, years after their divorce. He’s since remarried and had a child. When he passes away unexpectedly, she’s notified she’ll receive $100,000. Now the new wife is asking for the money… for their child. In this episode, Jessica and Brandon break down the emotional, financial, and legal sides of this viral dilemma. You’ll hear: Why updating your beneficiaries is crucialWhether it’s morally wrong ...

Send us a text Are you managing money together, or living in two separate financial worlds? In this episode, Jessica and Brandon get real about a problem nearly every couple faces: one partner handling finances while the other stays out of the loop. That disconnect causes confusion, stress, and even resentment. We break down: Why this common imbalance happensThe hidden risks of not sharing financial insightHow Monarch Money can change the way you see and plan your money togetherReal life wins...

Financial planning isn’t a one-size-fits-all game. Life happens in seasons, and your money should move with them. In this episode, Jessica and Brandon break down the 4 major financial seasons, Building, Stability, Stretch, and Harvest, and help you identify which one you’re in right now. We’re talking real-life money shifts, mindset changes, and how to give yourself grace when your financial plan needs to adapt. Whether you're stacking cash, raising kids, recovering from setbacks, or preparing...

Start the new year off right with a clear, actionable financial plan. In this episode, Jessica and Brandon walk you through five key money moves to make in January, from setting financial goals and reviewing your budget to building a debt payoff strategy and automating your savings. Whether you're managing money solo or with a partner, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take control of your finances and build wealth in 2026. What You'll Learn: How to set measurable, achie...