Growing Money with Sean Trace

In this episode I sit down with CFP Mando Sallavanti III to talk practical money rules for entrepreneurs and high earners. Mando explains why separating business and personal finances matters, why most founders need a bookkeeper and CPA, and how to keep 1 to 3 months of operating expenses in your business account. We dig into hiring for leverage, the accumulation versus distribution mindset, and Mando’s bucket and reservoir systems that make saving automatic while giving you permission to spend. If you want clear cash flow habits, a plan to protect your income, and real steps to turn wealth into freedom, this one is for you.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Brendan Frazier, the Chief Behavioral Officer at RFG Advisory, to explore the human side of money. We dig into why smart, successful people still make emotional decisions, how loss aversion quietly drives our choices, and why simple, consistent actions often beat complex plans. I share my own story about facing financial fears, the power of awareness and mindfulness, and how a good planner can be that flashlight in a dark basement. Brendan breaks down practical ways to overcome money avoidance, build momentum with tiny steps, and reshape identity through consistent wins. We talk about compounding, community, and why money is a tool to fund a meaningful life, not the finish line. If you want clear next steps and a calmer relationship with money, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, I sit down with Bernie Youngblood, a self-described “serial entrepreneur by accident,” to explore the real meaning of wealth. We dive deep into how money can be both a tool and a gift, why health and relationships matter more than a bank balance, and how success means little if you don’t lift others along the way. We share stories from Costa Rica, lessons from MrBeast’s hometown loyalty, and the dangers of chasing trends without purpose. From purpose-driven finance to filling your cup by pouring love into others, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your relationship with money, and with the people around you.

Join me for a powerful conversation with Aja Evans, financial therapist and author of Feel Good Finance. We unpack the deep connection between money and emotions, exploring how our beliefs and habits shape our financial lives. Aja opens up about her personal journey, revealing what led her to help others overcome money anxiety and build healthier financial habits. Together, we dig into the psychology of financial wellness, how to break free from generational money patterns, and practical ways to create open, honest conversations about money.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with my friend Stephen Heath to talk about something a little different, but incredibly important—the psychology behind how we think about money. We explore a concept called “money scripts,” which are the unconscious beliefs we form early in life that shape our financial decisions as adults.We share some pretty funny and personal stories, from finding a Rolex at the bottom of a pool to the heartbreak of giving back a money clip full of cash. Stephen opens up about his family’s legacy of wealth and how one decision led to generations of financial difference. I talk about my own upbringing, the influence of conservative views on money, and how those beliefs still show up in my life today.We break down the four core money scripts: money avoidance, money worship, money status, and money vigilance. And as we talked, we realized something was missing, so we introduced a fifth one—money balance. Because the truth is, most of us carry a mix of all these scripts, and the goal should not be perfection, but awareness and balance.This conversation is part financial therapy, part storytelling, and part good old-fashioned real talk. If you have ever felt weird about money, struggled to spend it, save it, or make peace with it, I think this episode will really hit home.

In this heartfelt episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial planner Hamilton Brandenburg to talk about one of the biggest transitions many people face, retirement. Hamilton shares how he helps middle-class Americans not only manage their money but also navigate the emotional and psychological shifts that come with stepping away from a career.We dive into powerful topics like how to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of freedom, why retirement planning is more about your values than your portfolio, and how to help your kids start building a life that truly matters.We also touch on Stoic wisdom, family legacy, financial psychology, and how even wealth can become a burden if you don’t approach it with intention. This isn’t just a conversation about money, it’s a masterclass in designing a meaningful life.

In this empowering episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with money coach Jason Madsen to explore how Christian families can break free from the financial stress cycle. We talk about creating emotional stability, building better habits, and igniting a long term vision for your future. Jason and I dive into how small daily choices, like grabbing that “after work burrito,” can shape your financial destiny. We also unpack why having a strong why fuels consistency and how embracing flexibility can open the door to unexpected growth.We explore the Ramsey Baby Steps, mindset shifts around abundance, and how resilience, faith, and strategy can transform your money story. Whether you are stuck in a financial rut or ready to level up, this episode brings real talk, inspiring stories, and practical tools to help you grow your money and your mindset.

In this episode, I sat down with Professor Stephen Heath to finally unpack all the major types of budgets, because let’s be real, budgeting can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. We broke down everything from zero-based budgeting and the 50/30/20 rule to the pay-yourself-first method, the anti-budget, envelope system, and values-based budgeting.We talked about how to match your budget to your life stage, whether you’re a student, a parent, someone paying off debt, or just trying to get more intentional with your money. For me, the 50/30/20 approach really clicked. Steve’s a fan of zero-based budgeting, but even he admits it’s not for everyone.There were some laughs, some honest moments (yes, I compared budgeting to giving kids candy), and a whole lot of practical advice. If you’ve ever felt stuck or confused when it comes to managing money, this episode is your roadmap.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Certified Financial Planner Nate Hoskin shares a powerful perspective on how to spend money without regret. He explores the often overlooked emotional side of finance and explains why saving too much can actually rob you of joy. Nate dives into the Rule of 72 to show the real opportunity cost of spending and introduces the idea that spending money is a skill, just like saving. He and Sean discuss the impact of scarcity mindsets, the importance of aligning money with your personal values, and how generosity can lead to unexpected rewards. They also talk about the balance between FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) goals and actually enjoying life along the way. With stories about meaningful life experiences, side hustles, and mindset shifts, this episode is a thoughtful and inspiring guide to building financial freedom with intention and heart.

In this episode of Money School, I’m back with the always insightful Prof. Steve Heath, and we go deep into a surprisingly relatable topic — lifestyle creep. We unpack how even small upgrades, like a new phone or a fancy dinner, can silently sabotage your financial goals. Using everything from Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible stunts to Christian Bale’s old truck, we explore how discipline, priorities, and self-awareness are the real keys to building wealth. You’ll learn how to set lifestyle caps, avoid impulse spending, and finally start building toward your version of “F*** You Money.”

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Dr. Megan McCoy, a financial therapist and professor at Kansas State University, for a deep dive into the emotional and psychological roots of our money behaviors. We talk about how childhood memories, relationship dynamics, and money scripts shape our financial decisions, often without us even realizing it. Dr. McCoy opens up about the power of empathy, the importance of having honest conversations about money in relationships and parenting, and how planning finances around shared goals can actually bring people closer. We also explore topics like charitable giving, financial shame, and ways to move from avoidance to intentional wealth-building. This episode is filled with humor, vulnerability, and real-world advice to help you see money not just as dollars and cents, but as a reflection of your dreams, your fears, and your potential to grow.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sat down with the incredible Nishaea Richardson, also known as the Play Money Coach. We went deep into the emotional and mindset side of money — the real stuff that most people avoid talking about. From getting stuck in a cycle of “comfortable misery” to learning how to set powerful financial boundaries, Nishaea shares her journey of going from paycheck-to-paycheck to financial freedom.We talked about what it means to shift your money mindset, how to stop living for other people’s approval, and why budgeting isn’t a punishment, but a roadmap to a better life. I shared some personal stories too — from Minecraft lessons with my daughter to conversations about saying no to financial vampires. This conversation was honest, funny, emotional, and packed with practical takeaways. If you’re ready to stop just surviving and start thriving financially, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I’m back with the one and only Professor Steve Heath for another round of Money School and this time we’re diving into budgeting. But not the boring kind. Prof. Heath kicks things off with one of the wildest stories I’ve ever heard (yes, it involves a trunk and a concert) to explain how most people handle money: unconsciously, passively, and sometimes disastrously.We break down the budgeting triangle: money in, money out, and what’s left. Along the way, we talk about mindset shifts, the trap of lifestyle creep, why "50 percent off" can still mean broke, and how to actually use your income to build a life you love. This isn’t just about cutting back. It’s about being intentional, making smart choices, and aligning your spending with your goals. Whether you're a college student, creative, or parent like me, this episode is packed with laughs, real talk, and tools you can use right now.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial coach Angie Carlson to explore the tools couples need to overcome money miscommunication, break free from guilt, and build a real financial partnership. Angie and I dive into how childhood money stories shape our behavior as adults, why so many couples feel like they’re rowing in circles, and how to shift from blame to teamwork. Drawing from her personal journey and her Agree & Achieve coaching method, Angie shares powerful, practical advice for navigating financial stress, making decisions together, and building wealth—without shame.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I had an amazing conversation with Chris Harcksen-Lucero, a flight paramedic and financial coach with a really unique story. We talked about how resilience isn't just important in life — it's critical for your finances too. Chris shared how his background in emergency response shaped the way he thinks about money, mindset, and bouncing back from challenges. We dove into how the stories we tell ourselves about money can either hold us back or help us grow, why an abundance mindset is so important, and how facing a little bit of struggle can actually make you financially stronger. This episode is packed with insights and real-world advice for anyone looking to build financial resilience and a stronger future.

What if managing your money felt less like chaos and more like following a GPS?In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial educator Professor Steve Heath to talk about why so many people feel overwhelmed by money. It is not because we are lazy or careless. It is because no one ever handed us a roadmap.We dive into everything from my own parenting mishaps (including 45 pages of unnecessary math homework) to powerful real-life analogies about budgeting, credit cards, and even cookies.Professor Heath shares why time is your biggest financial superpower, how budgeting does not have to be boring, and what actually matters when you are just getting started. Whether you are Gen Z, a stressed-out parent, or just trying to feel more in control of your money, this one is for you.

What if the only thing standing between you and financial freedom… is your mindset?In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Derrick Kinney, former financial advisor, author, and founder of the Good Money Framework, to talk about what it really takes to go from middle class to millionaire.We dive into the mindset shifts that changed Derrick’s life, the power of betting on yourself, how to ask for (and get) a raise, why perfection is the enemy of wealth, and what working moms can teach us all about time and money.Derrick also shares his 5 step Millionaire Money Map, a system that is helping people everywhere unlock their income potential and tie their money to a deeper sense of purpose.If you have ever felt stuck or like you are worth more than your current paycheck, this one is for you.

In this first episode of Money School, I sit down with my friend and co-host, Professor Steve Heath, to talk about why we’re starting this journey together. Steve shares his powerful story—from dropping out of school, addiction, and jail time to becoming a successful accounting professor and author of a personal finance textbook. I open up about my own struggles with debt, career setbacks, and the pressure to provide for my family while chasing a dream that hasn’t fully paid off yet.This isn’t your typical personal finance podcast. We’re not here to preach or judge—we’re here to be honest, tell real stories, and create a space where people can actually learn about money without feeling ashamed. If you've ever felt behind or lost when it comes to finances, you're not alone. This is where we start. Welcome to Money School.

In this powerful episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with David Houston, a Ramsey Preferred financial coach, to unpack the truth about debt, budgeting, and building a strong financial foundation. From his personal stories about student loans and seven-figure debt to my own adventures teaching my daughter about money through chickens and eggs, this conversation is full of heart, humor, and real-life wisdom. Whether you're 18 or 58, David shares practical tools and mindset shifts that can help you reclaim your financial future—one simple step at a time.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sat down with my good friend Tim Craven, a Nashville-based real estate agent and musician, to dig into the basics of real estate investing. We talked about why buying a home is one of the smartest ways to build wealth, especially compared to renting. Tim broke down essential real estate concepts—like escrow, down payments, PMI, and appraisal gaps—in a super clear and practical way. We also explored how owning a home forces you to save, the importance of starting small, and how to make smart financial decisions when entering the housing market. This episode is packed with value for anyone thinking about buying property or just wanting to understand real estate better.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with the incredible Stephen Heath—professor, CPA, and all-around financial wisdom dropper—to talk about the money lessons no one ever taught us. We dive into everything from how college can either be a launching pad or a financial trap, to why your major might not matter nearly as much as how you use your time in school.Stephen shares wild stories from his past career in litigation consulting—like valuing Snoop Dogg’s album art and taking Pitbull to court—and how he traded all that in for a meaningful life teaching at a community college. We talk about what really matters when it comes to money: habits, mindset, and just getting started—even if you don’t know what you’re doing yet.This conversation is packed with real talk, laughs, and the kind of clarity I wish I had in my 20s. Whether you're a student, a parent, or just someone trying to figure it out, there’s something in here for you.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Dori Zinn, a seasoned personal finance journalist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN, and more. Dori shares her personal journey with money, from ignoring student loans to becoming a finance writer helping others navigate their financial future. We discuss why money is such a taboo topic, the importance of financial literacy, and the power of asking the right questions. Whether you're a parent teaching your kids about money, a freelancer trying to budget, or just someone looking to take control of your finances, this episode is full of practical insights, real-life lessons, and empowering mindset shifts to help you grow your money.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Kole Owen, the 22-year-old founder of Unburied Talents Financial Coaching and Career Coaching. Kole shares his personal journey into finance, which started when he got married and realized just how little he knew about managing money. That realization led him down a deep rabbit hole of financial literacy, where he discovered a huge gap in knowledge among young professionals. This inspired him to start coaching others and helping them build better financial futures.We dive into some critical topics, including:Why Gen Z needs financial education early and how being young in the finance space gives Kole a unique advantage.The most common money mistakes young professionals make, like living paycheck to paycheck and not taking full advantage of savings opportunities.The importance of early investing—why opening a Roth IRA as soon as you start earning can be a game-changer.The dangers of unintentional career choices—why college students need to research earning potential before choosing a major and how “holding over” jobs can trap people for longer than they expect.The power of personal branding—how confidence, networking, and understanding perception can completely shift career success.The mindset shift needed for financial freedom, including budgeting strategies and the importance of finding a financial system that actually works for you.The "Ikigai" framework—how aligning passion, skill, societal need, and financial sustainability can lead to a fulfilling career.Why community matters in personal finance—Kole emphasizes how crucial it is to find people to talk about money with, whether that’s a spouse, friends, or mentors.Actionable financial steps young professionals can take today, like zero-based budgeting, building a personal brand, and creating multiple income streams.Kole also shares some of his top book recommendations, including The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel and The Millionaire Mission by Brian Preston.We wrap up the episode with a message of hope: No matter where you are in your financial journey, it’s never too late to take control, adjust your course, and work toward long-term financial success.This is a powerful conversation packed with insights—don’t miss it!

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace I sit down with Jesse Ernst a financial coach and business owner to talk about financial freedom budgeting and the importance of being intentional with money. Jesse shares his journey of building two businesses Claire’s Creperie and Ernst Financial Solutions and how he and his wife overcame financial challenges including paying off their mortgage in just over seven years.We dive into the importance of setting financial goals how debt impacts personal freedom and practical strategies for achieving financial independence. Jesse breaks down the snowball method for paying off debt the power of delayed gratification and how cutting unnecessary expenses can accelerate financial growth. He also shares insights on increasing income leveraging skills to build wealth and making smart spending decisions that align with personal values.Together we explore the psychology of money why financial literacy should start early and how even simple financial habits like saving and budgeting can completely transform your financial future. We wrap up with a powerful reflection on what true financial freedom looks like and how small intentional steps can lead to a life of choice and security.

In this inspiring episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Samantha Claudio, a financial coach and founder of Claudio Financial. Samantha opens up about her journey from $20,000 in debt to financial freedom and how her struggles with health and finances sparked her passion for helping others escape the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. Together, we dive into the power of mindset, the importance of transparency, and practical strategies for building better financial habits. We discuss topics like budgeting (or "monthly spending plans"), tackling convenience spending, and finding your "why" to stay motivated. Whether you're just starting out on your financial journey or looking for new tools to level up, this episode is filled with actionable advice and relatable stories to inspire change.

In this insightful episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Brad Klontz, a financial psychologist and author of Start Thinking Rich. Dr. Brad shared his personal journey of overcoming destructive financial behaviors and becoming a leading expert in financial psychology. Together, we explored the emotional and psychological roots of financial habits, such as hoarding, spending, and investing, and how trauma and family history shape these behaviors. We discussed practical ways to reframe money management, emphasizing the importance of financial education for both kids and adults. Dr. Brad and I also shared personal stories, including how we’re teaching our own children the value of money through creative methods like storytelling and personal finance games.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Sean is joined by Dr. Maria Nemeth, celebrated author of The Energy of Money and founder of the Academy for Coaching Excellence. Together, they dive into the concept of money as energy, exploring how financial habits reflect and influence every aspect of life. Dr. Maria shares her six forms of energy, the role of balance in achieving life’s goals, and the transformative power of starting small. Sean and Dr. Maria also discuss the importance of aligning actions with values to live without regret and introduce practical tools, like budgeting and mindset shifts, to create financial abundance. Packed with inspiration and actionable advice, this conversation is a roadmap to unlocking your full potential.

In this episode, we dive into Chapter 2 of my Zombie Personal Finance series: Budgeting Basics for Limited Resources or Surviving on a Budget. Join me as I take you into a zombie apocalypse scenario where budgeting becomes a literal life-saving skill. Follow Ailani as she faces survival challenges, learns to ration her resources, and discovers the importance of planning for emergencies. Whether you're preparing for the end of the world or just trying to make your paycheck last, this episode has lessons for everyone. Don't forget to create your own "ration plan" and share your experience in the comments!

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, we’re joined by Diana Perkins, a seasoned finance expert and trader with over 20 years of experience. Diana’s mission is to make trading and investing accessible for everyone—no matter your background or experience level. Together, we dive into the fundamentals of trading, including how to take your first steps, create and stick to a trading plan, and manage risk effectively. Diana also shares insights into the role of emotional discipline and mindset in financial success, along with strategies to navigate the markets with confidence. Plus, we explore how diversity in trading is reshaping the financial landscape and why understanding your unique trading personality is key to achieving your goals. This conversation is packed with actionable tips and inspiration to help you grow your money and expand your financial knowledge. Learn More from Diana:Beginner's Guide to Smart Investing: Download Diana's free guide to get started! tradingwithdiana.com/guideNew Trader Program: From novice to managing a stock portfolio in just 6 live virtual classes. tradingwithdiana.com/coaching-2/

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Shannah Game, a certified financial planner, trauma of money specialist, and host of the Everyone's Talkin' Money podcast. We dive into some of the emotional and psychological aspects of money that most financial experts just don’t talk about.We explore how to recognize and address money trauma, redefine what wealth really means, and navigate the messiness of finances while staying true to your values. Shannah also shares powerful insights from her upcoming book, Unraveling Your Relationship with Money, and sheds light on some of the biggest money myths that might be holding you back.This is a conversation packed with eye-opening ideas and practical advice that might just change the way you think about your relationship with money.Pre-order Shannah’s book and check out her exclusive bonuses at www.everyonestalkinmoney.com/book. And don’t forget to listen to her podcast, Everyone’s Talkin' Money, available on all major platforms.Let’s grow together. Tune in and enjoy!

🎙 In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with David Gibbs, a financial and career coach, to discuss how to teach kids about money through commission-based chores, avoid debt, and build positive momentum with your finances. We explore the power of having a "reason why" to drive financial decisions, the importance of preparing for life's surprises, and how small actions can lead to big results. If you're ready to take control of your money and plan for your goals, this episode is for you! 🚀

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Sean is joined by Derek Mazzarella, CFP®, for an insightful conversation about simplifying finances and building a sustainable path to financial freedom. They discuss the pitfalls of a “whack-a-mole” financial approach, the power of automating savings, and strategies to plan for both present joys and future security. Learn how to align your financial decisions with your core values and how even small actions today can lead to massive rewards tomorrow. Plus, Derek shares a heartwarming success story about how proper planning turned a retirement dream into reality. Don't miss this masterclass in financial confidence and clarity!

In this episode, we unlock the secrets to building a budget that actually works for your life. Rob Bertman, Director of Family Budget Services at Buckingham, shares his journey from investment management to helping families save more and stress less. Together, we explore why tracking your spending is the ultimate first step to financial freedom and how to create a budget that’s empowering, not restrictive.We dive into how aligning your spending with your values can transform your relationships and reduce financial stress. Rob breaks down practical, family-friendly budgeting tips, showing you how to cut costs without sacrificing the lifestyle you love. Whether you’re a young family juggling bills or nearing retirement and looking to optimize your finances, we’ve got you covered.Plus, I share personal stories about teaching my daughter financial lessons, including a fun zombie-themed activity that will change the way you think about needs vs. wants. Don’t miss Rob’s powerful examples of how families have turned financial chaos into clarity and how you can do the same.

In this episode of the Growing Money with Sean Trace Podcast, I welcome financial coach Sandra Park, who shares her inspiring journey from being an engineer to empowering others to take charge of their finances. We dive into the fascinating similarities between financial coaching and health coaching, explore why budgeting is the foundation of financial success, and discuss how to avoid common pitfalls like lifestyle creep. Sandra highlights the transformative power of creating realistic financial habits and shares actionable tips for saving and planning for the future. Along the way, I share personal stories, insightful analogies, and thoughts on the emotional connection we all have with money. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking to refine your money management skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you take control of your financial future!

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Dyalekt and Andrea Ferrero-Hagerty, the amazing co-founders of Pockets Change, to dive into their innovative approach to financial literacy using hip hop pedagogy. We explore how to break the shame around money, teach financial literacy to kids, and empower families to take control of their financial futures.Andrea shares her journey as a teacher and how it inspired her to create new ways to teach money concepts. Meanwhile, Dyalekt shows how the principles of hip hop can completely change the way we talk about wealth and equity. I also open up about my own experiences teaching my daughter about money and the power of community-focused financial strategies.Here’s what we dig into:How to start meaningful money conversations with kids.Why shame is the biggest barrier to financial growth.The importance of cultural context in understanding money.Practical tools like discovering your “money personality” and budgeting for joy.This episode is packed with actionable strategies and inspiring stories to transform how you think about money, community, and empowerment. Check out Pockets Change’s free resources and their upcoming Hip Hop FinFest at hiphopfinfest.com!🎧 Hit subscribe for more conversations that inspire and empower your money mindset!

In this episode of the Growing Money with Sean Trace podcast, I sit down with financial coach Dee Zimmerman to dive deep into the psychology of money, resilience, and taking control of your financial journey. We explore how popular movies like Jerry Maguire and The Pursuit of Happyness highlight the struggles and triumphs that come with financial risk and fulfillment. Dee shares her insights on setting financial milestones, embracing small wins, and learning to celebrate progress. This episode is packed with actionable steps, inspiring stories, and wisdom on building a "rich life" that’s tailored to your values. Tune in to hear how financial health impacts every area of life—and how you can start moving toward your dreams today.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I take you into a zombie-filled world to teach my daughter Ailani—and you—about needs versus wants. Ailani, alone in her tent, faces tough choices: limited space in her backpack means she can only take essentials for survival, like food and water, instead of comforts like a Nintendo Switch.Through the "Backpack Test," I guide Ailani on choosing wisely by asking, "Will this keep me safe or is it just something I’d like?" This test is a fun way to make financial concepts relatable, highlighting the importance of prioritizing needs over wants in survival—and in everyday life.Thanks for tuning in to Growing Money with Sean Trace! Join me next time as we tackle more financial lessons through the lens of the zombie apocalypse.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with money coach Resa Shore to dive deep into the world of financial wellness. We explore the impact of understanding your beliefs about money, the emotional ties we all have to spending, and practical ways to separate needs from wants. Resa shares her own journey of transforming her relationship with money and offers simple, effective tools that anyone can use to take control of their finances and feel more at peace. Whether you're dealing with debt or just looking to build a healthier relationship with money, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable steps.

In this insightful episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Sean sits down with Nigel Bloomfield, co-founder of a nonprofit that helps people learn the art of budgeting. Together, they dive deep into the challenges of distinguishing wants from needs, especially when it comes to financial decisions. From personal anecdotes about costly mistakes, like a vacuum that became a lifetime investment, to practical tips on teaching kids financial literacy, this conversation covers it all. Nigel shares his personal budgeting journey, emphasizing the importance of setting clear priorities, adjusting course when necessary, and the value of making mistakes along the way. Tune in to learn how to make better financial decisions while embracing life’s little indulgences—responsibly!

In this Halloween-themed episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Jenna-Rose Finnie, a finance coach who specializes in helping people overcome their financial fears through personalized strategies. We chat about the anxieties around money, from dealing with debt to tackling unhealthy spending habits, and we even compare these financial fears to classic horror movie tropes. Jenna opens up about how she overcame $30,000 in debt and shares her proven strategies for helping others slay their own financial monsters. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by debt, struggling with a budget that feels too restrictive, or just need a plan that fits your life, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration to take control of your finances. Together, we break down the fear, one small step at a time, to show that financial freedom is closer than you think.

In this magical episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I’m diving into one of my favorite worlds—the Wizarding World of magic—to help you teach your kids about financial responsibility. From the vaults at Gringotts to the lessons hidden in a certain young wizard's journey, I’ll show you how to use the power of savings, life insurance, and planning ahead to create your own vault of gold in real life. We’ll talk about everything from emergency funds to responsible spending, giving you and your young wizards the tools to build a financially secure future. Ready to cast your Protego Money Maximus spell? Let’s jump in!

In this special Halloween episode, I sit down with my good friend and money coach, Teddy Nguyen, to talk about zombies, emergency funds, and how to survive financial apocalypses. We dive into the difference between needs and wants, and why it’s crucial to have a financial safety net, especially when life throws unexpected curveballs. Drawing from zombie movies like Train to Busan and I Am Legend, we break down how financial prep is a lot like surviving the end of the world—having the right tools, people, and mindset makes all the difference. Whether it’s life insurance, multiple streams of income, or just being smart with your spending, this episode is packed with fun analogies and real-life strategies to help you be prepared for whatever comes your way.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with money coach Teddy Nguyen for an eye-opening conversation on the psychology of spending, financial wellness, and how our emotional habits shape our relationship with money. Teddy shares his unique approach to personal finance, blending his background in social work, addiction recovery, and mental health to help people uncover the "why" behind their spending. Together, we discuss the importance of mindful spending, overcoming financial stress, and the power of small, actionable steps toward financial freedom. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking for fresh insights, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration for anyone wanting to take control of their money and create a healthier, more balanced financial life.

Financial fitness is a journey, not a destination, and in this episode, I'm here to help you take that first step. Join me as I share my own financial struggles, successes, and the lessons I'm learning along the way. Whether you're just starting out or looking to fine-tune your financial habits, this podcast offers relatable stories, practical advice, and insights from guests to guide you toward financial wellness. It's not about having it all figured out; it's about showing up, learning, and growing—one step at a time.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with behavioral finance expert Victor Ricciardi, who's got over 20 years of experience teaching finance. We dive deep into how our emotions, biases, and life experiences play a massive role in our financial decisions. Victor shares his insights on managing risk, avoiding common pitfalls, and building a mindset for long-term wealth. It's a conversation that made me rethink my relationship with money, and I know it'll do the same for you!

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Sean sits down with Clint Murphy, a former CFO turned real estate developer and personal growth advocate. Clint shares insights into the psychology of money, exploring how mindset shapes financial success, and offers practical advice on embracing opportunities, handling wealth, and fostering financial education. From entrepreneurship tips to teaching kids about money, this conversation dives deep into how personal development ties into financial growth. Tune in to learn how to take control of your financial future with actionable wisdom from Clint’s own journey.

Hey everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace. Today, I have an incredibly inspiring guest, Nigel Bloomfield. Nigel isn't a full-time financial expert; he's a regular guy like you and me who had to learn the hard way how to manage his money. He and his wife developed a unique budgeting system that completely turned their financial situation around, and they even wrote a book about it!In our conversation, Nigel shares how they went from filing bankruptcy to regaining control of their finances. We dive into the importance of living within your means and the power of making small, incremental changes. Nigel also emphasizes the mental freedom that comes with having a well-structured budget.We talk about the tough yet necessary financial conversations with family members and how to prioritize spending. Nigel’s nonprofit, Happy Giraffe, offers free resources to help people all over the world manage their money more effectively.Join us as we explore Nigel's journey and learn how anyone can achieve financial stability with the right mindset and tools.

Join host Sean Trace and special guest Mary Huang on the "Growing Money" podcast as they delve into the intricate world of personal finance through the lens of real-life struggles and triumphs. This episode features Mary's transformative journey from wealth to welfare and back again, highlighting her transition from a life coach to a financial empowerment advocate. Listen as they explore the importance of financial education, the psychological barriers to money management, and strategies for building a resilient financial future. Whether you're navigating your own financial crises or seeking to prevent them, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to empower you towards financial stability.

In this special episode of "Growing Money with Sean Trace," I'm joined by my 8-year-old co-host, Ailani, for a fun and educational discussion on money. Together, we explore the basics of financial literacy, the importance of saving, and the value of making smart financial decisions. Through engaging stories and relatable examples, we offer a unique perspective on teaching kids about money management and the significance of financial responsibility.

Welcome back to another episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, where we dive into the essentials of financial literacy and empowerment. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Amie Shapiro, a dynamic financial advisor from Lula Financial, who brings a fresh perspective on managing finances like a pro. We unpack the challenges of teaching financial concepts to children, explore the similarities between financial advising and personal training, and discuss the importance of setting solid financial foundations. Amy shares invaluable insights on prioritizing financial goals, understanding investment strategies, and the role of education in financial decision-making. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to navigate your financial journey, this episode offers practical advice to help you shape a more secure financial future. Tune in as we break down complex concepts into actionable steps, ensuring you’re well-equipped to handle your money wisely.