The City Girl Savings Podcast

If you know me, then you know there was a time in my life where vacation spending felt so exciting in the moment…and so stressful the second I got home. I remember going on a girls trip to Vegas in my early 20s. Deep down, I knew I couldn't really afford the trip the way I was approaching it, but I went anyway. No real plan, no clear budget…just spending based on what felt good in the moment. And when I got back? Reality hit. I was scrambling to cover my normal expenses, including rent. That post-vacation stress didn't match the experience I thought I was creating. I thought I was enjoying my life, but what I was really doing was borrowing peace from my future self to enjoy the present. In this episode, we're breaking down the truth about vacation spending—what actually causes people to overspend, why guilt shows up so often around travel, and how to approach your trips in a way that lets you enjoy them fully without throwing your finances off track. Because guilt-free spending isn't about spending less…it's about spending with a plan. In this episode, we discuss: Why vacation spending often leads to stress, guilt, or financial setbacks The two extremes people fall into: overspending vs over-restricting Why emotional spending is more likely during travel How to plan your vacation spending before the trip (not during it) Why deciding your experience matters more than just setting a budget How to structure your days to balance spending and enjoyment The importance of staying aware of your spending while traveling How to enjoy your trip without feeling restricted or financially anxious This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel stressed or guilty after spending money on vacations Tend to overspend while traveling and regret it later Overthink every purchase on trips and struggle to enjoy yourself Want to travel more but feel unsure how to afford it responsibly Feel like you have to "recover" financially after vacations Want to enjoy experiences without sacrificing financial stability Why this matters: Vacation spending isn't the problem. It's how you approach it. Most people fall into one of two patterns: they either overspend and deal with the consequences later…or they restrict so much that they can't even enjoy the experience. But there's a middle ground. When you plan ahead, decide what actually matters, and stay connected to your spending while you travel, everything changes. You stop making emotional, in-the-moment decisions and start making intentional ones. And that's what allows you to enjoy your trip fully…without coming home stressed, behind, or trying to fix your finances. Timestamps: [02:45] Raya's past experiences with vacation spending tend to be a common scenario for a lot of women. [05:13] Don't wait until you're on the trip to start figuring out your finances. Planning ahead allows you to be proactive, instead of reactive with money. [09:00] When planning a trip, always start with the type of experience you want to have. This will help you plan spending. [12:20] There's a middle ground between being aware of what's happening with your money and spending while on vacation. Resources Mentioned: Episode #30: Vacation Planning on a Budget Request a free money call with Raya City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program Vacation spending doesn't have to come with guilt, but it does require intention. When you plan ahead, decide what matters, and stay connected along the way, your trips stop being something you have to recover from…and start being something that fits into your life. You get to enjoy the experience and feel good when you come home…not stressed, not behind, but still in control of your money. And if you're ready to build that kind of structure and confidence with your finances (not just for vacations, but for everyday life), support and accountability can make all the difference. You can request a free money call using the link in the Resources section. You don't have to choose between experiences and financial peace. You just have to learn how to plan for both.

There was a time in my life where summer felt like a financial reset. Everything felt lighter. More relaxed. More social. I wasn't thinking about routines the same way, and I definitely wasn't as focused on my budget. I was just… living. In the moment, it felt good. Like I was enjoying my life and taking a break from structure. But what I didn't realize back then was that the kind of "reset" I was creating wasn't actually helping me. Because if you're not careful, a financial reset can quietly turn into falling behind. In this episode, I'm walking you through four common summer spending traps that can derail your savings goals…and more importantly, how to stay aligned with your money without feeling restricted. You don't have to choose between enjoying your summer and being financially responsible…you just need to stay connected while you do it. In this episode, we discuss: The real reason summer can throw off your savings and financial progress Why feeling like you "deserve it" can turn into emotional spending How social plans can quickly lead to unplanned overspending The danger of telling yourself you'll "get back on track later" Why inconsistency with money habits makes everything feel harder How small, everyday summer spending adds up faster than you think The importance of staying connected to your budget during busy seasons Simple ways to stay intentional with your money without missing out This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel like summer always throws your finances off track Tend to overspend on social plans, dining, or last-minute activities Struggle to stay consistent with budgeting during busy seasons Tell yourself you'll "fix it later" when it comes to money Feel like your savings goals slow down or stop in the summer Want to enjoy your life while still making financial progress Why this matters: Summer doesn't ruin your finances, but disconnection from your money absolutely can. And that disconnection doesn't usually happen in big, obvious ways. It happens in small decisions. Small patterns. Small moments where you stop checking in and start going with the flow. When you're not intentional, your spending becomes reactive; and when your spending is reactive, it becomes harder to stay aligned with your goals. But when you stay connected to your money (even in busy, social, high-spend seasons), you stay in control. You make better decisions in real time. You adjust as needed, and you avoid that overwhelming feeling of having to "start over." Timestamps: [03:13] One of the biggest shifts Raya helps her clients work through is the mindset of justifying purchases. [06:06] Letting social plans dictate your spending can be one of the fastest ways to lose control of your spending. [10:53] Most women know what to do when it comes to money, but they struggle because they don't stay consistent with their efforts. [13:35] Not sure why your money feels tight in the summer? It's likely a lack of awareness of where your money is going. Resources Mentioned: Episode #184: Fighting Summer FOMO: 5 Hacks that Keep Me on Track with My Budget and Goals Request a free money call with Raya City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If there's one thing to take from this episode, it's this: summer doesn't have to set you back…but it will if you move through it without intention. The women who feel calm and confident with their money during busy seasons aren't the ones who never spend. They're the ones who decide how they want to spend before the moment happens. They stay aware. They stay connected. They stay grounded in their goals…while still enjoying their lives. If you're ready to build that kind of consistency with your money, having the right structure and support can make all the difference. You can request a free money call using the link in the resources section. You're not off track, you just need to stay connected.

Summer has a way of making you want to say yes to everything. The trips. The brunches. The outfits. The events. The experiences. Listen…there's nothing wrong with enjoying your life. In fact, you should enjoy your life. But what you don't want is to come out of the summer with credit card debt, financial stress, or feeling like you have to start over when fall hits. Because the truth is, you don't have to choose between having fun and being financially responsible. You can do both. In this episode, we're breaking down how to have your version of a "Hot Girl Summer" without overspending, without guilt, and without falling off track with your financial goals. I'm joined by Aleah Vassell from Creative With Money, who shares a powerful perspective on building wealth, managing money, and staying intentional…even with inconsistent or creative income. In this episode, we discuss: How to enjoy summer without overspending or going into debt Why high-spend seasons like summer can derail your financial progress How to balance fun, experiences, and financial responsibility What intentional spending actually looks like in real life How to manage your money during seasons of inconsistent income Why assuming "future income" will cover current spending can backfire How to create a summer spending plan or "fun fund" that works Creative ways to enjoy your summer without blowing your budget How to deal with FOMO without sabotaging your financial goals This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel pressure to spend more money during the summer months Want to enjoy your life but stay aligned with your financial goals Tend to overspend on travel, dining, or social events Feel like summer always throws you off track financially Have inconsistent income or are self-employed/creative Want to feel more intentional, confident, and in control of your spending Why this matters: Summer can either be a season where you fully enjoy your life and stay aligned with your finances…or a season that quietly undoes months of progress. A lot of overspending doesn't come from a lack of discipline. It comes from a lack of planning, intention, and awareness…especially during high-energy, high-spend seasons like this. When you approach your money with intention, everything changes. You stop reacting and start deciding. You give yourself permission to enjoy your life, but within boundaries that actually support your long-term goals. Over time, that balance is what allows you to build wealth without feeling restricted or deprived. Timestamps: [02:40] Aleah shares how she went from starving artist to high-income creative, and how Creative with Money came to be. [09:36] Prioritize your joy. You don't have to spend money to bring happiness into your life. [20:20] Aleah gives guidance to listeners who are thinking about investing or struggling with choosing investing over saving. [32:40] Raya and Aleah share some low-cost ways people can have fun over the summer. Resources Mentioned: Follow Aleah on Instagram Creative with Money Resources City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've ever felt like summer throws your finances off track, this episode is your reminder that you can enjoy your life and stay financially aligned at the same time. With a little planning, intentionality, and structure, you don't have to choose between fun and financial progress…you can have both. If you're ready to build a system that helps you stay consistent with your money no matter the season, support and accountability can make all the difference. You can learn more about coaching using the link in the show notes. You are allowed to enjoy your life. Just make sure your money is set up to support it, not stress you out later.

I'm going to say something that might sting a little. Inconsistency is the real financial killer. Not low income. Not inflation. Not student loans. Not a lack of knowledge. Inconsistency. Because most women don't struggle with money because they don't know what to do. They struggle because they do it for a few weeks… and then stop. They budget when they feel motivated… and then stop. They save for a month… and then stop. They start strong… and then lose momentum. And every time you stop, you reset your progress. In this episode, I'm breaking down why consistency (not motivation, not perfection, not even income)is the real secret to financial success. We're also talking about how consistency builds momentum, strengthens self-trust, reduces anxiety, and creates long-term results that feel stable and sustainable. If you've ever felt like you're constantly starting over with your money, this episode is going to hit home. In this episode, we discuss: Why inconsistency is the real reason many women feel stuck financially How inconsistency breaks momentum and keeps you in a cycle of starting over Why consistency builds self-trust and financial confidence How consistency compounds—both financially and behaviorally Why inconsistent money habits increase financial anxiety The difference between being interested in financial success vs committed to it How consistency makes financial success predictable (not random) Why systems and structure are required to stay consistent This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel like you're constantly starting over with your money Struggle to stay consistent with budgeting, saving, or tracking Know what to do financially, but don't follow through long-term Feel behind despite making good income Want to feel more confident, calm, and in control of your finances Why this matters: Financial success isn't built in one big moment. It's built through repeated, steady actions over time. When you're inconsistent, everything feels harder. You lose momentum. You lose clarity. You lose confidence. And eventually, you start avoiding your money altogether. But when you're consistent, everything shifts. You trust yourself more. You stay aware of your numbers. You make better decisions faster. And you start to see progress that actually sticks. Consistency removes the chaos and replaces it with stability…and over time, that stability turns into financial confidence…and real results. Timestamps: [03:39] When you lose consistency with your financial habits, you lose confidence. Avoidance is when financial chaos ensues. [07:12] Consistency changed how Raya approached risk. Decisions used to be made out of hope and adrenaline, where now, decisions are calculated. [13:10] Inconsistency results in stalls growth…with budgeting, investing, saving, and any other helpful habit for your finances. [20:05] Consistency forces you to prove to yourself that you mean what you say. If you say you want financial peace, are you consistently doing things that create it? Resources Mentioned: Episode #141: How Managing My Money Has Boosted My Confidence Episode #178: Finding Peace in Your Finances: 5 Steps to Eliminate Money Anxiety City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been feeling stuck or frustrated with your progress, this episode is your reminder that you don't need a better plan…you need more consistency with the plan you already have. If you're ready to build real consistency with your money, support, structure, and accountability can make all the difference. You can learn more about coaching using the link in the show notes. You are not behind. You're just one consistent season away from everything starting to click.

Let me guess. You've tried to "be better" with money before. You've told yourself you'll check your accounts more often. You've promised you'll stick to your budget. You've said this month will be different. And maybe it is… for a week. Then life gets busy. Work gets intense. You get tired. Something unexpected comes up. And suddenly, you're back to reacting instead of leading your money. Here's what I want to gently say: it's not that you lack discipline…it's that you lack a routine. Because discipline requires energy, but a routine relies on structure. And structure wins every time. In this episode, I'm walking you through how to create a weekly money routine that actually sticks…not one you do when you feel motivated, but one that becomes part of your rhythm. Because if you want to feel confident and in control of your finances, consistency is the bridge. And consistency is built weekly. In this episode, we discuss: Why discipline alone isn't enough to stay consistent with money How a weekly money routine creates clarity and control Why weekly check-ins prevent overwhelm and avoidance How to choose a consistent time for your routine What to include in a weekly money check-in (step-by-step) How reviewing transactions helps you stay aware of your spending Why checking account balances builds financial confidence How to plan ahead for upcoming expenses How to make small adjustments without overcorrecting The role of daily habits in supporting weekly consistency How to stay consistent even when you miss a week This episode is especially helpful if you: Struggle to stay consistent with your money habits Feel reactive instead of in control of your finances Avoid checking your accounts or tracking spending Want a simple, repeatable money routine that works Why this matters: Financial consistency isn't about doing everything perfectly…it's about having a rhythm you can return to. When you only check in on your money occasionally, everything feels bigger than it is. Numbers feel overwhelming. Decisions feel heavier. Avoidance becomes easier. But when you check in weekly, nothing builds up. You stay aware. You adjust early. You stay in control. A weekly money routine turns your finances from something reactive into something intentional…and that's where confidence starts to build. Timestamps: [02:11] The first step to building a weekly money routine is deciding when you'll implement that routine (and protect that time). A set day and time each week will go a long way. [05:10] Raya walks through the 5 core components of a weekly money check in, including reviewing transactions, updating budget categories, and more. [10:30] Your entire weekly routine should take 30-40 minutes. Being consistent with it keeps the timing efficient. [14:25] Decide in advance what happens when you slip up with your weekly routine. Don't wait until you're in the moment to determine your response. Emotions are louder than logic. Resources Mentioned: Episode #164: Plan, Prepare, and Organize Your Finances with Alaina Fingal City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been trying to stay consistent with your money but keep falling off, this episode is your reminder that you don't need to try harder…you need a routine that supports you. If you're ready to build a money routine that fits your life and helps you stay on track, you can book a free clarity call at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of managing your money in a way that feels consistent, calm, and aligned with the life you want to live. Strong routines create lasting confidence. Keep building with intention.

There was a time in my life where I relied on motivation more than structure. If I felt disciplined, I made good money decisions. If I felt overwhelmed, I avoided things until I felt better. If I was inspired, I planned. If I was tired, I let things slide. What changed my financial life wasn't working harder. It wasn't becoming more naturally organized. It wasn't even making more money. It was building systems and routines. Not complicated systems. Not time-consuming spreadsheets. Just simple, repeatable structures that removed guesswork from my day-to-day life. If you've ever felt like you're juggling a lot, setting big goals, and still wondering why everything feels heavier than it should… this episode will help you see why. Because more often than not, it's not a discipline problem…it's a systems problem. In this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes and sharing the five money systems I use to keep both my life and business organized…the ones I actually rely on consistently. In this episode, we discuss: The daily and weekly money rhythm that keeps finances organized Why tracking your spending daily reduces overwhelm How weekly check-ins create clarity and prevent surprises How I use Profit First to manage money in my business Why paying yourself first builds long-term financial discipline The power of quarterly planning using the 12-Week Year method How to align financial goals with real-life execution Why calendar systems and task management reduce mental overload How organizing responsibilities improves financial decision-making Why tracking your net worth monthly shifts your long-term mindset This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel inconsistent with your money habits Struggle to stay organized financially Rely on motivation instead of structure Want simple systems that make money management easier Why this matters: Consistency isn't built through discipline alone…it's built through structure. When your money depends on how you feel in the moment, it will always feel unstable. But when you have systems in place, your finances become predictable, organized, and easier to manage. Systems remove the need to constantly "try harder." They allow you to follow a process that supports your goals automatically. That's where financial confidence, clarity, and long-term growth begin. Timestamps: [02:35] Raya tracks her spending daily and it takes her about 5-10 minutes to get it done, because she's building off the previous day. [06:10] Raya started using the Profit First method in her own business back in 2018. It fundamentally changed her business finances. [11:50] Taking the approach of a "12 Week Year" allows Raya to zoom in and focus on important goals and what needs to be done to achieve them. [15:00] Let your systems take the burden off of you to remember what needs to get done in your life, finances, or business. Resources Mentioned: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Episode #48: Applying Profit First to Your Life and Business The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran Asana City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been feeling like you're constantly restarting your financial goals, this episode is your reminder that you don't need more motivation…you need better systems. If you're ready to build structure into your finances and create a plan that actually works for your life, you can book a free clarity call at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of building a financial life that feels organized, stable, and aligned with the life you want to live. Strong systems create lasting results. Keep building with intention.

If you've ever felt like you're doing a lot… but still feel behind, this episode is going to feel very familiar. Many working women are productive. They set goals. They work hard. They manage a lot. And yet, it can feel like there are a hundred tabs open at once. There's always something to catch up on, organize, or improve. No matter how much gets done, it rarely feels like enough. That's not a productivity problem…it's a systems problem. Today, I'm joined by time management and productivity expert Megan Sumrell, founder of The Pink Bee. She specializes in helping women build practical, repeatable systems that remove decision fatigue and create consistency…without relying on motivation or willpower. This conversation is about simplifying your life in a way that actually supports your goals. Because thriving isn't about doing more…it's about building smarter. In this episode, we discuss: Why "managing your time better" isn't the real solution The difference between being busy and being systemized What a system actually is and how to make it feel simple The foundational systems every woman needs before adding more goals How systems create more energy, not just efficiency How to prevent burnout while still pursuing big goals The connection between time management, income, and wealth building The biggest mistake women make when setting goals How to build systems that support your goals long-term This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel productive but still behind Struggle with consistency across your life and finances Feel overwhelmed managing everything on your plate Want more structure without feeling restricted Why this matters: You don't need more discipline…you need better systems. When everything relies on memory, motivation, or willpower, life starts to feel heavier than it needs to be. Systems remove that pressure. They create clarity, consistency, and space. And when your time is managed with intention, it directly impacts how you show up in your finances, your work, and your life. That's where real progress starts to feel sustainable. Timestamps: [04:45] When Megan started making time for herself, people started recognizing. [12:05] Spend time prior to week starts mapping out the week, including planning for uncertainty. [32:45] Women take on failing to plan as a personal fault, but they were never taught. [42:15] When you have the mental bandwidth of no longer being consumed by your to-do list, that mental energy shifts over to other things. Resources Mentioned: The Pink Bee Follow Megan on Instagram City Girl Savings Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been trying to stay consistent by relying on motivation, this episode is your reminder that you don't need more discipline…you need better systems. If you're ready to bring more structure and clarity into your finances, you can book a free clarity call at citygirlsavings.com to explore working together. You are capable of building a life that feels organized, aligned, and supportive of the life you want to live. Strong systems create lasting results. Keep building with intention.

Financial confidence isn't loud. It isn't flashy, and it isn't about knowing every money rule or having a perfect system. It's the calm, grounded feeling that comes from understanding your numbers and trusting yourself to make decisions with them. And here's what I've noticed after more than a decade of coaching working women with their finances: it's rarely intelligence or income holding women back. It's confidence. I've worked with women who make good money, who are responsible, who are successful in their careers…and yet they still hesitate before checking their bank account. They second-guess their spending decisions. They delay investing. They overthink debt payoff strategies. Not because they're incapable… but because they don't fully trust themselves with money. When financial confidence is missing, everything feels heavier than it needs to be. Decisions feel high stakes. Small mistakes feel catastrophic. Avoidance creeps in quietly. And that constant mental friction spills into other areas of life…your career, your relationships, even how you see yourself. But when confidence grows? Fear loosens its grip. Clarity replaces panic. Momentum replaces avoidance. In this episode, I'm walking you through six reasons financial confidence has the power to change your life, not through hype or hustle, but through steady, consistent action. And more importantly, how you can begin building it in a way that feels sustainable. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why financial confidence replaces fear with clarity • How confidence is built through action — not perfect knowledge • The identity shift that happens when you trust yourself with money • Why momentum matters more than motivation • How confidence allows you to think long-term instead of reacting • What it means to be back in the driver's seat of your financial life This episode is especially for you if: • Make decent money but still second-guess your decisions • Avoid checking your accounts when things feel uncertain • Feel stuck in reactive spending cycles • Want to build long-term wealth without constant stress Why this matters: When you don't feel confident with money, fear drives your choices. When you build financial confidence, clarity replaces fear. Decisions become intentional instead of emotional. You begin operating from logic instead of avoidance. Financial confidence isn't about perfection. It's about consistency…and that consistency compounds! In your bank account and in your self-trust. Timestamps: [02:15] What financial confidence actually is (and what it's not) [04:10] Confidence is built through action, not knowing everything [06:52] You start recognizing your limiting beliefs as false narratives [09:45] Financial confidence creates momentum [12:05] Delayed gratification becomes easier with financial confidence Resources Mentioned: Episode 141: How Managing My Money Has Boosted My Confidence Request a Free Money Clarity Call with Raya Subscribe to the City Girl Savings newsletter The CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been consuming financial content but still feel unsure when it's time to make real decisions, that's not failure…it's feedback. Confidence grows through action, and sometimes guided action makes the difference. If you're ready to build real financial confidence with structure and accountability, book a free call at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of building a financial life that feels stable, aligned, and supportive of the life you want to live. Strong foundations create lasting confidence. Keep building with intention.

What if success isn't about doing more… but about knowing when to pause? At the end of 2025, I took my first real break in the ten-year history of City Girl Savings. Not because I was failing. Not because I was burned out. But because I realized something important: building a successful life means nothing if you don't have the capacity to live inside it. If you're a high-achieving working woman who feels productive, responsible, and capable (but also quietly exhausted), this episode will meet you gently. We talk a lot about building wealth, setting goals, and strengthening financial systems. But sustainable success also requires nervous system regulation, intentional rest, and redefining what productivity means. In this episode, I'm sharing why I chose to step away from constant output, what grief taught me about using work as coping, and how choosing calm became part of my success strategy. This isn't about quitting. It isn't about doing less. It's about building a life you don't need to escape from. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why high-achievers often use productivity as proof they're "okay" • How grief and stress can quietly impact your health and decision-making • The difference between burnout and strategic rest • What it means to regulate your nervous system instead of running on pressure • How to build success that feels supportive instead of depleting This episode is especially for you if: • You struggle to rest without feeling guilty • You tie your identity to being productive and reliable • You feel "wired and tired" but still pushing through • You want success that feels sustainable long-term Why this matters for your life and money: Financial freedom isn't just about income or savings. It's about having the capacity to enjoy what you've built. When your nervous system is constantly activated, your decisions become reactive. When you operate from calm, your choices become intentional. Timestamps: [02:40] Building created opportunities [03:24] Productivity as identity and coping [05:15] Grief, health, and nervous system dysregulation [09:15] Why "regulate" became my word for 2026 [11:50] Questions to ask yourself about sustainable success Resources Mentioned: Subscribe to the City Girl Savings newsletter The CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you're working toward financial success but want your systems to support your life (not consume it), explore the resources at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of building a financial life that feels stable, aligned, and supportive of the life you want to live. Strong foundations create lasting confidence. Keep building with intention.

Have you ever felt like you're doing all the "right" things with your money…working hard, paying bills, maybe even saving…but still don't feel financially settled? If you're a working woman trying to level up your life and money, but something feels slightly unstable underneath it all, this episode will help you pinpoint why. After over a decade of coaching women through budgeting, saving, debt payoff, and financial goal planning, I've learned this: financial stress usually doesn't come from not making enough money. It comes from trying to build wealth without strengthening your foundation first. In this episode, we're slowing down and focusing on the five financial foundations that create real stability: budgeting, saving, debt management, credit, and goal planning. Not from a place of pressure. Not from a place of perfection. But from a place of clarity. Because when your foundation is solid, everything else (investing, earning more, building wealth) becomes simpler and calmer. If you've been wanting to feel more confident with money instead of second-guessing yourself, this is where we begin. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why budgeting is about clarity and freedom, not restriction • How saving builds confidence and gives you options • The shift that turns debt from something shameful into something strategic • How to understand and responsibly use credit instead of fearing it • Why financial goals should guide you, not define your worth This episode is especially helpful if you: • Make decent money but don't feel fully organized • Feel financially "fine" but not confident • Want to improve your money management skills without overwhelm • Are ready to build wealth in a more intentional way Why this matters: Wealth isn't built from random tips or motivation bursts. It's built from systems that support you long term. When your budgeting, saving, debt strategy, credit habits, and goals are aligned, your nervous system relaxes. Decisions feel clearer. Progress feels steadier. And that's when money starts feeling supportive instead of stressful. Timestamps: [02:32] Budgeting as a system for clarity [04:54] Saving as stability and self-trust [08:00] Managing debt without shame [11:48] Understanding and improving your credit [14:40] Planning goals that align with your values Resources Mentioned: Episode 1: Big City Spender to City Girl Saver The CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you're ready to organize your numbers and strengthen your financial foundation in a structured, calm way, start with the Personal Finance Portfolio at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of building a financial life that feels stable, aligned, and supportive of the life you want to live. Take it one foundation at a time. Progress built on structure will always outlast perfection.

Managing your money isn't about being perfect…it's about having a system you can rely on. Many working women make good money. They budget. They save when they can. And yet, money can still feel reactive, overwhelming, or harder to manage than it should be. If you've ever felt like you're doing "all the right things" but still don't feel organized or confident, this episode will help you think differently. Today, I'm joined by financial wellness educator and founder of Poised Finance & Lifestyle, Sahirenys Pierce. Her work has been featured in Forbes Women, CNBC, and CNET, and she's the author of The High 5 Banking Method…a practical money system built around two checking accounts and three savings accounts. This conversation is about structure, clarity, and building a money system that supports your real life instead of relying on willpower. In this episode, we discuss: • Why so many women feel overwhelmed even when they're budgeting • What the High 5 Banking Method is and how it works • The purpose behind the "2 checking + 3 savings" structure • Why separating your money into dedicated accounts reduces stress • What the 2-Week Gap Strategy is and how it helps you get ahead This episode is especially helpful if you: • Feel reactive with your money • Struggle with consistency, even when you have income • Want a simple money management system • Are looking for structure without restriction Why this matters: Budgeting is powerful…but budgeting without structure can still feel fragile. Systems create consistency. When your money has designated roles and clear organization, you remove emotional guesswork. That's where confidence builds. Timestamps: [03:53] We need to simplify things down so we can focus on what's most important [10:33] Stop putting expectations on yourself based on what social media portrays [16:38] Before setting up new bank accounts, repurpose what you currently have [23:50] Combining accounts in a partnership can provide a variety of benefits [30:00] Over 70% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck Resources Mentioned: Grab your copy of the High Five Banking Method Poised Finance & Lifestyle Follow Sahirenys on Instagram The CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Financial Focus Coaching Program If you've been craving more structure and organization in your finances, start by getting your numbers in one place with the Personal Finance Portfolio at citygirlsavings.com. You are capable of building a financial life that feels stable, aligned, and supportive of the life you want to live. Strong foundations create lasting confidence. Keep building with intention.

Can you believe this is the final episode of 2025? It feels surreal to be closing out another year of the City Girl Savings Podcast—211 episodes of financial education, mindset shifts, and real conversations about building the life you want through better money management. If you've been tuning in all year…whether this is your very first episode or you've listened to all 50+ episodes released in 2025…I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Truly. Your support, your listens, your shares, your reviews, your messages about how an episode changed your perspective... they all mean the world to me and the entire CGS team. This podcast started back in January 2022 as a way for me to share what I've learned about money, mindset, goal-setting, and creating the life you want on your own terms. Over the past four years, it's grown into such a powerful space for women to learn, grow, take ownership of their financial futures, and realize they're not alone in their money struggles. As we close out another incredible year, I've been reflecting deeply on what 2025 has taught me—not just as a money coach working with clients every week, but as a woman navigating her own financial journey, personal growth, health challenges, business evolution, and life transitions. So in today's final episode of the year, I'm sharing five powerful money lessons that 2025 taught us, along with practical ways to apply each one in 2026 so you can reach brand-new levels in your financial journey. And because I'm passionate about the transformation that happens when you have support and guidance, I'm also sharing how working with a money coach can help you implement these lessons with clarity and confidence. Grab a notebook, open your Notes app, or get ready to screenshot some key takeaways, because these five lessons are the perfect foundation for the new year ahead. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why discipline beats motivation for lasting financial results The role of mindset in determining your money success or struggles How financial systems create freedom instead of restriction Building accountability through money coaching and support systems Real client success stories: credit score increases, debt payoff, mindset shifts The power of imperfect action over waiting for perfect conditions The Perfect Year-End Reflection: After 211 episodes and countless client transformations, these five lessons represent the most powerful shifts that create lasting financial change. Whether you crushed 2025 or struggled through it, these insights will help you enter 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a concrete plan for growth. Here's a glance at this episode: [02:29] Discipline Over Motivation: Why the hard days make the biggest difference in your financial progress. [05:10] Mindset Transformation: How money coaching rewires your relationship with money, confidence, and self-worth. [09:27] Systems Create Freedom: How financial organization eliminates stress and creates lasting peace with money. [11:56] Progress Over Perfection: Why waiting for the "perfect time" keeps you stuck and how to take imperfect action. [14:40] Q1 2026 Podcast Break: What to expect during the break and exciting updates coming in April 2026. 🎉 City Girl Savings 20% Off Sale - January 1-15, 2026! Start the new year strong with 20% off custom budget plans, the Personal Finance Portfolio, 1-on-1 money coaching, and DIY worksheets. This is our biggest sale of the year and only happens once—mark your calendar! Podcast Q1 2026 Break Announcement: After releasing weekly episodes since January 2022, the City Girl Savings Podcast is taking a well-deserved Q1 break (January-March 2026). We'll share favorite past episodes weekly to keep you inspired while preparing an incredible new season. Brand-new episodes return the first Monday in April 2026! Thank You for an Amazing 2025: Thank you for being part of the CGS family this year. Your support has made this podcast's growth possible, and I'm so proud of the progress you've made toward your financial goals. Here's to the lessons learned, the progress made, and the amazing transformations waiting in 2026! Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Listen to Episode #21 – Setting Up Your Own Financial Filing System Get started on a custom budget plan today Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

As the year winds down, I always find myself in reflection mode—looking back at the goals I set at the beginning of 2025, evaluating what went well, what didn't pan out, and most importantly, what I learned along the way that will make me better at goal-setting moving forward. And let me tell you, goal setting is one of my absolute favorite things to do. I love the process of dreaming big, planning strategically, and mapping out what's next for my life and business. But if I've learned anything over the years of setting and tracking goals, it's that how you set your goals (and how you track your progress throughout the year) matters just as much as the goals themselves. You can have ambitious, exciting goals, but without the right assessment process and tracking systems, you'll constantly feel like you're falling short even when you're making real progress. Or worse, you'll keep setting the same goals year after year without understanding why they're not working. So today, I want to help you assess where you are right now with total honesty and zero guilt. Whether you absolutely crushed your 2025 goals and exceeded your own expectations, or you're looking at your list feeling like you fell short in several areas, this episode will help you reflect constructively and set yourself up for even more success in 2026. In this episode, I'm sharing 6 practical ways to assess your current goal progress and set better, more effective, more aligned goals for the new year. These strategies will help you understand what worked, what didn't, and how to create goals that actually stick. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to conduct an honest goal inventory without self-judgment Why celebrating progress matters more than perfect completion Identifying successful systems and habits that moved you forward Recognizing patterns and obstacles that consistently derailed progress The importance of revisiting your "why" before setting new goals How to make goals specific and measurable for better tracking Breaking big goals into small, consistent, achievable actions Adjusting goals when life circumstances or priorities change Separating self-worth from goal achievement outcomes Setting smarter goals based on lessons learned from previous years Here's a glance at this episode: [02:01] Honest Goal Inventory: Taking stock of achievements, in-progress goals, and what didn't happen (without self-criticism). [04:25] Progress Over Perfection: Why consistent effort and partial completion deserve celebration and recognition [08:02] Revisiting Your Why: Evaluating whether last year's goals still align with your current values and lifestyle. [11:09] Specific Goal-Setting: How to transform vague intentions into measurable, trackable targets. [13:06] Self-Worth Reminder: Decoupling personal value from goal completion and embracing growth mindset. 🎉 Annual 20% Off Sale Alert! The City Girl Savings New Year Sale runs January 1-15, 2026! Get 20% off custom budget plans, the CGS Personal Finance Portfolio, 1-on-1 money coaching, and DIY worksheets. Mark your calendar—this is our biggest sale of the year and only happens once! Podcast Break Reminder: The City Girl Savings Podcast takes a Q1 2026 break (January-March). We'll share favorite past episodes to keep you inspired, then return with fresh content the first Monday in April 2026! Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Get started on a custom budget plan today Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Wow, how is it that another year is almost behind us? The older I get, the more I feel like time is just flying by, and if you're not intentional about making the most of your time, you'll get left behind chasing goals you never quite reach. This reality feels even more true as I reflect on 2025 and look ahead to what I want to accomplish in 2026. In the spirit of making the most of my time and staying intentional with my progress, I'm a firm believer in the power of planning, setting, and reflecting on goals…both personal goals for my life and business goals for City Girl Savings. But here's what makes goal-setting even more powerful: accountability. Sharing my goals publicly with the CGS community holds me accountable to actually working toward them instead of letting them sit in a journal collecting dust. It also gives you real-world examples of how entrepreneurs balance personal wellness goals with business growth targets, manage financial priorities while building wealth, and adjust expectations when things don't go as planned. In this transparent episode, I'm sharing my complete personal and business goals for 2026, along with honest progress updates on the goals I set for 2025…the wins, the misses, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. From maxing out my Roth IRA to managing a short-term rental property, from improving profit margins to taking a podcast break for mental health, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to run a business while prioritizing personal wellness. My hope is that you finish this episode feeling empowered and inspired to set and reflect on your own 2026 goals, whether they're financial, health-related, business-focused, or all of the above. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: Balancing ambitious financial goals with realistic expectations Investment strategies: maxing out retirement accounts (Roth IRA) Real estate investment lessons from managing a short-term rental property Business finance: increasing profit margins while managing revenue fluctuations Health and wellness goals for entrepreneurs and busy professionals Managing screen time and reducing social media-induced anxiety Prioritizing nervous system regulation and work-life balance Setting business revenue and profitability targets for sustainable growth Radical Transparency for Accountability: This isn't a highlight reel—it's an honest look at what worked, what didn't, and how an entrepreneur balances million-dollar net worth building with mental health priorities. Use this as your roadmap for setting realistic, meaningful goals that honor both your ambitions and your wellbeing. Here's a glance at this episode: [03:37] Health Goal Progress: Hitting 12,000 daily steps 90% of the year and evolving fitness goals with naturopathic support. [06:43] Real Estate Reality Check: Palm Springs Airbnb lessons—prioritizing memories over profit and managing investment expectations. [11:35] Email Growth Strategy: How City Girl Savings tracks newsletter subscribers and sets baseline metrics for growth. [16:42] 2026 Life Goals: Planning a courthouse wedding and 3-week European honeymoon adventure! [18:51] Nervous System Regulation Priority: Why slowing down and reducing stress is Raya's top personal focus for 2026. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Podcast Update: No new episodes in Q1 2026—the show returns with fresh content the first Monday in April 2026! Past favorite episodes will air during the break. Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 187 - 2025 Mid Year Personal and Business Goals Check In Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

We're officially in the final stretch of the year, and you know what that means: holiday parties, family gatherings, and probably a little too much spending on gifts, decorations, and celebrations. But before we get caught up in all the festivities and lose sight of our financial goals, I want to remind you of something important: it's not too late to make some powerful moves with your money before the year ends. Here's the thing so many people get wrong: you don't have to wait until January 1st to start improving your finances. In fact, the last few weeks of the year are actually the perfect time to reflect on your spending patterns, reset your financial priorities, and take small but mighty actions that will set you up for success in 2026. Think about it…most people wait until New Year's to think about their money goals, but by starting now, you're already ahead of the game. You can finish 2025 strong and hit the ground running in January instead of scrambling to figure out where to start. So in today's episode, I'm sharing 10 quick financial wins you can knock out before the ball drops on New Year's Eve. These are simple, achievable things that don't require hours of work or major lifestyle changes, but they can give you clarity, confidence, and serious momentum going into a brand-new year. From cleaning up your finances to building quick wins and resetting your money mindset, these actionable steps will help you close out the year feeling proud and prepared. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to conduct a meaningful 2025 spending review and identify problem areas Strategies for finding and eliminating wasted subscription spending Setting up financial automation to build consistency in 2026 Creating sinking funds for specific 2026 goals and priorities Maximizing credit card rewards and cash back before year-end Making strategic extra debt payments for psychological momentum Reviewing and celebrating your savings progress (no matter the amount) Goal-setting techniques to enter 2026 with clear financial direction Money mindset reflection practices for lasting behavior change Why celebrating progress is essential for building financial confidence Don't Wait for January: While everyone else is scrambling to figure out their New Year's resolutions, you can finish 2025 strong and start 2026 already ahead. These 10 achievable wins take minimal time but create maximum impact on your financial confidence and trajectory. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:54] The 10 financial wins are broken up into 3 segments: cleaning up your finances, quick wins for momentum, and reflecting and resetting your mindset. [03:45] 2025 Spending Review: Analyzing where your money went and identifying overspending patterns (plus tracking system resources). [07:50] Credit Card Rewards Strategy: Cashing out points to fund holiday spending or accelerate financial goals. [11:25] Setting your goals is a must, money goals included! Start thinking about your 2026 goals now to start fresh January 1st. [14:59] Progress Celebration: How gratitude builds financial confidence and empowers better money decisions. Podcast Break Announcement: The City Girl Savings Podcast will be taking a short break during Q1 2026. We'll be sharing favorite past episodes to keep you inspired, then returning with brand-new content starting the first Monday in April 2026! Stay connected via Instagram @citygirlsavings and our newsletter for updates. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your CGS Personal Finance Portfolio Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I tell my money coaching clients all the time that if their health isn't right, it doesn't matter how great their money is—they won't be able to make the most of it. You could have a six-figure salary and a robust investment portfolio, but if you're mentally and emotionally depleted from constantly putting everyone else first, none of it brings you peace or fulfillment. Mental health is something that doesn't get anywhere near enough attention, especially for women who are taught from a young age to be caregivers, nurturers, and people-pleasers. It impacts so many areas of our lives…our relationships, our career decisions, our spending habits, our ability to set boundaries…and deserves to always be a priority, not an afterthought. That's why I couldn't be more excited to welcome licensed marriage and family therapist Dr. Jamila Holcomb to the show today. With over a decade of experience helping individuals and families, plus her work mentoring future therapists at Florida State University, Dr. Holcomb brings invaluable insight into the people-pleasing patterns that keep so many women stuck. In this conversation, we're diving deep into how women can stop people pleasing and start prioritizing their own happiness, and how their mental health (and even their finances) will benefit as a result. As we look to close out another year, make sure you're starting 2026 with a renewed sense of self-love, worthiness, and healthy boundaries. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: Recognizing subtle signs you're stuck in people-pleasing patterns The connection between people-pleasing, burnout, and mental health How childhood and cultural expectations shape caregiving behaviors Practical first steps to start prioritizing your own needs without guilt The role of self-worth in breaking free from people-pleasing How people-pleasing shows up in money habits and financial boundaries Setting healthy boundaries for emotional, mental, and financial wellness Self-reflection practices to build self-trust as you enter the new year The Mental Health-Money Connection: People-pleasing doesn't just drain you emotionally—it shows up in your bank account too. From overspending on others to avoiding financial boundaries, learn how prioritizing yourself mentally leads to better financial decisions and true wealth. Here's a glance at this episode: [03:00] Dr. Holcomb's Journey: Over a decade in mental health therapy and what drew her to this field. [07:45] Irritability is a common symptom prescribed to women and Jamila believes it's connected to women overextending themselves. [17:57] Reclaiming Personal Time: Creating a list of neglected activities and how to reintegrate them. [30:08] Overwhelm is personal and systemic. It's important to remember that empowering yourself is a start to impacting the overall system. [36:21] Money and Self-Worth: How finances become tools for justifying worth and gaining love through people-pleasing. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Jamila on Instagram and TikTok Visit Jamila's website Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

November is such a wonderful month, not just because of the cozy weather or fall vibes (although those are great), but because it's a season where we naturally slow down and reflect on what we're grateful for. But when it comes to money, I've noticed something troubling: so many of us focus exclusively on what we don't have: the bigger salary, the dream home, the overflowing savings account…and we completely overlook the financial blessings that are already right in front of us. This scarcity mindset keeps us stuck in a cycle of never feeling like we have enough, even when we're making progress. We dismiss our income because it's not six figures yet. We shame ourselves for having debt instead of acknowledging that credit gave us access when we needed it. We ignore our savings because the balance feels too small to celebrate. In today's episode, we're shifting that perspective completely. I want to help you recognize five financial blessings you may be overlooking, so you can start seeing your current financial situation in a new, empowering light. Because here's the thing research proves time and again: when you start practicing gratitude for what you already have, you open the door for more opportunities, more growth, and yes... more money. Abundance starts with appreciation. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why gratitude mindset attracts more financial abundance and opportunities How to reframe your current income as a blessing worth celebrating The hidden blessing of having access to credit and debt repayment ability Why any amount of savings deserves recognition and appreciation Celebrating financial possibilities you haven't tapped into yet Shifting from scarcity to abundance thinking with money Financial gratitude isn't just about feeling good, it's a proven wealth-building practice. When you acknowledge your current blessings, you shift from scarcity to abundance thinking, which opens you up to recognize and seize more opportunities for financial growth. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [01:53] Income Appreciation: Recognizing any income stream as a financial blessing worth acknowledging. [04:22] Currently paying down debt? There was a point in time where you needed access to that credit, thankfully you had it. [07:15] Celebrating Savings Progress: Honoring your commitment to future you, regardless of balance size [10:33] My favorite overlooked financial blessing is about gratitude for the possibilities you haven't even tapped into yet. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to CGS Podcast #15 – My Debt Free Story and Key Takeaways Request a complimentary call with Raya to discuss money coaching Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Before you're ready to make more money, you must master the money you currently have, and I will die on this hill. Here's the truth many people don't want to hear: a lot of us convince ourselves we need more income when, in reality, we need to control our spending habits first. It's either an income problem (you truly don't make enough to cover basic needs) or a behavioral problem (you spend too much, leading you to believe you don't make enough). And here's why this distinction matters: if you have a behavioral spending problem and don't fix it before earning more, those bad habits will scale with your income. You'll just overspend at a higher level. In this episode, we're focusing on the behavioral side of money management. I'm sharing 6 strategic ways to maximize every dollar you currently earn through better budgeting, intentional spending, and financial systems that work on autopilot. Once you've given every dollar a purpose and you're consistently sticking to your budget, you'll be ready to bring more money into the picture and reach your financial goals faster, without the cycle of earning more and spending more. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to diagnose if you have an income problem vs. a spending problem Building a goal-aligned budget that makes every dollar intentional The difference between high-impact and low-impact spending decisions Setting up automated financial systems to remove reliance on willpower When to invest in financial education or coaching for better results Why financial literacy is the foundation of wealth building The Foundation of Wealth: You can't out-earn bad spending habits. This episode gives you the framework to get intentional with your current income, break the cycle of overspending, and build a solid foundation before scaling up your earnings. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [01:57] Goal-Aligned Budgeting: Creating a budget system that intentionally leverages your current income. [04:35] Every dollar that you spend should be working for you, not against you. That means prioritizing high-impact spending. [08:40] Financial Automation: Building systems that run on autopilot without relying on memory or willpower. [12:08] If the things you're doing aren't working for your finances, it's okay to invest your time or money into getting the results you need. [14:25] The more you know about money, the more confident and strategic you become with it. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Let Raya create your custom budget plan Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Feeling stuck between where you are and where you want to be? You're not alone. Many high-achievers experience this 'in-between' phase…not quite burned out, but lacking the excitement and motivation that once drove them forward. It's that uncomfortable space where you're functioning at a higher level than before, yet still far from your ultimate goals. The spark is gone, but so is the clarity about what to do next. This life transition and career plateau is completely normal, but you don't have to stay stuck in the fog. A year ago, I found myself in this exact place: consumed by content, searching for answers, and realizing I'd become so fixated on my end destination that I forgot to appreciate the progress I'd already made. The shift from striving to gratitude changed everything. In this episode, I'm sharing the mindset shifts and practical strategies that helped me move through the in-between with purpose and renewed energy. Whether you're experiencing a career plateau, life transition, or just feeling 'blah' about your progress, you'll learn how to rediscover motivation, practice gratitude that actually works, redefine what success means in your current season, and find clarity when the path forward feels unclear. Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to recognize when you're in an 'in-between' season vs. burnout Why gratitude practices activate happiness and boost motivation Redefining success beyond traditional milestones and achievements The power of mental breaks for gaining clarity and reducing overwhelm How to appreciate your current progress while pursuing bigger goals Signs you're craving change and what to do about it Feeling Stuck Isn't Failure: That "meh" feeling when you're functioning well but not thriving is more common than you think. This episode validates the in-between experience and provides actionable tools to move through it with intention, rather than waiting for a breakthrough to happen to you. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [02:04] Raya shares how The Joy of the In-Between helped her identify where she was mentally. [05:45] Craving change but you're unsure of what's next? This could be a sign that you're stuck in your current situation. [10:49] Gratitude Neuroscience: How gratitude practices rewire your brain for happiness and motivation. [14:15] Most of us measure success by big milestones, but success can (and should) look different when we're in different seasons of life. [17:12] Mental Clarity Through Rest: How strategic breaks release mental clutter and restore vision. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Get Ashley's Book: The Joy of the In-Between Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Building multiple income streams is no longer optional…it's essential for financial freedom. The average millionaire has 7 income streams, and side hustles are one of the most accessible ways to diversify your earnings. Whether you want to pay off debt faster, save for big goals, or create passive income, starting a side hustle can transform your financial situation. Learn proven strategies from coach Latasha Peterson on how to launch and grow a profitable side business. Get ready to succeed in your side hustle era! Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to identify the right side hustle opportunity for your skills and schedule Proven methods for generating passive income through blogging and digital products Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt when starting your business Research strategies to validate your side hustle idea before investing time and money How to track what's working and scale your side income effectively Budgeting tips for managing multiple income streams Why Multiple Income Streams Matter: In today's economy, relying on a single paycheck limits your financial potential. Side hustles offer flexibility, security, and the opportunity to turn your passions into profit, all while maintaining your full-time job. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [02:52] Side Hustle Origin Story: The turning point that motivated Latasha to create additional income streams. [08:45] Not sure how to make passive income from a blog? Latasha shares how income streams from her blog helped her pay off debt. [15:59] There is more than enough to go around. Latasha shares how imposter syndrome stops someone from getting started with a side hustle. [23:30] Not sure how to determine what is working when it comes to your side hustle? Latasha shares some great resources for doing your research. [34:53] Money Management for Entrepreneurs: Why budgeting knowledge is essential for side hustle growth. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Latasha on Instagram Check out Latasha's website Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!