Money Well Studio

MoneyWellStudio
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Where smart women sip, laugh, and get financially savvy. Welcome to Money Well Studio—the podcast where money talk is anything but boring. Hosted by Jennifer and Julie, two women who know their way around a spreadsheet and a cocktail menu, we dive into what it really takes to build financial confidence, independence, and well-being—especially for women. From the gender wealth gap to financial date nights, from confidence crushers to credit scores, you’ll get real talk, surprising stats, actionable tips, and maybe even a cocktail recipe to toast your financial rise.

  1. 5d ago

    Before You Fund That 529: College Funding Hacks, AI, and the Value of a Degree with Special Guest Javid Jamae (The College Series, Episode 2)

    How much should parents actually save for college? Is a 529 always the smartest place to put the money? And in a world being reshaped by artificial intelligence, how should families think about what a degree is actually worth? In this episode of Money Well Studio, Jennifer Lowry and Julie Black are joined by Javid Jamae, entrepreneur, software engineer, growth engineering leader, and father of five for a wide-ranging conversation about the economics of college and the choices families face long before the first tuition bill arrives. Javid shares how he financed his own education through student loans, internships, co-ops, work, and a creative townhouse rental arrangement, and why he is approaching college funding differently with his own children. The conversation moves from 529 plans and taxable investment accounts to college budgets, career experience, generational wealth, and the increasingly difficult question of how much families should invest in a traditional four-year degree when technology is changing the labor market so quickly. There is no single formula for paying for college. But there are a lot of trade-offs worth understanding before deciding where to put the money. Jennifer, Julie, and Javid discuss: The 529 question. 529 plans offer significant tax advantages when funds are used for qualified education expenses, but flexibility, investment options, timing, and individual family circumstances can affect whether they are the preferred savings vehicle. Why starting age matters. Age-based 529 portfolios generally become more conservative as a beneficiary approaches college. That can help protect money needed soon, but families beginning to save later may have less time to benefit from long-term equity growth. 529s versus taxable investment accounts. A regular brokerage account lacks the education-specific tax benefits of a 529 but generally offers greater flexibility in how and when the money can ultimately be used. Setting a college budget instead of writing a blank check. Some families choose to establish a defined amount they are willing to contribute and allow the student to weigh choices involving school, housing, scholarships, loans, and work within that framework. Generational wealth and financial independence. Helping children financially can expand their opportunities. The harder question is how to provide meaningful support while still giving them ownership over their choices, careers, and financial lives. Javid Jamae joins Money Well Studio to bring both a personal and professional perspective to the college conversation. Javid is an entrepreneur, software engineer, and growth engineering leader whose work focuses on experimentation, product growth, and helping companies make better decisions with data. His career has included leadership work in software and growth engineering, and his perspective on technology gives the conversation an especially relevant angle as families try to understand how AI and a changing labor market may affect the future value of different degrees, skills, and career paths. A huge thank-you to Javid Jamae for joining us and sharing such a candid perspective on college, money, work, parenting, technology, and what it means to prepare kids for an economy that may look very different from the one their parents entered. Learn more about Javid and his work at javidjamae.com. Keywords College funding, college savings, 529 plans, paying for college, cost of college, college ROI, student loans, taxable brokerage accounts, financial aid, co-op programs, internships, higher education, generational wealth, investing for children, parenting and money, financial planning, financial literacy, artificial intelligence, AI and careers, future of work, career planning, family finance

  2. Sep 14

    Wedded Bliss: What Happens to Yours When It Becomes Ours? With Special Guest and Family Law Attorney Kayvon Rashidi

    You already have a prenup. The question is whether you chose the terms. This episode is Part 2 of our conversation on prenuptial agreements. In our original episode, we explored the basics of prenups and why they can matter. This time, Jennifer and Julie go deeper with special guest, family law attorney and mediator Kayvon Rashidi. Kayvon explains who should consider a prenup, what a prenup can and cannot do, and when couples should start talking about money and financial expectations. They also discuss second marriages, children from previous relationships, business ownership, future business growth, inheritance, postnuptial agreements, wills, trusts, and what happens if you move to another state after signing a prenup. One of Kayvon’s biggest points is that prenups are not just for the ultra-wealthy. They can be especially relevant for people who own businesses or real estate, expect an inheritance, have children from a previous relationship, or simply want more clarity around financial expectations before marriage. The conversation also explores why each person should have their own attorney, the importance of financial disclosure, and why these discussions should happen well before the wedding. Meet Kayvon Rashidi Kayvon Rashidi is a board-certified family law attorney and mediator based in Austin, Texas. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law. Kayvon focuses exclusively on family law, representing clients in matters that include complex property division, high-conflict custody cases, marital property agreements, appeals, protective orders, and adoptions. He also serves as a mediator, helping families work toward creative settlements outside of trial when possible. His work has earned significant recognition. Kayvon has been selected to the Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars list every year from 2019 through 2026, was named to Austin Monthly’s Top Lawyers list, and in 2026 was selected as an Austin Under 40 finalist in the Legal category. Kayvon is also active in the Austin legal community and has held leadership roles with organizations including the Austin Young Lawyers Association, the National Association of Divorce Professionals, and the Iranian American Bar Association Foundation. In our conversation, Kayvon brings a practical and straightforward perspective to prenups, postnups, property, inheritance, and the financial decisions couples should think through before marriage. To learn more about Kayvon or contact him through his firm, visit PKR Family Law – Kayvon Rashidi: https://www.pkrfamilylaw.com/attorney/rashidi-kayvon/ Cocktail of the Episode: Love on the Rocks A refreshing tequila cocktail featured in the episode. Ingredients • 2 oz tequila • 1 oz fresh lime juice • Tonic water • Ice • Optional Tajín or salt for the rim Instructions 1. Fill a glass with ice. 2. Add tequila and fresh lime juice. 3. Top with tonic water. 4. Stir gently. 5. Add Tajín or salt to the rim, if desired. The Takeaway A prenup is not necessarily a prediction that a marriage will fail. It can be a way for couples to talk openly about money, ownership, inheritance, businesses, children, and the financial expectations they are bringing into a marriage. Disclaimer: This episode is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances.

  3. Aug 31

    Dolly Parton, Dirty Martinis, and the Fed’s Jackson Hole Getaway

    Dolly Parton, dirty martinis, and the Federal Reserve? Yes, really. In this week’s episode, we break down why Dolly was more than a country icon. She was a force for women, generosity, and ambition. Then we gossip our way through Jackson Hole, the Fed, and what it all means for money. And because no Dolly tribute is complete without a cocktail, here’s the Dirt Road Martini recipe we talked about: 2 oz gin2 oz unsweetened tea1/4 oz olive or cornichon brineShake with lots of iceGarnish with pickled onions, jalapeños, olives, or whatever briny goodness you love If you love smart conversations with a side of humor, this one’s for you. Quick correction: the GSA’s “special dispensation” for Jackson Hole hotel rates is doing the absolute most. Apparently even austerity has a luxury resort exception. https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates #InstagramReel #PodcastClip #DollyParton #FederalReserve #MoneyTalk #WomenInBusiness #PodcastReel #FinanceHumor #CocktailRecipe

  4. Aug 17

    College Series: The Real Cost of Choosing the “Dream School”

    Your kid loves the campus. The acceptance letter comes in. Everyone gets excited. Now look at the numbers. In this episode of Money Well Studio, we take an analytical approach to one of the biggest financial decisions families make: choosing and paying for college. The question isn’t simply, “Is this a good school?” It's "is this school worth this price for this student?" We break down how to compare colleges based on the things that actually matter financially. And because nothing pairs with college financial analysis quite like gin. Cocktail of the Episode: The FAFSA Fizz 1½ oz gin ¾ oz elderflower liqueur ¾ oz fresh lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup 2 oz club sodaLemon twist Shake the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice and simple syrup with ice. Strain over fresh ice, top with club soda and garnish with a lemon twist. A substantial improvement over most things we remember drinking in college. Resources for Comparing Colleges College Scorecard https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/ U.S. Department of Education data on college costs, graduation rates, student debt, earnings and outcomes by field of study. NCES College Navigator https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ A federal college comparison tool covering tuition, net price, financial aid, enrollment, admissions, retention and graduation rates. IPEDS https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/use-the-data The federal higher-education data system containing detailed information reported by colleges on costs, enrollment, financial aid, degrees and graduation rates. College Board BigFuture https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search Helpful for building and narrowing a college list based on major, location, school size, admissions profile, cost and other factors. And when a school becomes a serious contender, find its Net Price Calculator on the college’s website. The sticker price and what your family may actually pay can be very different. This is Part 1 of our college series: the analytical framework. In Part 2, we’ll bring in people who have actually lived these decisions and ask: Knowing what you know now, would you do it again?

  5. Aug 3

    The Person You Marry Isn’t the Person You Divorce: Need to Knows About Prenups

    Can you trust your spouse completely and still protect yourself financially? Inspired by Belle Burden’s memoir Strangers, Jennifer and Julie explore how women can gradually become disconnected from their own financial lives through decisions that look like trust, teamwork and marriage. They discuss why having a prenup does not always mean being protected, the hidden financial cost of caregiving and what happens when the person who once planned a future with you becomes the person negotiating against you. You will also hear their practical Know, Participate and Protect framework for staying informed, involved and financially secure without treating marriage like a future divorce case. Featured Drink: Duchman Dry Rosé This episode features the 2024 Dry Rosé from Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, Texas. https://www.duchmanwinery.com/product/2024-dry-rose/ Serve well chilled, or make a simple rosé spritz: 4 ounces dry rosé2 ounces sparkling water½ ounce fresh grapefruit juiceIce and a grapefruit slice Pour over ice, top with sparkling water and stir gently. In this episode: Why trust and financial dependence are not the same thing How caregiving can affect lifetime earnings and retirement security What a fair prenup should consider Why each partner needs independent legal advice The financial questions every adult should be able to answer If this episode makes you think of a woman in your life, send it to her. Disclaimer: Money Well Studio is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not provide legal advice.

  6. Jul 20

    Inflation’s Winners, Losers, and the Hidden Risk to Your Retirement

    Why would the Federal Reserve intentionally want prices to rise? In this episode, Jennifer and Julie unpack why the Fed targets roughly 2% inflation, why zero inflation is not necessarily the goal, and what can happen when prices rise too quickly—or begin falling. They travel from Revolutionary War currency to 18% mortgages in the 1970s and the post-pandemic inflation surge, exploring what these moments can teach us about confidence, interest rates, and the economy. They also discuss who tends to win and lose during inflationary periods, why cash can quietly lose purchasing power, and how inflation can reshape your retirement plan over several decades. Plus, they break down CPI, PCE, Social Security adjustments, healthcare costs, and a few strategies that may help your money keep pace. COCKTAIL OF THE EPISODE -The Shrinkflation Sour Ingredients 1½ ounces bourbon ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice ½ ounce simple syrup 1 egg white No maraschino cherry, because we are cutting costs Instructions Add the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Strain into a smaller glass to create the illusion of a full-sized cocktail. Imagine the cherry and enjoy the savings. Listen, subscribe, and share Money Well Studio with someone who has ever wondered why everything seems to cost more.

  7. Jul 2

    Trump Accounts Update: A $1,000 Baby Investment Account? There's a Catch

    In this episode of Money Well Studio, Jennifer and Julie celebrate America’s semiquincentennial the only way a personal finance podcast should: by talking about taxes. From the Stamp Act and the Tea Act to today’s newest tax-advantaged account for children, this episode connects America’s original money complaint, taxation without representation, to the modern tax code and the new Trump Accounts, also known as Section 530A accounts. Jennifer and Julie revisit what these accounts are, who may be eligible, how the $1,000 federal pilot contribution works, and why July 4, 2026 matters. Featured cocktail: Patriotic Pepper Punch Recipe:2 ounces rum1 ounce triple sec1 ounce lime juice1/2 ounce simple syrup1/2 cup seedless watermelonPinch of cayenne pepper1 cup iceBlueberry garnish Add the rum, triple sec, lime juice, simple syrup, watermelon, cayenne, and ice to a blender. Blend until smooth, pour into a glass, and garnish with a blueberry. In this episode, we discuss:What the American Revolution had to do with taxesHow tax policy is used to shape financial behaviorWhat Trump Accounts, or Section 530A accounts, areWho may be eligible to open oneHow the $1,000 federal pilot contribution worksWhy July 4, 2026 is an important dateWhat parents need to know about Form 4547How contributions and annual limits may workWhy these accounts are not Roth IRAsHow basis and taxation may applyWhat investment restrictions exist inside the accountsWhy privacy and account administration details matterWhat families should ask their tax advisors before contributing This episode is for parents, grandparents, and anyone curious about how a new child investment account fits into the long history of America, taxes, and the government’s ongoing attempt to nudge financial behavior.

  8. Jun 19

    AI Series, Part 4: The Old Career Advice Has Expired: What Parents Should Tell Kids About AI

    In the final installment of our AI and work series, we are bringing the conversation home to the kitchen table, the college tour, and the carpool line. Parents have always worried about whether they are preparing their kids for the future. But now, with AI reshaping school, work, hiring, and entire industries, the old career advice many of us grew up with is starting to feel a little expired. Get good grades. Go to college. Pick a stable profession. Work hard. Learn to type. Show up on time. Some of that advice still holds up. We remain very pro-punctuality. But some of it needs a serious update. In this episode, Jennifer and Julie talk about what parents should tell high school and college-age kids about AI, school, work, and becoming adaptable in a changing economy. The answer is not to panic, and it is definitely not to pretend nothing is changing. Instead, the goal is to help kids become AI-resilient. That means raising young adults who can use AI tools without becoming dependent on them. Kids who can think clearly, communicate well, ask better questions, verify information, work with people, and keep learning as the tools change. We talk about why parents are not crazy for feeling anxious, why the old “just get a degree and you’ll be set” advice is no longer enough, and why the best strategy is not chasing one perfect AI-proof major. The better strategy is helping kids build a flexible toolkit that travels across industries. We also dig into what students may want to study or practice in the AI age, from computer science, data, medicine, and cybersecurity to communication, ethics, education, healthcare, green technology, skilled trades, and creative fields. Because the future is not simply “tech jobs win and everything else loses.” The future is that nearly every career will become tech-enabled, and the strongest students may be the ones who can bridge worlds: human judgment plus technical fluency, creativity plus tools, communication plus data, and expertise plus adaptability. And since this is Money Well Studio, we pair this very practical conversation with a cocktail that feels perfect for kids preparing to launch into a very different world: the Paper Plane. Cocktail featured: The Paper Plane The Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail that is bright, citrusy, a little bitter, a little sweet, and beautifully balanced. It is especially fitting for an episode about helping kids prepare to launch into the future. Paper Plane recipe Ingredients: ¾ ounce bourbon ¾ ounce Aperol ¾ ounce Amaro Nonino ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice Instructions: Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist if you want to feel especially put together. SEO keywords AI and parenting, kids and AI, college and AI, future of work, AI careers, what should kids study, AI and education, career advice for teens, parenting high school students, parenting college students, AI-resilient skills, ChatGPT and school, future-ready students, AI literacy, college majors and AI, jobs of the future, Money Well Studio, women and money podcast, parenting and career advice

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About

Where smart women sip, laugh, and get financially savvy. Welcome to Money Well Studio—the podcast where money talk is anything but boring. Hosted by Jennifer and Julie, two women who know their way around a spreadsheet and a cocktail menu, we dive into what it really takes to build financial confidence, independence, and well-being—especially for women. From the gender wealth gap to financial date nights, from confidence crushers to credit scores, you’ll get real talk, surprising stats, actionable tips, and maybe even a cocktail recipe to toast your financial rise.

Information

  • Creator
    MoneyWellStudio
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © MoneyWellStudio
  • Show Website
    Money Well Studio

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