Once you know your household cash flow number, the next question is: how do you actually manage it month to month? In this episode — part 2 of our cash flow series — Lucas Marsh walks through why a tracking tool matters, two different budgeting philosophies, several specific tools and apps (free and paid), two real "guardrail" methods that go beyond tracking, and a transparent look at the actual spreadsheet system used at home. What you'll hear:→ Why you can't manage what you don't measure — and how awareness alone changes spending behavior→ Two budgeting methods: the "rear view mirror" approach vs. zero-based budgeting→ Specific tools and apps mentioned: free brokerage tools (Fidelity, Empower), Monarch Money, Quicken Simplifi, YNAB (You Need A Budget), and manual options like Google Sheets or the envelope method→ Two real guardrails that go beyond tracking: a separate discretionary checking account, and using Venmo or Cash App as a spending limit tool→ A transparent walkthrough of the actual spreadsheet system used to track transactions, categories, and the 50/30/20 framework (needs, wants, savings) A note on the tools mentioned: these are shared for informational purposes only — not a recommendation or endorsement of any specific platform. Test a few, find what fits how you think, and stick with the one you'll actually use consistently. Next episode: once you have a cash flow surplus, what should you actually do with it? We're covering emergency funds and short-term savings options. —————————————————— CATCH UP ON THE SERIES This episode builds on our ongoing transparent look at how our household manages its finances: Our Monthly Family Meeting: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4rMy5CikoFOPM8xN1sb7D5?si=xCUaXse6QXmsWyA03l-6qQ How We Split Household Expenses: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6GAM7W4PFa4xaLJljhppb3?si=w9VL08f3Q-SAvEOoVjVGyg Is Your Household Cash Flow Positive?: https://open.spotify.com/episode/30alrobARSbFW8WWPLTlh1?si=xhGuh5grR1asIhuMn0n5EQ——————————————————CONNECT WITH LUCAS Website: engineeredwealthmanagement.comServices & Fees: engineeredwealthmanagement.com/servicesSchedule a complimentary intro call: engineeredwealthmanagement.com/scheduleContact: engineeredwealthmanagement.com/contact ——————————————————WATCH THE FULL VIDEOFull video with the spreadsheet walkthrough available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mduLcAj85kwyoutube.com/@EngineeredWealthManagement —————————————————— DISCLOSUREThis podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Every person's financial situation is different — please consult with your own qualified financial, tax, or legal professional before making decisions based on what you hear in this episode. Engineered Wealth Management LLC is a fee-only registered investment adviser based in Avondale Estates, Georgia. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. To learn more about our services, fees, conflicts of interest, and Form ADV, visit engineeredwealthmanagement.com.
