Financial Coaching for Women: How To Budget, Manage Money, Pay Off Debt, Save Money, Paycheck Plans Vanessa & Shana | Christian Financial Coaches | Dave Ramsey Fans

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In today’s episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty details of your monthly bills to help you stay on top of your budget and avoid any surprises. We’re walking you through 21 monthly bills you should definitely include in your budget. Let’s make sure nothing slips through the cracks!

Episode Highlights:


What’s a Bill?


We'll clear up the confusion between bills, spending, and savings.
Why bills are recurring, predictable expenses that need to be in your budget.


Top Monthly Bills to Remember:


Tithes: Always at the top, usually around 10% of your income.
Mortgage or Rent: Essential for keeping a roof over your head.
Utilities: Electricity, gas, water, sewer, and trash services.
Cell Phone: Monthly service charges and managing payments for family members.
Internet and Cable: Often bundled, but crucial for staying connected.
Insurances: Life, renter’s, auto, homeowner’s, and health insurance.
Coaching: Any professional or personal development services.
Annual Bills: Property taxes, memberships, vehicle registrations—plan for these monthly.
Tuition and Childcare: School fees and daycare expenses.
Sports and Music Lessons: Regular extracurricular activities.
Security System: Monthly fees for home security services.
Lawn Service and Housecleaning: Regular maintenance costs.
Subscriptions: TV, music, and other digital services.
Tolls and Transportation: Regular commuting expenses.
Prescriptions: Monthly medical costs.


Bonus Tips:


How to budget for annual bills and subscriptions.
A rundown of 21 common subscriptions you might be paying for without realizing it.



We hope this episode helps you organize your budget and remember all those little things that can add up. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to keep your finances on track!



4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!  


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Snag Our Signature Budget Template!

Hey Budget Besties! In this episode, we're diving into your most pressing financial questions. From blending finances in a blended family to getting a month ahead on bills, we've got you covered. Tune in for practical advice and tips to help you take control of your money.

Key Points:


Blending Finances in a Blended Family:


Combining different financial habits and histories can be tough. We discuss the importance of transparency and creating a unified financial plan.
Tips on starting with a clean slate: laying out all income, debt, bills, and spending habits.
Define your "why" to stay motivated during tough financial discussions.


Weekly Budget Meetings:


Schedule a consistent time each week for a budget check-in. Make it enjoyable to stay consistent.
Key questions to ask: What’s working? What isn’t? Why? Adjust your budget as needed.


Balancing Groceries and Kids’ Clothing:


Prioritize necessities over wants. Involve kids in the budgeting process to teach them financial responsibility.
Tips on triaging kids’ clothing needs and finding affordable options like thrifting.


Making the Most of Increased Income:


As your income grows, it's easy for expenses to grow too. Stick to a budget to ensure you’re saving and spending wisely.
Tips on budgeting your new income to avoid lifestyle inflation.


Recovering from Budget Mistakes:


What to do if you miss a budget: account for previous missteps and plan your next steps carefully.
Tips on resetting your budget and learning from past mistakes.


Getting a Month Ahead on Bills:


Understanding what expenses to include when trying to get a month ahead: bills, debt payments, subscriptions, and utilities.
Aim to get a paycheck ahead to cover all aspects of your budget.


Choosing the Right Bank:


Recommendations for banks that allow multiple accounts without fees. Importance of finding a bank that works for you.
Suggestions for local credit unions and digital banks like Ally.







4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!  


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Hey Budget Besties!



In today's episode, we're tackling the all-too-familiar struggle of living paycheck to paycheck. If you're tired of feeling like your money is already spent before you even get it, this episode is for you. We're breaking down our simple and effective paycheck planning system that will help you take control of your finances, ensuring that you know exactly what to do with your money each payday.

Key Takeaways:


The Problem: Living paycheck to paycheck is a common issue. Many of us earn enough money but still feel financially strapped because we're not managing our paychecks effectively.


Mindset Shift: It’s not that you’re bad with money; you just need a better system. Our method helps you see your finances clearly and plan intentionally rather than reacting to financial stress.


Monthly Budget: Start by creating a monthly budget. This gives you a bird’s-eye view of your finances, helping you allocate your income across all your expenses, debts, savings, and spending categories.


Simple Categories: Our budget system is straightforward, focusing on five key areas: income, debts, bills, spending, and savings. This simplicity makes it easy to follow and stick to.


Separate Accounts: Set up separate accounts for different spending categories like groceries, gas, and pocket money. This helps you manage your money more effectively and ensures you always have funds for what you need.


Automatic Transfers: Automate your finances by setting up automatic transfers on payday. This way, your money is allocated to the right places without you having to think about it.


Paycheck Planning: Divide your expenses evenly across your paychecks. This prevents the feast-or-famine cycle and ensures that all your needs are consistently met.


Get One Paycheck Ahead: Aim to have your last paycheck of the month cover the upcoming month's expenses. This creates a buffer and reduces financial stress.



Action Steps:


Create a Budget: Use our free budget template to get started.


Set Up Accounts: Open separate accounts for different spending categories to keep your finances organized.


Automate Transfers: Set up automatic transfers on payday to ensure your money goes where it needs to go.


Implement the Plan: Follow the paycheck plan to manage your expenses evenly and avoid financial stress.


Build a Buffer: Work towards having one paycheck ahead to further ease financial strain.






4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!  


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Hey Budget Besties! 🎉

In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of managing finances, especially when life's curveballs come your way. From adjusting to income changes, teaching your kids the value of money, to getting on the same financial page with your spouse, we’ve got a packed session of tips and real-life advice for you. Let’s get into it!

Key Topics:


Stealing from Your Bills Account?


Ever find yourself dipping into your bills account for “funsies”? Learn why it’s crucial to keep that money sacred and how to discipline your spending habits.


Transitioning Income Levels:


Shana and Vanessa share their insights on managing finances when your income is changing. Whether you’re moving from a full-time job to freelance work or dealing with seasonal income, we’ve got strategies to help you stay on track.


Teaching Kids About Money:


How much should your kids be responsible for financially? Discover practical ways to balance lessons in financial independence with giving them a helping hand, and why it’s important not to let grandma’s gifts cover daily expenses.


Couples and Money Management:


Not on the same page with your partner about finances? We discuss the importance of teamwork in budgeting and how to ensure both partners are involved in financial decisions.



Real-Life Client Stories:


Grandma’s Generosity:


Hear about a family debating whether to use grandma’s money for daily expenses or save it for bigger future goals.


Teen Independence:


Learn from a family struggling to teach their son financial independence despite a busy sports schedule.


Overworked Firefighter Family:


A look into the life of a family relying on inconsistent income and how they manage extracurricular activities on a tight budget.


Army to Civilian Life:


How a military family prepares for a major income transition and prioritizes debt repayment.



Practical Tips:


Leave Your Bills Account Alone:


Discover why carrying your bills account debit card can be a financial trap and our quirky tips to avoid unnecessary spending.


Communicate with Your Partner:


Tips on how to have productive financial discussions and make budgeting a team effort.


Planning for Inconsistent Income:


Learn how to budget based on minimum income and handle bonuses or tax returns effectively.







4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!  


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/budgetbesties/message

Snag Our Signature Budget Template!


Hey Budget Besties! 🎉 Listen into a live group coaching call where we dive deep into the game-changing strategy of using separate bank accounts for effective budgeting and more. 💡 Say goodbye to the headache of tracking every dollar and hello to the ease of automated planning!

We discuss:



1. Separate Bank Accounts


Gas and Groceries: Consider a dedicated account for these to streamline your spending without the need to track every purchase.


Bills Account: Use a separate account for bills to ensure they’re always covered, avoiding accidental overspending.


Fun Money: Keep a distinct account for discretionary spending to give yourself permission to enjoy your money guilt-free.



2. Paycheck Planning


Allocate specific amounts for different categories from each paycheck.


Example: $300 for groceries per pay period.


Adjust based on your spending patterns (e.g., weekly grocery trips).



3. Creative Budget Stretching


Shop Your House: Utilize pantry and freezer items before buying more groceries.


Weekend Supplementing: Plan smaller, supplementary shopping trips if you do a big shop at the beginning of the month.



4. Recommended Banks


Ally Bank: High interest on savings, multiple accounts.


Navy Federal: Unlimited checking and savings accounts.


USAA, Capital One, Discover: Good options with some caveats on debit cards.



5. Automation and Visualization


Automate Transfers: Set up automatic transfers from your bills account to other accounts to simplify budgeting.


Multiple Savings Goals: Use separate savings accounts for different goals (emergency fund, vacation, etc.).





We also share personal stories, like how Shana managed her budget while her husband was deployed, and Vanessa’s tips for making Taco Tuesday a no-dishes delight. 🌮✨

Tune in to learn how you can set up your budget for success, avoid unnecessary fees, and make your money work for you!






4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase!  


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/budgetbesties/message

Snag Our Signature Budget Template!


Do you find yourself juggling multiple debts and wondering which one to tackle first? 🤔 You're not alone, budget besties! We are break down the three most popular methods for getting out of debt and help you decide which one fits your unique situation.



In This Episode:


Debt Snowball Method:


What It Is: Focus on paying off the smallest balances first.


Why It Works: Quick wins keep you motivated. 🎉


Example: Pay off a $500 credit card before a $1,000 one, regardless of interest rates.


Debt Avalanche Method:


What It Is: Pay off debts with the highest interest rates first.


Why It Works: Saves the most on interest in the long run. 💰


Example: Target a credit card with a 25% interest rate over one with a 15% rate.


Minimum Payments Method:


What It Is: Pay off debts with the highest minimum payments first.


Why It Works: Frees up more cash in your budget sooner. 💵


Example: Eliminate a $500/month payment debt before a $100/month one.


Real-Life Applications:


Situational examples of how to decide which method to use.


Combining strategies for maximum impact based on your unique financial situation. 🌟





Actionable Steps:


List Your Debts: Order from smallest to largest balance, and include interest rates and minimum payments.


Evaluate: Consider if you need quick wins (Snowball), long-term savings (Avalanche), or cash flow (Minimum Payments).


Personalize: Choose or combine methods based on your unique situation. Don't forget to adjust if you get a lump sum or if your circumstances change!





No one-size-fits-all solution here! We dive into how to list your debts, evaluate your options, and choose the best method for your financial goals. Whether you’re aiming for quick wins, saving on interest, or freeing up cash flow, we’ve got the strategy for you. Tune in to empower your financial journey and take control of your debt! 🌟


4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

"I love Shana & Vanessa and this podcast is amazing!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! It helps us to reach more people – just like you – to help them change their financial future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, we’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone. 

Click here to view our privacy policy.

This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase! 


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/budgetbesties/message