The City Girl Savings Podcast

Raya Reaves
The City Girl Savings Podcast

You can live a life you love on a budget and Raya Reaves is showing you how! Raya went from being an over-spender deep in credit card debt to being the founder and full-time money coach of City Girl Savings. On the weekly podcast, Raya shares her experiences, advice, and guidance on navigating life and money as a travel-and-iced coffee loving millennial! Let Raya be the money coach in your ear every week, helping you budget your way to a life you love!

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Money Systems to Set Up Before the Year Ends

    If you’re listening to this episode when it’s released, we’re about six weeks away from the new year. I love everything about this time – wrapping up a year, reflecting on how things have gone, and setting goals for another year. I think now is the perfect time to get things in order. Don’t wait for a new year to start, start now! If better money management is on your new year’s resolution list, what better time than now to begin?  In this episode, I’m sharing some money systems to set up before the year ends. Make it a point to implement these money systems in preparation for a new year, so this next year can be your best one yet!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:15] It should come as no surprise that Raya recommends everyone set up a budgeting system – no matter what a person’s situation looks like. [06:09] Raya breaks down the important aspects of your budgeting system. This includes setting up your budget, tracking your spending and closing out your budget. [12:49] To start your debt pay off system, Raya walks through how to organize your debt to help you take action. [18:25] Retirement is an investing system anyone can work towards. Raya shares some things to keep in mind when setting up your retirement contributions.   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 next 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!

    24 min
  2. 11 NOV

    5 Times I Pushed Past My Comfort Zone and Reached New Levels

    Great things happen on the other side of our comfort zones. I’ve talked about this before on the podcast and I believe it wholeheartedly. Over the course of my life, I’ve constantly pushed my own boundaries and pushed past my own comfort zone. Doing so has helped me reach new levels in life, ingrain resiliency into my character, and have a deep level of self-trust. I consider myself a capable person who can accomplish what I set out to do. That’s not to say things always go as planned or even work out. They don’t. But, every time I’ve gone outside my comfort zone, new levels await. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 times I pushed past my comfort zone and reached new heights in my life.   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:05] Raya breaks down her mindset when she decided to go full-time with City Girl Savings and how that helped her reach a new level. [05:11] If you never take action or get uncomfortable, you don’t know what amazing things are on the other side of those decisions. [12:18] Raya gives insight into her past relationship style. She breaks down how she finally let go and gave into her current relationship. [16:43] Hindsight is 20/20. Raya shares how moving to LA ended up costing her more than she ever thought it would…even though she has no regrets.   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 Episode 88 – How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable 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!

    21 min
  3. 4 NOV

    Money and Sustainable Living with Author Kara Perez

    Overconsumption, consumerism, and materialism – all things our society tends to put on a pedestal. Not only does this cause people to overextend themselves and live beyond their means, but it doesn’t usually translate into a truly happy life. That’s why I’m so excited to welcome Kara Perez back on the show. Kara’s first book “Green Money” comes out in a few weeks, and today she’s here to chat with me about all things money and sustainable living. If you’re looking to live a happier life on less, you don’t want to miss this conversation!   Here's a glance at this episode: [04:55] Kara shares her experiences with moving and keeping it budget-friendly. Kara experienced moving within a state and out of state. [12:45] 70% of the American economy is consumer spending. Kara breaks down an easy way to understand U.S. economics. [23:00] Kara encourages listeners to reframe their mindset and spending habits to help people learn to consume less. [32:32] Change needs to happen at the individual level before it can happen at the societal level. Don’t think your efforts are in vain. [39:27] Want to start being more sustainable? Kara shares her tips for getting started with sustainable living.   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 your copy of Green Money Follow Kara on Instagram Follow Kara on TikTok 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!

    48 min
  4. 28 OCT

    6 Reasons Not to Go into Debt During the Holidays

    If you’re anything like old Raya, the holidays can put a hurting on your budget. Between Christmas gifts, personal gifts, stocking stuffers and sales galore, it’s easy to find yourself going into debt during the holidays. Trust me…I was there. Black Friday was my time to buy gifts…for myself! I would buy other people gifts too, but not going to lie – I shopped quite a bit for myself. I want you to learn from my mistakes! In this episode, I’m sharing 6 reasons not to go into debt during the holidays. It can be exhilarating to get caught up in the shopping swirl, but if it’s not under control, it’ll add up quickly.   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:12] Raya shares how she would use the holidays to spend money on herself and it ended up costing her a lot of money. [04:55] Don’t wait until the New Year to keep your spending in check. Starting before the New Year helps you go into another year already on track. [08:40] If your kids see you going into debt for holiday spending, what message are you sending them? [11:13] The people who care about you don’t want you to be financially worse-off just to buy gifts for them.   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: 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!

    14 min
  5. 21 OCT

    Making the Mindset Shift from Spender to Saver

    If you’re new to the City Girl Savings community, then I need you to know that while I may be a finance coach and the founder of City Girl Savings, I was an avid spender before City Girl Savings came to be. I put myself in situations where shifting from a spending mindset to a savings mindset was a necessity. That means I know a thing or two about being an overspender. I also know a thing or two about being a saver. So, when it comes to shifting from a spending mindset to a savings mindset, my guidance speaks volumes, because I’ve been there. In this episode, I’m sharing how to make the shift from spender to saver. If you struggle with spending, you don’t want to miss this episode.   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:10] Want to become a saver? Don’t wait until the worst-case scenario to happen before making the change. [05:13] Over time, it will get easier to say “no” to things that don’t help you get towards your goals. Always remember your why. [08:34] A trend with Raya’s clients is them not wanting to touch their savings. It’s okay to use savings when things come up – that’s what it’s there for! [11:58] Spending money on experiences is always worth it for Raya, after security is taken care of. [15:10] Let growing bank account balances fuel you. Eventually other financial milestones will fuel you to keep going.   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 #1 – Big City Spender to City Girl Saver Listen to CGS Podcast #11 – The Power of Visualization to Reach Your Goals 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!

    19 min
  6. 14 OCT

    5 Budget Adjustments to Make in the Fall

    Fall is my favorite season! The weather is cooling down, pumpkin spice lattes are flowing, and the holidays are around the corner! There are so many wonderful things that come with the fall season, so it’s only right that our budgets are adjusted accordingly. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 budget adjustments to make for the fall season. Since we know that fall and winter seasons come around the same time every year, establishing a process and routine to prepare your budget ahead of time can keep you on top of your financial goals!   Here's a glance at this episode: [01:35] Don’t let the fall vibes cause you to overspend! Creating a budget specifically for the fall season can help you stay on track with financial goals. [03:40] Raya recommends adjusting your budget to send money to a “Holiday Spending” category to help with seasonal shopping. [08:00] The holidays can be a great time to pick up things you’ve been needing. Be mindful of picking up things that are on sale. [10:45] Consider reducing your current budget categories to help allocate more money to holiday-specific spending.   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 #45 – How to Prep Your Budget for the Holidays 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!

    16 min
  7. 7 OCT

    The Rise of Financial Coaching with Nicole from Arise Financial

    I’ve been a finance coach since 2016 and since then, I’ve seen a huge increase in the number of financial coaches offering services. This is a great thing! It means more conversations around financial literacy are showing people that there is outside help for your money, budget and overall financial situation. Financial advisors help you keep and grow your wealth, but financial coaches help you lay the foundation to start building wealth. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with another financial coach today – Nicole Stanley from Arise Financial Coaching. Nicole and I are going to discuss the rise of financial coaching, what benefits come from this type of coaching, and so much more!   Here's a glance at this episode: [05:46] Nicole started helping friends and family manage their budgets and retirement plans before starting her coaching company. [14:56] Nicole can see what a joy it is to spend on experiences now, when in the past she was very rigid with indulgences. [22:48] Nicole and Raya believe that people need to commit to doing the work when seeking out financial coaching assistance. [34:00] People aren’t always used to paying up front for services, but financial coaches can help bridge that knowledge gap. [41:14] Nicole breaks down toxic frugality and how people can identify their values and spend accordingly.   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 Nicole on Instagram Check out Nicole’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!

    53 min
  8. 30 SEPT

    6 Habits and Routines That Help Me Manage My Time

    One thing I pride myself on is my ability to manage my time and get things done. I’ve always been the type of person who does what she says she’s going to do, and I keep my word to myself. This has been extremely helpful in my career, but especially when working for myself. Over time, I’ve identified the things that have had the biggest impact on my time management success. In this episode, I’m sharing 6 habits and routines that play the biggest role in helping me manage my time. If you struggle with time management, I hope this episode sheds some light on what works for me and how!   Here's a glance at this episode: [02:02] By 5:45am, Raya is up and getting ready to start her workout. Getting that done early in the day makes a huge difference. [05:25] Raya only cooks 1x per week currently but shares that she makes enough to cover a handful of meals for the week. [09:09] Pulse checking her calendar for the day early in the morning helps set the tone for Raya’s morning routine. [13:25] Raya tries to ensure all meetings and appointments are set at the same time every week or every other week. [16:40] Keeping 1-2 days per week open for fluidity and flexibility can make a huge difference in your wellbeing…it does for Raya!   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 #58 – My Daily Morning Routine for Boosting Productivity  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!

    20 min

About

You can live a life you love on a budget and Raya Reaves is showing you how! Raya went from being an over-spender deep in credit card debt to being the founder and full-time money coach of City Girl Savings. On the weekly podcast, Raya shares her experiences, advice, and guidance on navigating life and money as a travel-and-iced coffee loving millennial! Let Raya be the money coach in your ear every week, helping you budget your way to a life you love!

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada