If Money Were Easy

Neela Hummel
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Investing

Hosted by Neela Hummel, If Money Were Easy is a space where real, authentic conversations about money are the norm. Inspired by her work as CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, Neela is rewriting the narrative

  1. 5d ago

    Navigating Money Roles in Relationships with Danny Smith, CFP®

    Whether you consciously chose it or not, you and your partner may have fallen into specific roles when it comes to money. One person might be the Manager, another the Earner, the Spender, or the Worrier. But when these roles go unspoken, they can sometimes lead to resentment, friction, and missed goals. In this episode of If Money Were Easy, Neela Hummel speaks with CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and Abacus financial advisor Danny Smith about how couples can navigate relationship dynamics around wealth. Danny breaks down common "money scripts," why even financial advisors hire their own financial planners, and why it's important to name and validate "invisible" household labor in single-income families. Learn why you should never "over-delegate and under-share" financial information, how to conduct a stress-free "money date," and how removing complexity from your finances brings immediate peace of mind. Learn more about Danny Smith and connect on LinkedIn. Read important podcast disclosures. STAY CONNECTED:  Follow Neela on Instagram and LinkedInFollow Abacus on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedInSubscribe to the IMWE NewsletterLearn more about Abacus by visiting our website

  2. 5d ago

    Bridging the Gap Between Financial Spreadsheets & Real Life with Neela Hummel

    You can know exactly what your financial spreadsheet says and still feel completely stuck. You can look great on paper and still lie awake at night asking: Do I actually have enough? Am I going to be okay? In this episode of If Money Were Easy, host Neela Hummel, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional (CFP®) and CEO of Abacus Wealth Partners, explores the emotional gap between traditional, technical financial planning and the way money actually impacts our daily lives. Traditional financial advice often arrives either as dense industry jargon or a pushy sales pitch, sometimes leaving people more confused and uneasy than when they started. Neela shares why Abacus starts conversations by asking about your life rather than your asset allocation. She opens up about her own personal money challenges like balancing being a mom of three, an avid kickboxer, CEO, and part of the "sandwich generation" caring for both kids and aging parents. Plus, she delivers an immediate action item every listener can consider completing today! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why looking "fine on paper" doesn't automatically translate to feeling financially secure.The core mission of Abacus Wealth Partners and values-aligned financial planning.Why there’s value in financial advice starting with your personal life before touching technical math or asset allocation.Upcoming show topics including ESG/sustainable investing, sudden wealth, inherited money, and charitable giving.Actionable Step: Why you should check and update your account beneficiaries now. Read important podcast disclosures. STAY CONNECTED:  Follow Neela on Instagram and LinkedInFollow Abacus on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedInSubscribe to the IMWE NewsletterLearn more about Abacus by visiting our website

  3. 05/14/2025

    Disaster-Proof Your Finances: What to Do Before Crisis Hits with Susan Olson

    When a natural disaster strikes, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming, especially if you're unprepared. In this episode, Mary Beth and Neela are joined by Abacus financial advisor Susan Olson, CFP®, who shares practical steps you can take to safeguard your finances. Drawing from her experience working with clients impacted by wildfires, Susan breaks down what you can do before disaster hits, from reviewing your insurance coverage and documenting your belongings, to building an emergency fund and creating an evacuation plan. If you've been meaning to prepare but don't know where to begin, this episode can give you the tools and motivation to start. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Things to consider when reviewing and updating your insurance coverageThe importance of building a household emergency fundSuggestions for creating evacuation plans (yes, even for pets and children's toys!)Tips for digitizing your documents and organizing your accountsHow you can involve your kids and greater community in preparedness effortsThe power of the "do just one thing" approach to getting started Resources Mentioned: Ready.gov disaster preparedness information and downloadable Emergency Supply ChecklistsAbacus Pro-Bono Financial Planning ServicesMy Financial Life in a Binder PDF Stay Connected: Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletterSubscribe to If Money Were Easy on YouTubeConnect with Mary Beth on Instagram and on LinkedInConnect with Neela on Instagram and LinkedInJoin the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn

    Disaster-Proof Your Finances: What to Do Before Crisis Hits with Susan Olson

  4. 05/12/2025

    Wealth and Shame: The Discomfort of Having Money

    Why doesn't having money necessarily feel good? In this episode, Mary Beth and Neela explore the complex emotions tied to wealth—whether it's guilt over having more, shame around not having enough, or discomfort with financial privilege. They unpack how money can affect identity, belonging, and relationships, and share tools to help you reframe your money story, build financial confidence, and align your wealth with your values. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: How to understand the two sides of wealth shame: having too much vs. not enough How comparison, identity, and belonging may fuel financial discomfort The emotional and psychological effects of inherited wealth How to develop financial confidence and reframe your money story How to find purpose and impact through intentional money choices Resources Mentioned: People With Parents With Money: 14 Adults Come Clean About the Down Payments, Allowances, and Tuition Payments That Make Their New York Lives Feasible – New York Magazine's Intelligencer | February 10, 2025 https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/parents-money-family-wealth-stories.html Brené Brown is known for her work on shame, vulnerability, and leadership. Stay Connected: Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletter Subscribe to If Money Were Easy on YouTube Connect with Mary Beth on Instagram and on LinkedIn Connect with Neela on Instagram and LinkedIn Join the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn

    Wealth and Shame: The Discomfort of Having Money

  5. 05/07/2025

    The Golden Bachelorette: Skipping Marriage for Love and Financial Independence

    When love blooms later in life, so do important money questions. In this episode of If Money Were Easy, Mary Beth and Neela discuss the financial realities of dating, cohabiting, and marrying after 40. Inspired by the idea of the "Golden Bachelorette," they explore how second (or third) chapters can bring new challenges and new opportunities for building strong financial foundations. From prenups and estate plans to blending families, tune in for thoughtful insights and real-world examples you might use to open your heart while also protecting your finances. Whether you're entering a new relationship, planning a second marriage, or supporting a parent stepping into a new chapter, this episode offers practical strategies to help navigate the intersection of love and money with confidence and clarity. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why traditional financial "rules" don't always apply later in life. How to protect your financial independence while building a relationship. The importance of prenups, estate planning, and updated beneficiaries. Managing money when blending families and raising kids from previous relationships. How to have clear, empowering conversations about money, love, and boundaries. How assembling a strong team (CPA, financial planner, attorney) can help. Resources: The Big Shift: For Older Women With Money, It's "Yes" to Love and "I Don't" to Marriage – The Washington Post | January 16, 2024 https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/01/16/women-separate-money-love-second-marriages/ More couples are divorcing after age 50 than ever before. Psychologists are helping them navigate the big changes – American Psychological Association | November 1, 2023 https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/11/navigating-late-in-life-divorce Stay Connected: Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletter Subscribe to If Money Were Easy on YouTube Follow Mary Beth on Instagram and LinkedIn Follow Neela on Instagram and LinkedIn Join the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and on LinkedIn

  6. 04/30/2025

    Insurance 101: Demystifying Life and Disability Policies with Mark Maurer

    When it comes to financial planning, insurance is an important piece of the puzzle. In this episode of If Money Were Easy, Mary Beth and Neela are joined by Mark Maurer, CFP®, President and CEO of Low Load Insurance Services (LLIS), to break down the complexities of disability and life insurance and shed light on what to consider when deciding what plan might be appropriate for you. They discuss why so many people tend to avoid thinking about insurance, the psychological barriers that can keep people from planning ahead, the potential differences between group and individual insurance policies, and what to consider if you're self-employed, and more. With decades of experience in the insurance industry, Mark's insights offer clarity and professional perspectives that can help you make informed decisions around your own insurance needs. Tune in for a comprehensive overview of the insurance landscape, and actionable tips. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why insurance is essential, even when you hope to never use it The differences between group and individual disability policies How to identify coverage gaps—especially for high earners and entrepreneurs The pros and cons of term vs. permanent life insurance What "laddering" your life insurance means—and how it can save you money When whole life insurance might actually make sense Resources Mentioned on the Show: Mark's company: Low Load Insurance Services https://llis.com/ Stay Connected: Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletter Subscribe to If Money Were Easy on YouTube Follow Mary Beth on Instagram and LinkedIn Follow Neela on Instagram and LinkedIn Join the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and on LinkedIn

    Insurance 101: Demystifying Life and Disability Policies with Mark Maurer

  7. 04/16/2025

    How to Pick a Financial Advisor That's Right for You

    Selecting a financial advisor can be a process, especially given the wide range of titles, credentials, and compensation models in the industry. In this episode, co-hosts and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals Mary Beth Storjohann and Neela Hummel outline the factors to consider when choosing an advisor who aligns with your financial goals and values. They explore the distinctions between various advisor designations, with a focus on the importance of working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. They also cover the concept of fiduciary responsibility—why it matters, and how to assess if your advisor is acting in your best interest. Additionally, Mary Beth and Neela discuss the different ways financial advisors are compensated, including commission-based, fee-only, and hybrid models, and how those structures can influence the advice you may receive. Whether you're beginning your search or reevaluating an existing relationship, this episode offers valuable guidance to help you make well-informed decisions for your financial life today, and into the future. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: The distinctions between various financial advisor titles and the significance of the CFP® designation. The importance of choosing an advisor who is a fiduciary who prioritizes your financial well-being. Different advisor compensation models like commission-based and fee-only, and their implications on advisory services. The questions to ask during your first meeting with a potential advisor. Resources Mentioned on the Show: How to Choose a Financial Advisor – Abacus Wealth Partners https://abacuswealth.com/how-to-choose-a-financial-advisor/ What It Means to Work with a Fee-Only, CFP® Professional Financial Advisor - Abacus Wealth Partners https://abacuswealth.com/why-you-should-work-with-a-cfp-fee-only-fiduciary-financial-advisor/ The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA): https://www.napfa.org/ Stay Connected: Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletter Subscribe to If Money Were Easy on YouTube Connect with Mary Beth on Instagram and on LinkedIn Connect with Neela on Instagram and LinkedIn Join the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn

    How to Pick a Financial Advisor That's Right for You

  8. 04/02/2025

    How Do Interest Rates Influence Your Money?

    What happens to your money when interest rates go up or down? Join Mary Beth and Neela as they dive into the complex world of interest rates and the different ways they can impact your finances – from mortgages and savings accounts, to credit cards and business loans. They explore how the Federal Reserve's adjustments influence both the economy and individual financial decisions, and offer some historical context – such as the period following the 2008 financial crisis – to highlight how those lessons can still apply today. Tune in for practical advice on how to navigate a changing interest rate environment, whether you're planning to buy a home, looking to refinance, or simply trying to manage your finances more effectively. For additional resources, information, and a full transcript of the episode, visit our website. To access our podcast disclosure information, visit this page. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why interest rates matter, and why you should care about them. The effects interest rate fluctuations can have on saving, borrowing, and business. How different types of debt, such as credit cards and mortgages, are impacted by interest rate changes. Strategic considerations for homebuyers and business owners. Resources Mentioned on the Show: A Timeline of the Fed's '22–'23 Rate Hikes & What Caused Them – TheStreet.com | April 12, 2024 How the Federal Reserve Affects Mortgage Rates – Nerdwallet.com | March 19, 2025 What's the Average Car Payment Per Month? – Nerdwallet.com | March 7, 2025 Stay Connected: Connect with Mary Beth on Instagram and on LinkedIn Connect with Neela on Instagram and LinkedIn Subscribe to the If Money Were Easy newsletter and on the new YouTube channel Join the Abacus community by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn

    How Do Interest Rates Influence Your Money?
See All (69)

About

Hosted by Neela Hummel, If Money Were Easy is a space where real, authentic conversations about money are the norm. Inspired by her work as CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, Neela is rewriting the narrative

Information

  • Creator
    Neela Hummel
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    69
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 If Money Were Easy
  • Show Website
    If Money Were Easy

You Might Also Like