Disaster-Proof Your Finances: What to Do Before Crisis Hits with Susan Olson
If Money Were Easy
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...
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Wealth and Shame: The Discomfort of Having Money
If Money Were Easy
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, . To access our podcast disclosure information, . What You’ll Learn in this...
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The Golden Bachelorette: Skipping Marriage for Love and Financial Independence
If Money Were Easy
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...
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Insurance 101: Demystifying Life and Disability Policies with Mark Maurer
If Money Were Easy
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...
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How to Pick a Financial Advisor That’s Right for You
If Money Were Easy
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,...
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How Do Interest Rates Influence Your Money?
If Money Were Easy
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...
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New Year, Same You: Approach 2025 With Compassion
If Money Were Easy
How can you step into 2025 with compassion — and maybe even a little ease — in a world full of uncertainties? In this Season 3 kickoff episode, hosts Mary Beth Storjohann and Neela Hummel share thoughtful strategies for navigating both financial and emotional transitions as the new year gains momentum. Focusing on presence and personal values, they explore the benefits of setting realistic, meaningful intentions instead of rigid resolutions and highlight the power of small yet impactful financial moves — like adjusting 401(k) contributions and reviewing expenses. They also offer insights...
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Season 3 Coming March 19th!
If Money Were Easy
If Money Were Easy is back! Season 3 begins on March 19th, and we couldn’t be more excited. Not only can you expect more of the honest money (and life) discussions we can’t get enough of, but Season 3 has a new look and will be posted as video episodes on YouTube if you want some visuals with your finance banter. Make sure you're following the show wherever you’re listening so you don’t miss any updates. And don’t forget to sign up for the If Money Were Easy newsletter to get extra insights, deep dives, behind-the-scenes content, and opportunities to ask your own questions...
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The Power of Gratitude in This Season with Spencer Sherman
If Money Were Easy
In this episode special guest, Spencer Sherman, a celebrated financial advisor, author, and co-founder of Abacus Wealth Partners, shares his insights on integrating mindfulness into money management. Spencer explains that practicing gratitude can help with decision-making by reducing the tendency to ruminate over negative experiences. He discusses human survival wiring, which naturally directs attention to potential threats, leading people to dwell on negatives like critical emails or market losses. Throughout the discussion, various practical examples of incorporating mindfulness are...
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We're 40. Here's What We're Looking Forward to Financially Over the Next Decade
If Money Were Easy
Today’s episode dives into the financial aspirations and strategies for the next ten years as both hosts reflect on reaching the milestone age of 40. They explore the importance of investing in community and relationships beyond family ties, the excitement of aging with close friends, and nurturing valuable relationships despite busy schedules. They also address common financial anxieties, the concept of feeling behind financially, and provide practical tips on financial planning. Join Mary Beth and Neela as they blend thoughtful financial advice with personal anecdotes, offering a look into...
info_outlineWhile not always an easy conversation to have, talking and preparing for the death of a loved one is incredibly important. On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Jana Davis, a financial advisor at Abacus Wealth Partners, who specializes in working with octogenarians and people in their later chapters of life. Jana’s approach to financial planning is rooted in empathy and radical candor, making sure that elderly clients are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Today, we'll be diving into the importance of having open and honest conversations with our aging family members, making comprehensive plans well ahead of time, and the necessity of having a strong support team in place. Tune in as we explore the critical steps in end-of-life planning and share advice on how to handle these conversations with care and empathy.
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 best way to handle the conversation around finances and health care planning for elderly family members
- What to consider when talking about fears and concerns for those elderly family members
- The best time to start planning for the death of a loved one and some signs to look for
- A few key pieces of information to generate (if they haven’t been already) to make for efficient and effective planning
- What to ask for when understanding the person’s financial portfolio
- Some of the trusted advisors to have on the team as you and your elderly family member navigate these waters
- Why estate planning and expense management is crucial as end-of-life approaches
- The importance of involving your children for the parents’ financial affairs
- How to guard again scams and elder abuse
- Why a balance between empathy and logic in financial planning must be used