City Girl Savings | Budgeting, Money Management, and Goal Setting Tips for Women

Make good money but can't seem to manage it? Looking to reach life goals but finances hold you back? Ready for a budgeting and money management system that helps you reach your dream life? You're in the right place! You can live a life you love on a budget, and Money Coach + City Girl Savings Founder 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 Monday, helping you budget your way to a life you love! Raya covers topics like: -Shifting your money mindset -Setting up budgeting systems that actually work -Paying off debt and keeping it at $0 -Leveling up your personal and professional life -Saving money tips and so much more Raya completely turned her own life around with a budget over a decade ago. Now, she runs City Girl Savings full-time, owns a second home in Palm Springs (which was a recently-achieved life goal), coaches women on how to budget and manage money, and travels the world multiple times a year (a must for Raya)! This show is perfect for women who are looking to take control of their income, live a life they truly love and build wealth and security for themselves. You can learn how to manage money that gives you everything your heart desires! Follow City Girl Savings on your favorite podcast platform, or visit: citygirlsavings.com to learn more! You can also sign-up for the weekly City Girl Savings newsletter: https://citygirlsavings.activehosted.com/f/31 Connect with Raya on Instagram: @citygirlsavings

5 Money Lessons 2025 Taught Us and How to Apply Them in 2026 12/29/2025

5 Money Lessons 2025 Taught Us and How to Apply Them in 2026 Can you believe this is the final episode of 2025? It feels surreal to be closing out another year of the City Girl Savings Podcast—211 episodes of financial education, mindset shifts, and real conversations about building the life you want through better money management. If you've been tuning in all year…whether this is your very first episode or you've listened to all 50+ episodes released in 2025…I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Truly. Your support, your listens, your shares, your reviews, your messages about how an episode changed your perspective... they all mean the world to me and the entire CGS team. This podcast started back in January 2022 as a way for me to share what I've learned about money, mindset, goal-setting, and creating the life you want on your own terms. Over the past four years, it's grown into such a powerful space for women to learn, grow, take ownership of their financial futures, and realize they're not alone in their money struggles. As we close out another incredible year, I've been reflecting deeply on what 2025 has taught me—not just as a money coach working with clients every week, but as a woman navigating her own financial journey, personal growth, health challenges, business evolution, and life transitions. So in today's final episode of the year, I'm sharing five powerful money lessons that 2025 taught us, along with practical ways to apply each one in 2026 so you can reach brand-new levels in your financial journey. And because I'm passionate about the transformation that happens when you have support and guidance, I'm also sharing how working with a money coach can help you implement these lessons with clarity and confidence. Grab a notebook, open your Notes app, or get ready to screenshot some key takeaways, because these five lessons are the perfect foundation for the new year ahead. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why discipline beats motivation for lasting financial results The role of mindset in determining your money success or struggles How financial systems create freedom instead of restriction Building accountability through money coaching and support systems Real client success stories: credit score increases, debt payoff, mindset shifts The power of imperfect action over waiting for perfect conditions The Perfect Year-End Reflection: After 211 episodes and countless client transformations, these five lessons represent the most powerful shifts that create lasting financial change. Whether you crushed 2025 or struggled through it, these insights will help you enter 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a concrete plan for growth. Here's a glance at this episode: [02:29] Discipline Over Motivation: Why the hard days make the biggest difference in your financial progress. [05:10] Mindset Transformation: How money coaching rewires your relationship with money, confidence, and self-worth. [09:27] Systems Create Freedom: How financial organization eliminates stress and creates lasting peace with money. [11:56] Progress Over Perfection: Why waiting for the "perfect time" keeps you stuck and how to take imperfect action. [14:40] Q1 2026 Podcast Break: What to expect during the break and exciting updates coming in April 2026. 🎉 City Girl Savings 20% Off Sale - January 1-15, 2026! Start the new year strong with 20% off custom budget plans, the Personal Finance Portfolio, 1-on-1 money coaching, and DIY worksheets. This is our biggest sale of the year and only happens once—mark your calendar! Podcast Q1 2026 Break Announcement: After releasing weekly episodes since January 2022, the City Girl Savings Podcast is taking a well-deserved Q1 break (January-March 2026). We'll share favorite past episodes weekly to keep you inspired while preparing an incredible new season. Brand-new episodes return the first Monday in April 2026! Thank You for an Amazing 2025: Thank you for being part of the CGS family this year. Your support has made this podcast's growth possible, and I'm so proud of the progress you've made toward your financial goals. Here's to the lessons learned, the progress made, and the amazing transformations waiting in 2026! 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your Listen to Episode #21 – Get started on a today Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38936910

6 Ways to Assess Your Goal Progress and Set Better Goals 12/22/2025

6 Ways to Assess Your Goal Progress and Set Better Goals As the year winds down, I always find myself in reflection mode—looking back at the goals I set at the beginning of 2025, evaluating what went well, what didn't pan out, and most importantly, what I learned along the way that will make me better at goal-setting moving forward. And let me tell you, goal setting is one of my absolute favorite things to do. I love the process of dreaming big, planning strategically, and mapping out what's next for my life and business. But if I've learned anything over the years of setting and tracking goals, it's that how you set your goals (and how you track your progress throughout the year) matters just as much as the goals themselves. You can have ambitious, exciting goals, but without the right assessment process and tracking systems, you'll constantly feel like you're falling short even when you're making real progress. Or worse, you'll keep setting the same goals year after year without understanding why they're not working. So today, I want to help you assess where you are right now with total honesty and zero guilt. Whether you absolutely crushed your 2025 goals and exceeded your own expectations, or you're looking at your list feeling like you fell short in several areas, this episode will help you reflect constructively and set yourself up for even more success in 2026. In this episode, I'm sharing 6 practical ways to assess your current goal progress and set better, more effective, more aligned goals for the new year. These strategies will help you understand what worked, what didn't, and how to create goals that actually stick. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to conduct an honest goal inventory without self-judgment Why celebrating progress matters more than perfect completion Identifying successful systems and habits that moved you forward Recognizing patterns and obstacles that consistently derailed progress The importance of revisiting your "why" before setting new goals How to make goals specific and measurable for better tracking Breaking big goals into small, consistent, achievable actions Adjusting goals when life circumstances or priorities change Separating self-worth from goal achievement outcomes Setting smarter goals based on lessons learned from previous years Here's a glance at this episode: [02:01] Honest Goal Inventory: Taking stock of achievements, in-progress goals, and what didn't happen (without self-criticism). [04:25] Progress Over Perfection: Why consistent effort and partial completion deserve celebration and recognition [08:02] Revisiting Your Why: Evaluating whether last year's goals still align with your current values and lifestyle. [11:09] Specific Goal-Setting: How to transform vague intentions into measurable, trackable targets. [13:06] Self-Worth Reminder: Decoupling personal value from goal completion and embracing growth mindset. 🎉 Annual 20% Off Sale Alert! The City Girl Savings New Year Sale runs January 1-15, 2026! Get 20% off custom budget plans, the CGS Personal Finance Portfolio, 1-on-1 money coaching, and DIY worksheets. Mark your calendar—this is our biggest sale of the year and only happens once! Podcast Break Reminder: The City Girl Savings Podcast takes a Q1 2026 break (January-March). We'll share favorite past episodes to keep you inspired, then return with fresh content the first Monday in April 2026! 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your Get started on a today Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38936870

My Personal and Business Goals for 2026 12/15/2025

My Personal and Business Goals for 2026 Wow, how is it that another year is almost behind us? The older I get, the more I feel like time is just flying by, and if you're not intentional about making the most of your time, you'll get left behind chasing goals you never quite reach. This reality feels even more true as I reflect on 2025 and look ahead to what I want to accomplish in 2026. In the spirit of making the most of my time and staying intentional with my progress, I'm a firm believer in the power of planning, setting, and reflecting on goals…both personal goals for my life and business goals for City Girl Savings. But here's what makes goal-setting even more powerful: accountability. Sharing my goals publicly with the CGS community holds me accountable to actually working toward them instead of letting them sit in a journal collecting dust. It also gives you real-world examples of how entrepreneurs balance personal wellness goals with business growth targets, manage financial priorities while building wealth, and adjust expectations when things don't go as planned. In this transparent episode, I'm sharing my complete personal and business goals for 2026, along with honest progress updates on the goals I set for 2025…the wins, the misses, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. From maxing out my Roth IRA to managing a short-term rental property, from improving profit margins to taking a podcast break for mental health, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to run a business while prioritizing personal wellness. My hope is that you finish this episode feeling empowered and inspired to set and reflect on your own 2026 goals, whether they're financial, health-related, business-focused, or all of the above. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Balancing ambitious financial goals with realistic expectations Investment strategies: maxing out retirement accounts (Roth IRA) Real estate investment lessons from managing a short-term rental property Business finance: increasing profit margins while managing revenue fluctuations Health and wellness goals for entrepreneurs and busy professionals Managing screen time and reducing social media-induced anxiety Prioritizing nervous system regulation and work-life balance Setting business revenue and profitability targets for sustainable growth Radical Transparency for Accountability: This isn't a highlight reel—it's an honest look at what worked, what didn't, and how an entrepreneur balances million-dollar net worth building with mental health priorities. Use this as your roadmap for setting realistic, meaningful goals that honor both your ambitions and your wellbeing. Here's a glance at this episode: [03:37] Health Goal Progress: Hitting 12,000 daily steps 90% of the year and evolving fitness goals with naturopathic support. [06:43] Real Estate Reality Check: Palm Springs Airbnb lessons—prioritizing memories over profit and managing investment expectations. [11:35] Email Growth Strategy: How City Girl Savings tracks newsletter subscribers and sets baseline metrics for growth. [16:42] 2026 Life Goals: Planning a courthouse wedding and 3-week European honeymoon adventure! [18:51] Nervous System Regulation Priority: Why slowing down and reducing stress is Raya's top personal focus for 2026. 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, , 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 , , and ! Podcast Update: No new episodes in Q1 2026—the show returns with fresh content the first Monday in April 2026! Past favorite episodes will air during the break. Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 187 - Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38936820

10 Quick Financial Wins to Achieve Before the Year Ends 12/08/2025

10 Quick Financial Wins to Achieve Before the Year Ends We're officially in the final stretch of the year, and you know what that means: holiday parties, family gatherings, and probably a little too much spending on gifts, decorations, and celebrations. But before we get caught up in all the festivities and lose sight of our financial goals, I want to remind you of something important: it's not too late to make some powerful moves with your money before the year ends. Here's the thing so many people get wrong: you don't have to wait until January 1st to start improving your finances. In fact, the last few weeks of the year are actually the perfect time to reflect on your spending patterns, reset your financial priorities, and take small but mighty actions that will set you up for success in 2026. Think about it…most people wait until New Year's to think about their money goals, but by starting now, you're already ahead of the game. You can finish 2025 strong and hit the ground running in January instead of scrambling to figure out where to start. So in today's episode, I'm sharing 10 quick financial wins you can knock out before the ball drops on New Year's Eve. These are simple, achievable things that don't require hours of work or major lifestyle changes, but they can give you clarity, confidence, and serious momentum going into a brand-new year. From cleaning up your finances to building quick wins and resetting your money mindset, these actionable steps will help you close out the year feeling proud and prepared. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to conduct a meaningful 2025 spending review and identify problem areas Strategies for finding and eliminating wasted subscription spending Setting up financial automation to build consistency in 2026 Creating sinking funds for specific 2026 goals and priorities Maximizing credit card rewards and cash back before year-end Making strategic extra debt payments for psychological momentum Reviewing and celebrating your savings progress (no matter the amount) Goal-setting techniques to enter 2026 with clear financial direction Money mindset reflection practices for lasting behavior change Why celebrating progress is essential for building financial confidence Don't Wait for January: While everyone else is scrambling to figure out their New Year's resolutions, you can finish 2025 strong and start 2026 already ahead. These 10 achievable wins take minimal time but create maximum impact on your financial confidence and trajectory. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:54] The 10 financial wins are broken up into 3 segments: cleaning up your finances, quick wins for momentum, and reflecting and resetting your mindset. [03:45] 2025 Spending Review: Analyzing where your money went and identifying overspending patterns (plus tracking system resources). [07:50] Credit Card Rewards Strategy: Cashing out points to fund holiday spending or accelerate financial goals. [11:25] Setting your goals is a must, money goals included! Start thinking about your 2026 goals now to start fresh January 1st. [14:59] Progress Celebration: How gratitude builds financial confidence and empowers better money decisions. Podcast Break Announcement: The City Girl Savings Podcast will be taking a short break during Q1 2026. We'll be sharing favorite past episodes to keep you inspired, then returning with brand-new content starting the first Monday in April 2026! Stay connected via Instagram @citygirlsavings and our newsletter for updates. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab your Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38936790

Pleasing Yourself Instead of Others with Therapist Jamila Holcomb 12/01/2025

Pleasing Yourself Instead of Others with Therapist Jamila Holcomb I tell my money coaching clients all the time that if their health isn't right, it doesn't matter how great their money is—they won't be able to make the most of it. You could have a six-figure salary and a robust investment portfolio, but if you're mentally and emotionally depleted from constantly putting everyone else first, none of it brings you peace or fulfillment. Mental health is something that doesn't get anywhere near enough attention, especially for women who are taught from a young age to be caregivers, nurturers, and people-pleasers. It impacts so many areas of our lives…our relationships, our career decisions, our spending habits, our ability to set boundaries…and deserves to always be a priority, not an afterthought. That's why I couldn't be more excited to welcome licensed marriage and family therapist Dr. Jamila Holcomb to the show today. With over a decade of experience helping individuals and families, plus her work mentoring future therapists at Florida State University, Dr. Holcomb brings invaluable insight into the people-pleasing patterns that keep so many women stuck. In this conversation, we're diving deep into how women can stop people pleasing and start prioritizing their own happiness, and how their mental health (and even their finances) will benefit as a result. As we look to close out another year, make sure you're starting 2026 with a renewed sense of self-love, worthiness, and healthy boundaries. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Recognizing subtle signs you're stuck in people-pleasing patterns The connection between people-pleasing, burnout, and mental health How childhood and cultural expectations shape caregiving behaviors Practical first steps to start prioritizing your own needs without guilt The role of self-worth in breaking free from people-pleasing How people-pleasing shows up in money habits and financial boundaries Setting healthy boundaries for emotional, mental, and financial wellness Self-reflection practices to build self-trust as you enter the new year The Mental Health-Money Connection: People-pleasing doesn't just drain you emotionally—it shows up in your bank account too. From overspending on others to avoiding financial boundaries, learn how prioritizing yourself mentally leads to better financial decisions and true wealth. Here's a glance at this episode: [03:00] Dr. Holcomb's Journey: Over a decade in mental health therapy and what drew her to this field. [07:45] Irritability is a common symptom prescribed to women and Jamila believes it’s connected to women overextending themselves. [17:57] Reclaiming Personal Time: Creating a list of neglected activities and how to reintegrate them. [30:08] Overwhelm is personal and systemic. It’s important to remember that empowering yourself is a start to impacting the overall system. [36:21] Money and Self-Worth: How finances become tools for justifying worth and gaining love through people-pleasing. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Jamila on and Visit Jamila’s Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38936755

5 Financial Blessings You May Be Overlooking 11/24/2025

5 Financial Blessings You May Be Overlooking November is such a wonderful month, not just because of the cozy weather or fall vibes (although those are great), but because it's a season where we naturally slow down and reflect on what we're grateful for. But when it comes to money, I've noticed something troubling: so many of us focus exclusively on what we don't have: the bigger salary, the dream home, the overflowing savings account…and we completely overlook the financial blessings that are already right in front of us. This scarcity mindset keeps us stuck in a cycle of never feeling like we have enough, even when we're making progress. We dismiss our income because it's not six figures yet. We shame ourselves for having debt instead of acknowledging that credit gave us access when we needed it. We ignore our savings because the balance feels too small to celebrate. In today's episode, we're shifting that perspective completely. I want to help you recognize five financial blessings you may be overlooking, so you can start seeing your current financial situation in a new, empowering light. Because here's the thing research proves time and again: when you start practicing gratitude for what you already have, you open the door for more opportunities, more growth, and yes... more money. Abundance starts with appreciation. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why gratitude mindset attracts more financial abundance and opportunities How to reframe your current income as a blessing worth celebrating The hidden blessing of having access to credit and debt repayment ability Why any amount of savings deserves recognition and appreciation Celebrating financial possibilities you haven't tapped into yet Shifting from scarcity to abundance thinking with money Financial gratitude isn't just about feeling good, it's a proven wealth-building practice. When you acknowledge your current blessings, you shift from scarcity to abundance thinking, which opens you up to recognize and seize more opportunities for financial growth. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [01:53] Income Appreciation: Recognizing any income stream as a financial blessing worth acknowledging. [04:22] Currently paying down debt? There was a point in time where you needed access to that credit, thankfully you had it. [07:15] Celebrating Savings Progress: Honoring your commitment to future you, regardless of balance size [10:33] My favorite overlooked financial blessing is about gratitude for the possibilities you haven’t even tapped into yet. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to CGS Podcast #15 – Request a to discuss money coaching Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38486925

6 Strategies to Maximize Every Dollar You Make 11/17/2025

6 Strategies to Maximize Every Dollar You Make Before you're ready to make more money, you must master the money you currently have, and I will die on this hill. Here's the truth many people don't want to hear: a lot of us convince ourselves we need more income when, in reality, we need to control our spending habits first. It's either an income problem (you truly don't make enough to cover basic needs) or a behavioral problem (you spend too much, leading you to believe you don't make enough). And here's why this distinction matters: if you have a behavioral spending problem and don't fix it before earning more, those bad habits will scale with your income. You'll just overspend at a higher level. In this episode, we're focusing on the behavioral side of money management. I'm sharing 6 strategic ways to maximize every dollar you currently earn through better budgeting, intentional spending, and financial systems that work on autopilot. Once you've given every dollar a purpose and you're consistently sticking to your budget, you'll be ready to bring more money into the picture and reach your financial goals faster, without the cycle of earning more and spending more. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to diagnose if you have an income problem vs. a spending problem Building a goal-aligned budget that makes every dollar intentional The difference between high-impact and low-impact spending decisions Setting up automated financial systems to remove reliance on willpower When to invest in financial education or coaching for better results Why financial literacy is the foundation of wealth building The Foundation of Wealth: You can't out-earn bad spending habits. This episode gives you the framework to get intentional with your current income, break the cycle of overspending, and build a solid foundation before scaling up your earnings. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [01:57] Goal-Aligned Budgeting: Creating a budget system that intentionally leverages your current income. [04:35] Every dollar that you spend should be working for you, not against you. That means prioritizing high-impact spending. [08:40] Financial Automation: Building systems that run on autopilot without relying on memory or willpower. [12:08] If the things you’re doing aren’t working for your finances, it’s okay to invest your time or money into getting the results you need. [14:25] The more you know about money, the more confident and strategic you become with it. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Let Raya create your Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38486840

Not Burned Out, But Not Excited? How to Move Through the In-Between 11/10/2025

Not Burned Out, But Not Excited? How to Move Through the In-Between Feeling stuck between where you are and where you want to be? You're not alone. Many high-achievers experience this 'in-between' phase…not quite burned out, but lacking the excitement and motivation that once drove them forward. It's that uncomfortable space where you're functioning at a higher level than before, yet still far from your ultimate goals. The spark is gone, but so is the clarity about what to do next. This life transition and career plateau is completely normal, but you don't have to stay stuck in the fog. A year ago, I found myself in this exact place: consumed by content, searching for answers, and realizing I'd become so fixated on my end destination that I forgot to appreciate the progress I'd already made. The shift from striving to gratitude changed everything. In this episode, I'm sharing the mindset shifts and practical strategies that helped me move through the in-between with purpose and renewed energy. Whether you're experiencing a career plateau, life transition, or just feeling 'blah' about your progress, you'll learn how to rediscover motivation, practice gratitude that actually works, redefine what success means in your current season, and find clarity when the path forward feels unclear. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to recognize when you're in an 'in-between' season vs. burnout Why gratitude practices activate happiness and boost motivation Redefining success beyond traditional milestones and achievements The power of mental breaks for gaining clarity and reducing overwhelm How to appreciate your current progress while pursuing bigger goals Signs you're craving change and what to do about it Feeling Stuck Isn't Failure: That "meh" feeling when you're functioning well but not thriving is more common than you think. This episode validates the in-between experience and provides actionable tools to move through it with intention, rather than waiting for a breakthrough to happen to you. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [02:04] Raya shares how The Joy of the In-Between helped her identify where she was mentally. [05:45] Craving change but you’re unsure of what’s next? This could be a sign that you’re stuck in your current situation. [10:49] Gratitude Neuroscience: How gratitude practices rewire your brain for happiness and motivation. [14:15] Most of us measure success by big milestones, but success can (and should) look different when we’re in different seasons of life. [17:12] Mental Clarity Through Rest: How strategic breaks release mental clutter and restore vision. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Get Ashley’s Book: Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38486770

How to Start a Profitable Side Hustle with Coach Latasha Peterson 11/03/2025

How to Start a Profitable Side Hustle with Coach Latasha Peterson Building multiple income streams is no longer optional…it's essential for financial freedom. The average millionaire has 7 income streams, and side hustles are one of the most accessible ways to diversify your earnings. Whether you want to pay off debt faster, save for big goals, or create passive income, starting a side hustle can transform your financial situation. Learn proven strategies from coach Latasha Peterson on how to launch and grow a profitable side business. Get ready to succeed in your side hustle era! Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to identify the right side hustle opportunity for your skills and schedule Proven methods for generating passive income through blogging and digital products Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt when starting your business Research strategies to validate your side hustle idea before investing time and money How to track what's working and scale your side income effectively Budgeting tips for managing multiple income streams Why Multiple Income Streams Matter: In today's economy, relying on a single paycheck limits your financial potential. Side hustles offer flexibility, security, and the opportunity to turn your passions into profit, all while maintaining your full-time job. Here's a Glance at This Episode: [02:52] Side Hustle Origin Story: The turning point that motivated Latasha to create additional income streams. [08:45] Not sure how to make passive income from a blog? Latasha shares how income streams from her blog helped her pay off debt. [15:59] There is more than enough to go around. Latasha shares how imposter syndrome stops someone from getting started with a side hustle. [23:30] Not sure how to determine what is working when it comes to your side hustle? Latasha shares some great resources for doing your research. [34:53] Money Management for Entrepreneurs: Why budgeting knowledge is essential for side hustle growth. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Latasha on Check out Latasha’s Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38486700

My Journey to a Regulated Nervous System 10/27/2025

My Journey to a Regulated Nervous System Chronic stress and burnout are epidemic among entrepreneurs and high-achievers. In 2025, prioritizing nervous system regulation isn't just wellness - it's essential for sustainable business success and mental health. After experiencing the physical toll of chronic stress and high cortisol, I'm sharing my journey to healing and the practical steps that are transforming my health. I’ve made it my mission to regulate my nervous system. I want to feel better. I took the first step in this mission by scheduling an appointment with a naturopathic doctor. She did a deep dive into my bloodwork and, sure enough, red flags were everywhere. She asked me if I felt tired. My answer was yes, but I still continue to get everything done. Even thinking that makes me sad. It meant that I would make sure all the work and everyone else was taken care of before myself. I’ve operated like that for so long that it’s going to take more than just a couple of months of intention to change. But that’s okay, I’m committed to it. In this episode, I’m sharing my current journey to a regulated nervous system, why our nervous systems matter and some of the habits I’ve built to become more regulated. If you struggle with excess stress, high cortisol and unwanted anxiety, I hope my story encourages you to regulate your nervous system as well! Nervous system regulation techniques you'll learn: Warning signs of chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation Why entrepreneurs are at higher risk for burnout and anxiety Practical breathing exercises for immediate stress relief How nature therapy reduces cortisol and improves mood Building sustainable self-care habits for long-term health The connection between physical health and business performance High-achieving women and entrepreneurs often sacrifice their health for productivity. This episode bridges the gap between wellness and business success, showing how nervous system regulation actually enhances performance while preventing burnout. If you're tired but keep pushing through, prioritize everyone else before yourself, or feel like you're running on empty - this episode is your permission slip to prioritize your nervous system. Here's a glance at this episode: [02:00] Health Wake-Up Call: Raya shares that things got so bad with her health that she ended up seeking out help from multiple professionals. [05:12] The Body's Warning System: If we do not take it upon ourselves to proactively regulate our nervous systems, our bodies will take over and force us. [05:52] Nervous System Basics: Your nervous system is the “command center” of your body. It does a lot to regulate your organs and emotions. [12:50] Breathwork for Stress Relief: Breathing exercises can be a great way to regulate the nervous system. Raya shares a few different examples of exercises to take on. [15:45] Nature Therapy Benefits: Raya has made it a point to always start her day in nature. It's a great way to elevate her mood and reduce stress. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38024565

Setting Your Finances Up for Success During the Holidays 10/20/2025

Setting Your Finances Up for Success During the Holidays Holiday spending doesn't have to derail your budget or financial goals. Every year, Americans overspend by thousands during the holiday season, but with proper holiday budget planning and money management strategies, you can enjoy the festivities while staying financially on track. One thing about the holidays is that they come around the same time every year. In spite of that fact, is it just me or does the time in between holiday seasons seem to go faster as we get older? I understand Christmas comes around every 365 days, but every year I almost feel caught off guard. If you’re in that hole with me, I’m happy to share that there are things we can do to make finances as smooth as possible during the holiday season. In this episode, I’m sharing a few ways you can set your finances up for success when we’re in the thick of the holiday season. You don’t need a full year to plan, stick to these tips and you’ll feel financially peaceful getting through another holiday season! 🎄 Holiday financial strategies you'll learn from this episode: Emergency holiday budget planning (even last-minute!) Creative gift-giving ideas that save money without sacrificing thoughtfulness How to navigate Black Friday and holiday sales without overspending The 24-hour rule for avoiding impulse purchases Setting spending limits that protect your financial goals Whether you're reading this in October or December, it's never too late to take control of your holiday spending. These proven strategies will help you enjoy the season without the January financial hangover that affects millions of families each year. Don't let another holiday season leave you stressed about money - implement these tips starting today! Here's a glance at this episode: [01:35] Holiday Overspending Story: Pre-City Girl Savings, Raya would constantly overspend on holiday gifts for herself and others. A savings challenge changed everything. [04:24] Last-Minute Holiday Budget: It’s never too late to create your holiday budget. If the timeline is tight, you can still be intentional with holiday budget planning. [09:36] Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas: Get creative with gift-giving! It’s not always about spending money. Thoughtful doesn’t always mean expensive, as Raya has learned. [13:37] Holiday Sales Strategy: If you’re not planning on spending any money during sales, then when you do participate in sales, you’re spending 100% more than you should. [17:02] Impulse Purchase Prevention: No one is saying you can’t purchase the things you want or need. However, give yourself 24 hours to confirm you actually want the item you’re impulsively buying. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #45 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38024435

Celebrating 200 Episodes – Raya’s Favorite Episode Roundup 10/13/2025

Celebrating 200 Episodes – Raya’s Favorite Episode Roundup Celebrating 200 episodes of personal finance education and money management tips! Since launching in January 2022, the City Girl Savings Podcast has helped thousands of women improve their financial literacy and build wealth. Wow. Time flies! Back in November 2023, the City Girl Savings Podcast had reached 100 episodes and I couldn’t quite believe it. Fast forward to now and I’m still in awe of how far we’ve come, but also how quickly time seems to move. Not to get on my soapbox, but if there’s a goal, investment, purchase or dream you’ve been putting off, TAKE ACTION NOW! Time will only keep going and you’ll regret constantly pushing out the things that really matter to you. I launched this podcast in January of 2022 and I’m so glad I did. It’s been such a wonderful journey and experience and knowing that people are encouraged and motivated from these episodes makes it all worth it. To celebrate 200 episodes of the City Girl Savings Podcast, I’m sharing my 10 all-time favorite episodes. These top 10 City Girl Savings Podcast episodes featured: Mindset shift strategies from overspending to saving Investment advice and building wealth for beginners Financial confidence and money management psychology Setting financial boundaries and eliminating money anxiety Business lessons and entrepreneurship insights Daily habits for financial success and productivity After 200 episodes covering everything from budgeting basics to advanced investment strategies, these 10 episodes represent the most transformative money lessons for building lasting wealth and financial freedom. Here's a glance at this episode: [02:42] Money Mindset Transformation: Making the Mindset Shift from Spender to Saver made this list due to the true mindset shift that needs to happen to take someone from an overspender to an avid saver. [06:45] Investing in Financial Education: Do you struggle with investing in yourself to improve? Why You Need to Pay to Get Better with Money helps shift that mindset. [10:28] 10 Years of Business Lessons: Hear all Raya has learned after 10 years in business with a celebration of City Girl Savings reaching a decade. [14:27] Financial Confidence Building: Being a better steward of money has increased Raya’s self-confidence tenfold and she shares just how in this episode. [17:00] Financial Boundaries That Work: Give yourself money to enjoy life with. This can be a financial boundary you set that ends up being a helpful tool. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #149: Listen to Episode #3: Listen to Episode #84: Listen to Episode #159: Listen to Episode #164: Listen to Episode #58: Listen to Episode #141: Listen to Episode #62: Listen to Episode #182: Listen to Episode #178: Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38024355

Taking Responsibility for Your Finances with Shannon Ryan 10/06/2025

Taking Responsibility for Your Finances with Shannon Ryan When it comes to personal finance and wealth building, no one is coming to save us. Women need to take ownership of their financial planning and money management to build long-term wealth. Women need to (and should want to) take ownership for their financial situations and seek out ways to level up their finances. The cost of living and everything that comes with it will only continue to rise. Instead of being left behind on the wealth-building train, let’s get into the mindset needed to obtain true time and money freedom. When it comes to money, there’s so much more than simply knowing what to do with it. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Certified Financial Planner Shannon Ryan today. Shannon has over 30 years of experience guiding women, individuals and families through the emotional side of money. The side that doesn’t get as much conversation as it needs. Get ready to feel empowered and encouraged to take responsibility for your financial life! What you'll learn from this episode: Why the emotional side of money matters more than financial tactics Practical steps to overcome financial avoidance and take control How to identify and break destructive money patterns Essential wealth-building strategies for long-term financial freedom Here's a glance at this episode: [02:55] Financial Psychology & Money Mindset: Shannon’s dad was the one who planted seeds in Shannon to understand the emotional side of money. It changed everything for her. [11:15] Breaking Money Patterns: We get into these patterns of telling ourselves things that aren’t true – especially with money. We let society dictate what we want. [21:40] Overcoming Financial Anxiety: Afraid of what you’re going to find when you look into your finances? Shannon shares how women can take a stance of empowerment instead of avoidance. [32:07] Budgeting Reality Check: If you have more going out than coming in, you’re spending beyond your means. It doesn’t feel good but downsizing your life may be a requirement. [45:45] Retirement Planning Basics: If you ever want to have the option not to work for money, you have to live off your assets, and this is where retirement planning comes in. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Shannon on Grab Shannon’s Book: Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/38024265

7 Ways to Enhance Your Money Mindset with Proper Fuel 09/29/2025

7 Ways to Enhance Your Money Mindset with Proper Fuel Just like our bodies need fuel to thrive, our mindsets need the right inputs to grow, especially when it comes to money. Feeding your money mindset with proper fuel allows you to expand your thought process, seek out solutions to your money problems, and put things in place to help improve your financial situation. In this episode, I’m walking you through 7 powerful ways to fuel your money mindset so you can stay motivated, empowered, and on track with your goals. The more you feed your money mindset, the better your financial life becomes. And yes, I’m speaking from experience! Here's a glance at this episode: [01:40] What is a money mindset? Raya shares that your money mindset is a collection of beliefs, thoughts and emotions you have around money. [04:08] You can know how to budget, save and invest, but if your mindset is stuck in scarcity or fear, you may struggle to take action. [07:26] When you’re around others that are goal-driven, it’s much easier to stay inspired and focused on your own goals. [11:44] When you invest in yourself, you are telling your future self that she’s worth it! That creates a mindset rooted in abundance and belief. [13:53] Limit your exposure to things that impact your positivity. Protect your peace and keep your mindset in a positive place. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #74 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37693490

5 Important Reasons to Shift Your Limiting Beliefs to See Success 09/22/2025

5 Important Reasons to Shift Your Limiting Beliefs to See Success What if the only thing standing between you and success is what you believe about yourself? Wouldn’t you shift that belief so that you and success were no longer separated? Of course you would! I know I would! Here’s a hard truth: there are self-imposed beliefs that are keeping you from success. These limiting beliefs are holding you back from the things that can bring you the most joy. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways to shift your limiting beliefs and why your future self’s happiness relies on it. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:30] Raya breaks down what limiting beliefs are. They are negative thoughts we have that are untrue, but we believe them to be true. [05:08] Identifying the thoughts that are posing as untrue beliefs is the first step to shifting your mind to reach success. [09:10] Especially in the beginning, it’s going to take time to reframe your state of mind. It will be worth the work and get easier over time. [12:41] Audit your environment. Make sure the people and things you surround yourself with aren’t reinforcing your limiting beliefs. [15:32] Raya shares a few examples of small actions that can be implemented to prove a limiting belief wrong. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Free 5-Day Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37693455

10 Books to Read to Level Up Your Life and Money 09/15/2025

10 Books to Read to Level Up Your Life and Money There is so much information out there, and sometimes, you have to be willing to seek it. When it comes to my life and money, I’m always seeking out education or insight to help me level up. I don’t believe in staying stagnant and there’s always someone or something that can help me expand my mindset to continue growing. I’ve read thousands of books in my lifetime, and there are always some that completely change my world. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 book recommendations that have helped me level up personally and financially. These books will no doubt play a role in leveling up your life and money, just like they did for me. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:50] The first book Raya recommends is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Raya shares how she wished she read this book sooner, but timing was everything. [05:40] The principles shared in The Richest Man in Babylon provide a great financial starting point for anyone looking to understand money. [09:20] After Raya’s father passed away, The Power of Now helped her see the beauty in the present, regardless of the grief she felt. [13:00] Embracing uncertainty with faith and grace isn’t easy to do, especially if goals aren’t achieved. The Joy of the In-Between helps. [16:10] Building strong habits starts with small, consistent actions. Atomic Habits brings to light the importance of slow and steady when growing. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: by Napoleon Hill by Mark Manson by George Clason by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy by Eckhart Tolle by Marianna Olszewski by Ashley Hetherington by Mike Michalowicz by James Clear by Brian Moran Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37693405

How Mastering Self-Discipline Has Helped Me Reach New Levels 09/08/2025

How Mastering Self-Discipline Has Helped Me Reach New Levels I’ve accomplished a lot in my life and while there is still more I want to do, and by no means do I think I’m perfect, I do feel like I’ve mastered self-discipline well enough to get me to where I’m at today. Mastering self-discipline over the years has no doubt helped me to reach new levels and goals I didn’t know how to obtain. Being able to tell myself no, to hold myself accountable to the things I say I’m going to do, and stay disciplined in the face of temptation has built a resiliency and confidence in myself that I’m proud of. I think anyone can do and feel the same. In this episode, I’m sharing how mastering self-discipline has helped me reach new levels. My hope is that you take some things away from this episode to start working on your own self-discipline. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:40] Raya shares what self-discipline means to her. Raya sees it as the ability to get things done, even when she doesn’t want to. [05:15] Raya’s consistent workout routine has helped Raya keep her body free from pain, enhance mobility and increase her mental fortitude. [09:00] Raya shares that she’s not the type of person who functions best going into the unknown. She prefers planning and preparation. [13:58] Instead of letting increased weight gain (with a consistent workout routine) derail Raya, she shares it encouraged her to find a real solution. [17:35] What goal will have the most impact on your health, mind or well-being? Focus your energy on that goal and see how it impacts other goals. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #119 – Listen to Episode #141 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37693325

Think Like an Executive with Coach Latesha Byrd 09/01/2025

Think Like an Executive with Coach Latesha Byrd Women are running businesses, households, finances, relationships and careers. That alone makes us leaders. Combine all we have to do in our personal lives with the pressures of growing professionally, burnout and overwhelm may not be far behind. If you struggle with fostering a mindset that helps you think like a leader, an executive, or the BOSS that you are, let’s change that today! I’m so excited to chat with Executive Coach Latesha Byrd about how women can start thinking like leaders – in their work and personal lives. Latesha is sharing how anyone can excel in their work environment and create the impact they desire. Here's a glance at this episode: [02:40] Latesha has always operated through a lens of never settling. Her self-belief has always been high, thanks to growing up in a single-parent household. [09:00] There is no set way to be an executive. When you think of executive presence, you get to decide what that looks like for you. [19:25] You don’t need to talk about wins in comparison with someone else. Compare current you to past you and share that growth recognition. [29:00] Getting out of your comfort zone and taking risks is what helps build confidence in yourself. “Success leaves clues.” [39:08] Assess your self-worth against your true values. Also, don’t be afraid to say no to things that aren’t aligned. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Latesha on Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37693215

6 Productive Ways to Manage Your Money in 10 Minutes a Day 08/25/2025

6 Productive Ways to Manage Your Money in 10 Minutes a Day With all the things we have going on in our lives, it can be hard to find the time to be productive. And while I’m a firm believer in “good things take time”, if there’s an opportunity for me to be as productive and effective as possible, in the shortest amount of time, you better believe I’m taking it! My money and finances have been a top priority for me for decades, and that has allowed me to learn tricks and hacks to manage my money as efficiently as possible. In this episode, I’m sharing 6 productive ways to manage your money in 10 minutes a day or less. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend hours and hours on your finances to see results and reach your goals. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:55] If you haven’t started tracking your spending regularly, Raya breaks down the importance of doing so for growth in your finances. [04:16] Building the habit of tracking your spending daily will result in you spending minimal time on this task, but get maximum benefit. [07:50] Regularly looking at your budget makes sure you’re staying aligned with your goals and financial intentions. [11:34] Tie daily goals towards your bigger long-term goals. Break down those bigger goals, especially savings goals, into easier-to-manage chunks. [14:45] You don’t have to spend long hours and a lot of time working on your finances. You can make an impact with strategic short-and-sweet tasks. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Let Raya for you! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37244245

5 Ways to Overcome Analysis Paralysis and Start Taking Action 08/18/2025

5 Ways to Overcome Analysis Paralysis and Start Taking Action Have you ever wanted to do something but didn’t know what step to take first, so you start researching? Before you know it, research leads to too much information and you decide not to do the thing you originally wanted? Welcome to analysis paralysis. Analysis paralysis is when overthinking and over-analyzing a problem or decision prevents you from taking action. It's a state of being unable to move forward because you’re overwhelmed by data, options, or the fear of making a mistake. With so much information at our fingertips, it doesn’t take much to feel overwhelmed. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways to overcome analysis paralysis so you can start taking action towards the things you want to do or the problems you want to solve. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:51] While analysis paralysis isn’t something Raya struggles with, not seeking enough information has posed some problems for her in the past. [04:51] Let momentum from completing the first small step help you build the confidence you need to move forward without overwhelm. [07:58] Progress over perfection – easy concept to say but much harder to implement, especially for women. [11:34] Too many options often results in too much data to go through, decreasing your confidence in successfully making a decision. [14:31] Raya shares an example of how to pinpoint feelings associated with future goals or decisions to help you decide to move forward or not. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #57 – Listen to Episode #75 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37244205

Behind-the-Scenes of the CGS Team Retreat 08/11/2025

Behind-the-Scenes of the CGS Team Retreat I started City Girl Savings back in 2015, while I didn’t go-full time with running the business until 2021, I’ve had women working for me long before then. I always had the intention of hosting a team retreat, but the timing was never right. In 2024, I declared there would never be a “perfect” time, so I made the decision to get our dates on the calendar! I reached out to The CGS Team via slack to confirm dates nearly 8 months out. By the end of December, I received final RSVPs and started booking everything. In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the first ever CGS Team Retreat and how the overall weekend together went. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:53] In spite of working together since 2022, the CGS Team retreat was the first time CGS Team members met in person. [03:27] Meeting at Raya’s place in Palm Springs was a great location since 2 of the 5 CGS Team Members already lived in California. [07:00] Curious who the first one to fall asleep each night was? If you guessed Raya, you’re right! She shares some background on why that was. [10:03] The CGS Team proved they could work well together while trying to get off The Titanic during an Escape Room activity. [12:06] Before parting ways Sunday morning, the CGS Team had their final meal together at a local Palm Springs diner! 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode #77 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37244165

Pursuing Productivity with Non-Profit CEO and CGS Client Tiffany Tate 08/04/2025

Pursuing Productivity with Non-Profit CEO and CGS Client Tiffany Tate Is it just me, or does life almost seem to feel like one big balancing act? Between work, school, kids, families, partners, relationships, businesses, finances, and health, the older we get, the more we need to manage. I personally don’t think things will always be 100% in balance, but I do believe women can achieve the productivity results they want, without feeling like something has to give. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Non-Profit CEO and CGS Client Tiffany Tate today about pursuing top-tier productivity. Let me stress that high-level productivity isn’t about being perfect, it’s about making it all work for your world. If you struggle with the balancing act of all areas of life, you don’t want to miss this conversation. Here's a glance at this episode: [03:05] Tiffany shares that while life is what led her to becoming a go-getter, she does feel like she recently learned how to work smarter, not harder. [12:08] Being guilt-oriented has made it hard for Tiffany to follow traditional routines and habit ideologies. Instead, she shares what works for her. [21:50] Tiffany shares how compartmentalization has helped her power through and grow professionally, but offers words of caution. [34:37] Lessons, not losses. Tiffany shares that you must move forward with your decisions and learn from those that could be perceived as mistakes. [42:27] Instead of focusing far into the future, when thinking about goals, identify what needs to be fixed or worked on now. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Tiffany on Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/37244125

Mind Over Money: How a Healthy Mindset Fuels Financial Success 07/28/2025

Mind Over Money: How a Healthy Mindset Fuels Financial Success Part of my success in life has been attributed to seeing what I want and believing it’s possible for me. Having a vision of what I want, where I want to be, or who I want to be has helped me do what I need to on a day-to-day basis to get there. Seeing is believing, so if you can’t see yourself achieving your goals, you’re much less likely to actually reach them. The mind is a beautiful thing. If you start picturing yourself already having what you want, your brain will function to do things that will help you get there. In this episode, I’m sharing how a healthy mindset fuels success and some ways you can foster a healthy mindset to reach your financial goals. Financial success is possible, and you need to believe it before you achieve it! Here's a glance at this episode: [01:50] Do you think you are worthy of your dream life? Raya challenges listeners to get clear on how worthy they feel about the life of their dreams. [04:03] If you are constantly thinking you’re broke, you’re probably always spending money to affirm that you’re broke. Your mind is a powerful tool. [07:25] Raya shares that getting to the root of her gut issues has tremendously impacted her mindset because she’s consuming better things. [11:36] Picture yourself living your dream life. You must be able to see what it looks like for you so you believe it’s possible for you to achieve. [14:43] Raya shares that consistent journaling allows her to look back at old journal entries and see the growth that happens over time. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 101 – Listen to Episode 11 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36794335

5 Credit Habits to Cultivate a Strong Financial Foundation 07/21/2025

5 Credit Habits to Cultivate a Strong Financial Foundation As someone who has been in and out of debt multiple times, but now actively maintains an 800+ credit score, I can honestly say that credit plays a huge role in building a strong financial foundation. Having healthy credit habits can open the door for you to leverage credit to your advantage – whether that’s buying assets, increasing your cash flow, or using it for investment purposes. If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, don’t fret! You can start implementing credit habits now that cultivate a strong financial foundation. And, I want to help you do that! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 credit habits to build into your normal routine to cultivate a solid financial foundation. Remember, if I can do it, anyone else can too! Here's a glance at this episode: [01:50] Raya shares what her debt and credit situation looked like before she started focusing on building good credit habits. [05:20] Automation can be a life saver for anyone’s financial situation. Raya recommends setting up auto pay to make sure no bills are left behind. [08:31] Raya leveraged the Snowball Method to pay off her debt. She prefers putting extra money towards the smallest balance debt to pay it off faster. [13:51] Reviewing your credit report is not the same as looking at your credit score. Raya shares where everyone can pull their credit reports to review. [17:34] Raya strategically uses open, no-balance credit cards to get activity on the card without carrying monthly balances. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 15 – with Raya to discuss your money goals! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36794310

2025 Mid-Year Personal and Business Goals Check In 07/14/2025

2025 Mid-Year Personal and Business Goals Check In I can’t quite believe it, but we’ve reached the halfway point of another year. 2025 has been a whirlwind, and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way. Despite everything that may be happening outside of our control, we need to keep working towards our dream life…and hopefully the goals you’ve set for the year help you get there! At the end of 2024, I shared my personal and business goals for 2025, and since we’ve reached the halfway point of the year, I want to do a quick mid-year goal check in! This helps me stay on top of what I set out to accomplish in the year and holds me accountable by sharing with you! Hopefully this episode encourages you to do your own mid-year goals check in as well! Here's a glance at this episode: [02:10] Raya kicks off with sharing her personal goals for 2025 and the progress that has been made towards those goals. [04:40] One of Raya’s 2025 personal goals is to max out her Roth IRA. She has contributed $5500 of the $7000 needed to max out for the year. [07:44] Another personal goal for Raya is to read 2 books per month. Due to family coming into town, this goal is not on track, but Raya shares her plan for getting back on schedule. [10:07] While revenue is still a focus for business, Raya has shifted focus to increasing the profit margin for the business. Progress is being made this year. [12:30] Have a friend who would like this podcast? Help us reach our 2025 goals of getting 45,000 episode downloads! 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 157 – Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36794250

How Women Can Build Healthier Habits with Fitness Coach Michael Williams 07/07/2025

How Women Can Build Healthier Habits with Fitness Coach Michael Williams As I’ve gotten older, I’ve seen and felt the importance of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Not only do you feel better in the present, but you prevent future health problems from messing with your quality of life. I truly believe enhancing your mind and body with proper fuel is essential to a healthy quality of life. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Fitness Coach Michael Williams today. Michael is a certified personal trainer who specializes in women’s fat loss. While there’s so much more to being healthy than getting rid of body fat, a lot of the health and physical activity benefits will result in less fat! Michael and I are talking about the importance of prioritizing health for women, building healthier habits, and staying consistent with healthy living. Here's a glance at this episode: [04:40] Michael always leads with “why”. What’s your why for wanting to get in shape? Understanding that helps you stay on track. [12:43] Eating 1 or 2 meals a day doesn’t cut it for women. Michael shares what women need to do to see the fat loss results they want. [24:50] YouTube can be a great resource for learning how to properly train and lift weights, especially if you’re tight on funds. [31:40] Michael shares that the scale isn’t the best indicator of progress, especially if weightlifting is involved. “The scale is a liar”. [51:20] You don’t have to deprive yourself when you go out to eat, just do your best to plan your meals out as best as possible. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Michael on Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36794225

5 Ways to Reset Your Money Goals for the Rest of the Year 06/30/2025

5 Ways to Reset Your Money Goals for the Rest of the Year Are you on track with your money goals for this year? If you’re listening to this episode in real-time, then we’re wrapping up the first half of the year. What better time to assess your goal progress, acknowledge what’s working and not working, and reset your money goals for the rest of the year? Failing to take the time to assess your annual goal progress before the year ends can result in you not achieving your goal. Wouldn’t it be worth a little time to assess and finish the year off strong? Of course it would! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways to reset your money goals to get you through year end feeling as accomplished as possible. You may not hit each and every goal you’ve set, but I have no doubt serious progress will be made! Here's a glance at this episode: [02:08] Your money goals are never supposed to be a source of shame. Give yourself grace when things don’t go according to plan. [04:50] Reconnect with the “why” behind your goals. This is an important step for resetting because it will keep you focused on working towards your goals. [07:55] It’s okay to be optimistic with your goals, but it’s important to reset your goal based on where you currently stand. [10:24] Breaking your goals down into monthly milestones to make them much more attainable on a day-to-day basis. [13:30] Raya shares some examples for adding accountability into your life. Whatever that looks like for you, it’s an important step to reaching your goals. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Need help crushing the second half of the year? with Raya now! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36393540

Fighting Summer FOMO: 5 Hacks that Keep Me on Track with My Budget and Goals 06/23/2025

Fighting Summer FOMO: 5 Hacks that Keep Me on Track with My Budget and Goals There’s no denying that Summer brings the “let’s be OUTSIDE” energy! The sun is usually shining, the pool is calling our names, and the days are longer. If you’re not careful though, summer can do a number on your budget. You may be killing your money goals and then a few months of the summer season can undo all that progress. Don’t let that be you, my friend! Fight the summer FOMO and need to just spend without consequence. You’ll be so much better off for it! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 hacks that keep me on track with my budget and goals, especially when the summer season temptation is calling my name! Here's a glance at this episode: [01:43] FOMO stands for Fear of Missing Out. Summer is primetime for FOMO. Raya shares how to identify Summer FOMO. [04:23] Summer is a vibe, so acting like you won’t spend money in the summer season is a recipe for disaster. Instead, plan for summer fun spending. [07:11] No matter where you live, you can always find something free happening in your area or in surrounding areas. [11:00] Be honest and open about your budget and money goals. Communicate with your friends or family when you’re trying to avoid excess spending. [15:13] Tracking your spending every day or two doesn’t sound exciting in the summer, but it can be instrumental in keeping you on financial track. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Don’t have a budget? Grab a copy of my FREE ! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36393515

Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Reevaluate Your Spending Habits 06/16/2025

Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Reevaluate Your Spending Habits Who doesn’t love summer vibes?! Remember the days when summer meant no school and nothing to do? Oh, how I miss those times! I used to live my best life in the summer – all the way up until graduating college. Then, real life happened, and summer became no different from any other season. But that’s not 100% true. In fact, summer is the perfect time to reevaluate your spending habits, because the season usually starts right around the middle of the year. Whether you set annual goals or not, pulse checking on your spending and money habits midway through the year will leave you with enough time to implement any changes that may be needed in your finances. In this episode, I’m sharing why summer is the perfect time to reevaluate your spending habits, and how you can go about doing it! Here's a glance at this episode: [02:00] Want to save some extra money this summer? Join the Free 4-week Summer Savings Challenge now! [03:30] Summer is a great time to see how you’re making progress towards your annual goals and intentions. Raya shares some questions you can ask yourself. [05:43] Summer usually comes with its own spending temptations, this means being mindful and intentional is a must. [10:17] Don’t know where to start when it comes to budgeting and tracking your spending? Raya offers an easy solution for listeners. [14:00] Whatever you discover about your summer spending habits, create a new summer money rule to follow for future summer seasons. 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Join the upcoming FREE 4-week ! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36393465

6 Ways to Set Financial Boundaries and Stick to Them 06/09/2025

6 Ways to Set Financial Boundaries and Stick to Them Here’s the thing: we all need boundaries. In our health, work, relationships, and finances…we need boundaries. Boundaries are there to protect your peace and prevent you from causing unnecessary harm. Setting financial boundaries is especially important because they keep you on the straight and narrow. They keep you focused on doing the things that will help you reach your financial goals. If you struggle with setting financial boundaries, you don’t want to miss this episode! I’m sharing 6 ways to set financial boundaries and actually stick to them. As your situation changes, your boundaries change…but always having those limits will keep you moving in the direction of your goals. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:59] Raya shares how failing to set financial boundaries back in college resulted in her overspending on material things, leading her deep into debt. [04:35] Boundaries, especially financial boundaries, are there to alert you when you’re moving in the direction of stress and negativity. They are designed to help keep you on track. [09:58] Get comfortable with saying “That’s not in my budget”, so when something comes up, you can easily decline with an affirmative statement. [14:09] Know where you stand when it comes to lending or gifting money, so you can avoid rushed or emotional decisions. [17:26] If you want to stick to your boundaries (financial or otherwise), you need to learn how to clearly communicate 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, , 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 , , and ! Resources mentioned in this episode: Join the upcoming FREE 4-week ! Learn about Raya’s Follow City Girl Savings on , , and Join the Subscribe to the ! /episode/index/show/citygirlsavings/id/36393415

City Girl Savings | Budgeting, Money Management, and Goal Setting Tips for Women

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