Most budgeting advice is… kind of useless. Not because it’s wrong, but because it’s so generic.

👉 “Spend less than you earn.” Cool, groundbreaking.
👉 “Stick to a budget.” Okay, but how??

The truth is, everyone’s budget looks different. That’s why we thought it would be fun (and hopefully helpful!) to take you inside our actual budgets.

Roth IRAs are everywhere in personal finance advice, but what makes them so special? 

In this episode, we’re breaking it all down — answering listener-submitted questions about how to open one, when to contribute, and why people won’t stop talking about them.

How to merge finances with your partner.

Last week, we tackled the should you merge finances? debate. This week, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty: how to actually do it.

Merging finances sounds simple until you’re in the thick of it and wondering:

• How do we split expenses fairly?

• What do we do about savings?

• Who’s in charge of paying the bills?

• Do we need a joint account? Multiple accounts? None??

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the logistics, we’ve been there. And today, we’re walking you through how to set up a system that actually works for you and your partner.

Should you merge finances with your partner? 

Money is one of the spiciest topics in relationships, and merging finances? That’s where things can get real messy.

Some people believe not merging finances means you don’t trust your partner. Others think combining everything is a fast track to financial disaster. So… what’s the right move?

In this episode, we’re diving deep into:

• How we personally handle finances with our partners (full merge? partial merge? separate?)

• The morality debate—Is it wrong not to merge? Does separate money mean less trust?

• Real stories from couples who merged (and those who didn’t)

• The different ways couples can structure their finances — so you can decide what works for you

Plus, we share an anonymous listener-submitted story about how merging finances went wrong — and what they wish they had done differently.

🎧 Tune in now to get the full conversation, and don’t forget to catch next week’s episode, where we dive into the logistics of merging finances!

💸 Ever wondered what it actually takes to pay off student loans fast?

In this episode of The Finance Girlies, Cassidy shares her journey of paying off $18,000 in student loan debt in just 10 months—what worked, what didn’t, and what she’d do differently now.

And whether you’re drowning in student loans or just looking for money strategies that actually work, you’ll walk away with plenty of ideas (and maybe a few “wow, I did what?!” moments from Cassidy’s past frugal habits).

This episode is all about the dreaded D word — debt! Tune in as Cassidy and Emily unpack their personal philosophies on debt — from tackling high-interest loans to deciding when it’s okay to carry debt. They break down what terms like “good debt” and “bad debt” really mean (and why they might not be the best way to think about borrowing). Plus, they share practical tools for evaluating your debt and how to prioritize paying it off without shame or stress.

Tune in for relatable insights, some eye-opening stats, and actionable advice to help you take control of your financial story.

In the final episode of the Finance Girlies podcast for 2024, hosts Emily and Cassidy reflect on their favorite moments of the year by answering rapid-fire questions. 

They discuss their top books, best and worst purchases, goals for next year, new hobbies, and personal achievements. Emily shares her journey with doggy daycare and buying a new car, while Cassidy talks about a cozy new home and her love for crocheting. 

Join them as they wrap up the year with a heartfelt look back and plans for the future.

In this Finance Girlies podcast episode, we share practical tips and personal stories on how to give meaningful, budget-friendly gifts during the holidays without feeling like a Scrooge.

From using credit card points and setting gift budgets to DIY crafts and thoughtful low-waste options, we explore various strategies to keep holiday spending under control.

We also discuss how to approach gift exchanges with financial consciousness and suggestions for inexpensive yet valuable gifts like food items, homemade crafts, and personalized mugs. Tune in for our top five pieces of advice and a rapid-fire list of creative gift ideas.

In this episode of the Finance Girlies Podcast, host Cassidy Horton shares her financial and professional journey. Cassidy recounts her transition from a struggling college student with debt to a successful freelance personal finance copywriter earning over $100,000. She and Emily discuss the importance of financial planning, overcoming early career challenges, and the role of a supportive community. Cassidy highlights her experience with budgeting, managing student loans, and making career decisions like pursuing an MBA. Listen in on Cassidy shares how increasing her income and taking calculated risks have transformed her financial life. 

In this episode, co-hosts Cassidy and Emily give their top banking tips to help you maximize your savings and choose the right bank accounts. They discuss how many accounts you need, the benefits of high-yield savings accounts, and how to avoid fees and find good customer service. Learn the pros and cons of local credit unions versus online banks, and get practical advice on managing cash deposits and online banking. With personal stories and actionable tips, you'll be equipped to make smart banking choices and optimize your finances.

In this episode of The Finance Girlies, Emily and Cassidy unpack their lifelong journeys with money—from childhood perceptions shaped by family and experiences to adult financial habits. They discuss the swings between spending and saving, the impact of early financial fears, and the challenge of finding a healthy balance. 

In this episode, we get to know Emily Batdorf, one half of The Finance Girlies duo. Emily shares her journey from outdoor educator to freelance personal finance writer, her reasons behind the transition, and how she managed her own finances along the way.  Emily highlights her experience with saving, opening a retirement account, and making career decisions that align with her values. Listen in as Emily shares how broadening her financial knowledge and taking calculated risks changed her relationship with work and money.