Women & Money: The Shit We Don't Talk About!

40 Episodes
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By: Barbara Provost & Maggie Nielsen

"We will never solve the feminization of power until we solve the masculinity of wealth." - Gloria Steinem. On this podcast, we're going to call out those ways that women are consistently left behind financially. But most importantly, how women can help themselves. Join hosts Barbara Provost & Maggie Nielsen as they help you navigate the ins and outs of financial independence so that you can be financially fearless. They'll connect you with helpful resources and compelling stories from women all across the country. Whether it's buying a house, preparing for retirement, dealing with divorce, there won't be a single question...

Financial (and other) Truths About Egg Freezing with Aliza Virani
#105
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Do you feel the pressure of your biological clock ticking and wonder about the expenses of freezing your eggs? This week, we’re discussing a topic that’s rarely talked about, but deeply personal, financially hefty, and emotionally loaded: egg freezing.

Our guest, Aliza Virani, knows this world intimately. After freezing her own eggs in Canada, facing sky-high costs, and a rollercoaster of emotions, she turned her personal experience into something groundbreaking: The Fertility Co-Living Retreat in Mexico City.


Financial (and other) Truths About Egg Freezing with Aliza Virani
#105
Today at 9:00 AM

Send us a text

Do you feel the pressure of your biological clock ticking and wonder about the expenses of freezing your eggs? This week, we’re discussing a topic that’s rarely talked about, but deeply personal, financially hefty, and emotionally loaded: egg freezing.

Our guest, Aliza Virani, knows this world intimately. After freezing her own eggs in Canada, facing sky-high costs, and a rollercoaster of emotions, she turned her personal experience into something groundbreaking: The Fertility Co-Living Retreat in Mexico City.


The Math of Motherhood with Cindy DiTiberio
#104
08/08/2025

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Parenting is of course expensive, but are you aware of the true costs of motherhood? 

In this episode, we sit down with Cindy DiTiberio, the author of the bestselling Substack The Mother Lode (a feminist exploration of motherhood, marriage and divorce) and a New York Times bestselling collaborator and editor who has worked in publishing for over twenty years. Cindy’s writing has appeared in The Lily, Scary Mommy, Literary Mama, Mutha Magazine, and more. She was the inaugural guest on...


Debunking the Bankruptcy Myths with Adrienne Hines
#103
08/01/2025

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Think bankruptcy means failure? Think again.

In this episode,  we sit down with Adrienne Hines, a seasoned bankruptcy attorney and relatable straight-shooter who’s using TikTok to make financial freedom feel possible again.

Adrienne discusses how societal stigma and misinformation prevent people from seeing bankruptcy as a viable financial tool. The conversation covers the emotional burden of debt, different types of bankruptcy, and the myths surrounding bankruptcy's impact on a person's future. Adrienne explains that bankruptcy can significantly improve credit sco...


The Money Moves You Wish You Made Sooner with Bola Sokunbi
#102
07/25/2025

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If you've ever felt guilt around money decisions, or unsure of how to take control of your finances, this conversation is going to speak right to your soul.

Bola Sokunbi is a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI), finance expert, bestselling author of the books, "Choosing To Prosper", "My Wealth Plan Workbook", and the 3-part Clever Girl Finance Book Series, speaker, and founder of Clever Girl Finance, one of the largest personal finance media/education platforms for women in the U.S.

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The ADHD Friendly Approach to Budgeting, Saving & Thriving with Nicole Stanley
#101
07/18/2025

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What if your biggest money struggles weren’t because you’re “bad with money” but because your brain just works differently?

In this episode, we are joined by Nicole Stanley, the owner and head money coach at Arise Financial Coaching. Her mission? Shame-free, accessible financial education that empowers women. As a Latina entrepreneur and personal finance expert, Nicole paid off significant debt and grew her family’s net worth through investing. This sparked her passion for helping women build wealth and transform their communities.

She discus...


The Wake-Up Call We Can’t Ignore with Candy Wolff, Claudia Porter, and Amy Salo
#100
07/11/2025

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 When life throws the unexpected, how do you financially prepare and respond?

In the milestone 100th episode of 'Women and Money, the Shit We Don't Talk About,' we celebrate our journey featuring three previous guests, all inspiring women; Candy Wolff, Claudia Porter, and Amy Salo. Together they’re again sharing their impactful stories of financial struggle and resilience, but this time with combined insight.

Candy shares the emotional and financial whirlwind of losing her husband unexpectedly and how she took charge of her fina...


Salary Negotiation Secrets from a Pro with Tami Palmer
#99
06/27/2025

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What if you could ask for more, without second-guessing?

In this episode of Women in Money: The Shit We Don't Talk About, we dig into one of the most overlooked tools in your professional toolbox: salary negotiation. Whether you’re gearing up for a raise, considering a new role, or just tired of leaving money (and energy) on the table—this one’s for you.

We sat down with Tami Palmer, who brings 15 years of experience in staffing and HR. Tami offers insights, advice, and tactics to help h...


The Truth About Women and Retirement with Samantha Hart
#98
06/20/2025

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What if you suddenly had to manage all your finances alone? Would you be ready?

In this episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, we talk with Samantha Hart, Director of Marketing Content Strategy at North American Company for Life and Health Insurance. Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Sam spent 20 years in media and publishing before joining North American, where she leads a team focused on spreading awareness about annuities and financial opportunities.

Sam brings a fresh, passionate perspective on the re...


From $1,600 to Millionaire Before 40 with Laurie Itkin
#97
06/13/2025

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What if the key to financial independence and peace of mind was simply knowing where your money goes every month?

In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Laurie Itkin, a financial advisor and certified divorce financial analyst (CDFA). She is also the author of the Amazon best-seller, Every Woman Should Know Her Options: Invest Your Way to Financial Empowerment. Investopedia named Ms. Itkin one of the top 100 most influential financial advisors in the country. Laurie’s not just an expert, she’s live...


The 5-Step Wealth-Building Framework with Annie Cole
#96
06/06/2025

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Most people rely solely on their job (and maybe a retirement account) to build wealth. But here’s the truth: there are 5 powerful areas anyone can tap into to take control of their financial future!

In this episode, we're so excited to introduce Annie Cole- financial coach, founder of Money Essentials for Women, and author of 101 Ways to Build Wealth in Your 30s. Annie walks us through her own inspiring journey from social work to financial independence, including some major career pivots and the moment she decided to start investing.

...


Value-Based Money Moves with Allie Beckmann
#95
05/30/2025

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If you’re a freelancer, self-employed, or working without traditional benefits, the idea of long term planning can feel overwhelming. If you’re just starting out, navigating a major transition professionally, or feeling like you’re just trying to survive financially, how are you ever supposed to plan for retirement? 

In this episode of Women & Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, we sit down with Allie Beckmann, the founder of Beckmann Financial, where mission-driven individuals and business owners are empowered to use money as a tool to turn t...


Falling In Love With Spending After Divorce With Erica Bennett
#94
05/23/2025

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In this episode, we are joined by Erica Bennett (your favorite Crazy Ex-Wife), a global training guru, success architect, and a woman obsessed with helping you rewire the fear that is holding you back. As her community insinuates,  Erica specializes in helping divorced women navigate their healing journey from personal experience. With over 20 years of training and coaching, Erica brings her blend of “woo and do” to help you line up with your desires and take action for your success.

She shares her personal journey from a high-powered corpo...


Shifting Your Money Mindset with Rachel Durci
#93
05/16/2025

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Do you find yourself constantly saving, worried that spending a dime will lead to financial disaster? Or maybe you’ve been taught that money is meant for security, but never really questioned what that means for your happiness today? 


In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Durci, a Financial Wellness Coach & the Founder of Effortless Budgeting. She is passionate about supporting individuals & couples on reaching their financial goals through coaching, education & encouragement. 


Rachel explains that before you set...


The Sh*t We’ve Learned as a Mother-Daughter Duo with Barb and Maggie
#92
05/09/2025

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What’s it really like behind the scenes to build a business with your mom or your daughter? And how do the money stories we grew up with shape the way we lead, spend, and show up today?

In this special Mother’s Day episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, it’s just us- Barb and Maggie! We’re the mother-daughter duo behind Purse Strings, and today we’re opening up in a more personal way. No guest, no script, j...


Setting Your Family Up for Financial Success with Elaine King
#91
05/02/2025

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In this episode, we’re joined by financial expert Elaine King, the founder of Family and Money Matters™, with the mission of empowering the family’s financial and human capital to achieve financial wellbeing. She has served as the Family’s Financial Planner for over 1,200 families and 100 multigenerational family enterprises crafting actionable family financial plans. 

Elaine shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Peru amidst high inflation and terrorism to becoming a financial planner and advocate for financial literacy. She provides valuable tips on making money a positive...


Confidence and Money with Sheena Yap Chan
#90
04/25/2025

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Money and confidence go hand in hand, but too often, women are expected to do it all without being paid what they’re worth.


In this episode, we’re focused on embracing who you are, inspired by our reflections and the incredible story of our guest today, Sheena Yap Chan. Sheena is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster, renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. She is the founder and host of the acclaimed podcast,


Student Loans 101: What Every Borrower Needs to Know with Elaine Rubin
#89
04/18/2025

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Ever wondered why student loans feel like a black hole of debt?


In this episode of 'Women and Money - The Shit We Don’t Talk About', we cover the often overwhelming topic of student loans with our guest, Elaine Rubin. Elaine is a bilingual student loan and financial aid expert with more than 15 years of experience in federal and private student aid. 


Elaine shares her personal experiences with student loan debt, offering strategies for...


Real Estate Success without Burnout with Karen Cooper
#88
04/11/2025

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Do your brilliant ideas come to you while you’re in the shower?


In this episode of 'Women and Money: The Shit We Don't Talk About’, we’re talking about turning great ideas into action with our guest Karen Cooper. Karen is a wife, mom to three sons, and the co-owner of the Platinum Group Real Estate Team at Real Brokerage, alongside her business partner Vicky Noufal. Based in Northern Virginia, their powerhouse team of 50+ exceptional women and moms now serves client...


Small Steps, Big Financial Gains with Barb and Maggie
#87
04/04/2025

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Ever feel like financial freedom is a distant dream? Think again! 


In this episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don't Talk About, we uncover how tiny, consistent actions can lead to significant financial progress. We kick things off by reflecting on the remarkable Women's History Month event, highlighting the importance of honoring our favorite women in history who got us here. We discuss the practical, everyday steps you can take- like budgeting smarter, negotiating your salary, and automating your savings. 


Pouring Profits: The Financial Journey of a Craft Distillery Founder with Sonja Kassebaum
#86
03/28/2025

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Why is it so hard for women to talk about money- especially in industries still dominated by men?

In this episode, we sit down with Sonja, the co-owner and co-founder of North Shore Distillery.  She and her husband built their business from the ground up, learning firsthand the unique challenges women face in financial and entrepreneurial spaces. 

She shares her journey navigating the finances while building a company with her husband. There are hard truths about being a woman in a space where men st...


Financial Confidence from First Job to Retirement with Galia Gichon
#85
03/21/2025

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What’s the #1 money move every woman needs to make? 

Whether you’re just starting your career, navigating a divorce, or planning for retirement, developing financial confidence is critical. In this episode, we’re talking through the must-know money strategies for women- because life happens, and you need to be prepared.

Our guest today is Galia Gichon- an independent financial expert with over 20 years in the industry, including nearly a decade on Wall Street. She’s also an angel investor, educator...


Women, Money & Power: The Fight for Financial Independence with Barb and Maggie
#84
03/14/2025

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W NOTES

If they don’t give you a seat at the table… you bring a damn folding chair. That’s the energy we’re bringing today, because March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect, celebrate, and most importantly, keep pushing forward. 

March is the third month of the year, so we thought, what better way to honor this month than by highlighting 3 powerful women from history, 3 modern trailblazers carrying that same fight, and 3 women who will be leading us the day this ep...


Warning Signs and Red Flags of Financial Abuse with Jennifer Solarte
#83
03/07/2025

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Many women don’t realize they’re in an abusive situation until they’re deep in it. The warning signs? The red flags? Jennifer Solarte has seen them firsthand, both in her own life and in the women she helps. She’s experienced all kinds of abuse, and now, she’s sharing her story and the key warning signs to watch for in this episode.


Jennifer is an author, entrepreneur, trauma life coach, reiki master, somatic practitioner, and speaker who is passionate about helping women live their...


Heal Your Relationship with Money with Kara Stevens
#82
02/28/2025

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What’s your first memory of money? Was it something exciting, scary, or stressful? If you’ve ever felt guilt, shame, or even anxiety when it comes to finances, you are NOT alone. And guess what? The way you think about money today has everything to do with your past.

In this episode, we sit down with Kara Stevens- a powerhouse in the world of financial wellness, blending her expertise in economics, education, and social justice to empower women of color to heal their rela...


Financial Abuse Is Domestic Violence with Leah Davis
#81
02/21/2025

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Did you know that financial abuse is one of the biggest reasons people stay trapped in harmful relationships? It doesn’t leave bruises, but it can be just as devastating. It’s about control, manipulation, and keeping someone powerless. So what does it actually look like, and how do you break free?

On this episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, we are thrilled to welcome Leah Davis, the founder of Leah Davis Coaching. Leah is a wealth and wellne...


Planning Parental Leave for Entrepreneurs with Audrey Hutnick
#79
02/14/2025

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What if you were a small business owner, about to have a baby, and had no idea how to keep your business running while taking time off to focus on your family?


In this episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, we are joined by Audrey Hutnick, founder of Small Wave Consulting, who specializes in helping women entrepreneurs create business strategies that work for life’s big transitions—like maternity leave. We talk through the real strugg...


How to Avoid Common Divorce Mistakes with Rhonda Noordyk
#78
02/07/2025

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Feeling overwhelmed by the financial aspect of divorce? First, you’re not alone and second, this episode is for you!


Meet Rhonda Noordyk, a passionate financial advocate dedicated to helping women navigate the challenges of divorce with confidence and clarity.


Rhonda has worked with so many women who feel like they’ve lost confidence with money after a divorce. She reminds us to give ourselves some grace because it’s a process. You don’t have t...


Divorced, Broke, AND a $2 Million Tax Bill with Barbara Huson
#77
01/31/2025

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What if you found yourself divorced with three little girls, your gambler husband disappeared overseas, and a $2 million tax bill landed in your mailbox? Oh—and you knew nothing about managing money?

In this episode of Women and Money: The Shit We Don’t Talk About, we welcome Barbara Huson, a renowned financial expert, author, and advocate for women’s financial empowerment. With decades of experience and seven impactful books under her belt, Barbara shares her personal journey from financial dependence to freedom and offers...


4 Money Mindsets to Achieve Your Financial Goals with Barb and Maggie
#76
01/24/2025

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What we spend our money on shows where our priorities live, but what if your spending habits aren’t aligned with the life you want to build? This is where mindset comes into play. Mindset is the key to unlocking your financial potential. 


Your money mindset is everything when it comes to achieving your financial dreams and creating the future you desire. In this episode, we dive deep into 4 key mindsets that will help you take control of your finances and set yourself up for lon...


Generational Wealth for Women of Color with Lissa Prudencio
01/17/2025

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In this episode, we welcome Lissa Prudencio, a personal finance expert, certified financial planner, and accredited financial counselor, and the Founder of Wealth for Women of Color,  who transitioned from the tech industry to finance to help women, especially women of color, learn the foundations of money and build wealth. 

Lissa discusses the importance of consistently learning about finances, especially in an era where advice is abundant but often contradictory. She emphasizes the need to find financial voices that resonate with you and guide you toward informed decisions. One key topic Li...


How to Build Your 2025 Financial Future with Cary Carbonaro
01/10/2025

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Ready to make 2025 your year of financial freedom? 

Let’s face it: when it comes to money, fear and uncertainty hold many of us back from truly thriving. But what if this could be the year you take control and become financially fearless? This episode is packed with strategies, tips, and inspiration from our incredible guest, Cary, who’s here to guide you every step of the way.

Cary Carbonaro, a certified financial planner with over 25 years of experience in guiding women to financial independence, helping them gain...


Starting 2025 with Purpose with Barb and Maggie
01/03/2025

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Welcome to 2025! In this special New Year’s episode, we’re diving into a fresh start with reflections on 2024, exciting updates for our podcast, and inspiration to take action on your financial goals. This year, we’re all about building a strong community, empowering women to take control of their finances, and making progress—one step at a time.

In this episode, we reflect on the incredible milestones of 2024, including our first in-person event, which brought together women from all walks of life to share their stories of financia...


The Ins and Outs of Real Estate Investing with Michelle Schroeder
12/27/2024

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Our guest today is Michelle Schroeder, a licensed real estate broker and realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in the Chicagoland area. She’s not your average realtor—Michelle brings years of experience and expertise, with a strong background in real estate investing and property renovations.

We’re excited to have her on the show to walk us through the ins and outs of real estate investing—from buying your first property to building a portfolio that sets you up for long-term financial growth. We’ll discuss how to find the right investment...


Rethinking the Holidays: Thoughtful Spending & Intentional Traditions
12/12/2024

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As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of shopping, gifting, and planning. But what if this year, we took a step back and approached the festivities with a more thoughtful and intentional mindset? In this episode of Women and Money, let’s dive into the holiday shopping conversation with two people who aren’t big on gift-giving- Barb and Maggie!

We’ll talk about conscious consumerism and discuss alternative ways to celebrate the season that focus on connection and meaning rather than material things...


Raising Money-Savvy Kids with Jamie Bosse CFP®, RFC, CCFC
11/26/2024

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Today’s episode is perfect for parents looking to raise money-savvy kids! We are joined by CFP®, RFC, CCFC and author, Jamie Bosse, who is on a mission to help families tackle one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics: teaching kids about money.

For the past six years, Jamie has helped make financial literacy fun and approachable for families through her engaging books, like, Milton the Money Savvy Pup. Listen in as she shares some creative strategies for introducing essential money concepts to children- like budgeting, saving, and even underst...


Coffee Talks: Closet Revamps + Self-Investment
11/07/2024

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This week’s episode is a bit different from the usual- we wanted to catch up with you all and share a few fun life updates! 

With exciting events and conferences around the corner, Barbara decided it was time for a closet refresh (and Maggie scored some great new finds, too!). Enter Annie, the stylist who helped Barbara step out of her comfort zone and find the perfect pieces to revamp her wardrobe. It was a fun experience and, for Barb, well worth the investment. 

Tune in as we shar...


Taking Small Steps Forward: Building Financial Independence with Susan Washburn
10/24/2024

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Our guest today is Susan Washburn, CFP®, CeFT®, JD, Senior Financial Advisor of ProVise Management Group. Forced to rebuild her life after Hurricane Katrina and an unexpected divorce, Susan found herself feeling overwhelmed and lost in the world of finance. Instead of letting this define her, she decided to get smart about money and pursue a career in financial planning.

Today, Susan helps women take ownership of their financial lives. Join us as we discuss the importance of setting personal financial goals, seeking out supportive financial professionals, and, most importantly, taking sm...


The Rise of the Female Breadwinner with Tiffany Irving
10/17/2024

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We’re excited to be joined by Tiffany Irving, CFP®, CEPA®, Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor at Mesirow Wealth Management. She is also a first-generation college graduate, the daughter of a single mother and a mother herself. There are so many aspects of her journey that many of us can relate to, and today, we’ll dive into her experience being the primary breadwinner in her household. 

In a world where more women are navigating the responsibilities of being the primary earner, we thought this would be an insightful conversation to brin...


Financial First Steps for Newly Widowed Individuals with Carolyn Howard
09/26/2024

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This week’s guest is Carolyn Howard, a certified financial planner and senior wealth manager at Accurate Advisory Group, as well as one of our Purse Strings-approved professionals. Having personally navigated the challenges of widowhood, she brings invaluable expertise to those facing the same difficult path.

After her late husband fell ill and passed away within just ten months, Carolyn faced profound grief and a sense of paralysis, even with her extensive financial knowledge. This experience fueled her passion for helping other families navigate similar situations. 

Today, her mission is...