When most people think of artificial intelligence, they picture futuristic robots or complex financial systems for major corporations. But AI has already woven itself into the very heart of our everyday money habits. And it is happening without us even realizing it. From simplifying budgeting to analyzing data, AI is changing how we approach financial decisions, making smart money management accessible, intuitive, and more effective than ever. We've even used it in our own financial life recently.

Listen in to hear all of the ways to maximize your financial life using AI and how we did too!

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We were young and eager to become homeowners. We qualified, found the perfect house, and scraped together just enough for the down payment. But once we settled in, started growing our family, and lived a little life, we quickly realized one thing: homeownership is expensive. There are hidden costs that often catch new homeowners off guard.

The truth is, owning a home comes with expenses that many don’t fully anticipate. Understanding these "hidden costs" is crucial. It's not just to keep your finances in order, but to ensure long-term peace of mind.

Here we break down the unexpected expenses of homeownership and how to plan for them.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

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Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Online shopping makes it easier than ever to fill our carts with things we don’t really need. This year's Amazon Prime Day was actually 4 DAYS not one! So obviously you have more time to search, explore, and spend. Amazon has become the definition of impulse spending and impulsive spending can quickly derail your financial goals.

But the good news? You can take control of your spending habits. Here’s how to differentiate needs from wants, resist marketing traps, and stay focused on what really matters.

Listen in to hear our take on how to overcome impulse spending.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

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Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially when you're in your 40s and 50s. This stage of life often comes with competing financial demands—raising kids, caring for aging parents, and maintaining a household. However, it’s also a crucial time to focus on your financial future. By making strategic choices now, you can set yourself up for a comfortable retirement while alleviating many long-term worries.

In this episode we explore some actionable steps to take control of your financial planning and make the most of your resources. We believe one smart move in particular will bring the most peace of mind during this season. Listen to find out what that one is...

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

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Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Summer is a season of sunshine, adventure, and making family memories. But, let's face it—between vacations, camps, meals out, and attractions, summer fun could come with a hefty price tag. Here’s the good news: with a little creativity and thoughtful planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable summer packed with adventure, laughter, and connection without going over budget or derailing your financial goals.

Although our kids are out of the house we understand the dilemma most families face trying to keep kids engaged.

Listen to this week's episode to make the most of free or low-cost local activities, unlock the secrets of travel hacking, and make intentional choices to keep costs in check—all while staying true to what really matters.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

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Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. These challenges—whether they come as unexpected medical bills, job loss, or even the emotional toll of divorce—can shake our foundations and take a heavy toll on our finances.

When your finances start to feel out of control, it can seem impossible to find your footing again. But the truth is, no matter how overwhelming things seem, there is a way forward.

Listen in to hear about some simple ways to regain financial control and clarity after it has been lost.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

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Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

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Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung

For many of us, owning a car with monthly payments feels as normal as paying rent or utilities. It’s just how people buy cars, right? But what if accepting this as the norm is actually holding us back from financial freedom?

Car loans, often touted as manageable “good debt,” are still debt. They tie up our income month after month, sometimes for years, in exchange for a rapidly depreciating asset. It’s time to challenge this mindset and explore a path to car ownership that doesn’t involve life-draining payments.

Tune in to this episode to hear about how we navigated vehicle purchases and what it could be costing you to keep them long-term.

Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com

Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have

Check out our local TV spotlight

Connect with us:

Instagram: @forbetterandworth

YouTube: @forbetterandworth

Ericka: @erickayoungofficial

Chris: @1cbyoung