In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I’m back with the one and only Professor Steve Heath for another round of Money School and this time we’re diving into budgeting. But not the boring kind. Prof. Heath kicks things off with one of the wildest stories I’ve ever heard (yes, it involves a trunk and a concert) to explain how most people handle money: unconsciously, passively, and sometimes disastrously.

We break down the budgeting triangle: money in, money out, and what’s left. Along the way, we talk about mindset shifts, the trap of lifestyle creep, why "50 percent off" can still mean broke, and how to actually use your income to build a life you love. This isn’t just about cutting back. It’s about being intentional, making smart choices, and aligning your spending with your goals. Whether you're a college student, creative, or parent like me, this episode is packed with laughs, real talk, and tools you can use right now.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial coach Angie Carlson to explore the tools couples need to overcome money miscommunication, break free from guilt, and build a real financial partnership. Angie and I dive into how childhood money stories shape our behavior as adults, why so many couples feel like they’re rowing in circles, and how to shift from blame to teamwork. Drawing from her personal journey and her Agree & Achieve coaching method, Angie shares powerful, practical advice for navigating financial stress, making decisions together, and building wealth—without shame.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I had an amazing conversation with Chris Harcksen-Lucero, a flight paramedic and financial coach with a really unique story. We talked about how resilience isn't just important in life — it's critical for your finances too. Chris shared how his background in emergency response shaped the way he thinks about money, mindset, and bouncing back from challenges. We dove into how the stories we tell ourselves about money can either hold us back or help us grow, why an abundance mindset is so important, and how facing a little bit of struggle can actually make you financially stronger. This episode is packed with insights and real-world advice for anyone looking to build financial resilience and a stronger future.