Tired of complicated budgeting systems that never stick? On this podcast eisode, I’m sharing my exact monthly budgeting routine; from reviewing last month’s numbers to planning for irregular expenses and closing out the month with reflection.

This is a realistic, flexible approach to budgeting that actually works. Whether you’re just getting started or want to refresh your process, these steps will help you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.

What you’ll learn:

• How I start with a financial reflection, not shame
• My method for planning income (even with variable pay!)
• Why I budget for my goals first before any expenses
• How I build a realistic, values-aligned spending plan
• The importance of planning for irregular expenses
• Why I track my budget weekly (not daily!)
• How I close out each month to stay consistent

This budgeting routine is simple, sustainable, and designed to help you make real financial progress. No perfect templates. Just a system that works.

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On this episode of the podcast, I’m breaking down 7 everyday financial habits that seem harmless—but are quietly draining your bank account, delaying your progress, and keeping you stuck in stress mode.

From only saving what’s left over, to using credit cards like income, to ignoring your actual numbers, these habits might be the reason you’re not hitting your financial goals. No judgment, just real talk and practical fixes to turn things around.

You'll Learn:

• Why paying yourself first is a game changer
• How minimum payments are costing you thousands
• What to do instead of emotional sale shopping
• Why lifestyle inflation keeps you stuck
• How to shift from credit card dependency
• The power of knowing your numbers
• Why you don’t need a lot of money to start investing

🎯 These are the mindset shifts and action steps that will help you build real wealth—starting now.

❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motivation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe

❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books

❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages

❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog

❤ Follow us on Instagram: @clevergirlfinance

On this episode of the podcast, we’re joined by powerhouse entrepreneur and Fortune 500 sales veteran Mara Dorne to talk about going From Rock Bottom to $1B. Mara shares her incredible journey from financial struggle to building a billion-dollar sales career and becoming a self-made millionaire by 35.

She opens up about the mindset shifts, intentional money moves, and fearless leadership strategies that helped her rise in a male-dominated industry. As the founder of the BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow) podcast and leader of a nationwide team of over 1,500 health insurance agents, Mara is on a mission to empower women to lead boldly, build wealth with purpose, and redefine what success looks like, on their own terms.

What Mara Discussed on the Podcast:

• Her personal story, career background, and the defining moments that shaped her journey.
• How hitting rock bottom sparked the transformation that led to $1B+ in sales.
• The financial mindset shifts that were key to building lasting wealth.
• Lessons learned from leading large teams as a woman in a male-dominated industry.
• The impact of the 2008 financial crisis on her approach to money, risk, and resilience.
• Encouragement for women looking to lead with confidence despite fear, finances, or imposter syndrome.
• How she cultivates high-performing teams and integrates financial education into leadership.
• What intentional money management looks like in both her personal and professional life.
• How to turn purpose into profitable and sustainable business ventures.

AND SO MUCH MORE

How to Keep Up With Mara:

• Follow on Instagram: @maradorne
• Listen and follow the podcast: @bilfpod

❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motivation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe

❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books

❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages

❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog

❤ Follow us on Instagram: @clevergirlfinance