Paula’s Story | From 'Financial Mess' to Wealth 3 Creation
Welcome to MONEYO2, where we bring you real stories and actionable insights to empower your financial journey. In this episode, we talk with Paula Peralta, Artistic Director at John Paul Mitchell Systems, entrepreneur, and hairdresser by trade. Paula candidly shares how she faced a serious financial mess, owing more than five years of taxes, and how a breakthrough moment of confronting her financial reality set her on a path to transformation.
Today, Paula is thriving—earning more than ever before and celebrating a major milestone: purchasing her own home in Los Angeles. Her story is a testament to resilience, planning, and the power of taking control of your finances.
Paula also dives into a couple of Qnity tools that played a key role in her financial turnaround:
• The 9Grid™: This popular visual thinking tool helps organize your thoughts onto paper, creating actionable plans through mind maps, storyboards, or step-by-step guides. Learn more here.
• The QLife Map™: A structured vision board using Qnity’s grid-based learning method to create breakthroughs across five core areas, including professional and financial. Discover it here.
If you’re ready to learn from Paula’s experience and find inspiration for your own financial goals, listen to the full episode on MONEYO2 here.
Candice’s Story | From Feeling ‘Stupid’ to Confident
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this episode, we hear from Candice, a small business owner who shares her inspiring journey from avoiding her business financials to becoming confident and profitable. Candice went from feeling “flat out stupid” about her finances to increasing her profitability from 0% to 17%, growing revenue by over 30%, and saving more than $100,000 in just one year.
Even if you’re not a business owner, Candice’s insights are valuable and applicable to anyone looking to improve their financial mindset and practices.
We also discuss the Qnity Workshop called MONEY SBO, led by Candice herself. This workshop is held several times a year across the U.S. and is designed to help small business owners, leaders, and managers gain confidence in managing their business finances. For more details and to register, visit MONEY SBO Workshop.
If you’re ready to take control of your finances and see what’s possible for your business and life, listen to the full episode here.
Dr. Art Markman on Creating "Smart Change"
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Dr. Art Markman, a cognitive psychologist and Vice Provost of Academic Affairs at the University of Texas. Dr. Markman is also the author of Smart Change, a book focused on how to create behavior change—insights we unpack throughout this conversation. His work appears regularly in Psychology Today, Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and more.
I first met Dr. Markman when he spoke at a recent Qnity conference, and after reading Smart Change, I realized how much of his knowledge can be applied to managing money and creating lasting financial habits. In this episode, we explore fascinating topics such as intergenerational wealth patterns, the ‘what the hell effect’, how to automate habits, the importance of environment, and how tapping into others can support your success.
If you’re curious about the science behind behavior change and want practical strategies to improve your financial habits, listen to the full episode here.
Corinne’s Story | From $30k to $70k in one year (and growing)
In this episode of MONEYO2, I’m joined by Corinne Murray, whom I first met back in 2016 when she was working as a service provider, or what we often call an ‘intrapreneur.’ Despite her talent, Corinne was struggling financially and unsure how to grow her income.
Taking a leap of faith, Corinne invested in her education and completely transformed her financial situation. Within just one year, she increased her income by over $40,000, paid for fertility treatments in cash, upgraded from her old high school car, and, most importantly, shifted from constant stress to viewing life as an exciting adventure. Her story is a powerful reminder that one decision can change your entire reality.
During our conversation, Corinne shares a powerful exercise she did using the 9Grid™, one of Qnity’s visual thinking tools, which helped her get unstuck around money. You can try this exercise yourself by purchasing the 9Grid™ here, and don’t forget to use the code moneyo2pod for 20% off your order.
If you’re ready to transform your financial mindset and life, listen to the full episode here.
John's Story | From $250,000 in Debt to Financial Freedom
In this episode of MONEYO2, I’m joined by John Soforic, author of The Wealthy Gardener. John wrote this insightful parable as a guide for his son entering adulthood, sharing a unique and philosophical approach to achieving financial freedom.
John’s journey is inspiring — from being over $250,000 in debt with young children, to earning over $200,000 annually in passive income through real estate, and ultimately reaching full financial independence. Beyond money, John offers profound wisdom on creating a purposeful and fulfilling life.
This longer interview is packed with lessons on financial freedom and living with intention, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to build wealth while finding meaning.
Listen to the full episode here.
Brittani's Story | From Stressed to Stressless
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this episode, we’re joined by Brittani LeJeune, Director of Curriculum for the Aveda Arts and Sciences Institutes. Brittani shares her honest and inspiring journey with money — from overcoming scary financial situations to becoming debt-free and planning for retirement by age 55.
She reflects candidly on how financial literacy, budgeting, and asking for help were crucial to her success. Brittani’s story is a powerful reminder that managing money well is a skill anyone can develop, and it’s never too late to take control.
Listen to the full episode here.
Kristi’s Story | 14X-ing her Net Worth
In today’s episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Kristi Chambers from The Strategic Coach. Kristi has been coaching entrepreneurs and their teams since 2001 and has spoken at several Qnity events. On the show, she dives into a powerful framework from The Strategic Coach called ‘The Gap and The Gain’ — a mindset tool that helps shift how we view financial progress.
Kristi shares her personal money journey, including how she and her husband increased their savings by 10 times and their net worth by 14 times. She also highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people — the right “WHO” — and shows that you don’t have to be a math whiz or love finance to make meaningful financial progress.
As a special gift, the Strategic Coach team is offering the first 25 listeners a free hard copy of ‘The Gap and The Gain’ book. To claim yours, email here with the subject line MONEY STORY and include your mailing address.
Listen to the full episode here.
Lindsay's Story | Money and Mental Health
In today’s episode of MONEYO2, we explore the important and often overlooked connection between money and mental health. I’m excited to welcome Lindsay Bryan-Podvin, a biracial financial therapist, speaker, and author of The Financial Anxiety Solution. Lindsay brings a unique perspective as she shares what it means to be a financial therapist and dives into how financial struggles can deeply affect mental well-being.
Lindsay opens up about her own experiences balancing financial and mental health challenges, including a time when she was making less money as a social worker than she did waiting tables. With a degree in sociology, a Master’s in Social Work, and certifications in Financial Social Work and Financial Therapy, Lindsay approaches this work with compassion and a shame-free mindset to help people get their minds and money in balance.
This episode is a must-listen if you want to better understand the emotional side of money and find ways to reduce anxiety around your finances.
Listen to the full episode here.
NeCole’s Story | Choose your Choices
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this episode, we sit down with NeCole Cumberlander, a multi-location trade school owner and businesswoman, who shares her candid journey with money and finance. NeCole opens up about how certain financial decisions caused her to miss out on her dream job and the ripple effects of that choice.
She also discusses a powerful strategy she and her husband put into place—designing their lives to live off just one income in case of unexpected crises (which, spoiler alert, did happen!). NeCole highlights the importance of choosing the right partner, both in business and in life, and how that partnership can make or break your financial resilience.
This episode offers real-world wisdom for anyone looking to build a secure and adaptable financial foundation.
Listen to the full episode here.
Genein’s Story | From $100k in debt to changing thinking
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In today’s episode, we’re joined by Genein Letford, a former teacher turned author and keynote speaker. Genein shares her powerful story of graduating college burdened with credit card debt and eventually hitting rock bottom with over $100,000 in student loan debt.
Together with her husband, she took bold steps to change their financial reality. A key theme throughout her journey is the power of creativity — thinking differently to create a different outcome.
This episode is a valuable reminder that changing your financial future often starts with shifting your mindset and embracing new approaches.
Listen to the full episode here.
Jennifer’s Story | From $6 an hour to over 6 Figures
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by the inspiring Jennifer Alvarez. Jennifer began her career as a cosmetologist and faced difficult challenges, including leaving a bad relationship and taking a $6 an hour job while sleeping on her parents’ couch.
Despite these hardships, Jennifer never gave up. She kept learning, sought out mentorship, and committed to constant growth. Her dedication paid off—she exceeded six-figure earnings, purchased real estate, and built a thriving business.
Today, Jennifer leads and employs a team, paying forward the mentorship that was so critical to her own success.
Listen to the full episode here.
Sam’s Story | From $60k in Debt to Financial Discipline
Welcome back to MONEY O2! In this episode, we’re joined by Sam Villa, a celebrated beauty industry educator and business owner with a huge following on Instagram and YouTube. But today, we get to hear a more personal side of Sam.
Sam shares how he started out working in the fields before transitioning into the beauty industry as a hairdresser. He opens up about his financial struggles, including accumulating over $60,000 in debt due to spending beyond his means.
His story highlights the crucial role of discipline, self-worth, and education in turning around your financial life, no matter where you’re starting from.
Listen to the full episode here.
Barbara’s Story | From Stripper to Business Owner
Welcome back to MONEY O2! Today, we’re joined by Barbara Sloan, a former service industry professional, construction company owner, and author of Tipped; The Life-Changing Guide to Financial Freedom for Waitresses, Bartenders, Strippers, and Other Service Industry Professionals.
Barbara brings a fresh and important perspective to building wealth for those who rely heavily on tips. She shares the benefits of having control over your earnings while also addressing the unique challenges that come with the volatility and seasonality of income in the service industry.
In this episode, we explore the importance of creating financial legitimacy and stability for service industry professionals, helping them build sustainable financial futures.
Listen to the full episode here.
Jenni’s Story | From Entrepreneur to Intrapreneur
In this episode of MONEY O2, we’re joined by Jenni Nguyen, Director at the Jean Madeline Institute in Philadelphia. As the daughter of Vietnamese American parents, Jenni shares her personal experience navigating money and education.
Jenni opens up about turning down a full-ride scholarship to a traditional university and instead taking on around $130,000 in student loans to attend a different school. She also shares the decision to drop out in her junior year and pursue a career in beauty and wellness.
In her late 20s, Jenni became a business owner and eventually chose to exit her business to take on a leadership role in a more established company. Her story is a powerful reminder that while we all have the power to choose our paths, those choices carry both positive and negative financial consequences.
Listen to the full episode here.
Tina’s Story | From an ‘Income Plan’ to a ‘Giving Plan’
In this episode of MONEYO2, we are joined by Tina Black, an inspiring business owner and leader who manages nine schools and salons across the United States. What’s truly remarkable is how Tina empowers her key team members by offering them opportunities to become partners in the business.
Tina shares her powerful philosophy on money, revealing a profound shift in her mindset—from focusing on an “Income Plan” to embracing a “Giving Plan.” This change has transformed how she views money, encouraging us all to think of money as a resource to create impact, rather than the sole source of purpose.
If you’re looking to lead with intention and discover the deeper power of financial purpose, this episode with Tina is a must-listen.
Listen to the full episode here.
Jake’s Story | From -$25k in Net Worth to $500k
In this episode of MONEYO2, we chat with Jake Cousineau, a teacher turned personal finance author of How to Adult. Jake brings a fresh, relatable approach to finance for young adults, drawing on his years in the classroom and personal experience managing money as a young professional.
Jake openly shares how he transformed his financial situation from a negative net worth of about $25,000 to nearly $500,000—all while living on a teacher’s salary. His journey is a powerful reminder that you don’t need a dramatic income boost to achieve major financial growth; it’s about shifting your mindset and habits around money.
If you’re ready to learn practical steps and get inspired by a real-life story of financial transformation, this episode is for you.
Listen to the full episode here.
John Paul DeJoria | From $350 to becoming a Multi-Billionaire
In this inspiring episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by John Paul DeJoria—entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of John Paul Mitchell Systems and Patron Tequila. Beyond his incredible business achievements, John Paul shares his humility, compassion, and deep commitment to giving back.
John Paul reflects on his journey from struggle to success and offers timeless advice on entrepreneurship, the power of generosity, and what true wealth really means. He reminds us that while money is a part of wealth, the greatest wealth is happiness.
If you’re seeking inspiration and a fresh perspective on success and purpose, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen to the full episode here.
Milan’s Story | From an audience of 0 to 6 Million
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Milan Singh, a California-based entrepreneur, investor, and content creator with a massive audience of over 6 million followers. Milan shares the realities behind the scenes—the time and effort required to optimize content—and how his financial discipline as a saver has supported his success across entrepreneurship, investing, and creating.
The creator economy is booming, with 200 million creators worldwide and valued at $250 billion in 2023, expected to double by 2027. Milan’s story offers valuable insights into this fascinating and fast-growing industry.
If you want to learn about financial habits that fuel creative success and the evolving digital economy, this episode is for you.
Listen to the full episode here.
Manisha’s Story | On Financial Health + Emotional Wealth
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Manisha Thakor, a financial well-being expert and author with over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. Manisha is a Harvard Business School graduate, Chartered Financial Analyst, and Certified Financial Planner who has worked in both institutional investing and individual wealth advising.
Despite her professional success, Manisha realized she had sacrificed too much in pursuit of work and money. She shares her journey of overcoming toxic behaviors around money, work, and prestige that affected her health and relationships. Manisha introduces us to the concept of MoneyZen—linking financial health to emotional well-being—and offers practical ways to reframe how we approach money worries.
If you’re ready to rethink your relationship with money and cultivate true financial and emotional balance, listen to the full episode here.
Jay’s Story | From $60k to Millionaire
What if you could become a millionaire within ten years? That’s exactly what Jay, known as J.Money, achieved—and he openly tracked his journey on his financial freedom blog, budgetsaresexy.com. From January 2008 to August 2019, J.Money publicly documented his net worth growing from $58,000 to over $1.13 million. He stopped tracking once he surpassed his goal.
J.Money’s story is one of patience, transparency, and intentional minimalism. His projects have reached over 40 million views and have been featured in top media outlets including Forbes, Inc. Magazine, and The New York Times. In this episode, he shares the lessons and mindset shifts that helped him retire in his 40s and embrace financial freedom.
If you’re inspired by intentional wealth building and transparency, listen to the full episode here.
Cash’s Story | From Hairdresser to Investor
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this episode, we hear the incredible story of Cash Lawless, a former celebrity hairstylist who’s worked with the Kardashians, Justin Bieber, Hailey Bieber, and has been featured in Vogue. Cash shares his journey from experiencing homelessness to reaching the heights of the celebrity hairdressing world.
Beyond hairstyling, Cash has successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship and real estate, with ventures totaling around $190 million in sales. He offers deep insights into the economics of working with celebrities and highlights the crucial role mentorship and education played in his financial growth. Cash is passionate about financial literacy and generously shares his wisdom in this inspiring episode.
If you want to hear Cash’s story and learn from his experience, listen to the full episode here.
JL Collins Story | The Simple Path to Wealth
Welcome back to MONEYO2! This week, I’m thrilled to welcome JL Collins, renowned financial blogger and author of The Simple Path to Wealth. JL achieved full financial independence in his late 30s, and in this episode, we dive into key insights from his book alongside his personal financial journey.
If you haven’t read The Simple Path to Wealth yet, you’re in for a treat. This episode covers why JL chose early financial independence, the two phases of your financial life, how to follow the simple path, and ways to overcome investing fears. Whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned pro, JL’s wisdom offers valuable lessons for everyone.
Listen to the full episode here to explore JL’s practical approach to building wealth and removing fear from investing.
Allan Roth | Wishing you a BORING investing life
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this episode, we’re joined by Allan Roth, Founder of Wealth Logic, an hourly-based Investment Advisory and Financial Planning firm. Allan is also the author of How a Second Grader Beats Wall Street and a contributor to many financial publications.
Allan shares his straightforward investing philosophy perfectly summed up by his quote: “I wish you an exciting life, but a boring investing life.” He walks us through his journey to financial freedom, which was built on frugality, and explains how many wealthy people tend to be pessimists who save, while spenders are often optimists. Drawing from his background, Allan emphasizes the power of index fund investing as a core strategy.
If you’re a beginner investor or just looking for practical financial wisdom, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Listen to the full episode here.
Jenn Lyles | The Clarity of Being Debt-Free
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Jenn Lyles, who shares her inspiring journey to financial freedom alongside her husband. Together, they paid off a $215,000 mortgage not over 30 years, but in just 4. Their unconventional path included sacrifices like renting their home on Airbnb and staying in motels or on friends’ couches to speed up payments.
Jenn’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter your background or circumstances, with determination and willingness to make sacrifices, financial freedom is possible. Whether you’re currently managing debt or not, this episode offers inspiration and practical encouragement.
Listen to the full episode here.
Bill Yount | It’s never too late. An episode for “Late Starters”
In this episode of MONEYO2, we sit down with Bill Yount, host and creator of the Catching Up To FI podcast. As an ER physician, Bill and his wife faced a wake-up call in their late forties and early fifties—they were high earners living in a big house but had little to show for it and were unprepared for retirement. Bill shares his journey of transforming his life: selling their house, relocating across the country, and adopting a frugal lifestyle in pursuit of financial freedom.
Bill openly discusses the shame he felt about not being ready for retirement and breaks the myth that a high income automatically means financial intelligence or preparedness. He emphasizes the importance of decisive action, consistency, and understanding that there’s no quick fix.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your financial journey or worried it’s too late to change, this episode offers hope and practical insights. Tune in for inspiration and actionable steps toward your own path to financial freedom.
Listen to the full episode here.
Jonathan Clements | 5 Keys to a Better Financial Life
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by personal finance expert Jonathan Clements. With over 20 years as The Wall Street Journal’s personal finance columnist and 6 years as Director of Financial Educator at CitiGroup, Jonathan brings a wealth of knowledge. He shares how his family history and upbringing sparked his lifelong passion for money and financial education.
Jonathan offers timeless advice on building financial security, nurturing strong relationships, and pursuing meaningful work for lasting happiness—beyond just material purchases. He discusses common psychological challenges like overconfidence and loss aversion, and encourages thoughtful pauses and seeking advice before making financial decisions.
Highlighting the power of your career earnings, Jonathan stresses the importance of consistently saving for retirement to convert your human capital into financial capital. His investment philosophy focuses on long-term commitment to simple, low-cost, globally diversified index funds, with an emphasis on staying steady through market fluctuations.
Beyond money, Jonathan reminds us that today’s decisions shape the quality of life for years to come.
Explore Jonathan’s books My Money Journey and How to Think About Money, and visit his website HumbleDollar.
Listen to the full episode here.
Betsey Stevenson | How to Think Like an Economist (Pt. 1)
Hey there, MONEYO2 listeners! This is part 1 of 2 insightful conversations with Betsey Stevenson, a Harvard-trained PhD in economics who has served as the Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Labor and as a direct advisor to President Obama on labor and social policy issues.
In this episode, Betsey shares her journey into economics and her passion for using economic tools to help individuals and communities make smarter financial decisions. We explore key economic principles for everyday life—like understanding opportunity costs, thinking incrementally, and weighing the costs and benefits of decisions.
Betsey also offers practical tips on protecting purchasing power during inflation, the value of side hustles to prepare for economic downturns, and emerging trends that could impact the average American’s financial health. This episode is a crash course in economics from a top professor at universities like the University of Michigan and UPenn.
For those interested in diving deeper, check out Betsey’s textbook, Principles of Economics.
Listen to Part 1 of this episode here.
Doc G | A Former Hospice Doctor's take on Money & Purpose
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Jordan Grumet, aka ‘Doc G’—a former hospice doctor who blends medical insight with personal finance wisdom. After experiencing burnout, Jordan embraced the financial independence movement and shares lessons learned from his work with dying patients and his own journey toward financial freedom.
Jordan offers powerful perspectives on using money as a tool rather than a goal, finding purpose beyond wealth, and healing financial trauma. He discusses creating margin in life by balancing time, energy, and resources while living meaningfully today alongside long-term goals.
To learn more, explore Jordan’s books Taking Stock and The Purpose Code, or listen to his podcast Earn and Invest.
Listen to the full episode here.
Katy Song | MONEY TIPS with a CFP
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Katy Song, a Certified Financial Planner and Chief Financial Planner for Domain Money. With a background in investment banking and over 800 personalized financial plans crafted, Katy brings valuable expertise to our discussion.
Using Qnity’s MONEY EDU/MONEY PRO framework, we dive into the impact of MONEY MINDSET and how negative money stories affect people across income levels. Katy offers practical advice on maximizing MONEY IN, managing MONEY OUT, and highlights three key areas where overspending often occurs. Erin also shares her personal experience working with Katy and using a fee-only financial planning service like Domain Money.
DISCLAIMER: Erin Kuhn Bhansali, host of this podcast, is a client of Domain Money. She and her husband received a complimentary financial plan.
Interested in working with Domain Money? Visit https://dmnmny.co/qnity and use code Qnity2024 to get $300 off your plan.
Listen to the full episode here.
Betsey Stevenson | AI’s Impact on the Future of Work & Education (Pt. 2)
Welcome back to MONEYO2! In Part 2 of our conversation with renowned economist Betsey Stevenson, former Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Labor, we dive into the future of work and education in today’s rapidly changing economy.
Betsey explores the impact of AI on the job market—especially for white-collar workers—and highlights the growing importance of critical thinking and question-asking skills. We also discuss how to navigate economic transitions like the one we’re currently facing, the evolving nature of jobs and skills, and why adaptability is essential.
Betsey shares her perspective on the ongoing debate between traditional four-year college degrees versus vocational programs, offering valuable insight on education as an investment. Plus, she provides practical strategies for business growth and the importance of contingency planning for financial setbacks—guidance that benefits entrepreneurs and employees alike.
This episode is a masterclass in applied economics, packed with expert analysis and actionable tips to help you better understand and thrive in the economic landscape ahead.
If you missed Part 1, where we focus on practical economics principles for daily life, be sure to listen here.
For those who want to dive deeper, Betsey’s textbook Principles of Economics is available here.
“Navigating economic transitions requires adaptability and a focus on critical thinking.”
Listen to the full episode here.
Gay Gaddis | Turning $16k to a Multi-Million Dollar Business
Hello MONEYO2 listeners! In this episode, we’re joined by Gay Gaddis, an entrepreneurial powerhouse who transformed a $16,000 investment from her 401k into the largest independent female-owned advertising agency in the U.S. Gay’s journey from humble beginnings to selling her multi-million dollar company is truly inspiring.
We dive into her challenging childhood and how it shaped her financial mindset, her bold decision to start an agency during a recession, and how she built and scaled her business without outside funding. Gay shares her unique approach to managing creative professionals and the key financial lessons she learned along the way.
This episode also highlights the importance of continuous adaptation and innovation, and Gay’s transition from agency owner to acclaimed speaker, author, and artist.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative professional, or seeking to boost your financial savvy, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable advice to help you think bigger, manage smarter, and stay focused on your financial goals.
Connect with Gay:
Book: Cowgirl Power
Website: GayGaddis.com
Gay’s Art: Gaygaddisart.com
“Risk-taking and investing in talent are key drivers of lasting success.”
Listen to the full episode here.
Evol Greaves | From Financial Anxiety to Financial Confidence
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Evol Greaves, VP of Engineering at Betterment, who shares his journey from financial stress to financial freedom. Born and raised in Jamaica, Evol moved to the U.S. at 17 to pursue his education. Despite good saving habits, he faced $100,000 in student loan debt after college and candidly discusses his struggles with financial anxiety and living paycheck to paycheck.
Evol offers valuable insights on shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, boosting earning potential through skill-building and leadership, the importance of financial transparency and literacy, and how automation can help with saving and investing. His story highlights perseverance, continuous learning, and the power of support on the financial journey.
Whether you’re managing student loans or aiming for greater financial confidence, this episode provides practical lessons and inspiration.
Learn more about Betterment here: Betterment (for individuals) | Betterment at Work (for businesses)
Disclaimer: Erin Kuhn Bhansali and Qnity, Inc. are clients of Betterment.
Listen to the full episode here.
April Oury | From an overwhelmed business owner to an almost $10 million dollar exit
Welcome to Season 3 of MONEYO2! If you’re a business owner thinking about how to exit, sell, or transition your business, this episode is for you. Today’s guest, April Oury, shares her inspiring journey from running a small service-based business to scaling it from 2 to 8 locations and ultimately achieving a nearly $10 million exit.
April talks about the pivotal moment she realized she wasn’t the best person to run the business and how she found the courage to bring in outside leadership. Her story resonates with many in the beauty and wellness industry, especially those managing multiple locations. She highlights the importance of separating the service or technical side from the business operations—and how stepping aside can open the door to an even better next chapter.
I asked April, “Would you have been able to exit for this nearly $10 million without stepping aside?” Listen to hear her honest answer. This episode is especially relevant for small business owners wondering, “What does my next act look like?”
Today, April is happily living her next act as an angel investor, mentoring other small companies, and teaching people—especially women—how to learn business and life skills through poker.
Follow April on Instagram: @apriloury
Learn more about her work with Poker Power: pokerpower.com
If you’re ready for what’s next after salon ownership, Qnity is here to help you find the best transition option for your salon or spa. Unfortunately, only 1 in 10 salons transition successfully—most simply close their doors, leaving years of hard work with nothing to show for it. You deserve to turn your dedication into a new chapter of financial freedom.
Our upcoming Succession programs offer personalized support to help you plan your exit or transition. We have an amazing group starting soon, ready to work on their next act with expert guidance beginning in March 2025.
Don’t let your legacy end with closed doors. Learn more about our Succession programs here.
“Stepping aside was the hardest but most important decision to scaling and exiting my business.”
Listen to the full episode here.
Lynnette Khalfani-Cox | How to Bounce Back from Financial Setbacks
Welcome back to MONEYO2! If you’ve ever faced financial challenges—or are in one right now—this episode is essential listening. Today, I’m joined by Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, a renowned financial expert, author of 16 books, former Wall Street Journal reporter, and trusted voice featured on Dr. Phil, Oprah, CNN, and more.
Lynnette shares her candid and powerful journey of resilience, including how she overcame what she calls the “dreaded D’s” of financial setbacks. She opens up about battling overwhelming debt—over $100K in consumer debt and $40K in student loans—and navigating the challenges of downsizing after an unexpected job loss. From these personal trials, Lynnette developed practical strategies anyone can use to rebuild financial stability.
Her latest book, Bounce Back, captures these lessons and offers a comprehensive roadmap for financial recovery.
This episode is a strong reminder that no matter where you are financially today, there is always a path forward. Lynnette’s story shows that with the right mindset and strategies, you can recover—and come back even stronger.
P.S. For more show updates, follow me on Instagram at @erinkuhnbhansali
Listen to the full episode here.
Kathryn Edwards | Are you optimistic about the economy?
In this episode of MONEYO2, we’re joined by Kathryn Anne Edwards, a PhD economist specializing in labor markets, public policy, and inequality. Kathryn is also an economic policy consultant and the host of the podcast Optimist Economy. She shares how witnessing the 2008 Recession shaped her career and deepened her commitment to economic education.
Kathryn breaks down three key topics impacting many of our listeners’ financial lives: Social Security and its critical role as a safety net amid retirement challenges; potential changes to the Department of Education and what they could mean for students, trade school owners, and staff; and the childcare crisis, exploring how universal childcare could benefit families, providers, businesses, and the economy—especially in the beauty and wellness industries.
This episode offers a clear economic perspective on these complex issues to help empower your financial decisions. The more we understand the economy, the better equipped we are to navigate it.
Follow Kathryn Anne Edwards on Instagram @kathrynanneedwards, listen to her podcast Optimist Economy, or subscribe to her newsletter here to continue the conversation.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—send me a DM on Instagram @erinkuhnbhansali or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com.
Listen to the full episode here.
Christine Benz | How to Retire & Navigate Market Volatility
Welcome back to MONEYO2! Today’s episode features Christine Benz, Director of Personal Finance and Retirement Planning at Morningstar and author of How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement.
In these times of market uncertainty, Christine shares practical wisdom to help you navigate financial storms and make smart retirement decisions. Her guiding principle? “First, do no harm” — meaning avoid emotional moves that could jeopardize your long-term financial health.
This episode covers how to stay steady through financial turmoil, smart emergency fund planning focused on essential expenses, protecting your portfolio from inflation, and Christine’s proven “bucket approach” to retirement. She also explains the importance of global diversification—aiming for 60% US and 40% international investments—and why investing in your “human capital” is critical.
Whether you’re nearing retirement or just starting your journey, Christine offers calm, level-headed guidance to build resilience no matter what the markets do.
To stay connected with Christine Benz, visit Morningstar’s website where she regularly shares insightful articles and sample portfolios. You can also find her book, How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement, at your favorite bookstore or online retailers.
Ready to build a smarter retirement plan? Listen to the full episode here.
Elizabeth Faye | Breaking Free from Money Trauma & Hustle Culture
Welcome back to MONEYO2! Today’s episode features Elizabeth Faye, founder of The Vitality Project and Hair Love University, a former hairdresser turned healer, trauma-informed life coach, and creator of the beauty industry’s first workplace wellness program.
In an era defined by burnout and hustle culture, Elizabeth shares her powerful journey from relentless hustling that led to a health collapse to discovering a balanced approach to success and wealth. Her guiding philosophy? “Show me how easy it is” — an experiment that completely transformed her relationship with money, work, and self-worth.
Throughout this episode, Elizabeth offers essential insights on the difference between using hustle as a tool versus making it a lifestyle, how childhood money trauma shapes our money mindset, and the importance of nervous system regulation and breathwork to create a sense of safety around money. She also explores breaking generational scarcity patterns and explains why “ease is a state, not a destination” on your wealth journey. Plus, she highlights the power of asking different questions to create different results.
Elizabeth shares her personal story and practical guidance for building success without sacrificing wellbeing — including a guided breathwork meditation designed to transform your money mindset.
To connect with Elizabeth Faye, visit joinvitalityproject.com or follow her on Instagram @heyelizabethfaye. Don’t miss her viral TED Talk, Hairdressers Change the World, and watch for her upcoming book Show Me How Easy It Is.
Ready to transform your money mindset and wellbeing? Listen to the full episode here.
Ashlee Piper | Buying Less, Living More: What Happens When You Stop Shopping
Welcome back to MONEYO2!
Today’s guest, Ashlee Piper, knows firsthand what it’s like to be caught in the cycle of spending and stress. Once a fast-paced political strategist with a love for fashion and wellness trends, Ashlee found herself constantly shopping—but feeling increasingly disconnected.
So she made a radical decision: buy nothing new for a year. What started as a personal challenge became a lifestyle shift, a bestselling book, and a movement that’s reshaping how people think about money, identity, and joy.
In this episode, Ashlee gets real about what happens when you pause the purchasing and start paying attention to what really matters. We talk about her journey from burnout to intentional living, why we shop to soothe, and what “enough” looks like in a world that tells us we’re never quite there. She also shares the hidden emotional and financial freedom that comes from consuming less and how to try the No New Things challenge yourself—without guilt or shame.
Ashlee got out of $20K in consumer debt and saved $36K without increasing her income!
Her story is smart, funny, and refreshingly honest. If you’ve ever thought about simplifying your life, being more intentional with your money, or just wanted to feel a little less pressure to “keep up”—this episode is your permission slip.
As always, I’d love to hear what you think! DM me on Instagram @erinkuhnbhansali and follow us @moneyo2pod or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com.
To connect with Ashlee, visit nntbook.com or follow her on Instagram @ashleepiper.
Ready to rethink your relationship with spending? Listen to the full episode here.