

Real Money, Real Experts
AFCPE®
Real Money, Real Experts is a personal finance podcast written and produced by AFCPE®. With an audience of financial professionals, we strive to educate and entertain with a combination of expert tips, engaging interviews, and real-life storytelling. AFCPE® ensures the highest integrity of the financial counseling profession by certifying, connecting, and supporting diverse professionals. Our comprehensive program, the AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor®), represent the gold standard of financial counseling certifications. And our membership community offers a place to share best practices, solve similar struggles, and access tools and resources that advance your career and enable you to better serve your clients.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 23, 2024 • 26min
Advocacy in Action: Using Your Voice to Make a Difference with Raven Newberry, AFC®
This week on Real Money, Real Experts, we delve into the power of community and advocacy with Raven Newberry, AFC®. Raven Newberry is the managing director of policy and advocacy for the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), leading efforts to shape financial education policies on state and national levels. In this episode, we discuss how using your voice to advocate for change can create powerful ripples throughout your community. Join us as we explore the collective fingerprints of the AFCPE community in supporting the passing of crucial legislation and the impact we can make at the local and community level.Show Notes: 02:59 Raven's top horror movie pick for the summer03:41 The perfect blend of geography & personal finance05:12 Why public policy and advocacy matter07:17 The catalyst of the financial education movement 10:33 How to begin your advocacy journey13:16 The power of community & longevity in your advocacy journey 21:05 Raven's 2 centsShow Notes Link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/raven-newberry-5baa9774/ https://www.nefe.org/about/our-team/default.aspx https://www.nefe.org/initiatives/ecosystem/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/default.aspx, https://www.nefe.org/impact/policy-and-advocacy/policy-tracker.aspx https://fined50.org/ https://www.ngpf.org/ https://www.jumpstart.org/ https://www.cee.org/ Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Jul 9, 2024 • 29min
Rewrite Your Money Story with Jasmine Johnson
This week, we welcome Jasmine Johnson, Accredited Financial Counselor®️, Entertainment Accountant, and Mental Health Advocate to Real Money, Real Experts. Jasmine has spent over a decade empowering individuals and families to transform their financial mindset and achieve Financial Independence. In this episode, Jasmine shares how growing up in poverty influenced her own money story, and how it's made a difference in the way she supports clients. She talks about how embracing life’s unexpected turns can lead you exactly where you need to be. Tune in for a compelling discussion on personal growth, financial empowerment, and the journey to self-discovery. Show Notes:02:18 Jasmine's journey to the AFC08:51 The beginning of Jasmine's money story11:29 How emotions and finances intertwine13:09 Uncovering your money story17:47 What led Jasmine to opening her own business20:33 The importance of being a life long learner22:41 Jasmine's 2 centsShow Notes Links:https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman - https://a.co/d/fM1j5y4 Financial decisions 90% emotions IG: jasmine_themoneycoach YT: jasmine_themoneycoach website: www.square1accounting.com https://www.square1accounting.com/yourresources Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Jun 25, 2024 • 30min
Navigating Cultural Differences with Dr. Kate Mielitz, AFC®
This week, we welcome Kate Mielitz, PhD, AFC®️, CDP®️ , back to Real Money, Real Experts. Dr. Kate has 25 years of experience in financial services, including bankruptcy, fraud, financial counseling, and higher education, and she's dedicated to helping financial and human services professionals navigate cultural differences. On today's episode, we take a deep dive into the ways our background and lived experiences affect our relationship with money and gain strategies for working more effectively with vulnerable populations. Kate is a wealth of knowledge, and her energy and enthusiasm is contagious. Want to gain insights and resources to help you learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion and ensure you are truly meeting clients where they are? Tune into this episode!Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Jun 11, 2024 • 37min
The Heart of A Financial Educator Unlocked with Mike Lanway
Our first podcast episode to kick off with a love story!Join Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they sit down with Mike Lanway, CFP®, TSP expert, and self-proclaimed federal benefits "nerd." In this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, we explore Mike's unique personal and professional journey and uncover the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. From ministry to personal finance, Mike has a heart for service and a passion for ensuring that federal employees understand what their benefits can do for them. He speaks about his journey as a financial planner, and how going through Money Management Essentials and the AFC certification has elevated his work with clients. Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating career paths and finding your true calling. Don't miss out on this episode packed with wisdom and inspiration!Show Notes:02:23 It's (Mike + Lanelle's) love story, just say yes05:41 Mike's transition from ministry to financial services08:37 The perfect marriage between passion and purpose11:02 Lanway Companies' best move12:52 How education is the most important tool in your toolbox14:05 A behind the scenes look into being a business owner18:31 Mike's journey to the AFC 19:50 The value of the AFC21:38 Mike's ecosystem in the federal government space 24:06 Why your network is key in pursuing your passion 27:24 How you are the expert in your own life31:10 The power of prayer, trust, and peace of mind32:56 Mike's 2 centsShow Note Links: The Big Book of AA; Humility by Andrew Murray; Surprised By Joy by CS Lewis; The Bible All About CSRS, FERS and TSP, INC. – We are invested in your financial future. (allaboutfers.com) Datapoints Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

May 28, 2024 • 41min
Elevating Nonprofit Financial Coaching with the AFC with Christine Niccoli and Nathalie Kallab Racimo
On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Christine Niccoli, Director in Community Impact at United Way Massachusetts Bay, and Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC, Senior Homeownership and Financial Services Advisor at NOAH. In this important episode, we discuss the importance of professionalizing the financial coaching space, recognizing the effects of trauma on financial wellbeing, leading from a place of empathy, and how you can be a catalyst for change in your own community. Christine and Nathalie share why they chose the AFC certification, the benefit the AFC has brought to them and their coaches, and some of the challenges they have navigated along the way. Learn how you can start your journey to the AFC today in the show notes below. Show Notes:02:58 What led Christine to the AFC07:14 Nathalie's AFC journey 09:54 The importance of financial empowerment16:36 How the AFC' certification benefits communities 20:40 The challenges faced on the path to the AFC28:55 The power of financial accessibility to all33:20 Nathalie's 2 cents34:46 Christine's 2 centsShow Note Links: Nathalie Kallab Racimo, AFC® | LinkedIn Facebook United Way Mass Bay (@UnitedWayMABay) / X (twitter.com) United Way of Massachusetts Bay : Overview | LinkedIn United Way Pilots First-In-The-Nation Financial Counselor Certification Training for Non-Profit Financial Coaches in Eastern Massachusetts - United Way of Massachusetts Bay (unitedwaymassbay.org) NOAH Engage@EMPath Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

May 14, 2024 • 29min
How To Be A Servant Leader with Gilbert Rogers
"Tailor what you're doing to the audience that you're serving."-Gilbert Rogers.On this week's episode of Real Money, Real Experts, co-hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Mary Bell Carlson are joined by Gilbert Rogers, AFC. Gilbert is the Director of Financial Wellbeing at UNC Chapel Hill. He is a national thought leader in the financial education space and has worked with the Army’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and participates as a financial counselor for the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP). In this enlightening conversation, Gilbert shares the importance of financial empowerment and his mission to change the trajectory of financial accessibility. Learn how you can be a servant leader, and a part of the change.Show Notes:02:26 Gilbert's journey into the financial education space 04:00 Diving into his military background05:29 What led Gilbert to the AFC07:02 The impact of building foundational skills08:24 How you really can have the best of both worlds12:00 Finding the common thread amongst different communities 14:26 Say yes to opportunities16:42 A deeper look into his AMBA experience19:17 How "Understanding Poverty" changed Gilbert's approach to financial counseling 22:02 The secret to being a servant leader23:39 Gilbert's 2 centsShow Note Links:Connect with Gilbert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbertrogers/ Higher Education Foundation Wellness Alliance: https://www.hefwa.org/ AFC Certification: https://www.afcpe.org/certification/ Hazel Joyce Wiley Career & Financial Literacy, Inc: https://hjwfinancial.org/ Dr. Ruby Payne - Understanding Poverty: https://a.co/d/37J8eOV Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Apr 30, 2024 • 38min
The Journey to 100 Episodes with Rachael & Mary
Step into the spotlight with us as we commemorate the 100th episode of Real Money, Real Experts. In this special episode, we reminisce on the trials, triumphs, and unforgettable moments that have defined our podcast journey and look ahead to the future. We pull back the curtain to give you a look at our podcast journey, answer listener questions, and share some of our favorite moments along the way. But this episode isn't just about us—it's about you, the people who have been the heartbeat of Real Money, Real Experts since its inception. As we take a trip down memory lane, we'll shine a spotlight on the incredible stories and connections that have been forged along the way, sharing intimate behind-the-scenes anecdotes that reveal the human side of our podcast.Show Notes:02:28 BTS of Rachael's first episode03:30 How Real Money, Real Experts came to fruition05:41 Reflecting on the real stories of Real Money, Real Experts09:02 Rachael & Mary's most memorable episodes 16:27 What the AFCPE community is saying20:43 Rachael & Mary's biggest gain in the journey so far27:16 The future of AFCPE and what's to come in the future33:03 Mary's 2 cents34:52 The future of Real Money, Real Experts36:58 Winner Reveal!Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Apr 16, 2024 • 36min
Purpose, Passion, and the Power of Pivoting with Lissa Prudencio
Join co-hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson as they welcome Lissa Prudencio, AFC®, Founder of Wealth for Women of Color. In our latest episode, Lissa shares the power of pivoting and reminds us that investing in ourselves can help change the world. You'll learn the secret to intentionality, how to avoid burnout, and the importance of putting yourself first in your financial wellness journey. Lissa is on a mission to empower women of color to break down financial barriers and build wealth.Show Notes: 02:58 Lissa's pivot from the corporate world to pursuing her passion04:34 The story behind Wealth for Women of Color06:44 How investing in your wealth will change the world 09:36 The importance of bridging the wealth gap together as a community 11:52 What led Lissa to the AFC19:33 Lissa's life lessons from burnout 25:38 The secret to intentionality 30:48 The instrumental impact of gratitude and empathy32:25 Lissa's 2 centsShow Note Links:https://www.youtube.com/wealthforwomenofcolor https://www.tiktok.com/@wealthforwomenofcolor https://instagram.com/wealthforwomenofcolor https://wealthforwomenofcolor.com/ Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Apr 2, 2024 • 28min
Leading with Values and Stories with Sara Lohse
Join co-hosts Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson in this week's episode as they welcome Sara Lohse, AFC® and Founder of Favorite Daughter Media, to the conversation. Fueled by caffeine and unwavering passion, Sara is a master at blending storytelling and marketing to empower mission-driven brands to amplify their impact.In this fun conversation, Sara takes us on a journey into the heart of authentic storytelling. We talk about podcasting, thought leadership, and emphasizing the importance of leading with values and stories. Learn how you can harness the power of storytelling to connect with your audience on a deeper level, leaving a lasting impression and driving meaningful change. Show Notes: 02:28 Sara's perfect marriage between personal finance and marketing04:01 What led Sara to the AFC08:26 Sara's secret to podcasting10:34 The power of leading with value and stories 12:31 How to be a thought leader 14:12 Leaning into your authenticity is your strength 18:26 The power of consistency20:48 The art of storytelling 23:53 Sara's 2 centsShow Note Links: @favoritedaughtermedia (FB, Insta, LinkedIn) @_saralohse (Twitter, Insta) @saralohse (linkedin) https://favoritedaughtermedia.com/ Open This Book Branded – Advice for podcast guest https://favoritedaughtermedia.com/services/branded-podcasts/ Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

Mar 19, 2024 • 21min
Building Bridges: A Journey of Passion and Purpose with Lynne Patterson
On this week's episode, co-hosts, Rachael Deleon and Dr. Mary Carlson, are joined by AFCPE Board Member and FINRA Foundation Fellow, Lynne Patterson, AFC. Lynne's expertise and passion for fostering collaboration and resilience stem from her deep military connections. As both a service member and a dependent she has moved an astounding 35 times, providing her with a unique lens into the challenges that military families face. On this episode, we dive into Lynne's unique professional journey, and we celebrate the transformative power of community and the tireless efforts of changemakers like Lynne who are creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.Show Notes: 03:37 The challenges military spouses face 04:38 Lynne's journey to the AFC06:51 The magic behind the FINRA Foundation Fellowship 08:54 Building the bridge between military heroes and AFCPE 10:57 The importance of community empowerment11:40 Endless possibilities within the AFC designation13:41 Feeling at home with AFCPE16:19 The power of community with the AFCPE member exchange17:06 Lynne's 2 cents18:14 Lynne's MilMoneyCon presentation in AprilShow Note Links:See Lynne speak at MilMoneyCon this April Linkedin Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.


