Worth Listening with Lauryn Williams

In this episode of the Parenting & Finances series on the Worth Listening Podcast, Lauryn Williams and Chloe Moore open up an often-overlooked conversation about money and life without children. They explore what it really means to be childfree or childless, the importance of using thoughtful language, and why these distinctions matter—both personally and financially. Together, Lauryn and Chloe discuss how financial planning can look different when children aren't part of the picture, touching on lifestyle flexibility, long-term decision-making, and the unique considerations that often get missed in traditional money conversations. They also address some of the challenges that come with navigating systems and expectations that aren't always designed with childfree adults in mind. The episode expands the idea of family, legacy, and impact—highlighting how community, care, and purpose can show up in many forms. At its core, this conversation is a reminder that financial planning isn't about following a prescribed path, but about building a life that reflects your values and choices. Key Takeaways The difference between childfree, childless, and not-yet parents—and why it matters How being childfree can shape cash flow, housing, and lifestyle flexibility Why taxes, benefits, and laws often disadvantage single or childfree adults Retirement planning options when you're not planning to leave money to children Insurance considerations, including disability and long-term care Estate planning challenges when default templates assume spouses and descendants How community, caregiving, and legacy can look different—and still be deeply meaningful Links & Resources Mentioned MSU study finds number of US nonparents who never want children is growing - https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2025/04/msu-study-finds-number-of-us-nonparents-who-never-want-children-is-growing  Childfree Academy - https://childfreewealth.com/childfree-academy/ The Childfree Wealth® Podcast - https://childfreewealth.com/podcasts/  Childfree Bingo - https://bingobaker.com/view/496736  Solo by Peter McGraw - https://petermcgraw.org/books/solo-the-best-single-living-book/  Die With Zero by Bill Perkins - https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome    Money Quotes "As a mentor and an advocate, I've seen no end to the ways that childless people can contribute to the lives and well-being of kids—and adults, for that matter." — Megan Daum "I would rather regret not having kids than have kids and regret that." — Allison Janney Ready to take control of your financial future?  Join Lauryn Williams at the Welcome to Wealth Retreat in Medellin, Colombia! Build a personalized financial plan while experiencing an incredible new culture. Click here to reserve your spot today!   About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here].   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

In this powerful Money Memoir episode, Lauryn Williams sits down with nurse, mom of three, and financial educator Naseema McElroy, founder of Financially Intentional, to talk about what it really looks like to build wealth—starting with very little. Naseema shares how growing up with a single father and limited financial guidance shaped her early money mindset, how she navigated college financing without understanding the true cost, and how she eventually paid off nearly $1 million in debt—only to later rebuild intentionally and reach a seven-figure net worth. This conversation goes far beyond numbers. Naseema opens up about motherhood as a turning point in her financial life, why she chose freedom over climbing the corporate ladder, and how she's raising her daughters to understand money through modeling, investing, and real-life conversations—starting as early as toddlerhood. You'll also hear practical insights on student loans, investing while paying off debt, 529 plans, teaching kids about ownership versus consumption, and what financial independence really means when your goal is time with your family—not just retirement at 65. If you're a parent (or future parent) who wants to break generational patterns around money and raise financially confident kids, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways   How childhood money messages shape adult financial behavior Why Naseema chose freedom and flexibility over career prestige What paying off nearly $1 million in debt actually looked like Why "good debt" is still debt—and how mindset matters How Naseema teaches her kids about investing, ownership, and money habits Creative, age-appropriate ways to introduce investing to children How 529 plans can function as a long-term family education fund What financial independence looks like when time is the real goal   Links & Resources Mentioned   Financially Intentional: financiallyintentional.com Free Monthly Trainings: financiallyintentional.com/class Stockpile Investing App: stockpile.com Acorns Early (formerly Acorns Early / GoHenry-style allowance tools): acorns.com 529 College Savings Plans - https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/529-plans-questions-and-answers   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Naseema on Instagram: @financiallyintentional Join the Financially Intentional group on Facebook: @financiallyintentional Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams   Ready to Take the Next Step?   If this episode got you thinking differently about money, freedom, and the life you want to build, you don't have to figure it out alone.   Join Lauryn Williams in one of her upcoming programs or retreats designed to help you build a financial plan that supports your real life—not just a spreadsheet.   Learn more at worth-winning.com.

In this Parenting and Finances Money Memoir, Lauryn Williams sits down with fellow Certified Financial Planner™ and mom of two, Rianka R. Dorsainvil, CFP®, for a real conversation about motherhood, money, and what it costs to build a "village" in today's world. Rianka shares how growing up with limited resources shaped her commitment to building something different for her own family. Now a successful firm owner, she talks about what generational wealth looks like in practice, why food security is part of that picture, and how she and her husband think about saving and investing for their children. Lauryn and Rianka also dig into the realities of working motherhood. They talk about hyper independence, dropping expectations of how family will show up, and why so many modern parents end up paying for childcare, aftercare, nannies, or au pairs so they can keep doing work they love. They also touch on broken parental leave policies, the mismatch between school schedules and work hours, and how to decide whether it makes sense for one parent to step back from paid work. If you are a current or future parent trying to reconcile ambition, income, and your desire to be present with your kids, this episode will help you feel seen and remind you that if it feels hard, you are probably doing it right.   In This Episode, We Discuss: How Rianka's early experiences shaped her definition of generational wealth for her own family. Why so many parents rely on a "paid village" and how childcare costs impact financial planning. The struggle between hyper independence and learning to ask for help as a new mom. Why dropping expectations of others can protect your peace during parenthood. Key financial prep before kids: leave policies, insurance, childcare, and support systems. A reminder that if motherhood feels hard, it often means you're doing it right. How becoming a parent can reshape the way financial planners view real-life budgets.   Links & Resources Mentioned​ Episode 119: Helping Women of Color Get Ahead Financially   Ready to take control of your financial future? Join Lauryn Williams at the Welcome to Wealth Retreat in Medellin, Colombia! Build a personalized financial plan while experiencing an incredible new culture. Click here to reserve your spot today!   About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats here.​   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Rianka on Instagram: @rianka_d Connect with Rianka on Twitter: @Rianka_D Follow Rianka on Facebook: facebook.com/YGCWealth/   Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams  

Becoming a parent changes everything—your routines, your priorities, and definitely your finances. In this episode of our Know Better, Do Better: Parenting & Finances series, Certified Financial Planners Lauryn Williams and Chloe Moore break down what really happens after the baby arrives. From unexpected expenses and child-care costs to school decisions, career interruptions, and financial planning updates, this conversation is all about helping you adjust, adapt, and stay afloat in the new normal of parenting. Lauryn shares her real-life experiences as a brand-new mom—from the truth about registry gaps and hand-me-downs to how meal trains kept her alive in the early weeks. Chloe offers advisor-approved guidance on budgeting for child care, managing health-care surprises, reevaluating housing and car needs, and preparing for long-term expenses like education. Whether you're a first-time parent or adding another little one to the family, this episode gives you the clarity you wish someone had handed you at the hospital. If you didn't plan much before baby arrived (or if things didn't go according to plan), don't worry. Lauryn and Chloe walk you through exactly what to revisit, how to get back on track, and what financial changes matter most—because it's never too late to take control of your family's financial foundation. Key Takeaways The unexpected expenses most parents face after baby arrives—from duplicate items to emergency last-minute purchases. Why hand-me-downs, returns, and resale apps can save hundreds in the first year. The hidden costs of feeding yourself and your baby (especially if breastfeeding or cooking doesn't go as planned). Travel considerations with a child under two—and why free infant fares don't mean free trips. What to expect when budgeting for child care, nannies, daycare, and early education. Why you shouldn't rush to upgrade your house or car right away. How your career—and your future earning potential—may shift after becoming a parent. The critical financial planning updates every new parent should revisit: life insurance, estate planning, taxes, benefits, and 529s. Links & Resources Mentioned Investopedia Report: The $5 Million American Dream https://www.investopedia.com/2025-american-dream-costs-more-than-usd5-million-11796727 Episode 118: What You Need to Know About Life Insurance https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep118 Episode 116: Estate Planning with Shalini Codispoti https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep116

In this episode, Lauryn Williams talks with Linda, a world-traveling mom, teacher, and storyteller who has lived in more than 60 countries and now calls Colombia home. Born in Denver to Cambodian refugee parents, Linda shares how her family's journey from survival to stability shaped her mindset around money, education, and opportunity. She opens up about working her first jobs as a teen, studying abroad, meeting her husband while teaching overseas, and navigating pregnancy and motherhood across multiple continents. Together, Lauryn and Linda explore what it means to create a family life centered on freedom, culture, and connection rather than material milestones. Linda shares practical insights about finances, community, and parenting while living abroad—and how to build stability no matter where you are in the world. Key Takeaways How Linda's parents' refugee experience shaped her money mindset and lifelong focus on saving. Why she chose travel and education as her gateway to global living. What it's really like to navigate pregnancy, healthcare, and childcare across countries. How community and family networks provided a financial and emotional safety net. The couple's approach to balancing income, investments, and flexibility while raising kids abroad. Why she believes experiences and cultural exposure are more valuable than "stuff." How she's modeling equality, adaptability, and purpose-driven living for her sons. Ready to take control of your financial future? Join Lauryn Williams at the Welcome to Wealth Retreat in [Location]! Build a personalized financial plan while experiencing an incredible new culture. Click here to reserve your spot today! Links & Resources Mentioned Opopop - https://opopop.com/ Follow Linda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misslindate/ About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here]. Follow Us on Social Media Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

Becoming a parent changes your life and your finances! In this kickoff to our Parenting & Finances series, Certified Financial Planners Lauryn Williams and Chloe Moore walk through what to do before a child arrives so you can reduce stress, avoid costly surprises, and create a setup that actually supports your family. From "baby funds" and registries to leave policies, insurance, and estate planning, this episode is a practical checklist you can work through whether you're already expecting or just starting to plan. Lauryn also shares real-life lessons from welcoming her daughter, Arya—like why a flexible baby fund matters, how to think about one-time vs. recurring costs (hello, night nurse), and why "the village" is a financial strategy, not just a saying. Chloe adds advisor tips on employer benefits, 529s (and when not to start them), housing and car upgrades to avoid, and how relationship status changes the budget. If you want to feel more prepared—even if you'll never be 100% ready—this episode is for you. Key Takeaways The "baby fund" every parent needs—and what hidden costs it should actually cover. Why you might want to hold off on the new house or SUV (and what to prioritize instead). The overlooked employer benefits that can save you thousands before and after baby arrives. What to know about maternity, paternity, and unpaid leave—and how to plan your timing. The truth about life insurance and estate planning that too many new parents ignore. How to be strategic with registries, showers, and gifts to stretch your budget further. Why your relationship and support system are just as important to your finances as your income. Links & Resources Mentioned FAQ: The One Big Beautiful Bill, Explained Fair Play by Eve Rodsky Episode 116: Estate Planning with Guest Shalini Codispoti Episode 118: What You Need to Know About Life Insurance Money Quotes "Don't handicap your children by making their lives easy." — Robert A. Heinlein "The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence." — Maria Montessori Ready to take control of your financial future?  Join Lauryn Williams at the Welcome to Wealth Retreat in Medellin, Colombia! Build a personalized financial plan while experiencing an incredible new culture. Click here to reserve your spot today! About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here]. Follow Us on Social Media Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Welcome to a special mid-year replay from the Know Better, Do Better series! This conversation between two CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals—Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore—dives deep into a topic that's foundational to building wealth: money mindset. We're halfway through the year, and it's the perfect time to check in on your mindset around money and how it may be influencing your financial progress. Whether you've hit your goals or feel like you've stalled out, the way you think about money plays a bigger role than you might realize. In fact, it's so important that Lauryn teaches an entire class on the topic. This episode is full of real-life insight and practical tools to help you clean up your mindset, refresh your perspective, and start thinking in terms of abundance—not scarcity. Key Takeaways How to self-assess your current money mindset The lasting impact of past money messages How last year's financial wins or losses affect your mindset today What might be standing in the way of reaching your goals Different approaches to making spending decisions The influence of your social circle on your financial habits How your finances impact your physical and mental health Defining your version of financial security Why always wanting more can block your progress How the Kinder questions can help shift your perspective This year may have started with uncertainty—economically, professionally, or personally—but the one thing you can always control is how you think. Tune in to gain clarity, take back control, and keep moving forward with confidence.   About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here].   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

Is your relationship with money affecting your mental health? You're not alone.  In this episode, Certified Financial Planners Lauryn Williams and Chloe Moore unpack how finances impact our mental wellbeing—and what we can do about it. It all starts with building healthy financial habits grounded in your personal "why" and goals that actually fit your life.  Then they get into the numbers—breaking down the key financial metrics you should be tracking if you want to reduce stress and build long-term security. From net worth and debt to savings rate and housing costs, this episode helps you understand what to monitor, why it matters, and how to make meaningful progress. Whether you're in your peak earning years or just getting started, these habits can help you gain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.   Key Takeaways Why your financial "why" matters more than generic goals Why tracking your net worth gives you a clearer picture than a budget alone The truth about homeownership, net worth, and building real estate wealth The savings rate to aim for (and how to work up to it) Why you should plan for raises and bonuses before the money hits your account How to align with your partner on household finances—even if you're keeping things separate The role of side hustles, promotions, and annual reviews in income growth Insurance and estate planning basics you should be revisiting every year What to look for when reviewing your tax return Links & Resources Mentioned Planning for a Financial Windfall - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep107 Investing Part 1: Understanding the Basics - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep113 Investing Part 2: Types of Investment Accounts - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep114 Investing Part 3: Real Estate Investing - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep115 What You Need to Know About Life Insurance - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep118 Your Guide to Open Enrollment – Part One - https://www.financialstaples.com/your-guide-to-open-enrollment-part-one/ Your Guide to Open Enrollment - Part Two - https://www.financialstaples.com/your-guide-to-open-enrollment-part-two/ Behind the Numbers: Money and Relationships - https://www.worth-winning.com/podcast/ep152/ Download Lauryn's Free Financial Resource: 5 Must-Ask Questions Before Hiring a Financial Planner Money Quote:  "Your net worth to the world is usually determined by what remains after your bad habits are subtracted from your good ones." — Benjamin Franklin   About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here].   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

This episode originally aired in 2023, but it's just as relevant—if not more—today. As part of our What to Do During Times of Uncertainty series, we're revisiting this powerful conversation between CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals Lauryn Williams and Chloé Moore. In a world full of uncertainty, flashy financial advice, and constant lifestyle upgrades, it's easy to lose sight of the long-term costs of the choices we make. Whether you're tempted by a YOLO trip, a new car, or you're navigating a job change, this episode helps you weigh the true impact of your decisions—both financially and emotionally. You'll walk away from this conversation with a stronger understanding of how to align your spending with your values and how to avoid the common pitfalls that can quietly sabotage your financial progress. In this episode, we discuss: The opportunity costs behind your everyday decisions How to fight lifestyle creep so you can save more with each raise Why it's never too early to start saving for retirement (and the power of compound interest) The hidden costs of DIY-ing your financial plan How a financial planner can help you save money and optimize your decisions Why planning ahead now can help you reshape your next chapter after a layoff or career change What to consider as you think through big purchases or major life decisions Even in uncertain times, you are in control of your choices—and the future you build starts with the ones you make today. Links & Resources  Download Lauryn's Free Financial Resource: 5 Must-Ask Questions Before Hiring a Financial Planner About Lauryn Williams Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here].   Follow Us on Social Media Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning Follow the Worth Listening Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

Whether you saw it coming or it was a total shock, getting laid off can flip your world upside down. But a layoff doesn't have to derail your financial future—or your confidence. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner® Chloe Moore joins Lauryn Williams to break down how to navigate a layoff with clarity and control. From negotiating severance and protecting your credit to preparing emotionally and financially for what's next, they offer practical, empowering advice for anyone facing—or worried about—a job loss. If you're in the middle of a career transition or want to be ready just in case, this episode will help you move forward with peace of mind. Key Takeaways What to do first when you receive a layoff notice How severance, PTO, and unemployment benefits really work Budgeting tips to help you stretch your runway Why you shouldn't rush to roll over your 401(k) How to protect your credit and manage debt during a layoff What to know about healthcare and life insurance after leaving a job Side hustles, consulting, and selling items: how to bridge the gap Emotional strategies for staying grounded during uncertainty Steps to take now if you're worried a layoff might be coming Links & Resources Mentioned Healthcare.gov – Explore COBRA alternatives and check for subsidies Know Better Do Better: Preparing for Uncertainty Know Better, Do Better Series: Types of Equity Compensation Part 1: RSU Know Better, Do Better Series: Equity Compensation Part 2: Understanding ISOs and NQSOs Download Lauryn's Free Financial Resource: 5 Must-Ask Questions Before Hiring a Financial Planner Money Quote:  "Some changes look negative on the surface, but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge." — Eckhart Tolle