{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Fix Your Finances: Practical Steps to Save More, Spend Smarter & Reduce Stress ASKITA Podcast E181 (Audio only)","description":" In this episode of A Swift Kick in the Ass, John Curren sits down with Lori Atwood, CFP\u00ae and founder of Fearless Finance, for a candid and practical conversation about financial planning, debt management, and building long\u2011term financial resilience. For the full video version go to: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Y6CcJd_o5aA Whether you\u2019re facing financial stress, trying to pay down debt, or simply want a clearer roadmap for your future, this episode gives you the tools and mindset to take control. John and Lori break down the real challenges people face with money\u2014from college expenses to unexpected emergencies\u2014and explain why most financial problems are fixable when you stop avoiding them. Lori shares her expert guidance on creating emergency savings, building a 4\u20136 month financial cushion, and understanding how personality and relationship dynamics influence spending habits. John opens up about his own debt\u2011free journey, the struggles he faced while raising two young children, and how aligning his financial decisions with his life goals ultimately strengthened his family. Together, they explore the connection between happiness, contentment, and financial behavior, offering listeners a powerful blend of emotional insight and practical strategy. Lori also outlines a simple, actionable roadmap for financial resilience, including: Starting with a $1,000 emergency fund Building toward 4\u20136 months of expenses Creating rainy\u2011day reserves Tracking spending to reduce financial anxiety Using high\u2011yield savings or brokerage accounts for reserves The episode wraps with John sharing his long\u2011term vision\u2014including his dream of purchasing and developing an island property in Virginia as an Airbnb\u2014and Lori offering a special $50 discount on Fearless Finance services for podcast listeners. Key Topics Covered How to face financial fears and stop avoiding money Building emergency savings and long\u2011term financial resilience Paying off debt while managing family responsibilities The psychology of spending and emotional triggers Money dynamics in relationships and communication strategies Practical steps to reduce financial stress Aligning money decisions with happiness and life goals   About Our Guest Lori Atwood, CFP\u00ae Founder of Fearless Finance Specializing in fee\u2011only, hourly financial planning that empowers individuals and families to take control of their financial lives. ","author_name":"A Swift Kick In The Ass: Personal Growth & Resilience Podcast","author_url":"http:\/\/www.aswiftkickintheass.com\/","html":"