Financial Coaches Network - The Podcast: Build your Financial Coaching Business

Hosted by Joshua Escalante Troesh, Garrett Philbin, Amelie Riendl, and Emily Blain

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213

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Aug 2026

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August 15, 202632 min

#213: When Should I Get an Office?

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® break down the stages of evolving your workspace as a financial professional, from arranging your first home office to deciding when it’s time for an office outside the home. They explore privacy, professionalism, client expectations, city regulations, and how AI is reshaping in‑person trust. Top takeaways: Stage 1: A dedicated, private, lockable space is essential for confidentiality when meeting with clients. Stage 2: As more clients request in‑person meetings (especially in an era of AI uncertainty) having a professional, a client‑ready space within the home becomes increasingly important. Stage 3: Growth, hiring staff, city zoning rules, and client volume may require transitioning to an external office. Shared office spaces have changed; subleasing from professionals may be a better option. Not every client should be invited into a home office, identify your criteria such as an established relationship, signed agreement, advance payment, and engagement level. Business maturity drives the final step. When your workload, staff needs, or client flow exceed what a home setup can support, a standalone office becomes the natural next phase. This episode gives financial coaches a clear, practical framework for recognizing when it’s time to upgrade their workspace to support long‑term business growth. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

August 1, 202643 min

#212: When The Money Runs Out Before the Month Does

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® explore why households sometimes run out of money before the month ends, how to recognize warning signs, and what practical steps can help close the gap between income and expenses. Josh and Amelie discuss emotional dynamics, spending patterns, budgeting strategies, and ways to thoughtfully increase income. Together, they break down both short‑term fixes and long‑term solutions for getting back on track. Top takeaways: Spot the warning signs: Rising debt balances, shrinking savings, denied loans, relationship stresses, or unusual financial account activity may signal a need to look into your spending. Avoid blame: Blame (toward a partner or yourself) shuts down conversations and problem‑solving. Focus on understanding the cause rather than assigning fault. Identify the root cause: Determine whether the issue is a one‑time event, an annual expense, or a recurring monthly shortfall. Each requires a different solution. Start big: Look for opportunities to change your biggest expenses first (e.g., housing, cars). Even though they’re harder to change, they can be easily ruled out and may have a massive impact if you can find one to change. Prioritize what matters : Protect “sacred” spending categories and start trimming low‑priority, high‑cost areas first. Introduce friction: Make impulse spending harder—remove saved cards, disable one‑click purchases, and delete shopping accounts. Increase visibility: Track spending using software, avoid cash, and set regular check‑ins to understand where you are throughout the month. Before making a major financial decision, set a spending limit that prompts a check-in. Analyze impact of cutting expenses: When looking for places to reduce expenses, take time to understand the impact of reducing or eliminating that expense. Instead of going cold turkey, try cutting back slowly to see how it actually impacts your life and well-being. Consider income adjustments: Explore job changes, negotiate raises, or pursue small educational steps that boost earning potential. Small wins matter: Even closing the gap by $100–$200 a month is meaningful progress. Focus on positive progress, not the total gap. With awareness, communication, and some intentional changes, you can turn a stressful money shortfall into a path toward stability and confidence. Resources: Episode 210: The Simple Budget Roadmap Episode 205: Guilt & Shame Around Money Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

July 15, 202630 min

#211: Business Loans - From Setup to Repayment

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® break down how to properly structure, document, and repay owner-funded business loans—from deciding whether the money should be treated as a loan or a capital contribution, to understanding tax, legal, and bookkeeping implications. The conversation highlights why documentation matters, when to involve an attorney, and how repayment mechanics work. Top takeaways: Many new businesses start with capital contributions, not loans, which add unnecessary complexity early on. The first (and most important) step is deciding whether the money should be a loan or a capital contribution, as each has different tax and legal consequences. Proper documentation protects you in audits and lawsuits; even loans to yourself could benefit from having a signed agreement outlining the key terms of the loan. Loan payments must be split between principal and interest, and interest must be reported as income to the owner. Proper bookkeeping may benefit from hiring professional services to help. If repayment terms need flexibility, an attorney should draft provisions that a reasonable third party would accept. Poorly documented loans can jeopardize liability protection and may require costly retroactive bookkeeping and tax corrections. With thoughtful planning and proper documentation, owner loans can support your business without creating future financial or legal headaches. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

July 1, 202632 min

#210: The Simple Budget Roadmap

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® break down why most first-time budgets fail and offers a simple, realistic roadmap for building a budget you can actually stick with. Top takeaways: Budgets fail when they’re too complex, too time‑consuming, or overly restrictive. Start with a simple budget: Use reliable monthly income as your baseline—especially if your income varies. Identify fixed expenses first (such as rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries), turning them into a fixed expense if possible. Estimate optional obligations (like streaming or gym memberships). Identify lifestyle expenses , recognizing that your estimates will be off the first few months (or longer!). List financial goals as if money were unlimited (both debt & savings goals). Prioritize your goals realistically–you will likely not fund them all at one time. Building your first budget should take about 15 minutes—don’t get lost in details. Focus on forward progress when you first start budgeting, not perfection. Make sure your experience with budgeting is a positive one. Be careful not to identify optional expenses as necessities. Building a basic budget will take months to get “right” (and it will never be perfect). Convert irregular costs (holidays, car repairs, gifts) into monthly sinking funds. High‑interest debt payoff will likely be one of the top goals for most people. Create a “wish list” for extra income months so decisions aren’t driven by impulse. To go beyond the simple budget, consider using a software to help track spending ongoing. With a simple roadmap and a few intentional choices, anyone can build a budget that fuels their goals and transforms their financial future. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

June 15, 202625 min

#209: Effective Websites Part II

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® continue their discussion into what makes a website truly effective. The conversation explores how to build trust, structure your site, avoid common design pitfalls, and ensure your website actually supports your business goals. Top takeaways: Build trust on your website through signals, such as credentials, media mentions, and affiliations, rather than volume of content. A homepage should clarify your value proposition and guide the next step Match your website’s design to your niche’s preferences (e.g., compartmentalized vs. one page, device used for access, scrolling vs. clicking). Know when to stop DIY‑ing and get help designing or managing your website Don’t overload your website with information, unless your niche wants the detail Attract your niche and intentionally filter out people who are not your ideal client Focus on a primary purpose for your website (e.g., client vs prospect), rather than trying to appeal to multiple audiences Review your site regularly for outdated pricing, processes, or credentials When your website reflects your purpose, your values, and your niche, it becomes one of the most powerful marketing tools in your business. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

June 1, 202622 min

#208: Effective websites: Part I

In this first episode of a two part series, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® discuss what makes a website convert, starting with defining your site’s primary purpose and truly understanding your niche. Top takeaways: Start by identifying your website’s primary goal, even if it will support many functions Don’t copy websites you like, instead focus on what your audience would like Focus on your niche for messaging, such as language, depth, and tone Navigation should follow how users naturally search, and your website’s purpose Analyze real user behavior to refine pages, navigation, and calls to action. Lead with what prospects care about most If you don’t deeply understand your niche, you don’t have one. As Josh puts it, “When you just have a group of people that you haven’t done the research on… you don’t have a niche.” Watch for the next episode, where we continue our conversation on building effective, high‑converting websites. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

May 15, 202646 min

#207: Decode Your Paycheck: What All Those Numbers Really Mean

In this episode, Joshua Escalante Troesh CFP® and Amelie Riendl AFC® break down each section of a paycheck—what the numbers mean, why they matter, and how understanding them can help you avoid surprises and make smarter financial decisions. They explore required and optional deductions, tax withholdings, employer‑provided benefits, PTO tracking, and common paycheck misconceptions. The conversation empowers listeners to confidently read their pay stubs, spot errors, and use HR and financial professionals as resources. Top takeaways: Why it matters: Understanding your paycheck helps you anticipate taxes, bonuses, and benefits—and avoid surprises. Required deductions: Federal and state tax withholding, Social Security, Medicare, unemployment insurance (UI), and disability insurance (DI) all appear on your pay stub, often under confusing acronyms. Bonuses aren’t taxed more: They feel heavily taxed because withholding formulas differ, not the tax rate itself. Your W‑4 is powerful: Adjusting it can prevent big tax bills or oversized refunds; many never revisit it after being hired. You pay for Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Disability Insurance (DI): These aren’t “government handouts”—the insurance premiums are deducted from your paycheck. Using them when you need them is no different than filing a claim with your car insurance after an accident. Optional deductions: 401(k) contributions, employer stock plans, life and disability insurance, and other benefits may impact taxable income. PTO tracking matters: Vacation and sick time accruals are often miscalculated—monitoring them protects benefits you’ve earned. Paycheck fluctuations: Changes often come from hitting the Social Security cap, maxing out 401(k) contributions, benefit changes, PTO payout, or reimbursement timing. Red flags: Hours worked not matching the pay stub, PTO not accruing correctly, or unexplained swings in deductions. HR/Payroll is your ally: Most issues are simple system errors, and HR teams want to help employees understand their benefits and deductions (they may even be excited to share it with you). Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

May 1, 202625 min

#206: What do I do when a past client reaches out for "free" advice?

In this episode, Josh and Amelie tackle the tricky situation of past clients reaching out for “quick” free advice and how financial coaches can respond professionally, ethically, and without resentment. The hosts explore liability concerns, time boundaries, client expectations, and the importance of avoiding assumptions about a client’s motivations. They also share practical scripts and strategies for setting clearer expectations in future engagements. Top takeaways : A client’s history matters: a positive past relationship may lower risk, while a contentious one increases liability concerns. Not responding can create more liability than providing advice — or vice versa — depending on the situation. Your time has value; if a question requires more than a quick response, you may choose to offer a paid one‑off session. When you can’t responsibly answer, explain why (e.g., I don’t have updated information, I have questions for you) and offer factors and questions for them to consider. Provide a path forward; some ideas include: a link to schedule a consultation or coaching session, a short‑term engagement proposal, or suggestion for an annual update. Frequent “quick question” clients may need a gentle nudge toward an ongoing or annual service model. Never assume a client’s motivation — many genuinely believe their question is simple and may be reaching out simply because they trust you. Set expectations early: define what follow‑up support includes, what’s out of scope, and how additional questions are handled. Avoid reinforcing the pattern by responding with “no problem, reach out anytime,” even when the question is simple. Boundaries protect both sides: responsible advice requires current information, context, and a professional structure. Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Start here: Exploring financial coaching? Join our free community of 6,000+ coaches: https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity Ready to learn more? Get our free 8‑part email series with 30+ tips: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series Launching your business? Check out FCN Biz DIY, our step‑by‑step program: https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy Love coaching but not running a business? Beta test MoneyCoach Network: https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043

April 15, 202631 min

#205: Guilt & Shame Around Money

This episode with Josh and Amelie explores the difference between guilt and shame around money, why so many people internalize financial mistakes, and how those emotions can either motivate change or shut it down. The hosts break down how societal pressure, financial pundits, and even well‑meaning professionals can unintentionally fuel shame — and what it takes to separate your identity from your financial actions. They close with practical steps for rebuilding a healthier relationship with money through small, consistent decisions. Top takeaways: Guilt is about actions (“I made a mistake”), while shame attacks identity (“I am a bad person” or “I don’t have self control”). Shame often comes from external sources — society, family, financial pundits — while guilt tends to come from within. Tone and language matter: even well‑meaning financial professionals can unintentionally trigger shame. Common guilt triggers include debt, retirement savings, renting vs. owning, parenting pressures, and social comparison. Social media amplifies unrealistic comparisons, making people feel uniquely flawed even when their struggles are common. The first step in healing is separating you from your financial actions — you are not your mistakes. Professional psychological support can help untangle shame and build healthier thinking patterns. Change starts with identifying specific actions, not broad failures (“What exactly led to this?”). Not all “bad” financial outcomes mean the decision was wrong — context and long‑term impact matter. Small, repeated good decisions compound over time; you don’t need perfection, just a better ratio of good to bad choices.

April 1, 202634 min

#204: FINRA Fellowship - A Path to AFC® Certification for Military Spouses

Amelie discusses FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship Program, a path to AFC Certification for mil spouses! She is joined by Valerie Richards from AFCPE® and Cherie Stueve, a frequent FINRA Fellowship Instructor to discuss the process! Top takeaways: The FINRA Fellowship process is a great networking and community building opportunity. The AFCPE Symposium is a huge networking and community building conference for everyone!! It’s a very strong, tightknit group with strong interpersonal connections and support both during and after the certification process. There are regular, virtual, regional meetings as well to chat and connect. Applications are open now! You can find more info here: https://www.finrafoundation.org/military-spouse-fellowship-program 2026 Deadline: April 15, 2026