Financial Wellness at Work

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May 2026

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Financial Finesse Financial Coaches work with people from all walks of life and have literally seen it all! They’ve supported employees and participants (and their families) through debt, cash flow, and credit challenges, buying homes, growing their families, marriages and divorces, retirement planning, and more. Financial stress doesn’t exist in a silo – it influences everything, including mental and physical health, relationships, and productivity. We’ll dig into it all. About Financial Finesse Financial Finesse is the leading independent global provider of unbiased financial coaching as an employee benefit, driving measurable improvements in employee financial wellness and proven employer ROI. Employees receive unlimited access to certified financial coaches—CFP® professionals or in‑country equivalents—and AI‑powered guidance that expands reach and personalization with trusted human oversight at every step. Serving more than 20,000 organizations and reaching millions of employees worldwide through a single integrated platform, Financial Finesse delivers localized experiences tailored to each employee’s country, language, culture, financial system, and benefits. The result: reduced financial stress, seamless scalability for employers, and a benefit employees trust, value, and actively use.

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34 recent

May 15, 202643 min

Pam Krueger on Financial Confidence, Advice vs. Sales, and Finding a Fiduciary Advisor

If there’s a secret to managing money, it’s this: the small steps are the strategy. After spending over a decade seen on PBS, helping everyday investors make smarter decisions, award-winning financial analyst Pam Krueger built her own game-changing platform. Wealthramp matches investors with vetted, fee-only fiduciary financial advisors. Join us as Pam explains how time does the heavy lifting when we commit to taking the small steps that move us toward long-term financial security. We unpack building financial literacy from a young age, Pam’s experience launching an investor education television series built around real financial stories, and the critical difference between financial knowledge and financial advice. We also explore what estate planning actually means, the guiding principles every financial advisor should follow, why vetting the people you trust with your money is essential, how AI is helping improve financial education and outcomes, and why managing your finances should always be a collaborative relationship between you and your advisor. Thanks for listening! Key Points From This Episode:Pam Krueger’s history as a financial analyst, public television host, and Wealthramp founder. The story behind her podcast, Friends Talk Money.Key financial advice that is applicable to anyone: get confident. How a step-by-step approach is the solution to every financial problem.Where Pam’s journey with financial literacy first began. Why children emulate what their parents do financially rather than what they are taught. Pam’s experience of starting a TV series that ran on over 250 PBS stations to showcase real financial stories.The difference between financial knowledge and financial advice.What estate planning actually is.A guiding principle for financial advisors.Why it is so important to vet who you take financial advice from.How AI is helping with education and setting people up for success. Why managing your money should be a collaboration with your practitioner. Quotes:“Financial literacy is all about empowering and building wealth, but it’s also about reducing stress.” — Pam Krueger [0:06:14]“In this world of money, knowledge really is the power — it’s the superpower!” — Pam Krueger [0:06:23]“A financial advisor is not a transaction. If it’s done properly, and you have the right advisor, it’s your financial decision partner for the rest of your life if you want it.” — Pam Krueger [0:23:45]“I want people to not reach for help out of fear or out of weakness. I want people to reach out and stop and really take it slow.” — Pam Krueger [0:27:55]“Understand you’ve got to vet, vet, vet who are you going to listen to that’s going to give you advice.” — Pam Krueger [0:31:11]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Pam KruegerPam Krueger on LinkedInPam Krueger on InstagramWealthrampFriends Talk Money PodcastCalifornia JumpstartJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

April 12, 202628 min

It's Not Too Late Too File Your Taxes!

Host Julie Everett is joined by Financial Finesse coach Kari Cedegren and Jenell Koelblin, Site Coordinator - Lane County Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), to answer common tax-season questions and outline practical steps to prepare. They explain VITA (IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program as a free tax prep and filing service for lower- and moderate-income households, seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English speakers, and describe volunteer training and certification. The conversation covers when to hire a tax professional (complex situations like rentals, stock options/AMT, multi-state filing), organizing documents, and the impact of changes like no tax on overtime and no tax on tips, plus refundable credits such as the child tax credit and EITC, and Oregon-specific credits including the kicker. They clarify that filing an extension gives more time to file but not to pay, discuss IRS payment plans and safe harbor rules, and emphasize filing even if you can’t pay to avoid penalties.00:00 Tax Season Kickoff00:44 Meet the Guests01:39 VITA Explained03:55 Who Qualifies04:51 DIY or Hire Help07:56 Free Filing Options09:02 Get Your Docs Ready09:45 New Tax Changes12:05 Refundable Credits16:14 Tips and Gig Work18:29 Extensions Demystified20:02 If You Owe Taxes22:25 VITA Extensions Help23:09 Key Takeaways Recap26:00 Final Thoughts28:54 Wrap Up and Thanks29:47 Share and SubscribeFinancial FinesseJulie EverettKari CedegrenOSU VITAFile Your Taxes for FreeFree Tax Return Preparation

April 2, 2026Episode 518 min

Majd Talks: Breaking Barriers in Soccer and Finance

Growth is rarely a straight line, but for today’s guest, the path has been nothing short of vertical. Through her leadership role as Director of Growth at the U.S. Soccer Federation, Majd Steitieh initiated a huge shift in how soccer operates in the country. During this conversation, we talk about career evolution, organizational impact, and the grit that it takes to get there. Majd also shares how shifting her financial mindset has enabled her to sharpen her focus and take more meaningful ownership of her work. If there’s one thing to take away from this episode, it’s that growth doesn’t happen by accident; it happens by design, and the impact of Majd’s work is a great example of exactly how this works. Tune in to hear more!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to our first repeat guest: Majd Steitieh.The U.S. Soccer Federation’s mission and what keeps Majd motivated.What her day-to-day work looks like and how she is building resources for young people.How she sees the work evolving over the next five years.Creating opportunities for existing talent who otherwise may not have had access to them.The most daunting aspects of working at U.S. Soccer.How gaining control over her financial wellness has allowed Majd to shift her focus.The power of a financial mindset shift: how it enables you to take ownership over your work.Quotes:“Sometimes cost, transportation, and access to clubs are barriers, and so we’ve taken soccer to where the kids already are, which is at school.” — Majd Steitieh [0:02:17]“What keeps me motivated is that same idea that soccer can genuinely be a force for good.” — Majd Steitieh [0:03:52]“While the day-to-day varies, the throughline is always the same: listen to the ecosystem, identify where the pathway can be stronger, and then build solutions that make it easier for more people to enter, stay, and grow within the game.” — Majd Steitieh [0:07:58]“Being financially fit isn’t just about stability, but it’s about unlocking the ability to show up fully in your life and in your work.” — Majd Steitieh [0:15:02]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Majd Steitieh on LinkedInU.S. SoccerJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

March 16, 2026Episode 437 min

Women Who Talk Money: Celebrating International Women's Month

What does leadership in financial wellness look like when people need more than the right numbers to make real change? In this International Women’s Month episode, we sit down with Liz Davidson, CEO of Financial Finesse, and Carolyn Fraser, Head of Internal Sales at Ascensus, to discuss the progress women have made in financial services and the responsibility that comes with representation. They unpack why financial wellness is tied to trust, behavior, and accountability, why outcomes matter more than simple metrics, and why the “how” of leadership shapes culture and client relationships. Liz and Carolyn also share insights on authenticity at work, finding environments where you can succeed without fitting into a mold, and the difference between mentorship and sponsorship when you are building a career. Tune in for a motivating discussion about building deeper professional relationships, staying grounded, and creating the kind of support that helps women thrive.Key Points From This Episode:Hear how financial wellness is determined by trust and leadership style.Discover the significance of the “how” in sales and client relationships.Find out how to balance authenticity with adaptation in the workplace.Unpack the misconception that women must fit a mold to succeed in finance.How to find leaders and workplaces that appreciate your unique gifts and talents.Learn about the difference between mentorship and sponsorship.What women need to consider when looking for mentorship or sponsorship.Investigate whether the financial sector has fully embraced women.Why building fewer but deeper relationships is better than traditional networking.Explore financial wellness trends in AI, longevity, and personalized experiences.Advice that they would give their younger selves, given what they know now.Final takeaways and how to build a career through mentorship and sponsorship.Quotes:“You are going to be much more successful really embracing who you truly are and what your unique gifts and talents are.” — Liz Davidson [0:11:57]“The cognitive load of having to constantly feel like you're putting on an act, I think, is exhausting to the person but also very expensive [for] the employer.” — Liz Davidson [0:13:02]“Who you know is still an important dynamic, I think, maybe now more than ever, and looking for people who can be the mentor [or] the sponsor.” — Carolyn Fraser [0:21:58]“It’s okay to change your path. You’re not failing if the thing that you thought you were going to do for the rest of your life is not what actually happens.” — Carolyn Fraser [0:29:53]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Liz Davidson on LinkedInCarolyn Fraser on LinkedInAscensusJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

March 2, 20262 min

Markets in a Moment of Tension: What the Iran Escalation Means for Your Money

Over the weekend, tensions escalated between Iran, Israel, and the United States and markets are reacting.In this episode, we step back from the headlines and focus on what actually matters for your financial life.What happens to oil prices during geopolitical conflict? Could gas and grocery costs rise again? What does short-term volatility really mean for your 401(k)?More importantly, how should you respond?We break down the potential ripple effects on inflation, energy markets, and equities. We outline practical steps you can take right now, from reviewing your emergency fund to avoiding panic-based decisions.Global events may be outside your control. Your financial habits are not.This episode is your reminder to stay steady, stay strategic, and keep your long-term plan intact.Julie Everett, MBA, CFP® | LinkedInHome - Financial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

February 16, 2026Episode 314 min

Scaling Support: How AI Helps One Coach Empower Thousands of Employees

In the finance world, AI can serve as a powerful bridge to scale financial coaching without replacing human connection. Join the conversation today on the Financial Wellness at Work podcast, as Julie Everett and Scott Stark discuss how AI-amplified financial coaching helps employees get the personalized guidance they need. They look at how they’re using AI in both their personal and professional lives, discuss the idea that AI might take the jobs of financial coaches, how Scott is leveraging AI to be a better coach, and the difference between general AI and purpose-built AI. To learn more about how employees can use AI safely, don’t miss out on this insightful episode! Key Points From This Episode: • How Scott is using AI in both his personal and professional life. • They discuss the question: “Will AI take the jobs of financial coaches?” • How he is leveraging AI to be a better financial coach. • Purpose-built AI: looking at different sources AI pulls from and the importance of terminology. • The difference between general AIs and purpose-built AIs. • How employees can use AI safely. • The takeaway message from today’s episode. Quotes: “From my perspective, and the ways that I use [AI], and the ways that I've seen [AI being used], it is not so much in replacing or eliminating things but in just enhancing them.” — Scott Stark [0:03:26] “[Our AI] gives us a lot more real-time information about what's on people's minds to enable us to better help them improve their financial wellness.” — Scott Stark [0:10:11] “We covered a really hot topic here today, but I think the message for employees and for HR leaders is pretty simple: that AI is not a replacement for a human connection. It's going to be a bridge that makes that connection possible at scale and really attainable for everybody.” — Julie Everett [0:12:49] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Julie Everett on LinkedInScott Stark on LinkedInRay-Ban Meta Smart GlassesAimeeFinancial FinesseEmail Financial FinesseThe State of Generative AI Adoption in 2025 | St. Louis Fed

January 28, 2026Episode 216 min

New Rules for Your Money: Everything You Need to Know About OBBBA

The passing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has brought about a lot of changes for employees, and it’s important to discuss these things as we head into 2026. Joining us to tell you what you need to know about OBBBA are Financial Finesse coaches, Dan Andrews and Stephanie Thomas. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about the new ‘no tax on overtime’ rule, how that will affect an employee’s tax refund, and what the increase in the new standard deduction means for employees. We discuss the increase in the SALT (State and Local Taxes) deduction before talking about how employees should handle the temporary phase-out perk. Finally, we touch on refundable tax credits. Thanks for listening! Key Points From This Episode:What the new ‘no tax on overtime’ rule means for employees. A little bit about the new standard deductions. Touching on the increase in the SALT deduction. Why it is important to be aware that the phase-out perk will end. The child tax credit changes and what the refundable tax credit means. Quotes:“Not every financial planner says this, [but you want to] have a little bit [of money] for fun. Because, you know, money is a tool to enjoy your life.” — Dan Andrews [0:05:21]“There’s actually a new bonus, it’s an additional deduction of $6,000, for seniors who are aged 65 and older – on top of that standard deduction.” — Stephanie Thomas [0:08:58]“With this new bump up of the state and local taxes going from $10,000 to $40,000 of the capped limit, a lot more people are going to start looking into itemizing their deductions.” — Dan Andrews [0:11:27]“A refundable [tax] credit can actually be money back in your pocket.” — Stephanie Thomas [0:15:04]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dan Andrews on LinkedInStephanie Thomas on LinkedInOne, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)Julie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

January 15, 2026Episode 117 min

Cracking the Benefits Code: Lessons from the EBRI Symposium

Welcome to season five of Financial Wellness at Work! In this episode, we welcome our very own Think Tank director, Greg Ward, and financial coach, Scott Stark, to discuss their takeaways from the EBRI (Employee Benefit Research Institute) Symposium as we head into a new year. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about why this event is so beneficial, what was discussed at the HSA roundtable, how the day started by touching on the affordability issue, and so much more. We delve into what stood out to Scott and Greg from the discussions before touching on the power of efficient education and leveraging technology appropriately. We even talk about what a private letter ruling is! Finally, Greg and Scott talk about how offering employees a choice on how their money is spent improves their benefit satisfaction massively. To hear all this and more, be sure to press play now, and stay tuned for more episodes where we will unpack more about the benefits code! Key Points From This Episode:Why the EBRI Symposium is such an amazing and beneficial event. One of the main challenges the industry faces: affordability and retirement saving. What stood out from the event and the importance of auditing as a benefit manager. The importance of education to improve the financial health of the American worker. How technology can help us integrate benefits and provide a personalized experience. The power of offering employees a choice on how money is spent. Quotes:“The affordability issue is going to compete with the ability to save for retirement so if you’re not doing both when you’re younger, – it’s hard to catch up when you’re older.” — Greg Ward [0:05:03]“There are several things that are needed to improve the financial health of the American worker [and] the first is just the education itself.” — Greg Ward [0:10:06]“All this choice and all these other efforts that employers are making to support their employees – need some support.” — Scott Stark [0:14:15]“One in three people [who] have an HSA know little to nothing about it.” — Scott Stark [0:14:27]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Scott Stark on LinkedInGreg Ward on LinkedInEBRI SymposiumThink TankJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

December 9, 2025Episode 1014 min

Data Deep Dive: How Employees Are Really Managing Money

High inflation may have eased, but many employees are now facing the debt that built up while their budgets were stretched thin. In this episode of Financial Wellness at Work, Julie Everett talks with Scott Stark, CFP, Senior Financial Planner and Financial Wellness Think Tank researcher at Financial Finesse, about the financial patterns that defined 2025. Scott shares how employers have stepped up with creative programs that support workers navigating lingering financial pressure. He and Julie walk through new Think Tank findings, including debt now surpassing money management as the top coaching topic, the strong connection between overwhelming financial stress and credit report errors, and how a clear debt strategy can save years and thousands of dollars. They also unpack insights on tracking habits and why spreadsheets, though common, often add stress instead of reducing it. The episode ends with simple steps employees can use to lower stress and build momentum. Tune in to hear the data and learn how small changes can create meaningful financial progress!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing guest Scott Stark, CFP, and Financial Wellness Think Tank researcher.Looking back on the shifts in financial coaching conversations throughout 2025.How employers launched innovative programs to support employees’ financial needs.Why “debt” is overtaking “money management” as the top topic on the coaching line.Reflections on why higher financial stress leads to more errors on credit reports.Actions employees can take to check and correct inaccuracies in their reports.How a focused payoff plan can save years and significant interest costs.What the data shows about stressed employees relying heavily on spreadsheets.Why simpler tracking systems often reduce stress more effectively than spreadsheets.Practical steps to help employees create quick wins and maintain financial momentum.Quotes:“During that time [of high inflation], people probably had to turn to debt a lot just to get through, and now dealing with that debt is front and center. So debt conversations have surpassed those money management conversations [in frequency].” — Scott Stark [0:03:38]“This is an opportunity for some quick wins. There are a lot of things about getting out of debt that are not fun and long-term and can be a real grind, but bumping up your credit score can really be a nice boost.” — Scott Stark [0:05:52]“If you have to sign into a spreadsheet every day or week or even month, that's a lot of work. It’s a tough thing to stick to.” — Scott Stark [0:11:19]“The option that is the most correlated with lowering your financial stress is more of an informal tracking system.” — Scott Stark [0:11:43]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Scott Stark on LinkedInJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse

November 11, 2025Episode 931 min

How to Have a Happy (Budget-Friendly) Holiday Season

The holidays can be an overwhelming time financially, and today on Financial Wellness at Work, we are joined by financial services expert, Kaitlin Vangura, to discuss how you can spend smart this season so that you can be present with your family and focus on what really matters! Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Kaitlin’s approach to the holidays, how she manages budgeting without becoming a ‘grinch’, how (and when) to plan financially for this time of year, how you can make some extra cash over the holidays, and so much more! We delve into how to make gift-giving more intentional and less financially burdensome before discussing why Kaitlin doesn’t like Black Friday. We even discuss how you can avoid last-minute shopping pressure during the holidays. Finally, our guest shares some invaluable advice about letting go of perfection during the holidays. Thanks for listening in!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s guest, Kaitlin Vangura. Why the holidays always sneak up on us financially. How (and when) we plan for the holidays by budgeting. Some tips for making some extra cash for the holidays. Why she loves Secret Santa and her thoughts on Black Friday.How to avoid getting sucked into last-minute shopping chaos.What to do in January if you overspend over the holidays.Kaitlin shares some advice for her former ‘grinch-like’ self. Quotes:“I think drawing boundaries is a really good thing to do, especially if the idea of trying to get gifts for everyone is very stressful.” — Kaitlin Vangura [0:14:11]“Keeping your eyes and ears open throughout the year, I think, is a much better strategy than trying to just go all in on the Black Friday sales.” — Kaitlin Vangura [0:17:04]“Stop putting so much pressure on [yourself] to make [the holidays] perfect. It doesn’t have to be perfect!” — Kaitlin Vangura [0:28:08]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kaitlin Vangura on LinkedInJulie Everett on LinkedInFinancial FinesseEmail Financial Finesse