For Better and Worth

Hosted by Chris Young and Ericka Young

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Episodes

182

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

For Better and Worth is a personal finance and relationship podcast hosted by married couple Chris Young and Ericka Young, who believe the strongest partnerships are built on love, communication, and a solid financial foundation. Each episode, they bring their own money journey into honest conversation, covering everything from investing and net worth milestones to homeownership, budgeting, and raising financially savvy kids. Real topics. Real experience. Real talk between two people who are figuring it out together. Because a good life takes more than love. It takes purpose, partnership, and the power to make it all worth it.

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June 16, 2026Episode 18234 min

Five Signs You’re Killing It Financially (Ep 182)

 Navigating financial progress can feel overwhelming, but sometimes you’re already doing better than you think. This episode is a motivating conversation about recognizing your wins, big and small, as you build financial security and personal growth. Listeners are shown how to spot five key signs they’re “killing it” and how to celebrate meaningful progress along the way.Key Moments & HighlightsAcknowledging Your Wins: We explore why people don’t give themselves enough credit and introduce the idea of celebrating progress, not just perfection 01:17.Emergency Fund Success: A key theme that emerged was the power of maintaining an untouched emergency fund and how it enables better decision-making in tough times 04:28.Smart Debt Management: There is immense value in not paying interest on debts and using credit wisely. We also share helpful credit card strategies 11:04.Consistent Retirement Savings: It is vital to make it automatic and consistent when saving for retirement and set realistic expectations for Social Security 15:01.Learning from Mistakes: Learning from our financial missteps ensures we grow. We discuss our tough landlord experiences as an example. These times can be a source of strength and help us make better choices 19:08.Increasing Net Worth: Tracking your net worth year over year is a simple and powerful measure of real financial progress 26:22.Celebrate & Reflect: Never forget to pause, appreciate milestones, and understand that personal growth is part of the journey 30:31.Who Should ListenThis episode is for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about their financial journey. Couples, individuals, and anyone working toward financial goals who need a reminder that progress, not perfection, is what matters should definitely listen in.Why Tune InTune in for genuine encouragement, real-world experiences, and practical tips that will help you see and celebrate your own financial wins. Whether you’re just starting out or further along, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and motivated to keep going strong.  This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorthOur website: www.forbetterandworth.comGet Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlightConnect with us:Instagram: @forbetterandworthYouTube: @forbetterandworthEricka: @erickayoungofficialChris: @1cbyoung 

June 15, 2026Episode 18142 min

Why Earning Six Figures Doesn't Feel Like Enough Anymore (Ep 181)

 Securing a six-figure income isn't always the financial freedom many expect, especially in today’s economy. In this candid conversation, we break down why even good salaries can leave you feeling pinched and explore how geography, lifestyle choices, and inflation impact your bottom line. This episode is an eye-opener for anyone seeking to maximize their earnings without letting embarrassment or lifestyle creep sabotage financial goals.Key MomentsThe Reality Check of Six-Figure Living: Why having $3 in the bank after earning $120k is not uncommon 00:27Dissecting Expenses & Lifestyle Creep: The surprising ways housing, property taxes, and daily costs eat away at your income 06:10, 06:31How Geography Shapes Financial Well-being: Comparing high-cost and lower-cost areas—and the invisible impact of moving 08:08Making Big Financial Choices: Prioritizing home purchases, car expenses, and setting spending boundaries 12:19, 15:10Intentionality Versus Influence: Distinguishing between planned financial moves and consumer persuasion 21:11The Importance of "Big Rocks": What it means to build your spending and saving around core values like giving, retirement, and essentials 33:14Practical Audit Tips: How to spot where your money’s really going and reset your priorities 38:48, 39:09Why You Should Tune InThis episode offers actionable strategies for squeezing more value from your income—regardless of the actual number on your pay stub. Listeners will walk away with a renewed sense of hope, a toolkit for intentional spending, and confidence to break free from paycheck-to-paycheck stress. The real-world tips and humor keep the tough love relatable, making financial transformation both achievable and less intimidating.Who This Episode Is ForAnyone earning (or aspiring to earn) a six-figure income who feels their money just doesn’t stretch far enoughCouples and parents trying to make smarter financial decisions togetherYoung professionals grappling with rising living costs and saving goalsAnyone feeling embarrassed or overwhelmed by their financial situation and looking for encouragement and practical fixesThis Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorthOur website: www.forbetterandworth.comGet Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlightConnect with us:Instagram: @forbetterandworthYouTube: @forbetterandworthEricka: @erickayoungofficialChris: @1cbyoung 

June 3, 2026Episode 18038 min

Disagreeing Without Disaster: Techniques for Healthy Communication in Relationships (Ep 180)

Navigating disagreements is part of every relationship, but how you handle them can make all the difference. In this candid and lighthearted episode, we break down our real-life experiences, share practical communication tips, and even laugh about the household cooking responsibilities. By getting honest about both minor annoyances and major issues, we reveal our secrets to keeping a partnership strong, respectful, and fun.Key Moments & InsightsThe Importance of Respect During Disagreements: Chris explains how men often suppress emotions and why walking away can sometimes be healthier than arguing at 00:46, and Ericka stresses the value of never resorting to yelling or disrespect at 01:29.Opinionated Partners and Interruptions: We discuss the challenges of both being strong-willed and why listening is tough (and funny) at 05:28.Recurring Disagreement Over Cooking: Our ongoing “who cooks?” debate becomes a metaphor for compromise and understanding at 08:14.How to Handle Big Issues: We acknowledge bigger relationship landmines, like money and parenting, and emphasize when outside help is key at 19:37.Think the Best and Let Go of Grudges: Ericka shares the value of assuming the best intentions, while Chris cautions against weaponizing the past at 22:58.Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously: We show how humor and lightheartedness can defuse tension at 34:26.Who This Episode Is ForCouples wanting healthier communication and fewer argumentsAnyone frustrated by day-to-day annoyances at homeIndividuals navigating big relationship challenges (money, parenting, etc.)Listeners who appreciate honest, funny real-life stories about marriage and partnership This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorthOur website: www.forbetterandworth.comGet Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlightConnect with us:Instagram: @forbetterandworthYouTube: @forbetterandworthEricka: @erickayoungofficialChris: @1cbyoung 

May 27, 2026Episode 17937 min

What Happens When You Spend $2200 Without Talking to Your Spouse? (Ep 179)

Impulse spending can do more than throw off a budget. It can create stress, tension, and confusion in a relationship. In this episode, we share our story of a spontaneous charity auction bid that turned into an unexpected trip to Mexico, and how we navigated the surprise together. Who do you think raised the paddle during the auction? We talk honestly about what happened after the bid, including the budgeting conversations, emotional reactions, and decisions that followed. This episode is for couples who want to handle money with more communication, awareness, and teamwork without expecting perfection. Key Moments Why You Should Tune In This episode is an honest, often funny look at what happens when financial ground rules are tested by real-world opportunities. With relatable stories, practical budgeting wisdom, and a focus on teamwork, it offers takeaways for couples at any stage of their money journey. Listeners will walk away reassured that even disciplined budgeters occasionally make impulses work in their favor—and learn how communication and transparency can turn surprises into shared wins. Who This Episode Is For This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

May 20, 2026Episode 17835 min

Should You Marry for Money or Mindset? The Truth About Marrying Rich (Ep 178)

Searching for the real secret behind "marrying rich"? We dive into what it truly means to bring a "rich mindset" to your relationship. No we didn't marry for money but we definitely wanted to ensure that later on we would have some money! We share our first money impressions to serious discussions on finances and partnership. In this episode we unpack why wealth is more about attitude (and less about pocket change) when it comes to love. Key Moments Who Is This Episode For? This episode is a must-listen for couples (married or dating), singles thinking about partnership, anyone interested in financial compatibility, and parents guiding their adult children. If you want your relationship and your bank account to thrive, tune in! This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

May 13, 2026Episode 17737 min

Is Your Shoe Collection Worth the Investment? (Ep 177)

Whether you're justifying your shoe collection, splurging on your favorite vice, or trying to make sense of where your money goes, this episode dives into the real costs behind our everyday habits. We share a candid, funny, and insightful look at our own spending quirks, plus a jaw-dropping encounter with someone who owns 350 pairs of sneakers. Tune in for practical advice, relatable stories, and prompts to evaluate where your money (and fulfillment) actually goes. Key Moments Why Listeners Should Tune In Who This Episode Is For If you're striving for balance between enjoying today and planning for tomorrow, this is your must-listen episode. This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

May 6, 2026Episode 17633 min

Home Payoff Blueprint: How We Paid Off Our House Early and How You Can Do It Too (Ep 176)

Thinking about ditching your mortgage and living debt free? In this episode, We unpack our journey to the sweet freedom of owning our home outright. We discuss simple, actionable strategies, and the motivation you need to make your mortgage a thing of the past. No matter where you are starting from there is a strategy here for you. Key Moments Why You Should Tune In If you want to break free from decades of mortgage payments, build a life of options and security, and maybe even retire earlier than you thought possible, this episode is packed with encouragement and executable strategies. We keep it relatable, honest, and motivational, reminding you that intentionality—not perfection—is the secret ingredient. Who This Episode is For Tune in and get inspired to write your own home payoff success story! This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

April 29, 2026Episode 17532 min

We had $210,000 of Growth Proving the Rule of 72 Works! (Ep 175)

Are you curious about how your investments can really double over time? In this episode, we break down the Rule of 72 and share our personal stories that prove patient, persistent investing pays off. Whether you're skeptical about market returns or just want practical steps toward wealth-building, this conversation brings both real numbers and relatable advice. Key Moments to Listen For: Why You Should Tune In: This episode gives you more than just investment theory—it offers personal proof and clear steps you can take right now to grow your wealth. You'll learn to demystify intimidating investment concepts, ask better questions, and make your financial journey both smarter and less stressful. The hosts' approachable style and real-life results make these lessons both motivating and achievable. Who This Episode Is For: If you want to learn how real people double their money by letting time and consistency do the heavy lifting, this episode is for you! This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

April 22, 2026Episode 17441 min

From Parenting to Partnership: How Marriage Changes with an Empty Nest (Ep 174)

Description: Marriage evolves... and so do the people in it. In this episode, we get honest about communication, changing roles, and what it takes to make partnership work through life's seasons. We discuss: Who This Episode Is For This episode is for couples who are navigating transitions in their marriage, especially those approaching or experiencing the "empty nester" phase. If you and your spouse are reflecting on how your relationship evolves over time, confronting changes in your individual identities, or wanting to improve day-to-day communication as your family dynamics shift, this conversation will resonate with you. It's also relevant for anyone interested in authentic discussions about growing together through different life stages and understanding how to maintain connection, partnership, and friendship in marriage. This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

April 15, 2026Episode 17338 min

We Finally Paid Off Our Mortgage!!! Our Strategy for Paying Off Our Home Early (Ep 173)

In this episode, we share the exciting milestone of becoming completely debt free, including paying off our house. We break down the intentional steps and practical decisions that made this achievement possible. It has been a long-time coming but the freedom we feel today is completely worth all the effort! Here is what you'll learn in this episode: Who this is for: This episode is perfect for anyone striving for financial freedom, especially couples and families interested in becoming completely debt-free, including paying off their mortgage. It's for listeners who want practical strategies, real-life inspiration, and honest conversations about achieving big financial goals without sacrificing lifestyle. Whether you're just starting your debt-free journey or looking for motivation to keep going, this episode is for you! When it happens: 03:38 Paying off the mortgage early 07:18 Starting with intentional decisions 10:58 Paying off the house 15:46 Deciding to delay mortgage payoff 19:10 Prioritizing life's big goals 20:52 Planning housing for retirement 24:03 Financial freedom through real estate 29:23 Managing costs after paying off house 32:12 Paying off loans and interest 34:25 Managing stress and staying focused 36:22 Celebrating teamwork moment This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung