Money O2

Hosted by Erin Kuhn

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Nov 2025

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About the show

Welcome to MONEY O2! Erin serves as the President of Qnity and speaks on stages to help people change their money story and find greater economic empowerment. You’ll hear how real people took a deep breath and changed their lives by changing the way they feel, act, and think about money. Before we can take action to change our financial reality, we need to be empowered to believe that change is even possible. Spoiler Alert: It's possible. If you love being inspired and learning about money through the power of stories, this podcast is for you. Follow @erinkuhnbhansali and Qnity: Qnity.com

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49 recent

November 10, 202533 min

EPISODE 52 | Carl Richards | Money, Meaning & “Profit = Permission”: Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing

Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this conversation, I’m joined by Carl Richards—the creator of the Sketch Guy column, a CFP®, and bestselling author whose simple drawings help people see money more clearly. Carl’s story begins with an accidental entry into finance and evolves into a career dedicated to helping people talk honestly about money, align decisions with values, and take action.Carl and I explore how money acts like a mirror—revealing what we truly value through how we spend our time and money—and how real change happens when we move from “knowing” to doing.In this episode, Carl shares:The origin story behind his finance career and the Sketch Guy work that made money feel understandableWhy money is a portal to what matters—and how to read your spending/time for clues about your valuesA kinder way to start money talks: give yourself permission to be clumsy, and don’t give yourself permission to quit“Profit = permission”—a mindset shift that turns profit into fuel to keep doing the work (plus his essay, “Cash Flow Love”)A real family moment: staying in a hard conversation with his kids about tradeoffs (tuition, trips, expectations) and finding pride in disciplineThe “Isn’t this enough?” question and the generational scripts and shame many of us carry about moneyHis next book: a beautifully designed coffee-table project meant to spark everyday money conversations—on a salon counter, at a yoga studio, not just on CNBCWhy this matters for students, educators, and leaders:Money touches every journey. These simple frameworks—naming values, talking openly, and treating profit as permission—help close the gap between what we know and what we do.📣 I’d love to hear what resonated—DM me @erinkuhnbhansali or email erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com. Your feedback shapes future episodes and resources for schools and owners.To explore Carl’s work, check out The Behavior Gap and The One-Page Financial Plan, and follow him on Instagram @behaviorgap, and keep an eye out for his new design-forward book of sketches aimed at sparking real money conversations. Thanks for listening—see you next time!Erin

September 10, 202538 min

EPISODE 47 | Zachary (Zach) Foust | From “AI-Proof” Careers to Homeownership: Money, Housing & The Next Gen Reality

Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this timely episode, I'm joined by real estate executive and ‘influencer Zachary (Zach) Foust @zachary.loft—a real estate executive turned influencer who's reshaping conversations around money, work, the economy, and housing. Zach's journey wasn't linear: after working in the prison system and navigating years of trial-and-error, he built a profitable business that now sells 100+ homes annually—and along the way, completely transformed his approach to money, discipline, and freedom.Zach and I dive deep into the real headwinds facing today's students and young professionals: a market where median income barely scratches what's needed to afford a home, and a "K-shaped economy" where newcomers feel locked out while others surge ahead. We also explore how content culture can derail sustainable career building—and reveal the mindset shifts that actually create forward momentum.In this episode, Zach opens up about:His transformation from prison system worker to leading real estate executiveWhy "American dirt" (housing) evolved into a financial asset class—and what this means for first-time buyersPractical strategies when traditional homebuying math doesn't work: partnering with family/friends, adjusting timelines, and focusing on what you can controlHis targeted advice for Gen Z and early-career professionalsDaily disciplines that compound over time: consuming long-form, quality content and embracing the "investor, not consumer" mindsetWhy this matters for students, educators, and leaders: Money impacts every life journey, and today's economic landscape operates by different rules. Zach's refreshing candor and genuine passion for equipping the next generation with awareness of these NEW rules made this conversation especially meaningful.📣 I'd love to hear what resonated with you—DM me anytime @erinkuhnbhansali or email erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com. Your feedback truly helps shape future episodes and student resources.Thanks for listening—see you next time!Erin

August 26, 202547 min

EPISODE 46 | Chris Baran | Overcoming your Disabling Story

Welcome back to MONEYO2! Today, we’re joined by Chris Baran, renowned Educator and Coach - who talks about the real process of creating transformation. Chris shares his inspiring journey to overcome your “disabling stories.” This episode is packed with practical tips, mindset shifts, and empowering advice to help you break free from financial stress and build a prosperous future.In this episode, we dive into:Chris’s personal disabling story How to identify and rewrite the stories you tell about yourselfSteps to build habits that support long-term financial wellbeingThe importance of connecting with your deeper “why” to stay motivatedAnd so much moreThanks so much for tuning in! These conversations are a labor of love, and my hope is that you come away feeling inspired and ready to build your financial confidence.📩 I’d love to hear what resonated with you—DM me @erinkuhnbhansali or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com.To connect with Chris Baran, visit his website or follow him on Instagram @coachchrisbaran.See you next time!Erin

August 18, 202538 min

EPISODE 45 | Rachel Wilkerson | From Financial Survival to Freedom: A Journey of Resilience and Empowerment

Welcome back to MONEYO2! In this deeply personal episode, I’m joined by Rachel Wilkerson — our amazing partner coordinator at Qnity and a passionate advocate for financial wellness and literacy. Rachel’s journey is a testament to resilience: from navigating early motherhood and domestic violence to overcoming financial hardship and rebuilding her life with intentionality and courage.Rachel grew up in a family without financial education, faced the challenges of single motherhood, bankruptcy, and low credit scores, yet through determination and learning, she transformed her financial story. She’s also the founder of Rise, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering survivors through support, healing, and community connection.In this episode, Rachel opens up about:• Growing up without financial education and the impact on her family’s future• Navigating single motherhood, bankruptcy, and rebuilding credit• How teaching financial literacy to students changed her own money mindset• The power of starting small and staying consistent in your financial journey• Founding Rise — a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors with empowerment and healing• The deep connection between financial freedom, personal healing, and community impactRachel’s vulnerability and resilience remind us all that financial freedom is possible — no matter where you start. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by money or unsure how to break the cycle, this episode is for you. I’d love to hear what moved or inspired you in this conversation — DM me anytime @erinkuhnbhansali or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com. Your feedback means the world.Follow Rachel on Instagram @rachelwilkerson to stay connected and inspired.Thanks for listening — see you next time!-Erin

August 13, 202538 min

EPISODE 44 | SCHOOL FEATURE | How Phil Wood achieved his financial dreams

In this episode, I'm joined by Phil Wood—a powerhouse educator who turned a dream into reality through strategic goal-setting, relentless work ethic, and smart financial planning. Phil's story is one of transformation: from being homeless at 15 to living his dream life in Hawaii while supporting his family and in-laws. In this episode, Phil shares:How vision boards and written goals helped him achieve every major milestone—house, dream BMW, and Hawaii moveBuilding multiple income streams over 20+ years in beauty educationThe financial discipline and work ethic required to make dreams realityHow self-worth and financial success are deeply connectedPhil worked 16-18 hour days across three jobs, made strategic spending choices, and built his career from service desk to national educator. His disciplined approach ultimately allowed him to become the primary breadwinner supporting his husband and elderly in-laws in paradise. Phil proves that with clear goals, smart spending choices, and unwavering work ethic, you can design and fund the life of your dreams—even if you start with nothing.I'd love to hear what you took away from this episode—DM me anytime @erinkuhnbhansali or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com. To stay connected with Phil, follow him on Instagram @philipjames_pmfsThanks for listening—see you next time! Erin

August 5, 202525 min

Episode 43 | Brian Feroldi | Why the Stock Market Goes Up (and Why You Should Care)

Welcome back to MONEYO2!If the stock market feels like a confusing blur of charts, headlines, and buzzwords—this episode is for you. Today, I’m joined by Brian Feroldi, a financial educator, former contributor to The Motley Fool, and author of Why Does the Stock Market Go Up?—a book that breaks down investing.Brian believes that investing doesn’t have to be complicated. And in this conversation, he proves it. Whether you’re new to the market or simply want to better understand the terms you hear tossed around in the news (Dow? S&P 500? Bull market?), Brian shares what every long-term investor needs to know—and why understanding just a few simple principles can completely shift how you view money, risk, and building wealth.In this episode, Brian and I talk about:Why most business school grads still don’t understand the stock market (and how he learned the hard way)The most powerful advantages individual investors have over Wall StreetWhat makes the stock market go up—and what history tells us about its long-term trendThe difference between speculation and true investingHow patience, perspective, and simplicity can lead to more confident decisionsIf you’ve ever felt intimidated by investing, or you want a clearer picture of how to grow your wealth long-term—this is the episode to start with. Brian is here to demystify the market and remind us that you don’t need to be an expert—you just need to understand a few basics and stick with them.Thanks so much for tuning in. These conversations are a labor of love, and my hope is that they leave you feeling a little more empowered, curious, and clear. If something in this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear what clicked for you in this one—DM me @erinkuhnbhansali or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.comTo connect with Brian, visit www.brianferoldi.com, subscribe to his Long-Term Mindset newsletter, or follow him on YouTube and Twitter @BrianFeroldiSee you next time!Erin

July 14, 202555 min

Episode 42 | Jen Lyles | Addressing Financial Stress in Beauty School Students

Welcome back to Season 3 of MONEYO2! In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jen Lyles from Beauty School Marketing Group for a powerful conversation about a challenge that’s impacting so many of our beauty and wellness students: financial stress.A recent Pivot Point study revealed that financial worries are the leading cause of mental and social health challenges among students. Many students are so burdened by financial stress that it either stops them from starting their education or keeps them from finishing. That’s why robust financial literacy programs are now essential for beauty schools.Jen and I dive into the root causes of student financial instability and share actionable strategies for beauty school administrators. You’ll learn how to address these challenges with empathy while creating effective financial education tailored for beauty students.In this episode, we discuss:How financial stress affects student performance, mental health, and school completion ratesThe essential components of an impactful financial literacy program designed specifically for beauty studentsProven strategies to help students budget, manage debt, and access financial resourcesTools and partnerships that schools can leverage to provide ongoing financial supportUnconventional approaches, including flexible schedules and teaching additional income streams, to better support studentsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in beauty education who wants to support students’ financial wellbeing and success. I’d love to hear what stood out to you! DM me @erinkuhnbhansali or email erin.kuhn@qnityinc.com. Your feedback means the world.To learn more about Jen Lyles and Beauty School Marketing Group, visit BeautySchoolsMarketingGroup.Thanks for tuning in — see you next time!Erin

July 10, 202522 min

Episode 41 | Kate Bulger | Tackling Debt in a New Era of Financial Stress

If you or someone you know is carrying debt—or quietly stressed about it—this episode is for you. Today’s guest, Kate Bulger, joins us from Money Management International (MMI), one of the nation’s leading nonprofit credit counseling agencies. Kate has worked in this space for over 20 years, and she’s sounding the alarm on something we all need to pay attention to: the debt crisis is hitting younger generations—and hard.Kate shares data and stories that hit close to home. From a 9% month-over-month jump in debt counseling requests, to a new “normal” of $30,000 in average unsecured debt, she walks us through what’s happening behind the scenes of today’s economy. And she does it with heart, humility, and a deep commitment to helping people take control of their financial futures.In this episode, we talk about:The emotional and financial toll of unsecured debt (mainly credit cards).Why Gen Z and Millennials are now carrying more debt earlier than any other generation before them.How to reduce shame and seek support when debt feels overwhelming.What MMI does—and why nonprofit financial counseling can be a game-changer.The real story behind rising debt levels (especially in months that used to be “quiet”)Practical advice for anyone trying to break the cycle and get a fresh start.This isn’t just a financial episode, it’s a human one. And if you’re someone who works with clients, leads a team, or simply wants to better understand the stress people are quietly carrying—this one matters.📩 I’d love to hear what resonated with you—DM me on Instagram @erinkuhnbhansali or email me anytime at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.comTo learn more about Kate or get support, visit www.moneymanagement.org. MMI is there to help—without judgment.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time.Erin

June 5, 2025Episode 4243 min

Episode 40 | Ashlee Piper | Buying Less, Living More: What Happens When You Stop Shopping

Welcome back to MONEYO2!Today’s guest, Ashlee Piper, knows firsthand what it’s like to be caught in the cycle of spending and stress. Once a fast-paced political strategist with a love for fashion and wellness trends, Ashlee found herself constantly shopping—but feeling increasingly disconnected. So she made a radical decision: buy nothing new for a year. What started as a personal challenge became a lifestyle shift, a bestselling book, and a movement that’s reshaping how people think about money, identity, and joy.In this episode, Ashlee gets real about what happens when you pause the purchasing and start paying attention to what really matters. We talk about:Her journey from burnout to intentional livingWhy we shop to soothe, and what we’re actually looking forWhat “enough” looks like in a world that tells us we’re never quite thereThe hidden emotional and financial freedom that comes from consuming lessHow to try the No New Things challenge for yourself—without guilt or shameShe got out of $20K in consumer debt and saved $36K (without increasing her income!)Ashlee’s story is smart, funny, and refreshingly honest. If you’ve ever thought about simplifying your life, being more intentional with your money, or just wanted to feel a little less pressure to “keep up”—this episode is your permission slip.As always, I’d love to hear what you think! DM me on Instagram @erinkuhnbhansali and follow us @moneyo2pod or email me at erin.kuhn@qnityinc.comTo connect with Ashlee, check out nntbook.com or follow her on Instagram @ashleepiper.Thanks for listening—see you next time!

May 5, 202538 min

Episode 39 | Elizabeth Faye | Breaking Free from Money Trauma & Hustle Culture

Welcome back to MONEYO2! Today's episode features Elizabeth Faye, founder of The Vitality Project and Hair Love University, former hairdresser turned healer, trauma-informed life coach, and creator of the industry's first workplace wellness program. In an era of burnout and hustle culture, Elizabeth shares her powerful journey from hustling to the point of health collapse to finding a balanced approach to success and wealth. Her guiding philosophy? "Show me how easy it is" - an experiment that transformed her relationship with money, work, and self-worth. This episode covers essential insights including:The difference between using hustle as a tool versus letting it become a lifestyleHow childhood money trauma creates programming that affects our relationship with moneyUsing nervous system regulation and breathwork to create safety around moneyBreaking generational patterns of scarcity mindsetWhy "ease is a state, not a destination" in your wealth journeyThe power of asking different questions to get different resultsIn this episode, Elizabeth shares her personal story and offers practical guidance for creating success without sacrificing wellbeing - including a guided breathwork meditation to transform your money mindset.To connect with Elizabeth Faye, visit https://vitalityprojectondemand.com/ or follow her on Instagram @heyelizabethfaye. Watch her viral TED Talk "Hairdressers Change the World" and look for her upcoming book "Show Me How Easy It Is."Thanks for listening, see you next time! Erin