So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

Introducing Farnoosh's latest offering in the podcast universe: The Montclair Pod, a hyper local podcast centered on the news, culture and issues within Montclair, New Jersey. In this episode, Farnoosh and co-hosts explore the local implications of President Donald Trump’s second term. With Montclair overwhelmingly voting for Kamala Harris, we examine the town’s political identity and how it contrasts with broader trends, including New Jersey’s rightward shift in the 2024 election.The episode begins with voices from the community with a visit to Tierney’s Tavern on Inauguration Day. The hosts discuss the dynamics of political affiliation in a predominantly liberal town, including insights from Michael D. Byrne, Chairman of the Montclair Republican County Committee. Byrne sheds light on the challenges faced by local Republicans and the aspects of Trump’s leadership that resonate with his supporters.The show also explores the ripple effects of Trump's policy proposals from immigration enforcement to the possible dismantling of the Department of Education. Guests, include Dr. Jackie Vimo, an Assistant Professor of Political Science and Law and Montclair State University and Montclair Board of Education member Jada Roman.Finally, the episode spotlights Gabriela Tutalo, owner of the boutique Solano. She shares her concerns about tariffs on imported goods, offering a glimpse into the resilience and creativity of small business owners adapting to economic challenges.**Subscribe, leave a review, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram. Email us at Hello@MontclairPod.com**

Georgia Lee Hussey, Certified Financial Planner and founder of Modernist Financial, joins the program. Learn how to navigate the stock market when analysts predict slower growth over the next 10 years, how to choose the right 529 plan for your child’s education, and a new way to think about the economic value of stay-at-home parenting. Join Farnoosh's free info session for Book to BrandCheck out her new hyperlocal podcast The Montclair PodJoin the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh’s free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.

As we kick off 2025, a year already marked by uncertainty with a new presidential term underway, many of us are feeling a mix of anxiety and hesitation about our financial futures. From proposed tax changes to shifts in education and immigration policies, the ripple effects on our wallets are undeniable.To help us navigate this emotional terrain, we welcome back financial therapist Aja Evans. Aja's new book, Feel Good Finance, is the guide we all need right now, offering practical strategies for untangling our money emotions and building a healthier relationship with our finances. In today’s episode, Aja will help us:Understand how our early experiences shape our financial habits and anxieties.Learn how to address money conflicts in relationships with grace and communication.Avoid rash financial decisions in moments of heightened emotion or uncertainty.Set boundaries around social pressures and financial FOMO—whether from friends or social media.Create practical, personalized systems for organizing and managing money that actually work for you.

This episode originally aired on November 17, 2024.As we enter a second Trump administration, there’s growing concern over the future of climate policies. With environmental protection on the chopping block, it’s never been more critical for individuals to take action where they can—through their spending, saving, and investing choices. Today’s conversation with financial author Kara Perez couldn’t come at a better time. Kara is the founder of Bravely Go and the author of her debut book, Green Money, where she offers a roadmap for how we can use our money to create meaningful change, even in the face of policy setbacks.Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh’s free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.

In this episode of So Money, Farnoosh answers a variety of listener questions including how to manage finances during a job transition and prioritize severance pay, Should you ever pause 401(k) contributions? Also: The best time to execute stock options and how to qualify for a mortgage as an entrepreneur. Sign up for Farnoosh’s free Investing BlueprintFollow on InstagramJoin the So Money Members ClubRegister for Book to BrandLeave a review on Apple PodcastsOrder Farnoosh’s new book, A Healthy State of Panic

Today’s episode is for anyone who’s seriously considered packing their bags and leaving the United States. Whether it's for a better quality of life, a slower pace, or political reasons, moving abroad is a dream for many, but it’s also a complex journey.Joining us is Stacy Ennis, bestselling author, writing coach, and expat living in Portugal. Stacy has lived in four countries outside the U.S., and she’s become an unofficial expert on relocating abroad sustainably, not impulsively.In our conversation, we’ll dive into the practical, financial, and emotional realities of moving abroad. What are the biggest challenges? How do you ensure you're making this move for the right reasons? And what misconceptions do Americans often have about living in another country? If you’ve ever dreamed of starting over in a beachside town or exploring a new culture, Stacy’s insights are invaluable.Sign up for Farnoosh’s free Investing BlueprintFollow on InstagramJoin the So Money Members ClubLeave a review on Apple PodcastsOrder Farnoosh’s new book, A Healthy State of Panic

We explore the power of career pauses with Neha Ruch, founder of Mother Untitled and author of The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids and Come Back Stronger Than Ever. Neha is on a mission to rebrand the title “stay-at-home mom” and shift the narrative around career breaks from one of sacrifice to one of empowerment.We dive into how parents can intentionally plan for a career pause, create financial security, and use this time to grow both personally and professionally. Neha offers practical strategies for navigating societal perceptions, fostering meaningful connections, and eventually returning to work with confidence.Sign up for Farnoosh’s free Investing BlueprintFollow on InstagramJoin the So Money Members ClubLeave a review on Apple PodcastsOrder Farnoosh’s new book, A Healthy State of Panic

Farnoosh celebrates the podcast's 10th anniversary and shares her personal journey from a hectic 2024, emphasizing a more intentional approach to 2025. Farnoosh answers listener questions on maintaining good credit, the impact of paying off car loans early, the pros and cons of canceling a department store credit card, and the cost of investment management fees. She also discusses helpful resources for those affected by California wildfires including:The Red Cross California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund World Central Kitchen Direct Relief United Way of Greater Los Angeles Sign up for Farnoosh’s free Investing BlueprintFollow on InstagramJoin the So Money Members ClubLeave a review on Apple PodcastsOrder Farnoosh’s new book, A Healthy State of Panic

Known for his no-nonsense approach to money and his former role as a Ramsey Solutions personality, guest Anthony O'Neal has helped millions take control of their finances. He has written several books, including his latest, Take Your Seat at the Table, where he empowers readers to create a vision for their lives and build wealth on their terms.In this episode, Anthony shares his remarkable journey from being a 19-year-old drowning in $35,000 of debt to becoming debt-free and building a seven-figure business. He opens up about his time working with Dave Ramsey, how it influenced his financial philosophy, and why he eventually decided to strike out on his own to bring financial education to underserved communities.You’ll learn:The money mistakes Anthony made at 19 and how he turned his life around.The importance of avoiding consumer debt and focusing on building assets.How faith and purpose are pivotal in Anthony’s financial teachings.Why creating a clear vision for your life is the first step to achieving financial freedom.Practical steps for eliminating debt, building generational wealth, and owning your financial life.Sign up for Farnoosh’s free Investing BlueprintFollow on InstagramJoin the So Money Members ClubLeave a review on Apple PodcastsOrder Farnoosh’s new book, A Healthy State of Panic