5 Pet Costs to Factor Into Your Budget I’ve had my furry friends for nearly 7 years now! Pets truly are a blessing, but I’ll be the first to admit that I failed to acc … Read More »

#114: 7 Reasons to Start Journaling and Prompts to Get You Started /*! elementor – v3.19.0 – 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} I started consistently journaling back in 2018. The benefits that have come over time through consistent journaling are truly amazing. I eventually was able to quit my corporate job and run City Girl Savings full-time. I was able to see the growth in my thought patterns over time. I’m able to look back on old journal entries and feel pride and gratitude. Because journaling has brought so many blessings into my life, I’m now an advocate of the practice. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 reasons to start journaling on a regular basis as well as a few journal prompts to get you started! Here’s a glance at this episode: [01:48] The more you journal, the more you learn about yourself. The more you learn about yourself, the more self-aware you become. [04:10] Raya recalls a time where journaling helped avoid a major fight with her partner. Had she not journaled and acted on her feelings, bad things could have happened. [09:50] Journaling can help keep your goals top of mind. This can result in you taking actions that help you reach the goal. [13:30] Raya shares a snippet from an old journal entry back in 2020 to showcase how memories can be invoked through journaling. [16:22] Need some help getting started? Raya shares 3 different journal prompts that can help you begin your new journaling routine. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 58 – My Daily Morning Routine for Boosting Productivity Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscrib … #114: 7 Reasons to Start Journaling and Prompts to Get You StartedRead More »

How to Reconnect with Your Inner Child Oh, to be a child again! Remember being able to eat McDonald’s and sweets without gaining weight? Remember playing with your f … Read More »

#113: How I Protect My Peace and Why It’s So Important /*! elementor – v3.19.0 – 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} As I’ve gotten older, I realize there’s nothing more important than my peace…and protecting it at all costs. I used to spend time with people who thrived on gossip and drama, until I realized how much of my personal energy that time cost me. Now, I limit my time and interaction with people, places and things that drain my energy. I also set firm boundaries on protecting my mental wellbeing, and while it’s not always easy, it does get better over time. In this episode, I’m sharing the different ways I’ve come to learn to protect my peace and how it’s made a huge difference in my life. If you’re struggling to set boundaries, preserve your energy or protect your peace, hopefully some of my strategies and experiences can help you! Here’s a glance at this episode: [02:34] Raya shares her experiences with specific people and the energy drain that took place because of being around those people. [06:00] Setting boundaries can lead to guilt. Raya shares how she checks herself when starting to feel guilty for protecting her peace. [11:31] Journaling has been a powerful practice to help set the tone for Raya’s day. She uses it to release feelings of stress, anxiety or excitement. [15:30] Raya spent a lot of time in nature when her mom was sick. This has now become a morning routine to promote serenity. [18:15] Leave other people’s problems and struggles at the door. Raya tries to avoid taking home the weight of other people’s problems. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Recommended Read – The Celestine Prophecy Listen to Episode 58 – My Daily Morning Routine for Boosting Productivity Recommended Read – Discerning the Voice of God Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter! Watch thi … #113: How I Protect My Peace and Why It’s So ImportantRead More »

5 Easy Ways to Boost Your Credit As someone who’s had an 800+ credit score for years now, I can say that boosting your credit score isn’t always smooth sai … Read More »

#112: How to Heal Your Past and Unlock Your Potential with Asia Hilario /*! elementor – v3.19.0 – 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} One thing I’ve learned over time is that ignoring your past traumatic experiences and running from the feelings gets you nowhere. Acknowledging your inner child and revisiting your past, as hard as it is, is a necessary step in loving yourself and living your best, happiest life. Self-Love Coach turned Business Mindset Coach Asia Hilario is joining us on the show today to help teach you how to heal from your past traumas and unlock your future potential. Asia and I go deep with our discussion on thought control, self-sabotage, self-awareness and so much more. If you’re ready to step into the woman you were always meant to be, you don’t want to miss this episode! Here’s a glance at this episode: [03:15] Asia created a blog talking about her journey to self-healing and it led to so many amazing accolades and opportunities. [14:23] Your reaction to how people treat you can say a lot about your own insecurities. Listen to your thoughts and watch your reactions. [27:21] Self-sabotage can happen in many ways. Asia explains how to keep an eye out for the behaviors that are self-sabotaging. [36:00] Operating from a place of scarcity means you have the opinion that there’s not enough to go around. [42:40] Asia learned that storytelling is her superpower. When she shares her stories, people are impacted in a way she never thought possible. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Asia on Instagram Asia’s Self-Sabotage Course Learn more about Asia Download the Free Money Mindset Worksheet Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings … #112: How to Heal Your Past and Unlock Your Potential with Asia HilarioRead More »

6 Ways to Promote Inner Peace Promoting inner peace is essential for maintaining overall well-being and managing the stresses of daily life. While there are … Read More »

5 Tricks to Help You Stay Organized at Work Staying organized at work is essential for maximizing productivity, reducing stress, and achieving success in your professional … Read More »

#111: Money Moves to Start Implementing Now The time is now to build the life of your dreams! We’re living in a time where women are making more, out-earning their partners, investing for the long-term and building true wealth. It’s a wonderful time to be a woman making money, but with the lack of financial education growing up, it’s up to us to bridge the knowledge gap. When it comes to budgeting and money management, certain activities are guaranteed to set you up for long-term success. In this episode, I’m sharing 6 money moves you can start implementing now to get the ball rolling on your financial success. Here’s a glance at this episode: [02:20] The first of the money moves to start implementing now is saving for retirement. This is one of the best ways to build long term wealth. [05:11] Before you start investing, you’ll want to have a few things in place – paying down high interest debt and saving for emergencies. [11:05] Money mindset is a critical part of financial success. Raya breaks down why you past is so important and shares a resource to help. [13:50] Commit to doing what it takes to reach your goals. Be okay with sacrifice, discipline and saying no…temporarily. [16:00] Be open with your friends, family, and partner about being on a budget. You may be surprised with the accountability you get. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 107 – Adding Investing to Your Money Goals with Marc Russell Listen to Episode 1 – Big City Spender to City Girl Saver Download the Free Money Mindset Worksheet Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter! Watch … #111: Money Moves to Start Implementing NowRead More »

6 Tips to Tackle Tax Filing Season Tax filing season…it comes around the same time every year, so how is it that you always get caught off guard?! College Raya was i … Read More »

#110: 5 Ways a Type A Personality Stays Organized “Hi, I’m Raya and I’m a recovering structure addict”. Like most Type A individuals, I thrive on structure, organization, and time-specific tasks. Unfortunately, my need for structure got so bad that I started dreading quality time with friends and family. Thankfully, I’ve found ways to stay organized that suit my personality, but those ways are no longer at the expense of anyone or anything! In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways a Type A personality (AKA Me) stays organized and sane. If you struggle with this, hopefully my tips and resources can help! Here’s a glance at this episode: [02:02] There was a point in time where dinner out with her besties felt like a chore to Raya. She knew things had to change. [05:26] One of the great things about Asana is that you can color-code your tasks to help categorize everything that needs to get done. [08:25] Not only does OneNote help Raya identify her tasks for the day, but it includes the goals she’s working on, so they’re always front and center. [13:05] Raya batches tasks like recording podcast episodes and writing blog articles, to help her manage her time more effectively. [17:57] Learning how to say “yes” to things that are non-work related has helped Raya utilize her time for things outside of just work and business. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Raya Recommends: Task Management Tool Asana Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter … #110: 5 Ways a Type A Personality Stays OrganizedRead More »

I Had a $100k Job…and Hated It Ok, I know what you may be thinking, “Is she crazy?” “Girl, give me that job, I’ll be happy” “You must not be struggling … Read More »

#109: The Major Signs You Need Help Managing Your Money Let’s be real. Finances are still a very personal topic. While we’ve made strides towards having open money conversations, we have a long way to go. Since financial literacy isn’t included in standard education curriculum, you can’t blame yourself for not being great with money. You likely learned a lot of your habits from your parents. And that may not be a good thing. In this episode, I’m sharing some major signs you need help managing your money. If any of these signs apply to your situation, acknowledge them, and take action. Ignoring the signs will only delay your progress. Here’s a glance at this episode: [01:48] With the rise of social media, we have inside scoop into how the wealthy (and un-wealthy) spend their dollars, causing feelings of inadequacy. [06:06] Even $25 a paycheck being saved can help you break free of living paycheck to paycheck. Small steps add up over time. [11:02] Did you know Raya creates budget plans? If you don’t have a budget, you need one! Raya shares how you can get started with one. [17:07] One of the biggest signs you need help managing your money is if you don’t have a budget. A budget is the number one tool for success with your finances. [22:50] When you invest in working with a coach or other professional, you have skin in the game. This is usually what helps you get the results. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Raya Recommends: The Richest Man in Babylon Let Raya create a budget plan for you! Listen to Episode 15 – My Debt Free Story and the Biggest Takeaways Listen to Episode 84 – Why You Need to Pay to Get Better with Money Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program Need help with your finances? Request a call with Raya! Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the C … #109: The Major Signs You Need Help Managing Your MoneyRead More »

7 Habits to Help Boost Your Productivity We live in a hustle culture, and while that can be a good thing, it can also lead to burnout and frustration. Me personally, I … Read More »

24 Things to Do for Your Money in 2024 Another year is here and that means another annual list of things you can do to improve your financial situation! Woop Woop! Yep, … Read More »

#108: 6 Next Level Habits I’m Adding to My Life Have you ever felt like you’re on the verge of breaking through to the next level? Almost as if you’ve mastered everything you can master at this point in your life and to move forward, you must grow in new and different ways? Well, I’m in that spot right now. I feel like I’m at the cusp of a new level and to enter it, I need to let go of things that no longer serve me and start new habits and routines that will foster my growth at the next level. So, after giving it a lot of thought, I’ve determined the 6 habits and routines I’m adding to my life to help me become my next-level self. In this episode, I’m sharing the 6 next-level habits I’m adding to my life to help me level up! Here’s a glance at this episode: [02:25] Raya shares an important realization – the habits that she plans to implement may only serve her for a point in time…and that’s okay. [05:41] While Raya read more books in 2023, she watched TV more than she read books. Can you relate? Listen as she shares why this won’t be the case in 2024. [10:18] Raya realized that how she dressed everyday had a huge impact on how she felt. Now, she vows to let go of the yoga pants and sweatshirts! [16:20] Having 2-3 dedicated call days every week will help Raya spend time focusing on her clients, as well as time focusing on growing the business. [20:30] Raya plans to not only track her goal progress (per usual), but will dedicate time to thinking about what the data is showing. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 105 – My Personal and Business Goals for 2024 Check out Sydney Cummings Houdyshell on YouTube! Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter! … #108: 6 Next Level Habits I’m Adding to My LifeRead More »

6 Budget Goals Every Woman Should Have This goes without saying, but I need to say it anyways: you need a budget. Every woman needs a budget. Hashtag budget goals! It … Read More »

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#107: Adding Investing to Your Money Goals with Marc Russell It’s 2024 and if you haven’t started investing, in any way, shape or form, then let’s make this year the year you add investing to your money goals! While there are a variety of ways to build wealth, I firmly believe that long-term investing is one of the best ways to do it. Whether it’s contributing to a retirement plan or leveraging a general investment account, consistent investing is a must. That’s why I’m so excited to talk with Marc Russell of BetterWallet today about how you can add investing to your money goals. Get ready to take your finances up a notch this year! Here’s a glance at this episode: [03:42] Marc shares his experience with joining the team at Vanguard. Marc shares why they were an advocate for him and his goals. [09:40] Marc breaks down the differences between a financial coach and a financial advisor and gives insight into when someone may be ready to work with a financial advisor. [17:57] Get an easy-to-understand overview of investing and why it’s a much better approach for your money than saving with a bank. [27:30] It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the investment options that are available. When you decide on what’s best for you, stick with those options and see them through. [38:05] Marc shares a few of his favorite investment and brokerage platforms and what people should be looking for when deciding on a brokerage company. [49:29] Marc is working to set up a scholarship fund to help people financially cover the costs of higher education. Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Marc on Instagram Get Marc’s Investing Guide Sign Up for Marc’s free investing class Check out Marc’s free investing class for your kids Check out the BetterWallet Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter! Wat … #107: Adding Investing to Your Money Goals with Marc RussellRead More »