385: My Realistic Monthly Budgeting Routine (Step-by-Step Breakdown)
Tired of complicated budgeting systems that never stick? On this podcast eisode, I’m sharing my exact monthly budgeting routine; from reviewing last month’s numbers to planning for irregular expenses and closing out the month with reflection. This is a realistic, flexible approach to budgeting that actually works. Whether you’re just getting started or want to refresh your process, these steps will help you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed. What you’ll learn: How I start with a financial reflection, not shame My method for planning income (even with variable pay!) Why I budget for my goals first before any expenses How I build a realistic, values-aligned spending plan The importance of planning for irregular expenses Why I track my budget weekly (not daily!) How I close out each month to stay consistent This budgeting routine is simple, sustainable, and designed to help you make real financial progress. No perfect templates. Just a system that works. ❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motivation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe ❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books ❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages ❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog ❤ Follow us on Instagram: @clevergirlfinance
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384: So Called “Normal” Money Habits That Are Sabotaging Your Goals (Fix These Fast!)
On this episode of the podcast, I’m breaking down 7 everyday financial habits that seem harmless—but are quietly draining your bank account, delaying your progress, and keeping you stuck in stress mode. From only saving what’s left over, to using credit cards like income, to ignoring your actual numbers, these habits might be the reason you’re not hitting your financial goals. No judgment, just real talk and practical fixes to turn things around. You'll Learn: Why paying yourself first is a game changer How minimum payments are costing you thousands What to do instead of emotional sale shopping Why lifestyle inflation keeps you stuck How to shift from credit card dependency The power of knowing your numbers Why you don’t need a lot of money to start investing 🎯 These are the mindset shifts and action steps that will help you build real wealth—starting now. ❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motivation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe ❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books ❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages ❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog ❤ Follow us on Instagram: @clevergirlfinance
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383: From Rock Bottom to $1B: Mindset, Leadership, and Intentional Money Moves
On this episode of the podcast, we’re joined by powerhouse entrepreneur and Fortune 500 sales veteran Mara Dorne to talk about going From Rock Bottom to $1B. Mara shares her incredible journey from financial struggle to building a billion-dollar sales career and becoming a self-made millionaire by 35. She opens up about the mindset shifts, intentional money moves, and fearless leadership strategies that helped her rise in a male-dominated industry. As the founder of the BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow) podcast and leader of a nationwide team of over 1,500 health insurance agents, Mara is on a mission to empower women to lead boldly, build wealth with purpose, and redefine what success looks like, on their own terms. What Mara Discussed on the Podcast: Her personal story, career background, and the defining moments that shaped her journey. How hitting rock bottom sparked the transformation that led to $1B+ in sales. The financial mindset shifts that were key to building lasting wealth. Lessons learned from leading large teams as a woman in a male-dominated industry. The impact of the 2008 financial crisis on her approach to money, risk, and resilience. Encouragement for women looking to lead with confidence despite fear, finances, or imposter syndrome. How she cultivates high-performing teams and integrates financial education into leadership. What intentional money management looks like in both her personal and professional life. How to turn purpose into profitable and sustainable business ventures. AND SO MUCH MORE How to Keep Up With Mara: Follow on Instagram: @maradorne Listen and follow the podcast: @bilfpod ❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motivation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe ❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books ❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages ❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog ❤ Follow us on Instagram: @clevergirlfinance
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34:33
Reflections On Losing My Dad
In this episode, I open up about losing my dad and how I’m navigating grief, reflection, and healing. He lived a long, full life - married to my mom for 55 years, and in his final days, he told us his time was near and even called to say goodbye. While the pain of loss is real, I find peace in the chance I had to say goodbye and in the words my dad told me often: “Bola, be happy! Nothing is that serious.” Right now, I’m giving myself grace, taking breaks as needed, and choosing to honor his legacy by holding onto joy. I hope this episode reminds anyone going through loss that it’s okay to grieve in your own way and to take things one day at a time. ❤️
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382: How I Stay Disciplined With Money (Without Being Perfect or Deprived!)
Struggling to stay consistent with your money? You’re not alone—and you don’t need to be perfect to build wealth. I’m sharing the real self-discipline tips that help me stay on track with my finances—without guilt, burnout, or unrealistic expectations. These habits have helped me grow my savings, stay focused, and still enjoy my life. If you’re ready to finally follow through on your money goals, this video is your starting point. Here’s what you’ll learn on this episode: The importance of knowing your why and how it fuels financial consistency Why automation is the ultimate self-discipline tool How to set realistic spending rules that actually work for your lifestyle The power of tracking your progress weekly to stay motivated How to build a budget that’s honest—not aspirational Easy ways to remove temptation before it derails your goals Why routines—not willpower—create lasting financial change 💡 This isn’t about being strict or saying no to fun—it’s about creating systems and habits that help you protect your money and your peace. ✨ ACTION STEP: Pick one self-discipline strategy from this video and start applying it today. Small, consistent actions are what create real results over time. 📚 Ready to take the next step? Check out the Clever Girl Finance My Wealth Plan Workbook to map out your personalized strategy: https://clevergirlfinance.com/books ❤ Subscribe to the Clever Girl Finance newsletter for weekly motiviation: clevergirlfinance.com/subscribe ❤ Get the best-selling Clever Girl Finance Books: clevergirlfinance.com/books ❤ Get access to 30+ free courses, worksheets, savings challenges, and our favorite banking resources: clevergirlfinance.com/course-packages ❤ Read the Clever Girl Finance Blog: clevergirlfinance.com/blog ❤ Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/clevergirlfinance
About The Clever Girls Know Podcast With Bola Sokunbi
The Clever Girls Know Podcast is brought to you by Clever Girl Finance, one of the largest personal finance media/education platforms for women in the U.S. that empowers women to ditch debt, save money and build real wealth in order to live life on their own terms!
Hosted by founder and CEO of Clever Girl Finance, Bola Sokunbi, the podcast shares open and honest conversations with real women at different stages of their financial and life journeys to inspire and motivate other women on their own journeys too!
Get the Clever Girl Finance Roadmap today! It's completely free! Plus get our free budgeting & debt prioritization worksheets too: https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/financial-roadmap/
Listen to The Clever Girls Know Podcast With Bola Sokunbi, The Level Up Podcast w/ Paul Alex and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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