Queer Money®: How Gay People Do Money

Are Gay GenXers Too Broke to Retire? Are gay Gen Xers destined for a financially fabulous retirement 💸✨, or are we teetering on the edge of a financial faceplant? On this episode of Queer Money, we spill the ☕️ on whether our generation is doomed to work ‘til we drop or if there’s still time to secure that dream retirement—one with bottomless brunches 🥂 instead of bottomless debt. 😵‍💳 With inflation throwing tantrums 📈, the cost of living strutting up like it’s on a runway, and traditional retirement benefits ghosting us like a bad Tinder date, it’s no wonder nearly 50% of Gen Xers are at risk of retiring broke. 😨 And let’s be real—LGBTQ+ folks often juggle even heavier financial baggage, from higher debt to fewer assets, making retirement planning feel more like an Olympic sport. 🏆 But don’t clutch your pearls just yet! 📿 We’re here to dish out the strategies, tips, and hard truths you need to turn your financial future from meh to magnifique. 💅💖 Tune in, take notes 📝, and let’s get serious about securing that rich, restful retirement we all deserve! 🏝️💃💵 Takeaways: literally everythinglove Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Support the Queer Money podcast We love bringing you new content every week. Help us keep doing that. Click the link below to support our mission of financial empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community. Support the Queer Money podcast - Buy us some coffee Get the FREE Happy Gay Retirement Calculator Are you on the path to a tragic, basic, happy or fabulous retirement? Find out where and begin your journey to a better retirement with our Happy Gay Retirement Calculator. Happy Gay Retirement Calculator

Is the LGBTQ+ community improving financially? Good news, fam! The LGBTQ+ community is stepping up its financial game, and we’ve got the receipts. 📊 According to the Motley Fool Debt Free Guys LGBTQ Money Study and Prudential’s 2018 Study, more of us are finally embracing basic banking tools—checking accounts, savings accounts, and the financial stability they bring. Why does this matter? Because keeping your cash in a shoebox under the bed is so last century. 🏦 By using these essential financial products, we’re not just catching up to the general population—we’re saving money, avoiding fees, and building real financial security. This shift isn’t just a cute trend; it’s a power move. 💪🏽 So if you’re still playing hide-and-seek with your money, now’s the time to get that banking game on point. Let’s keep pushing forward and making our wallets as fabulous as we are! 🌈💰 Topics Covered: Takeaways: Links referenced in this episode: motleyfool.comprudential.com Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn

How queer teens can prepare for a life of independence Hey, fabulous queer fam! In this episode, we’re diving into money talk with a twist—designed especially for queer teens and young adults. We’re dishing out practical, fun financial tips that honor your unique journey. Along the way, we share our own stories about overcoming self-doubt and smashing those limiting beliefs about worth and financial smarts. Get ready to learn five must-know money moves—from launching a Roth IRA, sidestepping credit card traps, to living smart on your dime—that will empower you to own your future with confidence and flair. Let’s slay the financial game together and build a future as brilliant as you are! Show Notes: Hey there, beautiful people! In this chat, we're getting real about the money struggles many queer teens face, especially when it comes to financial independence. John and David open up about their own journeys, sharing how societal and family pressures can mess with your confidence and financial mojo. They highlight how growing up in restrictive environments can sometimes lead to doubting your own worth and money potential. But here's the kicker: we're flipping the script! We’re dropping some real-deal advice to help you kick those limiting beliefs to the curb. Learn how to build your savings—think cool moves like starting a Roth IRA—and dodge the pitfalls of credit card debt. It's all about laying down a strong financial foundation to rock adulting with pride, confidence, and a splash of glitter. Let’s empower our queer community to thrive financially and emotionally, together! Takeaways: Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn

Are You Stuck in the Debt Depression Spiral? Do you find yourself swiping your credit card to cure a bad day, only to wake up with a financial hangover and a side of regret? Welcome to the debt depression spiral, where retail therapy turns into retail tragedy. But don’t worry, bestie—we’re here to throw you a fabulous financial lifeline. In this episode, we break down five game-changing strategies to help you snap out of this vicious cycle and reclaim your coins (and your sanity). From no-spend weekends that don’t feel like punishment to ditching social media FOMO, we’ve got the tea on how to stop stress-spending and start thriving. Let’s recognize the spiral, call it out for the messy queen it is, and get the F out—for good! Show Notes What’s gayer than a brunch mimosa and messier than a Real Housewives reunion? The debt depression spiral. It’s that toxic little loop where you spend money to feel better, then feel worse because you spent money. Rinse, repeat, regret. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to stay stuck in this budgetary Bermuda Triangle! We’re serving up five life-saving strategies to break free: ✨ No-Spend Weekend, But Make It Fun – Step away from the checkout cart and rediscover joy without the price tag. 🍽️ Host a Queer Potluck – Because cooking together is cheaper (and way gayer) than sad solo takeout. 💡 Gratitude Jar, But Make It Fierce – Shift your mindset from “I need more” to “I have plenty.” 📵 Social Media Detox – Stop doom-scrolling and comparing your life to an influencer’s highlight reel. 🎯 Focus on Long-Term Fulfillment – Invest in things that actually make you happy, not just what looks cute in a shopping bag. By embracing these tips, you’ll finally be able to stop letting your wallet suffer for the sake of a quick dopamine hit. Tune in, take notes, and let’s break the cycle together! 💸✨ Topics Covered: 00:01 - The Cycle of Emotional Spending Fabulous Takeaways from This Episode 💸 The Debt Depression Spiral is a Drama Queen – It starts with emotional spending (hello, “I deserve this!” purchases) and ends with financial anxiety and regret. Not the vibe. 🛑 No-Spend Weekend = Financial Reset – Give your wallet a mini vacation and break the cycle. Bonus: You’ll finally use that fancy candle you bought three impulse purchases ago. 🎯 Long-Term Happiness > Instant Gratification – That $200 designer candle? Cute, but does it spark lifelong joy? Let’s start spending on things that actually last. 🙏 Gratitude is the Ultimate Glow-Up – Focus on what you have, not what’s missing. A daily gratitude practice = less money stress and more inner peace. 🍽️ Potlucks = More Fun, Less Funds – Why drop $50 on brunch when you and your friends can throw a fabulous, budget-friendly dinner party? Bring a dish, bring the gossip, and keep your coins. 📵 Social Media Detox for Your Sanity – Step away from the influencer highlight reel and stop letting curated perfection convince you to spend money you don’t have. Your life is already fab! ✨ TL;DR: Your money should work for you, not just cover up bad moods. Let’s break...

Is money really different for LGBTQ+ folks? Money is distinctly different for LGBTQ individuals due to a multitude of systemic factors that influence their financial experiences and outcomes. In this episode, we elucidate seven critical ways in which the financial landscape diverges for members of the LGBTQ community compared to their heterosexual counterparts. These disparities encompass aspects such as legacy beliefs, wage gaps, and the lack of representation within financial institutions, which collectively contribute to a unique set of challenges. As we delve into this discourse, we aim to provide our listeners with not only an understanding of these differences but also actionable solutions to navigate and mitigate the financial obstacles faced by LGBTQ individuals. Ultimately, our objective is to empower our audience with knowledge that fosters financial independence and well-being. Show notes: In this episode, John and David embark on a critical exploration of the nuanced financial realities encountered by LGBTQ individuals, contrasting these experiences with those of the general population. They introduce the concept that, while a substantial portion of financial transactions may appear homogeneous, approximately 20% of financial experiences diverge markedly based on identity factors such as gender, race, and sexual orientation. The discussion is anchored by seven key insights that underscore the distinctive challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals, including the impact of legacy beliefs—internalized messages from a heteronormative society that shape financial self-perception and decision-making. The conversation is further enriched by statistical evidence illustrating wage disparities, employment challenges, and the pervasive lack of representation within financial institutions. John and David advocate for a proactive approach to financial management, proposing actionable strategies aimed at mitigating these disparities and fostering economic empowerment within the community. Ultimately, the episode serves as a clarion call for greater awareness and advocacy surrounding LGBTQ financial issues, encouraging listeners to leverage their unique experiences as a source of strength. Topics Covered: Takeaways:

How can LGBTQ+ folks get financially organized? The intricate tapestry of financial organization is unraveled in this episode, as we delve into the essential strategies that can significantly impact the financial lives of LGBTQ individuals. The conversation is anchored around five indispensable recommendations designed to foster financial security and promote a sense of agency within the community. We begin by emphasizing the critical need for an emergency savings account, advocating for a more robust financial cushion than traditional advice suggests. Given the systemic challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals—including discrimination in housing and employment—our proposal of nine to twelve months of savings is not merely prudent; it is imperative for financial resilience. Continuing our discourse, we introduce the concept of a happiness budget. This innovative approach encourages individuals to assess their spending habits critically, redirecting financial resources towards experiences and purchases that yield genuine happiness and fulfillment, rather than transient pleasures. This discussion serves to challenge conventional notions of budgeting by advocating for intentionality over mere restriction. We further investigate the alarming statistic that a significant portion of the LGBTQ community lacks access to basic banking services, underscoring the urgency of becoming financially literate and engaged with available banking resources. As we transition into the realm of retirement planning, we confront the disheartening reality that a vast majority of LGBTQ individuals are not participating in employer-sponsored retirement plans. This oversight poses a considerable risk to long-term financial health and necessitates immediate attention. Finally, we explore the multifaceted nature of insurance, emphasizing its role as a safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. By addressing these five pivotal areas, we aspire to empower our listeners to take actionable steps towards financial organization, ultimately leading to a more secure and fulfilling life. Takeaways: Topics Covered: Chapters: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn

Is your financial future fabulous or basic? Your daily financial habits are the unsung heroes of your money story—they shape everything from your short-term wins to your long-term dreams (hello, cozy retirement!). In this episode of Queer Money®, we’re diving into the magic of a solid daily financial plan that syncs with your bigger money goals. 💸✨ We're spilling all the tea on: 💡 Setting a daily budget that works for you 💡 Living that cash-only life like a boss 💡 Using fintech tools to keep your coins in check But it’s not just about the mechanics. This episode is all about how those small, consistent moves—like mindful spending—build the foundation for financial independence and a fabulous future. Plus, we’ll dish on why continuous financial education is a game-changer and how to actually enjoy managing your money. Spoiler alert: financial freedom can be fun. 🥂 Tune in and learn how to make your money habits work harder than Beyoncé in a stadium show! Show Notes: The Queer Money podcast brings an engaging discussion on the importance of daily financial habits and their impact on long-term financial success. Drawing from the Tanzanian proverb, "little by little, a little becomes a lot," the hosts emphasize that each small financial decision made today contributes significantly to future financial stability. This episode serves as the third installment in a financial planning series, building on previous discussions about short-term and long-term planning. With relatable examples, the hosts illustrate how seemingly minor expenditures like daily coffee runs or frequent dining out can accumulate and hinder retirement goals if not managed wisely. Listeners are guided through five actionable steps to improve their daily financial routines. These steps include setting a daily budget, living on cash, utilizing fintech tools to track spending and investments, committing to daily financial learning, and most importantly, having fun throughout the process. The discussion encourages a conscious approach to spending, urging listeners to recognize the long-term effects of their daily financial choices. Additionally, the episode fosters a sense of community among LGBTQ individuals by promoting financial literacy and independence, ultimately aiming to empower listeners to achieve their financial aspirations with confidence and ease. Topics Covered: Takeaways: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTube

Does your short-term financial plan work? Does it align with your long-term goals? Creating a short-term financial plan that aligns with your long-term goals is essential for achieving financial independence and well-being. In this episode, we share five actionable steps to help you establish one to three short-term money goals that will support your broader financial aspirations. By focusing on improving cash flow, growing your net worth, and strategically planning your social life, you can ensure that your day-to-day spending aligns with your long-term objectives. We also emphasize the importance of selecting goals that are not only achievable but also complement your larger financial vision. Join us as we dive into practical strategies that will set you on the path to financial success while still enjoying life along the way. Takeaways: Topics Covered Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn

How to Achieve Your Long-term Goals Achieving long-term financial goals can be challenging due to a phenomenon known as delayed reward discounting, where individuals struggle to prioritize future gains over immediate gratification. This podcast episode delves into the importance of setting clear, quantifiable Queer Money goals that resonate personally, as well as understanding the underlying motivation behind these goals. The hosts discuss the significance of taking action by establishing dedicated accounts for each goal and automating savings to streamline the process. By sharing financial aspirations with friends and family, especially within the LGBTQ community, individuals can create accountability and inspire one another. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to focus on both the practical steps of financial planning and the psychological aspects that can lead to sustained success. The psychological phenomenon of delayed reward discounting often impedes our ability to achieve long-term goals, leading many to set the same New Year’s resolutions year after year without progress. This episode addresses this issue head-on, inviting listeners to explore the intricate relationship between our aspirations and the actions—or inactions—that follow. The hosts introduce the concept of 'Queer Money Goals,' a framework designed to help individuals articulate their financial objectives in a way that is not only measurable but also exciting and relevant to their lives. This framework encourages the identification of significant long-term goals, or 'rocks,' while also acknowledging the importance of 'pebbles' (medium-term goals) and 'sand' (short-term desires) in the overall financial landscape. Show Notes A captivating metaphor of a jar filled with rocks, pebbles, sand, and water is utilized throughout the discussion to illustrate how prioritizing major goals can create a solid foundation for achieving smaller, immediate aims. The hosts stress the necessity of understanding one's 'why' behind each goal, which serves as a key motivator during challenging times. Furthermore, they advocate for automation in financial planning, suggesting that setting up direct deposits and automated savings can streamline the process and eliminate the temptation to divert funds from important goals. This not only simplifies budgeting but also contributes to building a healthier financial future. The episode culminates in a call to action for listeners to socialize their goals, particularly within the LGBTQ community, to foster accountability and inspiration. By sharing financial aspirations with friends and family, individuals can create a supportive network that encourages progress and celebrates milestones. The hosts conclude by outlining five essential steps for effective long-term financial planning, leaving listeners with a clear roadmap to navigate their financial journeys. This episode serves as an empowering guide for anyone looking to redefine their financial future by embracing both the challenges and triumphs of goal-setting. Takeaways: Chapters:

Do you really love your gay life? I mean really? Many queer folks, especially queer men express this feeling to us. They've been struggling all their lives to feel accepted, feel whole and feel like they're really happy. So, this week, we share some tips on what it takes to build the kind of gay life you love. Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Should we quit the LGBTQ+ community? In episode 572 of the Queer Money Podcast, hosts David and John discuss the potential future of the podcast after learning their primary sponsor will not renew sponsorship for 2025. They share the impact of this news on their revenue and reflect on the journey of the podcast since its inception, highlighting milestones and significant contributions to the LGBTQ community. The hosts request feedback from listeners to help determine whether to continue the podcast and in what new directions it might go. Special gratitude is extended to Capital One and other sponsors for their support over the years. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their thoughts via social media or email. Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Medicare is a confusing soup of letters, from Medicare part A to part D. What are they and what is the difference? Many of us will rely on Medicare as we age. So, what are the various parts of Medicare, and what do they cover? Let’s find out on this Queer Money. Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn

Money can't buy happiness, but it can buy something pretty close to it. In this episode of the Queer Money Podcast, hosts David and John discuss how money contributes to happiness by providing five key freedoms: financial freedom, location freedom, time freedom, relationship freedom, and 'you' freedom. The episode explains how each freedom significantly impacts the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, from reducing financial stress to enabling a true expression of self. They emphasize that while money can't buy happiness directly, it offers these freedoms, which are critical to achieving long-term happiness and well-being. Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Does retirement seem like a million years away? Want to retire earlier? On this Queer Money we tap into the desire to retire earlier or more confidently. Check out these seven tools to help you retire earlier and more fabulously than you ever dreamed. Follow us: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Do you want to invest in real estate but have no extra cash? How about investing with the money you have in your retirement accounts? On this episode of Queer Money, the hosts discuss strategies for increasing retirement income with Christopher Price, managing partner at Boost Capital Group, and Founder/CEO of Red Fox Multifamily. Christopher shares his approach to investing in hands-off, revenue-generating real estate to diversify retirement portfolios. Chris explains the benefits of self-directed IRAs, emphasizing the potential for tax savings and passive income through real estate syndications. They explore various investment strategies, the process of setting up these accounts, and the importance of due diligence in selecting reliable investment opportunities. Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

How does being married affect my retirement, especially in light of the Supreme Court's possible challenges to marriage equality? On this Queer Money®, we discuss marriage equality and tackle the ever-so-romantic question: Should you marry your BFF as part of your retirement plan? Spoiler alert—it might be worth the paperwork. Follow us: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Are you tired of fighting about money with your spouse? How can you get on the same page? On this episode of Queer Money® podcast, hosts John and David explore a frequently asked question from members of the audience: “How can couples get on the same page about money?” This episode features Adam Kol, the couple's money coach who discusses effective strategies for financial planning and communication between partners. Adam emphasizes starting conversations about general money attitudes rather than specific numbers initially, understanding each other's financial backgrounds, and building trust over time. He also provides practical tips on setting financial goals, managing differences, and fostering a team-like approach toward financial planning. The discussion highlights the importance of emotional and financial intimacy and offers actionable steps for couples to align their financial priorities. Topics Covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Want to retire outside the United States in 2025? You probably won't and here are the 5 biggest reasons holding you back from doing it. BTW, they're not all money-related. Follow us: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Life changes aren't easy and one of the biggest, transitioning from work to retirement can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. How can you be more prepared? On this episode of the Queer Money® Podcast, hosts John and David dive into the often daunting topic of retirement planning with retirement planner Suzanne Campi. Suzanne shares insights on alleviating retirement anxieties by envisioning a desired lifestyle. She discusses her unique retirement wheel, which helps clients consider essential life aspects beyond finances, such as health, relationships, purpose, and legacy. Highlighting the importance of being proactive, nurturing community ties, and having a flexible retirement plan, the episode emphasizes that retirement planning should encompass more than just financial stability. Topics covered: Let's connect: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

Confession time! We made a big mistake on a previous episode and we're here to fix that mistake today. What is an RMD or Required Minimum Distribution? Today we clarify the mistake we made regarding when and how RMDs must be taken in retirement. Follow us: Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeQueer Money on TiktokConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly Newsletter Subscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more. Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter