Our guest this week is the incredible Jen Pestikas, a financial services executive, leadership coach for women and host of the podcast Brave Women at Work. We had the pleasure of meeting Jen through social media and we’re so glad that we did. She joins us today to discuss negotiating your worth in the workplace and why this is such an essential skill for women to harness.
In our conversation, Jen shares her personal journey and highlights the societal factors that often deter women from negotiating their worth. We’ll hear some success stories of her coaching sessions and learn practical strategies to strengthen the negotiation muscle, set empowering baselines, and confidently navigate conversations about compensation, promotions, and more. Whether you’re entering a new job or seeking a promotion, this episode equips you with script tips and insights to tackle these conversations head-on.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- Why do many women find negotiation challenging?
- The impact of not negotiating on the gender pay gap
- Strengthening the negotiation muscle + some of Jen’s client success stories
- Defining your baseline, understanding your worth, and confidently navigating financial conversations
- Beyond salary, what other aspects should women consider when negotiating in the workplace?
Learn a little more about Jen:
Jen Pestikas knows first-hand what it is like to start from the bottom and work her way to the top in her career. Jen started as a bank teller in the financial services industry and over the last 20 years, she moved up the ladder to be the Senior Vice President of Business Development for a Chicago land banking institution. Jen understands what soft and hard skills are needed to make significant leaps in your career, including mindset work, asking for what you want, interviewing skills, negotiation skills, presentation skills and more.
Jen is now leveraging her experience to help her clients clarify what they want to do, identify obstacles, and take bold and brave action to achieve their goals without sacrificing their health and happiness.
Episode Links:
Where you can find Jen:
https://bravewomenatwork.com/
Your Burnout Proof Career Plan
https://bravewomenatwork.com/burnout-proof-career-plan-workshop/
Brave Women at Work Podcast
https://bravewomenatwork.com/blog/
75 Things You Can Negotiate Article
https://worthmorestrategies.com/our-1-most-popular-post-75-things-you-can-negotiate/
Jen on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferpestikas/
Today we are honored to sit down with Candy Wolff, CEO and President of “Irreplaceably You,” mother, widow, and author of the upcoming book, Lost and Found in Mexico: A Widow’s Road to Recovery. In our conversation, she shares the tragic story of losing her husband while on vacation in Mexico, and the financial difficulties and decisions that followed.
From unexpected medical bills and funeral expenses to dealing with life insurance policies, Candy’s story highlights the importance of having open financial conversations with your partner and being prepared for the unexpected. Discover the critical steps she wishes she had taken before her husband’s passing, and why having the right resources, like Purse Strings’ Family Emergency Guide, can make all the difference in times of hardship.
Join us for a powerful conversation about protecting your financial future.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- How Candy lost her husband unexpectedly on a vacation in Mexico
- Being financially prepared for unexpected life events, such as the loss of a spouse
- Having open and honest communication about finances within a relationship
- The potential risks of identity theft and fraudulent activities when financial accounts remain unprotected after a loved one’s passing
- How resources, like the Family Emergency Guide from Purse Strings, can help women prepare for unexpected financial challenges
Learn a little more about Candy:
Candy Wolff is a multi-talented professional, excelling in roles spanning marketing, sales, event management, tradeshow coordination, writing, and public speaking. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Communications from Montana State University Billings, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to lead as the CEO/President of “Irreplaceably You.”
Mission-Driven Professional: Candy lives by the philosophy that every day presents a choice: to pick one’s attitude and make the right choice. This personal mission guides her approach to work and life, infusing positivity, empathy, and excellence into everything she does.
A Loving Mother: Candy is not only a dynamic professional but also a devoted mother to three boys. Her nurturing spirit and dedication to her family serve as a foundation for her personal and professional success.
A Woman of Faith: Candy’s Christian faith is a cornerstone of her life, guiding her values and actions in all aspects of her journey.
Passions Beyond Work: Outside of her professional life, Candy is an avid enthusiast of working out, drawn to the invigorating power of exercise. She’s equally passionate about the ocean, sun, and sand, finding solace and inspiration by the seaside.
Author and Innovator: Candy is set to debut her literary work, “Lost and Found in Mexico,” while also gearing up for the launch of “Irreplaceably You.”
Episode Links:
Get in touch with Candy:
candywolff3@gmail.com
952-687-7968
https://www.linkedin.com/in/candywolff/
Download Purse String’s Family Emergency Binder:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1920161/13811152
Did you know that 10,000 people are turning 65 in the U.S. every day and will continue to for the next 7 years? It’s true. And that means that caregiving is something that will impact the lives of many women. Our guest today is Jeannie Dougherty, a money expert, mental fitness guide, and former caregiver. She’s here to help you better understand how caregiving can affect your financial health and what proactive steps you can take to safeguard your financial future while caring for aging parents.
Listen in as Jeannie shares her personal experiences in caring for both her father and mother as they faced Alzheimer’s. She highlights the challenges and emotional rollercoaster that comes with becoming the primary caregiver, as well as the importance of open communication among family members and proper legal and financial preparations.
With a deep understanding of aging issues, Jeannie offers valuable advice on navigating the complexities of caregiving, planning for the future, and staying mentally and emotionally resilient as a caregiver. If you are a caregiver or anticipate becoming one, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss this impactful conversation about caring for aging parents with confidence!
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- The importance of early and open conversations about healthcare, legal matters, and finances before health problems develop
- What legal preparations are necessary for effective caregiving, and what role do mental health power of attorney, medical power of attorney, and a financial power of attorney play?
- How can caregivers facilitate conversations about caregiving and aging with their loved ones?
- Prioritizing self-care and staying mentally agile as a caregiver + resources to support caregivers in their journey
Learn a little more about Jeannie:
Jeannie helps people from all walks of life as a coveted counselor, certified money coach, mental fitness coach, and speaker. With a Master’s degree in Counseling from Ottawa University and certification from the Money Coaching Institute, she passionately assists individuals, couples, and businesses in achieving their goals. Known for her holistic and gentle approach, Jeannie has garnered a strong reputation among her clients.
Having cared for her parents who battled Alzheimer’s for 11 years, Jeannie has unique insights into the financial and emotional challenges caregivers face, and she is dedicated to helping others navigate these difficulties. Being a money expert and mental fitness guide is her ultimate passion project, and her caregiver conference is here to connect you with the right folks so you won’t feel as alone and overwhelmed during this time.
Episode Links:
https://jeanniedougherty.com/
Download Purse String’s Family Emergency Binder:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1920161/13811152
Are you ready to transform your money mindset? Today’s guest is seasoned money coach who brings a wealth of personal experience, education, and a versatile toolbox of approaches to help her clients escape the cycle of financial dysfunction and build emotional health. Pam Richardson’s journey is a testament to the fact that changing a lifetime’s worth of money habits is a process that doesn’t happen overnight.
Pam empowers her clients to find confidence, clarity, and calm within their financial lives. Through her expertise and unique perspective, she provides a lifeline for individuals who have struggled with chronic overspending, debt, unhappiness, damaged relationships, and self-deception when it comes to money. Her approach is rooted in removing the shame, guilt, and stigma associated with financial struggles as she dives straight into the heart of the problem.
Pam joins us today to talk about how taking a mindful approach to your finances, setting boundaries, and adopting good financial habits can lead to a more secure and fulfilling financial future. She also offers practical advice for building a dream team of financial experts to guide your journey. Whether you’re managing a small budget or a substantial windfall, this episode has something valuable to offer you. Tune in and become financially fearless!
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- The importance of understanding and improving your money mindset to make better financial decisions
- How can women effectively manage inherited wealth and protect their financial future?
- Building a team of financial professionals, like financial planners and estate planners, to help you navigate your financial journey
- Identifying your core values and aligning your spending with what truly matters to you
Learn a little more about Pam:
Pam is a native New Englander who was born, raised, and educated in NH. She’s a mom to two grown and flown children, wife to Harvey, and a Gigi to the love of her life – Violet, who she adores beyond words.
Pam loves reality TV – namely Shark Tank, Undercover Boss, Amazing Race, and all iterations of the Bachelor. #guiltyascharged. She also loves traveling and has been to 46 of the 50 states and 12 foreign countries. Her favorite indulgences include coconut and chocolate (especially when combined).
Episode Links:
Download your copy of the Where Is Your Money Going spreadsheet:
Debt is a four letter word that can evoke a lot of emotions. Whether you’re working to pay off student loans, recently purchased a home or are facing unexpected medical bills, debt is a part of many of our financial stories. While the word can be intimidating and even bring on feelings of guilt and shame, today’s guest is here to remind us that it does not have to define your long-term financial success. In fact, when used intentionally, debt can actually be used as a tool for personal and financial growth. Listen in as we talk about tackling debt with confidence!
We so excited to introduce Vikki Zacchilli, the owner and financial coach behind Minted Mindset. She spent 12 years in corporate finance until her desire to make a direct impact on others’ lives became too strong to ignore. Through her own debt free journey of paying off $77K in 18 months, Vikki learned the value of personal finance and education on the lives of women and families. Today she coaches clients on reaching their full potential through financial literacy, money mindset, and organization.
Join us for a great conversation with Vikki, as she discusses the pivotal moments and mindset shifts that led to her personal debt free journey. We’ll talk about negotiating for salary increases, finding the right debt repayment method, maintaining a balance between financial discipline and enjoying life, and more.
Listen in as Vikki shares her story and shows that, while debt may accumulate, it is not insurmountable. With proper planning, commitment, and a change in mindset, you can successfully pay off your debt and achieve financial freedom!
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- Choosing a payment method that resonates with you and keeps you motivated
- Striking a balance between paying off debt and maintaining some level of lifestyle comfort
- Overcoming shame and guilt associated with debt
- Strategies for increasing income and negotiating for raises
- Having open and honest communication with your partner about your financial goals + working together as a team
Episode Links:
https://www.mintedmindset.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MintedMindsetFC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mintedmindsetfc/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mintedmindset
E-guide containing 5 Free Tips for Starting the Money Transformation Talk with Your Partner: https://www.mintedmindset.com/money-transformation-talk
$47 off your Empowerment Session (2 hour deep dive into your personal financial situation designed to tackle your most immediate financial goal) with code PURSESTRINGS
Divorce can be a turbulent journey fraught with emotional and financial challenges. Trying to navigate the financial maze of splitting assets, dealing with taxes, cash flow, and retirement implications can be incredibly overwhelming. That’s why we want to introduce you to Jennifer Merida, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst at Grace Financial Consulting, who has her own powerful story about making mistakes through her divorce but using that to empower herself.
Jennifer’s experience is not just about survival, but also about transformation. She used her personal trials to shape her professional triumphs, becoming a CDFA and using her experiences to guide women through the financial intricacies of divorce. She unraveled the importance of having a CDFA on your team during a divorce and how it could be a game-changer.
Having someone who understands the financial intricacies can save you from financial mishaps and can help you make informed decisions that will protect your financial future. Jennifer also touched on the importance of being part of a network of professionals who specialize in serving women in financial aspects.
Today we’ll lean on her 22 years of experience in financial planning to provide guidance and tips for anyone that might be in this position.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- When Jennifer went through her own divorce, she was overconfident to a fault and didn’t have someone to help her avoid some of the mistakes she made.
- So many women just want to get the divorce over, for good reason, and they rush through the process.
- Learn what role the CDFA plays in the process and why they are so valuable for getting your finances in order to start your new life.
- Tips on actions you need to take if you’re thinking about a divorce or going through one now.
- Why she thinks we should approach divorce and the small details like we do our wedding day.
Episode Links:
https://pursestrings.co/professional/jennifer-merida/
Learn more about Jennifer and the services she financial services she offers.
https://pursestrings.co/divorce-check-list/
Get our free Divorce Prep Check List that will give you some action items to take now.
