Flourish Financially with Kathy Longo

Retirement can be a difficult transition as you move from a structured career to a life of leisure, and it can be daunting and filled with uncertainty. And, many retirees don’t end up enjoying retirement like they thought they would. At my financial advisory firm, Flourish Wealth Management, we always say that EQ + IQ = Wealth because we understand the importance of preparing for your retirement y...

Although it’s no longer the beginning of the calendar year, I believe that it’s always a good time to think about your financial goals. Money touches every part of our lives, including our relationships and our emotions, too, so striking a balance between financial goals and well-being is not only wise but essential for a fulfilling life. That’s why this episode explores the significance of settin...

Financial freedom has obvious benefits, doesn’t it? They include things like increased savings, investment potential, and a secure retirement. However, the less obvious impacts of financial freedom are not discussed as frequently, although they are just as significant. They can subtly transform various aspects of your life, from improving mental health to fostering better relationships. In fact, t...

When you think about your finances, you probably don’t simultaneously consider your core values. But... maybe you should! In this episode, you'll learn why it’s important to get a bit introspective about your finances and consider things like your intrinsic values. This can take some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to thinking about your finances in a values-based way – and it may even fe...

Estate planning is one of those tasks that often gets sidelined in the busy flow of daily life. However, it's not just for the wealthy or the elderly. In fact, estate planning is essential for every adult, regardless of the size of your estate or your stage of life. Mid-year, with its natural pause as we leave spring behind and settle fully into summer, offers a perfect opportunity to evaluate and...

In the journey toward financial well-being, age is merely a number. Whether you're just starting your career, raising a family, or enjoying your retirement, achieving financial health is a goal that transcends generational boundaries. In this episode, I’ll explore key principles and strategies to help you foster financial well-being at any stage of life. For more information about Kathy, her firm,...

In today's world, achieving financial independence is more crucial than ever. For women, building wealth is not just about amassing money; it's about gaining control, security, and the freedom to live life on your terms. Whether you're a woman seeking financial independence or a man looking to guide your daughters or granddaughters, in this episode I’ll share actionable strategies to build wealth...

As parents, our world centers on our children when they’re young, which is why it's common to struggle with the transition from a full house and a busy schedule of kid-related activities to an empty nest and lots of free time. It can be an incredibly emotional time for parents. While you might feel happy and proud to have successfully launched young adults out into the world, you might simultaneou...

Financial literacy is a crucial skill for navigating life's financial challenges, yet most schools don’t teach it. This means it falls to parents to begin instilling financial wisdom in their kids from a young age. For parents, the responsibility of teaching children about money management offers a unique opportunity to set the foundation for a lifetime of financial health and responsibility, help...

Having an emergency fund is critical to building and maintaining wealth over time. This is true even if you have a high net worth or a high monthly income. Both of these things can make you feel more financially secure than you really are, meaning an unexpected emergency expense could have a significant negative impact on your present – and future – finances. For more information about Kathy, her...

As you’re cleaning out the cobwebs and decluttering your home this Spring, consider that it’s also the perfect opportunity to sweep through your finances and get better organized. By taking the time once a year to organize and optimize your financial strategies, you’re helping pave the way for a more comfortable – and less stressful – retirement. In this episode, I’ll share six steps to take in yo...

As you plan for your long-term financial goals, it’s smart to know your net worth – that is, the value of your assets minus your liabilities. It's an important number to keep in your sights, but many people don't realize that career growth is an essential piece of the puzzle, too. As you level-up your career, you'll level-up your earning potential - and your net worth, too. For more information ab...

Money touches nearly every aspect of our lives. In a world where financial instruments are increasingly sophisticated and the global economy more interconnected, the ability to understand and manage your own financial affairs is essential. Financial literacy is what enables you to save, invest, and manage debt wisely, contributing to overall economic stability – and personal well-being, too. For m...

Women face so many expectations these days, especially working moms. We are bombarded on all sides by endless streams of advice on how to be better parents as expectations for parent involvement have been growing, alongside many other more elaborate expectations for working mothers. Does this mean you can’t find success both at work and at home? No! In fact, I believe you can. You just have to cha...

Part of keeping your financial health strong is engaging in a bit of reflection and introspection from time to time. Think back to the resolutions you made at the start of the year, assess your progress, and make plans to move forward. If you aren't where you desire to be, common “mental roadblocks” could be holding you back. In this episode, you'll learn how to overcome four of these limiting min...

If you’ve heard the term “legacy planning,” you might think it’s interchangeable with “estate planning.” Though they are related concepts, they are distinct. In this episode, we explore going “beyond wealth” – and the traditional estate plan – to create a legacy plan that infuses purpose and passion, and serves as a testament to your values, beliefs, and the contributions you have made throughout...

Feeling fear or intimidation around numbers is more common than you might think, especially for women. However, adopting a reactive stance toward money management only perpetuates a cycle of financial uncertainty. Proactively engaging with your finances is crucial for realizing your goals and crafting a meaningful existence for yourself and your loved ones. In this episode, learn how to tackle 'nu...

There’s a lot that goes into a comprehensive retirement plan, and women have different considerations - and challenges - compared to men. This is due to many economic and social factors that work against women in intersecting ways. In this episode, I explore why proactive retirement planning is important for women and provide tips for creating a more secure retirement. For more information about K...

Entering into a second marriage is an opportunity for a fresh start, yet it comes with its own unique set of challenges, including combining households, blending families, and the challenge we’re discussing today – managing finances. Navigating this aspect successfully requires open communication, trust, and a shared commitment to building a secure future together. Today, I’ll share seven strategi...

Spring is the time when many high school seniors select their college and begin preparing for this next phase. While they are often full of excitement, it can be a worrisome time for parents. Although we have always seen ourselves as the protectors and decision-makers for our children, we lose some of our rights once they come of age. We may fully trust them to make their own decisions, but this c...

Many of us are on a quest for success – at work and in our personal lives – that often leads us down a path of intense pressure and stress. It affects not just our mental and physical health, but our financial wellness, too. The balancing act between maintaining health, managing stress, and ensuring financial stability is a complex challenge, and it's important to recognize the relationship betwee...

Money matters and mental health are inextricably connected. Being able to work through your day-to-day experiences with money and your emotions can help give you a better understanding of the interconnection between money and mental health for you personally, as well as give you a clearer understanding of what your strengths and weaknesses are when it comes to money management. For more informatio...

Entering into a second marriage is an opportunity for a fresh start, yet it comes with its own unique set of challenges, particularly in managing finances. The truth is that many people may have financial marital baggage from the past, especially given that money concerns remain one of the leading causes of divorce. Rather than ignore this potential element of a second marriage, it’s smart to be i...

Are you ready to gain clarity on the roots of your overspending habit and make a plan for positive change? We often have the best of intentions when it comes to our money goals – including with our spending. We might start the month resolving to stop unnecessary spending, only to be wooed by an unexpected sale here and a fancy coffee there. Before we know it, we’ve spent more money than we wanted...

Because money is such a big part of life, our wishes, hopes, dreams, and fears can sometimes make it hard to see the truth for what it is. Often, this happens without us realizing it, but the consequences can be very real. If you've been harboring any of these common money misconceptions, it might be time to set the record straight in your own mind and start embracing better choices. Your financia...