01
Aug, 2025
by
Niña West
Latest Money Moves
“Set It and Forget It” Savings Plans: Are They Still Worth It?
Hey there, savvy savers, dreamers of financial freedom, or anyone just trying to squeeze a bit more out of their paycheck. You’ve probably heard of those mystical “set it and forget it” savings plans. They promise the easy road to a plush nest egg without the hassle of managing every single penny. But are they still holding their weight in today’s fast-paced financial landscape? Let’s chat about it, old-school advice style—wise and witty, with a nod to personal experience that’s as real-world as you can get.
How to Use AI Tools to Budget Smarter Without Thinking Hard
Imagine being able to juggle your finances with the effortless grace of a professional clown tossing flaming batons. Sounds impossible, right? Well, what if I told you that you can budget smarter without even straining your brain's enthusiastic neurons? Welcome to the new era of budgeting with AI tools—your new best financial friend that won't judge you for your daily latte habit.
Zero-Based Budgeting: The Real-World Version That Actually Works
Welcome to the wild world of budgeting—a place where spreadsheets find their rhythm, and your money does a little happy dance. If you're tired of budgeting systems that feel as fun as a tax audit, stick around.
How to Set Financial Boundaries With Friends—Without Killing the Vibe
We've all been there. You're out with your friends, and suddenly, the bill arrives. It's a moment that can feel both ordinary and awkward, like that time I tried to dance the cha-cha after just watching a YouTube tutorial. Setting financial boundaries with friends might not sound like an art form, but trust me, it can be as graceful as mastering the cha-cha if approached correctly. Let's dive into how we can draw those lines without stepping on anyone's toes.
Is Your Side Hustle a Tax Bomb Waiting to Happen?
Tax season—everybody’s favorite time of the year, right? Well, okay, maybe not, but let’s not sleep on its importance, particularly if you’ve got a side hustle. Whether you’re pulling in extra cash driving for a rideshare company, selling hot-sauce on Etsy, or offering freelance graphic design services, that extra income could be a ticking financial time-bomb if you’re not managing it correctly.
How to Save for a Vacation Without Touching Your Main Budget
Who hasn’t daydreamed about escaping to a sun-dappled beach or wandering through cobblestone streets in a historic European city? The allure of vacation is like a siren's call, promising relaxation and adventure all wrapped up in a glossy travel brochure.
7 Surprising Ways People Are Saving Big on Summer Utilities
Summer's here, bringing with it long days, warm evenings, and the dreaded electricity bill that makes us all question our life choices. But fear not, fellow scorched souls, because I've spent the last few summers experimenting and getting creative with ways to trim down those utility costs. It's a mix of trial, error, and a touch of streetwise ingenuity that I’m about to spill.
This Summer’s Most Overrated “Money Hacks”—Debunked
Hey savvy spenders and penny pinchers! Gather around because it’s time to take a refreshing dip into the world of financial wisdom—sort of like a trusted summer pool party where the quests aren’t oily hot dogs and tacky inflatables, but shiny little pearls of money wisdom. This season, we've seen a surge of so-called "money hacks" riding the waves of viral fame. But are they really the clever clams they seem? Spoiler alert: Not always.