Kids Ain’t Cheap: The Real Cost of Parenting and How to Plan for It | Ana Kresina (EP386)

In this episode, author and financial educator Ana Kresina joins us to discuss the true cost of parenting and how families can build long-term financial stability. Drawing from her books Kids Ain’t Cheap and How Not to Work Forever, Ana shares her journey into personal finance, explains the FIRE movement, and unpacks the financial challenges parents face—including the motherhood penalty. With practical tips on budgeting, investing, and finding community support, she empowers listeners to take small, meaningful steps toward a more secure future.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

• Diane's Resource: Managing Your Money by Jane Bingham
• Previous Episode: Intentional Ways to Make Money at Home with Jenna Griffith (EP344)
• Connect with Ana:
• Website
• Book: Kids Ain't Cheap: How to Plan Financially for Parenthood and Your Family's Future
• Book: How To Not Work Forever: Start Investing and Build a Life You Love
• Instagram
• Instagram - Get Rich Slow
• Podcast

About Ana|

Ana Kresina a financial educator, a two-time author and speaker who works in the financial technology sector. She is the co-host of Australia’s leading podcast, Get Rich Slow Club, and has been featured in the ABC, the Australian Financial Review, AusBiz, Channel 9, and was listed as Finder's 2024 Financial Figures.

Episode Sponsors |

The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal!

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Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. 

Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.

Questions |

• You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.

• Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.

• If you’ve been struggling with motivation to declutter or work through bad habits that keep you stuck, I’d love to help you achieve your goals! We’ll work together (locally or virtually) to discover what areas in your life are high priority to get you feeling less overwhelmed right away.  For more info on my processes, fees, and availability please contact!

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