March 22, 2024 • 30 mins
Are you a creative young adult looking to achieve financial freedom? Then you won't want to miss this episode of Contagious Victories!
Join host Victoria B. Glass as she sits down with Taylor Sminchak, a financial coach who specializes in helping creatives and business owners grow healthy money habits with her company, Blossom Financial Coaching.
In this value-packed interview, Taylor shares her expert insights and tips for achieving financial success while pursuing your creative passions.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Victoria B.Glass (00:00):
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your
finances? Do you dream of a lifewhere money is not a source of
stress, but rather a tool forachieving your goals? Today on
the Contagious Victoriespodcast, I am talking with
Taylor Schminchak, an accreditedfinancial counselor and the
founder of Blossom FinancialCoaching. With a personal
(00:23):
experience of paying off $45,000in debt, Taylor has the unique
ability to understand and guideher clients towards financial
success. Are you ready to hearmy conversation with this
incredible woman and learn howher holistic approach to
finances can transform yourlife?
Victoria B. Glass (00:44):
Welcome to the Contagious Victories
Podcast. Each week, we talkinspiration, explore
possibilities, and shareinsights from creative
perspectives. I'm Tori Blackmonand I'm here to remind you that
your purpose in life is tocelebrate the victories because
victories are contagious.
Victoria B.Glass (01:06):
Are you ready to amplify your voice
Ready to be on the show? Reachout to me at
ContagiousVictories.com.
Victoria B. Glass (01:28):
Welcome back to another episode of the
Contagious Victories podcast.Today, I have a special guest.
I'm talking with Taylor fromBlossom Financial Coaching. And
today, we are gonna be talkingabout what led her to become a
financial coach. So welcome tothe show, Taylor.
Taylor Sminchak (01:47):
Thank you. I'm so happy to be here.
Victoria B. Glass (01:49):
Awesome. Well, I'm gonna let you start
with your victory story aboutgetting out of debt and how that
has led you to a blossomingbusiness with Blossom Financial
Coaching. So why don't you kickit off and tell us a little bit
about yourself and how you gotout of debt? Which is a huge
deal, especially today!
Taylor Sminchak (02:12):
Yeah. And, honestly, I was not in a place
to talk about this years ago. Ifeel like there's so much shame
around money and financialthings and especially debt, and
so I'm happy I'm in a spot nowthat I feel comfortable talking
about it. But, let me think. Soback to probably, like, post
college, so I was fortunateenough to not have any student
loans.
But shortly after gettingmarried, my husband and I, we
(02:34):
accumulated a lot of debt reallyquickly. So we had a personal
loan to help redo our fixerupper home. I bought a big girl
car because that's what you do,like, after you graduate and get
a job. So took on a car loanthat I had no business buying,
and we had some travel debt,believe it or not, like, from
our honeymoon and some otherthings.
So, we had about $45,000 indebt, which I know is more or
(02:56):
less, compared to some people,but we accumulated that pretty
quickly. And so we were justreally realizing, like, how much
we were sending to debt paymentsLike, toward our car payment and
credit card bills and, like,that type of thing. And so we
just were like, we have tochange this. And so
simultaneously so if it's okay,I'll jump back a second, to my
(03:17):
professional journey too.
My background's higher ed. So Ihave always worked with college
students prior to this businessand so I was working in a
student support office helpingstudents who were struggling
with, like, academics, mentalhealth, financial things.
Basically, we were a retentionoffice, and I was tasked with
creating a financial wellnesseducation program. And keep in
(03:40):
mind, we had all the stat thatwe were, like, trying to figure
out. Like, I was a express whenit came down my money, and so I
was tasked to create thisprogram even though I had no
criteria to do so.
And so through that process ofcreating this program and
supporting college students, wegot our own ducks in a row, and
then one thing led to another.And it took us about 28 months
(04:02):
or so to pay off thatdebt. But we did it!
Victoria B. Glass (04:03):
Oh, but that's not long. I mean, in the
grand scheme of things, it takesYeah. Usually a lot longer.
Taylor Sminchak (04:09):
Yeah. I mean, it felt like a long time in the
moment, and we probably couldhave faded off a little bit
quicker, but we wanted to havethat balance, right, of, like,
still traveling and, still,like, going out with friends and
doing those types of things. Andso that's just a huge reason why
I'm really passionate abouthelping my clients find that
balance because we can work onour goals of saving for things
(04:31):
or paying off debt if that'simportant to them, but finding
that balance was reallyimportant for us. And I know
it's important for a lot ofother people too to not
sacrifice a lot.
Victoria B. Glass (04:39):
Yeah. As far as, like, debt goes, what was
the biggest shock when youstarted putting that that
program together with yourprofessional job? Yeah.
Taylor Sminchak (04:49):
I think I honestly felt like a hypocrite,
believe it or not. Like I wasteaching these students how to
manage their money well whilesimultaneously we were
struggling to make ends meetwith our debt payments and we
had a mortgage and just livinglife we still wanted to enjoy
life. I think that's where a lotof young adults we struggle like
in your 20s just because youwant to do everything but then
(05:10):
you still have to balance otherthings. So something I wasn't
really expecting on our debtfree journey was just how much
peace would come from that, justthat sense of peace of not
having to have looming paymentsover your head or having to to
backtrack and thinkretroactively it was really just
life giving and just to be ableto focus on what we have
currently and where can we spendthis money wisely, how can we
(05:32):
give this money and be generous,and how can we spend in
alignment with our values. Sothat was something that really
was eye opening as I wasteaching this to college
students on my own journey of,like, I want my own spending to
be in alignment with what wevalue, and getting rid of that
debt was really huge in thatprocess.
Victoria B. Glass (05:48):
I bet so. Yeah. I know, personally, I shy
away from having importantfinancial conversations with
myself and finding thoseopportunities to save and stuff.
It seems to come in certainseasons like the beginning of
the year or, like, you know,around the end of the year when
I start making other New Year'sresolutions and goals and stuff,
(06:09):
I get really gung ho to get myfinances in order, and I'm
really inspired by it. But atthe same time, it's a little bit
intimidating, and I think thatother people probably relate
with that feeling as well.
So, to hear you say that there'sa lot of peace that comes with
it once you start gettingorganized and start getting your
finances in order, that is verymotivating to someone who maybe
(06:32):
loses focus in other seasons. Soit's good that you are able to
identify that that peace of mindand and share it. And I know
you've been doing a lot of 1 on1 coaching with creatives. You,
have recently been reallyinspired by working with
creatives. And as someone whowent to college with an art
degree, I am self identified andalso on a little piece of paper
(06:56):
identified as a creative and asan artist.
And, and sometimes I think,well, I could have easily done
that without going to college,and now I have all the student
debt. But like I mentioned, I doget inspired every so often to,
like, really hunker down and andfind more tips and stuff. But
other than the snowball method,I don't know of any other, like,
(07:17):
little tips that really would, Iguess, benefit someone like me.
Could you share a couple tidbitsand tips that you've learned
since you've been working withmore creatives and artists?
Taylor Sminchak (07:28):
Yeah. I think you brought up a really
interesting point. I think a lotof people in our generation feel
bad or remorseful or regretfulabout the debt that they've
taken on for student loans orcars like me or travel expenses
and I think it's reallyimportant that we first learn to
forgive ourselves for any pastmoney mistakes that we've made.
Not necessarily saying that astudent degree, is a mistake,
(07:49):
but I think that's really hugethat I first try and work with
my clients and making sure thatwe made the decisions that we
did. We had the we used theinformation that we had to the
best of our ability. And so Ithink that that mindset piece is
really, really huge, but,there's so many different tips.
And and that's why 1 on 1financial coaching is so
effective is because it's sounique. Back to the creative
(08:12):
piece, I've I've neverconsidered myself super creative
in the traditional sense. Like,I'm a horrible artist.
I can't sing, like, all thethings. But that was really an
eye opening piece for me of justrealizing I am creative and it's
just in a different way of wehave to think creatively about
our money and how can we figureout what works for us and how
can we trick our brain in uniqueways and whatnot. But for tips,
(08:34):
I would say at least with debt,I think first just looking at
how much you have. I know that'sthe most painful part ever, just
doing an audit of what is mydebt, how much do I have, what
does it look like, but thesnowball is probably the most
popular method that's out there.Avalanche is another method.
I don't know ifyou've ever heard of it before?
Victoria B. Glass: no, I haven't. Nuh-uh (08:51):
undefined
Taylor Sminchak (08:53):
So it's kind of the flip. It's snowball for
anyone who's not familiar withthat. You take all of your debt
from the size, from smallest tolargest, and you tackle that
smallest debt first. Avalanche,you do that with interest rate.
So you tackle the highestinterest rate first and then you
work the other way around. Butmany of my clients, we come up
with a hybrid method. So this iswhere some of that creativity
(09:15):
comes into play of what would bemost motivating for you as an
individual. Some people are verymotivated by the snowball. Other
people are really motivated bythe avalanche method, or maybe
there's certain debts that youjust are really motivated to see
gone.
Maybe there was some, like, poorspending, or I've seen, maybe
debt that came from a as aresult of, like, a divorce or
(09:37):
something like that. So it'sreally that's where that
creativity comes into play ofdon't fall victim to everything
you see on YouTube or, like, thecookie cutter things that are
out there. It's really unique toyou. And so I think that should
be exciting for creatives justto know that I can play around
with this and make this work forme, and find out what motivates
me the most.
Victoria B. Glass (09:56):
Yeah. I love that. I haven't heard of the
combo or the avalanche. So tohave, you make your own is
definitely right up my alley asan as a creative person, and it
makes the conversation a littlebit more, approachable and peace
the peace of mind is definitelythere. And yeah.
(10:16):
So I think that's really uniqueand interesting. So, Taylor,
tell me a little bit more aboutwhat you're doing now with
Blossom Financial Coaching. Iknow we talked a little bit
about the 1 on 1 that you'reoffering, and you shared a
little bit of insight about waysthat you can put together some
strategies for getting your debtand your finances under control.
(10:38):
But, what does your day to daylook like as a financial coach,
and what are some of the otherclients outside of creatives
that you work with? Is it is itanyone?
Is it more so people, like,coming out of college? Tell me
all about it.
Taylor Sminchak (10:52):
Yeah. So Blossom Financial Coaching, that
was created while I was stillworking in higher ed. I loved
working with college students.That's my history. That's, you
know, what I studied for in mymaster's degree program, but I
just really craved that 1 on 1work, with individuals.
And so slowly but surely behindthe scenes, I crafted this
business just so that way Icould better serve individuals
(11:13):
on a 1 on 1 capacity. And sothrough that journey, I mean,
this has been a victory in ofitself of just realizing, one,
this is what I wanna do. I neverenvisioned wanting to be a
financial coach. Like, financesare not sexy by any means. So,
but then transitioning to parttime work.
And then now just fullyoperating my business and I do
(11:33):
so in a part time capacity, butas a mom it's really helpful to
have that flexibility. I have 2toddlers so it's just helpful to
have that flexibility with that.But my bread and butter is
really supporting individuals ina 1 on 1 capacity. And so,
really, all of my clients firststart with a clarity session is
what it's called. So it's a 90minute session where we dive
(11:54):
deep and just create a plan thatworks for you, and we can have
fun with money and make it,approachable for you and all the
things.
And then clients, if they'reinterested, they can choose to
do, more of a long term programwhere we really see that success
really blossom, which is myname, Blossom Financial
Coaching. So, and I also do somegroup programs too. So, right
now, I'm leading a free 21 dayno spend challenge with about 20
(12:17):
plus women. And so that's beenreally cool just to make, again,
finances more approachable. Soit doesn't have to be some scary
intimidating thing.
We're just gonna, you know, makeit come to us, and make it more
real life for us and applicable.I also do presentations and
workshops. I love doingworkshops, and just having
people think intentionally withtheir money, and how they wanna
(12:39):
make it work for them based ontheir values and their
priorities in life. So, yeah,day to day, I do a little bit of
everything. So a lot of virtualmeetings where I'm coaching
clients 1 on 1, checking in withmy clients, leading some group
programs that I have too, but Iget to do a little bit of
everything which I really love.
To answer your other questionabout who I like to serve, so I
(13:00):
serve a little bit of everybodyfrom different demographics and
walks of life, but I really loveserving individuals who are post
college, I would say thirties orso, just because that's such an
exciting time in our lives whereand scary, I think, as well.
It's scary and exciting becausethere's so many new things that
are happening. We'retransitioning off of college in
(13:20):
most situations. You maybe wantto buy a house. Maybe you are
wanting to get married, havekids, you wanna travel and live
life, and you're still havingfun and going out with your
friends and and whatever thecase is, but it's hard to find
that balance.
And so that's where I'm reallypassionate just to show that you
can do both. You can enjoy yourmoney and be generous with your
money, but still working on yourgoals too.
Victoria B. Glass (13:41):
Yes. And, in that phase of life, not so much
the college, but in that phaseof life of, like, okay. Do I
need a new car, a big girl car?Do I need to put it in savings?
Do I need to take that vacationthat I've been wanting to take?
Or you know? So, that is a veryexciting and also confusing time
because paralleling thosethoughts that I'm having is also
(14:02):
the other thoughts about gettingexcited about
that you offer to young peoplecoming out of college and in
that first, I feel like, roundof adulthood is a good way to
kinda put it where you're youknow, maybe you've been on your
(14:24):
own a little bit in college, butnow that you are post it, you're
figuring it out and, you know,you've got those those bills and
things coming out and stuff. Soyour money is being taken in
ways that maybe you didn'treally think when you were in
college that it would go itwould go towards and stuff like
that. So figuring out all ofthose things is definitely a
(14:45):
challenge, but I can see thevalue in having a coach. And
even some of those groupcoaching sessions or group
workshops that you offer, Icould see where that would be
really valuable for someone likeme, so I'm gonna have to look
into to that a little bit more.
When I was looking up more aboutyou and, like, reading about
your background and stuff, Inoticed that you're a holistic
(15:06):
coach, a little bit of a youhave an holistic financial,
approach. And you kinda wentinto that a little bit with the
why behind what you're doing,and you got your day scheduled
out where you can be with your 2toddlers. Can you tell me a
little bit more about how yougot your life structured in that
way, and then why is thatimportant to you to be able to
help other people do that aswell?
Taylor Sminchak (15:29):
Yeah. I would say thinking back to my life
before financial coaching when Iworked in higher education, I
kind of felt stuck in my jobbecause of my debt payments that
I had that I had to still havethat salary, I still needed to
you know work that 9 to 5, 8 to5 job so that I could still do
things with my kids or pay forour house, all those things. And
(15:50):
so becoming debt free reallyprovided that freedom where I
could make more choices. And sothat's why I hope this is an
encouragement to your listeners.Yes, it might not be fun when
you're first getting started onwhatever financial journey
you're pursuing.
I know it's not a sexy topic byany means, but this is your why
of what do you want that life tolook like after, you know, you
(16:10):
make some of those temporarysacrifices. And so for me, from
that holistic approach, I wantedthat balance. I wanted to be a
mom and be able to fill my cupwhen it comes to business things
and being a professional. And sobecause we paid off that debt,
that provided that avenue whereI could make that leap. So I
hope that's an encouragement forindividuals that it might
require some temporarysacrifice, but then you have all
(16:33):
of that freedom, you know, tomake decisions that are in line
for what you value personally.
So and I hope that answeredyour questions.
Victoria B. Glass (16:39):
It did. It did. And I like how, how you
explained that too because it isall about sacrifice. And I feel
like even when you do have yourfinances in order, which I'm not
saying that I do.
I don't. But, I think that Ihave a little bit of a a a good
foot in the right door with,paying off my car. I did that
(17:00):
right away, and, I had tried totake a little bit of advantage
during the COVID stuff with mystudent loans. There was no
interest rates, and I was like,okay. I'm still working.
I'm still gonna pay the like,some payments towards that. If
there's no interest, why not?You know? So I think I try to
think smart in that way towardsmy finances, but I, by no means,
(17:20):
have it under control. However,I do see the value, like I
mentioned, in in gettingfinancial, getting your finances
in order and becoming savvy inthat financial lingo, and I, I
have an interest in that.
And I you know, you keep sayingthat it's not sexy. I think it's
sexy. I think that it really isbecause it seems like when you
(17:42):
really have you know what you'reworking with and you have a good
understanding of what you havein the bank and not in a way of,
like, you know, money, money,money, but in a way of, like,
organized, organized, organized,then you know who you are and
what you can play with if it'syou know, if if you wanna look
at it like that. And I don'tknow if if that's how you feel,
(18:02):
but I've always wanted to becomecompletely debt free. And so
that's always been even since Iwas, like, little, a goal of
mine is I wasn't afraid of theboogeyman, but the commercials
on TV about credit card debt,they got me.
So, I've always, you know, hadthat mixed feelings, but, also,
I think it is incredibly, youknow, attractive to have that
(18:25):
under control, and then also Iwant to be able to feel
confident so that I can approachmy finances with that good
mindset and stuff. So I like theway that you said that you have
to sacrifice things, though,because at the end of the day,
it is about sacrifice. And Ithink, personally, whenever you
do give in a way, that can belooked at as a sacrifice, but in
a way, it also isn't. But whenyou give and when you feel like
(18:49):
you know how much you have togive and that kind of thing,
I've noticed in my own life, itusually it either comes back,
and that's not the reason I doit, but it'll come back to you,
or it'll make you feel moreconfident and that, in a way,
will come back, like,energetically. You know?
So...
Taylor Sminchak: Yeah, Definitely. Yeah. And it's (19:08):
undefined
a confidence thing. I mean,that's really all this is. We're
just trying to become moreconfident when it comes to our
money decisions.
Like, we wanna feel good aboutthe decisions that we're making.
And first of all, congrats onpaying off your car and the
other debt that you said. That'samazing. Yeah.
Victoria B. Glass: Thanks! It was not a new car by (19:23):
undefined
any means, but it, you know, itwas mine, and I've always taken
a lot of pride in having thatunder my belt. I've never had
that over me, but thank you.
Taylor Sminchak (19:34):
No. That's huge. Yeah. And I think it's
just getting a taste of it. Imean, you probably weren't,
like, super excited at thebeginning, but once you got that
taste of how it feels to feellike I'm more confident with my
money and feel like I have,like, a sense of control or I
have a road map that I wannafollow, Like, that's really half
the battle, I think, is justfirst exposing yourself because
a lot of people have anxietywhen it comes to money based on
(19:55):
past experiences or maybe theirparents thought about money a
lot or whatnot, or you just knowyou're in a rough spot and you
just don't wanna look at it.
I think if you're able to ripoff that band aid and just jump
in and get a look at at whereyou're at, I think you slowly
but surely get that taste whereyou're just more excited and
more motivated over time.
Victoria B. Glass (20:12):
I think the hardest part too is admitting
that you care about it. Youknow? Like, I think with you
hear a lot of women especiallytalking about, like, you're it's
rude or not socially acceptableto talk about it. And whenever I
heard that originally, I waslike, oh, I didn't know that.
Whoops.
You know? But, but at the sametime, I think too, it's kind of
(20:33):
nervous to or nerve wracking forme at least to be like, I do
care about getting my studentloans paid off. Like, I don't
want to have that car notehanging over my head. Like,
those things matter. And theymight not matter to everybody,
but they matter to me.
And, so I guess admitting thatis a little bit hard. And then,
also, just, again, stayingfocused throughout the whole
(20:54):
year is I feel like the biggesthang up. But when you said it's
a mindset shift, I you probablyhave already heard this, but one
of the, biggest things that I'vebeen doing in 2024 that I have
stayed pretty accountable withis saying using the mindset
shift to say, instead of I can'tafford it, what can I do to
(21:15):
afford it? I don't know ifyou've ever heard that little
tidbit. I think it came from abook or something that I read a
while back.
But, if any of the listeners aremaybe wondering where can they
start today, like, literally inthe next 5 minutes, then maybe
they could use that little mindtip of changing the way that you
talk instead of saying, I cannotafford this, or, oh, I can't
(21:37):
afford, you know, a drink orwhatever to stop at the gas
station. You know, with to eachtheir own, I would tell you you
can drink water at home becausethat's what my mom told me
growing up. But instead ofsaying I can't afford it, how
can I afford it? So maybe youcan, you know, start calling up
your, list of potential clientsand saying, hey. I've got this
(21:59):
new offer or whatever.
And then once you make the sale,then you can go and get that
drink at the gas station. Doesthat make sense? Is that No.
Okay.
Taylor Sminchak (22:07):
I mean, it makes you a little bit more
motivated. I mean, you work alittle bit harder. Yeah. Like
well and even, like, I lovethat, but, like, I can't afford
it right now. I think instantgratification is something that
I struggle with.
Like, I when I want something, Iwanna buy it now. Right? Like, I
see it on from an influenceronline or I'm driving past
somewhere, and I just, like,wanna buy it. So I think that's
even, like, a huge mindset shiftof, like, let me sit on this for
(22:29):
a second. And, like, do I reallyneed this?
Do I really want it? Becausehalf the time, we'll change our
mind. Yeah. Like, 10 minuteslater, I think it's, like, half
the battle too. But but, yeah,if someone's first starting,
like, if you if this has peakedyour interest by any means, I
think what you really need to dofirst is probably do what I call
a spending audit. And I knowthat sounds, like, super icky
(22:50):
and, like, not super exciting byany means, but it really just
looks at maybe your last month,but realistically your last 3
months and see what are youspending on average in similar
categories. So for example, lookat how much are you spending on
groceries in a month on average,how much are you spending on
restaurants, on fun things,transportation, clothing? Try
(23:13):
and group them to the best ofyour ability. And I know it can
be painful to look at those,especially if you struggle with
a spending problem of any kind,but that's gonna be that
foundation for us to moveforward to create a budget
that's realistic for you, thatworks for you.
That's really what I wouldencourage someone to do first is
to just look through my spendingand what am I spending on
(23:34):
average in different categories,if that makes sense.
Victoria B. Glass (23:37):
That's really good advice and a great place to
start too. So create a spendingaudit and look through all of
your finances and start groupingthem together and seeing where
your money is going. Is thatright?
Taylor Sminchak (23:50):
Yeah. It can hurt. It can hurt. I'm not gonna
lie. It's really ripping offthat Band Aid.
And, again, if someone struggleswith spending problems of any
kind, like, just to see thatnumber in writing of how much
you're actually spending. Somepeople get really upset about
it. Like, oh my gosh. I had noclue I was wasting that much
money on x y z. But I justreally encourage you, hone into
that, and just use that to spuryou along to do the next step,
(24:14):
which would be creating a budgetor seeking community.
Community is really big. I knowwe haven't talked too too much
on that, but just to maintainmotivation throughout your
financial journey is seek peoplewho talk about money. Like,
money does not need to be taboo.Like, similar to what you were
saying. Like, why is it taboo?
Find friends who will talk aboutmoney with you, where you can
(24:35):
celebrate your wins in additionto sharing what you're
struggling with and and pickingtheir brain. So, hopefully, you
have people in your life, ourlisteners, but if not, finding
that community through peoplearound you or I know I have some
community groups as well. So Ithink that's really important to
maintain that momentum becauseyou're not gonna feel like doing
it every day. I'm still on amoney journey, and I don't feel
(24:56):
like doing it every day. And Iwork with people every day on
their money.
There's just sometimes when youjust don't wanna look at your
money or whatever is happening.You know? It's not always easy.
So I think that's really gonnahelp people continue on their
journey.
Victoria B. Glass (25:08):
Well, I will have to keep up with you,
Taylor, for that next, groupworkshop that you do and then
also for one of those 1 on 1coaching sessions. Where can
listeners go to find out moreabout both of those things?
Taylor Sminchak (25:23):
Yeah. So I'm active on Instagram, so my
handle is @Blossom FinancialCoaching, and then also my
website, Blossom FinancialCoaching .com
Victoria B. Glass (25:30):
Awesome. Well, thank you so much for all
of the information today. Didyou have anything else you
wanted to share about yourbusiness or about your journey,
your victory story to being abusiness owner, to getting debt
free? Anything that you wannaadd to share with our listeners?
Taylor Sminchak (25:47):
I think most importantly, just keep going.
Just keep putting one foot infront of the other. Don't jump
too far ahead whether it's inyour business journey or
anything else that you're goingthrough with your money. Just
one step at a time, and it'lldefinitely pay off when you look
back. But I also would love togive any of your listeners a
discount code if they areinterested in scheduling a
(26:09):
clarity session, my 90 minutesession that I offer, so I can
give a 25% discount code ofvictory.
We'll do that. So that way itworks with your podcast. There
you go.
Victoria B. Glass (26:18):
Thank you.
Taylor Sminchak (26:18):
And, yeah, I would love to work with anyone
who is just wanting to take thatfirst step to making money more
approachable where they justfeel more confident about how
they're spending and savingtheir money.
Victoria B. Glass (26:27):
Yes. And all of the listeners, you should
take advantage of that. That isa very generous discount code.
Thank you so much, Taylor. Yousaid victory is the little code.
Alright. Well, if you want tocheck on that, then go to her
website. I will be very muchfollowing up with that. That
sounds right up my alley. And Iknow we don't typically talk
(26:49):
about money over here, but Ithink that as an artist and as a
creative and working you know,you deal with money.
And so just to have thatclarity, to have that
confidence, that is so valuable,especially if you are
celebrating your victories. Youdon't wanna have to celebrate
one day, and then the next daybe, like, all upset and crying
(27:10):
because, you know, you don'thave the the funds that you
thought you did or whatever. So,let's all take this time to get
organized, take advantage ofthat discount code, and let's
come back a year from now andbe, like, really, really just
organized with all of our ourfinances so that we can be savvy
with our with our spending, andwe don't have to feel, like, you
(27:32):
know, guilty or shameful aroundit anymore. We can just create
and, live our victory storieswithout any any burdens holding
us back. So thank you.
I'm gonna be taking advantage ofthat code. I really appreciate
it. Genuinely, that's verygenerous. So thank you, Taylor.
Sure.
And thank you for coming on, andI cannot wait to find out more
(27:52):
about Blossom Financial. And andI'll have all of the promo codes
that Taylor talked about in ourconversation today listed in the
show notes. So don't go anywhereexcept to check out those show
notes.
Taylor Sminchak (28:04):
Yeah. Thank you so much for having me on your
podcast. I appreciate it.
Victoria B.Glass (28:19):
Now wasn't that an amazing conversation?
From setting tangible goals tofacing our fears and changing
our mindset, Taylor's advice isnot only practical, but it was
also empowering. It's not justabout getting out of debt. Her
approach applies to managingmoney and reaching our full
potential in all aspects oflife. As we discussed her
(28:42):
insights and strategies, itbecame clear that by taking
control of our finances, we cantransform our lives for the
better, but it's not enough tojust listen to this inspiring
conversation.
We must take action. Taylor'sconversation was a good reminder
that no one can do this for youbut you. So why not start today?
(29:03):
Whether it's reaching out toTaylor for coaching or simply
taking the first step towardsyour own financial freedom by
flipping the script on the wayyou talk to yourself. Remember,
it's how can I afford it?
Scratch the phrase, I can'tafford it, from your vocabulary.
Let's make a commitment toourselves and our futures. As we
(29:24):
wrap up this episode and reflecton the valuable insights shared
by Taylor, remember that it'snever too late to take control
of your finances and transformyour life. So let's continue the
conversation and support eachother on this journey towards
contagious victories. And as wego forth, let's keep in mind the
(29:45):
words of Warren Buffett.
The best investment that you canmake is in yourself. Until next
time. Celebrate the big wins andthe small ones. Bye, friends.
Victoria B. Glass (30:01):
Thanks for joining us for this week's
episode of the ContagiousVictories Podcast. If the show
inspired you to hear your ownvictory story, I'm here to tell
you the world deserves to hearit. Submit it to me on mine at
ToriBlackmo.com. Review andsubscribe if that feels right.
Telling a friend about the showhelps continue his victories to
(30:22):
grow.
Plus, we all appreciate a littlesunshine. I'm Tori B. Thanks for
listening. I'll catch you soon.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your
finances? Do you dream of a lifewhere money is not a source of
stress, but rather a tool forachieving your goals? Today on
the Contagious Victoriespodcast, I am talking with
Taylor Schminchak, an accreditedfinancial counselor and the
founder of Blossom FinancialCoaching. With a personal
(00:23):
experience of paying off $45,000in debt, Taylor has the unique
ability to understand and guideher clients towards financial
success. Are you ready to hearmy conversation with this
incredible woman and learn howher holistic approach to
finances can transform yourlife?
Victoria B. Glass (00:44):
Welcome to the Contagious Victories
Podcast. Each week, we talkinspiration, explore
possibilities, and shareinsights from creative
perspectives. I'm Tori Blackmonand I'm here to remind you that
your purpose in life is tocelebrate the victories because
victories are contagious.
Victoria B.Glass (01:06):
Are you ready to amplify your voice
Ready to be on the show? Reachout to me at
ContagiousVictories.com.
Victoria B. Glass (01:28):
Welcome back to another episode of the
Contagious Victories podcast.Today, I have a special guest.
I'm talking with Taylor fromBlossom Financial Coaching. And
today, we are gonna be talkingabout what led her to become a
financial coach. So welcome tothe show, Taylor.
Taylor Sminchak (01:47):
Thank you. I'm so happy to be here.
Victoria B. Glass (01:49):
Awesome. Well, I'm gonna let you start
with your victory story aboutgetting out of debt and how that
has led you to a blossomingbusiness with Blossom Financial
Coaching. So why don't you kickit off and tell us a little bit
about yourself and how you gotout of debt? Which is a huge
deal, especially today!
Taylor Sminchak (02:12):
Yeah. And, honestly, I was not in a place
to talk about this years ago. Ifeel like there's so much shame
around money and financialthings and especially debt, and
so I'm happy I'm in a spot nowthat I feel comfortable talking
about it. But, let me think. Soback to probably, like, post
college, so I was fortunateenough to not have any student
loans.
But shortly after gettingmarried, my husband and I, we
(02:34):
accumulated a lot of debt reallyquickly. So we had a personal
loan to help redo our fixerupper home. I bought a big girl
car because that's what you do,like, after you graduate and get
a job. So took on a car loanthat I had no business buying,
and we had some travel debt,believe it or not, like, from
our honeymoon and some otherthings.
So, we had about $45,000 indebt, which I know is more or
(02:56):
less, compared to some people,but we accumulated that pretty
quickly. And so we were justreally realizing, like, how much
we were sending to debt paymentsLike, toward our car payment and
credit card bills and, like,that type of thing. And so we
just were like, we have tochange this. And so
simultaneously so if it's okay,I'll jump back a second, to my
(03:17):
professional journey too.
My background's higher ed. So Ihave always worked with college
students prior to this businessand so I was working in a
student support office helpingstudents who were struggling
with, like, academics, mentalhealth, financial things.
Basically, we were a retentionoffice, and I was tasked with
creating a financial wellnesseducation program. And keep in
(03:40):
mind, we had all the stat thatwe were, like, trying to figure
out. Like, I was a express whenit came down my money, and so I
was tasked to create thisprogram even though I had no
criteria to do so.
And so through that process ofcreating this program and
supporting college students, wegot our own ducks in a row, and
then one thing led to another.And it took us about 28 months
(04:02):
or so to pay off thatdebt. But we did it!
Victoria B. Glass (04:03):
Oh, but that's not long. I mean, in the
grand scheme of things, it takesYeah. Usually a lot longer.
Taylor Sminchak (04:09):
Yeah. I mean, it felt like a long time in the
moment, and we probably couldhave faded off a little bit
quicker, but we wanted to havethat balance, right, of, like,
still traveling and, still,like, going out with friends and
doing those types of things. Andso that's just a huge reason why
I'm really passionate abouthelping my clients find that
balance because we can work onour goals of saving for things
(04:31):
or paying off debt if that'simportant to them, but finding
that balance was reallyimportant for us. And I know
it's important for a lot ofother people too to not
sacrifice a lot.
Victoria B. Glass (04:39):
Yeah. As far as, like, debt goes, what was
the biggest shock when youstarted putting that that
program together with yourprofessional job? Yeah.
Taylor Sminchak (04:49):
I think I honestly felt like a hypocrite,
believe it or not. Like I wasteaching these students how to
manage their money well whilesimultaneously we were
struggling to make ends meetwith our debt payments and we
had a mortgage and just livinglife we still wanted to enjoy
life. I think that's where a lotof young adults we struggle like
in your 20s just because youwant to do everything but then
(05:10):
you still have to balance otherthings. So something I wasn't
really expecting on our debtfree journey was just how much
peace would come from that, justthat sense of peace of not
having to have looming paymentsover your head or having to to
backtrack and thinkretroactively it was really just
life giving and just to be ableto focus on what we have
currently and where can we spendthis money wisely, how can we
(05:32):
give this money and be generous,and how can we spend in
alignment with our values. Sothat was something that really
was eye opening as I wasteaching this to college
students on my own journey of,like, I want my own spending to
be in alignment with what wevalue, and getting rid of that
debt was really huge in thatprocess.
Victoria B. Glass (05:48):
I bet so. Yeah. I know, personally, I shy
away from having importantfinancial conversations with
myself and finding thoseopportunities to save and stuff.
It seems to come in certainseasons like the beginning of
the year or, like, you know,around the end of the year when
I start making other New Year'sresolutions and goals and stuff,
(06:09):
I get really gung ho to get myfinances in order, and I'm
really inspired by it. But atthe same time, it's a little bit
intimidating, and I think thatother people probably relate
with that feeling as well.
So, to hear you say that there'sa lot of peace that comes with
it once you start gettingorganized and start getting your
finances in order, that is verymotivating to someone who maybe
(06:32):
loses focus in other seasons. Soit's good that you are able to
identify that that peace of mindand and share it. And I know
you've been doing a lot of 1 on1 coaching with creatives. You,
have recently been reallyinspired by working with
creatives. And as someone whowent to college with an art
degree, I am self identified andalso on a little piece of paper
(06:56):
identified as a creative and asan artist.
And, and sometimes I think,well, I could have easily done
that without going to college,and now I have all the student
debt. But like I mentioned, I doget inspired every so often to,
like, really hunker down and andfind more tips and stuff. But
other than the snowball method,I don't know of any other, like,
(07:17):
little tips that really would, Iguess, benefit someone like me.
Could you share a couple tidbitsand tips that you've learned
since you've been working withmore creatives and artists?
Taylor Sminchak (07:28):
Yeah. I think you brought up a really
interesting point. I think a lotof people in our generation feel
bad or remorseful or regretfulabout the debt that they've
taken on for student loans orcars like me or travel expenses
and I think it's reallyimportant that we first learn to
forgive ourselves for any pastmoney mistakes that we've made.
Not necessarily saying that astudent degree, is a mistake,
(07:49):
but I think that's really hugethat I first try and work with
my clients and making sure thatwe made the decisions that we
did. We had the we used theinformation that we had to the
best of our ability. And so Ithink that that mindset piece is
really, really huge, but,there's so many different tips.
And and that's why 1 on 1financial coaching is so
effective is because it's sounique. Back to the creative
(08:12):
piece, I've I've neverconsidered myself super creative
in the traditional sense. Like,I'm a horrible artist.
I can't sing, like, all thethings. But that was really an
eye opening piece for me of justrealizing I am creative and it's
just in a different way of wehave to think creatively about
our money and how can we figureout what works for us and how
can we trick our brain in uniqueways and whatnot. But for tips,
(08:34):
I would say at least with debt,I think first just looking at
how much you have. I know that'sthe most painful part ever, just
doing an audit of what is mydebt, how much do I have, what
does it look like, but thesnowball is probably the most
popular method that's out there.Avalanche is another method.
I don't know ifyou've ever heard of it before?
Victoria B. Glass: no, I haven't. Nuh-uh (08:51):
undefined
Taylor Sminchak (08:53):
So it's kind of the flip. It's snowball for
anyone who's not familiar withthat. You take all of your debt
from the size, from smallest tolargest, and you tackle that
smallest debt first. Avalanche,you do that with interest rate.
So you tackle the highestinterest rate first and then you
work the other way around. Butmany of my clients, we come up
with a hybrid method. So this iswhere some of that creativity
(09:15):
comes into play of what would bemost motivating for you as an
individual. Some people are verymotivated by the snowball. Other
people are really motivated bythe avalanche method, or maybe
there's certain debts that youjust are really motivated to see
gone.
Maybe there was some, like, poorspending, or I've seen, maybe
debt that came from a as aresult of, like, a divorce or
(09:37):
something like that. So it'sreally that's where that
creativity comes into play ofdon't fall victim to everything
you see on YouTube or, like, thecookie cutter things that are
out there. It's really unique toyou. And so I think that should
be exciting for creatives justto know that I can play around
with this and make this work forme, and find out what motivates
me the most.
Victoria B. Glass (09:56):
Yeah. I love that. I haven't heard of the
combo or the avalanche. So tohave, you make your own is
definitely right up my alley asan as a creative person, and it
makes the conversation a littlebit more, approachable and peace
the peace of mind is definitelythere. And yeah.
(10:16):
So I think that's really uniqueand interesting. So, Taylor,
tell me a little bit more aboutwhat you're doing now with
Blossom Financial Coaching. Iknow we talked a little bit
about the 1 on 1 that you'reoffering, and you shared a
little bit of insight about waysthat you can put together some
strategies for getting your debtand your finances under control.
(10:38):
But, what does your day to daylook like as a financial coach,
and what are some of the otherclients outside of creatives
that you work with? Is it is itanyone?
Is it more so people, like,coming out of college? Tell me
all about it.
Taylor Sminchak (10:52):
Yeah. So Blossom Financial Coaching, that
was created while I was stillworking in higher ed. I loved
working with college students.That's my history. That's, you
know, what I studied for in mymaster's degree program, but I
just really craved that 1 on 1work, with individuals.
And so slowly but surely behindthe scenes, I crafted this
business just so that way Icould better serve individuals
(11:13):
on a 1 on 1 capacity. And sothrough that journey, I mean,
this has been a victory in ofitself of just realizing, one,
this is what I wanna do. I neverenvisioned wanting to be a
financial coach. Like, financesare not sexy by any means. So,
but then transitioning to parttime work.
And then now just fullyoperating my business and I do
(11:33):
so in a part time capacity, butas a mom it's really helpful to
have that flexibility. I have 2toddlers so it's just helpful to
have that flexibility with that.But my bread and butter is
really supporting individuals ina 1 on 1 capacity. And so,
really, all of my clients firststart with a clarity session is
what it's called. So it's a 90minute session where we dive
(11:54):
deep and just create a plan thatworks for you, and we can have
fun with money and make it,approachable for you and all the
things.
And then clients, if they'reinterested, they can choose to
do, more of a long term programwhere we really see that success
really blossom, which is myname, Blossom Financial
Coaching. So, and I also do somegroup programs too. So, right
now, I'm leading a free 21 dayno spend challenge with about 20
(12:17):
plus women. And so that's beenreally cool just to make, again,
finances more approachable. Soit doesn't have to be some scary
intimidating thing.
We're just gonna, you know, makeit come to us, and make it more
real life for us and applicable.I also do presentations and
workshops. I love doingworkshops, and just having
people think intentionally withtheir money, and how they wanna
(12:39):
make it work for them based ontheir values and their
priorities in life. So, yeah,day to day, I do a little bit of
everything. So a lot of virtualmeetings where I'm coaching
clients 1 on 1, checking in withmy clients, leading some group
programs that I have too, but Iget to do a little bit of
everything which I really love.
To answer your other questionabout who I like to serve, so I
(13:00):
serve a little bit of everybodyfrom different demographics and
walks of life, but I really loveserving individuals who are post
college, I would say thirties orso, just because that's such an
exciting time in our lives whereand scary, I think, as well.
It's scary and exciting becausethere's so many new things that
are happening. We'retransitioning off of college in
(13:20):
most situations. You maybe wantto buy a house. Maybe you are
wanting to get married, havekids, you wanna travel and live
life, and you're still havingfun and going out with your
friends and and whatever thecase is, but it's hard to find
that balance.
And so that's where I'm reallypassionate just to show that you
can do both. You can enjoy yourmoney and be generous with your
money, but still working on yourgoals too.
Victoria B. Glass (13:41):
Yes. And, in that phase of life, not so much
the college, but in that phaseof life of, like, okay. Do I
need a new car, a big girl car?Do I need to put it in savings?
Do I need to take that vacationthat I've been wanting to take?
Or you know? So, that is a veryexciting and also confusing time
because paralleling thosethoughts that I'm having is also
(14:02):
the other thoughts about gettingexcited about
that you offer to young peoplecoming out of college and in
that first, I feel like, roundof adulthood is a good way to
kinda put it where you're youknow, maybe you've been on your
(14:24):
own a little bit in college, butnow that you are post it, you're
figuring it out and, you know,you've got those those bills and
things coming out and stuff. Soyour money is being taken in
ways that maybe you didn'treally think when you were in
college that it would go itwould go towards and stuff like
that. So figuring out all ofthose things is definitely a
(14:45):
challenge, but I can see thevalue in having a coach. And
even some of those groupcoaching sessions or group
workshops that you offer, Icould see where that would be
really valuable for someone likeme, so I'm gonna have to look
into to that a little bit more.
When I was looking up more aboutyou and, like, reading about
your background and stuff, Inoticed that you're a holistic
(15:06):
coach, a little bit of a youhave an holistic financial,
approach. And you kinda wentinto that a little bit with the
why behind what you're doing,and you got your day scheduled
out where you can be with your 2toddlers. Can you tell me a
little bit more about how yougot your life structured in that
way, and then why is thatimportant to you to be able to
help other people do that aswell?
Taylor Sminchak (15:29):
Yeah. I would say thinking back to my life
before financial coaching when Iworked in higher education, I
kind of felt stuck in my jobbecause of my debt payments that
I had that I had to still havethat salary, I still needed to
you know work that 9 to 5, 8 to5 job so that I could still do
things with my kids or pay forour house, all those things. And
(15:50):
so becoming debt free reallyprovided that freedom where I
could make more choices. And sothat's why I hope this is an
encouragement to your listeners.Yes, it might not be fun when
you're first getting started onwhatever financial journey
you're pursuing.
I know it's not a sexy topic byany means, but this is your why
of what do you want that life tolook like after, you know, you
(16:10):
make some of those temporarysacrifices. And so for me, from
that holistic approach, I wantedthat balance. I wanted to be a
mom and be able to fill my cupwhen it comes to business things
and being a professional. And sobecause we paid off that debt,
that provided that avenue whereI could make that leap. So I
hope that's an encouragement forindividuals that it might
require some temporarysacrifice, but then you have all
(16:33):
of that freedom, you know, tomake decisions that are in line
for what you value personally.
So and I hope that answeredyour questions.
Victoria B. Glass (16:39):
It did. It did. And I like how, how you
explained that too because it isall about sacrifice. And I feel
like even when you do have yourfinances in order, which I'm not
saying that I do.
I don't. But, I think that Ihave a little bit of a a a good
foot in the right door with,paying off my car. I did that
(17:00):
right away, and, I had tried totake a little bit of advantage
during the COVID stuff with mystudent loans. There was no
interest rates, and I was like,okay. I'm still working.
I'm still gonna pay the like,some payments towards that. If
there's no interest, why not?You know? So I think I try to
think smart in that way towardsmy finances, but I, by no means,
(17:20):
have it under control. However,I do see the value, like I
mentioned, in in gettingfinancial, getting your finances
in order and becoming savvy inthat financial lingo, and I, I
have an interest in that.
And I you know, you keep sayingthat it's not sexy. I think it's
sexy. I think that it really isbecause it seems like when you
(17:42):
really have you know what you'reworking with and you have a good
understanding of what you havein the bank and not in a way of,
like, you know, money, money,money, but in a way of, like,
organized, organized, organized,then you know who you are and
what you can play with if it'syou know, if if you wanna look
at it like that. And I don'tknow if if that's how you feel,
(18:02):
but I've always wanted to becomecompletely debt free. And so
that's always been even since Iwas, like, little, a goal of
mine is I wasn't afraid of theboogeyman, but the commercials
on TV about credit card debt,they got me.
So, I've always, you know, hadthat mixed feelings, but, also,
I think it is incredibly, youknow, attractive to have that
(18:25):
under control, and then also Iwant to be able to feel
confident so that I can approachmy finances with that good
mindset and stuff. So I like theway that you said that you have
to sacrifice things, though,because at the end of the day,
it is about sacrifice. And Ithink, personally, whenever you
do give in a way, that can belooked at as a sacrifice, but in
a way, it also isn't. But whenyou give and when you feel like
(18:49):
you know how much you have togive and that kind of thing,
I've noticed in my own life, itusually it either comes back,
and that's not the reason I doit, but it'll come back to you,
or it'll make you feel moreconfident and that, in a way,
will come back, like,energetically. You know?
So...
Taylor Sminchak: Yeah, Definitely. Yeah. And it's (19:08):
undefined
a confidence thing. I mean,that's really all this is. We're
just trying to become moreconfident when it comes to our
money decisions.
Like, we wanna feel good aboutthe decisions that we're making.
And first of all, congrats onpaying off your car and the
other debt that you said. That'samazing. Yeah.
Victoria B. Glass: Thanks! It was not a new car by (19:23):
undefined
any means, but it, you know, itwas mine, and I've always taken
a lot of pride in having thatunder my belt. I've never had
that over me, but thank you.
Taylor Sminchak (19:34):
No. That's huge. Yeah. And I think it's
just getting a taste of it. Imean, you probably weren't,
like, super excited at thebeginning, but once you got that
taste of how it feels to feellike I'm more confident with my
money and feel like I have,like, a sense of control or I
have a road map that I wannafollow, Like, that's really half
the battle, I think, is justfirst exposing yourself because
a lot of people have anxietywhen it comes to money based on
(19:55):
past experiences or maybe theirparents thought about money a
lot or whatnot, or you just knowyou're in a rough spot and you
just don't wanna look at it.
I think if you're able to ripoff that band aid and just jump
in and get a look at at whereyou're at, I think you slowly
but surely get that taste whereyou're just more excited and
more motivated over time.
Victoria B. Glass (20:12):
I think the hardest part too is admitting
that you care about it. Youknow? Like, I think with you
hear a lot of women especiallytalking about, like, you're it's
rude or not socially acceptableto talk about it. And whenever I
heard that originally, I waslike, oh, I didn't know that.
Whoops.
You know? But, but at the sametime, I think too, it's kind of
(20:33):
nervous to or nerve wracking forme at least to be like, I do
care about getting my studentloans paid off. Like, I don't
want to have that car notehanging over my head. Like,
those things matter. And theymight not matter to everybody,
but they matter to me.
And, so I guess admitting thatis a little bit hard. And then,
also, just, again, stayingfocused throughout the whole
(20:54):
year is I feel like the biggesthang up. But when you said it's
a mindset shift, I you probablyhave already heard this, but one
of the, biggest things that I'vebeen doing in 2024 that I have
stayed pretty accountable withis saying using the mindset
shift to say, instead of I can'tafford it, what can I do to
(21:15):
afford it? I don't know ifyou've ever heard that little
tidbit. I think it came from abook or something that I read a
while back.
But, if any of the listeners aremaybe wondering where can they
start today, like, literally inthe next 5 minutes, then maybe
they could use that little mindtip of changing the way that you
talk instead of saying, I cannotafford this, or, oh, I can't
(21:37):
afford, you know, a drink orwhatever to stop at the gas
station. You know, with to eachtheir own, I would tell you you
can drink water at home becausethat's what my mom told me
growing up. But instead ofsaying I can't afford it, how
can I afford it? So maybe youcan, you know, start calling up
your, list of potential clientsand saying, hey. I've got this
(21:59):
new offer or whatever.
And then once you make the sale,then you can go and get that
drink at the gas station. Doesthat make sense? Is that No.
Okay.
Taylor Sminchak (22:07):
I mean, it makes you a little bit more
motivated. I mean, you work alittle bit harder. Yeah. Like
well and even, like, I lovethat, but, like, I can't afford
it right now. I think instantgratification is something that
I struggle with.
Like, I when I want something, Iwanna buy it now. Right? Like, I
see it on from an influenceronline or I'm driving past
somewhere, and I just, like,wanna buy it. So I think that's
even, like, a huge mindset shiftof, like, let me sit on this for
(22:29):
a second. And, like, do I reallyneed this?
Do I really want it? Becausehalf the time, we'll change our
mind. Yeah. Like, 10 minuteslater, I think it's, like, half
the battle too. But but, yeah,if someone's first starting,
like, if you if this has peakedyour interest by any means, I
think what you really need to dofirst is probably do what I call
a spending audit. And I knowthat sounds, like, super icky
(22:50):
and, like, not super exciting byany means, but it really just
looks at maybe your last month,but realistically your last 3
months and see what are youspending on average in similar
categories. So for example, lookat how much are you spending on
groceries in a month on average,how much are you spending on
restaurants, on fun things,transportation, clothing? Try
(23:13):
and group them to the best ofyour ability. And I know it can
be painful to look at those,especially if you struggle with
a spending problem of any kind,but that's gonna be that
foundation for us to moveforward to create a budget
that's realistic for you, thatworks for you.
That's really what I wouldencourage someone to do first is
to just look through my spendingand what am I spending on
(23:34):
average in different categories,if that makes sense.
Victoria B. Glass (23:37):
That's really good advice and a great place to
start too. So create a spendingaudit and look through all of
your finances and start groupingthem together and seeing where
your money is going. Is thatright?
Taylor Sminchak (23:50):
Yeah. It can hurt. It can hurt. I'm not gonna
lie. It's really ripping offthat Band Aid.
And, again, if someone struggleswith spending problems of any
kind, like, just to see thatnumber in writing of how much
you're actually spending. Somepeople get really upset about
it. Like, oh my gosh. I had noclue I was wasting that much
money on x y z. But I justreally encourage you, hone into
that, and just use that to spuryou along to do the next step,
(24:14):
which would be creating a budgetor seeking community.
Community is really big. I knowwe haven't talked too too much
on that, but just to maintainmotivation throughout your
financial journey is seek peoplewho talk about money. Like,
money does not need to be taboo.Like, similar to what you were
saying. Like, why is it taboo?
Find friends who will talk aboutmoney with you, where you can
(24:35):
celebrate your wins in additionto sharing what you're
struggling with and and pickingtheir brain. So, hopefully, you
have people in your life, ourlisteners, but if not, finding
that community through peoplearound you or I know I have some
community groups as well. So Ithink that's really important to
maintain that momentum becauseyou're not gonna feel like doing
it every day. I'm still on amoney journey, and I don't feel
(24:56):
like doing it every day. And Iwork with people every day on
their money.
There's just sometimes when youjust don't wanna look at your
money or whatever is happening.You know? It's not always easy.
So I think that's really gonnahelp people continue on their
journey.
Victoria B. Glass (25:08):
Well, I will have to keep up with you,
Taylor, for that next, groupworkshop that you do and then
also for one of those 1 on 1coaching sessions. Where can
listeners go to find out moreabout both of those things?
Taylor Sminchak (25:23):
Yeah. So I'm active on Instagram, so my
handle is @Blossom FinancialCoaching, and then also my
website, Blossom FinancialCoaching .com
Victoria B. Glass (25:30):
Awesome. Well, thank you so much for all
of the information today. Didyou have anything else you
wanted to share about yourbusiness or about your journey,
your victory story to being abusiness owner, to getting debt
free? Anything that you wannaadd to share with our listeners?
Taylor Sminchak (25:47):
I think most importantly, just keep going.
Just keep putting one foot infront of the other. Don't jump
too far ahead whether it's inyour business journey or
anything else that you're goingthrough with your money. Just
one step at a time, and it'lldefinitely pay off when you look
back. But I also would love togive any of your listeners a
discount code if they areinterested in scheduling a
(26:09):
clarity session, my 90 minutesession that I offer, so I can
give a 25% discount code ofvictory.
We'll do that. So that way itworks with your podcast. There
you go.
Victoria B. Glass (26:18):
Thank you.
Taylor Sminchak (26:18):
And, yeah, I would love to work with anyone
who is just wanting to take thatfirst step to making money more
approachable where they justfeel more confident about how
they're spending and savingtheir money.
Victoria B. Glass (26:27):
Yes. And all of the listeners, you should
take advantage of that. That isa very generous discount code.
Thank you so much, Taylor. Yousaid victory is the little code.
Alright. Well, if you want tocheck on that, then go to her
website. I will be very muchfollowing up with that. That
sounds right up my alley. And Iknow we don't typically talk
(26:49):
about money over here, but Ithink that as an artist and as a
creative and working you know,you deal with money.
And so just to have thatclarity, to have that
confidence, that is so valuable,especially if you are
celebrating your victories. Youdon't wanna have to celebrate
one day, and then the next daybe, like, all upset and crying
(27:10):
because, you know, you don'thave the the funds that you
thought you did or whatever. So,let's all take this time to get
organized, take advantage ofthat discount code, and let's
come back a year from now andbe, like, really, really just
organized with all of our ourfinances so that we can be savvy
with our with our spending, andwe don't have to feel, like, you
(27:32):
know, guilty or shameful aroundit anymore. We can just create
and, live our victory storieswithout any any burdens holding
us back. So thank you.
I'm gonna be taking advantage ofthat code. I really appreciate
it. Genuinely, that's verygenerous. So thank you, Taylor.
Sure.
And thank you for coming on, andI cannot wait to find out more
(27:52):
about Blossom Financial. And andI'll have all of the promo codes
that Taylor talked about in ourconversation today listed in the
show notes. So don't go anywhereexcept to check out those show
notes.
Taylor Sminchak (28:04):
Yeah. Thank you so much for having me on your
podcast. I appreciate it.
Victoria B.Glass (28:19):
Now wasn't that an amazing conversation?
From setting tangible goals tofacing our fears and changing
our mindset, Taylor's advice isnot only practical, but it was
also empowering. It's not justabout getting out of debt. Her
approach applies to managingmoney and reaching our full
potential in all aspects oflife. As we discussed her
(28:42):
insights and strategies, itbecame clear that by taking
control of our finances, we cantransform our lives for the
better, but it's not enough tojust listen to this inspiring
conversation.
We must take action. Taylor'sconversation was a good reminder
that no one can do this for youbut you. So why not start today?
(29:03):
Whether it's reaching out toTaylor for coaching or simply
taking the first step towardsyour own financial freedom by
flipping the script on the wayyou talk to yourself. Remember,
it's how can I afford it?
Scratch the phrase, I can'tafford it, from your vocabulary.
Let's make a commitment toourselves and our futures. As we
(29:24):
wrap up this episode and reflecton the valuable insights shared
by Taylor, remember that it'snever too late to take control
of your finances and transformyour life. So let's continue the
conversation and support eachother on this journey towards
contagious victories. And as wego forth, let's keep in mind the
(29:45):
words of Warren Buffett.
The best investment that you canmake is in yourself. Until next
time. Celebrate the big wins andthe small ones. Bye, friends.
Victoria B. Glass (30:01):
Thanks for joining us for this week's
episode of the ContagiousVictories Podcast. If the show
inspired you to hear your ownvictory story, I'm here to tell
you the world deserves to hearit. Submit it to me on mine at
ToriBlackmo.com. Review andsubscribe if that feels right.
Telling a friend about the showhelps continue his victories to
(30:22):
grow.
Plus, we all appreciate a littlesunshine. I'm Tori B. Thanks for
listening. I'll catch you soon.
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