If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, uncertain, or just plain left out of the financial conversation, you are not alone. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Barb Provost and Maggie Nielsen, the powerhouse duo behind Purse Strings, an organization dedicated to empowering women with the tools, knowledge, and support to confidently manage their money, no matter where they’re starting from.

We dive into the unique financial challenges Gen X women face and why so many of us feel like we’re playing catch-up when it comes to retirement planning. Barb and Maggie offer practical non-intimidating advice on how to get organized, how to find the right financial advisor, and why it’s never too late to start building a life that reflects your goals, values, and dreams.

We talked about:

• Why Gen X women often feel “behind” financially and what to do about it
• The most common mistakes women make with retirement planning
• How to navigate money during major life transitions
• Why finding the right financial advisor is key
• How to bring joy, values, and purpose into your financial plan

This conversation is packed with encouragement, truth-telling, and actionable steps. Whether you’re going through a life transition, catching up on retirement savings, or simply ready to feel more in control, this episode will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to take the next step.

For free financial tools and resources and/or to find a Purse Strings approved financial professional, visit:

Website: https://pursestrings.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pursestringsco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pursestringsco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pursestrings/

Financial disclaimer:

A reminder that this podcast is for educational purposes only. The information shared here is not a substitute for professional advice and guidance by a qualified financial planner. This episode is provided on the understanding that it does not constitute financial, investment or other professional advice or services. If you’re looking for help on your journey, seek out a qualified financial professional. It’s important that you have someone in your corner who’s trained, who’s licensed or certified and can help you make decisions for your future, especially when it comes to your finances.

In this episode of Design Your Joyful Retirement, you'll get five powerful journaling questions to help you reconnect with your purpose and chart a meaningful path forward. Whether you're facing an empty nest, nearing retirement, or simply craving something more aligned with who you are now, this episode offers gentle guidance and deep reflection.

These five questions act as a midlife compass, designed to help Gen X women like you pause, reflect, and begin designing your next chapter with intention and joy.

Grab a notebook or take a quiet walk as we reflect on each question, with thoughtful insights to help you explore what’s next.

Download the Free Journaling Guide:

Click here for worksheet

Resources & Links:

• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauriecrawford/
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• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriecrawfordcoaching/
• Learn more about coaching with me: https://lauriecrawfordcoaching.com
• Subscribe to the podcast for future episodes
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more women discover the show!

Let’s Connect:

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear what came up. Message me on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. I read every one!

In this episode, I talk with Erin Levine, founder of Hello Divorce, a platform helping people navigate divorce with less conflict and more clarity. We explore how divorce, especially around retirement, can be a mindful transition rather than a courtroom battle.

Erin shares why some Gen X women are choosing to leave relationships that no longer serve them, how to build the right support team, and why divorce can be the first step toward a life rooted in peace and purpose.

✨ Tune in for practical advice and fresh perspective on what’s possible after divorce.

🔗 Learn more at https://hellodivorce.com/ – resources available nationwide

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellodivorce/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hellodivorce

Erin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlevine/

Find a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst: https://institutedfa.com/