This week, on Brown Ambition Mandi Money is joined by financial educator and “Your Rich BFF” Vivian Tu for a real, unfiltered conversation about money, mistakes, and the financial lessons most of us were never taught. From navigating layoffs and economic uncertainty to unlearning toxic money habits, this episode is a reminder that financial literacy isn’t about perfection it’s about resilience, resourcefulness, and giving yourself grace.

Vivian opens up about her own journey from overspending in her early career to rebuilding her financial foundation and breaks down practical strategies like negotiating your salary, building credit early, and making smarter long-term decisions. She also challenges the pressure of social media comparison, asking the question we all need to sit with: do you actually want it, or do you just want people to see you have it?

Plus, the conversation goes deeper touching on the emotional side of money, the realities of working parenthood, community support, and the truth that even when things look successful on the outside, many of us are still figuring it out in real time. Because at the end of the day, wealth isn’t just about what’s in your account it’s about alignment, honesty, and building a life that actually feels good.

Key Takeaways:

• You can’t always “budget your way out” of systemic or economic hardship
• Financial literacy = being resourceful, not perfect
• Stop spending to impress—start spending with intention
• Build wealth early (credit, negotiation, education planning)
• Community and honesty matter just as much as money
• Everyone is figuring it out—even the people who look like they have it all together

Stay Connected

- Email your questions: brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com.
- Send a voice note or DM on IG: @brownambitionpodcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax season is here, and this week BA QA, Mandi sits down with TurboTax expert Lisa Green-Lewis to break down what you need to know before the filing deadline. From updated tax credits and deductions to changes that could impact your refund, this episode helps you understand how to navigate this year’s taxes without the stress.

They cover key updates like the increased child tax credit, new deductions for tips and overtime, expanded benefits for homeowners and seniors, and what entrepreneurs need to know about business write-offs and 1099 changes. Plus, a clear explanation of credits vs. deductions and how each impacts your bottom line.

Whether you’re self-employed, a parent, or just trying to avoid last-minute mistakes, this episode is your reminder to get organized, file on time, and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.

Stay Connected

- Email your questions: brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com.
- Send a voice note or DM on IG: @brownambitionpodcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi is joined by Kiersten Saunders and Yanely Espinal for an honest conversation about the real cost of adulting in 2026. From a surprise $2,000 Tesla repair to rising rent and major life decisions, they break down how even the “right” financial choices can come with unexpected expenses.

The episode dives into renting vs. homeownership, IVF and fertility costs, and navigating layoffs including what it really means to accept (or رفض) a retention bonus after cuts at Block, Inc.. Plus, they unpack the risks of going viral in your career and why flexibility might be the ultimate financial goal.

We also celebrate a major win for women as salaries rise in the WNBA, highlighting the ongoing push for pay equity. If you’ve ever questioned your financial choices or wondered if there’s a “right” way to do adulthood this episode is for you.

Stay Connected

- Email your questions: brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com.
- Send a voice note or DM on IG: @brownambitionpodcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.