Blog
Joe Talks Money
Personal finance insights that honor your values. Let’s balance ambition and impact, making money meaningful in a complex world. Posts by Joe Conklin Shure, CFP®
Taking the Leap: How to Plan for a Career Break Without Compromising Your Future
The holiday season often sparks reflection on what truly matters—family, creativity, or simply rest. With careful planning, you can take a career break without derailing your future goals.
Avoiding the Trap of Too Many Resolutions: The Case for Purposeful Postponement
As the New Year approaches, rethink the impulse to overcommit. Knowing what to postpone can make all the difference in achieving what truly matters.
Why “What’s New?” Is the Worst Conversation Starter (and What to Ask Instead)
When someone asks, 'What’s new?' it often feels like they want to talk but don’t know what to say. Here’s why it’s ineffective—and what to ask instead to spark connection.
The Gift Economy: A Radical Response to Scarcity and Fear
In a world that often feels unstable, true security doesn’t come from hoarding wealth or isolating yourself—it comes from gratitude, connection, and reciprocity. By recognizing “enoughness” and embracing the gift economy, we can build stronger communities and find joy, even in uncertain times.
Income in 2024 Higher Than Usual? Consider These Year-End Tax Moves
An unusually high income year can bring tax challenges, but it also offers opportunities to save and plan for the future. Explore strategies like maximizing 401(k) contributions, charitable giving, and tax-loss harvesting to make the most of your financial gains.
Income in 2024 Lower Than Usual? Consider These Year-End Tax Moves
If your income is unusually low this year, you may have a unique opportunity to save on taxes and boost your financial future. From Roth IRA contributions to tax-gain harvesting, here’s how to make the most of a challenging year.
The Runaway Train Fallacy: Why Fearful Saving Holds You Back
When a financial windfall arrives, it’s easy to fear spending—even when it aligns with your values. By addressing the “runaway train fallacy,” you can reframe financial anxiety into empowerment, blending security with meaningful choices.
Navigating Thanksgiving’s Awkward Money Conversations
Thanksgiving is prime season for unsolicited financial advice, but with the right strategies—like explaining your choices, redirecting the conversation, or setting firm boundaries—you can navigate these awkward moments while keeping the peace.
Financial Harmony in Relationships: Sharing Expenses Fairly and Strengthening Your Bond
Achieving financial balance in relationships enhances mutual respect and understanding. Learn how to contribute fairly and foster open conversations around money.
Embracing the Joy of Spending: A Guide to Spending with Confidence
Spending doesn’t have to be a source of guilt. By embracing mindful spending, you can enhance your life while still achieving your financial goals.
Who Wrote Your Financial Plan?
Are you following financial plans designed to profit corporations? Discover actionable steps to reclaim control of your finances and align them with your values.
Spending with Confidence as a Couple
When it comes to managing finances as a couple, establishing clear boundaries around spending can empower both partners to make confident choices. By defining specific roles for your accounts, you’ll streamline decision-making and foster a more harmonious financial relationship.
Three Unhelpful Questions You’ll Hear When You Start a Business
Considering starting a side business or transitioning to self-employment? This post explores three unhelpful questions often asked in these situations, offering insights on how to reframe them to navigate your journey with confidence and clarity.
How Much Is Too Much in Your Checking Account? 🏦
Is your checking account holding more money than it should? Discover how to optimize your cash flow, reduce financial paralysis, and make sure every dollar is working toward your goals, from emergency funds to long-term investments.
Beyond Sacrifice 💪🏽 Elevating Your Income and Your Impact
Many women in mission-driven fields feel their modest income aligns with their values. However, a $10,000 or $20,000 salary increase can greatly improve their financial situation and help achieve goals like homeownership. Financial planning provides clarity and motivation to pursue fair compensation, empowering women to align their financial and personal values.
Rethinking Home Improvement 🏡 Beyond the Numbers
When evaluating home improvement projects, it’s easy to focus only on potential property value increases. However, the true impact often lies in quality of life improvements and alignment with financial goals. Instead of assuming a return on investment, consider whether the project enhances your daily living and if you’re comfortable with any financial trade-offs.