The conversation delves into the challenges and considerations of college planning, including the looming cost of college, the evolution of college, the impact of college reputation, the rise of trade schools, and the importance of flexibility in college planning. It also explores the various college savings and investment accounts available, the role of FAFSA in college planning, and the importance of exposure to career options for effective college planning.

Takeaways

• College costs are increasing drastically, and it's important to plan for the financial implications of higher education.
• Flexibility in college planning is crucial, and exposure to various career options is essential for effective decision-making.
• Understanding the different college savings and investment accounts available can help in creating a comprehensive college funding strategy.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Looming Cost of College
• 05:17 The Value of College Education
• 10:31 College Savings and Investment Accounts
• 15:37 The College Experience and Career Paths
• 21:17 The Utma Account and College Savings
• 26:24 The Flexibility of the Utma Account for College Savings
• 31:34 The Realities of FAFSA and College Funding

Market volatility got you spiraling? We get it. In this follow-up to our recession episode, we’re unpacking exactly what to do when the markets start doing the most. Should you move your money? Freeze your spending? Hide under a weighted blanket? (Maybe a little of all three.)

In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, we talk about how to stay financially steady when everything feels shaky. From investment strategies to mindset shifts, we're giving you the tools to protect your finances and your mental health when the economy starts acting up.

It’s real talk, real advice, and zero fear-mongering—because financial empowerment > panic mode.

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your credit score can open doors—or slam them shut. In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, we’re joined by Stephen Robert, owner of BedRock Credit America, a nonprofit credit repair agency, to break down everything you need to know about credit. From fixing past mistakes to building strong financial habits, Stephen shares expert advice on boosting your score, navigating the credit system, and the changes coming that could impact your financial future. Whether you’re looking to buy a home, refinance, or just get your credit in top shape, this episode is packed with must-know info. Tune in now!

You can reach Stephen at https://bedrockcreditamerica.org/

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, Kelly Turner and Derek Mazzarella tackle the topic that excites and terrifies millennials: investing. From decoding stocks and bonds to understanding dividends and navigating the world of mutual funds, they break down the basics with humor and relatable analogies (yes, Monopoly is mentioned). Whether you're a seasoned investor or still figuring out how to spell "ETF," this episode will leave you smarter, entertained, and maybe even ready to dive into your first investment.

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Millennials love to travel — and apparently, we really love to cruise. Derek and Kelly sit down with cruise expert and travel consultant Pam Sanzo (Pamrock Inspired / Cruise Brothers) for a deep dive into everything you need to know before booking your next vacation. From how to actually save money on a cruise to whether the drink package is worth it, this one is packed with real, practical advice from someone who has been in the industry for 30 years.

They cover what to book early (and why waiting for a deal is usually a mistake), how to pick the right cruise line for your travel style, what NOT to skip on a private island stop, and the travel hacks that could save you from showing up to your ship with nothing but a backpack.

Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode will help you travel smarter — and spend less.

Topics covered:

• Why you should use a travel agent instead of booking online

• Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian vs. Virgin — who wins for which traveler

• The truth about the cruise drink package (the math might surprise you)

• Group cruise rates and what perks you actually unlock

• Shoulder season travel and when Caribbean deals actually happen

• Private islands like Perfect Day at CocoCay — hype or worth it?

• Kids clubs, family cruising, and tips for traveling with children

• Travel hacks: carry-on packing, passport tips, and arriving a day early

• River cruises, Alaska itineraries, and exotic destinations for the bucket list

Want to reach Pam? Here is her website: https://pamroc.cruisebrothers.com/cb/

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Big news just dropped from the Federal Reserve—and it has real implications for your money. In this timely episode of Millennial Money Matters, Kelly Turner and Derek Mazzarella break down the announcement of a new Federal Reserve Chair, Kevin Warsh, and explain what this leadership change could mean for interest rates, mortgages, savings accounts, and the broader economy .

Rather than reacting to headlines or political noise, this episode focuses on how the Fed actually works, why independence matters, and how Fed decisions show up in your everyday financial life.

In this episode, we cover:

• Who the Federal Reserve is and what its two core mandates are

• What a new Fed Chair means (and what it doesn’t)

• The difference between Fed rate cuts and mortgage rates

• Why savings accounts and credit cards react faster than mortgages

• Quantitative easing explained in plain English

• Dovish vs. hawkish policy and why it matters

• The tension between inflation and unemployment

• Why groceries feel more expensive even when inflation is “down”

• How political volatility impacts markets and lending behavior

• What millennials should actually pay attention to over the next 6–12 months

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If you’ve ever felt like Fed news is “above your head,” this episode breaks it down in a way that helps you make smarter decisions about borrowing, saving, and investing.

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for anyone who wants to protect their family, business, and assets. In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, Derek Mazzarella sits down with Aaron Frankel of Franklin & Frankel to simplify what most people get wrong about estate planning and explain how to make smart legal decisions before it’s too late.

We cover:

• The essential estate planning documents everyone needs: will, trust, power of attorney, and healthcare proxy

• How to choose the right executor and guardian for your children

• What probate really is — and why you shouldn’t fear it

• The difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts

• Why every business owner needs an LLC and operating agreement

• When to update your estate plan and how often to review it

• The dangers of outdated beneficiaries on retirement accounts and life insurance

• How to protect your home and assets from long-term care costs

• Common mistakes that tear families apart after a death

• Why open communication about money and inheritance is the best legacy you can leave

Whether you’re a millennial just starting a family, a homeowner, or a business owner, this episode breaks down estate planning in plain English so you can protect your wealth and your loved ones with confidence.

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, Kelly and Derek explore the challenges and rewards of merging finances with a partner. They discuss whether to combine bank accounts, how to handle debt as a team, and ways to set joint financial goals without sacrificing independence. With practical tips and real-life insights, Kelly and Derek help couples navigate the tricky terrain of love and money. If you’re preparing to share your life—and your wallet—with someone, this episode is a must-listen!

Reach out to Kelly Turner at kturner@totalmortgage.com and Derek Mazzarella at dmazzarella@mygfpartner.com

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.