How to Stay Ahead as the Middle Class Shrinks

Building Your Money Machine

Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It!

6:55

In this episode, we uncover the grim details of the Bag Murders, the systemic failures that allowed the killer to evade justice for years.

about a year ago 37:17

MP3•Episode home

Welcome to another pivotal episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling a topic that affects millions of us: How to Stay Ahead as the Middle Class Shrinks. It’s no secret that economic pressures are squeezing the middle class, and I’m here to equip you with strategies.

The middle class, traditionally seen as a foundation of financial security, is rapidly shrinking. From stagnant wages to rising living costs, and the transformative impacts of technology and automation, the landscape is evolving. Many Americans are feeling the pinch, living paycheck to paycheck and grappling with financial instability and stress.

In this episode, I dig into the root causes of these economic pressures. We'll look at how wage growth has failed to keep pace with productivity and rising living costs, especially in housing. I’ll also cover how technological advances are reducing "middle-skill" jobs, contributing to job insecurity and stagnant wages.

In today’s episode, I discuss:

Mastering Financial Literacy: Taking 20-30 minutes weekly for financial education to gain clarity and control.
Building an Emergency Fund: Establishing a "peace of mind" fund covering 9-18 months of living expenses.
Diversifying Income Streams: Developing multiple income sources, like side hustles and investments.
Investing in Long-Term Assets: Focusing on growth assets like stocks and real estate.
Defining Your Financial Vision: Crafting a life vision that guides your financial decisions.
Managing Debt: Reducing reliance on high-interest debt and using debt productively.

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If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more:
https://melabraham.com/show/

Why Your Retirement Budget Is Most Likely WRONG
Life Advice From A 63 Year Old Self Made Millionaire
My Copy-Paste Strategy To Become Wealthy The Lazy Way
Why You Never Feel Like You Have "Enough"
Why You Aren't Investing (and How to Fix It)

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU

If you liked this video, you'll love these ones:

Why Your Retirement Budget Is Most Likely WRONG: https://youtu.be/vrNcnIJxg1c
Life Advice From A 63 Year Old Self Made Millionaire: https://youtu.be/tNhWvaddcjo
My Copy-Paste Strategy To Become Wealthy The Lazy Way: https://youtu.be/5YkAPad2K3g
Why You Never Feel Like You Have "Enough": https://youtu.be/pVrC7zcNxHg

ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK:

The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind.

Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine.

When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE!

TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ:

Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com

430 episodes

How to Stay Ahead as the Middle Class Shrinks

Building Your Money Machine

17 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

In today’s episode, I discuss:

Mastering Financial Literacy: Taking 20-30 minutes weekly for financial education to gain clarity and control.
Building an Emergency Fund: Establishing a "peace of mind" fund covering 9-18 months of living expenses.
Diversifying Income Streams: Developing multiple income sources, like side hustles and investments.
Investing in Long-Term Assets: Focusing on growth assets like stocks and real estate.
Defining Your Financial Vision: Crafting a life vision that guides your financial decisions.
Managing Debt: Reducing reliance on high-interest debt and using debt productively.

RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU

If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more:
https://melabraham.com/show/

Why Your Retirement Budget Is Most Likely WRONG
Life Advice From A 63 Year Old Self Made Millionaire
My Copy-Paste Strategy To Become Wealthy The Lazy Way
Why You Never Feel Like You Have "Enough"
Why You Aren't Investing (and How to Fix It)

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU

If you liked this video, you'll love these ones:

Why Your Retirement Budget Is Most Likely WRONG: https://youtu.be/vrNcnIJxg1c
Life Advice From A 63 Year Old Self Made Millionaire: https://youtu.be/tNhWvaddcjo
My Copy-Paste Strategy To Become Wealthy The Lazy Way: https://youtu.be/5YkAPad2K3g
Why You Never Feel Like You Have "Enough": https://youtu.be/pVrC7zcNxHg

ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK:

Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It!

Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine.

When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE!

TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ:

Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com

430 episodes

All episodes

1
Financial Literacy is The Lowest it's Ever Been (This is Sad) 37:49

4 days ago37:49

37:49

Welcome back to another revealing episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s honestly got me more fired up than ever before: the sad truth that financial literacy is the lowest it’s ever been—even with all the tech, all the YouTube gurus, and TikTok “experts” you can scroll through in a day. Let’s face it—something’s gone off the rails. People still think credit cards are free money. Buying luxury cars with no assets to back them. Racking up overdraft fees, draining 401(k)s, signing onto student loans they don't understand, and hoping for forgiveness that may never come. This episode is about breaking down some of the most cringeworthy and all-too-common financial missteps I’ve seen floating around online (and that my team has graciously pulled together for us to react to). I’m here to break down what should have been done, what needs to change, and how you (or someone you care about) can avoid these money traps. You’ll get real talk, straightforward strategies, and plenty of tough love, so you can sidestep these mistakes—and build your own money machine. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: The confusion around how banking and fractional reserve systems really work How overdraft fees are like stepping on Legos in the dark The real cost of using debt to fund your lifestyle The hard truth about student loans Why “living in the moment” without a plan leads to future stress Protecting relationships by setting healthy money boundaries with friends and family RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ 10 Habits Of The "Fake Rich" You Need To Avoid Life Lessons I Wish I Knew Earlier - Here's what matters most 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: 10 Habits Of The "Fake Rich" You Need To Avoid: https://youtu.be/Ijofyr-YtXY Life Lessons I Wish I Knew Earlier - Here's what matters most: https://youtu.be/CChh8Zd36UI 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth: https://youtu.be/z13QSTIdaW8 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most: https://youtu.be/x8_f0g_EjVE ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
10 Habits Of The "Fake Rich" You Need To Avoid 18:33

7 days ago18:33

18:33

Welcome back to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on a topic that’s everywhere—those “rich” folks we see parading luxury cars, designer clothes, and lavish vacations on social media. But here’s the ugly truth: for a lot of them, it’s not real financial freedom they’re selling—it’s financial pressure. I’ll be breaking down the 10 key habits of the “fake rich”—habits that might look impressive from the outside, but are quietly wrecking people’s financial futures. More importantly, I’ll show you how to steer clear of these traps so you can build wealth that actually lasts and brings you peace of mind. We’re all familiar with the Instagram highlight reels—the Lambos, the boats, the shopping sprees. But what’s really happening behind those flashy posts? Today, I’ll walk you through the red flags that expose fake wealth, how comparison can destroy your confidence, and the disciplined plan you need to stay focused on your own progress. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: How making more money can actually make you more stressed if you don’t have the discipline. The hidden costs of keeping up with the latest gadgets, sneakers, or crypto coins. Avoiding budgets/plans – Why tracking your spending isn’t financial jail—it’s your permission slip to spend on what really matters. The danger of keeping finances a secret (even from your spouse), and why open dialogue is key to wealth. Why real wealth means you can handle the unexpected, not just have the appearance of success. RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ Life Lessons I Wish I Knew Earlier - Here's what matters most 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: Life Lessons I Wish I Knew Earlier - Here's what matters most: https://youtu.be/CChh8Zd36UI 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth: https://youtu.be/z13QSTIdaW8 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most: https://youtu.be/x8_f0g_EjVE Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation: https://youtu.be/RV_kW-ARYok ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
Life Lessons I Wish I Knew Earlier - Here's what matters most 27:33

11 days ago27:33

27:33

Welcome to a very special episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I’m taking you behind the spreadsheets and into the life lessons I wish I’d known earlier—a candid conversation about what truly matters most on this journey to financial freedom and living fully. I get personal in this episode. From surviving cancer—twice—to rebuilding my business after devastating loss, and raising my son as a single, full-time dad, life has thrown me both blessings and curveballs. Each of these moments taught me things about money, meaning, and legacy that I simply couldn’t have learned from a textbook or a balance sheet. If you’re ready for a refreshingly honest look at wealth—not just what’s in your bank account, but what fills your life with purpose and richness—you’re in the right place. Money is never just the goal; it’s the paintbrush we use to create the masterpiece of our life. So let’s dig in together. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why money isn’t everything, but it touches everything—and the real magic happens when it fuels your values, joy, and meaning How you can rebuild from nothing, even after major setbacks Why health is the real wealth, and how my cancer diagnosis completely reframed my priorities The truth about relationships being the richest currency we have—how presence matters far more than profits The power of living life fully expressed, ditching the masks, and stepping into who you truly are Why legacy isn’t about the stuff you leave behind, but about the love, values, and moments you create every day RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: 14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth: https://youtu.be/z13QSTIdaW8 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most: https://youtu.be/x8_f0g_EjVE Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation: https://youtu.be/RV_kW-ARYok 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash: https://youtu.be/wPy-xppyPkU ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
14 Hidden Expenses That Silently Destroy Your Wealth 30:09

14 days ago30:09

30:09

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m shining a light on a topic that’s often overlooked but crucial for anyone serious about building real wealth: hidden expenses that sneakily drain your financial future. I’m breaking down the 14 silent money leaks that could be quietly destroying your wealth right under your nose. These aren’t just theoretical concepts. Many of these come straight from my own experience and from the real-life journeys of my clients. We’ll dig into three main categories: investing leaks, protection leaks, and lifestyle leaks. I’ll walk you through how these leaks happen, and—most importantly—how you can plug them to accelerate your path to financial freedom. On the lifestyle side, I’ll reveal the dangers of lifestyle creep, high-interest debt, car depreciation, emotional spending, last-minute purchases, and more. For your safety net, I’ll share why you must be proactive about negotiating big expenses, maximizing your employee benefits, making smart insurance decisions, and taking your health seriously. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: The 14 biggest wealth leaks—broken down The silent danger of inflation and why your savings alone may not be enough How investment fees and opportunity costs of delayed investing add up to huge losses over time The power of tax-advantaged accounts to keep more in your pocket and less with the government Lifestyle creep: why increased earnings shouldn’t lead to unchecked spending The wealth-eroding trap of credit card interest and car depreciation RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: 40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most: https://youtu.be/x8_f0g_EjVE Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation: https://youtu.be/RV_kW-ARYok 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash: https://youtu.be/wPy-xppyPkU 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement: https://youtu.be/aUhBrFx-NxY ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most 22:34

18 days ago22:34

22:34

Welcome to a powerful and reflective episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on four decades of experience sitting across from millionaires, billionaires, and business owners. I’m sharing the real regrets I’ve witnessed at the top—not the sort about money lost, but the much deeper kind: moments missed and lives only half-lived. Over 40 years as an accountant, advisor, entrepreneur, cancer survivor, and single father, I’ve seen firsthand what genuinely matters when it comes to building wealth. It’s not about accumulating the biggest number in your bank account. It’s about crafting a rich life, filled with purpose, joy, and relationships—not just a rich portfolio. In this episode, I open up about the seven biggest regrets I’ve heard from the wealthy (and nearly slipped into myself). This is your invitation to break the cycle, sidestep the mistakes of “successful” people who realize—sometimes too late—that they chased the wrong kind of wealth. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why chasing a number keeps you on a hamster wheel—and the freedom that comes from knowing your true “enough.” The cost of putting off life’s joys for “someday” How real wealth is measured by your health, time, and relationships—not just your financial “stuff.” Why true legacy happens in the moments you create every day, not just in what you leave behind. Why avoiding meaningful conversations leads to the deepest regrets How clarifying your life vision—before setting financial goals—transforms your journey and creates fulfillment, not just financial results. RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation: https://youtu.be/RV_kW-ARYok 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash: https://youtu.be/wPy-xppyPkU 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement: https://youtu.be/aUhBrFx-NxY How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession: https://youtu.be/xSbRv9BopiA ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation 22:37

21 days ago22:37

22:37

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, we’re tackling a critical reason why so many people struggle to build wealth—even when they know what to do: they rely on willpower instead of automation. If you ever feel like growing your money is a constant uphill battle or that you’re playing catch-up no matter how hard you work, this episode is designed just for you. In this episode, I dive into the truth behind wealth creation: the wealthiest people don’t work harder for their money. Instead, they use systems that put their money on autopilot. I share my own journey—where I stumbled using sheer willpower and how turning to automation transformed my results and made wealth-building not only more effective, but less stressful too. I walk you through the seven critical steps to automating your wealth, from cash flow to savings, investing, debt-paydown, protecting your wealth, optimizing taxes, and growing your income streams. I break down how to get hands-off with your finances using simple tools and modern technology—so you can eliminate decision fatigue, avoid costly mistakes, and remove emotion from money management. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why relying on willpower to build wealth sets you up for failure—and how automation changes everything The five top reasons to automate your wealth creation The seven key steps to automate your financial life Why you should avoid platforms that gamify investing, keeping emotion out of your financial decisions The importance of evaluating your financial automations regularly RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: 10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash: https://youtu.be/wPy-xppyPkU 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement: https://youtu.be/aUhBrFx-NxY How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession: https://youtu.be/xSbRv9BopiA Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40: https://youtu.be/aTOC_lC0CAE ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash 25:17

25 days ago25:17

25:17

Welcome to a special episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m flipping the script a bit—we’re not just talking about cutting costs or scrimping and saving. Instead, I’m sharing 10 things that are actually worth spending money on—even when money is tight. I know, it might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out: some expenses aren’t really expenses at all. They’re investments in your protection, your earning power, your health, and your peace of mind. I walk you through each of these 10 life upgrades—things that don’t just take money out of your wallet, but actually save you, build value, and help you create a future you’ll be proud to live in. From protecting yourself with an emergency fund and health insurance, to investing in new skills, mental health, and even kitchen essentials, these are the game-changers that keep you stable, strong, and moving forward. I’ll share my own experiences—and the data—to help you see expenses in a whole new light. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why cutting every expense isn’t always the answer when money is tight The essential role of a basic emergency fund—and the surprising difference between the Comfort Fund and the Peace of Mind Fund How health insurance, even if it’s just catastrophic coverage, can save you from financial disaster Why supportive, durable footwear is a hidden investment in your long-term health (your knees and back will thank you!) Growing your income by investing in skills, certifications, and education that the marketplace values RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: 8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement: https://youtu.be/aUhBrFx-NxY How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession: https://youtu.be/xSbRv9BopiA Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40: https://youtu.be/aTOC_lC0CAE If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This: https://youtu.be/SO9yQLytMWI ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement 23:28

28 days ago23:28

23:28

Welcome to another eye-opening episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today we’re tackling a topic that’s crucial for anyone looking to retire with real confidence and peace of mind. What if I told you that most people are planning for retirement all wrong? That’s right—many of us believe we’re set until reality hits and the money runs out, unexpected expenses pop up, or we end up living a lifestyle we never truly prepared for. In this episode, I walk you through the eight biggest signs you’re not ready for retirement. Retirement isn’t about an age or a magic number; it’s about lifestyle and financial readiness. I’ll show you how to shift away from chasing arbitrary numbers and start focusing on building a retirement plan that actually supports the life you want. We'll discuss the critical mistakes to avoid, and talk about overlooked threats like healthcare costs and inflation. You’ll learn why conventional wisdom about retirement may be setting you up for stress, and how to make the mindset and strategic shifts necessary to retire on your own terms—with freedom, choice, and security. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why chasing an arbitrary retirement number isn’t enough The power of having a detailed retirement plan Why carrying high-interest or lifestyle debt into retirement is dangerous= The emotional and psychological side of retirement How to “test drive” your retirement plan and stress-test it against unexpected events The invisible threat of inflation RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession: https://youtu.be/xSbRv9BopiA Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40: https://youtu.be/aTOC_lC0CAE If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This: https://youtu.be/SO9yQLytMWI I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens…: https://youtu.be/h4eJqaDas_w ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession 37:30

5 weeks ago37:30

37:30

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, we’re confronting one of the most anxiety-inducing topics out there: recessions. If you’ve ever felt uneasy about market crashes, job losses, or just wondered how you can truly safeguard your money and lifestyle when the economy takes a hit, this episode is for you. I walk you through how to shift your mindset—seeing a recession not as a threat, but as your greatest opportunity to grow stronger, wealthier, and more secure than ever before. With experts predicting a 35–60% chance of a recession in the near future, the time for fear is over. It’s time to prepare and strategize so you can not just survive economic downturns, but thrive right through them. I’ll walk you through eliminating destructive debt, upskilling to become indispensable in any market, and the critical importance of staying the course with your investments—plus why you should only invest in what you truly understand. Let’s get strategic, set your money machine in motion, and design a life that’s resilient, intentional, and recession proof. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why recessions are not to be feared—but to be prepared for and leveraged What a recession really is, and how you feel it before it’s officially declared How to find—and seize—the once-in-a-generation money-making opportunities that recessions offer The seven essential strategies to survive and thrive during economic downturns The five wealth truths that apply in any economy and how to make them your daily practice RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40: https://youtu.be/aTOC_lC0CAE If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This: https://youtu.be/SO9yQLytMWI I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens…: https://youtu.be/h4eJqaDas_w How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You: https://youtu.be/Pg3Y-edj1no ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

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Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40 25:13

5 weeks ago25:13

25:13

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today’s episode is all about the money principles I know at 63—but honestly, I wish I’d understood them back when I was 40. If you’ve ever felt behind, overwhelmed, or unsure whether your hard work will actually bring you financial freedom, then you’re in the right place. I’m opening up about my real-life experience navigating through four recessions, overcoming cancer, and raising my son solo from the age of six. Now, decades later, I’m financially free and living a life that’s truly rich—not just in dollars, but in meaning, memories, and experiences. In this episode, I’m sharing the core money truths that can radically shift how you build wealth and, more importantly, how you live your life. These are the lessons I’d give to my 20-, 30-, and 40-year-old self—the ones that matter beyond just growing a bank account. We’ll challenge the myths around money and discuss why purpose, not just a number, is what really unlocks freedom. I’m not just handing over financial tactics today—I want you to consider what a truly rich life looks like, so you don’t end up with a full bank account but an empty life. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: Why clarity and purpose—not a dollar amount—truly set you free The power of systems: earning, multiplying, and guarding wealth Why growth, not just accumulation, is the ultimate goal The role of generosity in creating a fulfilled and prosperous life How an emergency fund gives you freedom , choice, and confidence RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This: https://youtu.be/SO9yQLytMWI I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens…: https://youtu.be/h4eJqaDas_w How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You: https://youtu.be/Pg3Y-edj1no Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances: https://youtu.be/2OVdRYkxwl4 ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This 20:06

6 weeks ago20:06

20:06

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m tackling one of the most common questions—and dreams—I hear from so many of you: Is it really possible to retire early without sacrificing your lifestyle? If you’ve ever felt trapped in the grind, wondering if freedom is out of reach before that magical age of 65, or worried you may have already missed your window, this episode is for you. I break down exactly what it takes to retire five, even ten years earlier than you thought possible. I’m sharing how to run the numbers, the realities of your spending, the trade-offs you’ll need to consider, and—most importantly—how to avoid the biggest mistake I see time and again: waiting until it’s too late to plan your freedom. We’ll talk about why most people don’t retire “late” because they have to. I use real-life scenarios and simple math to illuminate the path, showing you how your habits, choices, and clarity on your “freedom number” can unlock new possibilities for your future. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: The surprising math behind retiring 5 or 10 years earlier—and how small changes make a big difference Why waiting to plan is the #1 early retirement killer The key questions to ask RIGHT NOW to give yourself more choice, freedom, and vibrant years How to calculate your real number for financial freedom The reality of trade-offs: more time vs. more money, less stuff vs. more experiences How to create multiple streams of income to support your dream lifestyle RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire) RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens…: https://youtu.be/h4eJqaDas_w How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You: https://youtu.be/Pg3Y-edj1no Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances: https://youtu.be/2OVdRYkxwl4 The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending: https://youtu.be/5jBNKRalEOA ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens... 34:33

6 weeks ago34:33

34:33

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most anxiety-inducing topics out there: recessions. If you’re worried about what happens when the economy takes a nosedive or you’re not sure how to prepare, this episode is absolutely for you. I’ve personally lived through four recessions—and as some are saying, we might be on the doorstep of a fifth. I’m here to share what I’ve learned through every downturn, what always happens, and—most importantly—how you can not just survive, but actually thrive and build your wealth during these challenging times. You’ll hear about how panic and fear grip the headlines, how markets crash and jobs are lost—but you’ll also learn how, tucked behind the chaos, incredible opportunities for wealth are quietly created. I break down the patterns that emerge every time the economy contracts, what causes these downturns in the first place, and how you can position yourself so when the next one comes (and it will), you’re ready to spring into action. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: What a recession really is and why they happen as part of the natural economic cycle The four key patterns that always play out during recessions My own experience investing during the 2008 crash and how liquidity helped me come out wealthier on the other side Why recessions are actually a massive wealth transfer—from over-leveraged to prepared, from the fearful to the focused How to keep your cool during downturns and why panicking usually locks in losses RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire) Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You: https://youtu.be/Pg3Y-edj1no Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances: https://youtu.be/2OVdRYkxwl4 The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending: https://youtu.be/5jBNKRalEOA 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire): https://youtu.be/hHObBrzXJ4I ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You 26:24

7 weeks ago26:24

26:24

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! In today’s conversation, I’m tackling a topic that’s front and center for so many of us—how to make money in an economy that feels like it’s working against you. Maybe you’re dealing with rising prices, stagnant wages, or the sense that no matter how hard you work, financial security keeps slipping farther from reach. If you’ve ever thought the system was rigged or wondered why it's so hard to just get ahead, this episode is for you. Here’s the raw truth: tough economies don’t just create struggle, they create opportunity—but only if you know where to look and how to move. It’s all about adopting an ownership mindset, finding recession-proof ways to earn, and being strategic and disciplined with your finances so you can come out ahead. We’ll get into actionable steps for building multiple income streams, cutting unnecessary expenses, and learning how to really put your money to work for you. I'll share key mindset shifts to help you overcome tough times and grow stronger from them. IN TODAY’S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: The critical shift from a job mindset to an ownership mindset How to identify and solve recession-proof problems to bring in extra income Leveraging your existing skills and assets to create value Building your emergency fund for peace of mind and financial security Paying off high-interest debt as an essential step to getting ahead Three immediate action steps you can take right now to start shifting your financial future RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire) Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s How To Save More in 6 Months Than Most People Do in 6 Years RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances: https://youtu.be/2OVdRYkxwl4 The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending: https://youtu.be/5jBNKRalEOA 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire): https://youtu.be/hHObBrzXJ4I Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s: https://youtu.be/g1oU_X1MPMA ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances 34:00

7 weeks ago34:00

34:00

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m unpacking a topic that hits home for all of us: tariffs—and the impact they have on your wallet, your shopping cart, your investments, and ultimately, your ability to build lasting wealth and financial freedom. If you’re feeling like your money isn’t stretching as far as it used to, and you’ve noticed those grocery bills, gas prices, even your Amazon orders creeping up, then you’re not imagining things—and you’re definitely not alone. Yes, we’ve all felt inflation, but there’s another “hidden tax” at play that doesn’t always make the headlines in a clear or unbiased way: tariffs. In this episode, I peel back the layers of what tariffs really are, why governments use them, and—most importantly—how they quietly (and not-so-quietly) drive up costs for every one of us. I’ll explain how tariffs don’t just affect the big companies importing goods, but how those costs find their way directly into your life, from everyday necessities like groceries and clothing, to big-ticket items like electronics and cars. IN TODAY'S EPISODE, I DISCUSS: What tariffs are (in plain English) and how they work How tariffs raise costs on groceries, clothes, electronics, and cars How tariffs create market uncertainty and impact your investments and savings Practical steps to protect your finances from tariff effects Why a real investment strategy is critical in uncertain times Why preparation—not panic—is key to financial resilience and freedom RECOMMENDED EPISODES FOR YOU If you liked this episode, click here to enjoy these and more: https://melabraham.com/show/ The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire) Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s How To Save More in 6 Months Than Most People Do in 6 Years Why The PERFECT Retirement Is Actually A Huge LIE RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU If you liked this video, you'll love these ones: The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending: https://youtu.be/5jBNKRalEOA 5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire): https://youtu.be/hHObBrzXJ4I Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s: https://youtu.be/g1oU_X1MPMA How To Save More in 6 Months Than Most People Do in 6 Years: https://youtu.be/IO4ZRL1B244 ORDER MY NEW USA TODAY BESTSELLING BOOK: Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It! The key to building the life you desire and deserve is to build your Money Machine—a powerful system designed to generate income that’s no longer tied to your work or efforts. This step-by-step guide goes beyond the general idea of personal finance and wealth creation and reveals the holistic approach to transforming your relationship with money to allow you to enjoy financial freedom and peace of mind. Part money philosophy, part money mindset, part strategy, and part tactical action, these powerful frameworks will show you how to build your money machine. When you do you’ll also get over $1100 in wealth resources & bonuses for FREE! TAKE THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM QUIZ: Take this free quiz to see where you are on the path to financial freedom and what your next steps are to move you to a new financial destiny at http://www.YourFinancialFreedomQuiz.com…

1
The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending 31:26

8 weeks ago31:26