Tax season doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially when you're armed with expert tips and a solid system. In episode 58 of the Beyond Budgets® Podcast, host Deb Meyer breaks down what parents need to know about getting organized for tax season. From estimated taxes to state-specific credits, this episode is packed with practical strategies to reduce your stress and increase your confidence before the April 15th deadline.

You'll walk away with actionable steps to get your paperwork in order and avoid costly mistakes … whether you're a W-2 earner, small business owner, or self-preparer using TurboTax. We also debunk common myths (like what extensions really mean) and highlight when it's time to call in a tax professional like an Enrolled Agent or Certified Public Accountant.

• (0:35) Extensions ≠ Extra Time to Pay – Understand the April 15th deadline, even if you file late
  
  

• (2:45) Estimated Tax Basics – Avoid underpayment penalties using IRS "safe harbor" rules
  
  

• ( 06:40 ) When to Hire Help – Consider a tax pro if you've moved, inherited assets, or run a business.

• ( 09:30 ) How to Organize Documents – Stay tax-ready throughout the year

• ( 15:08 ) OBBBA Deductions – Why 2025 could be the first year you itemize in a while.

✨ Don't forget to leave a review if this episode helped you! It makes a big difference and allows more parents to get the support they need to build wealth wisely.

🔗 Listen to Episode 48 New Tax Breaks for Parents: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Your Family

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

Bestselling author and branding strategist Mike Kim joins Deb Meyer to share how personal branding isn't just for entrepreneurs. Mike offers real-life tools to help you show up with more clarity & confidence, whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or building something of your own.

Mike also opens up about a recent season of reinvention, sparked by personal loss. He shares how to navigate big transitions, what it means to do work of material consequence, and why slowing down might be your next best move.

Plus, they dive into the evolving role of AI: how it's shaping both our careers and our kids' futures. This is a powerful conversation for any parent looking to lead with intention.

• [0:02:20] Mike's Three Ps Framework

• [0:06:45] How to reinvent without blowing up your life

• [0:07:39] What it means to do work of material consequence

• [0:12:04] The power of "wintering" in a go-go-go culture

• [0:15:01] Intrapreneurship: How to lead and innovate inside a corporate job

• [0:23:10] Personal branding for traditional employees, especially on LinkedIn

• [0:27:30] Wisely using AI in your professional life and parenting

• You Are the Brand by Mike Kim

• Own Your Career, Own Your Life by Andy Storch & Mike Kim (plus free workbook downloads)

• Mike's newsletter: mikekim.com/newsletter

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz

In this candid episode of Beyond Budgets®, host Deb Meyer shares her perspective as both a financial planner and a mom of a high school junior navigating the complex world of college prep. You'll hear:

• [0:00:03] Behind-the-scenes insights from Florida college tours
  (University of Florida, Florida State University, and UCF)
  
  

• [0:04:50] Key admissions guidance from a local high school teacher, including the real impact of essays and extracurriculars
  

• [0:07:15] Early Action vs. Early Decision – what they mean and why deadlines matter
  

• [0:08:30] Ivy League book shoutout: Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be by Frank Bruni

• [0:11:20] Affordability vs. Prestige – how to help your teen build a balanced college list

• [0:18:00] AICE, AP, IB, and Dual Enrollment – comparing academic pathways in high school

• [0:19:00] Florida Bright Futures Scholarships – eligibility, requirements, and cost savings

Whether your child is in middle school or already a junior or senior, Deb breaks down what to prioritize, how to keep expectations in check, and how to prepare without sacrificing your retirement or overwhelming your teen.

• Episode 5: Understanding College Financial Aid with Joe Messinger
  
  

• Episode 33: College Funding Secrets Every Parent Needs to Know with Ann Garcia
  
  

• Episode 55: How Dual Enrollment Saved This Family $60K in College Costs with Shelly Branine

Know a fellow parent navigating college prep? Forward this episode! Sharing Deb's real-world insights could be the spark another family needs to start their own college conversations.

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

Download your FREE guide | Follow us on YouTube | Take the Financial Wellness Quiz