You’ve seen the TikToks: “Be your own bank,” they say — using life insurance to build wealth, borrow from yourself, and never deal with lenders again. Sounds like a cheat code, right? In this episode, we’re breaking down what that actually means. We’re diving into the concept of using whole life insurance as your own personal bank, where the hype comes from, who it actually works for, and why it flops for most people. Think of this as your no-BS guide to a trending strategy with a lot of fine print. We’ll cover the pros, the real-life roadblocks, and what you need to know before jumping on the "infinite banking" bandwagon.

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

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

We’re in our “side hustle season,” and this week we’re diving into Airbnb culture with Jessica Starr, a top realtor with LPT Realty and a seasoned Airbnb host who manages multiple properties across multiple states. In this episode, we unpack what it really takes to run a successful short-term rental: startup costs, management tips, red flags to avoid, and how to know if it’s the right fit for you. Whether you’re dreaming of passive income or wondering if this is just another Instagram trap, we’re breaking it all down. Spoiler alert: It’s not just fluff and fairy lights—this is a business.

Are you ready to host or should you just book the stay? Let’s find out.

Jessica can be reached at jessica@starrteam.com

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

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

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

Everyone’s throwing around the word recession—but what does it actually mean? And how do we know if we’re in one… or headed for one? In this episode, we break down the real indicators economists look at (like GDP and unemployment), the not-so-obvious ones (consumer confidence, anyone?), and why vibes sometimes do matter. If you're confused by all the mixed messages about the economy right now, this episode will help you make sense of it all—without the jargon.

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

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

Social media makes it easier than ever to find the latest trends—but is it also draining your wallet? In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, we dive into the impact of social media on millennial spending habits. From viral “must-have” products to the pressure of keeping up with influencer lifestyles, we break down how platforms like TikTok and Instagram shape financial decisions. Are these trends helping or hurting your financial goals? We explore ways to stay savvy, resist impulse purchases, and take control of your spending in the age of influencers.

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

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

Buying a home can feel overwhelming—especially for millennials navigating the process for the first time. In this episode of Millennial Money Matters, we break down the steps to homeownership with our very first guest, Jonathan Archer, a millennial realtor with William Raveis Real Estate. From getting pre-approved to making an offer (and avoiding common mistakes), Jonathan shares his insider knowledge on what buyers need to know. Whether you're dreaming of your first home or just curious about the process, this episode will help you feel confident and ready to take the plunge.

To contact Jonathan Archer-

Jonathan Archer, REALTOR

m860.713.9000

The Margaret Wilcox Team

William Raveis Real Estate

Licensed in the State of CT

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

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

So, you’ve decided to buy a house—congrats! Now comes the fun part: figuring out which mortgage won’t completely wreck your financial future. From FHA vs. conventional to VA and USDA loans, we’re breaking down your options in a way that won’t make your head explode.

Whether you're a first-time buyer wondering why there are so many acronyms or just trying to flex that Big Mortgage Energy, we’ve got you. Let’s talk loans, bust some myths, and make sure you don’t accidentally sign up for a financial disaster.

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

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