In this Ask Farnoosh episode, Farnoosh kicks things off with a personal story tied to her recent TODAY Show appearance, where she talked about “finance-proofing” your relationship. Reflecting on her own early money talks with husband Tim (over margaritas at their favorite tequila bar), she lays out the keys to financial transparency in couples — from shared goals to individual autonomy.

Next, Farnoosh unpacks several top money headlines:

• Tariff Rebate Checks? A proposed bill would send $600 checks to Americans, redistributing billions in collected tariff revenue. Supporters call it a timely relief, while critics question whether it's a sustainable solution.
• Housing Market Reset: As pandemic-era price surges deflate in places like Austin, buyers may finally have leverage — but high mortgage rates remain a hurdle.
• AI and the Return of In-Person Job Interviews: Companies like Google are bringing back face-to-face interviews to combat AI cheating in virtual screenings.
• The Tooth Fairy’s Budget Cuts: Delta Dental reports a 14% drop in the average payout for lost teeth — a sign of tighter household budgets.

In the mailbag, Farnoosh answers three timely listener questions:

1. How to Prep for a Recession and a Weak Dollar: Farnoosh recommends beefing up emergency savings, diversifying investments, considering inflation hedges like TIPS or gold, and reducing high-interest debt. Flexibility is key.
2. Juggling a Mortgage and Child Care Costs: She reframes child care as a career investment, suggests alternatives like nanny shares or Dependent Care FSAs, and advises delaying large home upgrades until expenses ease.
3. Will My Teen’s Job Hurt Financial Aid?: Unlikely, says Farnoosh. The FAFSA allows students to earn about $7,600 before aid is impacted. Still, she warns that assets in a teen’s name can carry more weight than income.

Farnoosh closes with a reminder that applications for her mentorship program close this Sunday — an opportunity for listeners looking to build a sustainable, personal brand.