Hi everyone. It's great to have you joining me this week on the Money Girl

podcast. My name is Laura Adams. I'm a nationally recognized personal finance expert and author of multiple books and audio books.

I work as a speaker, spokesperson, and content creator to advance financial education and literacy.

My mission for the show is to give you the information. Advanced Financial Education and Literacy.

My mission for the show is to give you the information, tools, resources,

and inspiration to live rich and love the journey.

You can learn more about me over at Laura D Adams.com.

I'm really excited about today's show because I'm going to give you a step by step

blueprint to follow so you know exactly how to prioritize your personal finances.

This topic was inspired by a great question I received from a listener named Jacob.

He summed up a common struggle that many of us have about what to focus on first with our finances.

So I won't read his entire question, but here's the essence of it.

He says, I'm in my mid-30s with two kids and making a good salary. I have an

emergency fund and some retirement savings, but I'm struggling to finish my budget because I have

so many competing needs and goals. For instance, if I pay

off $75,000 in student loans first, I won't have any money for a house down payment.

I wish that I could fund all my dreams, but I have to make choices. I'm so

motivated, but I need help figuring out what to do first or in the proper proportion.

So which line items should I prioritize,

student loans, saving for a house,

retirement, college for my kids,

or family expenses like summer camp and a vacation.

...