updates

The IRS “Hiring” Fiasco: The Least Surprising Development of 2025

I will apologize in advance for any snark that you detect in this post. I try to keep things elevated and fairly neutral, but this latest chaotic development from the Internal Revenue Service concerns me, and I don’t want to dilute my thoughts as I address the issues that I see when it comes to the latest hiring “push” from the Service.

Last week, the Internal Revenue Service announced that it would be hiring several thousand employees as contact representatives and tax examination technicians, while simultaneously getting rid of direct filing capabilities (taxpayers are once again going to have to figure out how to use commercial tax filing software if they want to submit electronic returns). This hiring “push” comes after months of intentionally reducing a number of the employees that were already doing collection and tax resolution tasks. Many of these employees were not at the top of their pay scales – they were fairly newer hires – and now the Service will be tacking on the cost of re-hiring people at the same levels of the ones that were just terminated earlier this year.

If that isn’t wacky enough, it gets even more chaotic. The job announcement for contact representatives was posted on July 29th, and canceled on July 31st. Yes, you are reading that correctly: within 72 hours of posting the job, it was canceled on the federal government’s hiring platform, USAJobs. Why was it canceled so quickly? It’s possible that IRS had already gotten the maximum number of applications they were seeking. But, it’s far more likely that the post was published hastily, and it likely was missing a number of critical details. Whenever I’ve seen jobs posted and taken down quickly, it’s usually because the HR Department was ill-prepared and put up an inaccurate, incomplete announcement (most likely scenario) or the requested number of applications (let’s say, no more than 200 or 500) was received (this is very unlikely). The whole thing smacks of impulsive decision making and poorly completed, rushed work.

Oh, that quickly removed announcement? It was only eligible for certain categories of IRS employees anyway: specifically, current IRS employees, and IRS career transition employees (those were previously fired or otherwise subjected to reduction-in-force actions [layoffs]). So, they terminated people, only to attempt to hire the same folks back, at the same pay rates that they were using before. In summary, this whole game of layoffs and rehires is an expensive exercise in futility.

I also mentioned that there is an announcement for tax examination technicians. That post is still available, but it’s for that same limited group of IRS employees (current IRS and career transition IRS employees), which, again, makes the vast majority of people ineligible to apply. Additionally, the tax exam tech posting was done so hastily that the hyperlinked video on the job announcement doesn’t work at the time of this posting: the promotional video generally provided to potential employees isn’t even viewable! All of this smacks of rush work and poor execution from IRS. And of course, the tax exam tech job caps at roughly $60,000, with no telework or remote work options, and the expectation of developing into a technical advisor, classroom instructor or on-the-job trainer (with no additional pay: you’d be getting the same compensation as someone that didn’t train fellow employees).

I’ve seen disorganized hiring efforts before, but this one has to be one of the most comical, considering how the IRS wants to hire back the same people that were unceremoniously discarded several months ago. If I was one of those terminated employees, this game of “keep away” that IRS is playing with people’s livelihoods would completely turn me off to working for them again. However, for those that decide that they want to try it again, and find a way to make these games work for them . . . I have some strategies coming for you later this week. Make sure to come back so I can explain exactly how to WIN while working an IRS job. I’ll talk to you all soon!

Entering My Opulent Era

This is slightly related to the subject of this blog so I figured I’d share.

Today is my birthday. I’m writing this ahead of time, since I’ll be overseas and practicing what I preach.

I’ve mentioned before how I’ve grown weary of the practical (boring) advice that is often offered by financial gurus. I am DONE with promoting austerity as the path to wealth, and I will no longer deny myself pleasure that adds depth and color to my existence. I believe it is possible to live luxuriously while also being wise with money. In fact, I’d argue that (for me) the only reason to be responsible with money is to enjoy the luxuries that money can buy. I may forgo ordering takeout to save up for a pair of Ralph and Russo shoes, or I may decide to stay home and read a book instead of blowing my quarterly massage budget on a night out with friends. Whatever the case is, I may opt for the responsible, “boring” choice, but only if it puts me in line for the luxury I really desire.

I have no interest in denying myself every pleasure, just so I can see a certain amount in my bank account. Yes, I believe in saving for rainy days and old age, but I also believe in leaving room for fun NOW! I don’t want a life where I’m not having fun: I want a life that is juicy, exquisite, and delightful from beginning to the very end. That is why I’m declaring this my Opulent Era. I require opulence in everything I do: my meals, my home, my hobbies, my travel, everything. If opulence means sacrificing the less interesting things, I’m happy to do it. I’m no longer interested in living a dull life JUST so I can have more money in an account. I want to LIVE (still responsibly, but not miserly!)

I’m committing to incorporating more opulence into my daily life. If that interests you, then stay tuned, because I’ll be sharing more of those opulent experiences here. I look forward to taking you all on this opulent adventure with me!

Posing at the Edinburgh Airport

Why I’m Diving Deeper into Tax Law Right Now

Sometimes legacy work calls you into new terrain.

Or, more accurately, into old terrain with fresh urgency.

I’ve described myself as a tax alchemist, someone who reads and interprets codes and designs wealth strategies that are sacred and sophisticated.

But in light of recent developments, I’ll be turning even more of my attention to the evolving world of tax law — and I want to bring you along for the journey.

The landscape is shifting

A newly passed comprehensive bill — the “One Big Beautiful Bill” — has introduced sweeping changes that will ripple through tax planning, compliance, and wealth structuring for years to come.

Simultaneously, a recent Supreme Court decision regarding the IRS, the tax court, and collections due process has redefined certain guardrails that taxpayers have long relied on.

Translation?

The frameworks that protect your wealth, your legacy plans, and even your day-to-day financial serenity are all being re-negotiated in real time.

What this means for you

Most people only discover these shifts when it’s too late — when they’re hit with unexpected liabilities, audits, or discover that their previously sound strategies no longer hold.

But in the Aureum Sanctum, we approach this differently.

We stay ahead by weaving regulatory changes into our rituals of wealth stewardship before they become crises.

This is why I’ll be dedicating more of my offline time to unpacking these new legal currents — what they mean, how they might impact your trusts or business entities, and how we can continue to shape them into elegant, protective structures for your family’s future. And, as I uncover crucial details, I’ll bring these insights back to the Sanctum.

The Aureum Sanctum approach: calm, clear, strategic

If the idea of diving into dense tax law makes you anxious, take a breath.

We approach this the same way we approach everything here: with calmness, clarity, discernment, foresight, and the steady reminder that wealth design is both art and architecture.

Together, we’ll navigate these changes without panic — only with precision and the quiet confidence of knowing your financial house rests on solid, beautifully crafted foundations.

What’s next

So expect to see more updates in the coming weeks and months:

  • Thoughtful explorations of the new bill’s most impactful provisions
  • Insights on the Supreme Court’s most recent collection due process decision and what it might mean for audits and collections
  • And practical, graceful guidance on how to pivot your tax and legacy planning strategies in light of it all.

Because at the end of the day, my mission remains unchanged:

To help you build wealth that is elegant, enduring, and exquisitely aligned with the life you’re here to live — no matter what the laws of the land decide to rearrange.

Can’t Be Disciplined? Try Being Devoted.

In exploring paths to prosperity, I’ve been diving deeper into the habits and practices that can contribute to sustainable riches and a delicious life. With the advent of AI and other automation tools and technology, there are more paths to wealth than ever before!

Of course, in the path to wealth, there are as many hinderances as there are opportunities. Knowledge gaps, lack of time, inadequate resources, and a number of other stumbling blocks present significant challenges to people attempting to reach their financial goals. But, even in the absence of barriers, some people still struggle with reaching their financial goals. What gives?

I suspect that the main issue that some people have is that they struggle with being “disciplined”. They aren’t able to commit to hard (or easy) actions on a regular, consistent basis. This is similar to the aversion some people have to the term “budget” (which I’ve discussed in a previous post). They find themselves easily discouraged when they are inconvenienced or misdirected from their path. Also, “discipline” as a concept may feel uncomfortable. It may trigger emotions like inferiority, shame, frustration, or inadequacy, especially in cases where the figures from their childhoods that embodied “discipline” were harsh, critical or not particularly nurturing (insert caregiver trauma here).

In the spirit of redefining personal finance, perhaps a new term is the best solution. Perhaps, instead of “discipline”, we can try framing this dedication as devotion. Much like religious adherents that love the sacrifice that comes with their service, we can view our consistent actions as an act of devotion to our future selves and the future reality that awaits us if we just stay the course.

When discussing wealth generation strategies, most of the conversations tend to glamorize quick wins over the long game. The myth of “Sudden Wealth” is a pervasive one, and, by focusing on fast money, anything that occurs in the inverse (such as quiet, incremental growth) is seen as boring, difficult and unsatisfying. Including the topic of “discipline” in these conversations just further highlights the disdain many people have towards consistent work. However, when reframed as devotion, the conversation takes on a very different energy. The quiet power that comes from incremental devotion isn’t boring, it’s mysterious; it isn’t difficult, it’s an exhilarating experiment. Incremental devotion isn’t unsatisfying: it’s a fire that grows from a flicker to an inferno. Like compound interest that grows over time, incremental steps rooted in devotion to our future selves are small at the beginning but become monumental over time. The route of incremental devotion eliminates the need for intensity, since consistency and time do most of the heavy lifting.

Speaking of the “boring” and unappealing nature of discipline . . . Discipline tends to be associated with rigidity, and most people are averse to anything too rigid. On the other hand, devotion can be fluid and even sensual: it’s easy to take a necessary task and add elements of beautiful rituals to it. One of my favorite ways to make my devotion feel more like a ritual is to set up my desk before working on anything related to business. I usually light a gorgeous scented candle, put on a piece of jewelry or an article of clothing that symbolizes what I’m working on (as I type this, I’m wearing a soft red top that always makes me feel divine and polished), and put on some music that matches the mood I want to invoke (rainforest sounds, gentle chimes, success subliminals, and classical music are great places to start). The most important part of connecting rituals to devotion is to treat the task as something sacred and nonnegotiable, which are terms that can also be used to describe (you guessed it) discipline.

At the heart of devotion is a positive feeling of self worth. Even the most perfect plans and the most disciplined person will abandon their work if their don’t believe they are truly worthy of the goal they desire. Staying devoted is easier to do when you feel worthy of the wealth, ease and abundance you’re creating. Daily affirmations, mirror work, journaling, and other self concept practices can help with identity shifting. From that newly shifted space, it is much easier to stay devoted and cultivate consistent practices that will create the life you desire.

When I began this conversation, I stated how there are more opportunities to build wealth than ever before. However, along with opportunity comes another issue. The same internet that provides wealth-building access also floods us with distractions, comparison traps, and “shiny object syndrome.” And, unfortunately, discipline “punishes” us for falling into distraction, instead of gently refocusing us and encouraging us. Devotion requires discernment — staying loyal to your path and not being seduced by every new tactic, course, or platform. While discernment may take some time and experience to develop, devotion doesn’t have the harshness of a stern disciplinarian: it warmly invites us to return to our goals sooner rather than later.

Following the path of devotion has been a sweeter experience than the road of discipline. I invite you all to try devotion instead of discipline, and let me know how it works for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Personal Finance Needs a Rebrand

I took a long break from blogging so that I could get clear on the message I needed to share. And that time away crystallized one persistent truth that I couldn’t shake: there were a lot of concepts and theories that were outdated, and the way that personal finance is approached no longer resonates with many people. In short, personal finance is in desperate need of a rebrand. Many of the existing terms and concepts worked well for the world we used to occupy, but things are changing lightning fast , and we need to reconsider whether the old framework – and all of the perspectives that come with it – still works for us.

Humans are returning to traditional ways of self governance. The idea that anyone (everyone!) outside of us knows the best way to do things is antiquated. We are leaving behind the idea that we have to blindly trust someone else’s point of view, and learning to listen to our intuition again. We’re allowing true heart desires, natural cycles and close social connections to guide us in our financial decision making. We aren’t convinced that someone else’s financial approach is best simply because they have more credentials than us: we are finally mastering the art of taking what works and leaving the rest.

Unfortunately, what many of us are finding is that most of the financial advice being offered falls into the category of “the rest to be left behind”. In short, personal finance, as we know it, is based on a model that doesn’t work as well as it used to. The old ways can and do still work, but people (particularly women) want MORE from their personal finance experience. They don’t solely idolize the end goal of financial freedom, security or impact: they also want to enjoy the process of getting to their goals. They finally understand that the journey can, and should, be just as delightful as the destination. And they are not accepting any financial approach that doesn’t allow for joy in the meantime.

That means, advice about eliminating avocado toast and happy hour drinks will fall flat. Any advice that encourages picking up another job, when you’re already exhausted from your main career, is tone deaf and a bit demeaning. Anyone with a little discernment can see that there’s no amount of trimming creature comforts that will completely reverse your financial fortune within 60 or 90 days. Sacrificing your rest for a secondary job that pays little but adds extra stress and expenses isn’t worth it. Advice that centers on removing what delights us and adding more complications will always cause us to recoil and subconsciously reject those recommendations. Trying to follow this advice rarely works when we remove joy and replace it with austerity.

Personal finance is in sore need of a rebrand. There is a better way, and I know, because I’m living it. I’m here to bring something better, something fresh, something . . . divinely aligned. Are you ready for this journey? I hope you’ll join me.

Everything I will be sharing has already been tested by me. So I’ll not only be able to explain these approaches that I’m proposing, but I’ll also be sharing my own outcomes from implementing these practices. If you’d like a sneak peek into some of my practices, then make sure to like my Facebook page (click here) so you’ll be notified when I go live on June 18th, to show you my Seasonal Reset practice.

I’m so excited to share my discoveries with you! Stay tuned: I’ll be back soon to start the discussion. I look forward to hearing your thoughts!

2025 Has Been Monumental: Are You Ready to Finish STRONG?

As we step into the second half of this year, we have incredible opportunities ahead of us, if we prepare and take decisive action.

I have been working on a few projects (as usual) and that has taken more of my time than expected. There was a lot of preparation needed before I entered the upcoming year, because I was determined to WIN BIG in 2025. That preparation, and the subsequent execution of relevant tasks, took more time and effort than expected. However, things are now set in motion, and I’m so ready to share what I’ve been working on with you all!

If the changes we’ve experienced during the past few months feel uncomfortable, take heart. There is no need to feel scared or pessimistic about the future because there are ALWAYS winners (no matter what’s happening in the world) and you can position yourself to be one of them. Change is inevitable, but pivoting and innovating as you go can help ensure that you’re insulated from the discomfort that comes with those changes. In this space, I won’t be spreading the gospel of lack, fear or scarcity. If you are unsure what to do next, here’s hoping this post will help you.

First of all, let’s remember that 99% of life is a mental game. Making the decision that this year will be incredible is the first step in actualizing a beautiful, enjoyable experience regardless of what’s happening on the world stage. So many people set themselves up for disappointment by cursing their lives: they utter misery, fear, lack, and pain over themselves, then wonder why things aren’t working out for them. Start blessing your life by speaking good things and sincerely believing that your life WILL be good (because it will!). Affirm goodness and prosperity daily – hourly, even – and only choose to consume information that reflects goodness and prosperity back to you. It’s not naive to focus on silver linings; you can be aware of what’s happening around you and STILL have a personal world that is brimming with joy, peace, prosperity, love and hope. If you’ve been focusing on the worst that the world has to offer, then changing your focus should be a relief. And, if not, remember: focusing on the problems didn’t make the problems disappear. So why not choose to put the bulk of your energy elsewhere? Additionally, you are better poised to create solutions when you put some distance between yourself and the problem. Changing your focus often results in a clearer mind and better problem-solving abilities.

Secondly, make a plan that supports the vision you have for your life. Take some time with a journal, and write down whatever lights you up. Capture ALL of the details and desires of your heart, and leave nothing unwritten. If you don’t enjoy writing, make a voice note and talk through it, or use voice typing within a word processing software to capture your thoughts. Get the vision CLEAR so that the plan you need to implement is obvious to you. (A little tip: if your vision only consists of possessing a certain dollar amount, I encourage you to dig deeper and find a more compelling inspiration for the life you want to lead.)

You’ll know that your vision has been crystallized when it feels compelling. You need a vision that will get you out of bed when everything else makes you want to stay in place and sleep through your life. A vision that compels you will make you take bold actions, and will be a guiding star that navigates you out of whatever circumstances you’re currently experiencing. Your vision will keep you motivated and focused. It will ensure that your steps have more impact, and will prompt you to be a master over your time and energy. I’ve found nothing better for my daily menial task list than a compelling vision that inspires my every move. Whenever I wish to do something less impactful, I remember how my tasks feed into my bigger goals, and I’m energized to finish the task at hand.

I have so much more to share in the days and weeks to come (I have a couple of series that I think you all will really enjoy). I’ve already scheduled those posts, so look out for some great chats in the next few days. Thanks for stopping by, and I’ll talk to you all soon!

The Evolution: From Tax Strategy to Ritualized Living

For years, I’ve worked in the world of tax and had incredible experiences. I consulted with a wide variety of clients, mostly international, where I offered feedback on existing systems and proposed policies. I’ve had an amazing time as I mastered my craft, and helped my clients navigate the ever-changing terrain of tax developments.

Me, as a newly married International Tax Auditor

The work was interesting, meaningful, and satisfying. However, there was something in me that whispered gently, “There is MORE“. The only way to clearly hear that whisper – and all that came with it – was to retreat. I had to give myself space to uncover what my soul longed to create. So, that’s what I did. I posted here only when I was inspired, letting alignment dictate the content I shared. But I spent the rest of the time researching . . . experimenting . . . resting . . . meditating . . . and asking myself what the world needed most from me. And now that the vision is clear, I can finally share it with you all.

Wealth isn’t just about what’s in your account and what’s on your tax return. It’s about how you feel. The way you move, the way you build, how safe you feel within yourself, how safe you feel when money enters the equation: all of these factors are reflections of your wealth. When I got clear on the many ways that wealth shows up, I saw the gaps that exist with current financial advice, and I knew what was needed from me.

The Shift: From Function to Fulfillment

I still love taxes, and financial structures and systems will always have their place. But many of us don’t need any more advice on hustles, side gigs, and job hopping for raises, nor do we need more rules and restrictions to follow. We already know how to work well and follow the rules. What we actually need is more ritual, reverence, and room to receive the lives and outcomes we desire. We are starved for pleasure, deprived of comfort, and in desperate need of replenishment.

So I’m shifting the focus on this space, from mostly tax-specific discussions, to a more intuitive yet still structured approach to wealth building and management. As opposed to some of the rigid advice of the past, this space will explore the ways to incorporate soft structure, daily ritual and connection, and elegant execution into the financial frameworks we navigate. I’ve seen firsthand how blending these concepts creates space for wealth, ease, and peace to flourish in my own life.

The goal of this shift is to create and discuss financial patterns, practices, and systems that soften, heal, nurture and refine us while building our wealth.

Hanging out in the office before meeting up for lunch with friends

What You’ll Find Here Now

You will still find lots of substance, unique perspectives and interesting tax news here. But the energy has shifted to something more comprehensive, and more crucial for this time.

The themes that often pop up when talking about finance – urgency, overwhelm, shame, frustration and pressure – have no space here. We’ll be learning to work with money while incorporating the practices that allow us remain regulated, centered, clear minded, confident and magnetic to the outcomes we prefer. We’ll make the hard things easier than ever, and we’ll do it with grace, style and delight.

On this blog, and in some upcoming special events, we’ll explore:

  • Ritual based wealth tools and strategies
  • Sensory and seasonal approaches to financial planning
  • Wealth inspiration that taps into ancient and cultural wisdom
  • Quiet and impactful luxury
  • Soft power, strategic action and sustainable success

Who This Is For

If you’re interested in finance but also . . .

  • Want systems that feel beautiful, nourishing and full of ease, not burdensome and depleting
  • Feel called to step into more restorative approaches to financial management
  • Are ready to create wealth in a smart AND sacred way
  • Value clarity, elegance and rhythm in life and money

. . . Then you’ll love it here.

Welcome To This New Chapter

The framework I’ll be sharing over the upcoming weeks and months is built on a singular belief that has completely changed wealth for me (I hope it does the same for you, too!)

Wealth should feel like home. It should be a sanctuary, where you are welcomed, protected and restored.

I am honored to share this experience and walk the path with you.

We’ll still have lots of the practical gems discussed in this space. But now they’ll be paired with gentle philosophies, invigorating ritual, and restorative practices.

Welcome, or welcome back. I’m happy to have you join me on this journey.

The REAL Reason Why Your Boss Hates Work-From-Home Arrangements (It’s Not What You Think)

A while ago, I came across an article on LinkedIn that quoted former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, who blamed Google’s tertiary placement in the AI race on work from home (WFH) arrangements. He did go back and correct his statements, admitting that he “misspoke about Google and their work hours”. Schmidt had previously stated that “Google decided that work-life balance and going home early and working from home was more important than winning”. It’s interesting that Schmidt has always equated work-life balance with an obstacle to business progress; those earlier comments align with his (eventually amended) critique of WFH.

All of Schmidt’s statements fall in line with his opinion that remote work prevents business innovation and effectiveness, and he’s committed to sharing this opinion in various ways, on multiple occasions. His decision to walk back a “misspoken” statement doesn’t change the fact that he speaks the opinions held by many business leaders. The general consensus from some of the most high-powered, visible CEOs is that work completed outside of the office isn’t conducive to business growth and innovation. They have drifted away from the attacks on productivity, after a number of studies confirmed that many employees completed more work while at home. Businesses and their leadership teams abandoned the criticisms against WFH that could be objectively verified via data, in favor of one that is more nebulous and qualitative. In the case of many CEOs, the chosen argument is that remote work is a hindrance to innovation.

Here’s where I offer a more nuanced take on the real reason why businesses have a distaste for WFH arrangements. I think there is a not-so-subtle underlying reason why so many CEOs have taken an anti-remote work stance, and no, it has nothing to do with the fact that a select minority of workers are doing the bare minimum on the clock, or that the lack of innovation or collaboration are causing the business to lose money and opportunities. It also isn’t as closely tied to the expensive unused office leases as many (including myself) originally thought. I think this may have been hinted at before, but I haven’t yet seen it explained in the way that I will.

The truth is, anti-WFH sentiments are heavily rooted in an anti-family, and a uniquely anti-feminine, ideology. It is based on the belief that valuable work – with a paycheck as an end result – can only happen outside of the home. Work that happens in the home is perceived as intrinsically less important and not worthy of financial compensation. The ability to do office tasks effectively within the home is incongruous with what our society has taught, which is, things that happen in the home don’t deserve pay. It is an unwritten rule that work that happens within the confines of one’s personal residence isn’t “real work” and should not be directly compensated.

It’s important to remember that most businesses were thrust into a WFH culture before they were adequately prepared for it. And, funnily enough, most of them would have NEVER prepared for it, had it not been for COVID intervening. Business, in general, is considered something that doesn’t happen at home. For many years, it was something that could only happen in offices, away from the distractions of domestic life. Even with the advent of the internet and the ability to collaborate with teams across time zones, there was still a hesitance to implement remote work arrangements.

The reason is not as simple as what we’ve been told, particularly, the stories that have been pushed heavily since 2020. Yes, there were some underperforming employees that abused WFH provisions: most of these employees were ineffective and doing the bare minimum when they were showing up into the office daily. And absolutely, the cost of leasing spaces that aren’t being used regularly is tremendous. That being said, it is unwise to look at this push against WFH and not see how it is tied to the belief that “work” done in your home isn’t deserving of direct financial compensation. It’s downright malicious to gaslight workers – who have been happy, productive and effective while working from home – into thinking that they will somehow be better performers if they spend time commuting to and from a building, then sitting in a cubicle for eight hours.

I suspect that, as businesses try to revert to the pre-2020 way of work, there will be many employees who simply walk away from these jobs and never look back. These employees will figure out how to monetize their other talents and will be able to support themselves through their own online businesses. With their newfound location freedom, they’ll be able to move to places that are more affordable and offer a better quality of life. And then we will see businesses finally start to realize that the innovation that comes from their remote workers is far better than having no employees at all.

It’s Been Seven Months. Here’s What I’ve Been Doing

Hello friends! It’s been a while since my last post, for good reason. I will occasionally withdraw from blogging, so I have time to implement some theories and to get data to share with you all when I return. It’s been my system for a while, mainly because writing a bunch of fluff – just for the appearance of continuity – never appealed to me. I’d rather offer something substantial a few times out of the year, than to share flimsy articles weekly.

So, here’s what I’ve been doing: I created a few more digital products, and I experimented with a few selling platforms. I didn’t want to recommend certain selling strategies without testing them myself. I always do just enough to see what works, and I only go further if I know it’s worth it. Most of them time, it isn’t worth it! But at least I can speak from a point of experience and not just theory. Of course, it takes time to do gather these experiences so that I can report the results back to you all.

Another thing I’ve done is witness the monetization “arc” of several AI websites. Quite a few of the websites I’ve previously recommended are now behind paywalls, and, while I can understand why the developers did that, eliminating limited freebie versions are why many users are turning away. This is always why I think ChatGPT (and other platforms that offer some access at no cost ) will remain dominant: even if the free version isn’t the best, it’s better than no access at all. Besides, with the proliferation of AI capabilities being built into apps and programs we already use regularly, the accessibility of this technology will continue to grow, many times at no direct out-of-pocket cost to the end user.

I joined a business mentorship group, and I found a tribe of entrepreneurs that are regularly structuring and executing 7- and 8- figure projects. It’s been exciting to be in this hub, and I’m thrilled to offer some incredible products, programs and tips to you all in the future, based on the millionaire habits that I’m picking up from my peers.

I’ve taken a LOT of tax training, mainly for the purpose of learning new ways to interact with wealth. It’s fine to learn the basics, but once you’ve mastered those, you have to dive into deeper material. One of the subjects that I’ve spent more time exploring is estate and trust law (and how the tax law applies to these areas). Learning about estates and trusts has been exhilarating, and I’m excited to start practicing some new things with what I’ve learned.

Finally, the past seven months have been focused on synthesizing and integrating what I’ve taken in so far. One of the biggest traps that snare aspiring wealth builders is staying stuck in “learning” mode. Yes, learn as much as you can, but also begin implementing what you’ve learned. The inability to implement what has been learned is often rooted in insecurity: many of us learn what we can then we get afraid of doing something with it. “What will people say about me if they see me doing ABC?” “What happens if I fail at XYZ?” These questions come from feeling uneasy about doing new things and breaking away from the crowd. I’ll explore this idea more in a future post, but please know that, along with learning new stuff, work on your mindset and start integrating what you’re learning, so you can get the results you desire. Affirm your abilities, take a small step every day, and watch your life start changing in no time.

So, that’s what I’ve been doing the past seven months: learning, testing, observing, practicing, and succeeding. But since I’m a woman of my word – I believe in ACTION alongside learning – it’s time for me to share more about what’s happening behind the scenes, as well as what I want to create in my world. I’ll be posting my August – December goals soon, and sharing with you all how I plan to reach them. Please take some time to think about what you can do during the latter part of the year, and what goals you want to achieve. Let’s make this your best year ever, together!

A Simple Way To Get Ideas For Your Business

It’s so good to be back! I will be catching you all up on the events I’ve attended in future posts. For today, I just want to share an easy way to get a little business inspiration.

One thing that I’ve heard from aspiring entrepreneurs is that they feel “stuck” when it comes to their businesses. They either are unclear about what kind of business they should start, or they have a fledgling (or sometimes thriving!) business that they are looking to expand but are unsure which direction they should pursue. If this describes your situation, here’s a little tip for you.

Figure out the industry you want to serve (even if you don’t know exactly what you want to do in that industry). Then, find the think tanks that focus on that industry, and attend as many of their virtual events that you can. One think tank that has lots of seminars in a variety of industries is Brookings Institute, so that’s a good place to start. Most of the big think tanks are based in Washington, DC, so you may want to filter your search down to the online events hosted by those organizations. I attended a think tank event years ago, and within 15 minutes, I had several ideas that could have been easily monetized.

Here’s a way to do this: let’s say you aspire to own a business related to finance (like me!). You can start at Brookings Institute, and sign up for all of their banking & finance events, then sign up for the events being hosted by other think tanks that host finance-related discussions, like Cato Institute and Center for American Progress. If there are no upcoming events to watch, then check out the past recorded discussions. Listen carefully for opportunities: they’re always there, no matter what level of business you feel that you’re on. Make a list of the ideas that come to you as you’re listening, then go back and listen again, this time paying more attention to the flow of the conversation and other details you may have missed while taking notes.

If you’ve come up with business ideas from listening to think tank discussions, I’d love to hear more about it! I’m currently working on one idea that I got while listening in at a think tank event, and I’m so excited to share that with you all once it’s completed!

That’s all for today: take care and I’ll talk to you all soon!