Have you ever wondered how to balance your love for travel with financial wellness? In a recent episode of the Transform with Travel Podcast, I’m joined by Erika Wasserman, certified financial therapist. Erika brings a wealth of knowledge, not just from her professional life but also from her personal experiences.  Erika explains the core of financial therapy: understanding the intertwining of money and emotions. A strong relationship with money offers choices and opportunities, while a weak one can lead to feelings of defeat and helplessness. Erika emphasizes the need for financial education and open conversations about money, which are often neglected in many households. Kelly addresses a common concern – how to save for big trips without feeling financially irresponsible. Erika introduces the concept of a "Yes Plan," focusing on what you want to say yes to instead of feeling restricted by a budget. She shares practical tips like setting travel alerts, flying economy on less busy days, involving the family in saving efforts, and visualizing your travel goals to build momentum and make savings enjoyable. Reflecting on her extensive travels, Erika underscores that travel taught her life's fragility and the importance of seizing moments with loved ones. Whether on grand adventures or daily micro-explorations, appreciating the present and those around us enriches life immeasurably. We talk about: 00:00 Intro02:21 Rapid Fire Questions with Erica03:35 Erica's Journey to Financial Therapy07:25 The Roller Coaster of Life and Financial Control12:09 Erica's Love for Travel18:18 Balancing Travel and Financial Wellness26:02 Choosing Experiences Over Material Possessions26:37 Family Money Stories and Values27:37 Fluidity of Financial Priorities28:16 Travel on a Budget30:34 Communicating Financial Priorities with Partners31:17 Handling Different Travel Preferences in Relationships35:31 Communicating Financial Plans with Family37:34 Setting Realistic Financial Goals for Travel40:49 Understanding Your Money Mindset48:28 Final Thoughts and Life Lessons from Travel Connect with Erika Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourfinancialtherapistwww.yourfinancialtherapist.com Let's Talk Finance Couples Conversations Cards Connect with me Follow the Podcast on IG: www.instagram.com/transformwithtravel  Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelly.tollidayInstagram www.instagram.com/risingnatureretreats Let's Travel Together: https://risingnatureretreats.com  Thanks To Our Sponsor: Byte & Coffee