Dear Friends,

Can you believe we’re wrapping up another year? I don’t know about you, but December always makes me pause and think about everything we’ve juggled—and honestly, “juggled” might be too gentle a word for what we do.

This year on Betty’s Smart Ideas, we’ve had some real conversations about what it takes to get through all of it without losing ourselves in the process. We’ve talked about finding your voice when doctors aren’t listening and setting boundaries without guilt (still working on that one myself).

We’ve also talked about the good stuff, like how to redefine what success looks like at this stage, and why we need to stop apologizing for taking care of ourselves first.

The women I’ve connected with this year keep reminding me that we don’t have to do it all perfectly. We just need to figure out what really matters, ask for help when we need it, and stop feeling bad about putting ourselves on the priority list. And those hot flashes and sleepless nights? They’re annoying, but they don’t make us any less capable—if anything, we’re sharper and more confident than ever.

Here’s to heading into 2026 knowing what we’re worth and surrounding ourselves with people who get it!

Thanks for being here,

Betty

Betty’s Smart Friends – THREE, yes 3, New Podcasts Dropped!!

Since our last newsletter, we’re diving into two major life transitions and taking a big leap – all while making sure you take care of yourselves:

Understanding Long-Term Care: Costs, Insurance Options, and Planning for Dignity in Aging

I sat with Jenny Reynolds, aging life care specialist and founder of Graceful Guidance Care Management, to tackle one of the most challenging transitions we face: caring for aging parents. Whether you’re just noticing changes in your parents or you’re deep in the caregiving journey, this conversation offers both compassionate guidance and actionable advice for this delicate life stage.

Menopause Unplugged: Breaking the Silence on Women’s Health with Dr. Sonia Novotny

I excitedly chatted with Dr. Sonia Novotny: board-certified OB-GYN and Menopause Society member, to break the silence on perimenopause and menopause. We discuss practical lifestyle changes that can make a real difference and how to find healthcare providers who truly understand menopause. The bottom line? Knowledge is power, and it’s time we normalize talking about women’s health at every stage of life.

How To Create Meaningful Celebrations Without the Pressure of Perfection

In this episode, I speak with Jaala Sheldon, a luxury event planner who made the bold leap from fashion to entrepreneurship. She gets refreshingly real about the messy middle of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneur and how to price your services without underselling your expertise. Whether you’re in the events world, considering a career pivot, or running your own business, Jaala’s insights on creating sustainable success (without burning out) are a must-listen.

P.S. If you’re planning a corporate event and want someone who brings both creativity and business savvy to the table, reach out to Jaala—she’s the real deal – email me and I’ll connect you!

Listen in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or my YouTube channel @bettyfinancial.

What I’m Reading:

Should I Try It??

I keep seeing these new Starbucks protein powder drinks everywhere. And we all know we think we need protein every second of the day. Has anyone tried them? Are they actually good, or just another overhyped trend I should skip? Please let me know!

Thank You All for Another Amazing Year!!!

I’m just really grateful you’re here. Seriously—your stories, your questions, the real stuff you share about what’s going on in your life—that’s what makes this whole thing work. So please, keep telling me what’s on your mind and what you actually need. Resources? Connections? Someone who just gets it? I want to help however I can. Just let me know what would make a difference for you, and I’ll figure out how to make it happen. We’re all in this together.

Feel Confident About Your Year-End Planning

With just a few weeks (days!) left in 2025, now’s the time to think about any last-minute moves that could help your financial situation, whether that’s tax planning, maximizing retirement contributions, or using up FSA funds before they expire.

I’ve attached here a quick checklist of things to consider before December 31st, take a look and let me know if you have questions about anything that applies to you. I’m happy to discuss any questions you may have, or if you just feel like confirming the decisions we have already made.

Disclosures: BW Financial LLC dba BW Financial Planning is an Investment Adviser registered with the State of Colorado. All views, expressions, and opinions included in this communication are subject to change. This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. We may, from time to time, have a position in the securities mentioned and may execute transactions that may not be consistent with this communication’s conclusions. This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, accounting and/or tax advice. Should you have any questions and/or issues in these areas, please consult your legal, tax and/or accounting adviser.