Money isn’t just dollars and cents—it’s identity, power, safety, and love. In this conversation, I sit down with Marni Levy—Certified Financial Planner turned Wealth & Mindset Coach—to unpack the money stories and power dynamics that shape our partnerships. We talk about how beliefs formed in childhood show up as scarcity, over-independence, secrecy, or control—and how couples can move from friction to teamwork. We explore: What a money story is and how it forms (culture, religion, family modeling) How “opposites” in relationships (the saver vs. the spender) can become yin & yang instead of enemies Why full disclosure (income, debt, credit score) is non-negotiable before marriage—and what secrecy signals A simple framework: Needs → Wants → Allow Fund → Savings (yes, you are allowed to enjoy life) Joint + individual accounts: building together and keeping autonomy Gender roles, patriarchy & the “I can do it myself” trap (over-independence as a trauma response) Mat leave, caregiving, and emotional labor: planning cash flow and respecting each partner’s role Rent vs. buy myths, interest reality checks, and values-aligned planning (adventure and freedom count!) How to set conversation parameters (no blame/shame, stay collaborative) so talks don’t blow up Red flags: chronic avoidance, hidden debt, addictive overspending; green flags: curiosity, transparency, teamwork. Connect with Marni: Marni's Instagram  Marni’s Website Connect with Francesca: Francesca's Instagram Join our FREE Reclaiming Love Community Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue creating meaningful conversations to inspire and empower women all over.