Navigating Financial Freedom on this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast with host Dairy Gal Val and guest Carly Hill

Hosted by Dairy Gal Val (Val Lavigne) – Val is a speaker, panelist, dairy farmer, mom to three and a dedicated ag-vocate for all things Agriculture. She shares online and presents in the Ag community as Dairy Gal Val. See all new podcast episodes here.
Posted on 03 Jul 2024 · 59 minutes
Introduction to Carly Hill
In the latest episode of The Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne welcomes Carly Hill, famously known as Debt Free Mom on Instagram. Val, an enthusiastic follower of Carly for over four years, delves into Carly’s journey of empowering moms to take control of their finances.
Carly Hill’s Journey to Financial Freedom
Living in rural Illinois, Carly transitioned from being a special education teacher to a stay-at-home mom of four. Facing $26,000 in debt and minimal savings, Carly took on part-time jobs, focusing every extra dollar on paying off debt and building an emergency fund. Her goal was to give moms the financial freedom to stay home if they choose, without financial constraints.
Innovative Budgeting Strategies
Carly discusses her innovative approach to budgeting by pay periods instead of monthly. This method helped her manage finances accurately and avoid overdrafts. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, managing social media influences, and finding contentment in one’s financial journey.
Emergency Funds and Savings
Val and Carly delve into the significance of emergency funds and savings, differentiating between them, and handling unexpected expenses without derailing financial plans. They share practical advice for those with variable farm incomes, such as treating savings as an insurance plan, reverse-engineering budgets to focus on expenses first, and maintaining a robust emergency fund.
Tips for Rural Moms
For rural moms, Carly suggests utilizing local free resources like parks and libraries and valuing simple, unscheduled play activities. She highlights the benefits of rural living, such as open spaces and a slower pace, which can contribute to a well-rounded upbringing for children.
Personal Insights from Carly Hill
Carly also shares personal insights, including her love for chips and queso, a dream of living in the English countryside, and a favorite holiday tradition of driving through holiday lights displays in Christmas pajamas.
Follow Carly Hill
Carly’s journey is a testament to the power of strategic financial planning and a positive mindset. Follow Carly Hill on Instagram at Debt Free Mom to learn more about her approach to financial freedom.
Tune in to The Dairy Hour Podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice on managing finances effectively.
Sponsors
This episode runs on WonderCow Colostrum. Visit www.wondercow.com and use code DGV10 to save on your purchase. WonderCow Colostrum is your go-to source for high-quality colostrum products that support overall health and wellness.
WonderCow ColostrumHumanely raised, USA made colostrum supplements for the whole family! Support gut health and strengthen your immune system, bovine colostrum is here for it. We’re also supported by The Barnyard Language Podcast. Tune in to hear engaging discussions on farming, family, and life in rural communities. Stop by and tell them Val sent you!
Listen now! https://pod.link/1688757791