Merging Into Life

Til Debt Due Us Part: Talking About Money Without Shame

Talking about money with your partner isn’t just a financial decision, it’s an emotional one. Whether you’re dating, married, or somewhere in between, how you communicate about spending, saving, and values can make or break trust in a relationship. Yet for many couples, these conversations feel daunting or even taboo. In this episode of Merging Into Life, we explore why financial transparency matters, how to approach money talks with less fear, and what it takes to truly align as a team. Kiersten and Julien are joined by Dr. Abby Medcalf, a psychologist and relationship expert who shares how couples can use financial conversations to build connection rather than conflict.

Welcome to Season 2!

Nobody hands you a manual for adulthood, but that doesn’t mean you have to wing it alone! Season 2 of Merging Into Life is here to unpack the real questions we all face, from buying your first car to planning a family vacation, and finding the courage to bring up finances with your partner. This season is all about meeting life’s twists and turns with confidence. Hosted by a rotating cast of experts and storytellers, and powered by AAA Northeast, we’re not just talking about adulting, we’re helping you do it better. Meet the Hosts:Julien & Kiersten Saunders – Financial FuturesKim Rodrigues – Travel TransformedZack Klapman – Road ReadySabrina Pierotti – Everyday Mastery

How to host a dinner party

What do you serve? Who do you invite? What’s the perfect number of guests? How do you spark great conversation?We've got the answers with Dana Marie Roquemore, Founder of The Dinner Party. She throws dinner parties for a living and knows how to deliver on food, hospitality, and conversation. There's really nothing like sitting down and sharing a meal with friends family and maybe even a few strangers. So pick a date, send out your invites (eight guests is the perfect number) and press play, because we've got you covered from how to get your guests to show up on time to gently guiding them out the door.ResourcesThe Dinner Party Project

International Road Trip: How to rent and drive in a different country

Travelling to new places is always an adventure, but if you really want to escape the mundane and truly explore you might want to consider renting your own wheels during your time in a new place. But with great freedom comes great responsibility--and possibly some anxiet--around tiny parking spaces, narrow streets and unfamiliar rules of the road.But don’t let that hold you back! Terry Abromitis, aka Traveling Terry, has driven all over Europe, on both sides of the road. She has tips on discovering off-the-beaten-track destinations, avoiding parking tickets and navigating like a pro. Also on hand is Kevin Beresford, President of the Roundabout Appreciation Society, whose enthusiasm for traffic circles has to be heard to be believed!So listen in for everything you need to know about renting and driving in a new country!ResourcesInternational Driving Permit

Big Wedding, Small Budget: Ways to save on your special day

Planning a wedding is a big deal! There are venues, food, flowers, vows, photographers...the list goes on! It’s supposed to be the happiest day of your life, but how do you balance all the stress with the joy of celebrating love?That’s where we come in. Meet Jessica Bishop, founder of Budget Savvy Bride, host of The Bouquet Toss podcast, and author of the bestselling Budget Savvy Wedding Planner and Organizer. She's here with tips and practical advice, to help plan your dream wedding without breaking the bank or losing your mind. Let’s make wedding planning fun, memorable, and totally doable.ResourcesThe Budget Savvy Bride