From Divorce to Financial Independence: Leah Garcia on Building Wealth and Taking Control

What happens when life changes unexpectedly and you suddenly have to rethink your financial future? In this episode of Coached Soul, Dr. Steve Hudgins sits down with Leah Garcia for an empowering conversation about women, financial independence, wealth building, and taking control of your financial future. Leah shares her personal journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming financially empowered, offering practical insights for women navigating major life transitions such as divorce, blended families, and starting over. Together, they explore the importance of understanding your finances, overcoming fear around money, creating additional sources of income, and developing a clear spending plan. Leah also explains why financial transparency and having a strategy for your money can be essential when building greater security for yourself and your family. The conversation goes beyond numbers. Leah and Dr. Steve also discuss the mindset required to face financial uncertainty, challenge limiting beliefs, and recognize opportunities during difficult transitions. In this episode, you'll discover: How divorce and major life transitions can change your financial priorities Why financial independence is important for women How to overcome fear and limiting beliefs around money The importance of having a clear spending plan Ways to explore side hustles and additional income opportunities Why financial transparency matters in relationships and families How blended families can create additional financial considerations Why taking control of your finances starts with understanding where you stand How mindset can influence your approach to wealth building Practical steps toward creating a more secure financial future Key Moments: 00:00 Financial differences in marriage 03:41 Discussing Challenges in Marriage 06:59 Single parent empowerment journey 12:09 Handling small things with care 15:30 Financial planning before marriage 19:50 Advice on wedding budgeting 22:19 Importance of life insurance 24:43 Discussing prenups and estate planning Whether you're going through a major life transition, rebuilding after divorce, managing finances in a blended family, or simply looking to become more financially independent, this conversation offers practical ideas and encouragement for taking greater ownership of your financial future. Financial empowerment isn't just about having more money. It's about having the knowledge, confidence, and plan to make informed decisions about your future. Tune in to Coached Soul for Leah Garcia's perspective on money, mindset, independence, and building wealth.   About the guest:  Leah Garcia is a Wealth and Legacy Strategist with The Miliare Group and the creator of The Dynasty Builder approach to financial planning. With more than two decades of experience in financial services, she works with individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and business owners to bring greater clarity and intention to wealth building, protection, retirement planning, and generational legacy. Her approach emphasizes coordinating financial strategy with the appropriate legal, tax, insurance, and estate-planning professionals so that wealth is not simply accumulated, but thoughtfully protected and transferred to future generations.   How to connect Leah :  Website : https://leahgarcia.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahgarciaceo/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Leahgarciaceo   About Coached Soul™:  Coached Soul™ is an empowering podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Dr. Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.   For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/