Brown Ambition

In this BAQA episode, Mandi Money is joined by legendary money expert and Money Coach, Lynnette Khalfani‑Cox, to answer a powerful question from listener Raquel: “I’m 56, I like my paralegal job, I love my podcast, and I know I can’t afford to fully retire… so what does my next act even look like?”

Together, we talk honestly about purpose vs. profit, identity beyond your 9–5, and how to design a “second half” of your career that actually feels good—not like another grind.

In this episode:

• What to do when you can’t imagine not working—but also don’t want to die at your desk

• How to separate your identity from your job title 

• Ways to test an entrepreneurial or creative “next act” without blowing up your life

• Using a podcast or passion project as a door‑opener to paid opportunities • Frameworks for figuring out what you really want this next chapter to feel like

• The three key numbers to know before you pull back from your 9–5 (income, expenses, net worth)

• Why retirement doesn’t have to be all‑or‑nothing (and what flexible work can look like)

Connect with our guest

This week on the show, we’re getting real about the holiday season at the Brown Table because as much as we love the food, the vibes, and a good family kiki, the holidays can bring up a lot. From navigating messy family dynamics to redefining traditions, the hosts open up about what it means to protect your peace, your energy, and yes…your bank account, during one of the most emotionally loaded times of the year.

We break down Black Friday and Cyber Monday (are we still doing this??) and how inflation is shifting the way we shop, save, and travel. We dive into the rise of going no-contact, the pressure social media puts on relationships, and why setting boundaries is becoming a form of self-care for this generation.

There’s also plenty of laughter, a little baking therapy, some real talk about parenting across generations, and a reminder that collaboration will always take you farther than competition—whether it’s in your career or your personal life.

If you’re entering the holidays with mixed feelings, if your family group chat is already on mute, or if you’re trying to grow into your best self while everyone else expects the “old you,” this episode is the one you’ll want to sit with.

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

• The holidays hit differently for everyone—and it’s okay to admit it.
• Traditions can evolve as you evolve.
• Inflation is real and your budget is allowed to reflect that.
• Baking is basically free therapy.
• Social media has changed how we view family and boundaries.
• Going no-contact is becoming a valid, empowered choice.
• Collaboration builds community; competition isolates.
• You’re allowed to protect your mental health, even from family.
• Self-reflection is the gateway to better relationships.
• Therapy helps you hear critique without shrinking.

🎧 Call to Action

• Follow Brown Ambition on your favorite podcast app
• Leave us a review — it helps more listeners find the show
• Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that slowing down is not giving up

Happy Thanksgiving week, beloved BA Fam! As a special treat, I wanted to share a crossover episode with Nerdwallet's SmartMoney Podcast, featuring their incredible hosts Sean Piles and Elizabeth Ayoola. 

We had SUCH a good conversation about career strategies, salary negotiations, and how to navigate this wild job market we’re in right now.

We talked about everything—from how I 10x’d my salary by quitting my way to the top, to why you need to stop being loyal to companies that won’t pay you what you’re worth. We even got into the power of storytelling in your career, building community, and why you should always be taking those recruiter calls even when you’re not looking.

I hope you enjoy this episode and that wherever you find yourself this holiday week, you're surrounded by loved ones and make time to take care of yourselves as well. 

Much love,

Mandi & Team BA