Next up in our ‘Meet the Expert’ series is our Director of Education, Kristen Ahlenius, Accredited Financial Counselor, AFC®️. Ahlenius is from Bremen, IN, and has worked for Your Money Line since 2018.

Q: What got you interested in personal finance and coaching? 

A: I grew up around a lot of people who were just getting by but it was more by chance. Seeing how close those in my circle were to true financial stress made me want to be better about money. 

Q: Do you have any pets? 

A: I have two golden retrievers - Kahlua & Mojito (if kids ask they’re “Lulu” and “Mojo”)

Q: What do you love about being a Financial Guide? 

A: I love knowing our team can have a positive impact on not only the participants we serve but on their circle as well. We have the potential to positively impact money relationships for generations. 

Q: What’s your favorite financial topic to discuss/help people with? 

A: Student loans are my jam!

Q: If you gave a 10-minute Ted Talk today what would it be about? 

A: Behavioral finance. If money were as easy as spending less than you make we would not have a debt crisis. You have to understand your relationship with money and your own personality before you can work on your finances.

Q: What’s a hobby that brings you joy?

A: I enjoy working on projects at my house. I purchased a place in 2022 that was pretty dated and making it my own has been a blast! 
Ahlenius contributes to our blog and is also on the Pete the Planner radio show which can be streamed on Apple Podcast or Spotify.