In this episode, Karen Kinney and I discuss our financial backgrounds and how our sensitivities have shaped our relationship with money. We cover topics like early financial lessons, childhood stability, and the role of contentment and spiritual connection in our lives. The conversation also explores the challenges of transitioning from stable careers to more creatively fulfilling but less financially consistent paths. We reflect on the cultural differences in the perception of money between the U.S. and Mexico, particularly emphasizing the importance of community and relational connections.

Karen Kinney is an award-winning author, artist, and speaker. She helps people find greater levels of creative freedom and speaks about inner transformation, the sacred feminine, and the innate connection between spirituality and creativity. Her latest book, Doorways to Transformation: Everyday Wisdom for the Creative Soul, has won multiple awards and serves as a practical guide for spiritual and creative growth. Her debut book, The Reluctant Artist: Navigating and Sustaining a Creative Path, is a respected resource at UCLA and the University of Hong Kong.

Karen’s artwork resides in numerous private collections, including those of Stanford University, actor Bob Odenkirk, and NPR's Guy Raz. She has designed installation work for the Los Angeles International Airport and painted murals in Los Angeles and Mexico. Based in Mexico City, Karen holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago. Explore more at www.karenkinney.com

00:00 Meeting Karen and the Writing Group 00:20 Childhood Financial Background 01:17 Impact of Sensitivity on Financial Habits 01:51 Parents' Financial Influence 02:20 Career Choices and Financial Stability 08:12 Transition from Social Work to Art 13:01 Contentment and Financial Philosophy 20:25 Cultural Perspectives on Money 24:09 Living in Mexico: A Transformative Experience 26:05 The Deeper Layers of Contentment 26:59 The Rat Park Experiment 27:54 Capitalism and Consumption 28:51 Observations of Foreigners in San Miguel 30:40 The Relational Culture of Mexico 33:28 The Half and Half Story 36:19 Money and Contentment 40:08 Authenticity and Creativity 45:36 Money Stress and Future Planning 47:59 Acknowledging Easeful Relationships with Money

Karen’s website karenkinney.com Doorways to Transformation The Great Work of Your Life: A Guide for the Journey of Your True Calling by Stephen Cope allthecolors.net for the Money Archetypes Quiz