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Tessa Fontaine: BTS on Writing Fiction: Money, Career, and Why Writing Matters
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This week on the Sunlight Tax Podcast, we go behind the scenes with writer Tessa Fontaine as we explore the realities of building a fiction writing career. We talk about money, publishing, creative community, balancing art with financial stability, and why most authors rely on multiple income streams to keep writing.
We also discuss the deeper purpose of writing—how stories help us make sense of the world, why art matters beyond profit, and what it means to create work that truly connects. Whether you're a writer, artist, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is an honest look at the intersection of creativity, career, and purpose.
“The parts that allow me to feel connected to other writers... that’s not a conversation I can have with many people in my life.”
This week on the Sunlight Tax Podcast, we go behind the scenes with writer Tessa Fontaine as we explore the realities of building a fiction writing career. We talk about money, publishing, creative community, balancing art with financial stability, and why most authors rely on multiple income streams to keep writing.
We also discuss the deeper purpose of writing—how stories help us make sense of the world, why art matters beyond profit, and what it means to create work that truly connects. Whether you're a writer, artist, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is an honest look at the intersection of creativity, career, and purpose.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:10 Introduction to Tessa Fontaine's Writing Journey
03:18 The Role of Income and Writing as a Creative Outlet
04:18 The Joy of Reading and Audiobooks for Writers
06:36 Balancing Practical Career and Artistic Spirit
11:36 Building Community and Accountability in Writing
22:34 The Fickleness of Writing Income and Artistic Freedom
27:54 The Incompatibility of Capitalism and Art
36:36 The Gift Economy and the Purpose of Art
46:06 Why Do You Write? Personal Motivations
50:40 Diverse Careers and Income Streams for Writers
54:29 Misunderstandings About the Financial Side of Writing
01:00:02 The Enduring Power of Art and Literature
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
About Tessa Fontaine:
Tessa Fontaine is the author of THE ELECTRIC WOMAN: A MEMOIR IN DEATH-DEFYING ACTS (FSG 2018), a New York Times Editors' Choice; Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers pick, and best book of the year by Southern Living, Refinery29, Amazon Editors', and The New York Post.
THE RED GROVE (FSG 2024), her debut novel, was named a best book by Amazon Editors’ and People Magazine, and was currently longlisted for the Center for Fiction’s First Novel Prize.
Other writing can be found in Outside, The New York Times, Glamour, AGNI, The Believer, People, LitHub, Creative Nonfiction, and more. Raised outside San Francisco, Tessa is a former professor and has taught in jails and prisons. She co-founded and teaches the Accountability Workshops with writer and pal Annie Hartnett, and lives in Asheville, North Carolina, with her daughter, goofy dog and sassy cat.
Check Out Tessa’s Work:
Accountability Workshops website
Instagram: @accountabilityworkshops
Episode Links:
Check out my program, Money Bootcamp
Get your FREE visual guide to tax deductions
Order my book:Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
My #1 Tip to Make Your Kid a Millionaire
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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m discussing the benefits of tax-advantaged savings for children, specifically focusing on Roth IRA for kids. I explain how parents can open a custodial Roth IRA for their kids, the advantages of Roth IRA, and the importance of teaching children about compound interest and financial literacy.
This episode also emphasizes the long-term benefits of starting early with investments and how this can empower the next generation financially.
“One of the most advantageous things that exists in the U.S. tax code is a Roth IRA for a minor.”
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m discussing the benefits of tax-advantaged savings for children, specifically focusing on a Roth IRA for kids. I explain how parents can open a custodial Roth IRA for their kids, the advantages of a Roth IRA, and the importance of teaching children about compound interest and financial literacy.
This episode also emphasizes the long-term benefits of starting early with investments and how this can empower the next generation financially.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:00 Introduction to Tax-Advantaged Savings for Kids
01:50 Understanding Roth IRAs for Minors
05:28 Investment Strategies for Kids' Roth IRAs
09:05 Teaching Kids About Compound Interest
I hope this 3-part series on investing for your kid(s) helps you understand your options. If you missed the first two, here they are:
2. 529 Plan vs Trump Accounts (you can use both).
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Roth vs Traditional IRA: Does it even matter?
How to fund your IRA: Pay yourself first
Savings for Kids: Trump Accounts vs. 529 Plans
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I explain the key differences between Trump Accounts and 529 Plans, two tax-advantaged savings options designed to help families invest in their children's futures.
You'll learn who qualifies for a Trump Account, how these new custodial investment accounts work, contribution limits, tax considerations, and how they compare to traditional 529 college savings plans. I also break down the advantages and drawbacks of each option, including flexibility, eligible uses, long-term growth potential, and strategies for maximizing tax-efficient wealth building.
“The spirit of the 529 plan is towards education and education savings. And the spirit of the Trump account is towards retirement savings, a lifetime nest egg.”
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I explain the key differences between Trump Accounts and 529 Plans, two tax-advantaged savings options designed to help families invest in their children's futures.
You'll learn who qualifies for a Trump Account, how these new custodial investment accounts work, contribution limits, tax considerations, and how they compare to traditional 529 college savings plans. I also break down the advantages and drawbacks of each option, including flexibility, eligible uses, long-term growth potential, and strategies for maximizing tax-efficient wealth building.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:00 Introduction to Trump Accounts and 529 Plans
02:00 What Are Trump Accounts? Eligibility and Benefits
04:50 Pros and Cons of Trump Accounts
09:07 Understanding 529 Plans and Their Benefits
13:01 Transferability and Investment Options in 529 Plans
17:58 Using 529 Funds for Education and Beyond
20:04 Comparing Purpose and Benefits of Both Vehicles
21:03 Final Tips and Strategic Considerations
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Episode Links:
The Sunlight Tax Podcast EP159: My #1 Tip to Make Your Kid a Millionaire
Get your FREE visual guide to tax deductions
Order my book: Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
Invest for Your Kids: New Trump Accounts Now Available
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down the new Trump Accounts, a custodial savings program for children introduced in 2026. I walk through who qualifies, how these accounts work, how to open one, contribution limits, and the tax rules you need to know.
I also explore the potential advantages and drawbacks of using a Trump Account as part of a long-term savings strategy, how it compares to other options for investing in a child's future, and what families should consider before contributing. Despite the name, these accounts are a good thing.
“Compound interest over time is magic. And when you invest for a child, they have the longest possible time horizon.”
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down the new Trump Accounts, a custodial savings program for children introduced in 2026. I walk through who qualifies, how these accounts work, how to open one, contribution limits, and the tax rules you need to know.
I also explore the potential advantages and drawbacks of using a Trump Account as part of a long-term savings strategy, how it compares to other options for investing in a child's future, and what families should consider before contributing. Despite the name, these accounts are a good thing.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:10 Introduction to Trump Accounts and Their Purpose
01:28 What is a Trump Account and Its Legislative Background
02:52 Eligibility, Bonus Contributions, and Funding Limits
04:15 How to Open a Trump Account and the Election Process
07:17 Investment Strategies and Allowed Assets in Trump Accounts
09:04 How to Use the Trump Accounts and Withdrawal Rules
11:48 Who Can Open a Trump Account and Additional Flexibility
14:56 Next Steps for Building Wealth
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Episode Links:
The Sunlight Tax Podcast EP159: My #1 Tip to Make Your Kid a Millionaire
Get your FREE visual guide to tax deductions
Order my book: Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
Book Curious? The 7 Stages of Writing A Book
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down the 7 stages of writing a nonfiction book and share what I've learned from my own publishing journey. From developing a compelling book proposal and securing a publishing deal to writing, editing, launching, and marketing your book, I walk through the key steps every aspiring author should understand.
We also explore how a nonfiction book can do more than share your ideas. It can help grow your business, establish your authority, attract new opportunities, and strengthen your personal brand. Whether you're thinking about writing your first book or are already deep in the process, this episode offers practical insights into turning your expertise into a book that creates lasting impact.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I break down the 7 stages of writing a nonfiction book and share what I've learned from my own publishing journey. From developing a compelling book proposal and securing a publishing deal to writing, editing, launching, and marketing your book, I walk through the key steps every aspiring author should understand.
We also explore how a nonfiction book can do more than share your ideas. It can help grow your business, establish your authority, attract new opportunities, and strengthen your personal brand. Whether you're thinking about writing your first book or are already deep in the process, this episode offers practical insights into turning your expertise into a book that creates lasting impact.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
04:56 Housekeeping and Personal Update
08:58 Differences Between Fiction and Nonfiction Publishing
10:52 The Importance of Marketing and Audience Engagement
14:59 Steps After Securing a Book Deal
18:11 Long-term Book Business Planning
19:07 Platform and Audience Building
22:03 Market Research and Audience Targeting
22:50 Financial Aspects of Writing a Book
29:09 Book Promotion and Publicity Tours
32:09 Motivations for Writing a Book
33:04 Creating a Meaningful and Impactful Book
35:00 Reader Engagement and Feedback
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Episode Links:
Get your FREE visual guide to tax deductions
Order my book: Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
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