THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:

Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs

An Interview with Paddy Johnson of the Art Problems Podcast on Clarity, Taxes, and Not Being Boring

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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m interviewed by Paddy Johnson of the Art Problems Podcast about my book Taxes for Humans, a tax guide for self-employed creatives. We explore why demystifying taxes is about more than numbers—it’s about understanding the systems, values, and power behind them.

I share why tax education matters, how it can empower creatives, and how the companion workbook helps put these ideas into practice. Plus, hear real stories from artists navigating taxes and the emotional weight money can carry in the creative world.

Listen and Subscribe Here

In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m interviewed by Paddy Johnson of the Art Problems Podcast about my book Taxes for Humans, a tax guide for self-employed creatives. We explore why demystifying taxes is about more than numbers—it’s about understanding the systems, values, and power behind them.

I share why tax education matters, how it can empower creatives, and how the companion workbook helps put these ideas into practice. Plus, hear real stories from artists navigating taxes and the emotional weight money can carry in the creative world.

Also mentioned in this episode:

03:19 Understanding the Book's Unique Approach

06:37 The Importance of Context in Tax Education

09:32 Breaking Down Tax Myths and Misconceptions

12:22 Empowering Artists Through Financial Literacy

15:37 The Role of Taxes in Society

18:33 The Workbook: A Practical Companion

21:17 Addressing Judgment and Shame in Tax Preparation

24:36 Real Stories of Artists Overcoming Tax Challenges

27:28 Resources for Artists

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:

Link to Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.

Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook

Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings

Check out my program, Money Bootcamp

Get your free visual guide to tax deductions

Watch YouTube video version

Read More

Joe Saul-Sehy of Stacking Benjamins: On Ruining His Credit & Teaching Money Skills with Humor

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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I sit down with Joe Saul-Sehy, host of the Stacking Benjamins Show, for a deep dive into the world of personal finance and the emotional side of money management. Joe shares insights from his journey writing a personal finance book, and we explore topics like budgeting strategies, creating financial systems that work, and learning from our biggest money mistakes.

We also discuss how mindset and emotions affect your money decisions, why community and accountability are essential for building wealth, and practical tips for artists and freelancers managing irregular income. Throughout the conversation, we highlight the importance of defining your financial goals, your core money values, and how having the right support network can help you actually achieve them.

Listen and Subscribe Here

In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I sit down with Joe Saul-Sehy, host of the Stacking Benjamins Show, for a deep dive into the world of personal finance and the emotional side of money management. Joe shares insights from his journey writing a personal finance book, and we explore topics like budgeting strategies, creating financial systems that work, and learning from our biggest money mistakes.

We also discuss how mindset and emotions affect your money decisions, why community and accountability are essential for building wealth, and practical tips for artists and freelancers managing irregular income. Throughout the conversation, we highlight the importance of defining your financial goals, your core money values, and how having the right support network can help you actually achieve them.

Also mentioned in this episode:

06:23 Tools for Financial Management

07:22 Learning from Financial Mistakes

13:07 Navigating Financial Challenges

24:46 The Power of Timelines in Financial Planning

26:30 Defining 'Best' in Financial Goals

33:46 The Emotional Side of Money

44:41 Creating a Sustainable Income Strategy

Takeaways

  • Tech tools can simplify financial management.

  • Budgeting is essential for financial stability.

  • Personal stories of financial mistakes can be motivating.

  • Learning from financial advisors is key to success.

  • The emotional side of money impacts decision-making.

  • Defining financial goals helps prioritize spending.

  • Community support is vital for financial success.

  • Artists and Creatives need to value their work and manage income wisely.

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:

The Stacking Benjamins Show

Joe Saul-Sehy’s Book: Stacked

Join my free class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings

Check out my program, Money Bootcamp

Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.

Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook

Get your free visual guide to tax deductions

Watch YouTube video version.

Read More

Design Spotlight: The Power of Branding, Human Connection, and Creative Strategy in the Age of AI

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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I talk with Reggie Tidwell and Tim Scroggs, the founders of the design agency 40 Hearts. We dive into their journey as designers, explore the impact of AI on the creative industry, and discuss why community and branding matter so much during times of economic uncertainty. Our conversation highlights the need for genuine human connection and the enduring value of creativity in navigating challenges.

Listen and Subscribe Here

In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I talk with Reggie Tidwell and Tim Scroggs, the founders of the design agency 40 Hearts. We dive into their journey as designers, explore the impact of AI on the creative industry, and discuss why community and branding matter so much during times of economic uncertainty. Our conversation highlights the need for genuine human connection and the enduring value of creativity in navigating challenges.

Also mentioned in today’s episode:

02:52 Meet the Designers: Reggie Tidwell and Tim Scroggs

08:38 Creating Enduring Value in Design

11:58 Navigating Client Relationships and Brand Strategy

14:49 Building Confidence as a Designer

17:35 Embracing the Unknown in Creativity

23:55 AI and the Future of Design

29:56 Community and Connection in the Design World

32:36 The Impact of AI on Creativity and Humanity

41:19 The Importance of Intuition and Human Connection

Takeaways

  • The design industry is evolving with the introduction of AI, but human creativity remains irreplaceable.

  • Branding is essential for businesses, especially during economic uncertainty.

  • Transitioning from a beginner to an expert designer involves gaining confidence and experience.

  • AI should be viewed as a tool to enhance creativity, not a replacement for it.

  • Isolation is a significant challenge for creatives, and community support is vital.

  • Understanding client needs is crucial for effective branding and marketing strategies.

  • Creativity thrives in environments that value human connection and collaboration.

  • The future of design will require a blend of technology and human intuition.

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:

Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.

Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook

Get your free visual guide to tax deductions

Check out my program, Money Bootcamp

Watch YouTube video version

Read More

Money Talks: A Conversation with My Gen Alpha Daughter

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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I had the joy of interviewing my daughter, Farrah, about her very first job and everything she’s been learning about managing money. We talked about the excitement of earning her own income, the value of saving and starting a Roth IRA early, and how taxes work. We even touched on the idea of net worth. 

Farrah shared some really thoughtful insights about spending wisely and why she thinks financial education is so important for kids her age (Gen Alpha). It was also fascinating to see how her perspective reflects some of the generational shifts in how we think about money.

Listen and Subscribe Here

In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I had the joy of interviewing my daughter, Farrah, about her very first job and everything she’s been learning about managing money. We talked about the excitement of earning her own income, the value of saving and starting a Roth IRA early, and how taxes work. We even touched on the idea of net worth. 

Farrah shared some really thoughtful insights about spending wisely and why she thinks financial education is so important for kids her age (Gen Alpha). It was also fascinating to see how her perspective reflects some of the generational shifts in how we think about money.

Also mentioned in today’s episode:

00:00  Introduction to Money Conversations

03:12  First Job and Earnings Insights

06:17  Understanding Roth IRA and Compound Interest

08:56  Navigating Taxes and Financial Responsibilities

11:43  Defining Net Worth and Wealth

15:36  Lessons on Spending and Saving

18:05  The Importance of Financial Education

19:08  Reflections on Generational Financial Preparedness

Takeaways

  • Farrah's first job was a significant milestone in her understanding of money.

  • Earning income brings excitement but also the responsibility to save.

  • A Roth IRA is a powerful tool for long-term savings due to compound interest.

  • Understanding taxes is crucial, as they are a personal responsibility.

  • Saving money requires discipline and foresight, especially for young people.

  • Teaching kids about money management can empower them for the future.

  • Generational differences exist in financial preparedness and knowledge.

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:

My #1 Tip to Make Your Kid a Millionaire

Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.

Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook

Get your free visual guide to tax deductions

Check out my program, Money Bootcamp

Watch YouTube video version

Read More

Post Hurricane Helene: Art Problems Podcast with Paddy Johnson

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Today, I’m sharing an episode of a podcast I recorded for my friend and fellow artist Paddy Johnson’s podcast Art Problems, where I talk about the severe impact Hurricane Helene has had on my town of Asheville, North Carolina. I’m also sharing some important information on how you can help.  

Listen and Subscribe Here

Today, I’m sharing an episode of a podcast I recorded for my friend and fellow artist Paddy Johnson’s podcast Art Problems, where I talk about the severe impact Hurricane Helene has had on my town of Asheville, North Carolina. I’m also sharing some important information on how you can help.  

 

Also mentioned in today’s episode: 

  • Details of the studio flooding 5:19

  • Initial flood observations 11:13

  • Post flood challenges and community impact 30:00

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! 

Links:

Hannah's Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/hannahcole1779 

 Asheville Tea Company

Melissa Weiss pottery

The Autrys (food stylists) 

New Stock Pantry

If you want to help the people here, you can donate to the links at the bottom of Arts AVL page

Watch YouTube video version.

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