We trace the real costs of welcoming a second child and how a strict budget turned worry into confidence. From rising doula fees to two daycare bills, we share what changed, what we reused, and how we planned leave, space, and school decisions without losing joy.

• daycare becoming the largest monthly expense
• getting serious about budgeting to pay off debt
• navigating higher medical and doula costs
• planning for feeding costs and inflation
• where thrifting works and where buying new wins
• reusing gear and avoiding first‑time parent traps
• housing trade‑offs and space planning for two kids
• preparing for two tuitions and kindergarten choices
• funding parental leave with PTO, STD and savings
• making room for meaningful splurges within the plan

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Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.