Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson is a business journalist, gender equality activist, author of The Kickass Single Mom (Penguin), and The 50/50 Solution (Sourcebooks) and founder of Wealthysinglemommy.com and Moms for Equal Parenting. A former newspaper and Associated Press reporter, she has been featured on New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, CNBC, Elle, NPR, TIME, O, The Oprah Magazine, The Doctors and many more. Emma frequently speaks on family and gender, including at the United Nations Summit for Gender Equality, Google and a Scottish Parliament council.

Education

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Yale School of the Environment

Accolades

Featured on Parents magazine’s ‘Best of the Web’ awards and US News’ Top 15 Personal Finance Podcasts to Follow’

Expertise in

Digital marketing
Entrepreneurship
Business & Personal Finance
Gender Equality

You're both adults. You each need some money you can spend without asking permission.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Dave Ramsey Says This is the Best Way to Pay Off Debt

Struggling to pay off debt? Dave Ramsey says the popular "smart" strategy could be holding you back — and reveals what actually works.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Rachel Cruze: The Real Reason Couples Fight About Money

Why do couples really fight about money? Financial expert Rachel Cruze reveals the root cause, and how to fix it before it damages your relationship.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

How Do You Know When You're Financially Ready to Have a Child?

Wondering if you’re financially ready for a baby? Money expert Taylor Price shares key milestones, hidden costs, and smart steps to help you decide.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's Why Gen-Z Is Embracing Frugal Living According to Brian Jung

Gen Z is redefining wealth with minimalism and digital savvy. Find out why frugality is their new flex — and what older generations can learn.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The Overlooked Difference Between Your Credit Score and Credit Report

Most people mix up credit scores and credit reports, but knowing the difference could save you money and boost your chances of loan approval.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Why Experts Say a Roth 401(k) Could Supercharge Your Retirement

A Roth 401(k) could cut your tax bill in retirement — so why aren't more people using it? A CFP breaks down how it works and who should consider one.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

4 Moves to Make if You Can't Pay All Your Bills this Month

Can't pay all your bills this month? You're not doomed. Here's how to triage the current crisis and set yourself up for a better financial future.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Frugal Living Expert Michelle Schroeder-Gardner: How I Save Hundreds per Month, One Expense at a Time

Michelle Schroeder-Gardner knows about saving money. Her biggest insights don't come from major lifestyle changes. Instead, they come from these small tweaks.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's How to Build an Emergency Fund Without Blowing Your Budget

Personal finance expert Bola Sokunbi shares how to build an emergency fund without falling behind on your other financial goals.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

How Happy Couples Handle Money -- Even When They Disagree

A spender and a saver can still be a great match -- if they follow this expert advice for managing money, budgeting and talking about finances.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Best Ways To Prioritize Your Savings Goals

Not sure if you should save for retirement or a vacation first? A financial expert shares how to prioritize competing savings goals with confidence.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

One Simple Fix for All Your Budget Problems from a Frugal Mom

Struggling to stay on budget? A financial expert reveals the real reason most budgets fail—and how to finally make yours stick.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's Why You Always Want to Know Your Net Worth, According to a Financial Expert

A top financial expert explains how to calculate your net worth, and why this number can reveal more about your money than you think.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill After a Successful Side Gig

Millions of Americans are freelancing. The extra income is great, but many gig workers get a rude awakening come tax season. Here's how to avoid that.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

6 Hidden Costs of Homeownership That Can Wreck Your Budget

Think your mortgage is the biggest expense? A top finance expert reveals the hidden homeownership costs that could wreck your budget.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Avoid These 4 Common Mistakes When You Get Rich Overnight

NFL vet Brandon Copeland shares how to handle a financial windfall, avoid money mistakes, and build lasting wealth -- before the cash runs out.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The One Loan That's Almost Guaranteed To Deliver Financial Disaster

Payday loans offer fast cash, but at a steep cost. A financial expert breaks down the hidden risks and safer alternatives to avoid the debt trap.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The One Habit Keeping You in Credit Card Debt, According to Liz Claman

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

How To Start Investing With Less Than $1,000

A financial expert explains how to limit risk and grow your money with simple, automated steps -- and as little as $1.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The One Investment Barbara Corcoran Says She'll 'Never Sell' -- and Why

Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran shares her no-nonsense advice on real estate investing, including why she’ll never sell and how to avoid rookie mistakes.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Why You Should Start Investing Now (Even If You Only Have $10)

New to investing? Finance expert Austin Hankwitz shares simple, smart steps to start building wealth, even if you only have $10 to spare.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Key Signs Your Credit Card Is Quietly Wrecking Your Finances

Using a credit card daily can earn rewards or lead to debt. CFP Chloe Moore shares smart habits to help you build credit and avoid costly mistakes.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The Most Common Retirement Mistake, According to an Expert

A financial coach reveals the most common retirement planning mistake, and how to avoid it before it threatens your financial future.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

2 Reasons It Might Not Make Sense to Pay Off Your Mortgage Right Away

Paying off your mortgage sounds smart—but could it cost you in the long run? Here’s what financial experts say about investing vs. early repayment.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Reasons Bitcoin Is 'Digital Gold,' Says Investing Expert

Curious about Bitcoin or Ethereum? Market expert Jan van Eck explains how everyday investors can use crypto to diversify -- without falling for the hype.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Multi-Millionaire Says Timing the Market is Impossible - Here's What You Should Do Instead

Even investing pros failing at timing the market. This expert explains why dollar-cost averaging is a better bet -- and can grow serious wealth over time.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

'5 Ways 'Loud Budgeting' Can Make You Richer, According to Vivian Tu

Finance expert Vivian Tu explains how “loud budgeting” can help you save more, stick to goals and ditch money shame for good.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Questions You Must Ask Before Tapping Into Your Home's Equity

For many homeowners, the equity they've built can be a source for funding their lives. But before you do it, ask yourself these 3 questions.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Mark Cuban Reveals His Formula for Side Hustle Success

When it comes to side hustles, everyone has an opinion. But when Mark Cuban speaks about what makes entrepreneurs succeed, people listen. Here's what he says.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's Why You Need To Adopt New Money Moves at Every Stage of Life

The best money habits for your 20s, 30s and 40s, from saving and investing to debt management, to build lasting financial security.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

A Financial Expert Explains How to Balance Saving and Investing in 2025

A CFP breaks down the key differences between saving and investing, and how confusing the two could be costing you long-term growth.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's How to Set Up an Emergency Fund Without Stress, According to an Expert

Learn how to build an emergency fund that can protect you in a crisis without derailing other savings and investing goals, according to a CFP.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

7 Financial Pitfalls That Catch Self-Employed People Off Guard

Being your own boss is empowering. But it also means operating without a safety net. Here are the money rules for self-employed people, and how to use them to your advantage.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

What the 1% Know About Taxes That You Probably Don't, According to an Expert

Learn how strategies like tax-loss harvesting and asset location can help you lower your tax bill and boost your investment returns over time.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Reasons Gen Z Isn't As Bad With Money As You Might Think

Is Gen Z "bad with money," or are they redefining wealth? Here's why their approach to finances looks so different from older generations.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's How To Be Successful Financially Without Building a Budget

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Ways To Protect Your Money From Inflation, According to an Expert

Worried about rising prices? A market expert shares how to adjust your spending, invest wisely, and protect your portfolio when inflation is high.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

4 Reasons This 'Safe Investment' Isn't Always a Good Bet, According to an Expert

ETFs offer low costs and easy access, but they’re not risk-free. Learn what CEO Noah Hamman says most investors miss when buying into ETFs.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

3 Key Signs That You're Losing Money to 'Lifestyle Inflation' -- and How To Get Out of It

Got a raise but still feel broke? Budgeting expert Allison Baggerly explains lifestyle inflation and how to stop spending more as you earn more.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

I'm an Investing Pro: Here's How To Access Private Equity (Without Being a Billionaire)

Private equity is now more accessible to everyday investors, but it comes with tradeoffs. Here’s what to know before you consider jumping in.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

4 Ways To Avoid Bank Fees and Keep More of Your Money

Tired of overdraft and ATM fees? A money expert shares how to dodge hidden bank charges and keep more of your money.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

4 Top Ways To Spot and Avoid a Scam, According to an Expert

Scammers can spoof your bank and steal your money fast. Learn how to spot red flags and protect your accounts with expert-backed fraud prevention tips.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The No. 1 Mistake Retail Investors Keep Making, According to This Wall Street Insider

With markets swinging, it's easy for retail investors to get caught up in the wrong moves. Here's exactly why smart people keep making the same mistakes.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Warren Buffett Says You Should Invest When the Market Is Down -- Here's Why

Warren Buffett shares why smart investors buy during market downturns, and how to choose the right stocks for long-term gains.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

5 Wealth-Building Habits of the Rich That You Might Want To Adopt

Learn the five financial habits Graham Stephan says make the biggest difference in building wealth and achieving long-term success.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Don't Refinance Until You Read This Mortgage Pro's Advice

Article

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

The Big Retirement Myth That Could Ruin Your Plans

Many Americans believe this retirement myth—find out how it could derail your financial future and what to do now to protect your long-term plans.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

How Long It Really Takes To Get Rich, According to Robert Kiyosaki

Getting rich isn’t just luck or a lifetime grind—Robert Kiyosaki says with mindset, learning, and purpose, wealth is within reach sooner than you think.

Article Video

Today’s Money Expert Answer Day 10

Here's How Much of Your Paycheck You Should Save Each Month, According to an Expert

Forget cookie-cutter rules — here’s how to save the right amount from your paycheck based on your goals, not someone else’s.

Day 1

Dave Ramsey Says This is the Best Way to Pay Off Debt

Struggling to pay off debt? Dave Ramsey says the popular "smart" strategy could be holding you back — and reveals what actually works.

Read Full Answer

Day 2

Rachel Cruze: The Real Reason Couples Fight About Money

Why do couples really fight about money? Financial expert Rachel Cruze reveals the root cause, and how to fix it before it damages your relationship.

Read Full Answer

Day 3

How Do You Know When You're Financially Ready to Have a Child?

Wondering if you’re financially ready for a baby? Money expert Taylor Price shares key milestones, hidden costs, and smart steps to help you decide.

Read Full Answer

Day 4

Here's Why Gen-Z Is Embracing Frugal Living According to Brian Jung

Gen Z is redefining wealth with minimalism and digital savvy. Find out why frugality is their new flex — and what older generations can learn.

Read Full Answer

Day 5

The Overlooked Difference Between Your Credit Score and Credit Report

Most people mix up credit scores and credit reports, but knowing the difference could save you money and boost your chances of loan approval.

Read Full Answer

Day 6

Why Experts Say a Roth 401(k) Could Supercharge Your Retirement

A Roth 401(k) could cut your tax bill in retirement — so why aren't more people using it? A CFP breaks down how it works and who should consider one.

Read Full Answer

Day 7

4 Moves to Make if You Can't Pay All Your Bills this Month

Can't pay all your bills this month? You're not doomed. Here's how to triage the current crisis and set yourself up for a better financial future.

Read Full Answer

Day 8

Frugal Living Expert Michelle Schroeder-Gardner: How I Save Hundreds per Month, One Expense at a Time

Michelle Schroeder-Gardner knows about saving money. Her biggest insights don't come from major lifestyle changes. Instead, they come from these small tweaks.

Read Full Answer

Day 9

Here's How to Build an Emergency Fund Without Blowing Your Budget

Personal finance expert Bola Sokunbi shares how to build an emergency fund without falling behind on your other financial goals.

Read Full Answer

Day 10

How Happy Couples Handle Money -- Even When They Disagree

A spender and a saver can still be a great match -- if they follow this expert advice for managing money, budgeting and talking about finances.

Read Full Answer

Day 11

3 Best Ways To Prioritize Your Savings Goals

Not sure if you should save for retirement or a vacation first? A financial expert shares how to prioritize competing savings goals with confidence.

Read Full Answer

Day 12

One Simple Fix for All Your Budget Problems from a Frugal Mom

Struggling to stay on budget? A financial expert reveals the real reason most budgets fail—and how to finally make yours stick.

Read Full Answer

Day 13

Here's Why You Always Want to Know Your Net Worth, According to a Financial Expert

A top financial expert explains how to calculate your net worth, and why this number can reveal more about your money than you think.

Read Full Answer

Day 14

Here's How to Avoid a Huge Tax Bill After a Successful Side Gig

Millions of Americans are freelancing. The extra income is great, but many gig workers get a rude awakening come tax season. Here's how to avoid that.

Read Full Answer

Day 15

6 Hidden Costs of Homeownership That Can Wreck Your Budget

Think your mortgage is the biggest expense? A top finance expert reveals the hidden homeownership costs that could wreck your budget.

Read Full Answer

Day 16

Avoid These 4 Common Mistakes When You Get Rich Overnight

NFL vet Brandon Copeland shares how to handle a financial windfall, avoid money mistakes, and build lasting wealth -- before the cash runs out.

Read Full Answer

Day 17

The One Loan That's Almost Guaranteed To Deliver Financial Disaster

Payday loans offer fast cash, but at a steep cost. A financial expert breaks down the hidden risks and safer alternatives to avoid the debt trap.

Read Full Answer

Day 18

The One Habit Keeping You in Credit Card Debt, According to Liz Claman

Read Full Answer

Day 19

How To Start Investing With Less Than $1,000

A financial expert explains how to limit risk and grow your money with simple, automated steps -- and as little as $1.

Read Full Answer

Day 20

The One Investment Barbara Corcoran Says She'll 'Never Sell' -- and Why

Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran shares her no-nonsense advice on real estate investing, including why she’ll never sell and how to avoid rookie mistakes.

Read Full Answer

Day 21

Why You Should Start Investing Now (Even If You Only Have $10)

New to investing? Finance expert Austin Hankwitz shares simple, smart steps to start building wealth, even if you only have $10 to spare.

Read Full Answer

Day 22

Key Signs Your Credit Card Is Quietly Wrecking Your Finances

Using a credit card daily can earn rewards or lead to debt. CFP Chloe Moore shares smart habits to help you build credit and avoid costly mistakes.

Read Full Answer

Day 23

The Most Common Retirement Mistake, According to an Expert

A financial coach reveals the most common retirement planning mistake, and how to avoid it before it threatens your financial future.

Read Full Answer

Day 24

2 Reasons It Might Not Make Sense to Pay Off Your Mortgage Right Away

Paying off your mortgage sounds smart—but could it cost you in the long run? Here’s what financial experts say about investing vs. early repayment.

Read Full Answer

Day 25

3 Reasons Bitcoin Is 'Digital Gold,' Says Investing Expert

Curious about Bitcoin or Ethereum? Market expert Jan van Eck explains how everyday investors can use crypto to diversify -- without falling for the hype.

Read Full Answer

Day 26

Multi-Millionaire Says Timing the Market is Impossible - Here's What You Should Do Instead

Even investing pros failing at timing the market. This expert explains why dollar-cost averaging is a better bet -- and can grow serious wealth over time.

Read Full Answer

Day 27

'5 Ways 'Loud Budgeting' Can Make You Richer, According to Vivian Tu

Finance expert Vivian Tu explains how “loud budgeting” can help you save more, stick to goals and ditch money shame for good.

Read Full Answer

Day 28

3 Questions You Must Ask Before Tapping Into Your Home's Equity

For many homeowners, the equity they've built can be a source for funding their lives. But before you do it, ask yourself these 3 questions.

Read Full Answer

Day 29

Mark Cuban Reveals His Formula for Side Hustle Success

When it comes to side hustles, everyone has an opinion. But when Mark Cuban speaks about what makes entrepreneurs succeed, people listen. Here's what he says.

Read Full Answer

Day 30

Here's Why You Need To Adopt New Money Moves at Every Stage of Life

The best money habits for your 20s, 30s and 40s, from saving and investing to debt management, to build lasting financial security.

Read Full Answer

Day 31

A Financial Expert Explains How to Balance Saving and Investing in 2025

A CFP breaks down the key differences between saving and investing, and how confusing the two could be costing you long-term growth.

Read Full Answer

Day 32

Here's How to Set Up an Emergency Fund Without Stress, According to an Expert

Learn how to build an emergency fund that can protect you in a crisis without derailing other savings and investing goals, according to a CFP.

Read Full Answer

Day 33

7 Financial Pitfalls That Catch Self-Employed People Off Guard

Being your own boss is empowering. But it also means operating without a safety net. Here are the money rules for self-employed people, and how to use them to your advantage.

Read Full Answer

Day 34

What the 1% Know About Taxes That You Probably Don't, According to an Expert

Learn how strategies like tax-loss harvesting and asset location can help you lower your tax bill and boost your investment returns over time.

Read Full Answer

Day 35

3 Reasons Gen Z Isn't As Bad With Money As You Might Think

Is Gen Z "bad with money," or are they redefining wealth? Here's why their approach to finances looks so different from older generations.

Read Full Answer

Day 36

Here's How To Be Successful Financially Without Building a Budget

Read Full Answer

Day 37

3 Ways To Protect Your Money From Inflation, According to an Expert

Worried about rising prices? A market expert shares how to adjust your spending, invest wisely, and protect your portfolio when inflation is high.

Read Full Answer

Day 38

4 Reasons This 'Safe Investment' Isn't Always a Good Bet, According to an Expert

ETFs offer low costs and easy access, but they’re not risk-free. Learn what CEO Noah Hamman says most investors miss when buying into ETFs.

Read Full Answer

Day 39

3 Key Signs That You're Losing Money to 'Lifestyle Inflation' -- and How To Get Out of It

Got a raise but still feel broke? Budgeting expert Allison Baggerly explains lifestyle inflation and how to stop spending more as you earn more.

Read Full Answer

Day 40

I'm an Investing Pro: Here's How To Access Private Equity (Without Being a Billionaire)

Private equity is now more accessible to everyday investors, but it comes with tradeoffs. Here’s what to know before you consider jumping in.

Read Full Answer

Day 41

4 Ways To Avoid Bank Fees and Keep More of Your Money

Tired of overdraft and ATM fees? A money expert shares how to dodge hidden bank charges and keep more of your money.

Read Full Answer

Day 42

4 Top Ways To Spot and Avoid a Scam, According to an Expert

Scammers can spoof your bank and steal your money fast. Learn how to spot red flags and protect your accounts with expert-backed fraud prevention tips.

Read Full Answer

Day 43

The No. 1 Mistake Retail Investors Keep Making, According to This Wall Street Insider

With markets swinging, it's easy for retail investors to get caught up in the wrong moves. Here's exactly why smart people keep making the same mistakes.

Read Full Answer

Day 44

Warren Buffett Says You Should Invest When the Market Is Down -- Here's Why

Warren Buffett shares why smart investors buy during market downturns, and how to choose the right stocks for long-term gains.

Read Full Answer

Day 45

5 Wealth-Building Habits of the Rich That You Might Want To Adopt

Learn the five financial habits Graham Stephan says make the biggest difference in building wealth and achieving long-term success.

Read Full Answer

Day 46

Don't Refinance Until You Read This Mortgage Pro's Advice

Read Full Answer

Day 47

The Big Retirement Myth That Could Ruin Your Plans

Many Americans believe this retirement myth—find out how it could derail your financial future and what to do now to protect your long-term plans.

Read Full Answer

Day 48

How Long It Really Takes To Get Rich, According to Robert Kiyosaki

Getting rich isn’t just luck or a lifetime grind—Robert Kiyosaki says with mindset, learning, and purpose, wealth is within reach sooner than you think.

Read Full Answer