Help Wanted Podcast Episode Summary

Title: A Personal Update From Nicole
Host/Author: Money News Network
Release Date: February 25, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Help Wanted, hosted by Jason Pfeiffer and Nicole Lapin from Money News Network, listeners are treated to a deeply personal update from co-host Nicole Lapin. While the episode initially covers practical financial advice, it transitions into an emotional narrative detailing Nicole's recent life challenges, including maternity leave and the tragic loss of her home in the Los Angeles fires. This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and the resilient spirit showcased by Nicole.

1. Smart Financial Tools: NerdWallet and Public

The episode begins with Jason Pfeiffer emphasizing the importance of using reliable financial tools to make informed decisions:

• NerdWallet's Card Finder Tool:
  Jason Pfeiffer [00:00]: "Using NerdWallet to find the best financial products for you, like credit cards, is more than smart. It's genius because the nerds already did all the research, so it's easy to find the right card for you in minutes."

  Jason demonstrates the Card Finder tool, guiding listeners through questions about credit score, desired rewards, upcoming big purchases (like his wedding), and monthly spending. He underscores the efficiency and accuracy of NerdWallet in recommending suitable credit cards tailored to individual needs.

• Public Investing Platform:
  Nicole Lapin [01:07]: "Public is a modern brokerage that allows you to invest in stocks, options, bonds, ETFs, and crypto all in one place."

  Nicole introduces Public as an innovative investment platform that simplifies access to various investment vehicles. She highlights unique features such as self-directed investing in bonds and the ability to make free fractional investments, making bonds accessible with as little as $100—a significant improvement from previous minimums.

2. Personal Update from Nicole Lapin

Transitioning from financial tools, the episode takes a poignant turn as Nicole shares a personal update:

• Announcement of Maternity Leave and House Loss:
  Nicole Lapin [03:04]: "Nicole lost her house in the recent Los Angeles fires... today I just want to play you that episode so that you can hear from Nicole directly."

Nicole plays an excerpt from her own podcast, Money Rehab, where she narrates the harrowing experience of losing her home amidst the LA fires just two weeks after welcoming her baby girl. Her narrative is both raw and reflective, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into her struggles and resilience.

3. Nicole’s Journey Through Loss and Recovery

A. The Evacuation and Immediate Aftermath

Nicole recounts the suddenness and chaos of the fire evacuation:

• Nicole Lapin [03:53]: "We lost our home. Our house burned down in the LA fires in the Palisades. We left with nothing, literally, the clothes on our backs and our baby in our arms."

Faced with an imminent threat, Nicole acted instinctively to protect her newborn, leaving behind valuable and sentimental possessions without hesitation.

B. Emotional Impact and Coping Mechanisms

The emotional toll of losing her home is palpable:

• Nicole Lapin [06:25]: "This has been so hard. Losing my home and everything in it was never on my life bingo card."

She delves into the profound grief associated not just with the loss of material belongings but also the intangible loss of memories and future plans she had envisioned with her daughter.

C. Reflections on the Concept of Home

Nicole introspects on the deeper meaning of "home":

• Nicole Lapin [15:45]: "The wound is the place, the light enters you."

Inspired by poet Rumi, Nicole emphasizes that true home is not defined by physical structures or possessions but by internal strength and support systems.

D. Path to Recovery and Finding Purpose

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Nicole finds solace in community support and purpose:

• Nicole Lapin [12:30]: "Having people who listen to the show, who reached out to send me good thoughts and prayers and wishes... being useful, being of service has given me some sense of purpose and meaning through all of this chaos."

Her commitment to helping others, even amidst her personal turmoil, highlights her resilience and dedication to the show's mission.

E. Plans for Returning to the Show

Nicole addresses her return to Help Wanted with vulnerability:

• Nicole Lapin [16:50]: "Doing this show and talking to you is a part of my life that gives me so much meaning. It is something that no fire could ever take away from me."

She plans to resume hosting duties while balancing her responsibilities as a new mother and rebuilding her life, assuring listeners of her ongoing dedication despite the hardships.

4. Future of the Help Wanted Show

In Nicole's absence, Jason outlines the show's direction:

• Jason Pfeiffer [17:09]: "We don't have an exact plan yet for Help Wanted. You can expect more of what you've been hearing here for the past few months. It'll be me and a rotating cast holding down the fort at Help Wanted and being helpful."

The show will continue to provide valuable work-related solutions and financial advice, with temporary hosts stepping in to maintain continuity and support for the audience.

5. Conclusion and Community Support

Nicole closes the episode with messages of solidarity and hope:

• Nicole Lapin [17:47]: "I love our hometown. I feel your heartbreak. I feel your grief. And I don't know when, but I promise we will get through this together, one step, one day at a time."

Her words resonate with empathy and encouragement, fostering a sense of community among listeners who may be facing their own challenges.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jason Pfeiffer [00:00]: "Using NerdWallet to find the best financial products for you, like credit cards, is more than smart. It's genius..."

• Nicole Lapin [01:07]: "Public is a modern brokerage that allows you to invest in stocks, options, bonds, ETFs, and crypto all in one place."

• Nicole Lapin [03:53]: "We lost our home. Our house burned down in the LA fires in the Palisades..."

• Nicole Lapin [06:25]: "This has been so hard. Losing my home and everything in it was never on my life bingo card."

• Nicole Lapin [15:45]: "The wound is the place, the light enters you."

• Nicole Lapin [16:50]: "Doing this show and talking to you is a part of my life that gives me so much meaning."

• Nicole Lapin [17:47]: "I love our hometown. I feel your heartbreak. I feel your grief. And I don't know when, but I promise we will get through this together, one step, one day at a time."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Help Wanted transcends typical advisory content, offering a profound narrative of loss, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. Nicole Lapin's candid sharing serves as both an inspiration and a testament to the strength found in community and purpose. Listeners are not only equipped with financial tools but also uplifted by a story of overcoming adversity with grace and determination.

For more support and to engage with the Help Wanted community, listeners are encouraged to email helpline@moneynewsnetwork.com and follow the show on Instagram and TikTok for exclusive content.