GreenPath Real Stories

Connie Smith’s journey with money began long before her first paycheck. Growing up in foster care, she didn’t have a built-in financial playbook—so when she bought her first home before age 20, rising mortgage rates quickly created challenges she wasn’t prepared for.  Instead of giving up, Connie got curious. Determined to do things differently, she learned everything she could about personal finances and put this newfound knowledge into practice.  Connie has always hustled when it comes to income opportunities, which has helped her achieve her financial goals. Today, she’s not only building a stable financial future for herself and her children; she’s also paying it forward as a foster parent, offering the kind of support she once needed.  Her story is a powerful reminder: with knowledge, determination, and heart, financial wellness is possible—no matter where you start.  Key Moments 2:28 Connie reflects on how growing up in foster care affected her relationship with money.  4:02 She buys her first home as a 19-year-old and winds up in an adjustable-rate mortgage.  6:43 Becoming a young mom gives her a new perspective on life and money.  8:34 She feels defeated after her credit card debt starts to mount but eventually uses a credit counseling agency to address her debt.  13:53 Connie approaches things differently the next time she buys a home.  16:16 She speaks to the side hustles that have helped bridge the gaps in her budget.  17:57 She offers advice to other entrepreneurs.  22:35 She talks about how she plans to set herself up for her financial future, including the importance of a financial cushion in retirement.  26:36 She gives some financial tips to parents.  34:31 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Connie’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

Khiara Cureton once dreamed of becoming a doctor—but life had other plans. After realizing medicine wasn’t her true calling, she pivoted toward a master’s program that opened the door to a rewarding career in healthcare—and $120,000 in student loan debt.  But how to navigate her student debt was a problem for her future self.    “Someday” came sooner than expected. While building a thriving wedding planning business on the side, Khiara became a single mom. Her son quickly became her motivation to build stability and create the kind of future she’d always envisioned.  Today, Khiara is taking charge of her finances—tackling her student loans head-on and making steady progress toward a bright financial future for both of them.  Key Moments 2:50 Khiara learns about the value of financial independence growing up.  6:48 Khiara wrestles with big decisions—what to study and where to build her future.  9:24 She accumulates over 100K in student loan debt, but frames this as a problem to be solved in the future.  12:45 She starts a wedding planning business to bring in extra income.  16:40 After her business closes, she launches two new ventures.  19:24 Khiara shares her thoughts on the flow of money in the African-American community.  21:14 She balances her own financial goals with those related to her son.  23:23 She discusses her approach tackling her student loans.  29:13 She speaks to her financial goals to save for travel experiences and philanthropy work.  36:57 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Khiara’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

For Lorrena Black, saving money when she was young didn’t come naturally. Raised by a hard-working single mother, she modeled a deep work ethic but struggled to save. When she joined the Army, her discipline and sense of duty grew — but her spending habits stayed the same. Her real turning point came years later, during a short-lived career as a financial advisor. Helping others with their finances forced her to take a closer look at her own. Though she eventually pivoted her career in a new direction, the lessons she learned about budgeting, saving, and planning for the future finally began to click. Today, Lorrena channels that hard-won wisdom into mentoring and leadership development, with a focus on serving veterans. She’s passionate about helping others unlock their potential — financially, personally, and professionally. Key Moments 2:25 Lorrena’s upbringing influences her work ethic. 5:01 When she joins the military, she ends up spending all the money she makes. 7:58 She incurs some credit card debt in her 20s but eventually leverages her budget to pay it down. 12:01 She starts a career as a financial advisor and applies the teachings to her own life. 14:54 Lorrena retires from the army and loses some of her financial focus initially. 17:46 She launches a small business. 21:19 She strives to develop leaders, with a focus on veterans. 22:32 She talks about her goals related to her business, retirement and giving. 23:20 She shares her favorite money tip: pay yourself first.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

Jess Jackson grew up believing she was solidly middle class. But once she arrived at college, she realized many of her peers came from far wealthier backgrounds. Determined to keep up, she borrowed more than she should have—decisions that later became a heavy financial burden.  Her journey has been one of jumping into new opportunities and learning through trial and error. She bought her first home at a young age, navigating plenty of financial growing pains along the way. Over time, those lessons fueled her growth into a successful business built around real estate investment.  As her career has evolved, Jess has had to reinvent herself more than once. The path hasn’t been easy, but her persistence and resilience continue to drive her forward—and inspire her to create a better world for those around her.  Key Moments 2:40 Jess reflects on how being around people of different financial means influenced her.  7:09 When she attends the University of Michigan, she feels pressure to keep up with the Joneses.  11:42 Her credit score prevents her from getting approved for housing while in a teaching program.  12:56 She optimizes available resources as she gets her MBA.  14:52 Jess buys her first house and learns a lot along the way.  19:26 She learns a financial lesson related to her business and taxes.  20:43 She balances her savings goals and student loan repayment goals.  23:09 She discusses shame and ego and how this contributed to her stress.  24:58 She experiences job loss and a subsequent mental breakdown but emerges in a better place.  28:58 Jess shares some practical money tips.  35:18 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes from Jess’ story.   GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

As Evelyn grew up in an immigrant Cuban-American household, money was seldom discussed. Faced with mounting debt after a job loss and family medical expenses, she didn’t know where to turn. The debt piled up quickly, and bankruptcy started to feel like her only option.  Looking for connection and answers, Evelyn shared her situation on social media. The support she received encouraged her to explore other solutions.  That’s when she found GreenPath. With a customized plan and ongoing support, Evelyn is now working toward becoming debt-free. For the first time, she feels hopeful about building financial stability and a stronger future.   Key Moments 2:26 Evelyn reflects on how her parents didn’t really talk about money growing up.  4:13 She borrows a lot of money to cover living expenses during college.  7:08 Job loss and her husband’s medical expenses end up affecting the family’s finances.  10:06 She considers bankruptcy after her debt becomes overwhelming but ends up stumbling on a referral to GreenPath.  12:24 She recounts the initial conversations she had with GreenPath and the relief she felt.  18:32 She shares about her financial journey on social media.  22:35 Evelyn discusses her approach to her student loans.  24:08 She considers her future goals around debt, savings, and homeownership.  27:06 She encourages others in similar situations to not navigate financial stress alone.  28:47 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes in Evelyn’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Emily grew up in a household where money was tight, shaping her mindset around finances as she entered adulthood. Eager to embrace life and support loved ones, she often found it hard to say no—leading to experiences she cherishes, but also to mounting debt she came to regret.  After her boss suggested she reach out to GreenPath, Emily made the call—and felt immediate relief after speaking with a caring financial expert. With GreenPath’s support, she transformed her approach to money and steadily paid down her debt.  Years later, Emily is debt-free and looking toward the future with hope and excitement—dreaming of one day owning a cozy home down a quiet dirt road.  Key Moments 2:19 Emily recalls how money was tight growing up and how her childhood influenced her spending patterns as she became an adult.  5:12 She started using a credit card for her job that eventually caused her some financial struggle.   8:00 As she helps her family members celebrate milestones, Emily’s finances get further strained.  13:35 After she became overwhelmed with her debt, her boss recommended that she reach out to GreenPath.  16:46 She recounts the relief she felt talking to GreenPath.  22:35 Emily discusses how her spending approach with her family has changed as she has become more disciplined with her finances.  25:47 She thinks back to the joyful feeling she had when she became debt- free.  27:53 Her money that had been allocated towards her debts gets used for some unexpected travel and medical expenses.  31:19 She shares her future dreams of homeownership.  39:08 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes and lessons learned from Emily’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Gail Perry-Mason is truly a legend in the financial literacy world, having inspired youth and countless others for nearly three decades.  Her story is one of resilience and strength. Abandoned by her birth parents, Gail found the power of love and stability through her adopted family. She faced and overcame numerous challenges while navigating college and building a career in an industry that was often unwelcoming to a Black woman.  Gail went on to found a financial literacy camp for teens and co-authored the bestselling book Girl, Make Your Money Grow! Her impact has caught the attention of luminaries such as Warren Buffett and Oprah Winfrey. Through her personal journey, Gail shares powerful lessons and pearls of financial wisdom that continue to uplift and empower.  Key Moments 2:27 Gail reflects on her childhood and how this affected her outlook on life.  5:44 She works hard to attend college but struggles with her finances in the process.  8:52 She reaches out to GreenPath at a young age for guidance on better budget management.  14:47 She takes on the difficult task of advancing in her career.  25:03 Gail starts a money camp for teens that is now nearing its 30th anniversary.  33:04 She shares some of the key takeaways from her bestselling book, Girl, Make Your Money Grow!, which was featured on Oprah’s Debt Diet.  36:15 She considers money lessons she’s learned from her children.  40:05 Gail shares her favorite pearls of wisdom.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

CM didn’t grow up worrying about money, but adulthood brought new financial realities. Grad school meant taking on student loans, and launching a small business after moving across the country meant relying on credit cards to get by.  Eventually, she returned to New York—and found her footing again. The steady presence of family and close friends played a role in helping her rebuild. Their support not only gave her a sense of stability but also reshaped the way she thought about money: not just as a tool, but as something to approach with intention.  A recent discovery—a fraudulent collection account—was a stark reminder of how quickly financial security can feel fragile. The experience was draining, but CM met the challenge head-on, navigating the red tape and clearing her name with persistence.  Today, CM has created a financial that life she is proud of. She’s more intentional, more informed—and still dreaming big.  Key Moments 2:31 CM reflects on her childhood and how she approached money as she entered adulthood.  5:40 On her own for the first time, she acknowledges that she missed opportunities to save.  8:38 She details her experiences with student loans.  12:15 She recalls the journey of becoming a small business owner.  18:02 CM moves out to Los Angeles and encounters some debt and life struggles.  24:49 As she ponders the influence of the financial mentors in her life, she shares her favorite financial lessons she tries to live by.  27:53 CM recounts her recent frustrations with financial fraud.  33:53 She considers her financial goals, including buying a property in Nice, France.  39:58 Our co-hosts reflect on themes and lessons from CM’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Today, we revisit two former guests, Regina and Renita. Regina first spoke to us in episode 27episode 27.  At the time, she was in the middle of her Debt Management Program and several years away from being debt-free. Today, with her program complete, she reflects on her accomplishment and shares her vision of the new financial future she’s created for herself.  We also catch up with Renita. Back in episode 44episode 44, she had recently completed her debt repayment plan and had just shared the details of her debt journey with her husband. A year and a half later, she continues to make strides on some of her financial goals. Her husband, inspired by her success, has even started working with GreenPath himself!  Share Your Thoughts Key Moments 3:14 Regina describes her experience making progress paying down her debt.  6:06 She recalls what it felt like when she became debt-free.  9:14 She discusses her new goals, including paying down her mortgage and building retirement and emergency savings.   15:52 She talks about her measured excitement about her financial future.  19:03 Renita talks about her debt progress as she focuses on her student loan repayment.  23:26 Her husband, inspired by her debt repayment success, enrolls on his own Debt Management Program with GreenPath.  25:44 She talks about some potential future financial goals such as home renovation.  31:14 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Regina’s and Renita’s stories.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Maria is the embodiment of tenacity. When she applied for college, she was informed of her ineligibility due to her immigration status at the time. Refusing to take “no” for an answer, she became one of the first two people in her home state to get accepted with her status. However, she still faced the challenge of paying her way through college without financial aid. In surpassing this hurdle, she empowered others in similar circumstances.    Maria became the first person in her family to own a home and started her own small business shortly after welcoming a son. Her experience in marketing led her to GreenPath, where she now utilizes her skills for a mission she cares deeply about.    Learn more about her story in her own wordsin her own words. Share Your Thoughts Key Moments Key Moments  2:50 Maria reflects on her time growing up in Mexico and how her family approached money.  6:54 She remembers the difficulty of getting accepted into college because of her immigration status.  10:08 She strategizes paying for college without financial aid.  11:38 Her role working for a bank opens her eyes to the obstacles faced by the Hispanic community.  14:38 She helps other students and parents who share the challenge of getting into college.   18:13 Maria buys a home shortly after graduation, becoming the first person in her family to accomplish this goal.  19:48 She gives birth to her son and starts her own business.  27:03 Maria describes her experience starting her role at GreenPath.  29:20 She discusses her financial goals, including investing in retirement.  34:48 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes from Maria’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

Kelly’s financial story is a testament to resilience and relatable to many of us. Initially burdened by student loans and credit card debt, she struggled to keep pace with her peers who unintentionally created pressure to overspend. Life’s unexpected challenges, like a recent car accident requiring a new auto loan, added to her financial woes.   For Kelly, a scarcity mindset still lingers from when her financial struggles were greater.  Despite these setbacks, Kelly has begun to shift her mindset and reclaim, starting a Debt Management Program with GreenPath.    While she’s still a year into debt repayment, she has simplified her financial life, which has given her more peace of mind.  Kelly offers reflection about the psychological roots of her relationship with money and shares practical tips for others in a similar situation.   Share Your Thoughts Key Moments 2:57 Kelly reflects on how her family handled money growing up and how this influenced her as she reached adulthood.  6:31 She starts spending more money after starting a new relationship.  11:24 She describes how her debt slowly evolved to the point of being overwhelming.  13:50 She starts to explore debt options and discovers GreenPath.  16:55 Kelly discusses when she had used a debt settlement company earlier in her journey and why she feels more comfortable working with GreenPath today.  22:19 She talks about her goals and progress on her Debt Management Program.  24:31 She finds support with other friends who are going through similar circumstances.  26:39 She analyzes how her scarcity mindset affects her approach to money.  31:23 Kelly considers her financial goals, including creating more financial flexibility, buying a condo and travelling more.  35:17 She shares a financial tip to save ten-dollar bills.  44:33 She thinks about what financial advice she’d give her younger self, including saving more when she was younger.  49:14 Our co-hosts reflect on the lessons learned within Kelly’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

As a young woman, Dr. Darla Bishop had her heart set on attending her dream college, the University of Michigan. But there was one major obstacle: how would she afford it? Just days before the semester began, an unexpected envelope arrived, changing her life forever.  Throughout her college years, Darla developed a voracious appetite for financial knowledge. She discovered that she was just as capable as her wealthier peers. Empowering herself with financial literacy became her game changer.  Not only did Darla unlock her own financial potential, but she also became a beacon of guidance for others. Her journey reveals that the emotional aspects of money are far more significant than the numbers.  Learn more about Dr. Darla Bishop at www.howtoaffordeverything.com  Key Moments 2:42 Darla talks about her experience with money growing up, including how money got tighter after middle school.  4:12 She has a transformative experience going to a summer program in high school.  6:23 Money obstacles almost prevent her from going to her dream college.  9:12 Her money curiosity leads her to books and mentors to increase her personal finance knowledge.  11:53 A blown tire gives Darla insights into her psychological patterns.  17:21 Her decision on which apple to buy becomes a money lesson.  19:51 She reflects on how the emotional aspects of money are so much more important than the math.  21:39 She transforms her mindset around money.  25:30 She recounts how she determined how much money she’d need to balance her budget and reach her debt repayment goals.  30:45 Darla shares some financial tips.  33:50 She gives advice for other military spouses.  37:15 She considers her future financial goals.  46:27 Our co-hosts reflect on themes from Darla’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Debt can accumulate for many reasons. For Tyjai, it was a mix of factors. In his early 20s, he didn’t have a spending plan. Rising inflation drove up the cost of major expenses like rent and auto insurance. Meanwhile, the growing interest rates on his credit cards quietly added to the pressure, leaving him feeling stuck. He became numb to the increasing interest rates on his credit cards.    While working at a credit union that offered financial coaching, Tyjai gained the skills to support others facing debt. Yet, he found himself putting off tackling his own financial challenges.  That changed when his credit union partnered with GreenPath. Seizing the opportunity, Tyjai created a long-term plan to take control of his debt. Now, by openly sharing about his own struggles, he hopes to inspire others to face their challenges head on.  Key Moments 2:31 Tyjai reflects on his experience with money growing up.  6:59 He talks about how his debt crept up post-graduation.   9:43 After hitting a dead end trying short term fixes, he finally explores a longer-term solution for his debt.  13:35 He recalls his initial conversation with GreenPath.  16:42 He talks about his credit score dropping and the resulting hit to his ego.  19:49 Tyjai discusses how he has adjusted his budget to make it work now that he no longer has use of his credit cards.  25:01 He offers advice for others who are considering a Debt Management Program.  28:29 He looks forward to a future that includes home ownership and investing.  38:27 Our cohosts reflect on themes from Tyjai’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Today’s guest is Crystal L. Gunn, a financial strategist with a mission to empower people to transform their relationship with money. Crystal helps clients shift their mindset, heal financial traumas, and set new expectations and standards for their financial lives.  In this conversation, GreenPath guest host Dai-Jaya interviews her mentor Crystal, who opens up about her own financial struggles and the insights she gained along the way—knowledge she now uses to guide and uplift others.  To learn more about Crystal and her work, visit www.crystalgunn.com.  Key Moments 2:18 After Crystal introduces herself, our guest host Dai-Jaya talks about the difference that Crystal has made in her financial life.  5:12 Crystal shares her experience with money growing up.  7:00 She discusses her financial struggles around a divorce and business that was no longer viable.  14:20 She highlights a projected statistic that inspires how she leads her life, financially and otherwise.  16:35 Crystal recalls when she left her full-time job to focus on her financial literacy nonprofit.    25:23 She talks about her own surprise in becoming a financial strategist.  29:16 She explains how she became an expert in personal finance.  33:21 Crystal considers how we might bring conversations about money into the open.  38:42 She offers advice for how one might tackle financial concerns without spending money.  45:15 Our co-hosts reflect on Crystal’s theme around generational wealth.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Meet Juan: a resilient first-generation immigrant from Honduras whose early relationship with finance might sound familiar to some. Growing up in a family that feared spending money, he learned early on to avoid financial products, including credit cards. Juan yearned for a career in acting, but when he graduated college, his dreams were abruptly halted by the pandemic. As a result, he found himself at a crossroads. Although his income was limited and his cost of living was high, Juan became a dedicated learner, soaking up valuable money concepts. His newfound wisdom empowered him to take control of his finances and pivot toward a career as a financial coach. You can learn more about Juan at www.linkedin.com/in/juan-valeriano. Our episode spotlights Juan’s story and the applicable money tips he’s gathered along the way. Key Moments 2:48 Juan shares how his family’s immigration experience shaped his beliefs around money. 7:39 As a graduate in the pandemic, he uses this opportunity to educate himself about money. 11:51 Juan shares what he has learned about high-yield savings accounts. 15:01 He outlines the basics of Roth IRAs. 21:26 He encourages listeners to approach a credit card as an upgraded debit card. 25:05 He is inspired to share his financial wisdom with friends and family. 26:48 Juan receives a formal education on financial coaching through his work at the Financial Gym. 27:56 He launches his own financial coaching business, the Wealth Wellness Studio. 35:19 Juan offers insights from his journey as an entrepreneur. 37:47 He shares tips on investing and financial habits and how to budget for your desired lifestyle. 44:27 Juan gives advice for his younger self and encourages listeners to take risks and get comfortable with being uncomfortable. 48:38 Our co-hosts reflect on Juan’s theme around fear and money. GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

Meet Ben, a man faced with many crossroads on his financial journey. Reflecting on his early work experience as a commercial fisherman, his struggles with debt during his first marriage, and the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy, Ben learned about money management like so many of us have: the hard way. Despite using various tools to manage his cash flow, debt remained a barrier. Emphasizing his analytical approach to challenges, Ben explored debt settlement, consolidation loans, and finally GreenPath where a phone call would bring renewed optimism. His regrets—as well as his insights —are worth a listen for anyone navigating similar challenges. Key Moments 1:25 Ben details his experience with money growing up. 4:58 He discusses how he struggled with debt in his first marriage. 6:26 He shares what he learned going through bankruptcy. 9:05 He talks about the tools he uses to manage his cash flow. 13:39 After Ben’s debt accumulates again, he uses a debt settlement service. 16:03 When his debt creeps up a decade later, he explores a debt consolidation loan and eventually starts a Debt Management Program with GreenPath. 19:53 He talks about his approach to doing a debt snowball versus a debt avalanche. 22:10 He recalls his experience interacting with GreenPath. 27:03 Ben describes his sacrifice in living without a car to support his budget. 32:20 He recounts how he retrained himself to change his spending and credit habits. 36:43 He regrets using cash advances to make a down payment on the land he purchased. 40:05 He discusses his financial goals such as home ownership and buying a car. GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

A recent survey finding from the American Psychological Association (APA) unlikely to surprise you: 64% of Americans report money as a significant source of stress in their lives. Today’s episode explores this connection between mental health and finance with a live panel discussion on tips, challenges, and resources when it comes to nurturing our well-being. Our panel features former Real $tories guests: GreenPath clients and their own journeys of improving their mental and financial health. Jasmine PaulJasmine Paul: her award-winning children’s book, financial education instruction, and talks focus on making wealth fun. LeAnnLeAnn: when her financial stress impacted her mental and physical health, she connected with a therapist and eventually found a solution that put her finances back on track. KittyKitty: her story is one of shame transformed to pride. She wants to change the conversation around money and empower others to pursue their own path towards self-forgiveness. Key Moments 2:56 Cohosts Chris and Shamica share their own mental health struggles around navigating a divorce and student loans, respectively. 6:50 Was there an experience with money growing up that shaped your psyche around money? 14:14 How did you notice your mental health being affected when you were struggling with your debt? 17:26 How did you get to a place where you were ready to ask for support for your money concerns? 24:05 Have you had an anxious client who left your coaching session more at ease? How do you help foster that transformation? 28:26 What is your recollection of your first counseling experience? 34:57 What is your favorite free self-care activity?

At age 22, Elyse was standing at a crossroads with $34,000 in debt with credit card payments, student loans, and a car loan all due at once. Her chosen path: a radical approach to pay off all debt by the time she turned 24. Within months, she went even further, buying her own house using a VA loan. This is not to say that her road to financial wellness has been linear. Now a single parent in her late 20s, Elyse still faces financial challenges that she documents on her personal finance blog, the Savvy Sagittarius. Today, she is being proactive in her debt approach and establishing an emergency fund. Throughout her financial wellness journey, she has leaned on a supportive online community and served as an inspiration to many, creating money management tools she shares on her site. Key Moments 2:38 Elyse discusses how her upbringing shaped her work ethic and money approach. 4:03 At 22, faced with simultaneous debts, she decides to do something radical. 7:06 She embraces the snowball method—tackling each debt from smallest to largest. 8:03 Elyse figures out how to balance her goal of becoming debt free while still enjoying her 20s. 11:51 She describes the support she’s received from her parents and especially from her online community. 13:15 She recalls the euphoria she felt when she became debt free at 24. 14:02 Elyse buys a home using a VA loan and considers what she learned through this process. 16:44 She shares her financial goals: paying off some newer debt and establishing an emergency fund. 19:05 She offers tips when it comes to side hustles. 22:40 Elyse tells the story of how the Savvy Sagittarius started. 24:02 She defines the concept of a “No Spend Month.” 29:23 She suggests buying annual memberships to museums and parks to save money and offer flexibility. 31:18 She talks about the value of tracking your expenses to increase awareness. 36:44 Elyse discusses the money management tools she offers on her website. 41:13 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes that emerged in Elyse’s story.

Meet Frankie: a financial coach for Ent Credit Union, one of GreenPath’s partners in Colorado. She has expertise in helping others manage their money—and was financially self-reliant from a young age—but it’s often harder to see ourselves as clearly as we see others. Frankie’s “Aha moment” came during a conversation with a GreenPath counselor, during which she gained a new perspective on the money dynamics in her marriage; she recognized that if she stayed with her husband, she would continue to endure financial abuse. Frankie made the courageous decision to end her marriage and focus on creating a financially healthy life for herself. Today, she strives to impart her wisdom to her son, her credit union members, and our listeners. Key Moments 2:46 Frankie talks about growing up, the loss of her parents, and how she had to be financially self-reliant from a young age. 7:28 She recounts meeting her husband through work and shares the early trepidations she had about joint money management. 9:27 She discusses the financial red flags that appeared in her relationship over time. 11:27 She recounts struggling with their mortgage and eventually losing their home, an event she considers the darkest period of her financial life. 14:28 She and her husband move to Colorado for a fresh start. 16:56 Her new career at Ent Credit Union gives her deeper insight into her personal life and marital finances. 18:37 She describes the pivotal session with a GreenPath counselor that gave her a new perspective on the problematic financial dynamics of her marriage. 23:26 Frankie makes a major change to her housing situation to help balance her budget. 26:10 She speaks about the financial impact of her divorce and the importance of having protected her credit. 29:30 Frankie discusses her goals of retiring, living a simpler life, and focusing on her son. 32:46 She describes the non-judgmental support and safety that GreenPath provides to the members she works with. 37:08 She shares what she’s learned regarding financial abuse. 43:09 Our co-hosts reflect on themes from Frankie’s story.

Meet Racheal. She is a true role model when it comes to financial resiliency. Her reality was many people’s worst nightmare: $124,000 of credit card debt following her divorce. Racheal worked with GreenPath to pay off what she owed, enduring Hurrican Ida and a pandemic along the way. As she made progress toward being debt-free, she set aside funds to buy a home for her and her son. Today, she is putting her son through college and has created a structure to pay off her mortgage in seven years! In her professional life, she works for one of GreenPath’s credit union partners, empowering members to tackle their financial challenges even when the odds feel insurmountable. Key Moments 3:00 Racheal reflects on her lack of experience with money growing up. 5:20 She details how her house remodel and eventual divorce led to accumulating credit card debt. 7:54 Contemplating how to handle her debt, she decides to contact GreenPath. 10:43 Racheal recounts the relief she felt when the Debt Management Program brought much-needed financial structure. 13:59 She shares the experience of working three jobs to stay on track. 15:43 Racheal celebrates a major milestone: paying off her debt ahead of schedule. 17:02 She continues to work her extra jobs to aggressively pay off her mortgage. 25:06 By sharing her personal experiences, she inspires a colleague to improve their financial situation. 30:06 She discusses purchasing a car and home early in her debt repayment journey. 36:33 Racheal gets out of her comfort zone by sharing her story. 42:47: Our co-hosts reflect on Racheal’s story and offer related financial tips.