Advertise on podcast: Money For Couples with Ramit Sethi

Ramit Sethi of I Will Teach You To Be Rich talks to Melissa and Tony, a couple who immigrated from Mexico with big dreams and an even bigger work ethic. In less than a decade, they've built a net worth of nearly $900,000. But beneath the surface of their impressive paper wealth, they’re carrying almost $1 million in debt and are completely misaligned on their financial goals. With their second child due any day, Ramit helps them uncover the root of their money woes, from differing money styles to the profound impact of their upbringing. Can they finally get on the same page, create a financial system that works, and build a sustainable rich life? In this episode we uncover: • How Melissa and Tony built a nearly $900K net worth in 8 years • The "rollercoaster" of their financial decision-making • Why their credit card debt is actually due to real estate • Tony’s “paycheck to paycheck” feeling with a $189k household income • Melissa’s childhood money lessons from her dad, Mr. No • How they navigate financial planning with a baby due this month • Why they avoid combining their high incomes • The cultural influences shaping their financial narratives • What happens when Tony is “comfortable” and avoids change • The deeper reasons behind their ongoing money disagreements • Ramit’s advice on how to communicate about money effectively • A surprising agreement that might change their future Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:28) Their chaotic financial situation (00:07:07) Melissa and Tony’s real estate struggles (00:13:07) Melissa's real estate ambitions vs. Tony’s pessimism (00:20:58) The cycles of making and losing money (00:26:59) The ineffective communication about debt (00:33:57) The danger of making emotional money decisions (00:37:35) Diving deep into their income and debt (00:46:01) Their unspoken rules about money and spending (00:51:56) The painful truth behind being "house poor" (01:00:43) Impact of childhood money lessons on their current finances (01:10:29) The parent-child dynamic in their financial relationship   This episode is brought to you by: Superhuman | Turn your inbox into momentum. Sign up at https://superhuman.com/ramit. ZocDoc | Go to https://zocdoc.com/ramit to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today #sponsored  DeleteMe | Get 20% off all consumer plans when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit and use promo code RAMIT at checkout Trust & Will | Protect what matters most in minutes at https://trustandwill.com/ramit and get 10% off plus free shipping Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit  • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here: https://iwt.com/apply

Ramit Sethi of I Will Teach You To Be Rich talks to Grace and James, a couple from Ireland, aged 38 and 37, who have been navigating immense challenges. James was diagnosed with cancer and underwent a year of treatment, while Grace managed a difficult pregnancy and maternity leave with their second child, an infant. Amidst the fear and grief, their household income took a significant hit, causing financial strain. Grace felt the burden of managing their finances, leading to guilt about James continuing to work during his illness. Despite these hardships, they’ve built a strong financial foundation with high savings and have managed to stay afloat. Ramit helps them explore their individual money psychologies, the impact of their upbringings, and how their shared experiences have shaped their financial outlook, revealing a story of resilience, unwavering teamwork, and an inspiring pursuit of a rich life. In this episode we uncover: • How Grace feels immense pressure to manage finances • The emotional toll of James's cancer diagnosis • Grace's hidden "mindless" spending under stress • The Irish perspective on "mustn't grumble" about money • James's childhood money messages and aversion to debt • The surprising freedom found in small financial wins • Grace's proactive approach to long-term financial planning • The power of internal versus external locus of control • How a shared money philosophy can emerge from conflict • The importance of planning for the worst when at your best • Their inspiring journey of overcoming adversity as a team Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction (00:05:13) Grace's guilt over James working during cancer (00:12:32) Grace's "mindless purchases" and coping mechanisms (00:15:55) The surprising reality of their financial stability (00:30:03) Contrasting money philosophies: big spend vs. small treats (00:33:45) Reviewing their Conscious Spending Plan and uncovering hidden wealth (00:46:12) The impact of fluctuating income on their financial outlook (00:55:00) Planning for the worst when they are at their best (01:00:16) James's upbringing and the origins of his money anxiety (01:11:10) Their "ice cream cone" fight and early money revelations This episode is brought to you by: Notion | Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at https://notion.com/ramit LMNT | Get a free 8-count Sample Pack with any LMNT order at https://drinklmnt.com/RAMIT Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Facet | As of the date of this recording, Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members, and for my audience, Facet is offering $300 into your brokerage account if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days. Head to facet.com/ramit to learn more about which membership option is best for you. Offer expires March 31, 2026. #FacetAd  Shopify | Sign up for a $1 per month trial period at https://shopify.com/ramit Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit  • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here: https://iwt.com/apply 

Ramit Sethi of I Will Teach You To Be Rich continues his discussion with Mike and Noel in part two of their financial deep dive. The couple, married for just 6 months, faces a daunting $244K in debt with zero savings, fueled by previous "guilt-free" spending and a shocking $170K windfall that disappeared. Despite their dire situation, major cuts to their fixed costs haven't happened yet. Ramit encourages Noel to reconsider her church tithing and find proactive ways to increase income, like driving for Uber. Can they shift their mindset from feeling deprived to purposeful sacrifice, anchor their spending to zero, and collaboratively create a sustainable financial future? In this episode we uncover: • Noel’s decision regarding her church tithing • The power of incremental income, like Noel’s potential earnings from Uber • Ramit’s "anchor to zero" framework for mindful spending • How comparing current spending to past mistakes sabotages financial progress • The importance of distinguishing between sacrifice and suffering • Why making big changes with money is meant to be hard • The potential for selling household items to boost savings and signal a "rebuilding phase" • How a short-term financial plan can set them up for long-term success • The opportunity to define their own timeline for debt repayment and savings Chapters: (00:00:00) Previously on money for couples (00:02:09) How Noel's decided to approach tithing (00:03:33) Why cutting subscriptions won't solve their problems (00:03:49) Noel's plan to earn more money with Uber (00:04:21) Ramit introduces the "anchor to zero" spending framework (00:05:46) Mike and Noel reflect on the conversation (00:07:11) Sacrifice vs. suffering: Reframing financial changes (00:08:43) Why comparing to the past holds them back (00:09:50) Noel's internal struggle with tithing (00:10:34) Ramit presents a vision for their future (00:11:15) The idea of selling household items to fund savings (00:12:18) Ramit's proposal for their next steps and a follow-up This episode is brought to you by: ZocDoc | Go to https://zocdoc.com/ramit to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today #sponsored  DeleteMe | Get 20% off all consumer plans when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit and use promo code RAMIT at checkout Leesa | Go to https://leesa.com for 25% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code RAMIT, exclusive for my listeners Factor | Go to https://factormeals.com/ramit50OFF and use code RAMIT50OFF to get 50% off your first box, plus free breakfast for 1 year Trust & Will | Protect what matters most in minutes at https://trustandwill.com/ramit and get 10% off plus free shipping Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit  • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here: https://iwt.com/apply 

Ramit Sethi of I Will Teach You To Be Rich talks to Mike and Noel, a young couple who are both 34. They married just 6 months ago, but financial fights have become a daily occurrence, even after receiving a $170K windfall. Mike blames Noel for overspending, but admits they both struggle with money, while Noel views the windfall as "guilt-free" spending. With $244K in debt, zero savings, and 82% of their income going to fixed costs, Ramit helps them uncover the root of their money woes. Will they finally get on the same page, create a financial system that works, and learn to trust each other with money? In this episode we uncover: • How Mike’s money anxiety leads him to check his bank account 20 times a day • The shocking truth about their $170K windfall • Why Mike’s anxiety worsens when he makes more money • The one money rule Mike and Noel both broke • How Mike’s upbringing shaped his money habits • Why Noel feels like she's "drowning" and has no control over their finances • The spending categories that reveal their money psychology • Why Mike's "money is mine" mentality is holding them back • Noel’s struggle to “hand over her paycheck” • The credit card debt that keeps piling up • Ramit’s radical approach to cutting fixed costs • The “Glade Plug-in” budget that explains everything • Noel’s difficult decision about tithing and faith • Why benchmarking against past mistakes is a recipe for disaster • The truth about their approach to money Chapters: (00:00:00) “We just kinda like get whatever we want whenever we want it” (00:07:02) “I was stressing more than ever before” (00:14:04) The one money rule they both broke (00:24:29) “You treat me like a child” (00:32:39) Ramit identifies their “money leaks” (00:39:34) “I don’t want to hand over my paycheck” (00:47:30) “My goals are not being met” (00:55:38) The “Glade Plug-in” budget (01:00:03) “I do wanna have a Glade budget” (01:06:50) How Mike’s upbringing shaped his money habits (01:15:10) Ramit shares his radical advice (01:21:10) Preview for part two This episode is brought to you by: Bilt | Join the loyalty program for renters at https://joinbilt.com/ramit Wispr Flow | Try Wispr Flow for free at wisprflow.ai/ramit Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist Netsuite | Get the free guide “Demystifying AI” at https://netsuite.com/ramit Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Connect with Ramit Get my new book, Money For Couples Get Money Coaching with Ramit  Download the Conscious Spending Plan Listen to my book—now on Audible Get my New York Times best-selling book Get my no-numbers journal Other episodes Instagram Twitter YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here: https://iwt.com/apply

Ramit Sethi of I Will Teach You To Be Rich talks to Natalie and Chris, married with two young kids and a net worth of $1.3 million. Despite their significant assets, money remains a constant source of conflict, especially when unexpected expenses arise. Chris tends to "freak out," emotionally withdrawing and becoming zombie-like, leaving Natalie feeling alone. This pattern, which Chris describes as "catastrophizing," has intensified since their kids' expenses piled up.  Their therapist recommended they talk to Ramit, hoping to establish a financial game plan to prevent Chris's emotional collapses. Currently, 81% of their income goes to fixed costs, with 0% to savings, leading to a feeling of constant stress and no margin for error. Can Ramit help them create a financial system that provides peace of mind and allows Chris to process financial challenges with less distress? In this episode we uncover: • The unexpected source of Chris and Natalie’s referral to Ramit • How large, unexpected expenses trigger Chris’s emotional “shutdown” • Natalie’s experience of feeling isolated when Chris is financially stressed • Why having a $1.3 million net worth doesn’t alleviate their financial anxiety • The surprising reason for their elevated fixed costs and lack of savings  • The emotional impact of feeling like there’s “nothing left over” at the end of the month  • Chris’s pattern of “catastrophizing” and the fear of successive financial blows  • The core question their therapist hopes Ramit can answer  • How Chris’s upbringing influences his current financial anxieties  • The challenges of discussing money when past traumas intertwine with current stresses Chapters: (00:00:00) “Your therapist...recommended that you speak to me” (00:10:55) “Natalie, what’s your role in money?” (00:25:43) The unexpected (and huge) financial blindspot (00:36:18) Ramit discovers a massive amount of hidden money (00:45:01) “You are financially set up for life” (00:54:02) How "Red Bull wingsuit" leads to a Rich Life (01:19:20) Finding an extra $1,360/month (01:44:23) Natalie and Chris’s follow-up: “He’s at ease now” This episode is brought to you by: ZocDoc | Download the ZocDoc app for FREE at https://zocdoc.com/ramit then find and book a top-rated doctor today #sponsored  Notion | Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at https://notion.com/ramit DeleteMe | If you want to get your personal information removed from the web, go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit for 20% off Gusto | Try Gusto at http://gusto.com/ramit and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll Facet | Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members, and for my audience, Facet is offering $300 into your brokerage account if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days. Head to facet.com/ramit to learn more about which membership option is best for you. Offer expires March 31, 2026. #FacetAd  Connect with Ramit • ⁠Get my new book, Money For Couples⁠ • ⁠Get Money Coaching with Ramit⁠ • ⁠Download the Conscious Spending Plan⁠ • ⁠Listen to my book—now on Audible⁠ • ⁠Get my New York Times best-selling book⁠ • ⁠Get my no-numbers journal⁠ • ⁠Other episodes⁠ • ⁠Instagram⁠ • ⁠Twitter⁠ • ⁠YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here: https://iwt.com/apply 

Two couples take the stage with a shared question—but very different financial realities: When is “enough” actually enough to move forward? Finn and Luna built a successful pet-sitting business and now sit on hundreds of thousands of dollars—but with no clear plan for investing, homeownership, or the future. Meanwhile, Monica and Antonio earn a strong income, are completely debt-free, and yet feel paralyzed by fear as they juggle parenting, aging parents, and the possibility of purchasing a larger home. In this live episode, Ramit digs into the tension between optimism and realism, abundance and anxiety. Together, they confront inherited money stories, decision paralysis, and what it really takes to turn income into confidence—so money stops being the thing that holds them back. In this episode we uncover: • Why having “hundreds of thousands of dollars” can still feel like total financial chaos without a system • The emotional whiplash of going from paycheck-to-paycheck to sudden abundance • How Finn and Luna’s optimism vs. realism split shows up in every conversation about housing, investing, and location • Why crypto success without understanding risk creates false confidence • The real reason Luna pulled money out of investments and parked it in cash • How not knowing basic investing terms keeps progress stalled • Finn’s fear that California homeownership is a ticking time bomb • Monica and Antonio’s decision paralysis despite high income and zero debt • How generational trauma, bankruptcies, and lost homes shaped Monica’s daily money anxiety • Why Antonio believes earning more is the solution • The financial and emotional toll of supporting aging parents while raising young children • The hidden cost of being “responsible for everyone” and never prioritizing your own future • The shift from reacting emotionally to money toward making deliberate, shared financial decisions • What changes when money stops being mysterious Chapters: (00:00:00) “I’m a dreamer”—and he just wants a real plan (00:25:32) What happens when the optimizer stops optimizing at home? (00:33:01) “They gave up everything for us” (00:46:33) “We make great money—but it doesn’t feel like enough” (00:57:52) “I set the bar so high I can never win” (01:04:37) Where are they now? Both couples’ follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Bilt | Join the loyalty program for renters at https://joinbilt.com/ramit Shopify | Sign up for a $1 per month trial period at https://shopify.com/ramit Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist LMNT | Get a free 8-count Sample Pack with any LMNT order at https://drinklmnt.com/RAMIT Masterclass | Get up to 50% off Masterclass during the holiday season at https://masterclass.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Cheryl (67) and Michael (69) have built rich, full lives: multiple careers, reinventions, and nearly 12 years of marriage. Yet when it comes to money, they feel stuck. They earn about $120,000 a year, have roughly $600,000 saved, and regularly book $10,000–$15,000 vacations focused on travel, family, and experiences. Then, almost immediately, panic sets in. With mostly separate finances, lingering trust issues from past decisions, and no clear retirement plan, they’re embarrassed to admit that they don’t actually know when (or if) they can retire. Cheryl wants clarity and confidence about the future, while Michael wrestles with fear, guilt, and uncertainty around spending and security. Can Ramit help them stop oscillating between YOLO travel and financial anxiety, and finally create a plan that lets them enjoy life without fear? In this episode we uncover: • Why Cheryl and Michael can easily book $10K–$15K vacations, then immediately panic • How a “dream trip” exposes deeper confusion about what money they actually have access to • How Michael losing $12,000 from an inheritance investment triggered feelings of betrayal • Cheryl’s cancer survival and how living with mortality reshaped her urgency to travel, spend, and fully live now • Michael’s discomfort with seeing money as “real” unless it’s physically accessible • Why keeping finances mostly separate makes it nearly impossible to feel confident about retirement • The emotional weight of being the higher earner • How early family money stories still shape Michael’s decisions today • Cheryl’s journey from Wall Street wealth to purpose-driven work • Why spending in retirement feels scarier than earning ever did • How “YOLO travel” and hyper-frugality coexist • What their Conscious Spending Plan reveals about low fixed costs, high freedom, and misplaced fear • Why having a financial advisor still didn’t give them clarity or peace of mind Chapters: (00:00:00) “I’m just doing this for Cheryl” (00:23:13) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:45:23) “If we’re not on the same page, it’ll be an ugly retirement” (01:08:29) “Am I worth it now—or am I still that kid asking permission?” (01:10:01) “We never talked about money when we met” (01:23:10) “If we retire now… will it feel like freedom—or fear?” (01:36:38) Where are they now? Cheryl and Michael’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: ZocDoc | Download the ZocDoc app for FREE at https://zocdoc.com/ramit then find and book a top-rated doctor today #sponsored Leesa | Go to https://leesa.com for 20% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code RAMIT, exclusive for my listeners Factor | Get 50% off plus free shipping on your first box at https://factormeals.com/ramit50OFF with code RAMIT50OFF Facet | Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members, and for my audience, Facet is offering $300 into your brokerage account if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days. Head to https://facet.com/ramit to learn more about which membership option is best for you. Offer expires December 31, 2025. Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Today, we’re revisiting one of our favorite Money For Couples episodes of the year. Update: Romy and Travis recently shared an update on YouTube about where they are now. You can watch it here.  Romy and Travis’s story struck a chord with listeners because it shows what really happens when a couple is earning good money…but operating with completely different expectations, habits, and fears around money. This episode is a perfect example of how old patterns can quietly shape a relationship—and what it takes to break them. If you missed it the first time, or want a refresher, this is one of the most revealing conversations of the year. In this episode: • Why Travis believes he can always “go fishing” to make money • How their childhoods shaped their attitudes toward money • The emotional weight Romy carries as the only planner • The story behind Romy’s secret UK savings • Their unclear approach to buying property • How disorganized thinking affects everything from taxes to tipping • The risks of having no real emergency fund • Why Travis’s role as the “reassurer” holds them back • How Ramit helps them redefine generosity • The first steps toward rebuilding trust Chapters: 00:00 — “I tapped my card and it said insufficient funds” 09:23 — “I’m living the same financial life as my parents” 18:13 — Breaking down their numbers 38:14 — The weight of taking on the “man’s” role 52:48 — “I’ve been poor before—I’ll be poor again” 1:02:08 — Living on hope, not numbers 1:12:05 — “We’re doing this together” 1:28:56 — Where are they now? Romy & Travis Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit  • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Jamie (45) and Ryan (36) have been married for nearly a decade and share three kids, but their financial foundation was shaken when Ryan quit his high-paying finance job and cashed out his 401(k) without telling Jamie. Now earning far less, they’re still spending like nothing changed, running up credit card debt and ending each month wondering where the money went. Jamie, the higher earner, is anxious about retirement and trust after years of financial surprises, while Ryan avoids money conversations and struggles with insecurity. Layered on top are a 10-year age gap, deep past trauma, and very different visions of a Rich Life. Can Ramit help them rebuild trust, create a real plan, and finally start acting like partners instead of adversaries? In this episode we uncover: • The moment Jamie learned Ryan quit his high-paying job and cashed out his 401(k) • How Ryan’s breaking point at work led to a “nuclear option” decision that shifted stress from the office straight into their marriage Why earning nearly $300K still leaves them feeling broke • The trust fallout from repeated unilateral decisions, including quitting jobs, cashing out retirement accounts, and impulsive purchases • How Ryan’s spending on shoes, clothes, and even a classic car mirrors patterns he watched growing up • Jamie’s role as the default financial manager • The vacation-vs-things blame cycle that keeps them stuck spending instead of saving • Why hiding money in a separate savings account felt like the only way Jamie could protect their future • The uncomfortable truth behind their $13K emergency fund • How calling their own spending “stupid” and “dumb” keeps them trapped in shame instead of change • The emotional toll of living in constant financial vigilance while still spending freely on convenience and comfort • How a failed $500 spending rule exposed their lack of shared systems • The powerful influence of Midwestern money guilt, family secrecy, and conflicting childhood money messages • Jamie’s past divorce and financial trauma • The shift from adversaries to collaborators Chapters: (00:00:00) “We’ll just go our separate ways” (00:18:56) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:40:49) “Smart people can make stupid choices” (00:52:26) “Can we become a team again?” (01:02:09) “Is this a Rich Life—or just a really long to-do list?” (01:14:36) “You’ve turned dysfunction into permission” (01:28:57) “I’m bitter that I have to pay it off” (01:39:21) Where are they now? Jamie and Ryan’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist Trust & Will | Protect what matters most in minutes at https://trustandwill.com/ramit and get 10% off plus free shipping. Aura Frames | Use promo code RAMIT to get $35 off the best-selling Carver Mat frames at https://auraframes.com DeleteMe | If you want to get your personal information removed from the web, go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit for 20% off Rocket Money | Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at https://rocketmoney.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Ado (33) and Gabby (32) are exhausted by a cycle they can’t seem to escape: getting into credit card debt, paying it off, and then ending up right back where they started. Now, with $44,000 in credit card balances, student loans on both sides, and an $1,800 monthly daycare bill, they feel one setback away from losing everything. Ado’s avoidant, live-in-the-moment approach clashes with Gabby’s desire for structure and long-term security. Both come from financially chaotic childhoods, and those old patterns are replaying in their marriage. They dream of moving to Europe and building stability for their young daughter—but can they break the cycle that’s defined their entire relationship? This episode asks: What will it take for them to finally stop the spiral and create a plan that lasts? In this episode we uncover: • Why Ado and Gabby keep finding themselves back in credit card debt • How their “dance” of overspending, working extra, and then trying to catch up has cost them thousands • The emotional toll on Gabby as she tries to break a cycle that feels unsustainable • Why Ramit pushes them to examine their spending through the lens of their daughter watching and learning their habits • Taking apart their monthly budget line by line • The $170 date nights, lattes, Costco trips, and Target runs that add up • Gabby’s realization that overspending isn’t just about Ado • Ado’s upbringing as a Bosnian refugee, and how frugality, scarcity, and parental sacrifice shaped his desire to enjoy life • How childhood experiences continue to shape Gabby’s budgeting, anxiety, and need for security today • How both partners absorb social norms around spending and treat exhaustion as a justification for impulse purchases • The truth about using their savings account as a checking account • The staggering $3,075/month they spend on debt payments • Their dream of moving to Europe being pushed back year after year • The emotional rupture of realizing one missed paycheck could destabilize everything they’ve built Chapters: (00:00:00) “We never tell ourselves no” (00:17:24) “It’s not just about paying off debt” (00:33:21) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:48:21) “I feel like it gives me comfort” (01:02:26) “Money was a weapon” (01:12:53) “Denial lasts a week, vision lasts a lifetime” (01:32:00) “Nobody making this much should have credit card debt” (01:36:45) Where are they now? Ado and Gabby’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Aura Frames | Use promo code RAMIT to get $35 off the best-selling Carver Mat frames at https://auraframes.com Masterclass | Get up to 50% off Masterclass during the holiday season at https://masterclass.com/ramit Facet | Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members, and for my audience, Facet is offering $300 into your brokerage account if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days. Head to https://facet.com/ramit to learn more about which membership option is best for you. Offer expires December 31, 2025 Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Wildgrain | Get $30 off the first box — PLUS free Croissants in every box — at https://wildgrain.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • Join my event “Becoming Time Rich” on December 18th at 8pm ET. Register at https://iwt.com/timerich Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Karen (45) and Chad (44) built their lives around a high income: buying their dream home in a high-cost city and raising three kids with confidence in the future. But when Chad lost his $340K tech job, everything changed. Three years later, he’s earning half as much, their emergency savings are gone, and they’re borrowing just to stay afloat. Karen lies awake fearing they’re one paycheck away from losing the house, while Chad stays optimistic that a future promotion or windfall will fix everything. Their conversations remain polite but distant, masking deep anxiety, resentment, and two completely different philosophies on money. Can Ramit help them confront reality, reconnect emotionally, and decide whether they can afford to keep the home they love? In this episode we uncover: • How Chad’s income dropped by 50% overnight • The emotional toll of pretending “everything is fine” while secretly fearing they can’t make the mortgage • Why even buying kids’ necessities fills Karen with guilt • Why Chad defaults to thinking “maybe we’re just poor for a while” • The dangerous gap between their public optimism and the reality Karen wrote in her application • How Karen and Chad communicate like polite coworkers instead of partners • The childhood roots that shaped their opposing money philosophies • Why living with zero savings and three children is far more dangerous than Chad realizes • The breakthrough: shifting from tracking numbers to actually making meaning from their spending and fears Chapters: (00:00:00) “We’re one paycheck away from disaster” (00:17:12) “Here we go again” (00:26:21) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:37:22) “I’m looking for solutions, not platitudes” (00:49:47) “Why aren’t you more relaxed with less money?” (01:01:11) “Is the house on fire?” (01:19:32) Where are they now? Karen and Chad’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Bilt | Join the loyalty program for renters at https://joinbilt.com/ramit Aura Frames | Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/RAMIT. Promo Code RAMIT Wispr Flow | Try it for free at https://wisprflow.ai/ramit Gelt | Skip the waitlist at https://joingelt.com/ramit Netsuite | Get the free guide “Demystifying AI” at https://netsuite.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • Design your Rich Life for the New Year at my virtual event. Grab your seat at https://iwt.com/richlifereview Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Alex (34) and Jackie (33) have been married for 11 years, raising four young kids while navigating a financial dynamic that’s been strained for nearly as long. Alex is meticulous and cautious — he’s tracked every expense since 2016 — while Jackie follows her instincts and believes God will provide. But when she secretly enrolled in a $5,000 coaching program and later pushed for a $16,000 photography course, Alex’s trust shattered. Now he feels like he’s carrying the entire financial load, while Jackie feels discouraged and untrusted. Their arguments spill into daily life, even in front of their kids. Can Ramit help them rebuild trust, confront their conflicting money beliefs, and finally create a system that brings peace instead of panic? In this episode we uncover: • Why Alex has tracked every dollar since 2016—and how control became his default coping strategy • Jackie’s belief that “money will come” and the role faith plays in her financial decisions • How a secret $5,000 coaching purchase shattered Alex’s sense of safety • The emotional toll of raising four young kids while constantly feeling financially behind • How Jackie’s childhood of scarcity and inconsistent money messages shaped her impulse-driven spending • How Alex’s upbringing around saving, stability, and tithing taught him to equate control with security • Why relying on miracles and unexpected windfalls creates a fragile financial foundation • Jackie’s desire to feel heard, supported, and validated—instead of managed • Why Alex feels lonely and burdened in the role of financial gatekeeper • How a shared money system can shift them from crisis-mode to long-term partnership • The first steps they take toward rebuilding trust, financial clarity, and a plan they can both commit to Chapters: (00:00:00) “Do you trust each other?” (00:17:40) “We had $300 and no plan” (00:29:15) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:37:15) “If we just made more, everything would change” (00:50:52) “I wasn’t taught to dream — just to survive” (00:58:53) “Hope isn’t a financial strategy” (01:07:33) “I want the positive behavior without the crisis” (01:16:36) “The house is on fire” (01:29:07) “That changes everything” (01:36:56) Where are they now? Alex and Jackie’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Gusto | Try Gusto at https://gusto.com/ramit and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll Leesa | Go to https://leesa.com for 30% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code RAMIT, exclusive for my listeners Factor | Go to https://factormeals.com/ramit50OFF and use code RAMIT50OFF to get 50% off your first box, plus free breakfast for 1 year Rocket Money | Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at https://rocketmoney.com/ramit Trust & Will | Protect what matters most in minutes at https://trustandwill.com/ramit and get 10% off plus free shipping Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching. Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Imani (52) and Michael (65) return for Part 2—and this time, Ramit pushes them to find out how fast they can turn things around. After years of miscommunication, mounting debt, and emotional exhaustion, they’ve finally started tackling their finances together. But when Facet’s retirement scenarios reveal how long their money will really last, they’re forced to confront new tradeoffs: spend less now, retire later, or change their lifestyle entirely. Can Michael step up and lead? Can Imani release control and start dreaming again? Or will their old habits slow their progress before it even begins? A special thanks to Facet for sponsoring this episode. Right now, Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members. And if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days, they’ll add $300 to your brokerage account. Head to facet.com/ramit to see which membership—Core, Plus, or Complete—is right for you. (Ramit is not a member of Facet, and he has an incentive to endorse Facet as he has an ongoing fee based contract for cash compensation based on this endorsement. All opinions are his own and not a guarantee of a similar outcome.) In this episode we uncover: • Why Michael finally decides to take ownership after decades of financial avoidance • The moment Imani says she’s “tapping out” if things don’t change • How they discover Michael’s electronics obsession is more than clutter—it’s avoidance • The shocking realization that their debt payments eat up one-third of their take-home pay • How selling off $7,000 of electronics became the turning point for their marriage • What it felt like for Imani to finally let go of control and let Michael lead • Why teamwork and a clear plan helped them pay off $6,000 in just four weeks • How both partners confront what “enough” really means • The couple’s new shared dream: retiring abroad and living a simpler, freer life Chapters: (00:00:03) “I’m angry at Michael, I’m angry at myself” (00:18:03) “I’ve lost the ability to dream” (00:34:45) “It’s gotta work” (00:40:17) “I got the fever to start selling stuff” (00:51:47) “I could see the cloud starting to separate” (01:06:29) “I feel excited, inspired, energized” (01:22:39) Where are they now? Imani and Michael’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: Wispr Flow | Voice-to-text AI that turns speech into clear, polished writing in any app. Try it for free at https://wisprflow.ai/ramit Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist MasterClass | For unlimited access to every class and up to 50% off an annual membership, go to https://masterclass.com/ramit ZocDoc | Download the ZocDoc app for FREE at https://zocdoc.com/ramit then find and book a top-rated doctor today #sponsored Shopify | Sign up for a $1 per month trial period at https://shopify.com/ramit Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Imani (52) and Michael (65) have been married for 24 years—and they’re drowning in nearly $126,000 of consumer debt despite earning over $250,000 a year. Imani, a disciplined attorney who tracks every dollar, feels trapped by Michael’s unchecked spending on electronics and his laid-back approach to money. She dreams of travel, freedom, and a life that finally feels generous, while he insists everything’s fine as long as the bills get paid. With resentment growing and Imani nearing her breaking point, Ramit challenges them to face the truth: Can they pay off their debt, rebuild trust, and start enjoying life again—or are they too stuck in old patterns to change? A special thanks to Facet for sponsoring this episode. Right now, Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members. And if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days, they’ll add $300 to your brokerage account. Head to facet.com/ramit to see which membership—Core, Plus, or Complete—is right for you. (Ramit is not a member of Facet, and he has an incentive to endorse Facet as he has an ongoing fee based contract for cash compensation based on this endorsement. All opinions are his own and not a guarantee of a similar outcome.) In this episode we uncover: • Why Imani regrets combining finances after 20 years of marriage • How Michael’s promise to “put the money back” reveals a lifetime of avoidance • The stark contrast between Michael’s military discipline and total lack of structure at home • What happens when one partner outgrows the other in ambition, discipline, and self-development • Why Imani admits she’s embarrassed to be in massive debt at her age • Michael’s habit of buying cars and electronics to celebrate milestones • How their $268,000 income still leaves them feeling broke, anxious, and behind • Why Imani clings to control and spreadsheets while Michael tunes out completely • How both partners confront the question: Can they rebuild trust and create structure before it’s too late? Chapters: (00:00:00) “Did you go to Best Buy again?” (00:17:34) “I don’t think I’ve ever planned anything in my life” (00:24:43) “Every time we had a kid, he bought a car” (00:36:48) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:44:33) “We make way too much to be this stressed about money” (00:56:21) “I don’t want to do life by myself” (01:10:51) Can a couple this far apart still find common ground? This episode is brought to you by: Gusto | Try Gusto at https://gusto.com/ramit and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll DeleteMe | If you want to get your personal information removed from the web, go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit for 20% off Notion | Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at https://notion.com/ramit Wildgrain | Get $30 off the first box — PLUS free Croissants in every box — at https://wildgrain.com/ramit LMNT | Get a free 8-count Sample Pack with any LMNT order at https://drinklmnt.com/RAMIT Links mentioned in this episode • Join my Money Coaching program for monthly help: https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.

Samantha (36) and Kevin (41) have been together for seven years, but their financial lives couldn’t look more different. He’s a high earner with $800,000 in investments and a paid-down mortgage. She’s still carrying student loans, car payments, and lingering shame about being “behind.” While Kevin saves methodically for the future, Samantha prefers to spend on experiences—especially travel—leaving him questioning whether their financial priorities will ever align. Beneath the surface, neither of them has truly learned how to talk about money without shutting down. Can Ramit help them move from avoidance and resentment to shared goals and real plans for the future? A special thanks to Ultraspeaking, who worked with Samantha and Kevin to help them communicate more effectively as a couple. Ultraspeaking is the fastest and most effective way to become a great communicator. Learn more here. In this episode we uncover: • Why Samantha believes she’ll never be “financially good enough” for Kevin • How their shared avoidant tendencies have allowed them to avoid financial planning for years • How their unspoken expectations around “fairness” create tension • Samantha’s logic for not paying rent or mortgage • How Kevin’s quiet resentment built up after Samantha didn’t use the housing savings to pay down debt • The real cost of their “guilt-free” spending, including $15,000/year on vacations • Why Samantha still feels broke, despite earning $148,000 a year • Samantha’s fears about not meeting Kevin’s expectations in retirement • The stark contrast between their savings: Samantha has one month of expenses, Kevin has six • How Samantha inherited a “spend it if you have it” mindset from her parents • Kevin’s fear of loss from divorce and why he avoids fully committing financially • The role of therapy in helping them rebuild communication and trust Chapters: (00:00:00) “I’ll never be financially good enough for Kevin” (00:13:39) “I feel like I have no say because he owns the house” (00:27:08) Ramit breaks down their numbers (00:37:44) “I still feel like I’m only making $50,000” (00:43:59) “Money burned a hole in my pocket” (01:03:09) “That’s the bed I made and I will lie in it” (01:08:25) “Closing doors is hard…but staying stuck is harder” (01:15:59) “It’s not about catching up — it’s about building together” (01:37:50) Where are they now? Samantha and Kevin’s follow-ups This episode is brought to you by: NetSuite | Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://netsuite.com/ramit Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit Gelt | Book a tax consultation with Gelt at https://joingelt.com/ramit. As a member of my community, you can skip the waitlist DeleteMe | If you want to get your personal information removed from the web, go to https://joindeleteme.com/ramit for 20% off Facet | Facet is waiving their $250 enrollment fee for new annual members, and for my audience, Facet is offering $300 into your brokerage account if you invest and maintain $5,000 within your first 90 days. Head to https://facet.com/ramit to learn more about which membership option is best for you Links mentioned in this episode • If you want help with your finances, join my Money Coaching program at https://iwt.com/moneycoaching Connect with Ramit • Get my new book, Money For Couples • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here.