Podcasts > I Will Teach You To Be Rich

I Will Teach You To Be Rich • Ramit Sethi

Imagine listening in on these raw, unfiltered conversations with real couples… One partner is in $300,000 in debt, but shrugs it off. The other cries at night, anxious about the future. A couple that’s so worried about money, they never feel they’ll have enough. When they eat out, they order chicken instead of steak to save $10. Their household income: $600,000. Two parents who feel overwhelmed by work, kids, and debt. When I ask them how they’d describe their lives, they instantly say the same word: “Stuck.” Ramit Sethi asks the questions we wish we all could ask, presenting a totally different philosophy on money: • Spend extravagantly on the things you love, as long as you cut costs mercilessly on the things you don’t. • Ask $30,000 questions, not $3 questions. • A Rich Life is more than math -- it’s mastering your money psychology. From the author of the bestselling book, ‘I Will Teach You To Be Rich,’ learn how money psychology affects these couples… and how to create your own Rich Life.

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I Will Teach You To Be Rich • Ramit Sethi

Episodes

  • 209. “We bought a house we can’t afford, now what?”

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, financial expert Ramit Sethi examines a couple's challenging financial situation. With a combined income of $179,000, Sonny and Jasmine face significant debt, minimal savings, and a house purchase that stretches their budget beyond sustainable limits. The couple's story highlights how personal circumstances and emotional factors can influence major financial decisions, sometimes overshadowing practical considerations.

    Sethi explores the relationship dynamics affecting their financial health, including their differing approaches to money management and the imbalance in their financial responsibilities. The episode covers their recent attempts to improve their situation through practical changes, such as reducing fixed costs, while also addressing deeper issues like career development and financial communication between partners.

    May 20, 2025

  • 208. “We make $157K at 22, but we’re afraid to spend money”

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, financial expert Ramit Sethi examines a unique case of two 22-year-olds who earn a combined $157,000 but struggle with spending decisions. The couple's contrasting financial upbringings have shaped their current attitudes toward money, with one partner influenced by opposing parental views and the other dealing with lingering effects of a late start in personal finance.

    The episode explores how the couple navigates financial decisions, from daily expenses to long-term planning. Despite their young age, they've accumulated significant investments and maintain low fixed costs, yet they hesitate to spend on immediate experiences. Sethi addresses their communication challenges around money, their income disparity, and questions whether their aggressive saving might be preventing them from enjoying life in the present.

    May 13, 2025

  • 207. “I’m 40, burned out, and don’t know what’s next in my life”

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, Ramit Sethi speaks with a couple facing significant life changes as they approach military retirement. With a net worth of $715,000 built over 20 years of service, Ray and Courtney have maintained strong financial habits, including consistent investments and careful budgeting. However, they struggle to define what their ideal life looks like beyond the practical aspects of money management.

    The conversation explores the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, including the impact of frequent relocations on their family and the process of finding new career opportunities. Sethi helps the couple examine their relationship with spending and saving, encouraging them to consider how they might balance their prudent financial planning with experiences that bring them joy, such as travel and entertainment.

    May 6, 2025

  • 206. “I quit my job to care for our son, but can we afford it?”

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, a couple shares their story of adapting to major life changes after their son's heart condition diagnosis. The conversation explores how they navigated the transition from a dual-income household earning $265,000 to a single income of $150,000, while managing medical expenses and maintaining their lifestyle through savings.

    Ramit Sethi discusses their financial situation, addressing topics such as accepting parental financial support, managing current expenses, and planning for retirement. The episode examines how the couple balances their immediate needs with long-term financial goals, including their potential to build significant retirement savings and opportunities to generate additional income through freelance work.

    Apr 29, 2025

  • 205. “I've been homeless before…I'm terrified to spend money”

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, Ramit Sethi examines how different money mindsets can create tension between partners. Through a discussion with Jennifer and Steve, Sethi explores how their contrasting views on money—one seeing it as a source of joy and freedom, the other viewing it primarily as security—affect their relationship and financial decisions.

    The episode delves into how past experiences shape current financial perspectives, with Steve's history of homelessness contributing to his scarcity mindset despite the couple's healthy financial situation. Sethi addresses these challenges by introducing practical solutions, including the concept of "guilt-free spending" and suggesting strategies for improving financial communication between partners. The discussion includes specific recommendations for building trust and achieving harmonious finances through joint accounts and couples therapy.

    Apr 22, 2025

  • 204. “We make $226K—but our kids think we’re broke”

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi counsels a couple, Lisa and Marcus, who struggle with open communication around finances. Despite earning a high income, their differing money mindsets—stemming from childhood experiences—often lead to arguments and avoidance of the topic.

    Sethi helps Lisa and Marcus establish ground rules for constructive financial discussions. By encouraging an understanding of each other's perspectives, he guides them toward making collaborative decisions, such as the symbolic truck purchase. The episode also highlights the profound impact of a couple's money behaviors on their children, emphasizing the importance of fostering healthy financial attitudes for the next generation.

    Apr 15, 2025

  • 203. “He makes 3x more, but wants to split everything 50/50”

    This episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast explores the financial challenges faced by Katie and Robin, a couple with a significant income disparity. With Robin earning three times more than Katie, the couple grapples with dividing expenses, managing discretionary spending, and transitioning to a "we" mindset when it comes to their finances.

    The discussion sheds light on the stress and potential resentment caused by unequal incomes, as well as the importance of open communication and aligned financial goals. It offers insights into navigating financial dynamics within relationships, addressing sensitive topics such as secrecy around spending, and finding fair arrangements that work for both partners.

    Apr 8, 2025

  • 202. “She racked up $50K in debt — why should I trust her with money?”

    On the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, financial expert Ramit Sethi examines common couple struggles related to money management. He dissects the "chaser-avoider" dynamic that impacts decision-making around spending habits, debt repayment, and long-term financial planning.

    Sethi breaks down specific areas of friction—like discretionary spending, aspirational purchases, and prioritizing retirement versus home ownership—offering advice on setting shared goals and values through consistent communication. The episode provides a framework for couples to realistically evaluate their financial situation, make informed choices, and collaborate in managing their finances successfully.

    Apr 1, 2025

  • 201. “I make $40k… but I own 100+ suits”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, Ramit Sethi explores the financial dynamics of young and older couples in New York City. He examines how the city's high cost of living shapes perceptions of wealth, leading outsiders to misunderstand local financial realities.

    Sethi delves into the financial challenges faced by couples with varying income levels and offers insights on communication, collaboration, and empowerment in financial decision-making. He shares strategies for addressing issues like disproportionate incomes, debt management, and setting shared financial goals while maintaining balanced partnerships.

    Mar 25, 2025

  • 200. “Should we pay off our massive debt? Or invest more?”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, a couple shares the differing money mindsets that make joint financial decisions a challenge. Shannon's focus on financial security and debt repayment clashes with Wilson's openness to leverage assets for investment opportunities. Their contrasting perspectives, rooted in childhood experiences and upbringing, lead to a stalemate when weighing options like taking a second mortgage.

    While their net worth exceeds $1.6 million, balancing immediate debt obligations with long-term growth plans proves difficult. The episode explores how inherited "money scripts" from families can shape partners' approaches to risk, ultimately impeding true listening and alignment on shared financial goals.

    Mar 18, 2025

  • 199. “I struggle w/ cc debt but insisted on a Cartier wedding ring”

    This episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast explores the dynamics of debt, communication, and spending habits in relationships. You'll hear the story of Jay and Sarah as they navigate the challenges of paying off Jay's sizable debt burden before marriage. While Sarah advocates for frugality, Jay's background in luxury hotels has shaped his taste for indulgences like an expensive wedding ring.

    The episode also highlights communication issues between couples Giselle and Robert, underscoring the importance of open financial dialogues. Ramit Sethi provides insights into setting shared financial goals, finding compromise between differing money values, and taking responsibility for spending decisions. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to have candid conversations about finances and align spending habits with their relationships' collective priorities.

    Mar 11, 2025

  • 198. “I work 7 jobs but can’t get ahead. Are we doomed?”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, host Ramit Sethi explores the contrasting financial histories and mindsets of a couple, Juan and Amber. The discussion delves into the emotional baggage that can influence one's approach to finances, undervaluing skills, managing debt and investments, balancing family obligations, and strategies for generating higher income.

    Sethi offers advice on pricing skills appropriately, aggressively investing for retirement, setting boundaries with family financial obligations, and making tough choices like selling assets to align spending with long-term goals. The episode sheds light on how past experiences shape financial behaviors and provides practical tips to overcome limiting mindsets and build wealth.

    Mar 4, 2025

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  • 197. “I thought he was the problem… but it’s me?!”

    In this episode from the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, Ramit Sethi addresses common tensions around money that couples face. He dissects the underlying dynamics between a couple, Evelyn and Mike, and their differing attitudes towards spending habits and financial transparency.

    Sethi provides insights into Evelyn's frugal mindset, stemming from her wealthy but financially illiterate upbringing. He highlights the importance of open communication, emotional intelligence, and building trust rather than imposing strict budgets. Ultimately, Sethi advocates for teamwork and understanding as the foundation for resolving money differences within relationships.

    Feb 25, 2025

  • 196. “He used to help me with debt…Now he’s making it worse”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, Ramit Sethi helps a couple, Frank and Jill, navigate their financial challenges stemming from contrasting childhood experiences with money. Despite their high income, the couple faces substantial credit card debt and a lack of savings due to their divergent spending habits and communication breakdowns around finances.

    Sethi delves into the root causes of their issues, offering strategies to align their financial goals and rebuild trust in their relationship. From drastically reducing expenses and increasing income to automating savings and budgeting, Sethi provides a roadmap for Frank and Jill to regain control of their finances and chart a path towards a secure future together.

    Feb 18, 2025

  • 195. “Her socks have holes but she's too cheap to buy new ones”

    While Matt and Eliza have impressive incomes and savings, the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast explores their deeply ingrained frugal mindsets and reluctance to spend even on small indulgences. Despite their wealth, they avoid expenses like housekeeping due to guilt about drawing from investments or forgoing future experiences.

    Ramit Sethi addresses their scarcity mentality, encouraging them to view money as a means of enriching their lives, not just saving for the future. He advises aligning their spending with meaningful priorities while shedding self-imposed frugal identities that limit happiness. The conversation navigates the delicate balance between prudent saving and enjoying the present.

    Feb 11, 2025

  • 194. “$0 savings, $0 investments. Is it too late for us?” (Part 2)

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, personal finance expert Ramit Sethi addresses the financial struggles of a couple, Lakeisha and James, who have no savings or investments but carry a combined debt of $190,000. Despite their substantial combined income, they lack spending discipline and squander a significant portion on impulsive purchases and frequent dining out.

    Sethi provides recommendations to improve their financial situation, stressing the importance of decisive action and honest financial dialogue. He also delves into the couple's relationship dynamics, highlighting the need for mutual support while treating each other as capable adults in their financial decision-making. Additionally, Sethi examines Lakeisha's history of conflict avoidance and its impact on their finances, underscoring the potential costs of avoiding tough conversations about money.

    Feb 4, 2025

  • 193. “I’ve filed for bankruptcy twice. Will I ever stop spending?” (Part 1)

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, callers Lakisha and James share details about their current financial situations—riddled with debt and impulsive spending. The discussion delves into how their upbringings shaped their contrasting mindsets around money, with Lakisha's mother's gambling addiction fostering a disposable view of money, while James's father instilled a survivalist mentality of living paycheck-to-paycheck.

    Despite recognizing the need for change, the couple struggles with open communication about their finances. Lakisha often seeks external validation for her spending decisions rather than developing confidence in managing her money independently. As Lakisha and James navigate their path towards financial stability, the episode explores the psychological and emotional factors that can influence one's relationship with money.

    Jan 28, 2025

  • 192. “We spend 98% of what we make—Where is it all going?”

    Despite a substantial income, Justin and Deepika were stuck in a cycle of credit card debt and living paycheck to paycheck, failing to understand where their money was going. In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, Ramit Sethi guides them through a transformation.

    After reviewing their finances, Sethi helps Justin and Deepika get clarity by canceling costly insurance policies, setting up emergency savings, and aligning their spending with goals like homeownership. By adopting Sethi's system of weekly money meetings and simplified investments, the couple shifts from financial confusion to empowerment — seamlessly allocating funds while guilt-free spending within a clear plan.

    Jan 21, 2025

  • 191. “My wife doesn't respect me because she earns 5x more”

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi explores the complex dynamics surrounding money mindsets and relationship tensions.

    The guests, Carrie and Dylan, have a strong financial position but different attitudes towards money—Carrie's scarcity mindset clashes with Dylan's relaxed outlook. Their exchange highlights how contrasting financial values can breed disrespect, undermine confidence, and hinder shared goal-setting within a relationship.

    Ramit examines budgeting priorities and helps the couple reevaluate spending habits in light of their actual net worth and projected retirement savings. The discussion sheds light on aligning money attitudes to live a fulfilling "rich life" together.

    Jan 14, 2025

  • 190. “Is our relationship going to end on air?”

    This episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast explores the financial dynamics between partners Maggie and Justin, who maintain completely separate finances despite their relationship and business ventures. Host Ramit Sethi delves into the challenges caused by their lack of open communication about money matters, including commingled expenses, trust issues stemming from different spending habits and financial support expectations, and conflicting financial goals and priorities.

    The discussion highlights the importance of collaborative financial planning and decision-making for couples. Sethi advises Maggie and Justin to combine their resources, create a shared financial plan, and regularly review their finances together - steps that could help rebuild trust and foster a more unified approach to managing their intertwined personal and professional situations.

    Jan 7, 2025

  • 189. “People definitely called me out”: Nate & Serena return 2 years later

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, hosts revisit Nate and Serena, a couple featured previously, to explore their remarkable financial progress over the past two years. Nate and Serena reflect on their transformative money mindset shifts, moving away from fear and limiting beliefs to embrace empowering financial goals.

    The couple shares insights into improved communication and teamwork around finances within their relationship. They candidly discuss strategies for managing major life transitions and expenses, like planning a wedding and preparing for upcoming salary changes to tackle debts. Despite challenges, Nate and Serena achieved impressive financial milestones by adopting sound habits—a testament to the podcast's advice on aligning spending with values for lasting success.

    Dec 31, 2024

  • 188. “She makes 2x but wants me to treat her” Nate and Serena return

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi sits down with Serena and Nate, a couple facing financial tensions due to an income disparity and differing communication styles around money. The conversation delves into the emotional issues and past experiences that underlie their struggles with splitting expenses fairly and addressing Nate's significant student debt.

    As they anticipate Nate's transition from a medical residency earning $45,000 to a $300,000+ salary as a doctor, Serena and Nate discuss the need to develop a shared financial vision and approach. Sethi offers guidance on navigating this substantial income increase through strategic saving, investing, and open communication about their evolving financial dynamics.

    Dec 24, 2024

  • 187. “We’re worth $87M, Why are we arguing over credit card bills?”

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, Victoria and David—a couple with a combined net worth of $87 million—explore their struggles with scarcity mindsets and limiting beliefs around money. Despite their significant wealth, they carry the trauma of their parents' business failures and find themselves arguing over seemingly trivial expenses.

    Host Ramit Sethi guides them through strategies to overcome these ingrained mindsets. He encourages them to embrace an abundance mentality, combine their finances, and adopt a shared vision for their desired "rich life." The episode offers practical steps for couples to improve their financial partnership, including setting up joint accounts, regular "money dates," and proactively planning for specific goals.

    Dec 17, 2024

  • 186. “Was it a huge mistake to sell our house?”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, Ramit Sethi addresses a couple's conflicting money management styles and their rushed decision to sell a home. He identifies issues like lack of a clear financial vision, ineffective budgeting, and insufficient savings and investments.

    Ramit guides the couple through developing a shared financial plan focused on saving, reducing debt, budgeting for expenses, and adjusting for future changes like buying a new home. He emphasizes making proactive decisions together based on their joint goals and values, rather than passively tracking money in and out.

    Dec 10, 2024

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  • 185. “My fiancé has no savings at 43. Should we get married?”

    Dawn, 48, and her fiancé Richard, 43, grapple with conflicting financial perspectives rooted in their pasts. In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi addresses their situation, diving into the strain caused by Dawn's overspending habits and Richard's financial trauma.

    As Dawn earns significantly more but struggles with saving, Ramit advises her on setting financial boundaries. He guides her on curbing spending on her children, enhancing retirement contributions, and rebuilding a secure future through open conversations and strategic sacrifices.

    Dec 3, 2024

  • 184. “I survived a plane crash. Is stressing about money really worth it?”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, the differences in financial attitudes and spending behaviors between a couple are examined. Chloe, raised affluently, aims to maintain a lavish lifestyle, while Ryan, from a frugal background, is cautious about spending. Their contrasting upbringings have deeply ingrained opposing money mindsets that persist despite their current financial success.

    The episode explores how the couple navigates balancing saving and spending habits to find fulfillment. Chloe recognizes the need to utilize their wealth for quality experiences, while Ryan grapples with overcoming ingrained fears and guilt around spending. Their journey to reconcile these opposing financial perspectives, while strengthening their relationship, is highlighted.

    Nov 26, 2024

  • 183. “I saved $5k for an engagement ring, but she secretly took the money”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, host Ramit Sethi explores a listener's struggle with overwhelming debt and its impact on her relationship. Michelle, burdened by $263,000 in loans and credit card debt, has avoided open communication about finances with her partner Matt for years, straining their plans to marry and start a family.

    Sethi delves into the origins of Michelle's troubled "money mindset," tracing it back to her parents' dynamics around finances. He provides practical guidance on rebuilding transparency, creating a debt repayment plan, and aligning financial goals as a couple through improved communication and, if needed, counseling. The episode offers insights into addressing deep-seated money issues impeding financial and relationship progress.

    Nov 19, 2024

  • 182. “We’re $350k in debt & have no savings. Will I have to work until we die?”

    Don and Tana, near their fifties and long accustomed to a life of financial strain, face a new challenge -- managing sudden wealth after Don's career quadrupled their income. The episode explores the emotional toll and psychological barriers of this drastic financial shift. Despite a high-income potential, they carry substantial debt and lack savings or investments.

    The podcast delves into the impact of their backgrounds and values -- frugality, nonprofit work, giving-focused spirituality -- on their 'scarcity mindset.' Ramit advises strategies to build healthy money habits, pay off debts systematically, and find balance between generous living and responsible wealth management. He proposes allocating portions towards retirement, savings, and guilt-free spending to foster a mindset befitting their newfound abundance.

    Nov 12, 2024

  • 181. “We argue about money daily b/c he can’t stop talking about Ramit”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, host Ramit Sethi analyzes a couple's financial management approach. He observes that Nathan exhibits deep-rooted insecurity around money, stemming from his frugal upbringing. Sethi recommends therapy to address Nathan's psychological relationship with finances.

    The host also critiques Nathan and Linda's overly detailed budgeting strategy, advising them to simplify by focusing on key metrics like income and savings rate. Additionally, Sethi suggests temporarily reducing their aggressive retirement contributions to balance immediate needs like childcare expenses with long-term goals. The episode explores finding a middle ground between rigorous financial planning and accommodating life's realities.

    Nov 5, 2024

  • 180. "We have $30k in cc debt but insist on sending our son to private school"

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, the host discusses the case study of a couple who face challenges in communicating openly about finances and managing their spending. Despite a substantial net worth, the couple's financial habits, driven by a desire to provide opportunities for their son, result in significant debt and minimal savings.

    The conversation explores the dynamics of the couple's relationship, where one partner avoids financial discussions due to past negative experiences, while the other feels burdened by managing their finances alone. The host delves into the role of wealth - whether acquired through diligent saving or luck - in shaping the couple's attitudes towards money management and long-term financial planning.

    Oct 29, 2024

  • 179. “He just turned 50 and we have no savings. I’m panicking.”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, Ramit Sethi addresses a couple's significant financial challenges stemming from dysfunctional money behaviors and relationship dynamics around finances. Kate and Drew face $480,000 in debt, lack an emergency fund, and have insufficient retirement savings despite a high income.

    Sethi highlights their need for a unified financial vision and shared money values to align priorities like debt repayment, saving, and retirement planning. He guides them in making tough decisions to cut discretionary spending, build an emergency fund, and involve their children in money lessons—steps towards long-term financial health.

    The episode underscores the importance of open communication, financial education, and couples working as equals on their finances. It provides tools for developing healthy financial habits and addressing underlying issues that often hinder couples from reaching their goals.

    Oct 22, 2024

  • 178. How to Get on the Same Page with Your Partner about Money

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, Ramit Sethi addresses the challenges couples face in discussing finances openly. He guides two couples through exercises to help them express their contrasting money experiences and aspirations, highlighting the importance of acknowledging feelings for a healthier financial dialogue.

    Sethi also shares strategies to align couples' financial goals, such as crafting a shared vision focused on the meaning behind experiences. By involving the audience, he encourages couples to have constructive conversations about how they can use their wealth to enhance their lives.

    Oct 15, 2024

  • 177. “We’re stressed about cash flow—but I refuse to sell any of my 8 cars” (Part 2)

    In this episode of I Will Teach You To Be Rich, the podcast host Ramit Sethi counsels a couple expecting their first child on financial planning. The discussion centers on establishing an emergency fund for the baby's expenses, paying off debt, and aligning on shared financial values for quality family time.

    Sethi advises the couple to create a dedicated "baby fund," pay off credit card debt aggressively before the baby arrives, and have transparent communication about managing spending. The couple aims to prioritize family time while reducing financial risks. Sethi stresses the importance of setting specific budgets, defining financial goals collaboratively, and establishing clear rules around debt and allowances to strengthen the couple's partnership.

    Oct 8, 2024

  • 176. “I’m 8 mos pregnant. He only wants to talk about how much the baby will cost”

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, Ramit Sethi examines the financial dynamics between Megan and Jason, an expectant couple who maintain separate finances. Sethi explores the challenges of transparent money discussions and aligning priorities when individual interests and spending habits differ.

    Megan's unresolved childhood traumas around money contribute to her protective mindset and overspending tendencies. As the arrival of their child nears, Sethi underscores the urgency for Megan and Jason to establish collaborative financial systems and communication to navigate their changing lifestyle effectively.

    Oct 1, 2024

  • 175. “I make 5x my bf’s salary—but I’m about to lose my job”

    On this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi explores the challenges faced by a couple with contrasting money mindsets. Mindy employs a meticulous, analytical approach to finances, while Victor embraces a more casual attitude. Sethi delves into the tensions arising from their divergent financial behaviors and priorities, as well as their difficulties communicating effectively about money.

    The couple's differing attitudes extend to lifestyle goals, with Mindy desiring an affluent lifestyle and Victor preferring simplicity. As Mindy faces job loss, Sethi examines how this external financial change tests their ability to navigate uncertainty and function as a team. The episode underscores the importance of mutual understanding and partnership in managing shared finances.

    Sep 24, 2024

  • 174. “We make $300k but spend like we make $1M”

    In this episode of the I Will Teach You To Be Rich podcast, host Ramit Sethi examines a couple's unhealthy relationship with money characterized by avoidance, reckless spending, and lack of financial discipline. Despite earning a high income, Kathleen and Forrest's overspending habits, combined with a staggering $65,000 credit card debt, leave them struggling to afford small luxuries.

    After confronting their minimization of the problem, Sethi guides them through establishing a new "rich life vision" focused on spending within their means. He advises aggressive debt repayment, automating finances, and cutting unnecessary costs. Initially resistant, the couple eventually commits to Sethi's recommendations, empowering them to make positive changes in their financial journey.

    Sep 17, 2024

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  • 173. “We spend 113% of what we make—but can’t do anything to fix it” (Part 2)

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, a couple shares their financial struggles stemming from excessive spending on their three young children. Their monthly expenses, including $985 at Amazon, $563 at Target, and $1,000 on groceries, exceed their income by 13%.

    Host Ramit Sethi unpacks the psychological barriers preventing them from curbing spending, such as an "all or nothing" mindset and an inability to say "no" to children's demands. He emphasizes the need for unified financial goals rooted in shared values, strategic spending cuts, and involving children in money decisions. By creating and adhering to a financial roadmap, the couple can regain control and reshape their spending habits.

    Sep 10, 2024

  • 172. “We saved for retirement but have no money to spend NOW” (Part 1)

    In this episode of the "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" podcast, host Ramit Sethi explores a couple's financial predicament stemming from their conflicting money mindsets and spending habits. Michelle, with a scarcity mindset from an unstable upbringing, clashes with Ryan's carefree spending rooted in financial security. Despite their high income, the couple overspends and depletes savings on discretionary purchases.

    Sethi examines their overspending, lack of shared financial goals, and insufficient accountability systems. The episode delves into the need for couples to candidly discuss and align their financial approaches. Through this couple's story, listeners gain insights into developing sustainable habits and structures to achieve long-term financial well-being.

    Sep 3, 2024

  • 146. “I'm jealous when I see friends' vacations on Instagram”

    Tune into "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" as financial expert Ramit Sethi engages with couples grappling with common financial hurdles and aspirations. Tackling issues from jealousy over others' lifestyles, as displayed through social media, to struggles with aligning financial goals within a relationship, the episode dives into the practical and emotional aspects of personal finance. Listen to stories of couples at financial crossroads, like the longing for family vacations they can't afford and the debate over saving for a child's education, to understand the importance of a shared financial vision and the complexities behind managing money as a team.

    Beyond numbers and savings strategies, Sethi delves into the deeper psychological influences that shape our financial behaviors, including generational money habits and scarcity mindsets. He argues for the significance of automating investments and savings, leveraging the power of compound growth, and adopts a forward-looking perspective that values future financial well-being over immediate satisfaction. By sharing insights on how parents can rewire their financial beliefs and involve their children in money discussions, Sethi sheds light on how families can transcend long-standing barriers to financial freedom and enable wealth building across generations.

    Mar 5, 2024

  • 145. “Am I a bad mom if we can’t do a $7k Disney trip?”

    In this episode of "I Will Teach You To Be Rich," Ramit Sethi enters an insightful discussion with callers, tackling the complexities of family financial planning and the consequences of inadequate budgeting. The episode unfolds with a revealing narrative from David, a father whose family's Disneyland odyssey turned into a fiscal fiasco. Revealing the challenges of managing expectations and expenses, this candid sharing shines a light on the bigger issue of a family's unprepared encounter with escalated costs and the common trap of poor financial preparation.

    The conversation then gracefully shifts to broader themes of financial boundaries, debt management, and the psychological underpinnings of money attitudes. Sethi, along with Caller #1 and Caller #2, delve into the emotional struggles parents face when dealing with financial decisions, such as the daunting venture of buying a new house amidst suffocating debt. This episode goes beyond simple budgeting tips, probing into the deep-seated beliefs and habits passed down through generations, and the importance of creating a shared financial vision to secure not only one's present monetary health but also to pave the way for the financial literacy of future generations.

    Feb 27, 2024

  • 144. “We make $245K. Why do I have to ask my wife for dinner money?”

    On "I Will Teach You To Be Rich," host Ramit Sethi explores the stark contrast between his guests' perceived financial prudence and their actual lavish spending habits. In this episode, you'll hear from two different callers facing the common dilemma of earning a significant income while still feeling the pinch of financial strain. One caller grapples with the shame of overspending on home luxuries, despite using budgeting tools. Meanwhile, a couple earning a substantial salary struggles to feel wealthy due to debts and poor communication about finances.

    Sethi challenges his guests to reconcile their self-images with their spendthrift realities. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that internal stories and emotional spending are at the heart of the issue. The couple in the spotlight, Brad and Angie, are coached towards a unified approach to combat debt and manage their money more effectively. Amid hope and newfound collaboration, they learn that achieving their dream of an RV lifestyle requires honest conversations and concrete financial planning. Join Sethi in this deep dive into the psychology of spending and the transformative journey toward fiscal responsibility.

    Feb 20, 2024

  • 143. “I maxed out my credit cards on our $45k wedding. Are we broke?”

    Dive into the challenges of love and finance as Ramit Sethi guides a financially strained couple through the thorny path of debt recovery in "I Will Teach You To Be Rich." In a heart-to-heart discussion, Sethi confronts the economic aftermath of Amy and Tori's choices – an opulent wedding, a bold leap into entrepreneurship, and an underestimated home purchase. As the story unfolds, listeners are privy to the personal costs of chasing dreams without a financial safety net and the toll it takes on the couple's fiscal well-being.

    The episode provides a nuanced exploration of money within a relationship, chronicling the couple's journey as they grapple with staggering credit card debt and high monthly fixed costs that consume the lion's share of their income. Sethi emphasizes the need for an aligned approach to money management, improved communication, and a strategic recovery plan, offering sage advice for others in similar situations. With a sensitive yet practical perspective, the podcast offers a detailed analysis of Amy's desire for financial openness and Tori's resistance born of a troubled past with money, shedding light on the intricacies of financial empowerment in partnership.

    Feb 13, 2024

  • 142. “We have a $2.3M net worth—but we cut coupons”

    In this episode of "I Will Teach You To Be Rich," host Ramit Sethi walks us through a deep dive into the contrasting financial mindsets of a couple with a multimillion-dollar net worth. Brian, with a more relaxed approach to money, desires early retirement, but tends to keep the finer details from Rachel. Rachel is a meticulous planner who prefers to keep finances separate, grappling with anxiety over financial transparency and responsibility. Through their calls, the couple's disparity in handling money is evident, as they bicker over minor expenses and fret over retirement preparation.

    The episode takes on broader issues of financial management within relationships, particularly the tension between paying down a mortgage versus investing for the future. As Brian and Rachel search for common ground, listeners are invited to consider their own financial decisions and communication patterns. With a focus on compromise and mutual understanding, the couple ultimately revises their financial strategy to merge Rachel's debt aversion with Brian's investment-focused approach, offering insights into balancing personal preferences with sound financial practices.

    Feb 6, 2024