Inspired Budget

Today I’m hanging out with my friend Chris Browning from Popcorn Finance for a special crossover episode filled with laughter, awkward money moments, and honest reactions to real Reddit stories.We’re diving into some truly wild financial situations, from a $250 white elephant gift exchange to a friend asking for $2,300 after a baby broke her sunglasses and phone, to a daughter feeling pressured to send her mom money every month.In true This Is Awkward fashion, Chris and I unpack each scenario, debate what we’d do, and share our own awkward stories along the way.Need a laugh or a reminder that everyone has messy money moments? This episode will make you smile and maybe even make you feel thankful your own family drama doesn’t involve a $250 candle.If you want to share your own awkward money situation, we’d love to hear it!Leave a voicemail at 707-200-8259 or DM us at @inspiredbudget or @popcornfinancepodcast.Connect with Chris:Popcorn Finance Podcast – short, snackable conversations about moneyTalk Sleepy to Me Podcast – relaxing stories to help you unwind and fall asleepInstagram: @popcornfinancepodcastYou Might Like: Get the FREE Goodbye Debt Tracker! Grab my FREE Budgeting Cheat Sheet. Get the Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet. Follow Allison on Instagram! @inspiredbudget Check out Inspired Budget's blog. Take my FREE class on How to Budget to Build Wealth!

So many people are working full time yet still feel like they’re falling behind. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down why this is happening and what you can do to take back control of your money, even in a tough economy.We talk about:Why 45 percent of Americans say the cost of living feels unaffordableThe truth about debt, housing costs, and lifestyle creepFive simple steps to create real breathing room againI also share the exact starter habits that will help you feel more stable with your money, including how to build a small emergency fund and why a high yield savings account matters.Check out my favorite high yield savings account options: https://inspiredbudget.com/hysa You Might Like: Get the FREE Goodbye Debt Tracker! Grab my FREE Budgeting Cheat Sheet. Get the Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet. Follow Allison on Instagram! @inspiredbudget Check out Inspired Budget's blog. Take my FREE class on How to Budget to Build Wealth!

What if your money fights aren’t really about money? In today’s episode, I’m talking with financial therapist Nathan Astle about the real reasons couples clash over spending, saving, and debt — and how to get back on the same team. Nathan explains what financial therapy is, how power dynamics show up in marriages, and why guilt can help but shame keeps us stuck. If you’ve felt alone, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start, this conversation will give you hope and a plan.Resources mentioned:Financial Therapy Clinical Institute (FTCI) — free resource library (Money Timeline and Money Story worksheets)Money Minus Shame Podcast with Nathan AstleFinancial Therapy Association — find a financial therapist directoryConnect with Nathan on LinkedInYou Might Like: Get the FREE Goodbye Debt Tracker! Grab my FREE Budgeting Cheat Sheet. Get the Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet. Follow Allison on Instagram! @inspiredbudget Check out Inspired Budget's blog. Take my FREE class on How to Budget to Build Wealth!

In this brief episode, Allison offers a heartfelt message of encouragement to stay the course on your financial journey. Happy Thanksgiving!You Might Like: Get the FREE Goodbye Debt Tracker! Grab my FREE Budgeting Cheat Sheet. Get the Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet. Follow Allison on Instagram! @inspiredbudget Check out Inspired Budget's blog. Take my FREE class on How to Budget to Build Wealth!

What if paying off your debt didn’t have to feel like punishment? In this episode, I’m joined by Jacent Wamala, a licensed therapist and money coach who paid off $94,000 of debt in just three years…all on a single income! After walking through divorce, grief, and grad school, Jacent decided to treat her debt-free journey as an experiment instead of a burden. She shares how she stopped letting shame lead the way, got practical about her money, and created systems that actually worked for her life. If you’re working to pay off debt, or thinking about starting, this episode will remind you that it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, intention, and believing that your future self deserves peace of mind.Connect with Jacent:Instagram: @jacentwamalaYouTube: Jacent WamalaYou Might Like: Get the FREE Goodbye Debt Tracker! Grab my FREE Budgeting Cheat Sheet. Get the Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet. Follow Allison on Instagram! @inspiredbudget Check out Inspired Budget's blog. Take my FREE class on How to Budget to Build Wealth!