What does financial health really look like in America today — and how can we help households thrive in an increasingly complex financial world? In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Lisa Berdie from the Financial Health Network and Dr. Gary Mottola from the Financial Investor Education Foundation (FINRA) to uncover the latest research on financial capability, resilience, and well-being. From the Financial Health Pulse to the National Financial Capability Study, they explore what drives financial health, how major life events like job loss or medical emergencies impact households, and what behaviors can help families build stability. Lisa and Gary also discuss systemic and structural barriers, trends in credit use, and practical steps financial counselors and educators can take to empower clients. Tune in for a deep dive into data, insights, and real-world strategies to help Americans navigate their financial lives with confidence and control.

Show Notes:

02:46 Get To Know Lisa & Gary

06:49 The Importance of Collaboration in Financial Research

08:34 Surprising Findings from the 2024 National Financial Capability Study

09:28 What’s Driving Household Financial Health?

16:13 Can Households Keep Up with Financial Complexity?

20:00 Practical Steps to Strengthen Financial Health

27:28 Lisa & Gary's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Connect with Gary on Linkedin!

Explore Gary's research on FINRA!

Look into Financial Health Pulse 2025 U.S. Trends Report!

Connect with Lisa on Linkedin!

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The State of Financial Health in America with Lisa Berdie and Gary Mottola