210. “We make $170k—but spend like we make $450k”

33 snips

May 27, 2025

Clara and Devin's financial struggles reveal a complex web of debt and differing spending habits. With $20,000 in credit card debt and 75% of their income tied up in fixed costs, their financial future appears shaky. Their relationship dynamic reflects a toxic cycle, with Clara feeling disempowered and Devin caught in a dreamer's mindset. Together, they explore the need for open communication, setting shared financial goals, and breaking free from unhealthy patterns to rebuild their partnership and find stability.

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INSIGHT

Toxic Parent-Child Money Dynamic

The couple operates in a parent-child money dynamic, with Devin as the

ANECDOTE

Clara's $20K Debt Story

Clara racked up $20,000 in credit card debt from concert tickets, backyard furniture, and kids' items.
She hid expenses from Devin because she knew he wouldn't approve.

INSIGHT

Finance Pro Gambles Instead of Investing

Devin, the finance professional, is gambling instead of investing due to disbelief in retirement planning.
This undermines his role as the responsible money manager in their relationship.

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Clara (29) and Devin (34) are married with three young kids, trying to build a future while juggling debt, stress, and wildly different approaches to money.

Clara racked up $20,000 in credit card debt, while Devin chooses to gamble instead of investing for retirement. They earn well and own two properties, but with zero savings, 75% in fixed costs, and no shared goals, their financial foundation is crumbling. Underneath the spreadsheets and the spending is a toxic parent-child dynamic, causing Clara to feel disempowered and ashamed, while Devin’s “dreamer” mindset leads him to believe the next big win will fix everything.

Can they dismantle these roles, get honest about their spending, and rebuild as true partners before it’s too late?

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