The Oprah Podcast Oprah and Mellody Hobson: Best Money Advice for Gen Z
Jun 17, 2025
Mellody Hobson, a financial powerhouse and President of Ariel Investments, joins Oprah to tackle the pressing financial concerns of Gen Z. They discuss the staggering student debt and the shifting views on home ownership. Mellody shares practical money management tips, emphasizing the importance of early financial education. The conversation also explores the growing popularity of skilled trades over college and how setting financial goals can lead to long-term stability. Personal anecdotes reveal the reality of balancing debt and career aspirations.
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Gen Z's Financial Burden
- Gen Z faces nearly double the debt of previous generations, around $100,000 compared to $56,000 for Gen X.
- Rising college costs, inflation, and housing price increases heavily burden this generation financially.
Break Debt Cycle Early
- Avoid accumulating multiple credit cards and always pay more than the minimum to break the debt cycle.
- Even a few extra dollars beyond minimum payments can shave years off credit card debt.
Education Is Good Debt
- Education is 'good debt' because it offers lifelong value and better earning potential.
- Not completing a degree with debt is worse than not attending college at all.
