The Ramsey Show Highlights “You Make Too Much To Be This Broke”
Jan 15, 2026
In this insightful discussion, caller Cynthia, an engine builder for the military earning $94,000, seeks financial guidance while grieving the loss of her son. She shares her struggles with $32,000 in debt, explaining the emotional spending linked to her grief. The hosts help her craft a budget using EveryDollar and encourage her to redirect her $2,000 monthly margin towards debt repayment. Amanda's plan to sell unwanted items and create accountability promises a path to financial healing, framed as a tribute to her son's memory.
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Grief-Fueled Spending Spiral
- Cynthia spent heavily after her son died and later realized her spending spiraled out of control.
- Dave and the co-host recognized grief-driven buying as the cause and reassured her she wasn't a bad person.
Income Doesn't Fix Emotional Spending
- Dave noted high income doesn't prevent being financially broken when emotions drive spending.
- Recognizing a problem and being willing to change are the first major steps toward recovery.
Use EveryDollar And Share Access
- Use a budget app like EveryDollar and give a trusted friend access for accountability.
- Apply windfalls (like Cynthia's $10,000) to taxes and then pay down smallest debts first to gain momentum.