This Is Uncomfortable

Reema Khrais, a journalist and host who delves into the emotional aspects of money, joins Steve Burns to explore the often awkward relationship we have with finances. They discuss how money embodies feelings of security and belonging, and reveal the emotional scripts that drive our financial behaviors. Reema shares personal stories of avoidance and the cultural influences shaping our money narratives. They emphasize the importance of emotional literacy in managing finances and suggest strategies to ease the discomfort of talking about money.

This week, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes, plus a new update and your surprising reactions.While sorting through her father’s belongings after his death, Amanda Petteruti came across a collection of locked toolboxes. What she discovered inside made her rethink what she knew about her family’s finances and left her with unsettling questions about her dad: Why had he spent so much money on this secret hobby? Why was it now Amanda’s burden to handle? And how do you find closure with someone once they’re gone? We want to know what you think about This Is Uncomfortable. Please complete a short, anonymous survey by going to marketplace.org/survey. It should only take about 10 minutes, and you do all of us at Marketplace a huge favor by filling it out.

Marketplace reporter Matt Levin joins to share the captivating story of Glauber Contesoto, who pursued the dreams of wealth through cryptocurrency. They discuss Glauber's audacious $250,000 bet on Dogecoin and how his initial success turned to painful losses during the crypto winter. The conversation reveals Glauber's emotional attachment to crypto, his undocumented status affecting his financial choices, and the precarious balance between ambition and risk. Levin highlights the complex dynamics of pursuing the American dream while living on the edge.

Chantal Lisback, a data analyst, and her husband Travis, an aerospace engineer, share their journey of searching for their first home in Seattle. Their contrasting timelines and financial views spark heated debates and reveal deeper communication issues. They discuss how societal pressures impact their decisions and explore the emotional strain that comes with such a significant choice. Later, they consult financial therapist Aja Evans, who offers strategies for navigating money-related conflicts with care and building a stronger partnership.

Mandi Woodruff-Santos, a career coach and host of the Brown Ambition podcast, joins to tackle your toughest work dilemmas. The conversation kicks off with the drama of office relationships and the crucial need for clear communication. They dive into the rising trend of pets in the workplace, navigating personal boundaries amidst potential allergies. Expect insights on handling salary disparities and the emotional rollercoaster of negotiations. Mandi shares expert strategies for advocacy while inviting listeners to share their own workplace challenges.

Claudette Powell, a former actress and comedian turned nun, shares her remarkable journey from debt to devotion. After settling $150,000 in loans, she embraced convent life, only to discover that leaving material wealth was just the beginning. Claudette discusses the emotional conflicts around money within community living, her internal struggles with self-worth, and the unexpected challenges of finding belonging among spiritual commitments. Her candid reflections reveal the complexities of a life devoted to faith while wrestling with the remnants of her past.

Hanna Sanborn, a single mom, shares her journey through IVF and the challenges of caring for her newborn twins while friend Bryer Rossi describes his pivot from burnout to becoming their full-time caregiver. They discuss the financial shock of childcare costs, their evolving friendship, and how a lighthearted idea became a serious arrangement. Their living situation brought unexpected romantic feelings to light, leading to a loving partnership. Now married and with an adopted child, they reflect on how economics intertwined with their love story.

“This Is Uncomfortable” returns with four brand-new episodes about life and how money messes with it.This season: Two best friends, struggling with work and unaffordable child care, come up with an unconventional solution that reshapes their relationship. A woman walks away from a Hollywood career to take a vow of poverty. Our “Money Fight” series is back, following a couple whose search for a dream home turns into a power struggle. And in our new advice series, "Work Drama," we tackle your uncomfortable work questions on toxic offices and pay discrepancies.New episodes drop starting May 1.

Lee Hawkins, a journalist and author specializing in Black family history, shares a compelling narrative about his upbringing in Maplewood, Minnesota. He explores the historical segregation and the challenges faced by Black families seeking housing. The story focuses on the groundbreaking decision by the Hughes family to sell lots to Black buyers, sparking a vibrant community. Hawkins also reveals a secret nighttime deal that enabled this opportunity, highlighting its lasting impact on property access and economic advancement for future generations.

Haley Hirschman, the founding producer, shares the inspiring journey of the show through its ten seasons. She reflects on the challenges of discussing money openly and the importance of vulnerability in financial conversations. The chat covers clever remote work strategies, like using scents for better boundaries, and valuable tips for mindful spending. Listeners also share their transformative experiences, revealing how open discussions about finances can empower individuals. The team thanks audiences for their support and looks forward to the next season!