Why is talking about money so difficult?For many people, it isn't about math—it’s about fear, shame, childhood beliefs, trauma, trust, and communication.In this powerful episode of Money and You, Michelle Perkins sits down with licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and mental health advocate Bonnie Russo to explore the emotional side of money and why so many intelligent, capable people avoid financial conversations.Together they discuss how our earliest experiences shape our relationship with money, why couples often struggle to communicate about finances, how financial abuse can quietly develop inside relationships, and why avoiding money conversations only creates more stress over time.Whether you're married, single, divorced, or simply trying to feel more confident with money, this conversation offers practical insights and compassionate encouragement to help you move forward. In This Episode You'll Learn Why money conversations feel so emotionally chargedHow childhood experiences shape your financial beliefsHow financial avoidance quietly grows into resentmentThe warning signs of financial control and financial abuseWhy women often underestimate their financial valueHow communication—not income—is often the biggest financial challengeHow therapy and financial education can work togetherWhy your self-talk may be holding you back financially Key TakeawaysMoney conversations are relationship conversations.Financial disagreements are often rooted in communication, expectations, trust, and unspoken assumptions—not dollars.Avoidance creates more anxiety.The less we look at our finances or talk about them, the more overwhelming they become.Financial confidence is learned.No one is born knowing how to manage money. Financial literacy is a skill anyone can develop.Ask questions—even if they feel uncomfortable.Understanding your finances isn't a sign of distrust. It's an important part of protecting yourself and participating fully in your own life.Self-talk matters.The stories we tell ourselves about money often become self-fulfilling. Replacing "I can't" with "I can't...yet" creates possibility. Memorable Moments 05:30 — Bonnie explains why so many people avoid money conversations 07:00 — How family beliefs quietly shape financial behavior 12:00 — Financial dependence and the challenges of leaving unhealthy relationships 16:00 — Why financial education creates hope and possibility 19:00 — SMART goals and why vague financial dreams rarely become reality 21:00 — The history of women's financial independence—and why it still matters today 27:00 — How to begin difficult money conversations with your partner 35:00 — Understanding fight, flight, and freeze responses around money 45:00 — The importance of changing your financial self-talk 47:00 — Why adding the word "yet" changes everything Favorite Quotes "We talk about relationships all day long—but we avoid talking about money." "It is okay to ask questions. It is okay to understand your finances." "People push money down the road until later—and later eventually shows up." "Nobody taught a lot of people how to adult." "Your body is talking to you. Listen to what it's trying to tell you." "Feelings aren't facts." "It's never too late." About Bonnie Russo Bonnie Russo, LCSW-QS, is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, speaker, advocate, and founder of Papillon Health & Wellness. She is also the founder of Bridges to Wellness, a nonprofit supporting adults, seniors, and veterans through whole-person care.Her work focuses on the intersection of mental health, trauma recovery, financial stability, relationships, and emotional wellness. Bonnie works with individuals and families navigating high-conflict divorce, financial abuse, grief, trauma, career transitions, and life changes while helping clients build resilience and confidence for the future. For more tools and conversations about money mindset, practical financial tips, confidence, and financial empowerment…Subscribe to the “Money & You With Michelle Perkins” Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-you-with-michelle- perkins/id1365907575Please rate, review, and share the show with friends and family who want to feel more confident and in control of their financial lives — it really helps us!Join the Limit Free Life® Community & Newsletter: https://limitfreelife.com/newsletter/Learn more about Michelle Perkins & Limit Free Life®: https://limitfreelife.com Have a money or career question? Book a free virtual coffee chat with Michelle: https://limitfreelife.com/booking/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Instagram: @livealimitfreelife YouTube: The Limit Free Life Channel https://www.youtube.com/@michelleperkins-limitfreel2446
