GreenPath Real Stories

GreenPath Financial Wellness
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Journeys of Financial Wellness

  1. DEC 15

    Real $tories Episode 70: Connie Smith   

    Connie Smith’s journey with money began long before her first paycheck. Growing up in foster care, she didn’t have a built-in financial playbook—so when she bought her first home before age 20, rising mortgage rates quickly created challenges she wasn’t prepared for.  Instead of giving up, Connie got curious. Determined to do things differently, she learned everything she could about personal finances and put this newfound knowledge into practice.  Connie has always hustled when it comes to income opportunities, which has helped her achieve her financial goals. Today, she’s not only building a stable financial future for herself and her children; she’s also paying it forward as a foster parent, offering the kind of support she once needed.  Her story is a powerful reminder: with knowledge, determination, and heart, financial wellness is possible—no matter where you start.  Key Moments 2:28 Connie reflects on how growing up in foster care affected her relationship with money.  4:02 She buys her first home as a 19-year-old and winds up in an adjustable-rate mortgage.  6:43 Becoming a young mom gives her a new perspective on life and money.  8:34 She feels defeated after her credit card debt starts to mount but eventually uses a credit counseling agency to address her debt.  13:53 Connie approaches things differently the next time she buys a home.  16:16 She speaks to the side hustles that have helped bridge the gaps in her budget.  17:57 She offers advice to other entrepreneurs.  22:35 She talks about how she plans to set herself up for her financial future, including the importance of a financial cushion in retirement.  26:36 She gives some financial tips to parents.  34:31 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Connie’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

    39 min

  2. NOV 17

    Real $tories Episode 69: Khiara Cureton

    Khiara Cureton once dreamed of becoming a doctor—but life had other plans. After realizing medicine wasn’t her true calling, she pivoted toward a master’s program that opened the door to a rewarding career in healthcare—and $120,000 in student loan debt.  But how to navigate her student debt was a problem for her future self.    “Someday” came sooner than expected. While building a thriving wedding planning business on the side, Khiara became a single mom. Her son quickly became her motivation to build stability and create the kind of future she’d always envisioned.  Today, Khiara is taking charge of her finances—tackling her student loans head-on and making steady progress toward a bright financial future for both of them.  Key Moments 2:50 Khiara learns about the value of financial independence growing up.  6:48 Khiara wrestles with big decisions—what to study and where to build her future.  9:24 She accumulates over 100K in student loan debt, but frames this as a problem to be solved in the future.  12:45 She starts a wedding planning business to bring in extra income.  16:40 After her business closes, she launches two new ventures.  19:24 Khiara shares her thoughts on the flow of money in the African-American community.  21:14 She balances her own financial goals with those related to her son.  23:23 She discusses her approach tackling her student loans.  29:13 She speaks to her financial goals to save for travel experiences and philanthropy work.  36:57 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Khiara’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

    42 min

  3. OCT 15

    Real $tories Episode 68: Lorrena Black

    For Lorrena Black, saving money when she was young didn’t come naturally. Raised by a hard-working single mother, she modeled a deep work ethic but struggled to save. When she joined the Army, her discipline and sense of duty grew — but her spending habits stayed the same. Her real turning point came years later, during a short-lived career as a financial advisor. Helping others with their finances forced her to take a closer look at her own. Though she eventually pivoted her career in a new direction, the lessons she learned about budgeting, saving, and planning for the future finally began to click. Today, Lorrena channels that hard-won wisdom into mentoring and leadership development, with a focus on serving veterans. She’s passionate about helping others unlock their potential — financially, personally, and professionally. Key Moments 2:25 Lorrena’s upbringing influences her work ethic. 5:01 When she joins the military, she ends up spending all the money she makes. 7:58 She incurs some credit card debt in her 20s but eventually leverages her budget to pay it down. 12:01 She starts a career as a financial advisor and applies the teachings to her own life. 14:54 Lorrena retires from the army and loses some of her financial focus initially. 17:46 She launches a small business. 21:19 She strives to develop leaders, with a focus on veterans. 22:32 She talks about her goals related to her business, retirement and giving. 23:20 She shares her favorite money tip: pay yourself first.  GreenPath Financial Service GreenPath, A Financial Resource If you’re interested in building healthy financial habits, paying down debt, or saving for what matters most, take a look at these free financial tools. Free Resources Free Resources

    28 min

  4. SEP 15

    Real $tories Episode 67: Jess Jackson  

    Jess Jackson grew up believing she was solidly middle class. But once she arrived at college, she realized many of her peers came from far wealthier backgrounds. Determined to keep up, she borrowed more than she should have—decisions that later became a heavy financial burden.  Her journey has been one of jumping into new opportunities and learning through trial and error. She bought her first home at a young age, navigating plenty of financial growing pains along the way. Over time, those lessons fueled her growth into a successful business built around real estate investment.  As her career has evolved, Jess has had to reinvent herself more than once. The path hasn’t been easy, but her persistence and resilience continue to drive her forward—and inspire her to create a better world for those around her.  Key Moments 2:40 Jess reflects on how being around people of different financial means influenced her.  7:09 When she attends the University of Michigan, she feels pressure to keep up with the Joneses.  11:42 Her credit score prevents her from getting approved for housing while in a teaching program.  12:56 She optimizes available resources as she gets her MBA.  14:52 Jess buys her first house and learns a lot along the way.  19:26 She learns a financial lesson related to her business and taxes.  20:43 She balances her savings goals and student loan repayment goals.  23:09 She discusses shame and ego and how this contributed to her stress.  24:58 She experiences job loss and a subsequent mental breakdown but emerges in a better place.  28:58 Jess shares some practical money tips.  35:18 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes from Jess’ story.   GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

    42 min

  5. AUG 15

    Real $tories Episode 66: Evelyn  

    As Evelyn grew up in an immigrant Cuban-American household, money was seldom discussed. Faced with mounting debt after a job loss and family medical expenses, she didn’t know where to turn. The debt piled up quickly, and bankruptcy started to feel like her only option.  Looking for connection and answers, Evelyn shared her situation on social media. The support she received encouraged her to explore other solutions.  That’s when she found GreenPath. With a customized plan and ongoing support, Evelyn is now working toward becoming debt-free. For the first time, she feels hopeful about building financial stability and a stronger future.   Key Moments 2:26 Evelyn reflects on how her parents didn’t really talk about money growing up.  4:13 She borrows a lot of money to cover living expenses during college.  7:08 Job loss and her husband’s medical expenses end up affecting the family’s finances.  10:06 She considers bankruptcy after her debt becomes overwhelming but ends up stumbling on a referral to GreenPath.  12:24 She recounts the initial conversations she had with GreenPath and the relief she felt.  18:32 She shares about her financial journey on social media.  22:35 Evelyn discusses her approach to her student loans.  24:08 She considers her future goals around debt, savings, and homeownership.  27:06 She encourages others in similar situations to not navigate financial stress alone.  28:47 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes in Evelyn’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

    34 min

  6. JUL 15

    Real $tories Episode 65: Emily

    Emily grew up in a household where money was tight, shaping her mindset around finances as she entered adulthood. Eager to embrace life and support loved ones, she often found it hard to say no—leading to experiences she cherishes, but also to mounting debt she came to regret.  After her boss suggested she reach out to GreenPath, Emily made the call—and felt immediate relief after speaking with a caring financial expert. With GreenPath’s support, she transformed her approach to money and steadily paid down her debt.  Years later, Emily is debt-free and looking toward the future with hope and excitement—dreaming of one day owning a cozy home down a quiet dirt road.  Key Moments 2:19 Emily recalls how money was tight growing up and how her childhood influenced her spending patterns as she became an adult.  5:12 She started using a credit card for her job that eventually caused her some financial struggle.   8:00 As she helps her family members celebrate milestones, Emily’s finances get further strained.  13:35 After she became overwhelmed with her debt, her boss recommended that she reach out to GreenPath.  16:46 She recounts the relief she felt talking to GreenPath.  22:35 Emily discusses how her spending approach with her family has changed as she has become more disciplined with her finances.  25:47 She thinks back to the joyful feeling she had when she became debt- free.  27:53 Her money that had been allocated towards her debts gets used for some unexpected travel and medical expenses.  31:19 She shares her future dreams of homeownership.  39:08 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes and lessons learned from Emily’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

    44 min

  7. JUN 16

    Real $tories Episode 64: Gail Perry-Mason

    Gail Perry-Mason is truly a legend in the financial literacy world, having inspired youth and countless others for nearly three decades.  Her story is one of resilience and strength. Abandoned by her birth parents, Gail found the power of love and stability through her adopted family. She faced and overcame numerous challenges while navigating college and building a career in an industry that was often unwelcoming to a Black woman.  Gail went on to found a financial literacy camp for teens and co-authored the bestselling book Girl, Make Your Money Grow! Her impact has caught the attention of luminaries such as Warren Buffett and Oprah Winfrey. Through her personal journey, Gail shares powerful lessons and pearls of financial wisdom that continue to uplift and empower.  Key Moments 2:27 Gail reflects on her childhood and how this affected her outlook on life.  5:44 She works hard to attend college but struggles with her finances in the process.  8:52 She reaches out to GreenPath at a young age for guidance on better budget management.  14:47 She takes on the difficult task of advancing in her career.  25:03 Gail starts a money camp for teens that is now nearing its 30th anniversary.  33:04 She shares some of the key takeaways from her bestselling book, Girl, Make Your Money Grow!, which was featured on Oprah’s Debt Diet.  36:15 She considers money lessons she’s learned from her children.  40:05 Gail shares her favorite pearls of wisdom.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

    43 min

  8. MAY 15

    Real $tories Episode 63: CM

    CM didn’t grow up worrying about money, but adulthood brought new financial realities. Grad school meant taking on student loans, and launching a small business after moving across the country meant relying on credit cards to get by.  Eventually, she returned to New York—and found her footing again. The steady presence of family and close friends played a role in helping her rebuild. Their support not only gave her a sense of stability but also reshaped the way she thought about money: not just as a tool, but as something to approach with intention.  A recent discovery—a fraudulent collection account—was a stark reminder of how quickly financial security can feel fragile. The experience was draining, but CM met the challenge head-on, navigating the red tape and clearing her name with persistence.  Today, CM has created a financial that life she is proud of. She’s more intentional, more informed—and still dreaming big.  Key Moments 2:31 CM reflects on her childhood and how she approached money as she entered adulthood.  5:40 On her own for the first time, she acknowledges that she missed opportunities to save.  8:38 She details her experiences with student loans.  12:15 She recalls the journey of becoming a small business owner.  18:02 CM moves out to Los Angeles and encounters some debt and life struggles.  24:49 As she ponders the influence of the financial mentors in her life, she shares her favorite financial lessons she tries to live by.  27:53 CM recounts her recent frustrations with financial fraud.  33:53 She considers her financial goals, including buying a property in Nice, France.  39:58 Our co-hosts reflect on themes and lessons from CM’s story.  GreenPath Financial Service Debt Management Program GreenPath is a 60-year trusted national nonprofit, learn how GreenPath’s Debt Management Program can help you pay off your debt in 3-5 years, while helping you develop sound financial literacy. Learn More Learn More

    47 min
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4.9
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Journeys of Financial Wellness

Information

  • Creator
    GreenPath Financial Wellness
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    GreenPath Real Stories