GreenPath Real Stories
Business & Finance
About
Journeys of Financial Wellness
Episodes
- Real $tories Episode 75: LeAnne
LeAnne’s financial journey once felt steady: minimal debt and retirement savings on track. But a decision to return to school, combined with unexpected job loss, quickly shifted her footing. Retirement savings were depleted, and credit car…
- Understanding the Difference Between Debt Settlement and Debt Management
Key Takeaways A debt management program helps you repay your full balance over time, often with reduced interest rates and one simplified monthly payment. Debt settlement aims to reduce what you owe but can significantly impact your credit…
- Why Did My Credit Score Drop? Common Scenarios & Examples
Key Takeaways A credit score drop is usually tied to a few common triggers (like higher card balances, a missed payment, or a new application)—and most are fixable with a simple plan. One of the fastest ways to stabilize your score is lowe…
- Real $tories Episode 74: Rahkim Sabree
Rahkim’s experiences growing up profoundly shaped his relationship with money. From his family’s eviction to multiple cross-country moves during his college years, financial instability played a central role in his story. After launching a…
- Debt Management Program Pros and Cons: Is It Right for You?
Key Takeaways A debt management program (DMP) debt management program (DMP) is a structured way to repay eligible unsecured debt in full through one monthly payment, often with reduced interest rates. DMPs can simplify repayment and ease s…
- Utility Bill Payment Help: A National Guide (2026)
Key Takeaways Utility costs can swing with extreme heat and cold, but there are more options for support, stabilization, and savings than you might think. From LIHEAP to Weatherization and Home Energy Rebates, national programs may help lo…
- Real $tories Episode 73: Sylvia
For Sylvia, financial struggle was something she grew up with. Money was often tight, and the adults around her frequently relied on others to get by—an experience that shaped how she viewed independence and security. As an adult, those ea…
- Making Sense of Medical Debt
Key Takeaways Medical debt often feels overwhelming because it shows up unexpectedly, varies wildly in cost, and is tied to stressful health events. You have more rights and options than you might realize—including the ability to negotiate…
- Real $tories Episode 72: Pedro & Elizabeth
Pedro and Elizabeth had different upbringings when it came to money. Despite these differences, their financial future was looking bright for them and their young daughter. But life threw them a curveball. They suddenly lost their rental i…
- Divorce Financial Planning: Managing Debt During a Divorce
Key Takeaways Divorce often deepens financial stress, so planning early can protect your credit and budget. Take control of shared and individual debts with clear communication, documentation, and realistic repayment plans. You don’t have…
- Real $tories Episode 71: Jamara
As a child, Jamara’s family struggled with finances. While the adults in her life shielded her from the daily reality of this, it still shaped her relationship with money. As an adult, she faced a different kind of challenge: a violent rel…
- 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 challen…
- Deal or Debt Trap? Tips for Black Friday & Cyber Monday
Key Takeaways Black Friday and Cyber Monday still offer chances for savings—but in a high-cost economy, it’s just as easy for deals to turn into debt. With inflation and uncertainty weighing on many households, setting a budget and stickin…
- 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 stu…
- Before You Say Yes: Pros & Cons of Store Credit Cards
Key Takeaways A store credit card can offer fun perks and discounts — as long as you always pay the full balance each month. If you carry a balance, you’re probably looking at much higher interest rates than with general-use cards — and th…
- 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 he…
- Managing Finances During a Government Shutdown
Key Takeaways A government shutdown can cause sudden income loss, but there are steps you can take to reduce stress and stay afloat. Federal employees are guaranteed back pay once the shutdown ends, but contractors and essential workers ma…
- 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…
- Show Me the Money: 5 Ways to Demystify Finance for Your Kids
Key Takeaways Money lessons start at home. Everyday conversations help kids build strong financial foundations . Hands-on experiences beat lectures—let kids practice saving, spending, and giving in real-life scenarios. You don’t have to do…
- 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…
- Bankruptcy Basics: What You Need to Know Before Filing
Key Takeaways Bankruptcy can offer a fresh start, but it comes with long-term consequences and should be carefully considered. There are different types of bankruptcy, and understanding the differences is key to making the right choice. A…
- 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 als…
- Your Mid-Year Money Checklist
Key Takeaways A mid-year financial check-in helps you assess, organize, and improve your financial health. Steps like budgeting, strategizing debt payoff debt payoff , and automating payments can lead to big savings. Use this checklist to…
- Declare Your Financial Independence
Key Takeaways Financial independence means having the freedom to make life decisions without being controlled by financial stress. Free tools like budgeting, financial counseling, and online education can help you build a stronger financia…
- What to Do if You’re Late Making Car Payments
Key Takeaways A single missed car payment can impact your credit score and even lead to repossession—know your options before it gets to that point. If you’re juggling debt and falling behind, don’t wait. Communicating with your lender ear…
- 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 l…
- 5 Powerful Ways to Support LGBTQ+ Communities with Your Spending
Key Takeaways Pride Month is a celebration, but LGBTQ+ support is a year-round commitment. Where you spend your money can make a meaningful difference. From shopping LGBTQ+-owned businesses to investing in inclusive funds, every dollar can…
- Sun’s Out, Funds Out: 10 Tips for Summer Spending
Key Takeaways A summer spending plan helps you avoid financial stress by budgeting for travel, entertainment, and seasonal expenses ahead of time. Prioritizing high-impact activities and seeking free or low-cost options can help you enjoy…
- Prioritizing Self-Care on a Budget
Key Takeaways Mental health and money are deeply connected—stress in one area can affect the other. Budgeting, mindful spending, and using free or affordable resources make self-care accessible—even on a tight budget. GreenPath client Osca…
- 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. Event…
- Real $tories Episode 62: Regina and Renita Update
Today, we revisit two former guests, Regina and Renita. Regina first spoke to us in episode 27 episode 27 . At the time, she was in the middle of her Debt Management Program and several years away from being debt-free. Today, with her prog…
- The Most Overlooked Tax Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Key Takeaways Double-checking info like your Social Security number, income, and deductions can save you weeks of waiting. Even if you can’t pay your taxes, file anyway to avoid steeper penalties. Most refunds refunds arrive within 21 days…
- Should You Start a Savings Account for Your Child?
Key Takeaways Opening a savings account is one of the simplest and most effective ways to teach kids smart money habits, helping them learn the value of saving over time. When choosing an account, look for high-yield interest rates, low fe…
- The Car Buying Process in Seven Steps
Key Takeaways Researching car models, financing options, and total costs upfront can help you avoid financial pitfalls. Negotiating the best price and understanding loan terms, understanding auto loans and using an auto loan calculator can…
- Real $tories Episode 61: Maria
Maria is the embodiment of tenacity. When she applied for college, she was informed of her ineligibility due to her immigration status at the time. Refusing to take “no” for an answer, she became one of the first two people in her home sta…
- Dollars and Sense: A Blueprint for Prioritizing Bills
Key Takeaways Make sure your basic needs—food, housing, and utilities—are covered first. Your well-being comes first. If you’re struggling to keep up with payments, reaching out to your creditors can open the door to possible solutions. Yo…
- Surviving a Layoff: Your Checklist for Managing Finances
Key Takeaways Layoffs are emotionally and financially overwhelming. Take time to process the news. Seek support with friends or family and avoid any actions that could jeopardize future opportunities. Applying for unemployment benefits, re…
- Real Stories Ep 60: Kelly Confronts the Pressure to Spend
Kelly’s financial story is a testament to resilience and relatable to many of us. Initially burdened by student loans and credit card debt, she struggled to keep pace with her peers who unintentionally created pressure to overspend. Life’s…
- Real Stories Ep 59: Dreams to Dollars: Dr. Darla Bishop
As a young woman, Dr. Darla Bishop had her heart set on attending her dream college, the University of Michigan. But there was one major obstacle: how would she afford it? Just days before the semester began, an unexpected envelope arrived…
- Your Year-End Financial Wellness Checklist
Key Takeaways Review and adjust your financial plans to reflect any major life changes from the past year. Maximize your retirement contributions and tackle high-interest debt to improve your financial health. GreenPath offers free financi…
- Real Stories Ep 58: Tyjai Turns the Tables on Debt
Debt can accumulate for many reasons. For Tyjai, it was a mix of factors. In his early 20s, he didn’t have a spending plan. Rising inflation drove up the cost of major expenses like rent and auto insurance. Meanwhile, the growing interest…
- Budget-Friendly Strategies for Charitable Contributions
Key Takeaways Plan ahead to make the most of your holiday budget: Set a spending limit that aligns with your financial goals, track your expenses, and explore affordable options like refurbished gifts and discounts to avoid debt accumulati…
- Real Stories Ep 57: Mind Over Money: Crystal L. Gunn on Financial Healing
Today’s guest is Crystal L. Gunn, a financial strategist with a mission to empower people to transform their relationship with money. Crystal helps clients shift their mindset, heal financial traumas, and set new expectations and standards…
- Real Stories Ep 56: Juan’s Second Act
Meet Juan: a resilient first-generation immigrant from Honduras whose early relationship with finance might sound familiar to some. Growing up in a family that feared spending money, he learned early on to avoid financial products, includi…
- 529 Plans Explained: Tax-Advantaged Savings for Education
Key Takeaways A 529 plan is a great way to save for education costs with tax benefits that help your money grow faster. You won’t pay taxes on the earnings, and you can withdraw funds tax-free for qualified education expenses. Recent updat…
- Real Stories Ep 55: Turning the Tide: Ben’s Financial Comeback
Meet Ben, a man faced with many crossroads on his financial journey. Reflecting on his early work experience as a commercial fisherman, his struggles with debt during his first marriage, and the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy, B…
- Student Loan On-Ramp is Ending. Here is What Borrowers Need to Know
Key Takeaways Student Loan On-Ramp Student Loan On-Ramp ends on September 30, 2024, meaning missed payments will again have severe consequences. Staying in communication with your student loan lenders is crucial as forgiveness and repaymen…
- Welcome, Freshman: A College Guide to Credit Success
Key Takeaways Start building good credit early and consider starting with a secured credit card as recommended by our trusted partners at BECU . Avoid common pitfalls like overspending and missing payments to protect your financial future.…
- Options For Dealing with Debt – Recorded Webinar
Paying off debt can feel overwhelming, and it can be even more challenging to navigate all the options available and choose the best approach. Join us for a workshop to discuss a variety of payoff options, identify key differences, and wei…
- Real Stories Ep 54: Real $tories Live! Exploring the Link between Mental and Financial Health
Join Real $tories Live! Episode 54 to explore the vital link between mental and financial health with expert panelists.