Nicholas faced significant financial challenges after his divorce, including losing six figures in savings, owing six figures in tax liabilities, and $30,000 to the state. His ex-wife drained $72,000 from their accounts during the divorce, and his business slowed down, making it difficult to recover financially.
Dr. John Delony emphasizes moving forward because dwelling on past financial struggles, like Nicholas's divorce and financial losses, prevents healing and progress. He advises focusing on the present and future, leveraging past successes to rebuild, and taking ownership of current challenges to achieve financial stability.
Jade Warshaw advised Nicholas to focus on increasing his income and decreasing expenses to pay off his $28,000 in personal debt using the debt snowball method. She also suggested evaluating whether his business is worth keeping after addressing his personal debt.
Roger faced $11,000 in credit card debt after his son's medical emergency, which included childcare, food, and other expenses during the three weeks his son was in the ICU. He also had $30,000 in student loans, adding to his financial stress.
Dr. John Delony's hot take was that 'math doesn't care about your situation.' He emphasized the importance of financial preparedness, such as avoiding debt and building savings, to handle crises like medical emergencies without derailing long-term financial stability.
Jade Warshaw advised Roger to focus on paying off his $41,000 in debt by increasing his income and cutting expenses. She also suggested his wife consider part-time work to help accelerate debt repayment and avoid relying on credit cards in the future.
Brad faced emotional and financial challenges after moving closer to his parents in South Florida. He felt guilty about potentially moving away again, despite his parents being independent, and struggled with the emotional baggage of returning to his childhood hometown.
Dr. John Delony advised Brad to choose guilt over resentment, emphasizing that it's okay to prioritize his own happiness and well-being. He encouraged Brad to set boundaries with his family and make decisions that align with his current life goals, even if it means moving away from his parents.
Janie faced pressure to contribute $3,000 toward her parent-in-law's funeral, despite knowing there were assets left behind. She felt conflicted about the obligation and was made to feel guilty by her spouse for not wanting to contribute.
Jade Warshaw and Dr. John Delony advised Janie to contribute the $3,000 if she had the funds, as it was a temporary expense. They suggested addressing boundary issues with her spouse and in-laws after the funeral, rather than during the emotional crisis.
Jade Warshaw advised John to spend between $3,000 and $4,000 on an engagement ring, based on his $30,000 savings and $1,000 monthly income. She emphasized that the ring's value is less important than the commitment it represents.
Hannah faced financial challenges as a stay-at-home mom with two young children, $45,000 in consumer debt, and an $80,000 HELOC. Her husband, a high school teacher earning $56,000 annually, worked long hours but struggled to make ends meet, leaving her feeling resentful and overwhelmed.
Dr. John Delony advised Hannah and her husband to prioritize paying off their $125,000 in debt before focusing on his passion for teaching. He suggested her husband consider higher-paying jobs or additional work to accelerate debt repayment, emphasizing that financial stability must come before pursuing passion-driven careers.
Debra faced financial challenges after her husband's passing, including no life insurance, retirement savings, or significant assets. She relied on her real estate income, earning about $160,000 annually, but worried about her long-term financial security and retirement.
Jade Warshaw advised Debra to start saving 15% of her income for retirement, which could grow to $838,000 by age 70. She also encouraged Debra to continue paying extra on her mortgage and to be intentional about managing her finances to ensure long-term stability.
💳 Share your thoughts and you could WIN a $500 Gift Card!)
💸 Start taking control of your money in 2025 at our free livestream)
Jade Warshaw & Dr. John Delony answer your questions and discuss:
"My wife left me and took my life savings,"
"Should we move away from our parents?"
"Do we have to help pay for a funeral?"
"How much should I spend on a ring?"
"How do I not resent my husband's low income?"
Support Our Sponsors:
🌱 Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp)
◎ Get 10% off Byrna) product bundles and more!
🏥 Learn more about Christian Healthcare Ministries)
🏡 Get started today with Churchill Mortgage)
🔒 Get 20% off when you join DeleteMe)
🏦 Go to FAIRWINDS Credit Union) for an exclusive account bundle!
🥗 Save 15% on your first Field of Greens) order with code RAMSEY
💸 Learn more about opening a high-yield savings account with Laurel Road)
💻 Visit NetSuite) today to learn more
🗂️ Use promo code RAMSEY for 18% off at The Nokbox)
💵 Learn more about Timothy Plan)
🏛 Get started with YRefy) or call 844-2-RAMSEY
🔐 Visit Zander Insurance) for your free instant quote today!
Next Steps
📱 Listen to the full episode for free in the Ramsey Network app.)
📞 Have a question for the show? Call 888-825-5225 Weekdays from 2-5pm ET or click here!)
**📈 **Are you on track with the Baby Steps? Get a Free Personalized Plan)
🏠 Find a Ramsey Trusted Real Estate Agent)
💵 Start your free budget today. Download the EveryDollar app!)
🎟️ Get Tickets to the Money & Relationships Tour )
💰Watch 90 Day Money Makeover.)
Listen to more from Ramsey Network
🎙️ The Ramsey Show)** **
💡 The Rachel Cruze Show) 💸 The Ramsey Show Highlights)
💰 George Kamel)
Learn more about your ad choices. https://www.megaphone.fm/adchoices)