Real Voices. Real Struggles. Real Money Lessons. In this episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans hits the streets to ask people a powerful question: what keeps you up at night about your finances? She talks with everyday people, from college students and young adults to seasoned retirees, you’ll hear real voices share their honest and eye-opening take on financial worries—and the wisdom they’ve learned along the way.

This episode is filled with struggles, solutions and stories. From a student facing the new reality of student loan changes to retirees reflecting on the rising cost of living, their answers are real, raw, and relatable. They reveal their truths, struggles and timeless words of wisdom.

Kembala shares some practical strategies for budgeting, building an emergency savings fund, and achieving your financial goals—to help you worry less and feel better. She also uncovers transformational lessons that can bring more peace of mind, stability, and hope for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• A 2025 Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll survey reveals how Americans feel about their finances.
• Honest money conversations with people ages 21–80+, uncovering the frustrations and hopes about money.
• Real stories about budgeting, student loans, freelancing, and the comparison spending habits.
• Budgeting is crucial for financial stability.
• Emergency savings come first - even $500-$1,000 can prevent debt traps.
• Comparison costs money. Ask, "Does this bring me closer to my goals?" 
• Time is more valuable than money. 
• Clear goals with intention and actions drive results. 

Resources:

·      Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll - My Money August 2025

·      Changes to Federal Student Loans from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

·      “The Richest Man in Babylon” book by George S. Clason

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