Is social media quietly draining your wallet? 💸 In this eye-opening episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala Evans and Todd Christensen, financial educator and author of Everyday Money for Everyday People, dive into the digital spending trap millions of Americans fall into every day. From flashy ads and influencer “must-haves” to sneaky algorithms designed to trigger impulse buys, social media isn’t just shaping what we see—it’s shaping how we spend.

Todd unpacks the psychology of online spending, the emotional triggers behind impulse purchases, and simple ways to become a more mindful consumer. He also discusses how ads, influencers, and algorithms are shaping what we see — and how we can drive change. He breaks down how to spot manipulative algorithms and the small shifts that can help you take control.

Kembala also hits the streets to hear real voices on how social media affects their spending habits. And later, Paula in Canada, joins to share her buying based on social media ads experience. You’ll also hear a powerful real-world story about her smart $200 makeup purchase, to a dress that turned into a cautionary tale. 

Kembala wraps with an FTC alert on the $1.9 billion lost to social-media scams, plus actionable tips to protect your wallet and your peace of mind from scammers online. 

Key Takeaways:

1. Awareness breaks the cycle. Recognize your spending triggers and how social media works.
2. “Buy Now, Pay Later” isn’t your friend. Todd’s theme-park analogy reveals why instant gratification leads to long-term regret.
3. Curate your feed. Unfollow the noise and follow accounts that uplift, educate, and empower.
4. Have a spending plan. This isn’t a restriction — it’s direction.
5. Pay yourself first. Save money in a different account.
6. Protect yourself from scams. Research sellers, use credit cards for protection, and question “too-good-to-be-true” deals.
7. Scroll with purpose, not impulse. Mindful scrolling saves both your money and your mental space.

Resources:

1. Book - Everyday Money for Everyday People by Todd Christensen
2. Money Fit Online - MoneyFit.org, X and Facebook
3. FTC Social Media Scam Alert

Send us a text

Thanks for joining us today!

We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com.

Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
X: @Kembala
YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.

Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.