Light Up the Mic Podcast
The “Light Up the Mic” podcast shines a light on meaningful topics to help you win in life. You’ll hear real stories from real people on how they overcame adversity, achieved success, found love, improved their finances, and more.
Amazing stories have a way of opening our eyes, teaching us life-changing lessons, and inspiring us to believe in the possibilities. Never underestimate the power of words to change your life.
Because hearing stories of triumph, wonder, and inspiration could empower you— to achieve your deepest desires. 😊
* New episodes every other Wednesday starting January 14th.
Light Up the Mic Podcast
Simplify Your Money Now: Take Control, Save More, and Get Out of Debt | Jim Katzaman
In this episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans sits down with Jim Katzaman, a 25-year Air Force veteran and personal finance advocate—who breaks down how to save more, pay down debt, and build stronger money habits without making it complicated. Jim’s known for his straight talk. He shares why he never waits for “New Year’s resolutions” to improve his life.
They dive into Motley Fool Money’s Top 2026 Financial New Year’s Resolutions. Jim talks about how the Great Recession shaped his passion for personal finance, why most people feel like they’re “spinning their wheels” today, and the simple systems you can use to achieve your goals—especially when money is tight.
If you’re ready to simplify your money and make real progress, this episode's for you.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why “Do It Now” Beats New Year’s Resolutions. “Anything worth doing is worth doing now,” don’t wait.
- Know Your Numbers (income + every expense)
Jim recommends writing everything down —income, bills, subscriptions, and spending habits (food) that quietly drain cash. - Treat Saving Like an Expense
Savings shouldn’t be “if there’s money left.” Pay yourself first—like it’s a bill. - Automate Your Savings Using an “Allotment”
Start small $10 per paycheck adds up—then gradually increase this amount. - Build an Emergency Fund for Less Stress
This cushion helps you handle unexpected expenses like deductibles, car repairs, and other surprises without going deeper into debt. - Pay Bills on Time
Late payments hurt your credit score and can trigger penalty interest rates/fees costing your more—especially on credit cards. - Use a Debt Payment Strategy that Works (get help, if needed)
Small wins motivate using the snowball. Others prefer paying down higher interest accounts first (avalanche). If you need help, get support—a second set of eyes could change everything. For example, consider NFCC counseling or having an accountability partner.
Resources:
- Jim Katzaman Online – X @JKatzaman
- Motley Fool Money’s Top Financial New Year's Resolutions for 2026
- National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) - nfcc.org
- Experian #CreditChat
Thanks for joining us today!
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X: @Kembala
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