Description

Money worries? From student debt to late payments to skyrocketing housing costs, Americans are losing sleep over money. In this candid episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans takes to the streets to hear real voices share their financial worries — and the wisdom they’ve learned along the way.

You’ll hear from:

• A student navigating new federal grad loan limits.
• An independent contractor juggling unpredictable income.
• A 21-year-old trying to find balance saving, investing, and spending.
• An immigrant striving to build wealth to give back to her community.
• A young professional resisting the pressure to “look rich.”
• A retired veteran reflecting on time, distractions, and budgeting.
• An 86-year-old sharing powerful advice on housing, childcare, and life abroad.

These raw, honest conversations reveal not only the struggles but also the solutions — from budgeting with purpose to building emergency savings to focusing on what truly matters.

🎧 Tune in for financial truths that cross generations and inspire small steps toward stability, peace of mind, and a stronger future.

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 ways to have more peace of mind, stability, and hope for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• A 2025 Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll survey revealshow Americans feel about their finances.
• Honest money conversations with people ages 21–80+, uncovering the frustrations and hopes about money.
• Budgeting isn’t a restriction. It’s freedom with purpose.
• Emergency savings come first — even $500-$1,000 can help you.
• Avoid the comparison game. Ask 👉 "Does this bring me closer to my goals?" 
• Time is more valuable than money. 
• "Begin with the end in mind." Clear goals with intention and consistent action 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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Thanks for joining us today!

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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.

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