205. “I've been homeless before…I'm terrified to spend money”

Jennifer (37) and Steve (41) have been dating for over five years, but they’ve never spent more than $100 on a shared purchase. Jennifer is a self-made business owner with a clear vision for the future, while Steve is cautious, financially conservative, and still haunted by a turbulent past that included losing both parents and living out of his car. Despite a solid income and nearly $200,000 in savings, Steve can’t shake the fear of financial collapse. Jennifer, meanwhile, is growing resentful. She wants a partner who dreams big and makes bold moves with her—not someone who second-guesses a $10 purchase. Can they confront the past, align on a shared vision for their future, and finally start acting like teammates? This episode is brought to you by: ZocDoc | Download the ZocDoc app for FREE at https://zocdoc.com/ramit then find and book a top-rated doctor today. Superhuman | Get a free month of lightning fast email at https://superhuman.com/ramit. Aura Frames | Use promo code RAMIT to get $35 off the best-selling Carver Mat frames at https://auraframes.com. Fabric by Gerber Life | Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/ramit. Next Level Wardrobe | Take their free styling quiz and elevate your style at https://nextlevelwardrobe.com/ramit. Links mentioned in this episode • Order my new book: Money for Couples Connect with Ramit • Get Money Coaching with Ramit • Download the Conscious Spending Plan • Listen to my book—now on Audible • Get my New York Times best-selling book • Get my no-numbers journal • Other episodes • Instagram • Twitter • YouTube If you and your partner have a money issue and you want my help, I occasionally select a couple to work with, free of charge. Apply for my help here. Produced by Crate Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices