Meet the season 12 Teams
Sarah
Ever since college, Sarah has experienced a cycle of financial progress and setbacks. Despite having built a successful career in advertising, student loans and unexpected life events have prevented her from getting ahead.
One of these unexpected life events struck in 2019, when she lost her father to pancreatic cancer. This devastating loss opened her eyes to the importance of attaining financial security, preparing for retirement and building a safety net designated for emergency use only.
She admits that staying disciplined in her spending has been difficult, and she’s determined to cut down on splurges like takeout dinners on weeknights and new toys for her two fur babies.
Throughout her Project Money journey, this resilient achiever hopes to inspire others as she sets up a path toward financial freedom and empowerment.
“One of the things my dad instilled in me is the importance of managing one’s money and being independent,” says Sarah. “While I wish he were here to see it, I know he will be so proud of me for taking this step toward a healthier financial future.”
We know you’ll make it happen, Sarah!
Sarah's Journey
Follow along to see their progress.
This past week, I struggled with shopping. I'm not surprised as we're smack in the middle of a season that's designed to encourage shopping, which makes resisting the urge especially difficult. And that's okay. If I was weak in a moment, that doesn't mean my whole journey has ended. I simply keep going, put one foot in front of the other and return the items I bought.
Dustin & Scott
After several years of turning a blind eye to spending habits, Dustin and Scott are ready to stop spinning their wheels and prioritize their financial health for an even brighter future together.
The couple has worked hard in their careers to obtain steady incomes and has attempted to stick to a budget in the past, yet they continue to find themselves unable to gain traction.
Dustin and Scott hope to put a major dent in their debt and prepare for the future by paying off their mortgage and planning for retirement. Their main goal is to get on the same page with their expectations and develop a financial plan that allows each to be equally involved.
“Whatever this process puts before us, we agreed to embrace it together with openness and honesty,” they said.
The pair is eager to get their finances in order so they can afford to handle life’s unexpected challenges – and feel good about spending money on the things they love.
We’re ready to enjoy the ride, you two!
Dustin and Scott's Journey
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Idah
Ever since she made the 8,000-mile journey to Madison from her native country Zimbabwe, Idah has been working to find financial balance.
Through college and to this day, Idah has prioritized supporting her family’s needs back home. Between covering her grandmother’s medical expenses and even buying land with a cottage for her extended family, she’s been set back with debt and unable to build a substantial savings.
Idah’s selflessness has also meant putting her own financial well-being on hold – and living with the lingering stress that comes as a result.
As she continues to progress in her career and life, Idah is eager to create a plan for her personal goals, like getting married, building a savings and owning a home – all while continuing to support the family she holds dear.
“I’m excited for this journey because I’m ready to take hold of my finances, and I know I’m not going to come out of this experience the same person,” she says.
We can’t wait to see what you accomplish, Idah!
Idah's Journey
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Betsy & Noah
Betsy and Noah have known for some time that they need a more structured debt repayment strategy.
With student loans, car payments and a home equity loan, there are several things keeping them from climbing out of the debt cycle.
But between their own busy jobs and year-round activities for their kids Clem (13), Luella (11) and Francis (8), it’s been difficult to keep tabs on all the places their money is going.
The couple is confident that by increasing their financial knowledge and staying accountable to a plan, they can overcome their debt and pivot toward building their savings. By doing so, they hope to demonstrate healthy money habits for their children.
“Money has been a stressor for us for many years, but we’re ready to turn the corner on the path to financial wellness,” says Betsy.
We know you’ll get there, guys!
Betsy and Noah's Journey
Follow along to see their progress.