Episode Overview

In this deeply insightful episode, Shannon sits down with Lindsay Bryan-Podvin, a financial therapist and founder of Mind Money Balance, to unpack the emotional and psychological dimensions of money. Together, they explore the nuances between therapy and financial therapy, the emotional weight of financial decisions, and how ingrained patterns and trauma can impact financial behavior. This conversation sheds light on the hidden layers of financial stress and why investing in mental wellness is often the missing piece in achieving true financial health.

What You'll Hear In This Episode

• Lindsay's journey from sociology student to financial therapist
  

• The generational impact of the Great Recession on career and financial expectations
  

• How emotional and mental patterns influence financial decisions
  

• The key differences between financial therapy and traditional therapy
  

• Why financial plans often fail without addressing underlying emotional blocks
  

• How to know if you need a financial therapist versus a financial coach or planner
  

• Red flags to look for when choosing a financial therapist
  

• The importance of a personal connection and accountability in therapeutic success
  

Key Takeaways

• Financial therapy bridges the gap between emotional well-being and financial behavior by addressing mental patterns that prevent people from achieving financial goals.
  

• Money is deeply emotional and often tied to past experiences, many of which are rooted in early life and go unrecognized.
  

• If financial issues are impacting your ability to function in daily life, therapy—not just coaching—is likely needed.
  

• Patterns like avoidance, shame, or fear around money signal deeper emotional issues that financial therapy can help unpack.
  

• A financial plan is only as good as your ability to implement it; if you can’t follow through, it might not be a money issue but a mindset one.
  

• The term "therapist" isn’t protected, so vetting credentials and licensure is critical when seeking a financial therapist.
  

• Real progress comes from trying out strategies, noting emotional reactions, and being open to change with professional support.
  

Notes/Final Thoughts

This episode is a powerful reminder that getting financially healthy is about more than spreadsheets and budgets. It's about understanding your emotional wiring, reprogramming deep-seated beliefs, and building a supportive relationship with money. Therapy isn't just for when things are "bad" – it's a proactive tool for anyone wanting to live with more intention and peace around their finances. As Lindsay emphasizes, our money habits are rarely about math. They're about meaning.

Ways to Connect With Lindsay

• Website:mindmoneybalance.com
  

• Newsletter:mindmoneybalance.com/newsletter
  

• Quiz:mindmoneybalance.com/quiz
  

• Instagram & YouTube: @mindmoneybalance