Real $tories Episode 75: LeAnne   

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LeAnne’s financial journey once felt steady: minimal debt and retirement savings on track. But a decision to return to school, combined with unexpected job loss, quickly shifted her footing. Retirement savings were depleted, and credit card and student loan balances began to climb, bringing mounting stress that affected both her mental and physical health. 

Undeterred, she explored resources and eventually found her way to GreenPath.  Five years later, she eliminated her credit card debt. While she still has work ahead of her to tackle her student debt and replenish her retirement savings, LeAnne is proud of what she has accomplished so far and eager to continue climbing towards a brighter financial future.   

Key Moments

2:29  LeAnne talks about her experience with money growing up. 

3:49  She talks about debt accumulation after she decided to attend school for graphic design and subsequently lost her job. 

10:38  She speaks to the effect that her debt had on her mental and physical health. 

11:49  She considers options for addressing her debt and eventually finds GreenPath. 

13:25  She discusses her experience talking to GreenPath. 

17:57  LeAnne reflects on the changes she made to her spending plan to ensure she could pay off her debt. 

21:12  She celebrates the completion of her program. 

21:59  Her student loans are still a source of stress. 

24:40  She shares her inspiration for sharing her story. 

32:16  Our cohosts reflect on the themes from LeAnne’s story.