Welcome to the pilot episode of Rebuilding The Village with your host, Michael Read. In this insightful episode, we dive into the challenges and opportunities surrounding personal finance, instant gratification, and the role of community in shaping our habits and values.

Our guest, Suzanne Scullion, shares personal reflections and professional insights, highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for one's financial decisions and the impact of generational knowledge on financial behavior. We also discuss cultural shifts in spending habits, the pressure of consumerism, and the crucial need for financial education in schools.

Join us to gain practical insights on managing your finances, understanding the impact of debt, and finding happiness in simple pleasures. Tune in now!

Suzanne Scullion is the head coach and owner of G.R.A.C.E. Financial Coaching. For over eight years, she has taught and guided clients in Dave Ramsey's financial methods, philosophies, and principles. She continues to lead Financial Peace University for non-profit organizations and has experience with Smart Money Smart Kids, The Legacy Journey, and EntreLeadership. She developed the G.R.A.C.E. Technique to improve her client's finances for a more stable future and carefree life. G.R.A.C.E. stands for Guidance, Resources, Accountability, Communication and Evaluation.

Reach out:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannescullion/

Web: https://gracefinancialcoaching.com/

Episode highlights:

(0:46) What this podcast, Rebuilding The Village, is all about

(04:15) The concept of the village and community support

(06:44) Lack of financial education in schools

(11:30) Modern family dynamics and the cost of convenience

(13:36) The dilemma of both parents working: Childcare costs and lifestyle adjustments

(21:22) Consequences of neglect in affluent families

(31:30) Tips for enjoying life on a budget

(33:15) Impact of debt on finances and culture

(38:44) Evolution of credit in America

(45:04) Modern financial trends and high-interest debt

(57:33) Outro

Welcome to "Rebuilding the Village," a podcast where we explore the paradox of modern unhappiness amid rapid technological and social advancements. Join host Michael Read as he dives into the roots of rising divorce rates, financial insecurity, societal discontent, and the surge in mental health issues. By tracing these problems back to our ancestral village communities and examining today's fragmented urban existence, we aim to understand the biological and societal shifts behind these issues. Through expert interviews, historical insights, and thoughtful discussions, we seek to uncover how we've lost our communal values and how we can rebuild our village.