How Do I Get My Boyfriend To Step Up and Make More Money? - The Ramsey Show Recap
Podcast: The Ramsey Show
Published: 2026-02-18
Duration: 2 hr 19 min
Summary
George Kamel and Ken Coleman provide financial advice on a range of topics, from managing debt to encouraging a partner to contribute more financially. The episode emphasizes the importance of financial responsibility and proactive money management.
What Happened
George Kamel and Ken Coleman tackle Nancy's dilemma about whether to file for bankruptcy due to $25,000 in credit card debt. Despite her fluctuating income, they advise her to focus on increasing her earnings and managing essential expenses rather than taking the bankruptcy route.
Ashley from Ann Arbor is concerned about her boyfriend's lack of sales as a car salesman while she earns a substantial income in tech. The hosts suggest considering roommates or alternative childcare options to relieve financial pressure as Ashley pays $3,000 in rent living at her dad's house.
Chelsea from Kansas City is focused on clearing her $6,000 debt on a 0% interest credit card by October. With her income and expenses outlined, she's advised to cut costs and possibly take on a second job to meet her financial goal.
Nick from Richmond is aggressively paying off $70,000 in student loans, with $25,000 already paid since March 2025. The hosts recommend increasing his payments even more, noting the potential for his wife to qualify for public service loan forgiveness.
Jessica from Seattle, a newly single mom living in a shelter, contemplates returning to school for dental hygiene. The advice is to first secure stable employment and financial footing before pursuing further education.
Eric from Sioux Falls shares his journey to becoming a Baby Steps Millionaire with a net worth over $1 million. He attributes his financial success to disciplined savings, strategic investments, and utilizing a Smart Vestor Pro.
John from Birmingham is $65,000 in debt and works three jobs to manage his finances after his wife became a homemaker following two strokes. He's encouraged to use budgeting tools like Every Dollar to find extra money and prioritize debt repayment.
Key Insights
- Facing $25,000 in credit card debt, Nancy is advised against bankruptcy. Instead, tackling fluctuating income by boosting earnings and controlling essential expenses creates a stronger financial foundation.
- Ashley from Ann Arbor pays $3,000 in rent at her dad's house while her boyfriend struggles in sales. Solutions like roommates or alternative childcare can ease her financial burden without waiting for him to earn more.
- Nick from Richmond, who has already paid off $25,000 of his $70,000 in student loans, could benefit from his wife's eligibility for public service loan forgiveness, potentially accelerating their debt freedom.
- Jessica, a single mom in a shelter, considers dental hygiene school, but the priority is securing stable employment first. Ensuring financial stability before education prevents future setbacks.
Key Questions Answered
How can Ashley from Ann Arbor encourage her boyfriend to make more money?
Ashley is advised to explore options like finding roommates or alternative childcare to relieve financial pressure, while also having an open discussion with her boyfriend about his career goals and potential ways to increase his sales as a car salesman.
What steps should Nancy from Jackson take to avoid bankruptcy?
Nancy should focus on increasing her income and managing essential expenses. Filing for bankruptcy is discouraged, and she is advised to explore side jobs or other income sources to manage her $25,000 credit card debt.
What advice is given to Nick from Richmond about paying off student loans?
Nick is encouraged to be even more aggressive with his payments, potentially increasing them to $3,000 or $4,000 a month. His wife's potential qualification for public service loan forgiveness is also a key consideration.