Real Stories Episode 20: Nina – Light after Darkness 
- October 15, 2021
Podcast: Download (Duration: 1:06:18 — 53.1MB)
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Nina has been on quite a journey the last few years. For her, stress around her finances was only the tip of the iceberg. Nina also faced many challenges when it came to addiction and her mental health.
Her story almost had a tragic outcome. In her darkest moment, Nina summoned the strength to turn her life around. She found support from her family, her new partner and her new employer.
This led to her GreenPath, who helped her turn around her financial life, too. Nina’s story provides such a visceral reminder that we’re not alone.
PLEASE NOTE: This Episode Discusses Suicide
If you would like someone to talk to, consider joining the more than 20 million people who have called the National Suicide Lifeline at 800-273-8255 to start a conversation. This hotline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Another resource to consider is the Crisis Text Line. To connect with a Crisis Counselor, text HOME to 741741. You are not alone.
Key Moments
5:17 Nina describes how her depression impacted her finances and contributed to her credit card debt.
7:15 She details how she started to self-medicate with alcohol.
8:49 Nina shares her darkest moment and the changes she started to make after her suicide attempt.
16:15 She describes how her new job at Service Credit Union led to an introduction to GreenPath.
20:33 Nina talks about how paying down her debt put her in a position to afford Christmas presents.
26:13 She explains how she was able to save over $5000 in interest by refinancing her high-rate auto loan.
29:28 Nina discusses her experience with GreenPath’s Super User program and how this better enabled her to help others with their finances.
34:43 She talks about the current state of her mental health and the support system she’s put in place.
38:15 Nina talks about her financial goals.
43:08 She gives advice to help others when feeling overwhelmed.
Practical Tips
48:01 Considerations when talking to debt collectors
51:28 Pros and cons of opening up a joint savings account
54:15 Using money apps
56:45 Refinancing auto loans
59:06 Self-love and financial health
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Music by Hir-O