Why Smart People Get Financially Stuck (and How to Break Free), with Carrie Joy Grimes

Most people were never taught how to manage money. Yet they're expected to navigate rising housing costs, student debt, investing, retirement planning, and an economy that often feels stacked against them.

In this episode of Career Sessions, Career Lessons, JR Lowry sits down with Carrie Joy Grimes, founder of WorkMoney and author of the USA Today bestselling book The Joy of Money, to explore why financial success has far more to do with psychology than spreadsheets.

Carrie explains why shame and avoidance keep so many people financially stuck, how small behavioral changes compound into long-term wealth, and why the biggest obstacle to financial security often isn't a lack of knowledge—it's the stories we tell ourselves about money.

They also discuss:

Why "I'm just bad with money" is one of the most damaging beliefs you can have

The surprising connection between money habits and career success

Why budgeting should create freedom—not guilt

How to overcome financial avoidance and build confidence one small step at a time

Why chasing the next hot investment rarely beats mastering the fundamentals

How to think about raises, retirement savings, and building wealth in today's challenging economy

Whether you're just starting your career or trying to gain greater financial confidence after years in the workforce, this conversation offers practical, encouraging advice that can help you take control of both your money and your future.

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