Money fights are one of the most common, and most damaging, sources of tension in a relationship. Whether it’s spending, debt, or mismatched financial goals, those arguments can quietly erode trust and connection over time. But here’s the good news: money doesn’t have to be the thing that drives couples apart. When partners develop healthy financial habits and learn how to communicate about money, it can actually strengthen their relationship. Which is why we’re excited to welcome Dr. Sonya Lutter to the show today. She’s both a marriage therapist and a financial planner, and she leads the Financial Health & Wellness program at Texas Tech. She brings a rare, research-backed perspective on how couples can keep money from becoming a stumbling block and instead make it a source of teamwork. Today we discuss: 

• How financial therapy combines finance and emotional support
• Perception of financial wellness often differs from reality
• Financial stress impacts decision-making abilities
• Biological responses to stress affect financial decisions
• Regular financial conversations can prevent conflicts
• The most common relational dynamic that leads to money fights
• How financial infidelity can be as damaging as sexual infidelity
• And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

• Sonya: All things Sonya over at her website, SonyaLutter.com
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• Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
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• Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

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Best friends out!