What We Spend

Laying the Foundation

It’s not always easy being a woman in construction. But for Alden, a union carpenter in Massachusetts, the challenges come with a big payoff: the most financial stability she’s ever had.

The Cost of Feeding America, from Giving Done Right

Sharing an episode of Giving Done Right, a podcast from the Center for Effective Philanthropy about how to make an impact with your charitable giving. Shifts in federal policy and funding have profoundly impacted the nonprofit sector, and it has never been more urgent that donors act decisively and wisely. You’ll hear from experts across the social sector who shed light on the rapidly shifting landscape of need and the crucial, but complex, role of charitable giving in filling critical gaps. In this episode, Julie Butner, president and CEO of one of the largest food banks in the U.S., reveals that food bank clients are often working families who simply can't afford basic necessities. She explains how modern food banks have evolved far beyond emergency food distribution to address root causes through healthcare partnerships, nutrition education, and community gardens. The eye-opening conversation challenges common misconceptions about who needs food assistance and addresses debates about the roles of government and private philanthropy. You can listen to more Giving Done Right at https://link.mgln.ai/whatwespend.

Here Comes the Bill

Dan is a university post doc in the midwest. He’s getting married next spring— and discovering just how expensive weddings really are.

Death Admin

A few years ago, Alissa suffered the devastating loss of her husband. In the aftermath, she was left to navigate not just grief, but all the financial questions and decisions that came with his death —finding work, supporting four kids, and the emotional weight of figuring out how to use the money he left behind. If you want to be on What We Spend, we'd love to hear from you. Write us at whatwespendpodcast@gmail.com

Joint Accounts

Charli is a filmmaker living in the Bible Belt. They’re on the brink of a big step in their relationship – moving in together and merging finances. If you want to be on What We Spend, we'd love to hear from you. Write us at whatwespendpodcast@gmail.com