Hey everyone, welcome to your Financial Therapy for the week! Today we’re replaying an episode about money dysmorphia: a psychological disconnect between your actual financial status and your perceptions of it. People can suffer from money dysmorphia regardless of whether they over- or underestimate their financial resources.

Crystal Zuzek is with us to have the conversation; she first heard about this concept via an episode from the Glamorous Trash podcast, which discussed how social media is fueling financial anxiety, and asked the question: who’s really broke vs. just unnecessarily worried about being so?

Based on her own experience, money dysmorphia can be characterized by feelings of financial insecurity or anxiety, even when objectively one's finances are stable or healthy. Alternatively, it can look like denying the limitations of your finances, or ignoring the consequences of your spending--whether because of overconfidence, 'keeping up with the Jones', nihilism, etc. It can manifest as overspending, excessive worrying about money, or avoiding spending altogether--all because you feel wealthier or poorer than you actually are.

Call or text to submit your feedback and questions for the show: 1-844-4FINPOD (1-844-434-6763)

Originally aired: September 23, 2025

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