Money in Marriage: How Your Finances Reflect What You Value

When Money Talks — What’s It Really Saying?

In this episode, Jim and Cade unpack one of the most emotionally charged topics in any relationship: money. But instead of talking about spreadsheets or budgets, they dive into something far more personal — how money communicates what you truly value.

Jim shares how his own financial stress years ago shaped his passion for helping families have better conversations around money. “Money is a means of communicating, storing, and transferring value across space and time,” he says. And when couples don’t recognize that, small misunderstandings can grow into big divides.

Your Money Is Always Communicating

Every dollar you spend tells a story — not just about what you can afford, but about what’s important to you.

Cade puts it simply: “Your calendar and your checkbook always tell the truth about what you actually value.”

Jim gives an example of a couple who came to him for financial advice as a last attempt to save their marriage. Their turning point came during a trip to Disney World — a moment that revealed not how different they were, but how similarly they cared. One spouse spent freely to “make memories now,” while the other worried about the future. They wanted the same thing: meaningful family time. They were just communicating it differently.

That realization changed everything for them.

What the Numbers Say

The statistics back it up:

• Money fights are the #1 cause of divorce year after year.

• Couples who regularly discuss finances are 20–25% less likely to divorce.

• Financial infidelity (hidden debts or spending) plays a role in over 40% of divorces.

• Stress from debt and money issues impact 60–70% of adults.

Money doesn’t just affect your wallet — it impacts your marriage, your health, and your peace of mind.

The Real Issue Isn’t the Budget — It’s Communication

When couples argue about money, it’s rarely about math. It’s about meaning.

Jim explains that financial conflict often stems from misaligned communication — one partner saves for later while the other spends for now. Without understanding the why behind each choice, both sides feel unseen.

Cade adds that many people assume their spouse doesn’t care or is careless, when in reality, they’re just trying to express love or security differently. That’s why having regular, honest, and empathetic conversations about money is one of the healthiest things a couple can do.

Choose Intentionality Over Comparison

Social media has made the comparison game impossible to escape. “We used to keep up with the Joneses down the street,” Jim says. “Now the Joneses are everyone online.”

He shares a funny real-life story: a neighbor once said he wished he could afford to go to Italy — right before teasing Jim about driving an old car. The irony? That neighbor’s luxury car cost more than five Italy trips combined.

The lesson: You can have anything, but you can’t have everything.
Spend intentionally, not impulsively.

The Takeaway

• Talk about money — a lot.

• Listen with empathy, not defensiveness.

• Align your values, goals, and actions.

• Let your time and spending reflect what truly matters.

As Cade puts it, “Make sure your calendar and your checkbook tell the same story your mouth does.”

Money can divide couples — or it can draw them closer. The difference comes down to communication, awareness, and intentional living.

To watch the conversation visit ….
To download the readable transcript click here

🔗 Connect with Intentional Living FP

At Intentional Living Financial Planning, we believe money is more than math — it’s a reflection of what you value most.

If you want to have healthier conversations about your finances, build a plan that aligns with your values, and reduce financial stress in your marriage, visit intentionallivingfp.com to connect with Jim and Cade.