Psychology of Money

Forget the Emergency Fund: Do This Instead

Most emergencies aren’t really emergencies—they’re expenses you can plan for. YNAB can help you replace the vague “emergency fund” with intentional categories that make you feel calm, prepared, and in control.

Ben Barlowe

November 6, 2025

Don’t Separate Money and “Life”

You work too hard to not care or appreciate how you spend. Dan weighs in on how YNAB breaks down is the artificial barrier between money and the rest of... you.

Dan Cayer

December 19, 2024

Emergency Fund vs. Month Ahead

Ah, the age-old question: Should I build an emergency fund or get a month ahead first? Discover which option will help you stop worrying about money.

Ben Barlowe

May 15, 2025

What is Money Dysmorphia and How to Free Yourself

Money dysmorphia is a financial fog that is plaguing the masses! The YNAB Method can help you dispel the fear, face reality, and discover what you want most out of life.

Ben Barlowe

September 26, 2024

Experiences Age Like Wine, Things Age Like Milk

Discover the psychology behind why we so often prioritize things over experiences. The "Ben's" of YNAB dive into some practical tip to prioritize memory-making.

Ben Barlowe

November 7, 2024

Confronting Your Past

What does loving yourself have to do with money? Well, everything. Learn how to reflect on your past with compassion and look ahead with optimism.

Dan Cayer

July 11, 2024

How Not to Lose Your Mind Over a Single Purchase

Understanding the trade-offs of any decision will make you wiser (especially if you happen to get obsessed with buying a backpack).

Dan Cayer

May 27, 2024

Struggling with Money? Don’t Isolate.

You are not alone! Learn how to navigate financial challenges with transparency and community.

Dan Cayer

April 30, 2024

How to Understand “Irrational” Spending Decisions

Ever wonder why we make those baffling, wallet-opening decisions? Dive into a captivating story that makes sense of surprise purchases.

Dan Cayer

April 11, 2024

How to Fall in Love With Your Money

With a proven process for your money, you'll start seeing (and loving!) money as a part of you.

Emily Hudson

February 14, 2024

Hello, It’s Me (Minus the Money Stress): A Tale of Treats & Travel

Is an impromptu trip to Italy irresponsible? Not always. Learn how YNAB helped one woman organize her finances in a way that offered new opportunities.

Ashley McCann

January 5, 2024

Why Is Personal Financial Advice So Mean?

Why is it acceptable to get your money advice delivered with an insult or an eye roll? My car mechanic and my doctor don’t talk to me that way. My lawn guy isn’t performatively banging his head into a microphone when I tell him my grass is underwatered.

Dan Cayer

January 6, 2024

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love My Surprise Expenses

How some preparation and a small change in your mindset can help you love how you spend your money, even for unexpected emergencies.

Ben Barlowe

November 14, 2023

How Family Histories Strained Our Finances

The relationship your parents (and their parents before them) had with money affects yours. Overcome your family's history with finances.

Dan Cayer

June 19, 2023

Money and Mental Health: Budgeting as Self-Care

Like it or not, money and mental health are closely linked. Let’s look at how to simplify life’s complicated emotions with basic budgeting.

Ashley McCann

July 21, 2021

The Best Episodes from the YNAB Podcast: 25 of Our Favorites

Whether you're new to budgeting, a seasoned budgeter, or just want to hear staff picks, here are our favorite episodes from the YNAB podcast.

Ashley McCann

June 9, 2021

9 Takeaways From People Who Don’t Stress About Finances

76% of those surveyed reported little to no financial stress last year. So what are their secrets to financial zen?

Rachel Wong

February 8, 2021

12 Best Personal Finance Episodes from The Jesse Mecham Show

We've laid out 12 of the best episodes of The Jesse Mecham Show that are all about personal finance and growing in your money mindset.

Rachel Wong

September 4, 2020