In this episode of 1322 Life (Season 3, Episode 9), Bri answers five thorn letters about family money pressure, credit card requests, secret wealth, and a father’s betrayal.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “My fiancé’s grandparents want my entire paycheck to repay his $20k debts – even though I never borrowed the money. Am I wrong to refuse?” – Bri says: He’s a fiancé, not a husband. Not your problem. If you marry, then you decide together – but 100% of your check to his family? Absolutely not.

2. “My sister wants me to take a cash advance on my credit card (18‑24% APR) for a house deposit. She’ll pay back in 2‑4 weeks. I just paid off my card – should I do it?” – Bri: No. Proverbs says it’s foolish. Cash advance has no grace period. She can use her own card. Also, a mortgage lender will ask if it’s a gift – don’t sign a false document.

3. “I’m a 30‑year‑old self‑made millionaire (real estate + business), but my family has always made me feel less than. Should I tell them?” – Bri: No. They’ll pretend to love you for your money. Wear the outfit, get your hair and nails done, pour into yourself. And get a personal trainer – health is wealth.

4. “My dad gave me money for my graduation party, then asked for it back to cheer up his stepkid. I returned it in front of his other kids and told him he’s not welcome at my graduation. Am I wrong?” – Bri: No. He’s dead wrong. He prioritized stepkids over you for years – missed hospital visits, broke promises. You have every right to set boundaries.

🙏 Opening and closing prayers included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #FamilyDebt #CreditCardCashAdvance #SelfMadeMillionaire #ParentalBetrayal #ChristianPodcast

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MORE RESOURCES

Faith Cards & Budgeting Sheet - https://bdsmithwealth.com/resources/

Free Financial Breakthrough Call - https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

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https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

In this episode of 1322 Life (Season 3, Episode 8), Bri answers five thorn letters about housing, debt, family sacrifice, and setting boundaries.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “I’m 30, want to buy a house, but the market is terrible. Should I move back in with my parents to save $17k/year?” – Bri says: if you have a good relationship, do it. Also get a shark realtor and consider sweat equity on a fixer‑upper.

2. “$23k credit card debt, getting divorced (he was a drug addict), I make $24k/year. Bankruptcy or settle?” – Bri: Don’t file bankruptcy. Prioritize mortgage and utilities first. The debt is unsecured – ignore it until your needs are met. Then increase income (Doordash, Instacart) and settle the debt.

3. “I broke a lease early, paid all fees except $100 they never told me about. They got an eviction judgment without me knowing (I had moved states). What do I do?” – Bri: File a motion to vacate the judgment. Courts take lack of notice seriously, especially when you were 2,600 miles away.

4. “I’m 25, a valedictorian engineer in Istanbul, hate my job. My parents want me to take a 5‑year mortgage for their dream home, which would trap me here and kill my dream of a master’s abroad. What do I do?” – Bri: Pursue your dream. You can help them later when you’re successful. Their dream is not your responsibility. Don’t sacrifice your youth for their house.

5. “I live in London, help my mom regularly, but she books caravan holidays while in debt. Now she wants more, but I’d have to go into overdraft. I feel guilty.” – Bri: No. Don’t go into debt for someone else’s poor decisions. Give from abundance, not lack.

🙏 Opening prayer included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #MovingBackHome #CreditCardDebt #Eviction #FamilySacrifice #SettingBoundaries #ChristianPodcast

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MORE RESOURCES

Faith Cards & Budgeting Sheet - https://bdsmithwealth.com/resources/

Free Financial Breakthrough Call - https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

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CONNECT WITH ME

@brismithcpa

https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

In this episode of 1322 Life (Season 3, Episode 7), Bri answers four thorn letters about family money pressure, college affordability, bad car loans, and homebuyer regret.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “My wealthy Indian parents expect a fixed portion of my salary every month – they don’t need it, but say it’s my duty. Am I wrong for refusing?” – Bri says: No. They’re financially secure. This isn’t biblical. Don’t let guilt force you into an unnecessary obligation.

2. “Our son is a top student (ranked 3rd, perfect GPA), wants a $100k/year dream school. We have 4 kids, make $200k, and can’t afford that. Wife says don’t crush his dreams. Am I too harsh?” – Bri sides with Dad. Set a yearly contribution limit. He needs to find scholarships or take loans. $400k for undergrad is insane, especially since he wants vet school or PhD after.

3. “My 62‑year‑old mother‑in‑law just bought a $42k car at 13.7% APR – total cost $65k. She’s near retirement with little savings. What can she do?” – Bri: Try to return it (if within 1 week). Otherwise refinance immediately (she should have good credit). Sell her old 2017 car privately and put that toward the loan.

4. “I bought a $440k house on commission income, now my industry tanked. I have $20k savings, unexpected repairs, and I’m stressed. Should I sell and rent again?” – Bri: Yes. You bought too much house. Sell, rent, regroup, and buy less house next time with a fixed emergency fund.

🙏 Opening prayer included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #FamilyMoney #CollegeCosts #CarLoan #HomebuyerRegret #ChristianPodcast

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MORE RESOURCES

Faith Cards & Budgeting Sheet - https://bdsmithwealth.com/resources/

Free Financial Breakthrough Call - https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

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CONNECT WITH ME

@brismithcpa

https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

In this episode of 1322 Life (Season 3, Episode 6), Bri answers three thorn letters about balancing life and money, retirement planning for young professionals, and end‑of‑life preparations for a mother with a terminal diagnosis.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “We’re 37 & 35, make $150k, have a 1‑year‑old, and want to take three big trips (Hawaii, Italy, Japan) costing $10k. Are we crazy?” – Bri breakAs down the numbers: mortgage is high, debt exists, but memories matter. She says: take two trips this year, pay off credit card, max out 401k, and enjoy life within reason.

2. “I’m 22, make $53k, no debt, already maxing Roth IRA, have $65k in savings, and access to a 403b/457b. Roth or traditional?” – Bri says: Roth always. Pay taxes now while you’re young. Also, your emergency fund is too big – invest the excess.

3. “I’m 40, a single mother of teenagers, given 6‑12 months to live. I have $100k home equity, $9k/month disability, and a $20k Europe trip planned with my kids. Should I cancel? Also, how to protect my children’s inheritance from my partner of 9 years (not married)?” – Bri’s answer: TAKE THE TRIP. Your kids will remember it forever. Set up a trust for the house and silver, with your parents as executors. Don’t rush to marry just for this – secure your children’s future first. Then she prays fervently for divine healing.

🙏 Powerful closing prayer for healing included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to https://1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #TravelBudget #RothVsTraditional #EndOfLifePlanning #TrustForKids #HealingPrayer #ChristianPodcast

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MORE RESOURCES

Faith Cards & Budgeting Sheet - https://bdsmithwealth.com/resources/

Free Financial Breakthrough Call - https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

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CONNECT WITH ME

@brismithcpa

https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

In this episode of 13:22 Life (Season 3, Episode 5), Bri answers five thorn letters about family debt, car payment struggles, marriage inequality, sibling money fights, and a mother’s secret spending.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “My parents are in their 50s, drowning in debt – mortgage, credit, no retirement. I make $4k/month. How can I help?” – Bri says: increase your income first. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

2. “I’m 19, missed a car payment, cancelled my insurance, and they’re threatening repossession. I’m scared to tell my family.” – Bri’s fix: Doordash or Instacart for one week. Get insurance back immediately.

3. “My husband went fishing Saturday, then slept in Sunday while I got up with the kids. He says he doesn’t ‘owe me’ for going out.” – Bri: “More than most men” is not the bar. Communicate, stop keeping score, but equal rest matters.

4. “My sister removed me from the family group chat because I refused to give more money for our parents’ allowance. They keep squandering it.” – Bri: You’re not wrong. Parents need a budget, not an endless well.

5. “Mom has secret debts – she’s borrowed thousands from everyone, pawned a friend’s $50k rings, and won’t say where the money goes. No drugs, no gambling. Help.” – Bri: This sounds like addiction. Get a private detective. Dad needs to stop enabling.

🙏 Opening Memorial Day prayer included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #FamilyDebt #CarPayment #MarriageAdvice #SiblingConflict #SecretSpending #ChristianPodcast

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MORE RESOURCES

Faith Cards & Budgeting Sheet - https://bdsmithwealth.com/resources/

Free Financial Breakthrough Call - https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

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CONNECT WITH ME

@brismithcpa

https://bdsmithwealth.com/work-with-me/

In this episode of 1322 Life (Season 3, Episode 4), Bri answers five thorn letters about college debt, credit disasters, marriage budgeting, unmotivated partners, and financial survival.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “My daughter wants to go to an expensive school in Hawaii – she refuses community college. How do I stop her from drowning in debt?” – Bri says: she’s 18 and headstrong. Let her learn. Apply to 30 more scholarships. Love her through it.

2. “My ex‑wife’s bankruptcy hit my credit report – I was just an authorized user. 130‑point drop!” – Bri’s fix: pay off the small balance, dispute, get a letter from the card company.

3. “I freeze up when my wife talks money – she pays for everything, I give wrong numbers, and she’s frustrated. Help.” – Bri says: she can lead, but you must stay engaged. No more “yours/mine” – you’re married.

4. “My boyfriend (26) works a chill retail job, gave up on teaching music, no savings, and gets mad when I send him job leads. Should I move in with him?” – Bri: Absolutely not. Drop him. It’s not about money – it’s his mindset.

5. “We’re drowning financially in San Diego – two kids, behind on car loan, collections, husband has depression.” – Bri breaks down their income, shows the budget can work, and prays for them.

🙏 Opening and closing prayers included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

#1322Life #ThornLetters #CollegeDebt #CreditScore #MarriageBudget #RelationshipAdvice #FinancialStruggle #ChristianPodcast

In this episode of 13:22 Life (Season 3, Episode 3), Bri answers five thorn letters about marriage struggles, financial selfishness, retail therapy, loneliness, and starting over at 44.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “My wife wants a separation 4 months after marriage – and we’re in the middle of buying a house.” – Red flags, emotional distance, and a $10k non‑refundable deposit. Bri’s advice: don’t buy the house, and prepare for an annulment.

2. “My husband spends all his fun money AND our grocery budget – leaving me to cover essentials.” – Combined finances falling apart. Bri says: have a stern conversation, get a counselor, and stop letting selfish behavior slide.

3. “I struggle with financial discipline – retail therapy when I’m depressed.” – Removing apps doesn’t work. Bri recommends real therapy, healthy outlets (walking, free streaming), and creating new habits.

4. “I’m a 24‑year‑old scientist with no friends, no partner, and an empty life. Should I start over with a new career?” – Bri’s answer: your job isn’t the problem. You need people and God. Find community, hobbies, and a church.

5. “44, single, self‑employed, just ended a 2‑year relationship. Should I sell my beach house (doubled in value) and start over?” – Bri says: not crazy. You’re lonely and have no wife/kids – shake it up. Travel, move overseas, or find a remote role.

🙏 Opening and closing prayers included.

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR OWN THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only.

📲 CONNECT:

Website: www.1322life.com

Instagram: @brismithcpa

#1322Life #ThornLetters #MarriageAdvice #FinancialInfidelity #RetailTherapy #Loneliness #StartingOver #ChristianPodcast

In this episode of 13:22 Life (Season 3, Episode 2), Bri Smith answers four thorn letters – real financial and spiritual struggles from listeners (and Reddit).

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “Was I wrong for not co‑signing a car for my brother?” – We go straight to Proverbs. Four times God says: do not co‑sign. Run like a gazelle.

2. “AITA for refusing to pay for my sister’s husband’s surgery with my inheritance/college money?” – She spent her inheritance on cars and home renovations. Now she wants yours. Bri’s answer: No. She can sell her upgrades.

3. “Should I make my parents pay me back $100k for college if they want a relationship?” – They paid for your brothers but not you. Bri talks forgiveness, family, and what really matters before it’s too late.

4. “I feel like a stranger to God and don’t know how to come back.” – Depression, guilt, drifting away. Bri shares her own story: losing her grandmother, turning away from God, and the messy journey back.

🙏 Opening and closing prayers included.

✨ KEY SCRIPTURES:

Proverbs 6:1-5, Proverbs 11:15, Proverbs 17:18, Proverbs 22:26-27, The Prodigal Son (Luke 15)

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR OWN THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only. We want to hear what’s really hurting your finances and your walk with God.

📲 CONNECT:

Website: www.1322life.com

Instagram: @brismithcpa

#1322Life #ThornLetters #ChristianPodcast #PersonalFinance #CoSigning #Inheritance #Forgiveness #ProdigalSon

Welcome back to 1322 Life – Season 3, Episode 1. We’re trying something new: THORN LETTERS.

What’s a thorn letter? You tell us your financial struggle (that “thorn in your side”), and we answer it God’s way. In this premiere episode, we cover FIVE real questions from Reddit and online.

📬 LETTERS WE ANSWER:

1. “Are my ambitions for wealth and a good career compatible with serving Christ?” – A 29‑year‑old chemical engineer fears making her career an idol. Bri redefines success: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

2. “Am I wrong for hiding $12,000 from my spouse?” – Six years of marriage, one spender, one saver. Bri calls this financial infidelity and says: be honest, don’t be a coward.

3. “Constant fights about money with my soon‑to‑be husband – $50k wedding, 50/50 split, feeling exhausted.” – Bri’s hot take: $50k for a wedding is “insane.” You’re playing house, not married. Get counseling before you spend another dollar.

4. “How do I say no to family who will need financial support because of bad choices?” – Mom (78) and brother (39) have 9 months of runway left. Bri’s advice: have the hard conversation NOW, not when they’re evicted.

5. “My husband earns 2x more but wants to split everything equally.” – Bri’s answer: “We don’t split. Roommates split. Married couples become one – ‘ours,’ not ‘mine.’”

🙏 Opening and closing prayers included.

✨ KEY SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 13:22 – “A good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children.”

✉️ SUBMIT YOUR OWN THORN LETTER:

Go to 1322life.com – anonymous or first name only. Let us know what’s that thorn in your side.

📲 CONNECT:

Website: www.1322life.com

Instagram: @brismithcpa

#1322Life #ThornLetters #ChristianPodcast #PersonalFinance #MoneyAndMarriage #GenerationalWealth #Season3Premiere

In this deeply personal and transparent episode, Bri shares her journey from financial stability to nearly $100,000 in credit card debt — and back again. After leaving a high-paying job in obedience to God, she faced unexpected hardship, spiritual pruning, and what felt like failure.

But God wasn’t done.

You’ll hear:

• The real cost of delayed obedience and emotional spending
• Why even good intentions can lead to poor money decisions
• How the story of the prodigal son mirrors modern financial struggles
• What it really means to rebuild your finances with faith and wisdom
• Encouragement for those silently ashamed of their past financial mistakes

📖 Featured Scripture: Luke 15, Proverbs 24:16, Isaiah 43:18-19, Joel 2:25 🔧 Tools Mentioned: The Making of a Monarch, Position to Prosper, Budget Worksheets 🕊️ Theme: Grace, Redemption, Obedience, Stewardship

📍Ready to start rebuilding?

Visit: thewealthyparents.com

💬 Leave a review and let us know how God moves in your life after this episode.