Podcast Summary: "I Was Dumped Because I Work Too Much"

The Ramsey Show Highlights Episode released on March 26, 2025, delves into the complexities of balancing work and personal relationships. Hosted by the Ramsey Network, this episode features a candid discussion between Dave Ramsey, Chris, and a guest named Kyle, who shares his experience of a significant relationship fallout attributed to his intense work schedule.

1. Introduction to Kyle's Dilemma

At the outset of the episode, Kyle poses a heartfelt question regarding his work-life balance:

Kyle [00:10]: "I just got a quick question on if I'm too work obsessed and like obsessed about making money."

His concern stems from a recent breakup, prompting him to seek advice on whether his dedication to his career has overshadowed his personal relationships.

2. Kyle's Extensive Work Schedule and Business Endeavors

Kyle provides an overview of his demanding schedule, highlighting his dual roles as a teacher and an entrepreneur:

Kyle [00:20]: "My girlfriend recently, we broke up, we split up and she moved out just because I was never home. I work about probably 80 to 90 hours a week."

He elaborates on his commitments:

• Teaching: Kyle teaches full-time and also takes on summer school, earning an additional income.

Kyle [01:17]: "I'm making about 50 with summer school because I'll do summer school as well."

• Lawn Care Business: Three years ago, Kyle launched a lawn care company that has grown significantly.

Kyle [00:45]: "I started a lawn care company that's taken off and now like all my time was obsessed with that and I just have no time for really anything else."

He shares impressive financial figures from his business:

Kyle [01:01]: "Last year I did about 125k in revenue and about 90 in profit."

Kyle's commitment is evident as he manages both teaching and lawn care, working between eight to ten lawns daily during mowing season.

3. Goals and Financial Vision

When questioned about his motivations, Kyle reveals a clear financial objective:

Kyle [02:10]: "My goal is to try and pay off my house as quickly as possible."

With a remaining mortgage balance of $135, Kyle aims to eliminate it within two more mowing seasons. Post-mortgage, he envisions hiring employees to sustain and grow his business, allowing him to reduce his work hours and focus more on other aspects of his life.

Kyle [02:30]: "I'm hoping to hire some employees and continue it for a few more years because I'm only 26, and then just grow it from there."

4. Relationship Strain and Breakup

Dave Ramsey addresses the core issue leading to Kyle's breakup:

Dave Ramsey [02:46]: "She told you repeatedly that she was not happy with you never being there. This was not a one conversation."

Kyle confirms that his girlfriend had consistently expressed dissatisfaction with his absence:

Kyle [03:09]: "Yes."

The dialogue explores whether Kyle's intense focus equates to obsession or deliberate intentionality. Chris, the co-host, probes deeper into the nature of Kyle's relationship and financial alignment with his ex-girlfriend.

5. Obsession vs. Focused Intentionality

A central theme of the discussion is distinguishing between being obsessed with work and being purposefully focused. Chris raises this critical point:

Chris [04:22]: "I don't know that you're obsessed. I think you're focused. A fine line."

Dave acknowledges Kyle's determination but questions the sacrifices made for his goals:

Dave Ramsey [04:18]: "You might be a wee bit intense for paying off the house, but you do have a set goal."

The conversation highlights that while Kyle's intentions are commendable, the lack of flexibility and prioritization may have jeopardized his personal relationships.

6. Advice and Insights from Hosts

Dave and Chris offer their perspectives on Kyle's situation:

• Dave Ramsey: Emphasizes the importance of valuing relationships alongside financial goals. He suggests that if someone values a relationship, they would find ways to balance work without completely sacrificing personal time.

  Dave Ramsey [04:27]: "And so, I mean, honestly, if the relationship meant some, meant a lot to you, you would have hired somebody to help you with the lawns, and you'd have been home a little."

• Chris: Encourages Kyle to reflect on whether he could adjust his timeline to accommodate his personal life without derailing his financial objectives.

  Chris [06:21]: "If you slow down the timeline to pay the house off a little bit because you want to give it another shot with her, is that something that you feel like you could willingly do?"

• Dave Ramsey: Reinforces that Kyle's actions were a conscious choice to prioritize his goals over the relationship, which led to its end.

  Dave Ramsey [07:44]: "You had a goal that was really important to you and it wasn't important to her."

The hosts collectively advise Kyle to acknowledge his choices, live with their consequences, and continue forward with his financial plans, affirming that his approach was intentional rather than obsessive.

7. Conclusion and Takeaways

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the delicate balance between ambition and personal life. Key takeaways include:

• Intentionality Over Obsession: Kyle's situation underscores the importance of setting clear goals while maintaining flexibility to nurture personal relationships.

• Prioritization and Balance: Effective time management and prioritization can help achieve financial objectives without compromising personal connections.

• Conscious Choices and Consequences: Recognizing that every choice has consequences allows individuals to make informed decisions aligning with their values and long-term happiness.

The hosts conclude by affirming Kyle's decisions as purposeful, encouraging him to pursue his goals while being mindful of the areas where adjustments could foster more balanced living.

Notable Quotes:

• Kyle [00:20]: "I work about probably 80 to 90 hours a week."
• Dave Ramsey [02:46]: "She told you repeatedly that she was not happy with you never being there."
• Chris [04:22]: "I don't know that you're obsessed. I think you're focused."
• Dave Ramsey [04:27]: "You would have hired somebody to help you with the lawns, and you'd have been home a little."
• Chris [06:21]: "If you slow down the timeline to pay the house off a little bit because you want to give it another shot with her, is that something that you feel like you could willingly do?"

This episode serves as a poignant exploration of the sacrifices entailed in the pursuit of financial security and success, offering listeners valuable insights into achieving a harmonious balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment.