Podcast Summary: "Always On the Clock"

Podcast: What We Spend
Host: Courtney Harrell
Episode Title: Always On the Clock
Release Date: July 16, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Always On the Clock," host Courtney Harrell delves deep into the financial life of Erica, a 42-year-old professor and bartender from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Erica offers a transparent look into her multi-job lifestyle, financial management, and the interplay between her upbringing and current financial decisions.

Erica’s Background and Work Life

Erica's journey into juggling multiple jobs began at a young age. Reflecting on her early work experiences, she shares:

"One of my full-time jobs now makes more money than both my parents ever did combined."
(00:01:29)

Currently, Erica balances six jobs, including two full-time positions at different universities—one in-person and one online—and adjunct roles at three other institutions. Additionally, she bartends at a local LGBT establishment. This demanding schedule allows her to earn a substantial income, reaching up to $250,000 during peak times.

"The pandemic helped, right? ... I sort of had like, all of a sudden, like these skills that were super in demand."
(00:04:36)

Income and Financial Management

Erica's annual earnings hover between $190,000 and $200,000. Her financial obligations include a $1,500 monthly child support payment and a $1,700 mortgage. Remarkably, she has nearly paid off her mortgage, maintaining a balance lower than her savings.

Monthly Expenses Breakdown:

• Mortgage: $1,700
• Child Support: $1,500
• Utilities: $300
• Wi-Fi: $60
• Phone Bill: $27
• Car Insurance: $100
• Gas: $140
• Health Insurance Premium: $90
• Therapy: $50
• Groceries: ~$600/month
• Dining Out: ~$500/month
• Subscriptions: ~$36/month
• 401(k) Contributions: $1,958/month (23:00)

Erica prioritizes saving and retirement, contributing the maximum to her 401(k), amounting to approximately $23,500 annually. This disciplined approach allows her to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while preparing for the future.

Financial Philosophy and Upbringing

Erica's frugality is deeply rooted in her upbringing as a Jehovah's Witness. She explains how her early life instilled values of self-reliance and financial prudence:

"I just learned not to ask my parents for anything, to always take care of myself."
(00:01:29)

Her religious background emphasizes putting the kingdom first and encourages voluntary and charitable giving, shaping her cautious approach to personal spending.

"If I'm paying for something exclusively for myself, it's a challenge."
(00:24:44)

However, Erica finds a balance by being generous towards others, such as buying a plant stand for her daughter without hesitation.

A Week in Erica’s Life: Financial Diary

The episode provides a day-by-day account of Erica’s spending over a week, offering insights into her budgeting strategies and financial priorities.

Day 1: Groceries

• Spent: $38
• Notes: Needed to replenish essentials after returning from a vacation where dining out was prevalent.

Day 2: Beef and Groceries

• Spent: $110
• Reflection:

  "I recognize that I have a privileged position where if eggs were $12, I could still buy them."
  (00:08:02)

Day 3: Groceries and Personal Reflections

• Spent: $40
• Insights: Balancing frugality with maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, Erica discusses the importance of saving for her future and her children’s well-being.

Day 4: Social Life and Dining

• Spent: $17 on Thai food
• Additional Expense: $500 for an unexpected car battery replacement (00:30:45)

  "I believe in an equalization. I don't think people should have to contribute equally into a relationship, especially if they don't make equal money."
  (00:31:06)

Day 5: Minimal Expenses and Savings

• Details: Focused on household supplies with a $70 Amazon purchase, mindful of end-of-semester expenses.

Day 6: Supporting Partner and Future Plans

• Spent: $500
• Plans: Considering a trip to Paris with her daughter to foster cultural exposure and educational experiences.

Day 7: Balanced Spending and Social Commitments

• Spent: $26 on lunch and $70 on household supplies

  "Finding a $5 lunch is a real challenge."
  (00:36:00)

Overall, Erica’s weekly spending totaled $1,026, highlighting her ability to manage a significant income while maintaining disciplined saving habits.

Insights and Reflections

Erica's financial narrative underscores the challenges of sustaining multiple incomes to meet substantial financial obligations. She acknowledges the necessity of her work demands but also recognizes the personal costs, such as reduced quality time with her children and partner.

"Work has always been an escape, at least... And I'm cutting back because I don't need the coping mechanism anymore."
(00:39:20)

Erica emphasizes the importance of balance in relationships, especially concerning financial contributions and support. Her story reflects how personal values and upbringing can profoundly influence financial behaviors and decisions.

Conclusion

"Always On the Clock" offers a compelling look into the life of someone who meticulously navigates multiple income streams to achieve financial stability and personal goals. Erica's story is a testament to the complexities of modern financial management, the impact of upbringing on money habits, and the delicate balance between work, family, and personal well-being.

Notable Quotes:

• "One of my full-time jobs now makes more money than both my parents ever did combined."
  (01:29)

• "I think the tipping point was a pandemic."
  (14:39)

• "I just have to be able to go out and kind of just go bananas and have a good evening without stressing about the costs."
  (08:46)

• "If I cut down to one job, it’s not enough."
  (37:17)

This episode provides a nuanced exploration of income management, personal sacrifice, and the pursuit of financial security, making it a valuable listen for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of work, money, and personal life.