Podcast Summary: "Single Dad at Sea (Part 1)"
Title: Single Dad at Sea (Part 1)
Podcast: What We Spend
Host: Courtney Harrell
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Introduction to Michael
In the premiere episode of "Single Dad at Sea (Part 1)", host Courtney Harrell introduces us to Michael, a 56-year-old single father of 10-year-old twins. Michael is a Spanish teacher residing in Massachusetts, having relocated from New York during the COVID-19 pandemic due to financial constraints. Living in a small village where he's one of three openly gay individuals, Michael emphasizes the sacrifices he's made to provide a stable and loving environment for his children.
Notable Quote:
"I'm a single dad yet, so don't know how we're live."
— Michael [03:08]
Michael's Journey into Fatherhood
Michael's desire to become a father stemmed from a tumultuous relationship with his own absentee and emotionally abusive father. Determined to break the cycle, Michael pursued surrogacy in his early 40s, investing approximately $125,000—a significant financial commitment, largely funded by his savings and family support. His commitment to single parenthood left him with a minimal financial safety net, leading to ongoing financial challenges.
Notable Quote:
"Because smarter spending starts with more flexible options."
— Michael [01:55]
Life as a Single Dad: Financial Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
Navigating life as a single parent on a teacher's salary, Michael discusses the relentless cycle of debt he's entrenched in. Despite his full-time job bringing in approximately $39,000 annually and an inconsistent tutoring side income of around $20,000, his expenses far exceed his earnings. Major costs include mortgage payments, car loans, utilities, and essential expenses for his twins' upbringing. Michael candidly shares his coping mechanisms, which include relying heavily on credit cards and a home equity line of credit, leading to substantial debt accumulation.
Notable Quotes:
"Denial. It's a theme."
— Michael [07:00]
"Everything goes on one credit card because it gets me miles."
— Michael [12:15]
The Decision to Take a Family Cruise
Seeking a break from financial pressures, Michael and a teacher friend decided to take advantage of a cruise deal: buy one ticket and get the second child's ticket free. Additionally, by utilizing credit card points for flights, they anticipated a cost-effective family vacation. However, this decision would soon unravel unforeseen challenges.
Day 1: Unexpected College Crowd and Financial Surprises
Upon boarding the cruise, Michael expected a serene trip populated by elderly passengers. To his surprise, the cruise was designated as the largest spring break party ship, teeming with over a thousand college students. This revelation marked the beginning of unexpected financial strains, including daily gratuity fees and additional costs that had not been initially considered.
Notable Quotes:
"I'm a single dad yet, so don't know how we're live."
— Michael [03:08]
"My credit card just feels like I can't get it under control."
— Michael [12:29]
"It's insanity. The hours are insane."
— Michael [09:47]
Day 1: Emotional and Financial Toll
The first day took an emotional turn when Michael's daughter fell ill, leading to unforeseen expenses like emergency supplies from the ship's minibar. The cumulative effect of hidden fees, such as an $18 daily gratuity charge per person, pushed Michael's financial anxiety to new heights.
Notable Quote:
"I've been on them about that. And then like, my son gets really scared at night, so sometimes I'll say, do you want me to leave the light on, honey? And he'll be like, no, I don't want you to spend the money."
— Michael [35:56]
Day 2: Shark Tour Mishaps and Additional Costs
Michael's plans for a shark tour went awry when miscommunications led to additional unexpected fees. Initially planning to skip purchasing additional tickets, Michael found he had to pay for his participation, further straining his already tight budget. Despite these setbacks, the experience provided memorable moments for his children but left Michael reflecting on the true cost of such excursions.
Notable Quote:
"That's awesome. That was $50 a minute for you to pretend that you were swimming with sharks."
— Michael [30:01]
Emotional Impact on Michael and His Children
Throughout the cruise, Michael grapples with the dual challenge of managing his finances and shielding his children from his financial stress. He acknowledges the delicate balance between providing enjoyable experiences for his kids and the underlying guilt and anxiety about the costs involved.
Notable Quotes:
"My children are absorbing my stress about finances. It's just impossible."
— Michael [35:56]
"I wish it wasn't tied into them knowing that I spent a lot of money."
— Michael [37:31]
Reflection and Looking Ahead
As the first part of his week onboard concludes, Michael reflects on the complexities of balancing financial responsibility with the desire to offer his children memorable experiences. Despite the challenges faced during the cruise, he recognizes the importance of these moments but remains acutely aware of the financial implications. The episode sets the stage for the second part, where Michael will navigate returning to daily life post-cruise.
Notable Quote:
"I wish it wasn't tied into them knowing that I spent a lot of money."
— Michael [37:39]
Conclusion
"Single Dad at Sea (Part 1)" offers a poignant glimpse into the life of Michael, illustrating the intricate dance between financial management and personal fulfillment as a single parent. Through Michael's candid storytelling, listeners gain insight into the real-world challenges faced by those striving to provide for their families amidst financial constraints.
Notable Timestamps and Quotes:
- [02:32] Michael discusses his initial thoughts on wanting twins for financial reasons.
- [05:35] Michael reveals his motivations for desiring fatherhood: "I had a horrible father. Really? It's hard. Not a good person."
- [07:00] Courtney asks about his financial planning, to which Michael responds with denial as a coping mechanism.
- [12:15] Michael explains his reliance on a single credit card for all expenses: "Everything goes on one credit card because it gets me miles."
- [24:35] Michael recounts his daughter’s sudden illness on the cruise and the ensuing financial burden.
This summary captures the essence of Michael's financial and emotional journey during his family cruise, highlighting the challenges of single parenthood intertwined with financial stress.