How to Handle Difficult Conversations with Colleagues

This entry is part 2 of 5 in the series Workplace Communication

How to Handle Difficult Conversations with Colleagues (Without Damaging the Relationship) Work relationships are built on more than shared tasks—they’re built on trust, respect, and the ability to talk through tough moments. Whether it’s a disagreement about a project, a clash in communication styles, or tension sparked by personal views shared at lunch, difficult conversations with colleagues are part of every workplace. The key isn’t avoiding those conversations—it’s learning how to handle them in a…

When Security Feels Shaky

If You’re Feeling Uneasy, It’s Okay—These Are Uneasy Times. If you’ve been feeling more anxious than usual lately—about your job, your finances, your future—you’re not alone. The unease you’re feeling isn’t just personal. It’s systemic, and it’s everywhere. These are uneasy times. From rising debt and unstable job markets to cultural division, global conflict, and constant shifts in workplace policy, today’s world feels like it’s moving faster and less predictably than ever. People are quietly…

Gambling Apps Are Coming for Your Pizza Money

A Parent’s Wake-Up Call About College Kids & Gambling Apps I used to think the biggest late-night surprise from my college-aged kids would be a Venmo request for pizza or a textbook they forgot to budget for. But lately, I’ve started hearing different kinds of stories. Stories that don’t end in a laugh or a shared eye-roll. Stories that sit heavy in my chest. Stories that have made me look twice at my own children—and…

The Schrute Buck – Is Still Motivating

Why We Built Dealing With Debt (And How Schrute Bucks Became Part of the Story) Dealing With Debt was born from one simple belief: we’re failing to teach our youth the life skills they need most—especially when it comes to managing money. I started this company with a clear purpose: to help people. Financial education, once a cornerstone of preparing young adults for the real world, has all but disappeared from our schools. And without…

How Good Managers Handle Difficult Conversations

This entry is part 1 of 5 in the series Workplace Communication

How Good Managers Handle Difficult Conversations (And Why It Matters) No one enjoys tough conversations at work. But the way a manager handles those moments—especially when the topic is sensitive—can either build trust or break it. From performance concerns to shifting workplace expectations (like returning to the office after extended remote work), difficult conversations are part of every workplace. What matters most isn’t just what’s said, but how it’s said. If you’re a manager, this…

Your Digital Footprint

The Online You That Employers, Colleagues, Clients, Landlords, and Lenders See A unique name is a blessing and a curse. It makes you stand out—but it also means that the good, the bad, and the ugly about you float to the top of search engine results. Your digital footprint is how search engines see you, and it matters more than ever. The first thing an employer does after reviewing your resume? A Google search. The…

The Connection Between Debt and Stress

Debt and Stress: Understanding the Connection Financial strain can feel like a heavy burden—not just on your budget, but on your body and mind. At Dealing With Debt, we know that money stress is more than just a number. It’s something that affects your health, your relationships, and your overall well-being. That’s why addressing debt means more than crunching numbers. It means understanding how stress shows up—and learning how to manage it with intention. How…

Safeguarding Your Professional Reputation

Protecting Your Professional Reputation: How to Stay Consistent, Credible, and Respected First impressions get you in the door. But it’s your reputation that keeps you invited back. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, building a network, or growing your side business—your reputation is one of your most valuable assets. It’s not just what you say about yourself—it’s what others say when you’re not in the room. And here’s the thing: maintaining a strong reputation doesn’t…

Slay Your Performance Review

Slay Your Annual Performance Review: Prepare, Shine, and Set the Stage for Growth An annual review isn’t just a checkpoint—it’s a strategic opportunity. Handled well, it can lead to more responsibility, better visibility, and yes, even a raise. Here’s how to approach your review with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Think Strategically, Not Just Personally Your review is about your performance—but it’s also about how your work supports the organization. When you connect your achievements to…

The Power of First Impressions

The Power of First Impressions: Why Your First Five Minutes Matter In professional life, the first five minutes can leave a lasting imprint. Whether you’re meeting a future boss, pitching to an investor, or walking into a vendor call—you’re not just exchanging names, you’re shaping perception. People form opinions quickly—and those impressions often stick. Here’s how to make sure what sticks works for you, not against you. Why First Impressions Are So Powerful From a…