In many African-American families, when we have an important issue to discuss we gather in the kitchen and bring it to the table. That’s especially true of financial discussions, whether about how to pay the bills, how to send Junior to college or where to start looking for a new job.
For the next eight weeks, The Root Live: Bring It to the Table, hosted by Harriette Cole, will dig deep with expert guests for solutions to some of your family’s most vexing financial concerns. Sponsored by Prudential, The Root Live: Bring It to the Table will address such topics as caring for elderly relatives, being a financially successful parent, retiring young and finding creative ways to fund an education.
In the third episode, which premieres on Wednesday at 11 a.m. EST at The Root, we’re talking about “Getting Out of Debt.” We will discuss the challenges that many African Americans face when it comes to dealing with debt. Sharon Epperson, who covers personal finance for CNBC, will discuss options—which should not include eating into a 401(k) plan or other retirement instrument. Budget counselor David Flores will explore the free help available for people in need and how to create a budget. We will also be joined by Kara Stevens, the Frugal Feminista, who is an example of someone who learned budgeting from a young age and was able to pay for her three degrees very quickly. She was even able to eliminate $35,000 in credit card debt within two years.
The Root Live: Bring It to the Table can be seen here at The Root every Wednesday at 11 a.m.