Inspired Budget Podcast
#247: First-Gen Money Struggles and How to Overcome Them with Maria Melchor
Published: 12 February 2026 at 11:00 Europe/London
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Episode notes
What does it feel like to be the first in your family to graduate, earn a salary, and suddenly make more money than the people who raised you? In this episode, I’m talking with Maria Melchor, creator of FirstGenLiving, about the emotional and financial weight of being first-gen.
Maria shares how she navigated guilt, money confusion, and cultural expectations while trying to build a secure financial life for herself. She talks about finding her footing, setting boundaries, and creating money habits that feel supportive instead of stressful.
If you are the first in your family to “make it,” or you’re working to rewrite old money stories, you’ll feel right at home in this conversation.
Connect with Maria:
Instagram: @firstgenliving
TikTok: @firstgenliving
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