In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with financial therapist, author, and AFC®, Rahkim Sabree, to explore the complex and deeply human realities of financial trauma.

Rahkim breaks down the six sources of financial trauma, from generational cycles and workplace dynamics to systemic barriers and societal expectations. He shares how financial professionals can adopt a trauma-informed lens, why empathy and language are essential in client interactions, and the importance of shifting from shame-based approaches to healing-centered ones.

The conversation also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look into Rahkim’s upcoming book Overcoming Financial Trauma (Wiley, 2025). He reflects on how writing the book transformed his own money story, the healing he’s found in revisiting his past, and why the theme of healing will anchor his keynote at the AFCPE 2025 Symposium.

Whether you’re a financial professional, a community leader, or someone working to redefine your own relationship with money, this episode will leave you with tools, language, and hope to build a healthier, more compassionate approach to financial wellness.

Show Notes:

01:56 Get To Know Rahkim

02:25 Defining financial trauma

06:29 Who is impacted by financial trauma?

10:11 Becoming trauma-informed vs. trauma-responsive

24:10 The power of personal stories in healing

34:42 Empathy, bias, and client relationships

35:38 Looking ahead to Rahkim’s keynote at AFCPE Symposium

37:14 Rahkim's 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Read Rahkim's Forbes Article!

Connect with Rahkim on Linkedin!

Connect with Rahkim on Instagram!

Connect with Rahkim on Twitter!

Visit Rahkim's website!

Explore Rahkim's substack!

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