For many families, money has traditionally been a topic children weren’t supposed to ask about. Jonathan Morales, Head of Community Banking at JPMorgan Chase, believes it’s becoming a more common conversation at the dinner table. Hear him explain how transparency, accountability, and digital culture are redefining how families talk about, save, and spend money.

A first-generation Cal State Fullerton student, Jonathan initially didn’t plan on a career in finance. One influence on his path was his parents’ difficulty having these conversations. He says that when families avoid discussing money, concepts like banks and budgeting can feel intimidating.

The best way to build confidence is to normalize talking about money. Jonathan suggests including children in discussions like vacation planning, allowances, and saving.

Now that he is a parent, he prioritizes “loud budgeting,” openly stating what can and cannot be afforded. He also emphasizes focusing on progress, not perfection, when building good habits.

See the full transcript and listen to the episode for more of Jonathan’s conversation about normalizing money conversations.

Also Check Out: Students Leading the Financial Literacy Movement

Young people aren’t waiting for others to make financial education relevant, they’re doing it themselves. This panel features three student advocates for financial education: high school students, Alex and Sean, alongside Neziah Osayi, a recent college graduate. 

They share that many young people understand what financial literacy is, but don’t always know how to apply it.

Alex says most students assume their parents will handle anything financial. When students take charge without the right education, they can make mistakes.

They also discuss how quick-fix ideas encourage instant gratification. Sean argues that young people should slow down and fact-check what they see, rather than simply doing what they’re told.

Another issue is the pressure to compare themselves with peers and what they see on social media. Neziah says fear is one reason young people reach for those solutions. 

See the full transcript and listen to the episode for more of their conversation about making finance relevant to students.

Join us for this week’s LIVE event with Jeff Hulett of Personal Finance Reimagined

A personal finance professor at James Madison University and founder of Personal Finance Reimagined, Jeff Hulett, a former banking executive and behavioral economist, will share more about his book, Making Choices, Making Money, which guides readers through life's major financial milestones, from college and career to home buying and investing. 

Register to attend virtually tonight (September 10) at 4pm PT / 7pm ET. 

About the Author

Zach Mann

Zach recently graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Sociology. Zach is a Communications Intern for NGPF, assisting with content creation for NGPF's various platforms. He enjoys contributing to communications that support a mission with a tangible impact.

More posts by Zach