How A No-Buy Year Can Change Your Brain's Response To Consumerism

Chelsea speaks with KZbinr Hannah Louise Poston about her year-long no-buy challenge, battling consumerism, and how her attachment to material items has changed.
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[@manda_d]

The idea I remind myself about all the time is this: capitalism offers us consumption as a hollow substitute for meaning.

[@Sunshine4]

this!

[@RaniaMich]

Someone should make cross stitch pieces out of this hahahahahahaha

[@MIOLAZARUS]

Hear hear.

[@fray-adjacent]

Yes, I think this is the fundamental issue for so many of us. Many of us want to connect with people, to have purpose in our lives - meaning, as you said - but we don't have the time or energy and we can't get that authentic connection through wage labour. Consumerism is also for many of us the primary way we can exercise agency. We don't have power politically or in our workplaces, but we can decide what to buy to some extent.

[@MIOLAZARUS]

@@fray-adjacent so well put💓

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I remember when my ex got his third $10K bicycle, but was criticizing me for buying some new socks! It’s so true, sexism pervades the financial world, too. Throughout my marriage, I was the only one who worked, but he still griped about me buying anything new to wear. The formal clothes required for my corporate career were “unnecessary”, but not his extensive collection of expensive cycling outfits. Then, when I was in the process of divorcing him, my (male) lawyer criticized me for having a tiny wardrobe budget in my estimated expense budget, while wearing his custom-made suits and expensive Italian leather shoes! I got rid of him, too, and got a great female lawyer!

[@Redlights111]

That is crazy.

[@karenmartin9008]

Must be a generational thing, mine was the same. When he was the sole, then main breadwinner he was happy for me to manage all aspects of our budget (and I maintained a comfortable financial situation, even when our income was at the very lower end of the scale), but always criticised my very few clothing purchases for myself (never the higher quality items I scrimped and saved to purchase for him as birthday/Xmas gifts). Now I earn 4 times his salary, and our discretionary income is generous. He still occasionally makes a comment if I make a few purchases in quick succession, but I just give him the death stare, and that's the end of the conversation!😂

[@SpectrumOfChange]

Ugh, it is truly mind boggling, the double standard

[@thatonedog819]

My boyfriend criticized me for spending $40 on plants...he spends $300/ month on cigarettes.

[@italythroughmyeyes]

What a great ending! You rock! I got rid of a few myself lol!

[@drax17]

‘Shopping for beautiful things in a life ruining way’. - this hits home.

[@jae-annedanae4512]

Random but I love the way that if she doesn’t necessarily agree with what Chelsea said or the way she has said it, she’ll actually combat it and say exactly what she means. It’s always nice seeing people be clear about their thoughts and not being swayed easily

[@ZijnShayatanica]

Exactly! I really loved how the were able to hold different thought processes & approaches, but meet eachother where they were at to understand why it works for them in particular. Their confidence is refreshing &... Frankly, inspiring!

[@dizzytel]

Yes! I noticed that too

[@snoozyq9576]

Its not really random if it's referring to the video. Random would be like I enjoy ice cream

[@saramichaels3853]

@@snoozyq9576 No, she sucks as an interviewer. She talks. about herself, rearranges her clothing, etc. She seems haughty and judgmental.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Chelsea and everyone at TFD, thank you so much for having me as a guest! 'The Hacking of the American Mind' actually IS by Robert Lustig-his was the name on my lips in the moment but I second-guessed myself. I loved reading it during my no-buy year!

[@foxiroonie91210]

Hannah this was awesome!! I’m so glad you were able to do this.

[@natashatrilokekar2435]

So proud of you for this Hannah, I can't even tell you! The collab of my hopes and dreams

[@TheLauren2229]

I am so proud of you, Hannah!

[@ktburger659]

Your channel changed my life! Thanks for all you do!

[@fadighaleebdiaz9852]

You were awesome, Hannah! Such a lovely and insightful interview

[@AnonymousOregonian]

I commented on one of Hannah's videos years ago, saying how perfect a colab with The Financial Diet would be. Hannah replied to my comment saying how she would love to but thought she wasn't a big enough creator yet for them to be interested. I'm so glad it's finally happened!

[@molly_frances]

Love that

[@natashatrilokekar2435]

Same!!! I'm so thrilled they did this!

[@kendallstark4302]

Ask, and you shall receive 💖

[@EiLpigreco]

😍

[@kandrisa]

I’ve been waiting for years too!

[@carriei7017]

Oh man, that twenty minute mark where Hannah talks about the lifelong work of beauty vs the instant gratification of a beauty product, I so feel that. This is a real issue creative people face!

[@lizziebkennedy7505]

I am gobsmacked - see it immediately, everywhere.

[@investingwithkat]

Me too!! Everything is sooooo beautiful! I literally tell myself “take it in- admire it, and take a picture if you want to look at it” to stop shopping

[@polymathica]

I loved that deviation from the question and was sad when she got back on track; does she fully elucidate on it somewhere else? I need to hear a conclusion because this is exactly what drives my overspending too and I’m also heading into a no-buy year.

[@rabbit2rabbit735]

I’m paraphrasing here, but there’s a spot in one of Hannah’s videos where she says “you think you’re buying a miracle in a tube, but you get home, use it, and realize it’s just mascara”. SO true!

[@MISSMADISONMEDIA]

Damn this one hits different. No one talks about SPECIFICALLY how difficult it is to not give up on your creative dreams while chasing financial stability. Thank you so much for your channel!!!

[@fab9db]

Beautiful things are my vice too 😭 The way she's talked about being compelled by colour and beauty may sound ridiculous to some, but I relate soooo much

[@drebugsita]

Same! I was practically born that way. I'm a visual artist and have ALWAYS had a deep appreciation for the seductive power of color, texture, etc and am totally susceptible to good marketing

[@kittybelly]

Big big big factor in my ground coffee purchases 🤪

[@stefanisilva2493]

@@drebugsita This kind of people NEED to turn this passion into something profitable and chalenging. Doesn't need to be as profession but a fun side hussle. I had to start painting when I understood most of the euphoria of going to stores was seing beautiful, new color schemes.

[@rachels14]

I don't relate to this at all, but her explaining it this way helped me understand why some people are so drawn to things like that.

[@janicewhitney3260]

Yes I have related with that too.

[@Ro53mary]

I completely get what Hannah was saying. The unhappiness was from not having the creative success she wanted and shopping as a form of escapism or band aid to her longing of success and beautiful things. I don't think she is alone in drawing to that conclusion. It's common in lots of people. I think no-buy is a good way of re-examining your habits and appreciating material things without owning it. I ALSO believe that creatives are extreme undervalued and underpaid so it may be that at the time she did have reason to buy some of these things but her income was so low.

[@geneveiveharper]

I absolutely agree with the idea of chucking clothes that you don't feel good in. Even pajamas. There's no sense in keeping them because if nothing else you'll end up wearing them when you are behind on laundry, and then you'll feel gross. That is my experience anyway. I never regret getting rid of stuff that I didn't feel good in.

[@mzzzzzzday]

I feel the exact same way! I either return them to the store if I still can or donate so they don't take up space.

[@kadamowicz68]

You mean the underwear, bras, and socks you keep just in case? 🙈 I feel attacked.

[@Lashlove16]

I think you should pair down as well and then replace when needed. For example I had 60 pairs of underwear. Some new some really worn out , some not so comfy . You typically wear the same ones over and over . So I got rid of them and now buy 10 pairs on sake per year and get rid of the most of the old ones . I think 15-20 pairs is sufficient and I do laundry almost every 10 days. I keep a few of the older pj’s or clothes for my “ cleaning outfits” that I usually deep clean for an hour once 1 week

[@mzzzzzzday]

@@Lashlove16 I'm the same. Every few months I get rid of pairs I dislike and get a few more. They don't cost as much as other things. Bras are another story and are an investment for me.

[@Lashlove16]

@@mzzzzzzday lol the $65 bra struggle is so real as I need a minimizer by wacoal

[@angelaa.9915]

Not to be dramatic, but this woman changed my life. Big love for Hannah.

[@elysemelon]

Big same

[@rose-co1xz]

Same!

[@rebeccah6775]

Same

[@kirstinkellyohlson5832]

Same

[@Chelsea-rc6yo]

Me too! Hannah’s content has been so helpful in understanding my own relationship with consumption.

[@jingjin6897]

So related to what Hannah said about the struggle of the want of creativity replaced by marketing and the relief of purchasing. I realize if I am actually intentionally create more, the itch of buying decreases.

[@figuringitout4732]

Woahhhh...I think that's been the same for me too. I'm going to keep an eye on that

[@drebugsita]

REALLY interesting and important, relatable aha moment point!!!

[@ralphiesarch8980]

I learned that putting away clothes for years that you don't wear and finding them again is like going thrift shopping in your own closet. Since the fashion of the 00s is back, I'm re-wearing things I used to wear in high school and middle school. I'll call it time capsule closet shopping

[@herefortheshrimp1469]

My god this collab makes so much sense!!! Hannah has honestly changed my life and kept me from falling off of an edge when it came to beauty spending. On top of that, she is beauty and poise and an extremely warm personality all rolled up into one ❤️ (also - SHE’S 37?!?!)

[@ohkay2090]

I guess the recent vacuuming content should have clued us into the older 30's 😆

[@nattiesgarden]

This makes it sound like being 37 is the end of the world. It happens sooner than you think!

[@JuliaTaylorSoprano]

I can really tell this is LA talking to NYC. 🤣 Great episode! I really enjoyed it as an artist who struggles in times of anxiety or depression with compulsive shopping

[@naahhhhHHHHHHHHHH]

Haha that’s a great way to put it. I definitely noticed too.

[@eclairtreo]

Yes, I noticed it as well. Such different perspectives yes so much in common.

[@licoreen]

I did a no-shopping year when I was 26. I had returned from traveling abroad for two months and found shopping repulsive. Why spend time looking for clothes when you already have clothes? Who cares what thing people temporarily admire? It’s been almost 20 years since then, and my attitude is similar but less extreme.

[@nataliekmaguire]

I just came back from a holiday in which I lived quite comfortably in a small room with only a suitcase of clothes. Coming home to my heaving wardrobe and all my Stuff honestly made me feel uncomfortable.

[@natiplans]

I have had a similar experience returning from Turkey but then go back to old habits.

[@Coastpsych_fi99]

I feel the same after travelling. You realise how few clothes you actually need and how little it matters when you only have a limited space.

[@strawberry_punch_art]

I feel the same about clothes. I gained a bit weight and my pants started to be a bit tight after years of same size. But I dread finding new comfy ones so much, just the pain of standarized clothing. I rather be doing a habit check and start moving more, home office really did me dirty on this.

[@beautifuledie]

I gotta agree with Chelsea and her characterization of addiction. It was a little confusing when Hannah on one hand was explaining behaviors using the language of addiction specifically but unwilling to say she was addicted. Addiction of whatever kind can be really shaming inducing, and everyone deals with it differently. I'm glad that Chelsea brought up that addiction is a spectrum and does not always present itself as an extreme manifestation of severe debt etc.

[@dw7896]

Right off the bat, I'd like to say that Hannah's 2017 behaviour was definitely (and alarmingly) addictive, no question. However, I think that there will probably always be an element of shame involved for her when it comes to the no buy year, especially since it happened in such a public way. When I listen to her describe it, it rings of that internal struggle of having an accomplishment that one is extremely proud of, but you can't celebrate it without a consistent reminder of the behaviour from which you dragged yourself. I also do think, though, that further down the line she'll be able to use the objective terms to describe it without the same shameful feelings that we can see below the surface.

[@lizziebkennedy7505]

Discomfort is part of this journey. We don’t get to reframe another’s experience because it pushes our buttons. Addiction is a long road with a lotta stopovers.

[@junejunejuniejune]

additction IS on a spectrum. If you have a behavior that causes negative effects in your life that you know deep down is bad, and do jt anyway... thats an addiction! You don't have to spend $30,000, you can be spending $300, knowing that you have no business doing so.

[@Christinamychas]

Love to see Hannah here! Hannah’s no buy and Aja Dang inspired my entire journey to become debt free & changing my relationship with my spending. So cool to see her on TFD!

[@MargaretQ]

Christina next 🔥

[@rocioiribe5841]

Can we get Christina on here?!! Christina's videos have helped me so much!

[@Girasoles]

OMG Christina i love your channel!! Please get her on TFD!!

[@usehername1]

What Aja Dang video do you recommend for someone who doesn't know her?

[@jodywinter8171]

This really spoke to me. Hannah articulated things that hadn't even occurred to me. After nearly two years of working from home almost exclusively, my own relationship with clothes and style has been up-ended. The concept of wanting something because you need to show you own beautiful things is something I will ponder for the next little while!

[@dollyrevenge98]

This is an interesting viewpoint and one I'm excited to shift away from because I realize that on the grand scheme of things, others don't care deeply about it. Thinking about home decor for example, I found myself in the past buying at least some home decor so that guests would appreciate it even though I really do not care for it.

[@birdiewolf3497]

I felt a sort of opposite reaction. Like wfh has giving me the license to express my creativity in fashion, but out in public I feel the need to tone it down. I only really "show off" around people I trust.

[@rachels14]

Working from home for 2+ years made me realize I only wear my wedding ring, makeup, and bra for other people. It's really frustrating.

[@troyDM9330]

She may be one of the mosy eloquent, artistic, and pragmatic speaker's I've ever witnessed

[@JazDelilah]

I'm 29 minutes into this and all I can say is: I have ADHD + PMDD and what she's describing has defined my life. My ADHD + really bad mood disregulation from PMS/PMDD always cause these episodes for me: "my life is a mess anyway, let me at least secure my identity/wellbeing." Always convinced I'll either fix it later or that it doesn't matter anyway, it's never going to be okay, so let me at least enjoy the mental and emotional soothing those things will bring me. It's not a matter of intelligence or knowledge. I actually arrange payment plans for customers as part of my day job, I can draw up extensive excel sheets for budgeting and when all my ducks are in a row, I can really excel financially(ha.) But the second I feel I hit a dead end - either just feeling depressed from hormones or a sudden hardship or bill I do not see an immediate solution to, none of it matters anymore and all that matters is that emotional itch. I never bought things mindlessly, carelessly or for status/social credit. I would spend hours and hours hyperfocusing, doing extensive research, making things perfect and planning this improvement in either convenience (things that made my daily life easier, home goods and tech) or identity (hair, clothing, makeup, decor - not for others but to make everything feel EXACTLY like I want it to.) It wasn't a matter of acquiring material goods to /have/ more and more, to hoard, I would actually declutter in favor of better and more effective things. But when I found that thing I wanted and it was just right, I would OBSESS over it. It would be everything I cared about and feel like the most urgent, important thing in the world. It was a matter of control and psychological discomfort. Losing perspective due to emotional disregulation or practical issues. Only seeing the problem and not the solution, and therefore abandoning everything entirely and fixing your feelings. Not being able to control your circumstances, instead choosing to control your appearance or house. When my budget plan worked out for the month without any issues, I would never even consider buying those things unless I was in a really really depressed state. I wouldn't even think about it. I would save up and enjoy having a buffer and savings goals. But when I feel bad like that, I'll actively examine what's missing in my life and what I need to buy. I learned two things. 1. The moment I start feeling those feelings, like I'm hitting a dead end or I don't see a solution, I need to REACH OUT. Ask a loved one, ask a professional, tell them: I'm hitting this dead end, I can't pay this bill/make this unexpected purchase/I feel awful. Actively create space to seek a solution other than the spending. Invite people to give the perspective I'm lacking myself. And the other thing (2) is that the feeling of urgency goes away. When I write down what I wanted to buy so badly, and give it a nice little place in my notebook and make a very solid decision to STOP looking at the online store, not do this right now, go cook dinner like I actually need to - the feeling will pass and I can forget about the thing for ages. It will come up again when needed, in a better headspace, and I'll make a much better decision then. Directing away from the ACT of researching the item or browsing the store and towards a different activity like household chores, rather than directing away from the potential purchase, works so well for me. Suddenly my mind has a good perspective again: I can cook this dinner and eat and I'll be nourished and do the dishes and feed the cat and go to bed. No more dead end. This became way longer than I intended and there's a huge chance no one will read it, but if even one person feels better reading it that'd be worth it 🙃

[@thekingwhostitches]

Thank you for sharing ❤ you’re very brave and I appreciate your efforts in tackling this in your life.

[@sarabastress6433]

Thank you so much for sharing this ❤

[@usehername1]

The notebook trick is great! Giving the idea or object a place to live instead of in your head is so helpful.

[@eclairtreo]

It was a valuable post. Thank you so much.

[@AlyssaHarrisMusic]

I relate to this 1000%

[@NhiTran-qz2fs]

I’ve been an avid follower of both TFD and Hannah for years. This is just a perfect collaboration!

[@Jasmine-in-my-mind]

I relate so much to that feeling of being ashamed for caring about fashion and makeup. I'm in my 50's and have fought those feelings for all of my adult life. For me, it actually helped that I became an artist (musician) in my teens and continued on that career path through my 20's. It taught me to respect the importance of beauty in one's life (and in society). Unfortunately, a life in art and academia has also made it very challenging for me to manage my money! I've watched Hannah's channel from day 1 and have found it very inspiring as well as entertaining for the makeup content. :)

[@trulyAmatulHaqq]

this is EXACTLY the collab i've been hoping for!!

[@Sunshine4]

Really interested if she considered that having a partner can make it easier to do a long term buy year. If you are solo, you must do everything for and by yourself (of course you have family and friends, but as you get older they are less available because of marriage, kids, higher career positions). I always find that I overspend when I feel empty inside, I tell myself, " well you are the only person who can make this happen why not?!" I find that I spend less when I feel loved and honestly, getting regular intimacy. Thanks for this talk!

[@ifetayodavidson-cade5613]

The role of emotions in spending wisely (or not) is huge for many people. It helps to create a list of budget-friendly ways you can get your emotional needs met. For me, exercise with some high intensity bursts or weight lifting or yoga helps with the dopamine hit and focus. Also creative pursuits & hobbies help. It’s hard when you are feeling low and it’s too early or late for a walk or a phone call especially since online shopping is available 24/7.

[@lesleyc2704]

HLP had her community along with her on the journey. I encourage you to watch the playlist on her No Buy year

[@Sunshine4]

@@lesleyc2704 thanks for the reference!

[@Sunshine4]

@@ifetayodavidson-cade5613 thanks for the tips.

[@egyptianqueen4007]

I agree with you. I do think saving money is easier when you have a partner because you're splitting the bills. I've noticed a lot of couples don't mention that. As a single person it is much harder but not impossible. You just have to really discipline yourself.

[@tabatha82]

OMG HANNAH!!!!! I’ve been following her right from the end of her initial no-buy year and her channel has helped me a ton to figure out how to handle my own relationship with makeup/beautiful things, I’m sooo happy to see her sharing her experience with other creators 💚💚

[@AlexielRaziel]

saaaame!

[@jackyyrag]

I'm halfway through my No Buy year and thinking about extending it to two years. This year i focused on just clothes, but i realized I spend a lot on home decor i don't use lol, so want to focus on both clothes and home stuff for the second year. Looking forward to learning about her experience!

[@LLLLLP0]

your comment is so inspiring, I really want to get into no buy

[@jackyyrag]

@@LLLLLP0 you should try it! After watching this video, i went over to Hannah's channel. She has some videos on No Buy 2022 advice and guidelines, that might help you get started. I've done No Buy Months, and even for 6 months. This is my first time doing a year and i think doing the smaller time frames first helped prepare me for this

[@jackyyrag]

@@LLLLLP0 also, one of my friends switches categories every month. So one month, she does No Buy just for makeup, the next for clothes, etc. That might be more manageable to get started as well

[@LLLLLP0]

@@jackyyrag girl you're an angel thank you so so much I appreciate you taking the time to guide me through this!! ♥️ I will educate myself tonight and start!!♥️♥️ Thank you so much!!!

[@BookishScribe]

6 minutes in an Hannah already may be one of the most interesting people ever!

[@micheledoblitz7798]

This is by far one of the most meaningful KZbin videos I’ve watched in a while. I was struck by Hannah’s poise and how she spoke with such care about her healing journey with impulsive spending. I’m inspired to do a no-buy year. Thank you TFD!

[@mermeow]

Hannah sums up my spending problems purrfectly. I, too, search out & buy beautiful, artistic items. I have strived to surround myself with beauty since I was a child, but it only became a problem once I was an adult & earning a paycheck that I would spend immediately. I'd make sure to pay my bills, but would spend the rest on stuff I didn't need, but desperately wanted. Ugh. Need to stop. I've managed to do No-Buy Months, but have not done a year.

[@tessa6307]

I’d be interested to see an interview about finances and neurodiversity. My compulsive spending gets triggered similar to my sugar cravings. A lot of it probably stems from my ADHD brain looking for some dopamine.

[@shelleynichols9626]

Dame Hannah Louise Poston! THE most thoughtful content in the beauty sphere. So happy to see her getting this kind of exposure. Well done, Chelsea and team!!

[@hc6157]

Would love to see you guys talking again! You guys have such good chemistry and it really made for great nuance in your discussion here!

[@nataliekmaguire]

This was SUCH an incredible interview, I could have easily listened to another hour of it. I was interested in Hannah's experiences in her no-buy year (for the first time in my life, I'm considering doing something similar for myself), but the discussions around buying beautiful things as shorthand for creative expression, plus the relationships between creative communities and money, were so spookily relevant to me, I would have been happy for the entire interview to be about that. I would love to listen to another interview with Hannah, or even her own segment on the show!

[@lesleyc2704]

Clicked on TFD because I’m subscribed to HLP. I love her content and have followed her since her No Buy Year. Her grace, intelligence, wit and beauty and honest exploration of her journey continues to be a thoughtful and engaging process.

[@ghostlyMostly1]

Oh my gosh, I collab I did not expect but one that makes perfect sense. I love Hannah's ability to articulate her feelings around beauty, money, stuff, self worth, and all the intersections. Her content really helped me moderate my spending and take a hard look at whether or not I use what I buy.

[@Robin-no8cu]

HLP has one of my regular channels and her “no buy” videos have helped me immensely. Kudos for connecting with her.

[@courtneyshannon2621]

The part around 15:00 where you say that financial disfunction is normalized in the creative community.. that's also true in other sectors, like the non-profit sector. Environmental chemistry is one too because most of those jobs pay so little.

[@elysemelon]

My worlds are colliding. Thank you so much for this video from my two favorites! TFD and HLP have been INTEGRAL to me cleaning up my financial life. I seriously owe you two ladies so much. ❤️❤️❤️

[@elenaadler4633]

Probably one of the most healing conversations at TFD. Thank you, TFD team and Hannah!! Just subscribed to Hannah's channel.

[@rachellopez8357]

Hannah, this is why we love you! Your honesty and vulnerability makes us feel so much less alone. Love you so much 💗

[@shakalakazam]

The way Hannah describes needing those clothes around the 27:30 mark perfectly articulates the struggle I have. It is so comforting to know that a) I am not crazy and b) not the only one who has felt like this about something (literally) so superficial when I don’t consider myself to be a superficial person.

[@evashea3842]

Love everything about this conversation, could listen to Hannah & Chelsea for hours! Please have Hannah back for more!

[@jackiewomble5969]

loved this one - probably one of my favorite episodes. I'd followed Hannah previously, but so many topics discussed. Really hope you have her back for more

[@vmpapillon8984]

This popped up randomly when I searched for videos on no buys. Have to say this incredibly well articulated. I admire the guest for how self-aware she is and able to explain this so well.

[@AyH25]

You should have her back on to discuss the other stuff! This was a super great and relatable conversation

[@sarahbannon4752]

The segment on serotonin vs dopamine was eye-opening, and will probably cull my sugar addiction, and wanting to buy clothing, stone dead.

[@staceywingard7073]

Just because you’re able to bail yourself out doesn’t mean you don’t have an addiction.

[@inthevault9603]

All the prep for buying something is much better and satisfying than the actually buying. After you buy something it actually causes depression bc the anticipation is gone and then you go onto the next purchase.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

As someone who’s part of a cultural ecosystem which creates repeated demand, this video is manna from heaven.

[@evaperson3976]

How refreshing to hear a deep and insightful conversation that doesn't denigrate women's relationship between the pursuit of femininity, happiness, and financial security. The realistic time frame to attain self awareness about your relationship to consumerism, was a very gentle approach within the dramatic decision to stop cold turkey, which allowed you to keep on your path. Great talk.

[@LucyStokesOceansofNotions]

I luckily discovered Hannah during her no buy year. What a collab!

[@drizzletohurricane]

So happy to see Hannah on TFD!! Even though I've never had a problem with overspending, I find her perspective on shopping and beautiful things so interesting.

[@Nickysmom]

Overspending is the way I lived my life but I always made a lot of money and never faced up to it. Always managed to dig myself out. Now I tell myself just because I LIKE it doesn’t mean I should buy it. I talk myself out of things most of the time, though not full proof. Your story inspires me to set more stringent and ambitious goals. Thank you

[@Kbydfrsghusy]

The tango community in my city attracts some of the wealthiest people ever. Mostly doctors and engineers who spend hundreds on shoes and clothes. Tango is a very complicated bed hard to learn dance, it requires years of training to be halfway decent. Private classes are extremely expensive.

[@AliMakesEverything]

The interview of my dreams is here! 😍 I've watched basically every video Hannah's ever made yet this still felt so enlightening. Between Chelsea's amazing questions and Hannah's indefatigable thoughtfulness, I could listen to ten more hours of this. Thank you for making this interview happen!

[@natashatrilokekar2435]

The way I've been gunning for this collab!

[@minniemeowmix2934]

Wow, this is my most favorite episode of TFD of all time. Thank You!

[@ashleycnossen3157]

She just perfectly explained why I've started having a spending problem. I couldn't put the words to it. Now I feel that I can sort out. Thank you for sharing.

[@junebug052003]

Hannah was such a unique speaker. It's a breath of fresh air to hear an artists story. I hear her passion when she speaks and I can connect with that.

[@kristendiaz3113]

I’ve been watching Hannah for years, I think she had maybe 2,000 subs when I found her. She is a lovely person and I love falling asleep to her voice at night with a playlist almost like ASMR. I valued her lessons, but if I’m being honest have not implemented them fully. Hearing this specific interview when she started to talk about how unhappy she truly was before her no-buy year…TRULY hit me this time. I can relate with this at the current moment and really need to change my habits. My serotonin and dopamine receptors I’m sure are completely out of wack. Thank you Hannah and Chelsea for this interview. The journey to true “happiness” starts today.

[@ahc6026]

Chelsea you did a great job of being patient and re-steering the conversation multiple times. As a fellow artist sometimes the lack of direct communication doesn’t allow people to take our experiences/knowledge seriously so kudos!!

[@LJernegan]

It is so beautiful to see two articulate women discussing such important topics. I watched HLP’s whole no buy year. It was very inspiring. I grew up in a family that had investments, but looked less wealthy on the outside. We drove old cars and didn’t upgrade the house. I always had everything I needed and a lot of what I wanted, but saving was a priority. Now as an adult, I try to be the same. I do collect a few things, but we try to live our values. We put money into education and having fun. Living in a giant house is not a desire. So I have never tried to look more wealthy than I am, but I do like to look nice.

[@cottonbook9229]

Could have listened to another hour, for real! You can just feel it when it's one of those conversations where every new thought sparks a thousand other great conversation topics and you could go on conversing for ever. Such a good feeling!

[@mar_jahan]

Hannah's content was life changing for me at the tail end of 2019 and my journey to becoming debt free and happy with what I own. Her grace and vulnerability gave me chills once again!

[@mojo.jojo721]

😱😱😱 So excited to see Hannah and TFD collaborate! Such a perfect match! Been watching you both for years!! 💜💜💜💜

[@clairewillow6475]

This was so interesting! The talk at the end about the fleeting joy of a dopamine hit vs the more sustainable contentment of serotonin was really cool.. here I am with a shopping problem and admitting that I’m kind of “unhappy” so to speak, has been hard for me too

[@jordana145]

@Chelsea ㊉①②①⑨④②④②⑧⑨⑦ Would love to hear stories from women who realized they had ADHD in their Late 20s/30s and have transformed their Financial Life after diagnosis and medication.

[@deniseb7370]

This made my day! I have watched & rewatched Hannah’s no-spend year on her YT channel, and it is so powerful! I need to go back and watch again. Thank you so much for today’s video! ❤️

[@alisalaska1786]

When you grow up without a lot and finally make some money, it is so easy to go crazy with it. I did the same thing. I have enough makeup for a lifetime. The pandemic marrying my fiscally conservative husband made me change my ways. It is hard to get out of when you’re in it. Same goes for food. Even my perspective on what is a lot of money has changed drastically. Good episode!

[@andykimbrough9019]

I’ve been doing this thing where I allow my feral instincts to take over and I take and spruce up discarded furniture and accessories when people leave them out. It fills the voice of “new stuff” without me spending $150 on Amazon that I don’t have

[@TimeQuxxn]

NOOOOOO WAY!!!!! What a great collab!!!! Love Hannah's advice as a previous compulsive spender

[@JimmieHammel]

I never thought about how the things I feel I NEED to spend money on are tied into my identity. I find it easy to purge clothes, makeup, and jewelry, but it hurts me physically to get rid of pens, notebooks, and post it notes. And the last item I felt strongly compelled to buy even though I'm supposed to be on a spending diet while I save for a house, was a leather messenger bag. It all comes back to my identity as a creative writer.

[@ZijnShayatanica]

Very much relatable! I also have difficulty resisting the temptation to buy more notebooks, pens, & whatnot. I also have writing as a core part of who I am... I really appreciate her making that distinction!

[@abiola33]

Totally hear you on that! I am a freelance writer/journalist separate from my digital day job, I love nice clothes, good skin care items and buy nice things for myself, but I have never felt a way about donating clothes, shoes, other household bits etc when I am doing a flat clean out. Books I’ve had for years, I cannot bear to part with AT ALL. Notebooks, some old university reading bits, books I haven’t read in a while, I just can’t do it. Only once have I ever thrown out some old creative writing stuff from uni, yet with other old goods I don’t feel that strongly.

[@eclairtreo]

@@abiola33 Yes, my old university notes, my books, you will have to pry out of my cold dead hands. Shoes mostly difficult too. They are like my children.

[@abiola33]

@@eclairtreo I totally hear you!

[@virginiaWT4237]

See I love clothing cuz my favorite thing is fashion! I don’t need 100 items of clothing it’s just I need the RIGHT clothing, and I don’t have the right clothing and that’s why I feel the need to reach for clothing … I have one pat of pants and 2 skirts that’s if for bottoms I like to wear … they rest are weird old workout bottoms and I hate wearing things like that … I like to wear dresses and skirts and my corsets ect not old work out attire … I’m trying to get my closet to the state of where I have everything I need, I have pants I have long sleeves I have socks ok. We are done , then I feel I won’t reach so much 😂

[@lisaa6099]

I like these 2 women, they are on the ball and seem genuine

[@neonbuildings]

Loved this interview! As a creative person who's put many of her creative endeavors on the back burner in order to establish an environmental career, it's incredibly frustrating when you meet other artists who shame you for being responsible. I shouldn't be made to feel guilty for having what I have now because it is absolutely a sacrifice to make more responsible fiscal decisions. My creative peers chose their own paths and there are often lifestyle sacrifices that come with it. On the other hand, they also tend to have more freedom to do what they want and less pressure to make sound, "adult" decisions... I moved out of my old housemate situation to move into a nice duplex with my boyfriend. One of my ex housemates was very bitter that my boyfriend and I were moving towards establishing a life together because he was forced to move back in with his parents (with fiancé in tow) due to skyrocketing cost of living in our city... My boyfriend and I were saving all year to move out together while he was frivolously blowing their money away and couldn't pay bills on time half the year. Many artists "don't care about money" until they're faced with the harsh reality of what their irresponsibility has led them to. That said, I feel that I'm in a place where I can dedicate more time towards my creative projects now that I'm living in a place of peace and calm. Life undulates and I'm here for the ride.

[@clickypens]

Favorite collab ever. Hannah has such balance and never negativity. She's on my must watch list every time she posts, even if I'm not completely into the video topic of which she has many!

[@angellaramie9344]

I would love to see Hannah sell pieces again :) with her eye for beautiful things I know I would love her work

[@amandaness6]

Thank you so much for this. I've been watching for months now and truly value the info you share, but this video may be life-changing for me. Hearing Hannah discuss her experience vs. addiction has made me realize I may have a real and true problem.

[@AmeliaDesign]

Oh my gosh this came at the perfect moment for me. Was feeling a lot of shame about settlement money I spent on food take out and Ubers. A friend brought it up and I went right back to that time of spending because I had “cushion” and then poof $75K was gone in 5 years. The guilt is overwhelming sometimes and that was 5 years ago. Just racked up credit card debt again this year. It’s all going towards takeout. I spent an average of $50 a day last month on takeout food. I’m powerless and need to get back into Debtor’s Anonymous and listen to your KZbin videos. I also understand the beautiful things. The lie of, if I buy that one decor item or one dress, I’ll feel happy. It’s a dark cycle. Thank you for the encouragement and admitting how hard it is to take a look at our money sometimes.

[@KO.42]

I just realized I’ve had an unintentional no-shopping year. I haven’t bought new clothes since I went on vacation in May 2021. I just don’t feel like buying things I don’t need anymore.

[@pamwishbow8826]

Absolutely perfect collab! Hannah's channel helped me remember how I enjoy and would like to spend my money on beautiful things and why I do it.

[@Michelle-ns2cu]

Awesome episode - lots of vulnerable confessions here. Side note - I love the bit where you guys talk about how the creative/artist community have a tendency to overspend on their particular craft without tending to more adult responsibilities (assumingly - however I am sure we know a lot of peers who fit into the frivolous spending habits! ;). I am in the cosplay community and feel this sort of pressure. The pressure more specifically to create costumes all the time, be relevant, and spend spend spend. If opportunity permits, I would love an episode on how artist survive in this environment (financially) without feeling like they are stunting their artistic passions. I for one decided to go to graduate school and will become a librarian in a few months. I feel that that may be my middle ground to earn enough to pay for my adult bills, save, while still having the mental space and money to pursue the artistic crafts that I want. I just hope it is the right decision. I too, like Hannah want to live my most artistic life - but it is hard to figure out the best balance... I come from a lower income home and still learning to balance my passions while also being realistic to my situation and money habits. Again - great episode!

[@moss.miller]

have you heard the idea of "makers spaces"? it's a business model where a building has all the tools and supplies (non-consumables), and patrons are able to use them and the offices if they spend a monthly fee. You still buy materials, but it helps with dabbling so you aren't buying equipment you don't need. I dont know if that helps! I also like to trade leftover supplies 😮 I don't have large-scale need

[@moss.miller]

they exist in some areas, not so much others... like kiln sharing

[@abetterlivedlife]

I did a No Buy year before the pandemic. It really does rewire your brain and change your relationship with spending. Highly recommend to everyone!

[@LadyOrpheus]

The book Hannah mentioned - Hacking of the american mind - is by Robert Lustig! He has a great couple of books on sugar as well

[@soleilmartine]

Love this collab! Hannah says everything I have felt about my past overspending and the reasons why. So thoughtful, articulate, and calming to listen to.

[@cynthiaswe1230]

This guest is so meandering. I wanna know about no-buy year but she only went in on that topic near the end of the video. I can sense Chelsea's impatience. And her avoidance to consider the addiction issue lol.

[@testing1-2three]

Thank you for sharing that it took about 6 months of withdrawal. Good to know.

[@mashantha]

Hannah is amazing! I’ve been watching and rewatching her videos. Learning about her experience has really pushed me to re-evaluate my relationship with consumerism, my so called “needs” for the next beauty release and I find that a lot of what she says can be applied to all sorts of shopping. Thank you so so so much @hannah for sharing your experiences on YT so candidly. I never knew sharing could be so powerful; and you are one of the many reasons that pushed me to start my YT channel this year. Lots of ♥️

[@MMEarlene]

I knew for so long that i shop when im sad, now im feel lonely that it makes me sad, but when i declutter i was in shock with all the stuff that i have n never use in my life, all the money that i have thrown in my life. Im going to no buy year on 2024. Thank you for helping me be a better person

[@moonlit.michelle]

I love this so much! I have followed Hannah for years now and could listen to her talk about anything because she's so eloquent and her voice is so soothing, but I love hearing her talk about the way she thinks about things in addition to the things themselves.

[@anjeesorge]

Whoa! I’ve been watching both of your channels for YEARS. How great to see you both together!

[@emmaliz5484]

I would love a recurring podcast or segment with the two of you together

[@notafangirl]

*pterodactyl screech of pure joy* SO happy and excited to see Hannah on this channel! 💖

[@jalahscomfycouch]

I can relate to the spending on expensive, beautiful items being tethered to one's identity. I feel like I am constantly running from how I used to look and be (dressing plain and being shy and unconfident) to who I am now (a little more confident), that I end up spending myself into a hole to be "that girl" and look on the outside as how I feel about myself on the inside. This isn't necessarily always a bad thing...but constantly spending outside my means (which I do a lot) can get me into more trouble than it is worth. Thank y'all for this interview, very enlightening!🙏🏾

[@itzysmiles]

I loved EVERYTHING about this episode. Please bring her back and/or have more videos about overspending and shopping addiction! It’s my #1 vice and I found this so profoundly insightful - I’m dying for more.

[@Skinslads]

Hannah's whole KZbin channel is basically about that, and she has made a whole series on her no-buy year a few years ago. I'm sure you would thoroughly enjoy a lot of her videos! :)

[@cayleejane7642]

OMG I have been watching Hannah for years now! SO HAPPY YOU HAD HER ON THE SHOW ✨✨✨ she’s an absolute gem and one of my favs!

[@localola7003]

I can relate so much to her feelings and thoughts she expressed when she analyzed what makes her shop cause it's the exact same for me. I am 29 filed bankruptcy at 24 and I am going through it again at 29. I have so much clothes and shoes most still have the tags yet I still say I need them. I shop the majority of my money and rather shop than pay my bill realistically. When I see something I have to have it, my paycheck is spent before I even get it. I imagine where i'm gonna wear it and how and who will see me and that fantasy never even happens nor does that item make me any less beautiful than the dress I wore once and has been sitting for years. I associate my happiness with looking nice when I already have things that make me look nice. I hold myself back from those experiences to even wear it by spending all of my money on the things with nothing left and dodging creditors. I want to cry hearing this podcast episode cause it gives me hope my habits and life can change too.

[@Norjunma1]

Love everything about this discussion! For those interested, the author of the book Hannah mentions, “The Hacking of the American Mind,” is noted endocrinologist Dr. Robert Lustig. He actually *is* the sugar guy, known for his famous 2009 lecture, “Sugar: The Bitter Truth.”

[@tessconrad2308]

This is such a great episode! Also, please do a video on the weird relationship with money that exists in these arts spaces - it also applies to the non-profit sector too (a sector that I work in). As someone who grew up in poverty, it's frustrating to deal with my coworkers and superiors who argue that money shouldn't matter, while they have wealth in their family to draw from. I was in arts spaces before non-profit spaces as a teen and in my early 20s, and I totally bought into the rhetoric. When I got older and developed more perspective, I realized that everyone in those spaces trying to "live the artist life" and "not worry about money" came from wealthy families. I wish I heard this conversation 10 years ago so I could've came to the realization sooner. I get paid more in the non-profit sector because I'm in a high-demand field, but I'm thinking of making a switch to the for-profit world for the sake of my and my family's financial security.

[@michellejarvis7878]

Artists create beauty, they deserve to be valued. Everyone deserves to NOT have to worry about money, you don't owe the world your creativity. If they need what you do, you should be fairly paid.

[@jenniferro10]

I stood up when I read this. I have some very deep feelings about the cognitive dissonance of doing the work of repairing the world, while directly putting yourself in harm's way... The relationship between privilege and nonprofit work... All of it.

[@cynthiahoz3948]

The rawness of this conversation is so touching. Thank you Chelsea and HLP❤️

[@cynthiasuzanne]

Appreciating how the organic nature of the conversation revealed so much psychology around money, image, and shame/embarrassment that can underlie or fuel the overspending process. Thank you -