Academics and Their Money
Ever feel like you’ve got a PhD in your field but only a 101-level understanding of your finances? Welcome to Academics and Their Money, the podcast where we make money talk as smart—and as entertaining—as you are. Because let’s be honest: knowledge is powerful, but a well-earned paycheck doesn’t hurt either. Whether you’re a fresh PhD navigating that first real paycheck, a tenured professor pondering what’s next, or a former academic with some ‘unique’ insights—this show dives into making your intellect work for you, tackling the financial quirks of academic life, and uncovering the untold money stories behind the ivory tower.
If you’re a fan of Planet Money, Freakonomics Radio, or HerMoney with Jean Chatzky, you’ll feel right at home here. But fair warning: this isn’t another boring money podcast. We keep it real, relatable, and just a bit irreverent to make finance feel fresh. Let’s get smarter about money—and wealthier—together!
Academics and Their Money
Gratitude & the Side-Eye: Nicole Pulliam on Making Peace—and Money—Beyond Academia
In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Academics and Their Money, we’re joined by Nicole Pulliam—tenured professor, certified coach, and unapologetic truth-teller—as she shares her unexpected journey through academia, the power of belief, and the real talk no one gives you about money in higher ed.
Nicole opens up about what it felt like to pursue a PhD she never imagined for herself, the joy and constraints of life as a professor, and why her gratitude for the academic world now comes with a healthy dose of skepticism. She discusses the “golden handcuffs” of tenure, the dismal financial rewards tied to academic promotions, and the quiet pressure many faculty feel to stay in roles that no longer serve them.
We also explore her entrepreneurial pivot into coaching—what led her there, how she built her business on the side, and why monetizing your skills outside of the academy isn't just possible, it's necessary. Nicole shares insights into supporting women and faculty of color navigating predominantly white institutions, and how building community and expanding out, not just up, has transformed her professional life.
Plus, we wrap with a fun money moment—what she’s most proud of spending money on (spoiler: it’s for her son), and her most regretful expense (yep, it involves DoorDash).
If you've ever felt stuck between gratitude and wanting more, this conversation will speak directly to you.
💼 Connect with Nicole Pulliam and learn more about her coaching work:
Website: www.realandworthyllc.com
Instagram: @realandworthyllc | @nicolepulliamphd
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolepulliamphd
If you’ve got questions, suggestions for future topics, or just want to say ‘hello,’ you can reach us at https://attainablewealthfp.com/schedule-a-call/.
Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.