She Strengthens

From MTV to Money Mentor: SuChin Pak’s Journey to Financial Freedom

As a teenager, I spent hours watching SuChin Pak on MTV, mesmerized by her charismatic presence and engaging storytelling. But behind the scenes, SuChin was learning valuable lessons about money, identity, and class that would shape her life and career.

The Power of Vulnerability

SuChin has partnered with Umpqua Bank to co-host the money podcast Open Account, where she dives into honest conversations about money with her guests. This refreshing approach to talking about finance is rooted in vulnerability, humor, and imperfect human stories. SuChin believes that getting to the heart of people’s stories is what excites her, and there’s nothing more personal than our relationship with money.

A Childhood Shaped by Money

SuChin’s first memories of money date back to when she was 5 years old, moving to the U.S. from Korea with her family. Her parents’ struggles to make ends meet instilled in her a sense of financial responsibility from a young age. She recalls losing her first $20 bill at the age of 7, a devastating experience that taught her the value of money.

Finding Professional Success

SuChin didn’t feel financially secure until she took a break from her MTV career to focus on her personal life. This pause allowed her to recharge and gain a new perspective on her profession. She eventually felt like she’d “made it” when she landed a $70,000 TV contract, but this confidence didn’t immediately translate to her financial life.

Balancing Financial Fears and Dreams

SuChin admits to being a good saver but struggles with feeling secure about her finances. She’s had to unlearn the money lessons she learned from her parents, which emphasized stress and uncertainty. Her daily work involves finding a balance between security and flexibility, allowing for generous moments and spontaneous joy.

The Importance of Open Conversations

Despite being surrounded by high-achieving women, SuChin finds that money is rarely discussed intimately. She believes that sharing financial struggles and fears with others can be incredibly liberating. Her interview with SNL writer Paula Pell is a prime example of how setting your worth and sticking to it can lead to success.

Advice for 20-Something Women

SuChin’s advice to young women seeking financial stability is to use credit cards responsibly, prioritize saving, and take care of their credit scores. She also stresses the importance of finding someone to open up to about financial struggles and dreams. When it comes to pursuing a seemingly out-of-reach career, SuChin encourages women to focus on taking small steps towards their goals, surrounding themselves with opportunities and inspiration.

Join the Conversation

To continue the conversation about money, class, and identity, check out the Open Account podcast and madetogrow.com. By sharing our financial struggles and fears, we can realize that they’re probably not as scary as we think – and that the first step to getting better is often right in front of us.