Oprah Debt Diet Show, Part II

[Alicnwondrln]

these people are crazy
i have never seen such craziness

 

[Nolcrest]

I was soooo disgusted with Lisa Bradley. She has more serious problems than debt. That family isn't a typical financially needy family. She has created all her problems and she is not really willing to pull her family out of it. She needs Dr Phil's advice more than she needs Oprah's advice.

And why is her husband so passive? I do not believe for one minute that they will be a success story. It is very entertaining to watch though!

 

[DVC Sadie]

Did anyone else notice that during the "DEBT DIET" that they ran upcoming preview of a Marc Jacobs dresses and Jimmy Choo shoes. I found that rather tactless of the producers.

 

[ceecee]

I am very cross. I missed the first one, but planned my day around watching this one. Then I turn on the T.V. and the Olympics was on. I called the station and they informed me that "Oprah" has been on at 3 pm all week, there were lots of ads....I DON'T watch T.V. unless there is something specific I want to see. This week it was "Survivor" and this "Oprah". Not to be unpatriotic but I don't watch them since they switched to every two years.

Happen to me too. I never have the TV on during the day. I asked someone when Oprah was on, so I turned it at 4:00 and it was the Olympics!

 

[MrsNick]

Honestly, I don't know how it is that apparently so many people have a problem and it remains unnamed. There are twelve step programs for anything and everything, but there is not one for the addiction to spending money.

A lot of times the addiction is all wrapped up in "I deserve" or "My kids deserve" or "My family deserves."

What I don't understand is why people think that what they deserve = what they can actually afford. You certainly may deserve something, but that doesn't mean you have the funds to pay for it.

Unfortunately, we as Americans have been brainwashed into having that sense of "entitlement."

I also don't understand why we don't have a program called "Spenders Anonymous." I'm not being funny. I really believe that people need help and that they need a support group. I don't see the addiction to spending to be different than addictions to food, alcohol or drugs. In most cases across addictions, people are trying to make up for a void, or from whatever is missing or painful in their lives. Other addictions have support groups because most people can't kick addictions without help from peers. Why should people with spending problems or financial problems have to feel so alone?

But, as the Bradleys said, now that they have admitted to financial troubles, they are personas non gratas. Money trouble is the last big social taboo we have in this country. And, until we as a society can get over it, then individuals will continue to have difficulty getting real about money.

We live in a society where so much is acceptable, but admitting to having financial trouble results in being treated like a leper.

Okay, off my soapbox now.

 

[HLAuburn]

This is sort of a stupid question, but at least related to the topic....

Can someone explain to me how you "exchange a piano for a less expensive one" and "return a big screen TV"? Two great moves, in my opinion, but I'm seriously wondering how that works.

And is it just me or did that show make you feel "normal"?! Those people were SO out of control that it made me feel not-so-bad about by JCPenney $60 "shopping spree" yesterday!!

 

[EthansMom]

Can someone explain to me how you "exchange a piano for a less expensive one" and "return a big screen TV"? Two great moves, in my opinion, but I'm seriously wondering how that works.

Well, the piano was being leased, so I'm assuming they were able to apply the payments toward a piano with lower lease payments.

And the t.v. was probably a "rent-to-own" that they returned or else financed through the store. I'm assuming that it was "rent-to-own" since returning a t.v. that was financed throught the store would have the same effect as if it was repossessed. Although, with so many accounts already in collection, having a repossession may not do much worse to their credit (it's already in the dumper).

They also got rid of one of the cars and I'm assuming that they just returned it to the finance company.

 

[zippeedee]

Honestly, I don't know how it is that apparently so many people have a problem and it remains unnamed. There are twelve step programs for anything and everything, but there is not one for the addiction to spending money.


There is a 12 step program called Debtor's Anonymous. I used to volunteer at a kids creativity program that was held at a church that also hosted these meetings. They were the largest group of the many that met there.
I was stunned by the huge number of people that would pour out of that room. The scarier thing is how many more people need the help and don't get it.
I thought Mrs. Bradley's comment at the beginning about her husband "being the man and controlling her" spoke volumes.

 

[disykat]

I can't believe the family has pretty much snubbed them, though. She said it would have gone easier if she'd said they were swingers & not debtors!

Jean

I can believe it. I would have a hard time not snubbing her. IMO she is an outright thief (bills she hadn't opened in 3 years?). "Buying" things with no intention of paying them is not the same as getting a little behind on the bills.

 

[bdb7607]

It really highlights the point about just how easy it is to obtain credit. I mean, to be in more consumer debt than you earn per year....and still obtaining it with ease.....just amazing. Sad, pathetic and amazing.

That is so true - the banks / credit card companies are playing into their hands, allowing more and more debt to pile up - with a very good chance of not recovering it, makes you wonder who the heck is in control of those credit decisions...

A denial of credit would help wake up some families

 

[disneymom3]

I just can't even comprehend living my life that way. I don't understand how people just spend money knowing full way that they have no way to pay the bill. What do they think is going to happen....the sky will open up and money will fall out?

Well, that is what I am waiting for. Isn't everyone???

I have not watched the show as I keep forgetting to set up the DVR and I don't watch Oprah when my kids are around. This thread though is interesting and I am enjoying reading everyone's takes on this. I can tell though that I would def have to record it because these people sound so stupid, I would have to skip through them sometimes.

DVCgirl, I think that might need to be your new tag....

 

[decaff38]

Does anyone else think it is funny that the have a BMW in the driveway and thr financial person didn't even mention it? They showed 2 trucks (one older maybe 90 and the other a redo custom type) They did not mention the 5th car. Do she really think that her kids are not paying for her denial already!! I just said no to my daughter who wanted a new snowboard. It hurts to say no but I will help her buy one with the money we get after we sell the 2 she already has. I love her but I think she will learn more by a little delayed gratification and a little budgeting. As far as the hair thing goes, when you spend that much on your hair, it has nothing to do with the hair, it has to do with the social event of getting it done. Find a Beauty School if it really is about the hair. The first family is doomed and the hubby can't really get away for this because he is considered 1/2 responsible in the eyes of the creditors. Not opening collection reports is insane. Not doing anything to help yourself is insane. Grow UP!!!!!

 

[meloneyb21]

I just caught today's installment of the show and never saw the first one. I think Lisa Bradley's family snubbed her because she seems like one of those people who puts on a front like she can afford everything but she really can't, and probably acted that way towards her family...I have an aunt like that...... Having your hair done once every week is crazy and definitely NOT a priority. I would make sure my mortgage is being paid and basic neccesities are being taken care of before I would DARE care about how I look......and buying a new outfit for her child for church?!?! Who are they trying to impress? GOD? My grandmother always told me that it says in the bible to "Come As You Are" so Lisa is just using church as an excuse to shop. I'm surprised her husband hasn't left her yet. She's outrageous, and the Bradley's actually are in debt $170,000 and they make $102,000 a year......I hope Oprah doesn't help them either, they need to work this out the right way on their own with their financial advisors.

 

[ElizaB39]

Well, regarding the cars, they did agree to get rid of two and save 530 in monthly payments. I just assumed that at least one of the others were paid off, one of the trucks was OLD.

I just loved how she said that her kids weren't going to suffer because of the mess she had gotten them into (regarding the piano). She is clueless, they are going to suffer suffer suffer if she doesn't get her act together.

Unbelievable.

My DD asked me if she thought I could do what they were doing on TV. I said of course, but we didn't need to because we are responsible with our money and etc. Good jumping off point for a discussion of money.

Also regarding the new dress for church. What, did they just start going to church? How can the child have ONE dress if they were regular attenders? ANd who cares if it is a dress versus nice pants and etc. I like how her DH called her out about it, but then she called him tattletale etc. She acts like a child.

 

[MrsPete]

I just loved how she said that her kids weren't going to suffer because of the mess she had gotten them into (regarding the piano). She is clueless, they are going to suffer suffer suffer if she doesn't get her act together.

I didn't see the show, but I don't think kids SUFFER because they don't have new clothes, their own TVs, the latest this and that . . . but I do think kids suffer if they live in a house where the parents are always concerned about money.

 

[dvcgirl]

Well, that is what I am waiting for. Isn't everyone???

I have not watched the show as I keep forgetting to set up the DVR and I don't watch Oprah when my kids are around. This thread though is interesting and I am enjoying reading everyone's takes on this. I can tell though that I would def have to record it because these people sound so stupid, I would have to skip through them sometimes.

DVCgirl, I think that might need to be your new tag....

lol! Well, I think that Oprah should hire me...and let me live with Lisa Bradley for a week. If she thinks Jean Chatsky is tough....she'd be praying for Jean to come back after she met me .

Seriously, Jean Chatsky is doomed to fail in her assignment with the Bradleys.

 

[MrsNick]

Honestly, I don't know how it is that apparently so many people have a problem and it remains unnamed. There are twelve step programs for anything and everything, but there is not one for the addiction to spending money.


There is a 12 step program called Debtor's Anonymous. I used to volunteer at a kids creativity program that was held at a church that also hosted these meetings. They were the largest group of the many that met there.
I was stunned by the huge number of people that would pour out of that room. The scarier thing is how many more people need the help and don't get it.
I thought Mrs. Bradley's comment at the beginning about her husband "being the man and controlling her" spoke volumes.

I stand corrected. I had never heard of this group. Too bad it isn't more well known (or maybe I'm just out of touch?). Interesting that this was the largest group of the meetings there. You're right that it's scary how many people attended, and how many more probably should have (but didn't). That's part of the problem - people not admitting they have a problem and need help, or not knowing where to get help. But, maybe what Oprah said was right - that 70% of Americans live check to check. If so, then really, Debtor's Anon should have a chapter in every American county.

 

[dvcgirl]

Does anyone else think it is funny that the have a BMW in the driveway and thr financial person didn't even mention it? They showed 2 trucks (one older maybe 90 and the other a redo custom type) They did not mention the 5th car. Do she really think that her kids are not paying for her denial already!! I just said no to my daughter who wanted a new snowboard. It hurts to say no but I will help her buy one with the money we get after we sell the 2 she already has. I love her but I think she will learn more by a little delayed gratification and a little budgeting. As far as the hair thing goes, when you spend that much on your hair, it has nothing to do with the hair, it has to do with the social event of getting it done. Find a Beauty School if it really is about the hair. The first family is doomed and the hubby can't really get away for this because he is considered 1/2 responsible in the eyes of the creditors. Not opening collection reports is insane. Not doing anything to help yourself is insane. Grow UP!!!!!

All of it was insane, but the hair thing....that's just the kicker. Spending 9% of your net income on your HAIR? I mean, seriously, is it so difficult to understand that is just postively and absolutely ridiculous. That woman, who makes far less than us I'll add, spends more money on her *HAIR* then we do on our property taxes. And Oprah, listen....I get it, African American women have certain hair needs....got it....however....you still need to be able to afford it!

I just don't see, with the attitude that Lisa Bradley had, how they'll ever actually pay down all of that debt. Sorry, trading one leased piano in for another isn't going to cut it. Not giving up the $7,500 hair addiction is a sign that will not change. They would need to sell the house, rent for awhile, get rid of the Beamer, sell everything that isn't bolted down on Ebay, acquaint themselves with a place called Walmart and Lisa Bradley needs to shave her head..........and it's obvious that will never happen.

She mentioned in the first show that "Looking the Part" is important to her. I wonder if she can even understand how incredibly shallow that sounds. And if "Looking the Part" was so important to her, you'd have to think that she'll suffer a total breakdown now that the fascade is gone.....

 

[sk!mom]

DH and I watched this together tonight. He made the observation that they must have agreed to the show thinking that Oprah would bail them out because they clearly are not serious about a "debt diet". Both families were instantly cheating. I would be suffocating under that debt and certainly not shopping.

I was frustrated with Mr. Bradley. While I realize that he is powerless to do anything except divorce his overspending wife, it was just as much his responsibility to open those bills.

 

[Kay7979]

The part that struck me most was the conservation in the beauty shop when Mrs. Bradley was whining about how much she had "compromised" and how much she was giving up. If I were the debt counselor, the first thing I would do is sit these people down and give them a big-time reality check. From day one they couldn't afford a house that expensive, 5 vehicles, all those TVs and other gizmos, and they had no business buying it. They should stop looking at the situation as "aren't we being good sports giving up some of our luxuries," and start thinking in terms that they should never have owned half that stuff to start with. The illusion that they could afford these items was a fraud. So, the stuff that isn't being paid for is no more "theirs" than stollen merchandise, and of course they have no right to keep it. Until the counsellor changes their viewpoint from "we're giving up OUR stuff" to "we giving back things we had no business buying" she is completely wasting her time.