𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Cat Hoth and Anne Landers from Junior Achievement of Arizona to explore Money in Motion, a mobile financial-literacy simulation built specifically for rural and tribal communities. This hands-on experience brings budgeting, critical thinking, and real-world decision-making directly to students—from 3rd grade all the way through high school.
Cat and Anne detail how the simulation travels to even the most remote communities to deliver an immersive lesson on managing money, navigating wants vs. needs, planning for adulthood, and understanding future careers. They also share stories of student “aha!” moments, community partnerships, volunteer involvement, workforce implications, and what they hope the long-term impact will be for rural learners.
This episode is a rich look at how one mobile program is sparking real conversations around money, opportunity, and the “rural advantage” of tight-knit communities rallying behind their schools.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬:
00:00 Introduction to Financial Literacy for Rural Families
02:13 Meet the Experts: Kat and Ann's Journey with Junior Achievement
04:59 The Impact of Hands-On Financial Education
10:28 A Day in the Life: Money in Motion Simulation
18:03 Adapting Financial Literacy for Different Age Groups
26:53 Impact of Financial Literacy Programs on Schools
27:29 Heartwarming Feedback from Schools and Families
29:31 Building on a Strong Foundation
30:44 Long-term Benefits and Strategic Partnerships
33:41 Challenges of Serving Rural and Tribal Communities
39:22 Community Engagement and Volunteer Impact
43:09 Connecting Financial Literacy to Workforce Development
46:15 How to Bring Financial Literacy Programs to Your School
51:01 The Rural Advantage and Final Thoughts
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
This episode highlights how immersive, real-world financial literacy can transform the way rural and tribal students understand their futures. Through JA’s Money in Motion, kids practice budgeting, evaluating needs vs. wants, planning for families, and envisioning career paths—all within their own school gym.
Cat and Anne remind us that rural communities have a unique advantage: deep relationships, strong community bonds, and the agility to innovate quickly. When these strengths meet real-world learning experiences, powerful things happen for students.
Whether you’re a rural educator, school leader, or community partner, this conversation offers inspiration and practical insight into bringing relevant, meaningful financial education to your students.