179: Valuing Equitable Dynamics as the Breadwinner of Your Household with Maegan Megginson

Author: Linzy Bonham
Published: Tue 02 Sep 2025
Episode Link: https://moneynutsandbolts.com/valuing-equitable-dynamics-with-maegan-megginson/

It's becoming increasingly common for me to work with therapy practice owners who are the primary breadwinner and/or a female in a hetero relationship. While this shift in dynamics is not only familiar to be, and a positive step towards gender equality, it can also bring its own set of challenges and complexities.

Relationships are challenging anyway, but when you add the layer of one person earning the Lionshare of the household income, honest and open communication about responsibilities, expectations, and goals between both partners becomes even more important.

Another breadwinning therapist, Maegan Megginson, joins me today to help discuss being the female breadwinner and provide an additional behind-the-scenes perspective on how a couple might navigate a relationship where partners contribute differently.

Navigating Roles & Responsibilities in a Relationship Where One Person Earns More

(00:03:15) Navigating Unequal Financial Responsibilities in Relationships

(00:17:08) Imbalanced Financial Contributions in Romantic Partnerships

(00:19:49) Recognizing the Richness of Non-Monetary Contributions

(00:30:26) Imbalance in Relationship Responsibilities: Causes and Solutions

(00:41:01) Equitable Dynamics in Breadwinning Relationships

(00:41:01) Navigating Relationship Dynamics as Breadwinner

(00:41:39) Financial Equity and Communication in Relationships

(00:41:39) Navigating Financial Management as the Primary Earner

Recognizing Non-Monetary Contributions in Relationships

Acknowledging both financial and non-financial contributions helps to create a sense of equity and balance in the relationship. It reinforces the idea that each partner's role is valued and important, regardless of who earns more money.

Even if one partner is the main breadwinner, it's crucial to share responsibilities in other aspects of the relationship, such as household chores, childcare, and decision-making. This helps to create a sense of equality and balance in the partnership.

(00:31:02) "I think when two people have explicitly negotiated, here's who's going to make the money, and here's what the other person's going to be doing. That's healthy, right? That's strong. That's solid." - Maegan Megginson

Guiding Your Relationship to Feel More Equitable:

Begin having conversations with your partner about financial AND non-financial, much appreciated contributions to the relationship aiming for both partners to feel valued, heard, and respected for their contributions.
If you find yourself shouldering the emotional and/or financial burden, acknowledge this imbalance and address it with your partner. Avoid staying in a situation that is draining you.
If you’ve unexpectedly become the breadwinner, view it as an opportunity to learn new financial skills. Take the initiative to educate yourself on managing money effectively for your household.
Remember that financial contributions are just one aspect of the relationship. Acknowledge and appreciate all forms of contributions, including non-monetary ones that support the healthy function of your household.

Interested in working with Linzy?

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Get to Know Maegan Megginson:

Maegan Megginson is an accomplished entrepreneur and the host of the "Deeply Rested Podcast," where she explores the intersection of personal values and professional life. With firsthand experience as a female breadwinner in a hetero relationship, she offers unique insights into the challenges and dynamics faced by women in non-traditional gender roles. Her work is characterized by a deep compassion for the pressures and responsibilities that accompany the role of a family breadwinner. Through her platform at deeplyrested.com, Maegan provides resources and support for those navigating similar paths, advocating for alignment between personal desires and professional commitments.

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