Reality is, talking about money doesn’t always make for riveting content. But Stranger Things, Euphoria, and Squid Game? Edge-of-your-seat drama. Behind the Demogorgons and dystopias, these shows sneak in some surprisingly solid financial hacks.

We’re diving into the plot twists and survival games to uncover what your favorite binge-worthy series can teach you about emergency funds, budgets, and even salary negotiation. No lectures, just TV-fueled wisdom!

Because financial advice sounds better coming from Eleven, Rue, or Gi-hun…sort of.

Stranger Things : Keep a Safety Net for When Things Turn Upside Down

Between shadow monsters and disappearing friends, Hawkins is always a disaster waiting to happen. You know what would’ve helped? Some emergency planning—maybe not a slingshot, but definitely an emergency fund.

Money Hack: Life gets weird. Unexpected medical bills, job loss, car repairs, it's not all telekinesis and bike rides. Build an emergency fund that covers at least three to six months of expenses. Start small, even dedicating $20 a paycheck to your Langley Savings Account adds up pretty fast!

Squid Game : Desperation and Debt Are a Dangerous Combo

Hundreds of people joined a deadly game show because of crushing debt. Dramatic? Yes. Relatable? Sadly, also yes. Squid Game is a wild metaphor for what happens when people don’t have access to financial education, savings, or fair lending options.

Money Hack: Don’t let debt run your life. Be proactive: avoid predatory lending, create a repayment plan, and explore consolidation options. Langley offer’s Financial Advising to help you tackle debt without playing red light, green light.

Severance : Know What You’re Working for and What It’s Costing You

Imagine clocking into work and forgetting everything about your life outside the office. Sounds…dark. Severance gets deep about work-life balance and the real cost of trading your time for a paycheck.

Money Hack: Your job should fund your life, not consume it. Make sure your salary supports your goals and your mental health. Learn to budget, invest, and prioritize your financial future so you’re not stuck in a cycle you can’t escape.

The Bear : Budgeting Is the Secret Ingredient

Carmy is a culinary genius, but even chefs need their finances in order. The Bear shows the chaos of running a small business without financial structure, and how quickly things can go south without a budget.

Money Hack: Whether you’re running a restaurant or managing your paycheck, budgeting matters. Track your income, cut unnecessary spending, and reinvest in what brings long-term growth. Langley’s Free Budgeting Tools make it easy—no kitchen meltdowns required.

Euphoria : Don’t Let Emotional Spending Ruin Your Finances

Between heartbreak, addiction, and impulse decisions, Euphoria doesn’t exactly scream “fiscally responsible.” But it’s a masterclass in how emotions influence money habits.

Money Hack: Money and mental health are connected. Track emotional spending triggers and build healthy financial habits. Not every problem can be resolved with retail therapy!

And…SCENE!

TV shows are meant to entertain, but the best ones leave you thinking—and maybe even rethinking your budget. Whether you’re trying to pay off student loans, save for your first car, or plan for the unexpected, there’s a financial takeaway in every story.

So keep streaming, just don’t forget to also check your Langley Digital Banking App. Your financial future might not come with a cliffhanger—but that’s kind of the point.