A classroom conversation between a student and Assistant Professor of Economics Tamara Cummings helped spark an idea that would grow into a student-led podcast exploring economics through everyday life and social media trends.
The discussion began when a student suggested that economic conversations should extend beyond the classroom and into daily campus life. The idea resonated with Cummings as she considered ways to make economic concepts more accessible to students.
The concept took shape when another student introduced the TikTok trend known as “girl math,” a viral phrase used to humorously justify spending decisions. Examples include the idea that returning a $40 item and buying a $50 item results in only $10 spent, or that small cash purchases do not “count” financially. While lighthearted, the trend also reflects how people perceive value and make financial decisions.
From those discussions, the “Debunking Girl Math” podcast was created.
The student-led podcast uses social media trends and everyday scenarios to explore economic concepts. Episodes feature student co-hosts and faculty discussing topics such as consumer spending behavior, discount pricing, credit use, and the cost of medical debt for young adults.
Across eight episodes, the podcast has featured multiple student co-hosts alongside Cummings and associate economics faculty member Shirley Ayangbah. Conversations focus on connecting lived experience with economic theory.
The podcast is produced through the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Norco College, funded by the RCCD Foundation, and developed in partnership with the Umoja Program. Behind the scenes, students support production, audio editing, social media, photography, and marketing.
Organizers are also exploring the development of a student organization, GDP (Growth, Debate, and Prosper), aimed at expanding interdisciplinary engagement with economics. A second season of the podcast is under consideration, pending funding.
Episodes of Debunking Girl Math are available on the Norco College YouTube channel. Updates are posted on Instagram at @debunkinggirlmathpod.