Gold Digging or Self-Preservation?

In this episode of Lanterns in the Dark, Angelo Hopson is joined by special guest James Garrett—social worker, barbershop manager, and community voice—for a candid conversation about one of the most debated questions in modern dating: Is it gold digging, or is it self-preservation?Together, they unpack the financial realities shaping today’s relationships, the expectations placed on men and women, and how economic pressures influence dating choices. The conversation explores whether seeking financial stability in a partner is exploitation—or simply a rational response to a challenging world.Drawing from lived experience, cultural observations, and James’s background in psychology and social work, this episode challenges common stereotypes and examines the role of responsibility, contribution, and honesty in building modern relationships.