Common Cents

Common Cents

Common Cents

joy hambrick
“Economics doesn’t have to be complicated — it’s just Common Cents! When money’s on the line, people tend to act in surprisingly predictable ways.”
joy hambrick
“Economics doesn’t have to be complicated — it’s just Common Cents! When money’s on the line, people tend to act in surprisingly predictable ways.”
Welcome to common cents
Economics explained—with a little heart and a lot of real talk.
Common Cents is an economics podcast and blog designed to make the complex world of economics feel a little more simple, relevant, and real.
As a longtime professor and dean with over 30 years of experience, Joy Hambrick explores the economic forces shaping our daily lives—from inflation and interest rates to the job market, consumer behavior, public policy, and beyond.
Here, we cut through the jargon. Whether you’re a student, business leader, policymaker, or a curious thinker, this is a space where economics meets everyday life—and makes sense.
With each segment, real-world topics are broken down with practical insight and just the right dash of humor. The goal? To help you not only understand economics, but also see its power to explain the world around you.
A Little About Joy
Joy is a proud native Georgian, lifelong educator, and enthusiastic student of the world. With over 30 years of experience teaching economics in higher education, she currently serves as Dean of the School of Business and Professional Studies at Georgia Highlands College. She holds a BBA in Economics and Finance from Kennesaw State University and a Master of Science in Econometrics from Georgia State University.
Before entering academia, she worked in the corporate world and consulted in various sectors, which continues to shape her practical, real-world approach to economic issues. Her greatest passion is helping others see the relevance and excitement of economics in their everyday lives.
Beyond the classroom and campus, she’s a married empty nester with two incredible daughters, a wonderful son-in-law, three beloved grand-dogs (Ralph, Loki, and Elphie), and her own Bichon puppy, Leo. She’s been married for 35 years and is a proud Francophile, half-marathoner (including one in France), football fan, fashion enthusiast, and fluent speaker of movie quotes. She loves books, travel, organizing closets, and the joy of crafting the perfect outfit.
Through the Common Cents podcast and blog, she aims to share insights that connect academic economics to real-world experiences, with clarity and heart.