Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – October 05, 2026 -- Debt.com has announced the winners of its fourth annual FinTalk Awards, recognizing creators and institutions who use social media to teach budgeting and debt management to a national audience.
Space Coast Credit Union wins Best Credit Union Education
The Florida-based credit union earned the honor for pairing member stories with its animated "Watchdog" mascot to teach financial security online. Joelle Hahn, senior vice president of marketing at Space Coast Credit Union, said social media lets the organization deliver guidance that is "accessible, engaging, and useful in everyday life."
Emily Egashira takes Financial Creator of the Year
The Washington-based creator, known online as @heyfrienditsem, was recognized for sharing daily money-saving tips and her personal financial journey with followers.
Jim Wang wins Best Short-Form Content
Wang, a Carnegie Mellon and Johns Hopkins graduate and founder of Best Wallet Hacks, was honored for concise videos covering debt payoff and spending strategies. "Creating content can sometimes feel like a solitary activity but knowing that it means so much to the people who watch makes it all worth it," Wang said.
Leila Kartforosh wins Best Long-Form Content
A microbiologist and founder of Debt Over It, Kartforosh built her platform after paying off $82,000 in student, credit card, and auto debt. She now produces long-form educational content aimed at helping others manage their finances.
Don Silvestri, President of Debt.com, said the awards highlight creators proving that social media can be a credible place to learn about saving and budgeting. This year's winners span Florida, Georgia, Maryland, and Washington State.