Savannah James is at the center of an online debate about friendship, money and traveling with people in different tax brackets.
James recently discussed the topic alongside her longtime friend and business partner, April McDaniel. The two appeared on Boardroom’s “Mental Wealth” podcast on Sept. 28.
During the conversation, McDaniel revealed they do not always fly in the same cabin when traveling together. Despite some viral posts describing her seat as coach, McDaniel said she flies business class.
James, meanwhile, may purchase a first-class ticket. The arrangement quickly sparked criticism online. Some questioned why James would not upgrade her friend when they travel together.
However, McDaniel made it clear she does not expect James to cover the additional cost.
“We talk about this a lot because there’s two different lifestyles that exist,” McDaniel said. “We’re not delusional to that.”
McDaniel said James has also made accommodations based on what she can reasonably afford.
“If we’re going on the same trip, I don’t feel the need to be in first [class],” McDaniel said. “Because that’s not in my budget.”
James and McDaniel explain their financial boundaries
James and McDaniel have reportedly been friends for about 15 years. Their relationship has since expanded into several business ventures. The pair co-host the “Everybody’s Crazy” podcast. McDaniel is also the founder of creative agency Crown + Conquer.
During their “Mental Wealth” appearance, McDaniel explained that traveling together requires planning.
“We’re planning out,” McDaniel said. “Like, we don’t just show up at Fashion Week week-of.”
Their different financial circumstances also affect those plans. James said her friends have never expected her to finance their lifestyles simply because she has greater access to wealth.
“My friends are very respectful of my situation,” James said.
“There’s no expectation of, like, taking care of something or, you know, just having me be responsible for them.”
James added, “It has never, ever been that.”
McDaniel recalled one flight where the difference in their travel budgets became especially noticeable. James was seated in first class, while McDaniel had a business-class seat. McDaniel later joined James to watch a movie during the flight.
The friends previously discussed the moment publicly. McDaniel said people were critical of their separate seating arrangements.
Social media debates friendship and generosity
The resurfaced conversation generated another round of opinions across social media.
Critics argued that James could simply purchase a first-class ticket for McDaniel. Others said they would downgrade their own seat to remain beside a close friend.
One social media user questioned the decision despite understanding McDaniel’s position.
“I want to agree with this,” the user wrote. “I want to respect it. But I can’t shake the feeling that this ain’t right.”
Others defended James and said having a wealthy friend should not create an expectation of financial support.
Former NBA player Brandon Jennings was among those defending James.
“If you can’t afford first class or certain things when you around your rich friends,” Jennings wrote, “ur a certified moocher.”
The debate has also expanded beyond James and McDaniel. Their comments have prompted discussions about financial expectations within friendships where one person earns significantly more.
McDaniel, however, has not suggested the arrangement bothers her. Instead, both women described communication and planning as important parts of maintaining their friendship.
Their partnership has also continued professionally. The pair have brought several ventures together under their Signed holding company. For James and McDaniel, their different budgets appear to be an acknowledged reality rather than a source of conflict.
The internet may have plenty to say about their airplane seats. The two women involved, however, appear comfortable with the arrangement.