Tag: Financial Literacy

Financial Lessons Learned with Chermaine Lyde, DMD

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have Chermaine Lyde, DMD sharing her story and tips.

Dr. Chermaine Lyde is from Lee County. Her father served in the U.S. military, so she grew up traveling to many different places. Dr. Lyde received her undergraduate degree from South Carolina State University in 2002 and her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2007. She then went on to complete a General Practice Residency at Palmetto Health Richland Dental Center in 2008. Dr. Lyde is a member of the American Dental Association, the South Carolina Dental Association, and the Greater Columbia Dental Association. Dr. Lyde is married with two sons. When she is not practicing dentistry, Dr. Lyde loves spending time with family, attending her son’s football and basketball games, cooking, and traveling.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

Always be prepared for the unexpected! We opened Ivy Creek Family Dentistry right in the middle of an international pandemic, which taught us so much about the importance of having a plan A, B, and C when it comes to being a small business owner. We became really well acquainted with the phrase “roll with the punches” during our first 6 months in business.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

Ivy Creek Family Dentistry, Dental Practice

What does financial stability mean to you?

Being financially stable means essentially two things: Being debt free, and having more income than expenditures. The goal of becoming debt/financially free was definitely one of several motivating factors that helped to steer us to practice ownership.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

Planning, planning, and planning! For personal and business finances, I would strongly recommend having 3-6 months of income and/or working capital set aside for any unforeseen obstacles that may pop up.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

We had the names of several firms to “audition” for our business by our lender. Once we met BJ and her team, we could not help but be impressed with her willingness to walk through our startup process systematically with us. She has been and continues to be a great resource for us.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It is of utmost importance to have someone knowledgeable outside of your business reviewing your financials in order to ensure that your revenue/expenditures etc. are on point. As a business owner, I find that it has been super helpful to have quarterly (and sometimes monthly) meetings where all the data that we send in to our accountant each month is laid out in a way that makes it easier to see the bigger financial picture.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

Intuit QuickBooks has been our favorite accounting app so far. It’s easy to use and it breaks down all of the key financial items that we track in a digestible format. We also appreciate numerous other features available that just make accounting that much easier, and our accounting firm is able to pull the data on their end as well.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

Our accountant, BJ Kaucher, handles our personal and business income taxes and serves as our financial advisor in some capacity as well. She is absolutely on speed dial!

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

We are looking to expand our dental practice and the positive impact that we make on families in our local area.

Website | Facebook

Financial Lessons Learned with Founder & CEO Jeri Godhigh

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have CEO and Founder Jeri Godhigh sharing her story and tips.

Jeri Godhigh is a driven leader in the Acworth, Georgia community, a dynamic public speaker and life-changing coach. She leads by example and real life experiences in her coaching. Godhigh is exhilarating, humorous and engages her audience with charisma and passion. Godhigh is the founder and real estate broker of the Godhigh & Associates Realty Company that she started in 2017. Before the inception of her company Godhigh has led a successful real estate career for the past 16 years. Godhigh is naturally talented in the art of real estate sales and leads over one million in revenue. Godhigh desires to help millennials through the home buying experience and help to make it an excellent experience. She has built a solid foundation of corporate clients and relocation throughout her 16 year tenure in the industry. She is a current real estate instructor with the American Real Estate University where she teaches the fundamentals of sales.

Godhigh is also the CEO, Agency Owner of the Godhigh Agency Allstate Insurance Company in Kennesaw, Georgia where she leads a seasoned sales team. She and her team are invested in being trusted advisors to families, individuals and executives in their local community. She has built an impressive financial portfolio consisting of life, auto, retirement and home insurance within a short period of time. Insurance sales falls right in Godhigh’s wheelhouse of skills, she enjoys consulting and educating the community on their options in insurance and in the home buying process.

Godhigh has been recognized for her work and was featured in Formidable Magazine as one of the “Queens of Real Estate” in the Atlanta Metropolitan area. She has also been featured in the American Lifestyle Magazine showcasing real estate articles. She is a minister and the chaplain of the Love Jones Foundation and has served as a district and local leader for the Georgia PTSA. In her downtime Godhigh loves spending time with her family and friends. She has been married for 30 years to her husband Robert Godhigh and they have four wonderful children and six beloved grandchildren.

This year Godhigh will be partnering with her daughter, Jamia Ponder, to bring you Jeri & Jamia: Unfiltered. a powerful and necessary movement, created to help mothers & daughters heal and break generational curses. Both ladies are certified life coaches who help mothers and daughters make strides to heal completely. “Unfiltered” has launched a podcast aimed to heal a nation of mothers and daughters and help break generational curses often carried over in silence. Godhigh and Ponder also offer the “Unfiltered” coaching program, designed to help coach mothers and daughters to a healthy space, to release past hurts, grudges, and pain. In addition, they intend to launch an annual “Unfiltered” Brunch designed to celebrate and bridge mother and daughter relationships.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

As I began to start my businesses I learned quickly that it takes money to make money. It wasn’t always that you needed a ton to get started but it certainly made me realize that “scared money don’t make money”. It is imperative to make strategic moves at the right times in your business and being ready when opportunities knock at your door. I also learned making vital connections with others is key to propelling my businesses along the way.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

Godhigh Agency Allstate Insurance, Godhigh & Associates Realty Company, Jeri & Jamia Enterprises, LLC – I have three thriving business in which they all operate, exist and require financing to make a difference in others lives. One company is an Insurance Company, the other is a Real Estate Company and the last but not least is a Life Coaching Company.

What does financial stability mean to you?

Financial Stability means everything to me. My goals are centered around ensuring that I leave a legacy for my family and those God place in my life and businesses. It is a necessity to me to be financially free so I will be able to Bless others with opportunities for their growth and lifestyles and to be able to support worthy causes. Being financially stable also allows me/you the ability to make an impact in the world.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

Small Business loans is a great place to start along with the business programs and training they have to offer. Most times it is a great start to getting the financial doors open to you. Business partners are also a great way to raise capital to give you a financial push to advance your start. Angel Investors are a good alternative as well. I am also a firm believer in taking what you have saved and make lemonade out of the lemons you already have obtained…metaphorically speaking. In other words, using the money you have to start somewhere…right where you are. Begin..Start right there!

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

1) Seek assistance from an Accounting Specialist always

2) Be surrounded around the right people who can help you achieve your goals and #3..Trust God!

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

Girl Make Your Money Grow – I am a firm believer in helping women realize their worth and growth. This book is a great tool for sharing knowledge of how to get it done.

The Total Money Makeover by John Ramsey – it teaches how to make smart money moves, get out of debt and take control over your money.

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

I have had financial obstacles in which they seemingly felt like I would never overcome. One of the obstacles was derived from an incurable disease that occurred in my life and caused me to be in and out of the hospital frequently. Our family and finances were affected. By the Grace of God, I went into healing and remission and God gave me a renewed look on life. It took courage, determination, energy and creativity to get my businesses off the ground and thriving. But it could not have happened without God and family to believe in me.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

I interviewed a few advisors that were referred to me by financial specialists through the Insurance company. Great referrals are essential and key to your success.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It is very important to having professional support that understands the legal ease of what is needed for your company, accountants, attorneys, etc.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

I believe you should have a team of successful people that is in your corner to guide you along the way. I have a financial advisor, a life coach, a counselor and a life partner.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

My Real Estate Company is opening our second office in South Carolina thus giving us one office in Acworth, GA and one office in Conway, SC. My Insurance company is expanding its staff and leadership team and our Coaching Company where my daughter and I are the founders will be doing our first Book Release of our brand new book with a Launching Gala in June of this year.

Is there anything else you would like to share with me?

It is a Blessing to be an Entrepreneur and operate your own business. With such freedom comes much responsibilities and requirements of you but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It is definitely divinely orchestrated and I am forever grateful to God.

Godhigh & Associates Realty Company Website

Godhigh Agency Allstate Insurance Website

Jeri & Jamia Unfiltered – Coaching Business Website

Financial Lessons Learned with Paris Tyler

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have Founder and CEO Paris Tyler sharing her story and tips.

Paris Tyler is an award-winning communications professional. With more than 15 years of experience in public relations and social media, she has lent her expertise to some of the country’s top consumer brands and campaigns including got milk?, McDonald’s, Honda, Kellogg’s and Intel Security securing stories in top-tier media outlets while growing communities for ConAgra Foods’ brands and establishing Honda’s Battle of the Band’s social presence.

As the founder of Vibrant Communications, Paris is committed to building an agency with a team of devoted talent that reflects the audiences of clients and the brands they partner with – bold, colorful, diverse. Creating dynamic communications solutions for clients such as beauty brands Cantu and Black Radiance As a result, she’s works with beauty brands such as Cantu and Black Radiance while raising the visibility of Black-founded companies such as Collab Capital, Plain Sight, Greentop Gifts and HUE Tech Summit.

Before launching Vibrant, Paris oversaw public relations strategy and programs across Sean “Diddy” Combs’ portfolio of brands that includes REVOLT TV, AQUAhydrate, Sean John, CIROC Vodka, DeLeón Tequila and Bad Boy Entertainment. Fostering and managing relationships with some of the country’s top fashion, food and entertainment influencers, she was able to drive consumer awareness and buzz around the CIROC Vodka Apple launch and the media launch of Combs’ #MMM mixtape with placements in top entertainment outlets such as The Fader, VIBE and Complex.

Prior to Combs, Paris honed her skills at some of the leading agencies in Chicago and New York City – both large and small including Edelman, Weber Shandwick, Zocalo Group, FCG and DKC. Responsible for brands spanning food & beverage to tech, she has developed scalable and strategic programs that have launched brands’ social presence on platforms, grew followers, increased their visibility across multiple media channels and deepened engagement with their audiences.

A Columbus, Ohio native, Paris is currently based in Atlanta, GA. While passionate about media and communications, Paris is an avid traveler and considers herself a foodie, beauty enthusiast and lover of sneakers.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

1. Don’t apply for the business credit card until you have a clear understanding of how you’re paying it.

2. Pricing services appropriately and not letting anyone lowball you.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

Vibrant Communications is a PR/Communications agency.

What does financial stability mean to you?

Being able to comfortable with having more than enough to cover my lifestyle and run my business. Having options available to me when it comes when I am in need of money or additional capital or emergency situations.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

1. Connect with family and friends to understand if you can do a F/F round of funding or crowdfunding.

2. Grants – apply for them!

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

1. Use a budget in business and personal.

2. Establish business credit if you are an entrepreneur.

What is your favorite finance or wealth building podcast? Why should readers listen to them?

I listen to Bigger Pockets.. they really bring on a variety of guests from every angle when it comes to finances to help their listeners in building wealth and making more money.

What kind of impact on your business does not having access to funds and other resources?

It can impact covering expenses such as services you use to run/operate your business or even expenses such as employees or contractors.

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

You Are a Badass at Making Money: It changes your entire mindset on attracting money and being deserving of money. Rich Dad, Poor Dad: It’s a classic book on finances that really provides basic principles regarding money and finances.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

1. Business: This is tough because whatever you’re saving, you’re more than likely investing back into the business so shop around for cost-savings when it comes to softwares, subscriptions, really think about if you need it.

2. Personal: Saving 10% minimum of your paycheck.

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

Appropriately pricing out my services. I was paying myself just enough to live and then realized I had to bake in costs of expenses so clients can cover those as well. Additionally, running up a credit card when I didn’t really need it. Often, we dive in head first thinking “I need this and this,” when you can actually operate a business in the beginning with the bare necessities.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

Honestly, through my network of friends. My financial advisor is an associate of a friend while my accountant

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

Extremely important! My accountant is able to share so much detail and insight on the importance of what type of business I have and how I should think about expenses and operating my business.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

Expensify for business expenses. Digit for spending and saving. Digit rounds up the dollar amount for every transaction and drops it into a savings account.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

My accountant and friends who I know are smart about money.

Have you encountered an experience with financial situation that has changed your views on your finances? Tell me about them.

Yes. Having at one point no clients. It helped me realize that in being self-employed that there will be ebbs and flows with business and the importance of saving money and having a pipeline of clients or projects. It helped me get clear on my client, understand how to find my ideal client and what I needed to sustain and scale both in business and maintain personally.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

We are growing. I’m hoping to hire on two more teammates (one in Atlanta and another in LA). With the world opening back up, seeking to hosting monthly networking events in Atlanta for professionals and transplants to connect.

Is there anything else you would like to share with me?

Vibrant is my second business. I am the co-founder of Posh Entertainment, an events and promotions company in Chicago, that has partnered with brands such as McDonald’s, EFFEN Vodka, MillerCoors and Hennessy.

Website| Linkedin | Instagram | Twitter

Financial Lessons Learned with Dr. Angelina Postoev, MD FACS

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We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have Dr. Angelina Postoev, MD FACS of Surgicare Arts & Aesthetics sharing her story and tips.

Dr. Angelina Postoev MD, FACS, founder of Surgicare Arts & Aesthetics and co-founder and president of Georgia SurgiCare/Ideal Body Institute, and creator of Ori•Or SkinCare line. She is triple board-certified by the American Board of Surgery, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Triple-trained and licensed in Cosmetic, General Surgery, and Critical Care Surgery. Dr. Angelina has been in practice 10 years. Dr. Angelina is committed to providing exceptional non surgical and surgical treatments by using advanced technology and procedures in a state-of-the-art surgical facility. Dr. Postoev relocated to the United States at the young age of 15-years-old from Russia. Starting college at Ohio State at 16 and graduating at 20, and later starting Medical School, and completing training in General Surgery at The Cleveland Clinic. Angelina married her husband, a fellow surgeon and together they built their own practice. The triple board-certified surgeon specializes in Cosmetic Surgery, Bariatric and General Surgery, as well as educating her patients on doing things the right way. Having clients that fly from everywhere to gain the services of Dr. Angelina Postoev, are allowed the option of two locations, Loganville (Gwinnett County) and Buckhead, ATL (both surgical centers). With a staff of around 55, both facilities are able to provide several highly requested services such as Mommy Makeovers,Tummy Tuck, Breast Augmentation and reduction, Vaser Liposuction, Thigh Lift, BodyTite, Labiaplasty, Facial Surgery, and Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery, and more.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

I learned early the benefits of community resources, SBA options for loans, and use of bank loans for business expansion.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

WE founded our first business Georgia Surgicare in 2011, it is a surgical practice, from there we added 2 surgery centers, cosmetic surgery clinics (Surgicare Arts and Aesthetics), and now medical grade skincare line(OriOr SkinCare).

What does financial stability mean to you?

Financial stability means I am confident in my ability to support myself and my family, including my parents. I am able to have freedom to enjoy myself and travel, or help others without worrying about what would happen if I take few days off work.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

Always have a clear business plan, including projection for the future. This will help to talk to financial institutions that could loan funds for business growth.

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

2 financial tips that I can share is to maintain a good credit score, start planning your finances early.

What is your favorite finance or wealth building podcast? Why should readers listen to them?

One of the fun podcasts I like “The side hustle show”, gives me inspiration to do more.

What kind of impact on your business does not having access to funds and other resources?

The impact on your business of not having access to funds and other resources does not apply, since we have that access. But not having it would make it more difficult to grow and expand, which is our goal.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

Saving goals can be very ambitious, but I will go with basics. Emergency funds-in case you lost your job, you have enough to last 6-8 month. In business, if there is downturn in economy, are we flexible enough to continue to operate the business, and do we have enough capital to continue operating and retaining employees for nest 2-6 month?

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

My main financial obstacle when I moves to US was that I had no finances, parents had no finances, and I learnt very early what I needed to do to open myself for better future. Had credit score of 700 before I turned 18, and was able to get all my student loans for medical school on my own, no cosigners at 21. Took a lot of hard work and sacrifices, if I compared myself to an average 18 year old, however, since I had a goal, whatever I did did not feel as a sacrifice.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

To find a good accountant I used recommendation of people I know who are in similar business, who are happy with services. I interview the people I hire, even if its an accounting firm, what can they do that other guys can’t?

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It is very important to have good accountant, bookkeeper for your business. it may seem expensive, or that you can do it yourself, but if you are to grow, you need to think like a large business would.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

I use QuickBooks, it’s a common software, and easy to use for me and staff.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

I personally go to my husband and partner for financial advice, since he is a professional with MBA. I am sure he uses many more resources. (:))

Have you encountered an experience with financial situation that has changed your views on your finances? Tell me about them.

Experiences with financial situation that changed my views on my finances happened when I was young. I grew up in Russia, and came to US as refugee. Basically early life lesson on savings, and desire not to be dependent on people, or other institutions. I made sure starting at 15, when I got my first job, that I will be always comfortable, and do what I have to do to be comfortable financially. I never stopped.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

Our plan is to add more surgery center throughout a country. Our main goal is to be best surgery center for your health needs, with most transparent pricing. No hidden fees. Also, hoping you will see my skin care line (OriOr Skin Care by Dr. Angelina) on the shelves at your local store.

Surgicare Arts Website | Instagram | Facebook

Georgia Surgicare Website | Instagram

OriOr Skincare Website

Ideal Body Institute YouTube | Instagram

Financial Lessons Learned with Laquita Brooks

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have Life Coach and Real Estate Investor Laquita Brooks sharing her story and tips.

It was not easy for Laquita Brooks to get to where she is now. As a teenage mother, she had to learn not to give up when times got tough. Through her hard work, dedication, and perseverance, she came to own her own hair salon. She now owns a FedEx company, a retail fashion boutique, and she works as a real estate investor. Her extensive business experience and knowledge, combined with her humble beginnings, give her the unique ability to connect, empower, and create results. ​ As a Real Estate Investor, Motivational Speaker, and Coach, she transforms lives across the nation by offering simple and direct solutions to some of life’s most challenging problems. Laquita believes that everyone has a story. It’s where you go, not where you come from, that matters most. She inspires women to take the leap and “SHIFT”! Shifting requires three things: giving yourself permission to be great, changing your surroundings, and clarifying your vision. ​ Whether it’s through Laquita’s signature empowerment events like, “The Ultimate Vision Board Party”, “Stop Waiting Do It Now Conference”, “Finish Strong Seminar” or speaking to audiences across the country, “The Motivational Maven” is always ready and willing to help you push past your limitations and step into your greatness. If she can do it, so can you!

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

To keep good records.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

A-1 Property Investors/ Real Estate Investment Company

What does financial stability mean to you?

Having the ability to be able to provide the best education for my children without strain.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

Having and maintaining good credit is the key.

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

1. Build and maintain good credit

2. Know your numbers when flipping a house

What is your favorite finance or wealth building podcast? Why should readers listen to them?

Bigger pockets

What kind of impact on your business does not having access to funds and other resources?

I’m able to growy portfolio.

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

Think and Grow Rich

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

Find ways takeover while you sleep.

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

The recession of ’08 and the pandemic. My husband and I have more than one business. The package and delivery business has grown during the pandemic.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

By word of mouth.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It is important to have the right team on your side. The most stressful thing is to be audited.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

My credit cards apps allow me to see all my expenses.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

My CPA.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

I am growing my real estate portfolio not only in my state but others as well.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Financial Lessons Learned with Diana Byfield

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have CEO and Founder Diana Byfield sharing her story and tips.

Born in Harbor View, Kingston Jamaica but her family migrated in the US when she was 2 yrs old. Diana and her family struggled for most part of what she remember of her childhood. Her mom worked overtime while her father was on drugs and living in infidelity. By at 11 yrs old Diana watched her parents separated and that was a problem, that’s where it all started. Diana rebelled against her mother and soon seen her self out of the house at the age of 16. She worked in retails stores and stood at friends houses or rent out rooms. Until she worked in a mall and was offered by an model agency. Her mind shifted from retail to wanting to be a model in the entertainment business. Diana entered into that field but instead of it helping it was breaking her. From dancing and being known for Dancehall queen it really opened to doors to pride, suicidal thoughts, anxiety and dealing with fears. After dealing with life and hardship she counted so many times of giving up . Diana wanted to know her WHY? But there is a thin line of worries and to addresses. Dancing is Diana yfield. That’s why She created a safe space where women can dance and be released The business page Purpose Powerhouse and the fitness entity, Sweating with Purpose was birthed out of her past pain, sexual abuse, and deep depression that turned into attempted suicide multiple times. As of January 2021, the business was established to serve women who encountered depression, anxiety, stress,or fear. The Life Coaching sessions and building an afro-beats and west indian/inspiration-infused dance fitness studio with meditation classes would help other women see themselves as a Purpose Powerhouse!

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

Have the investments ahead of time or a loan or grant for the business before you start.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

Purpose Powerhouse L.L.C. My business is a coaching business with wellness and dance fitness.

What does financial stability mean to you?

Everything is aligned. You are living beyond of not breaking your pockets, Bills are paid, debt free, balancing life, mind, and spirit.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

Awareness is the first thing. And being confident in what you are selling. Sometimes it doesn’t always have to be you need money to make money. Sometimes in some cases Your money is going to come from an idea.

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

Invest in long term investments so you can watch the revenue grow. Know your spending habits so you can challenge yourself of what not to do.

What is your favorite finance or wealth building podcast? Why should readers listen to them?

Listen Money Matters … it will educate people on another level of how to operate money and how to create wealth with it.

What kind of impact on your business does not having access to funds and other resources?

I will say more for me I am in the beginning stage of being an entrepreneur so I need to know what doors of avenues will take me to the right people. The people that has the connections that will open up streams of multiple revenues.

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

The Fearless Money Mindset: Broke Doesn’t Scare Me from Arian Simone and Rich and Poor Dad Robert T. Kiyosaki…. Both has a concept of showing mindset has a lot to do with how you gain wealth. Also making you evaluate your circumstances and learning what you must take away or get rid of from your life. And what you can start implementing to better yourself and reaching to top of success to your own capacity and capabilities.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

The saving goals you want to have is investing in stocks besides having an 401K or IRA. I like to invest into gold or silver and Real Estate properties as well. We want to aim for wealth that will sustain revenue for generational wealth.

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

My obstacle for me was SPLURGING! lol I had to come out of that mindset of spending but I found out it was a stress or anxiety behavior. I wasn’t one those that buy to get the most latest trend it was as well wanting to feel good. It was like having a mentality of the clothes and the new shoes made me who I am. God had to help me shift that mindset of why I couldn’t see my money. I would just spend. I seen myself investing in stocks and my business it’s the best choice I’ve ever done.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

I joined a Financial Literacy program and it was the best decision in order for me to step into a new era of building wealth. I had to first understand how it works. Wanted to learn what my weakness was and where it came from. What were my potential strength that can help me succeed. I was excited for taking on that journey.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It’s very important because they are your second eye of your Finances. They will catch things before you will and is very important to have one.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

Quickbooks

Who do you go to for financial advice?

I go to Sabrina Abraham, she is well known as THE MONEY GOAT. I am glad and honored I met her as a special guest as a financial advisor within the Financial Literacy workshop/program I attended too.

Have you encountered an experience with financial situation that has changed your views on your finances? Tell me about them.

Yes of course. I was laid off from work then the Pandemic happened right a couple months after. I started my business. Then I knew I needed to make an opportunity for me to step out and do things differently. It pushed me to tap into my gift which lead me into my purpose. It was a purpose to get my household in order. Then Business will be financially in order. Now I can say things are look great and new streams of revenues are ahead.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

Well, I am looking for to expand in different avenues as in products. Will be doing plenty of pop ups ONE DAY – DANCE, SWEAT, RELEASE TOUR in various states, islands , and countries.

Is there anything else you would like to share with me?

I just want my services to help people overcome obstacles but it’s all in the mindest. I AM HERE FOR IMPACT! I will love to see more people igniting their passion and finding their true purpose. In order for the person to live a prosperous life they must be aligned with their God Given purpose.

Why do I want to make a great impact?

People are hungry to wanting more for their lives but don’t know where to start. It really starts with finding your purpose and then everything else will fall into place. You will have clarity of who you are. What you suppose to be aligned with or who you are suppose to be connected too. As well what directions you should be going into that will lead you in your path of success.

Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Facebook

Financial Lessons Learned with S. Elle Clark

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have S. Elle Clark of Elle Clark Solutions sharing her story and tips.

Since 2004, Elle has worked successfully as a small business owner in the retail industry, brick and mortar, several “click and mortar” e-commerce companies, Real Estate, Event Planning, Business Strategy, Marketing and Advertising industries. With emphasis in customer service driven tactics, increasing company profits and sales goals; Elle spends a great deal of her time strategizing with business owners who aspire to create, build and grow their company with the end goal in mind that leads to longevity. Elle focuses on helping clients develop their daily operational management systems, tactful marketing plans, with emphasis on strategic customer service skills; that help increase company revenue. Elle’s vision to become a business owner of a group of companies was recognized at the age of 16. Elle Clark Solutions LLC , has been a dream awaiting to be developed. After many years of exploring consumer solutions among various industries, it was destined that expanding businesses in Real Estate, Retail and Small Business Growth/Brand Communications, were the chosen industries to continually pursue. With 15+ years in the Real Estate Industry, when Elle is not providing great solutions to small business owners, she’s out in the field providing world-class service to buyers, sellers and investors in the real estate market. You can find the proud Mississippi native, simultaneously dedicating her life to being a diligent mother, to promoting several philanthropic causes with her privately funded non-profit organization http://www.passionfundingpurpose.org, travelling or shooting under par on the golf course.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

One of the many things I have learned about finances in business is understanding the true cost of doing business in regards to things like “scaling a company” For optimal growth.

What is the name of your business? What type of business is it?

My company is Elle Clark Solutions where we provide Real Estate Solutions and Small Business Strategy Solutions to business owners who are starting up or already in business but find themselves lacking growth.

What does financial stability mean to you?

Financial stability to me means, having an exceedingly overflow in profits that can expand your business to the next phase or next investment without hindering the financial flow of its current status.

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

The advice I would give to anyone raising capital is to show your track record. First create and develop your business strategy plan (which is a little more analytical than a business plan). Be able to show potential investors what you have done with your own money and how they will gain their return with a minimal errors as possible.

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

I often re read the following books “managing by the numbers” and “duct tape marketing”. These two books always give me different perspectives on how to retain clients, use my investments and profits to my advantage.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

In business you are essentially a commission based employee. I suggest having two saving plans that are a minimum of 12 months of your personal expenses and company operating expenses. In the event of hard times or economic deficiencies, your business has a window and room to plan during the turbulence while sustaining financially.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

It is very important to have the qualified candidate to do what they are in business to do, “manage the numbers” While you grow the vision.

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

Currently we just launched our non profit organization that help funds working class men and women with daily essential needs.

Elle Clarke Solutions Website | Passion Funding Purpose Website

Financial Lessons Learned with Brittany Mobley

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For Financial Literacy Month – We are sharing stories and tips for gaining financial knowledge, financial lessons learned early on in your entrepreneurship journey, personal finance tips and savings goal advice.

We have Brittany Mobley of Culturit Public Relations and Design Co. sharing her story and tips.

Brittany is a public relations and communications professional based out of metro Detroit. She secured her Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Public Relations from the University of Memphis and her masters degree in Public Relations from Full Sail University in 2020. While embarking on her journey of freelance PR and helping independent owners build their brand, she decided to use her field of experience to build a practice of her own. As the CEO of her own PR firm, Culturit Public Relations, everything is in-house for her. She creates her clients graphics, websites, logos, and content for her business. She’s also been able to get coverage for her clients in the Michigan Chronicle, WXYZ and Channel 4 News, RollingOut, BAUCE Magazine and so much more. Brittany is a mom to baby boy Brandon and has currently started her journey as a digital nomad, beginning in Playa Del Carmen Mexico. Brittany’s agency has reached six figures and has allowed her to help corporate and small brands grow and expand with her public relations expertise.

What are some of the lessons you have learned early on in your business about finances? 

1. To keep my business income separate from my personal income

2. To stay present and available to your audience

3. That I can’t do everything alone and it’s okay to ask for help

What does financial stability mean to you?

Being able to put my bills on autopay and being able to pay my tithes!

What advice would you share about how to raise funds or capital for your business?

Be sure to solidify your LLC, EIN, and business structure because you’ll need them for every source of financing that will help your business push forward.

What are 2 financial tips you would like to share?

1. Save, doesn’t matter how much per month, but save something!

2. Business credit is separate from personal credit, so it’s important to understand both.

What is your favorite finance or wealth building podcast? Why should readers listen to them?

Millennial Money, because they’re real stories that we can all relate to and it gives you the truth about how much money we lose as entrepreneurs and how much we end up leaving on the table.

What kind of impact on your business does not having access to funds and other resources?

I am unable to have access to certain platforms that i need to move my business forward.

Share your top 2 Finance or Wealth Building books and why?

The 4 Hour Work Week – It helps you create a life of making money and not sitting behind a desk your entire life.

The Psychology of Money! It truly helps you prepare your mind for a richer perspective.

What savings goals should someone have personally or in their business?

Only spend 25% of what you make! Never 100%

What financial obstacles have you overcome and how did you overcome them?

Separating my business accounts from my personal! It has saved my life because I am Blessed to be financially stable enough to where my business is making a return, rather than running out.

How did you find the right financial advisor or accountant?

She came to me oddly enough. Ebony Cochran is like the financial guru in metro Detroit. She has single handedly eliminated over $100 Million of consumer debt for entrepreneurs.

How important is having an accountant or bookkeeper for your business?

Very important. Unless it’s something you do, the education and awareness provided is an amazing and worthwhile investment.

What are your favorite apps to track your spending or business expenses?

Qapital, QuickBooks and PNC app.

Who do you go to for financial advice?

Ebony Cochran – blackwoodcreditservices.com

Have you encountered an experience with financial situation that has changed your views on your finances? Tell me about them.

Yes! I’ve lost sooo much money on small events to help people, yet there was not a great profit margin, so I ended up spending more than I made and become so broke, I had to quit the entire program because I couldn’t afford to put any more events on! Lesson learned!

What’s next for you in your business/brand? What can readers look forward to from you?

I am working on securing more six figure contracts to keep my agency in the progression phase and helping my clients win media placements, while I’m traveling.

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