In this powerful episode of Money Talks: Wealth Beyond Numbers, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason sits down with Shelley Meche'tte for a conversation that goes far beyond business strategy. After surviving three strokes in one day, Shelley was forced into a season of stillness that stripped away titles, productivity, and performance.

What remained was a deeper question: Who am I beyond what I produce? Together, they explore identity beyond career, the hidden cost of burnout, the importance of listening to your body, and what it truly means to align success with God's purpose.

This episode is a wake-up call for ambitious women (and men) building businesses while trying to hold everything together. Because real wealth isn't just measured in revenue — it's measured in alignment, peace, and purpose.

Feeling stirred? Good. Now it's time to build. The Financial Empowerment Toolkit is your step-by-step guide to breaking money cycles, strengthening your financial confidence, and aligning your wealth with purpose. Don't just listen to the conversation—activate it. Get yours here: https://bit.ly/FinancialEmpowermentToolKit .

Shelley Meche'tte is a celebrated EmpowHERment speaker, life strategist, Certified Life Purpose & Confidence Coach, and Amazon #1 bestselling author who equips ambitious, faith-driven women to release burnout, establish healthy boundaries, and confidently balance faith, family, and business through her signature S.M.I.L.E. Framework.

A three-time stroke survivor in a single day, her life-altering experience became a God-led wake-up call that reshaped how she lives and leads—fueling her mission to help women build purpose-aligned lives and businesses without sacrificing their health, peace, or loved ones. Her message is clear: true success is rooted in intentional living, alignment, and faithful stewardship—not constant striving.

Shelley is the author of *70 Days of Happy: Life Is BETTER When You Smile*, *PowHER Minds*, and *Women Inspiring Nations*, and is known for her transparent storytelling, humor, and practical strategies that leave a lasting impact. Her career spans work with Warner Bros., Walt Disney, and Saban Entertainment, with features on CBS, NBC, ABC, Shondaland, and appearances on platforms like *Peace of Mind with Taraji*, *The Claudia Jordan Show*, and *The List*. S

he is the founder of The PowHERful Woman and has been recognized as a Top 25 Woman in Business, a 2025 Global Trailblazer, and one of 2025's Top 60 Women Leaders to Watch.

Website: www.ShelleyMechette.com

Free gift from Shelley: Journey with God Journal https://shelleymechette.myflodesk.com/5dayjournal

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Money Talks Wealth Beyond Numbers

01:08 Shelley's Journey: From Mompreneur to Faith-Driven Womenpreneur

03:10 The Challenge of Serving Oneself

06:23 Redefining Purpose Beyond Paychecks

08:49 Navigating Health Challenges and Identity Transformation

10:59 Returning to Faith-Based Entrepreneurship

13:55 Aligning with God's Purpose

14:28 Recognizing Signs of Health Issues

19:19 The Experience of a Stroke and Its Symptoms

23:50 Embracing Change in Seasons

25:02 Setting Intentions for Daily Alignment

29:40 The Power of Gratitude and Joy

34:15 Redefining Success Beyond Money

38:39 Lessons from the Journey of Healing

40:54 Upcoming Initiatives and Programs

Takeaways

Shelley's health crisis led to a deeper understanding of purpose.

Purpose is not defined by financial success but by alignment with one's calling.

Women often struggle with identity when faced with health challenges.

Gratitude and joy can coexist with fear and uncertainty.

Recognizing health signs is crucial for timely intervention.

Success can be redefined as simply waking up and being present.

Alignment with God's plan is essential for true fulfillment.

Nothing in life is wasted; all experiences contribute to growth.

Grind culture can be detrimental; grace should lead our actions.

Intentionality in daily life can lead to greater peace and success.

Keywords:

Money talks, wealth, purpose, faith-driven, women entrepreneurs, health challenges, identity, alignment, gratitude, success, Black women, therapy, God, Christ, Wellness, stroke, recovery, health is wealth

What if real wealth isn't just about money—but about healing, community, and access?

In this powerful episode of Money TALK$™: Wealth Beyond Numbers, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason sits down with TaTyana Abreu, Financial Stability Manager at United Way of York County, for a deeply human conversation about what financial wellness actually looks like for families navigating real-life challenges.

TaTyana takes us behind the scenes of community-based financial empowerment—breaking down life-changing programs like VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and Rise United, and how they help families keep more of what they earn, build savings, and regain stability. She also shares her personal journey in the nonprofit space, the emotional weight of service-driven work, and the constant balancing act between purpose, burnout, and boundaries.

Together, Dr. Constance and TaTyana unpack:

• Why financial literacy without emotional support falls short

• How childcare and transportation quietly block access to resources

• What it means to pour into the community without losing yourself

• And why investing in children's passions is an investment in generational healing

This episode is a reminder that financial health is deeply connected to mental, emotional, and community wellness—and that advocacy, empathy, and support systems are just as valuable as a budget or savings account.

✨ If you care about community impact, holistic wealth, and breaking cycles—not just building assets—this conversation is for you.

Visit the Money TALK$ website for the Financial Wellness Planner discussed in this episode here. https://bit.ly/FinancialEmpowermentToolKit

• Wealth is about healing, not just dollars.

• Community service fuels both personal and collective growth.

• Empathy and active listening are non-negotiables in impactful work.

• Programs like VITA help families retain more of their income.

• Financial literacy is a cornerstone of long-term stability.

• Childcare and transportation remain major access barriers.

• Recognition often reflects consistent, behind-the-scenes impact.

• Work-life balance is an ongoing practice, not a finish line.

• Setting boundaries requires intentionality and courage.

• Investing in children's interests supports confidence, joy, and future success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wealth Beyond Numbers
01:00 TaTyana Abreu: Community Advocate
04:36 The Importance of Community Service
08:45 Programs for Financial Wellness
11:49 Understanding VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
15:21 The Impact of VITA on the Community
16:28 Rise United: Building Financial Literacy
19:25 Eliminating Barriers to Access
21:43 Recognition and Impact in the Community
24:51 Navigating Work-Life Balance
28:59 Financial Lessons Learned
32:40 Upcoming Community Initiatives
35:49 Leadership and Support in the Workplace

TaTyana "Tat" Abreu is the Financial Stability Manager at United Way of York County, where she leads and continues to expand the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. She is passionate about helping individuals and families build long-term financial stability and access the resources they need to thrive. A graduate of Penn State York with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies, Tat has built a strong foundation in the nonprofit sector, bringing her commitment to community support to her role at United Way.

She recently earned her Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University and was honored at the 2025 Changemaker Awards. When she isn't working, Tat enjoys spending time with her two young children, Reina and Adonis, who keep her active and inspired.

Visit United Way The York County Website For Services Here https://www.unitedway-york.org

Keywords

wealth, community service, financial wellness, VITA, Rise United, financial literacy, work-life balance, nonprofit, advocacy, empowerment

When Dr. Jimmy Davies couldn't find a space where Black entrepreneurs could learn, connect, and grow — he built one. As the founder of Every Dot Black, Dr. Davies turned his vision into a thriving community that empowers business owners to rise together. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason uncovers the lessons, mentors, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey.

Together, they explore how mentorship transforms vision into reality, why networking is a lifeline for entrepreneurs, and how technology can multiply your impact. This episode is a reminder that success doesn't happen in isolation — it's built through guidance, growth, and the courage to keep showing up for your dreams.

Take the first step toward transforming your financial future with the Money TALK$™ Financial Empowerment Tool Kit. This interactive planner combines budgeting templates, debt-payoff strategies, journal prompts, affirmations and even a multi-sensory colouring component—designed to guide you not just to financial clarity, but to emotional wellbeing too. By putting the tools in your hands and joining a community of driven individuals, you'll shift from simply dreaming about wealth to actively building it.

https://bit.ly/FinancialPlannerPage

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jimmy Davies
02:58 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Mentorship
05:54 The Importance of Networking and Community
12:05 Leveraging Technology for Business Efficiency
23:36 Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Education
26:25 Overcoming Fear of the Unknown
29:49 Every Dot Black: Community and Resources
32:10 Lessons Learned: Financial Awareness and Responsibility
36:46 Mindful Money Management and Community Support

Takeaways

Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Networking expands your opportunities and resources.
Technology is essential for modern business operations.
Financial literacy is key to managing income effectively.
Community support can lead to greater success.
AI can be a valuable tool for entrepreneurs.
Learning from failures is part of the journey.
Building a network can enhance your business prospects.
Every Dot Black provides resources for entrepreneurs.
It's important to seek help and guidance in business.

About Dr. Jimmy J. Davies

Dr. Jimmy J. Davies is a seasoned computer instructor, database developer, and visionary entrepreneur with over 37 years of experience in the technology and education fields. Throughout his career, he has trained more than 10,000 individualsin computer software, including artificial intelligence, empowering them to harness technology as a tool for growth and innovation.

As the founder of Every.Black, LLC, Dr. Davies is on a mission to educate and inspire people to create wealth through entrepreneurship—by leveraging technology and building a strategy rooted in global networking. His work connects business owners worldwide, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and community empowerment.

Dr. Davies believes that change creates opportunity—and because change is constant, opportunity is always within reach.

📺 Watch: The Reason for Every.Black
📰 Read: An Article About Dr. Davies
🌐 Learn More: Every.Black Founder's Page

"When there is change, there is opportunity. Since change is constant, there is always opportunity." – Dr. Jimmy J. Davies

Keywords

mentorship, networking, technology, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, community support, AI, business growth, Every Dot Black, personal development

Get ready for a transformative and unfiltered conversation as Dr. Constance Craig-Mason sits down with the powerful and transparent D. Cherelle. Together, they unpack the intersection of money, mindset, and mental health—revealing how financial trauma, emotional healing, and self-awareness all collide on the path to true wealth.

D. Cherelle gets incredibly raw as she opens up about her journey through divorce, domestic violence, and the humbling process of checking her own ego around money. She shares how these painful lessons shaped her passion for empowering others—especially the men she now works with in the prison system—and her mission to spark global change through financial and emotional transformation.

This episode dives deep into what it really means to rebuild from the inside out: confronting financial fears, leading with authenticity, and creating sustainable success rooted in healing.

🎧 Press play for a conversation that will move you, challenge you, and remind you that your money story can become your ministry.

To take your next step to building wealth in a healthy and supportive way, click here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Financial Empowerment
04:49 Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
07:04 Capacity Building in Financial Services
15:00 The Intersection of Financial Trauma and Mental Health
23:23 Navigating Financial Challenges in New Environments
30:55 Overcoming Financial Reluctance
33:27 The Power of Financial Planning for Entrepreneurs
39:14 Reframing Financial Conversations
42:08 Lessons from Personal Loss
48:00 Transforming Trauma into Testimony

Takeaways

• Building financial literacy is crucial for entrepreneurs.
• Financial trauma can significantly impact mental health.
• Therapy can be a valuable resource for healing.
• Experiencing survival mode can change one's perspective.
• Community support is essential for financial empowerment.
• Authenticity in financial services fosters trust.
• Fear of financial discussions can hinder progress.
• Many people feel reluctant to organize their finances due to fear and shame.
• Financial planning is essential for entrepreneurs to transition from survival to sustainability.
• Addressing financial trauma is crucial for effective financial planning.
• Reframing the narrative around budgeting can empower individuals to take control of their finances.
• Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in financial planning and entrepreneurship.
• Transforming personal losses into lessons can guide future decisions.

D. Cherelle Cohens, MBA is a CFO Strategist, Financial Trauma Expert, and founder of FinTraum, a financial literacy agency empowering entrepreneurs to overcome financial barriers and build sustainable businesses. With over 17 years of experience across banking, insurance, and financial consulting, she helps founders transform their financial futures through trauma-responsive planning. D. Cherelle is passionate about demystifying business finance, building financial confidence, and closing funding gaps for underserved entrepreneurs. She's also an adjunct professor, national speaker, and co-author on one of the Money TALK$ books. Her mission: help leaders rewrite their financial stories and lead with vision, resilience, and financial power.

Visit D. Cherelle's website here- https://www.fintraum.com

Keywords

financial empowerment, entrepreneurial ecosystems, capacity building, financial trauma, mental health, financial literacy, business planning, community support, personal growth, professional development, financial planning, financial trauma, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, personal growth, budgeting, financial organization, overcoming fear, sustainable business, emotional intelligence

In this episode of Money TALK$: Wealth Beyond Numbers, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason sits down with financial coach Bobby Clark for a powerful, heartfelt conversation that goes far beyond budgets and numbers. Together, they dive into the money lessons our children absorb from us—both the wins and the mistakes—and how we can use those moments to build generational wealth differently.

You'll hear Bobby share how to reshape your money story, uncover the beliefs holding you back, and use accountability—especially within marriage—as a strength. From learning how to talk about money with your spouse in a healthy, productive way to understanding why role models matter, this episode is packed with wisdom and real-life strategies you can apply today.

If you've been craving financial guidance delivered with authenticity, heart, and expertise, this conversation is for you. Tune in and discover how to rewrite your money journey with intention and hope.

Learn more about the podcast and how you can change your money story here. https://moneytalksmovement.com/pages/the-podcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Financial Coaching and Personal Journey
04:57 The Importance of Modeling Financial Behavior
10:16 Understanding the BASE Framework
18:54 The Role of Accountability in Financial Success
27:24 Defining Wealth Beyond Money
30:39 Navigating External Challenges and Control

Takeaways

Modeling good financial behaviors is crucial for children.
Mistakes can be valuable learning experiences.
The BASE framework includes beliefs, attitudes, stories, and emotions.
Accountability partners are essential for financial success.
Communication is key in financial discussions between spouses.
Wealth is a personal definition that goes beyond money.
Saving money is important, even in small amounts.
External challenges can disrupt financial stability.
Focus on what you can control in financial situations.
Financial education is vital for long-term success.

Bobby is a financial coach and founder of Clark on Money Financial Coaching Service, a service that guides STEM professionals who feel strained by money stress to a happier, more confident life. Coach Bobby is a Certified Professional Financial Educator and a Financial Accountability coach.

He is an active member of the Accountable Network, an international group of financial coaches who offer guided steps to financial freedom through coaching, resources and events and the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning, a national organization recognized for financial counseling, coaching and education. Bobby enjoys gardening and outdoor sports. He has been married for 50 years and has 2 adult children.

Website - https://www.accountable.network/bobbyclarkwebsite

Social Media - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbyclarkfinancialcoach/

Freebie Newsletter - https://clark-on-money.kit.com/03f3f05a11

Free Coaching Assessment -

https://clarkonmoneyclientscheduler.as.me/privatechat

Keywords

financial coaching, money management, accountability, BASE framework, financial education, personal finance, wealth building, financial role models, financial literacy, STEM professionals

In this premiere episode of the Money Talks: Wealth Beyond Numbers podcast, Dr. Constance Craig-Mason sits down with licensed clinical mental health counselor Blaise Harris to dive deep into the powerful connection between mental health, masculinity, and financial wellbeing. Together, they unpack the hidden weight men carry—the pressure to be strong, silent, and unshaken—and how that impacts everything from self-worth to wealth-building.

From the mental toll of first responders, to the process of navigating grief, to the courage it takes to seek professional help, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to invest in yourself. Blaise also shares actionable insights on building community support and creating spaces where men can speak openly about mental health.

🔥 This episode challenges stereotypes, sparks honest reflection, and reminds us that wealth isn't just about money—it's about becoming whole.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Money Matters

02:50 Masculinity and Vulnerability

05:47 The Impact of First Responders on Mental Health

08:53 Stress Management in Everyday Life

11:53 The Importance of Professional Help

14:53 Navigating Therapy and Mental Health Stigma

23:33 Navigating Loss and Grief

28:03 Self-Assessment and Emotional Awareness

34:41 Investing in Self-Worth and Growth

39:22 Community Engagement and Support

Blaise is a LCMHC (licensed clinical mental health counselor) and EMDR certified therapist. With almost 15 years' experience as a firefighter, Blaise became a fixture in the Fire and Life Safety Education world. Although he is no longer part of the fire service, his ties run deep. Blaise became The Dope Black Therapist, initially, because he wanted to be a therapist for first responders. He knows that we will not talk to just anyone and we want to talk to someone that actually "gets it." Blaise later realized that he wanted to be a voice, an ear, and support for Black males and people of color dealing with their mental health. After going through his own problems with depression, divorce, and grief, Blaise brings a unique perspective to how he does therapy. Blaise's focus is trauma and he utilizes several treatment modalities in sessions including expressive and martial arts. Blaise is a published author of Becoming The Dope Black Therapist, runs a men's support group every other Thursday, and hosts a bi-weekly podcast called, The Dope Black Therapist.

You can find Blaise's book "Becoming The Dope Black Therapist" on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW283RSW?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_97NCK5ZY4BSJK3J37T1Y&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_97NCK5ZY4BSJK3J37T1Y&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_97NCK5ZY4BSJK3J37T1Y&bestFormat=true .

Listen To The Dope Black Therapist Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/5hFq5VYu4s2wedUaJqW2pj?si=0e5a1722bd1340eb&nd=1&dlsi=49382ab945c94000

Men's Support Group That Meets Twice Per Month Contact Us On Website

https://www.thedopeblacktherapist.com

Takeaways:

Mental health and financial wellbeing are interconnected. Men often feel societal pressure to suppress emotions. Vulnerability is essential for emotional health. First responders face unique mental health challenges. Stress management techniques can be applied in everyday life.

Seeking professional help is a sign of strength. Grief can manifest in various forms beyond loss of loved ones. Self-worth is crucial for personal and professional growth. Investing in oneself can lead to significant personal development. Community support is vital for mental health awareness. Ready to heal your money story—and build lasting wealth from the inside out?

If you're curious about how to confront money trauma and empower your financial journey with heart, check out the Financial Empowerment Tool Kit—an inspiring, multi-sensory planner packed with budgeting templates, journal prompts, affirmations, coloring pages, and more. It's not just a financial tool—it's a path to deeper self-understanding and emotional wellness. Visit https://moneytalksmovement.com to start your transformation.

Keywords mental health, masculinity, vulnerability, first responders, stress management, professional help, grief, self-worth, therapy, community support