Show Notes

For many women of color, money isn’t just math — it’s memory. It’s the feeling of scraping by, of having to look successful for the sake of family, of striving to make up for lost time. In this powerful conversation, financial educator Eduek Brooks breaks down how we can reclaim our relationship with money, build a surplus, and finally feel safe with our finances — without shame or scarcity.

The Real Cost of Making Up for Lost Time

As Eduek shared, her $47,000 debt didn’t come from emergencies or student loans. It came from trying to escape survival mode. “I went from having roommates to a fully furnished condo. I wanted to live like I was making six figures… but I wasn’t.”

This is something many women of color relate to — the pressure to “catch up” financially leads to overspending. And when your nervous system finally feels safe enough to rest? Your bank account may not.

The Money Mindset Holding Us Back

One of the most powerful takeaways from Eduek’s story is the role mindset plays. “People think wanting more money is greedy. But you’re not more humble just because you can’t save.” Many of us subconsciously sabotage opportunities because we’ve been taught to shrink instead of expand.

You deserve to live in abundance — not just survive it.

What Is a Surplus, and Why Does It Matter?

Eduek defines a surplus as the money you have left after your bills are paid. And according to her, if you’re spending everything you make, you’re likely not investing or reaching your financial goals.

Her suggestion? Aim for a 30% surplus — that means keeping 30 cents of every dollar to save, invest, or use for future plans. Whether it’s retiring your parents or buying a home, that surplus is what will get you there.

How She Paid Off $47K in Debt in 20 Months

After realizing how much debt she had, Eduek got serious. She laid everything out in a spreadsheet, took on side hustles, worked overtime, and budgeted every single paycheck. “I told myself, if I want to live like this, I have to make a shit ton of money.”

Her clarity and determination — and her decision to keep living within her means even after paying off her debt — helped her go from debt to investing over $30K within two years.

Getting Started With Investing (Even If You’re Scared)

If the word “investing” makes you anxious, Eduek has a solution: ETFs. These “exchange traded funds” bundle top-performing companies like Apple, Amazon, and Netflix into a single investment, lowering your risk and simplifying your choices.

“If you’re going to shop sales at Costco, you should love a stock market sale too,” she laughs. The key? Consistency, a long-term view, and not letting fear keep you from trying.

Final Takeaway: Money Safety Is Possible

You don’t need to deny your desires to feel secure. You just need to know where your money is going and why. “There’s no lifestyle worth constant financial anxiety,” Eduek says.

Let this episode remind you that feeling safe with money isn’t a fantasy — it’s a decision, a strategy, and a journey. You can start today.

Connect With: Eduek Brooks

Website:
twosidesofadime.com

Instagram:
@twosidesofadime

Email:
eduek@twosidesofadime.com

Join the membership: forthe23percent.com/membership

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