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Money Management

Sep 30
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#FinCon16: What My First FinCon Experience Taught Me #ReCap

By Events, Money Management, Uncategorized No Comments




OMG!!! I just experienced my first FinCon, and it was fantastic!

Not only did I get a tremendous amount of information and resources to grow my business, learn how to help more people and obtain significant industry contacts, but I also met my long time Social Media Buddies in person and met more great new friends. It was “virtually” a Financial Family Reunion.

“FinCon is a peer conference for the money media community. At the annual event each Fall, attendees connect with others in the community, learn to create, promote, and profit from compelling online content, and discover new trends in personal finance and investing.” – FinConExpo.com

Tarra Jackson (Madam Money) & Phillip Taylor (PTMoney.com)

Madam Money & PTMoney

Before I share what my 1st FinCon Experience taught me, I must give a special S/O to Phillip Taylor, aka PTMoney, who invited me to FinCon for the last three years. Unfortunately, my schedule did not permit, but this year (2016), at the last minute, I made the decision to invest in myself and attend FinCon. Pretty much a “FinCon or Bust!” situation.

Thanks PT for not giving up on me. Love you to pieces.

Make sure you check out Phillip’s blog at www.PTMoney.com.

 

DISCLAIMER: Every FinCon Recap I’ve read has a disclaimer that the post may be long but worth the read. My disclaimer is no different. It is worth the read. #IJS 😉

The first day of FinCon was overwhelming, but the second day began to feel like HOME. Like I said … AMAZING! So much so, that I must share the 5 Things My 1st FinCon Experience Taught Me.

I HAVE A HOME
Tarra Jackson and Rhonda Williams

Madam Money with All Cash Queen

I sometimes feel like the odd man out. It’s like I am one of a few people that are shouting from the rooftops about Financial Freedom, Financial Resurrection, Money, Credit, Savings, Investing, Insurance in a world trying to avoid the conversation. As soon as I stepped to the FinCon Registration table … it felt … different.  So, I looked for a familiar face and found my #ATL #MoneyNerd sister, Rhonda Williams (All Cash Queen). Since we were both newbies, I felt a sense of comfort.

During breakfast, I was surprised to see so many people in attendance; over 1,200 to be exact. One of the things that made it feel like home was a huge sign that said “#MoneyNerdsUnite!”

Attending my first FinCon reminded me that there are thousands of people, like me. We wake up every day thinking about and working hard to educate the world about economic empowerment and how we can help people reach their financial goals and dreams. I have a home!

#WOMENSWEALTH ROCKS!!!

img_20160922_220743After a great first day at FinCon, I attended Fidelity’s Women and Money event hosted by Tonya Rapley MyFabFinance.com and Melanie Lockert DearDebt.com. It was a delicious dinner on a yacht filled with wonderful and brilliant women in the financial literacy industry. We connected, shared money tips for women, laughed and celebrated each other.

Check out the 5 Kick A$$ Biz Tips I Learned at the Women And Money Event at #FinCon16!  I absolutely love #5!

SHARING IS CARING!!!

The spirit of openness and collaboration was unbelievable. Everyone not only embraced each other, but we also shared our experience, techniques, resources and skills liberally with one another.

Just sitting in the open area waiting for the next session, I ran into my Instagram Buddy, Ash Exantus (IamAshCash.com) and we met some new friends.

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Also, during my conversation with Ash, I booked him as my guest on my Twitter Chat #CashChat for that Friday. It was awesome, and we had a ball! I tried something new with him … VIDEO! Thanks Ash for helping me break my fear of Video! You should check out my YouTube Channel with my #MadamMoneyMinutes. You be so proud of me.

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One of the most breath-taking sharing sessions I experienced was an impromptu lunch with Lynnette Khalfani-Cox (AskTheMoneyCoach.com), Talaat and Tai McNeely (HisAndHerMoney.com), Saundra Davis (SageFinancialSolutions.org), Wilson Muscadin, as well as Rich Jones and Marcus Garrett (PaychecksAndBalances.com). We connected, learned about each other, asked questions, shared helpful tips and established accountability partners. It was epic! The food was good too.

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L-R: Rich Jones, Tarra Jackson, Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, Tai McNeely, Saundra Davis, Marcus Garrett, Talaat McNeely and Wilson Muscadin



DREAMS DO COME TRUE!

Tarra Jackson & Lynnette Khalfani-Cox

Madam Money Meets The Money Coach

When I decided that I wanted to get into the space of financial literacy, I found and began following Lynnette Khalfani-Cox‘s blog, AskTheMoneyCoach.com. She taught me that sharing and giving information is ok and a responsibility. That was ten years ago. Throughout the years, I followed Lynnette and watched her as she eloquently shared Money and Credit Tips on national TV Shows like Good Morning America, Dr. Oz, CNN and more.

Earlier this year my mother was watching the Wendy Williams Show and told me, “That is going to be you!” When I looked at the TV, it was Lynnette sharing her money tips. My mom then said, “You’re going to meet her one day.”  I just smiled, kissed her on her forehead and said, “I sure hope so.”

My mom passed away on April 18, 2016, and my first #FinCon16 gave me the opportunity to meet my financial idol in person. Not only did I meet her, but we enjoyed several meals and events with each other. She is so sweet, caring and giving, as well as a brilliant and savvy business owner. From a person that I admired from afar to a new friend and mentor in less than 24 hours. Only at FinCon!

Make sure to follow her blog and check out her numerous books here!

Look, mom; I finally met Lynnette! Dreams do come true!

MY BFFs (BEST FINANCIAL FRIENDS) ARE AMAZING!

For years I have “virtually” established and built friendships with some of the best Financial Experts across the country. This year I finally met my BFFs (Best Financial Friends) in person at #FinCon16.

After years of supporting each other’s Twitter chats, I finally met Mike Delgado of Experian (#CreditChat) and most of the Social Media Team!

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I even had the wonderful experience of being interviewed on Experian‘s Podcast. We had so much fun!

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During the interview, Kelly Kingman did an incredible sketch of everything I said. She is amazing. Check out what she did for me.

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Another BFF that I reconnected with was Miss #MoneyChatLive Dorethia Kelly. We met once when she came to ATL for an event, but when we saw each other at FinCon, it was like we were together the day before. She is so great, and I love her book, #MoneyChat The Book!

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Needless to say, my first FinCon experience rejuvenated my passion for helping people reach their Financial Goals. FinCon showed me that WE are strong in numbers, we are ready to save the world and more importantly … we have the best Parties EVER!!!

Can’t wait to see everyone and much at FinCon17 in Dallas, TX.

If you went to #FinCon16, what did you like best?

Here are a few more great pics from #FinCon16!

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Sep 29
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5 Kick A$$ Biz Tips for Women

By Business, Money Management, Women's Wealth 2 Comments



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In case you didn’t know … #WOMENSWEALTH ROCKS!!!

After a great first day at FinCon, I attended Fidelity’s Women and Money event hosted by Tonya Rapley MyFabFinance.com and Melanie Lockert DearDebt.com. It was a delicious dinner on a yacht filled with wonderful and brilliant women in the financial literacy industry. We connected, shared money tips for women, laughed and celebrated each other.

A few of my take-aways from the dinner event were:

Put Your Oxygen Mask On First

img_20160922_220743Most women give so much of themselves to everyone around them that they forget or neglect Giving Back to the Giver. There is a reason why the first instruction when we fly a plane is to “put your oxygen mask on first.” Taking care of ourselves is crucial. As women, we must allow ourselves time to rejuvenate, repair and replenish our mind, body, and soul so we can continue to give our blessings to the world.

Fail Forward

Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche reminded us that failure is not final, rather a step closer to success. She gave an impressive example of how we were taught to ride a bike. When we started riding a two-wheeler, we fell a few times, but that didn’t stop us. We kept trying until we rode that two-wheeler with no help and didn’t fall. She explained that it is strange that people are so afraid to fail when it comes to money. Just like learning to ride a bike, falling off our budget, credit or investments is not final. We should Fail Forward, learn from our mistakes and keep working towards financial success! Let’s have some Fun Failing Forward!

We Lose When We Don’t Ask

Tara Wacks of About.com explained that one of the reasons why women don’t get the same pay or benefits as men is because “Women don’t ask.” Tara and other ladies shared why it is so important for women to ASK for more. Even if we think the answer will be “No,” the answer will always be “NO” if we never ASK! So ask for that raise, that promotion, etc. Just ASK! Check out Tara’s new movements TheBalance.com and Shift.TheBalance.com. They give Women the tools needed to ASK!

You are Your Best Investment

img_20160922_220932We were asked to share our best investment. A resounding response from ladies was that investing in themselves was their best investment and had the biggest return. I was one of them and agree. I shared that my best investment, other than attending my first FinCon, was my investment in self-publishing my first book, Financial Fornication. When we invest in ourselves, there are no losses, and we do get the biggest return!

“F” That!

A lovely woman of wealth Emily Guy Birken, author of “The 5 Years Before You Retire,” stood up proudly and shared her final tip for the women at the event. She eloquently shared, “F THAT!!!” People are going to be upset if you stand your ground, be a savvy business woman, ask for what you deserve and don’t take people’s S#IT! So “F” That! Do YOU! It’s your life and your wealth. Don’t let anyone that is not going to positively contribute to your success control your actions and intimidate you from doing YOU!

There was so much more information shared at the Women and Money Event. The bond that was made at this event will last a lifetime. I encourage women to connect, collaborate and continue to kick A$$ because #WomensWealth Rocks!!!

This post was proofread by Grammarly



Sep 29
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VIDEO: How to Be a Baller on a Budget

By Money Management, Saving No Comments

Some of you may be wondering, “What is a ‘Baller‘?” Good question! The term “Baller” means “… to be wealthy, affluent, or have nice things. The term comes from sports because athletes live fabulous lifestyles. So if you look nice and have expensive things you are “ballin” like a professional athlete.”

Those that “look like” they have nice things and like to flaunt their money, especially at clubs, are considered “Ballers.” So, before you head out to the club with your friends, I have five quick tips about how anyone can be a “Baller” on a Budget.

Check out the #MadamMoneyMinute Video Tips of read the transcript tips below. Make sure you share.

BTW. If you would like me to share specific Financial Tips, simply email your financial questions to Info@TarraJackson.com.



Transcript below.

THINK FREE!

Some clubs that serve food may provide a FREE Buffet during Happy Hour to get patrons in the building early. Get there early to get a plate full of hot heavy appetizers. Even if they charge a small fee, it will be less than an entree’. Make sure you at least buy a drink and TIP YOUR SERVER!

$2 TUESDAYS!

Most clubs do drink specials to encourage people to go to their club. The drinks may be smaller in size, but you can “Ball Out” with a $20 bill. Make sure you at least TIP YOUR SERVER!

SHARE!

Instead of everyone getting separate entree’s, order several appetizers. Not only will you be able to enjoy each others’ appetizers, but you can split the bill for the food as well. Just make sure you agree to this before you get to the club or before you order the food. This way you will save come bucks and really TIP YOUR SERVER!

DON’T VALET

Take a few extra steps to find FREE or cheaper parking to save extra bucks. Men, drop off your Lady at the door. Ladies, bring comfy shoes to walk to the entrance OR go where Ladies park for free.  And with the extra bucks you save … make sure you … TIP YOUR SERVER!

AVOID THE COVER CHARGE

Get to the club an hour or two earlier to save from having to pay a cover charge or entrance fee. Some clubs let you come in FREE before a certain time. Since you’ll already be in the building early, you’ll have a great seat and save extra bucks from not having to pay at the door.

Now, since you’ll be saving so much money from the these tips, make sure you put some away in a savings account. And oh yeah … don’t forget to … TIP YOUR SERVER!

Sep 09
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3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Life Insurance

By Insurance, Money Management No Comments

Syndicated

In recognition of Life Insurance Awareness Month, Tonya Rapley of MyFabFinance.com shares her story and 3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Getting Life Insurance.

lifeinsurance-600x400I was raised in military household, which meant living with the imminent possibility of a parent being sent on an assignment and not returning home.  For that reason, my parents were always insured. When I reached the age limit on my parent’s policy, my mother took out a small policy on me. As I began my first job, one of the only demands my mother requested of me was to purchase a life insurance policy. We all have our different reasons for insuring the ones we love, her reason was and still is reasonable to me…She didn’t want to have to beg for money to give me a proper burial.

I have seen numerous crowdfunding campaigns of parents requesting financial assistance to cover burial fees and other costs. Every time I hear this request I am reminded of my mother’s words.

As a sentient being, I understand the emotional justification for having life insurance. As a financial educator I understand the financial significance of having adequate life insurance. Here are three reasons I encourage you to consider getting life insurance.

  1. It helps provide a secure future

Life insurance becomes even more important if your loved ones depend on you for financial support. This is especially true if you are a single mother, the primary breadwinner, or contribute significantly to your family dynamic (such as stay at home parents since your presence in the home relieves the family of child care costs). The death benefit that accompanies life insurance policies can replace your income and provide the financial support your family will need in your absence.

  1. It allows you to create a legacy

Regardless of your socio-economic status, you can leave an inheritance by naming your dependents as the beneficiaries of the life insurance policy. When used properly, life insurance policies can be an intergenerational wealth building tool. The dependant(s) could use the money to pay for their education, start a business, or invest in … (continue reading 3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Life Insurance via MyFabFinance.com)

Aug 11
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CYA [Cover Your Assets] Biz Tip: Sometimes a BOP Bundle is Better for Businesses

By Insurance, Money Management No Comments

WERock CYA Tip 1 BOP Bundle is BetterScenario: Cindy recently opened her hair salon. This has been a dream of her for years and she finally did it! She ROCKS! About 3 months after she opened her salon, a customer slipped and fell and broke her arm. Someone spilled water on the floor and it wasn’t cleaned it up. The customer sued Cindy to pay for her medical bills. Two months after that, her salon was robbed. The criminals damaged stations and chairs and stole her flat screen TVs, registers, PCs and other equipment in her office. In spite of these challenges, Cindy pressed through and kept her business running.

Unfortunately, a few week after her 1st year anniversary, there was a fire in the space next to her salon in the store front strip mall. The fire didn’t destroy the structure but it did major damage to the interior of Cindy’s pride and joy. 🙁

You would think that Cindy would just quit, right? NO!!!

So, how was Cindy able to overcome all of these liability issues / property damages and keep her business open? She obviously had a FAB Business Protection Planner, aka Insurance Agent. 😉 They ROCK!!!

Getting several individual business insurance policies can be costly. Some of the required business insurance includes business interruption insurance, property insurance, vehicle coverage, liability insurance and crime insurance.

A BUSINESS OWNER POLICY (BOP) packages all required coverage a business owner would need. Based on your business’ or company’s specific needs, you can change what is included in a BOP.

Typically, you will save money by choosing … (continue reading “CYA [Cover Your Assets] Biz Tip: Sometimes a BOP Bundle is Better)