This month we interviewed Bernadette Joy from the United States, talking all things true self.

Bernadette takes personal finance personally. Overwhelmed and ignored by traditional advice as a young woman of colour, she taught herself not just to talk the talk. She walks the walk, having paid off over $300,000 of debt in three years and is on track to retire in her forties.

Dubbed her ‘magic recipe’ by Good Morning America, she also shares her trademarked five-step Crush Your Money Goals® method as a contributor for CNBC, TIME, and multiple TV and podcast shows.

When she’s not teaching, find her singing karaoke, delving into DIY projects, and eating way too much chocolate with her husband AJ.

You can find Bernadette on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and on her website, which is jam-packed with great content Crush Your Money Goals.

1.         What inspires you in your everyday life?

My clients that are trying to do better for themselves and the people they love. Also, other people pursuing their dreams without regard for what other people think including my favourite KPop idols!

2.         Tell us your favourite; stress release practice, the thing you are most grateful for, book

Taking a deep breath, walking, live music and singing karaoke.

3.         What has been a life-defining moment for you?

Paying off my house. It was something so many people discouraged me from doing, and those same people are now asking how I did it.

4.         What is the most important thing you have learnt about yourself in your life’s journey?

I didn’t have to build confidence, I had it all along. I just had to find it again after years of being told to ‘know my place’.

5.         Who are you currently learning the most from?

My nieces and nephews! The most unfiltered examples of joy.

6.         What is your best life tip for others?

Don’t take money advice from people who don’t have the receipts.

7.         How do you deal with negative energy?

Sometimes I just plain ignore it. Other days I confront it with my own positive energy in an attempt to at least neutralize it.

8.         What is one thing you like to do every day that cultivates peace and happiness?

Hold hands with my husband.

9.         How can we make a difference in the world?

Be yourself unapologetically, especially as a woman.

10.  Outline a perfect morning routine for us

Wake up, be grateful I woke up for another day. That’s it. Everything else is gravy. 

Thank you Bernadette for your time in sharing with us. Love the saying ‘everything' else is gravy’, that is a great perspective to have.

To view past true self profiles click here.

Each month an inspiring human being will share with us their personal story and tips on how to live your best life. If you would like to be featured in the upcoming months then please feel free to contact us at laurathexplaura@gmail.com or leave a comment below.