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In this episode of the Influence Her Mindset Podcast, Miko welcomes real estate broker and OWN reality star Jermeshia Braden Gordeau to talk about Generational Wealth. Miko frames money as the leading source of conflict in relationships and ties that stress to broader affordability pressures and a widening of the wealth gap. Jermeshia explains that while mortgage rates have eased from the high 6s to the low 6s, affordability—not just the rate—is the real constraint, and she considers 5% a healthy target historically. She shares her family’s path of starting with a modest primary home, living simply, and converting previous homes into rentals on the journey toward a dream home. Both emphasize that secrecy around money—especially in Black families—holds people back; the antidote is honest, recurring conversations about goals, budgets, and plans.

The discussion goes deep on financial trauma and therapy after Miko’s personal story of money-related violence and dependency. Jermeshia urges naming patterns (like “money hoarder” or extreme saver) and using financial therapy to heal them so strategy isn’t sabotaged. Credit is reframed as a tool: set minimum autopay to avoid late payments, keep utilization around 30% or less, and use-and-pay routines to build history. They note how a slightly worse rate can cost $100 more per month on the same house—money that could have compounded in investments. For single mothers and new investors, Jermeshia suggests starting small, partnering with trusted people, considering REITs or co-investing, and remembering you can live where you want but invest where the numbers work. She adds that, in today’s market, some buyers can secure low or no down payments with negotiated closing costs, even if the first home isn’t the dream—because compounding and equity create options later. Finally, she highlights the wealth-building power of long-term partnership in marriage, viewing spouses as legacy-building partners. The episode closes with a shared message: start now, talk openly, use credit wisely, live lean for a season if needed, collaborate with family or trusted friends, and build together to narrow the wealth gap and create lasting legacy.

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Season 2, Episode 1, in this episode Miko is checking in with listeners about their financial stress, concerns about the economy, government policies, taxes, and the disappearance of DEI programs. She shares her own journey as a first-generation college graduate, six-figure earner, and leader in financial education—emphasizing how income alone doesn’t prevent financial struggle. Despite her advanced degrees and professional success, she too once lived paycheck to paycheck due to poor money management.

She highlights shocking stats:

65% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck.

Even 58–78% of six-figure earners struggle financially.

Financial stress deeply affects mental health, contributing to anxiety, workplace issues, and even suicidal thoughts.

Miko stresses the need for a mindset shift over income increase. She discusses the racial wealth gap and urges listeners to break generational cycles of financial instability. Her advice includes:

Creating a spending plan and tracking expenses for 30 days.

Avoiding credit card debt unless it can be paid in full or kept below 30% of the limit.

Paying in cash when possible.

Saving and investing 30% of income.

Building an emergency fund and avoiding lottery tickets, especially given current scandals involving the Texas Lottery Commission.

She encourages listeners to take action—whether through her company (Confident Financial Inc.), a financial therapy session, or just starting small by tracking spending.

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In the Season 2 kickoff, Miko welcomes listeners back with excitement and reveals updates to the podcast’s new set, new team, and elevated production for 2025. She dives into current events, expressing concern over political upheaval, job losses, and sweeping economic changes introduced by the new presidential administration, including new tariffs on imports under $800—which will especially impact products from China that many Americans rely on.

Miko highlights opportunities for entrepreneurship, encouraging listeners to consider U.S.-based product creation amid shifting trade policies. She also touches on viral social media trends like the TikTok Ice Bucket Challenge (which she’s not participating in), HillmanTok University, and trending dog videos.

She promotes her role as Professor Miko teaching financial therapy and encourages signups for summer courses at HTU. Then, she teases what’s coming in Season 2, with a powerful lineup of topics spanning money, relationships, and personal growth, including:

• Living paycheck to paycheck—even on six figures
• Gambling addiction in America
• The emotional “cost” of saying no
• Gender roles in relationships
• Cheating with Plan B
• Getting stuck in heavy rotations in relationships
• “Love doesn’t cost a thing”
• Pimps, Pills, and the Pavement (details to come)

The episode closes with an invitation to stay tuned and engaged, promising content that’s fun, insightful, and deeply relevant to listeners’ lives.

Back and better than ever, Miko breaks down the whirlwind of changes shaking up our world this 2025! Plus, get the scoop on the latest TikTok trends, and hot topics as she encourages you to share your opinions! Let's get into it!

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Follow us on ALL social media platforms @influencehermindset
Have a story to share? Send us an email at influencehermindset@gmail.com