How to use money as a tool for change with Kara Pérez / 40

What if your everyday money choices could actually change the world? Meet Kara Pérez, founder of Bravely Go and author of "Money for Change," who proves that aligning your finances with your values doesn't mean sacrificing your financial goals.From $20,000 in student loans to building a business around values-based financial education, Kara shares how she paid off debt in 10 months and discovered the hidden power behind where we put our money.This conversation challenges everything you think you know about "good" financial advice. Kara explains why 70% of the US economy runs on consumer spending, how to spot financial greenwashing, and why your bank choice is more powerful than you realize.✨ Episode Timestamps ✨[03:00] Kara's origin story: the I-35 breakdown that changed everything [07:00] How she paid off $18,000 in student loans in 10 months (with creative side hustles) [12:00] What sustainability-focused financial education actually looks like [16:00] Why naming systems (not just symptoms) matters in personal finance [21:00] Why the big four banks are funding what you're fighting against [25:00] How overconsumption is designed to keep you spending [32:00] Simple steps to align your money with your values (starting with banks) [37:00] Financial greenwashing: how to spot fake eco-friendly marketing [47:00] Planning for the future when you're intentionally child-free [52:00] Getting started with ethical investing (it's not about perfection)✨ Resources ✨Connect with Kara:Website: bravelygo.co Socials: @webravelygo YouTube: @bravelygoBook: Money for ChangeSupport the show📩 Get The Finance Girlies newsletter: https://www.thefinancegirlies.com/newsletter💻Visit The Finance Girlies website: https://www.thefinancegirlies.com/💖Email us your money questions: [email protected]📸Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegirlies/