Faith & Finances with Mildred Dillon, CPA

What happens when your work becomes part of your purpose?In this episode of Faith & Finance, I sit down with Yanada Essex, licensed clinical social worker, entrepreneur, and newly elected President of the Broad Street Business Association.What started as casual conversation turned into one of those deep talks about service, purpose, business, and what it really takes to keep going when life throws curveballs.From building her practice, Brighter Days, to surviving the setbacks of Katrina and rebuilding again, Yanada shares what faith looked like through uncertainty, entrepreneurship, and serving the community she loves.We also talk about:✨ How she knew social work was her calling ✨ Why some businesses become part of our ministry or service to the world ✨ The connection between money, stress, and mental health ✨ Entrepreneurship after setbacks (including Katrina & COVID) ✨ What makes a social worker different from a therapist ✨ How to know when it’s time to ask for help ✨ Why faith helps you keep showing up — especially when business gets hardOne of my favorite moments?Her saying:“If Jesus was here, He would be in the streets.”That one stayed with me.If you’re building something, rebuilding something, or simply trying to hold on to the dream a little longer, this conversation is for you.- Website: brighterdaysinc.com- Services available virtually in Louisiana & Massachusetts- Follow: Brighter Days Inc. on social mediaFor money systems, entrepreneurship, and practical financial tools from Yanada, listen to that segment on the Money Doctor Money Talk Podcast. podcast.yourmoneydr.comConnect with Yanada Essex / Brighter DaysContinue the practical side of the conversation

In this episode, I share what hit me hard after I showed my real February numbers on camera using my fixed spending allowance worksheet: my spending told a story I didn’t want to admit—lots of food, almost no transportation, nothing in recreation or shopping, and zero personal care (no memberships, no massages) even though I’ve been in physical pain from tech fatigue and feeling depressed in this remote season. Seeing the numbers motivated me to redirect some food money into personal care and recreation so I can get back in balance and actually live. I also give an update on our Dreamers founding cohort (month one of three), explain how the system makes your numbers visible fast, give a preview of what’s coming in months two and three (business + technology), and ask you: what are you sitting on that we can help you bring into the world?00:00 Faith & Finances Show Intro02:08 Reality Check for a Dreamer06:56 Seeing Your Numbers Changes the Game08:44 Clear Finances Can Shape Direction11:25 What is it you're trying to birth?15:11 You're Getting Close That's Why It's Getting Tough17:18 How to Get to "Next Level"23:21 Most Affordable COO Coaching Out ThereLinks Mentioned:📊 Need Help Getting Clear on The Numbers?Join the Dreamers Cohort: https://dreamers.yourmoneydr.com🔗 Yanada Essex, Therapist & Dreamers Bonus Presenterhttps://www.brighterdaysinc.com/

In this episode of Faith & Finances, Mildred sits down with her cousin and trusted voice of wisdom, Myrtis Fisher, following a Sunday school lesson centered on love in action and stewardship.During their conversation, they reflect on the greatest commandments from the Gospel of Mark: loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength — and loving your neighbor as yourself.Together they explore what it means to live out faith beyond church walls, especially in a world that can often feel disconnected and distracted.From the challenges of modern society to the simple courage it takes to speak to a stranger in an elevator, this conversation reminds us that stewardship isn't just about money — it's about how we show up for people every day.This episode is also part of Mildred’s personal reflection during Women’s History Month, sharing the influences and relationships that have shaped her life behind the scenes.The Heart of StewardshipStewardship is about recognizing the gifts and opportunities God has given us — even when we don’t fully understand the path ahead.Love Requires ActionFaith isn’t passive. Loving your neighbor often means stepping forward first, even in small ways.The Courage to ConnectIn a digital world, simple acts like greeting someone or starting a conversation can bring life back into everyday moments.Faith Outside the ChurchLiving out God’s word doesn’t require a formal setting. It can happen anywhere — in the workplace, in a doctor’s office, on a plane, or in an elevator.Mildred shares a moment from her career traveling frequently for work. After noticing how silent and disconnected people were in elevators, she decided to try something simple:She spoke first.“How y’all doing?”Suddenly the entire elevator came to life with conversation.That moment became a reminder that sometimes leadership in faith begins with a small act of courage.Mark 12Jeremiah 17:9Follow Mildred Dillon, CPA on Instagram@mdilloncpaIf you'd like to join the weekly Sunday school conference call discussed in this episode, send Mildred a message and she will connect you with Myrtis.If you enjoyed this episode:Subscribe to the podcastLeave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviewShare the episode with someone who could use encouragement this week

Before there was a business, there was a breaking point.In this first episode, I share how Hurricane Katrina, financial hardship, and a season of rebuilding reshaped my understanding of stewardship, purpose, and faith — and ultimately led to the birth of the The Money Doctor®, now celebrating 20 years.If you’ve ever questioned your path…If you’ve ever pivoted more than once…If you’ve ever wondered how your faith connects to your finances…This episode will remind you:  Nothing in your story is wasted.Why revisiting your origin story mattersReflecting on longevity and divine directionHow early exposure shaped financial confidenceFollowing passion clues and hidden giftsConnecting purpose, family, and moneyLinks mentioned🎧 Listen to the full extended interview on The Convergence Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6rdYguKkMe2SIHboaL5iXC?si=944ee4842ab04120🎧 Want more standalone episodes and hands-on strategies from this conversation? Subscribe for updates at The Money Doctor® Money Talk Podcast: https://apple.co/4kLBgty00:00 – Why This Interview Set the Tone for the Year02:27 – Trust Your Crazy Ideas - 20 Years of Fixing Finances05:17 – Growing Up in a Family Business08:15 – The Pretzel Stand Revelation11:55 –  Hurricane Katrina Revelations15:52 – Invitation to Join the Journey

What does faith have to do with money?In this short introduction, Mildred shares why the journey of building her work required more faith than she ever expected — and how what we believe internally shapes what we do externally.Faith & Finances is about connecting the inner walk with outward action — because the decisions we make in uncertain seasons affect every area of our lives, including our finances.Whether you’re building something, rebuilding after hardship, or simply trusting the next step, you’re not alone on the journey.If this resonates with you, welcome. And please share with someone who needs encouragement today!In this episode:For practical tools and money clarity conversations, listen to The Money Doctor® Money Talk Podcast: https://apple.co/4kLBgty