Financial State of Minds with Darrin Harvey
by Darrin Harvey
Want to get out of debt, build stronger credit, and make smarter money moves? Better money starts with a better financial state of mind. Financial State of Minds with Darrin Harvey, the Money Counselor™, helps listeners rethink how they use money, credit, cash flow, and capital to create more stability, more options, and more opportunity. From rebuilding personal credit and escaping the debt cycle to understanding business credit, getting funding, securing loans, saving smarter, investing with more awareness, and making money work with more strategy, each episode turns complex financial topics into clear guidance people can put to work immediately. Through solo episodes, expert interviews, real life money conversations, and listener Q&A, Darrin uses his perspective as a financial coach, business advisor, keynote speaker, founder, and member of the visually impaired community to make financial education more accessib
Episodes
-
More Than Pizza: How Sonia Mani Built a Community Business | Business Spotlight Ep. 1
In the debut episode of Business Spotlight, Darrin Harvey visits Straw Hat Pizza in Hayward, California, to interview owner Sonia Mani. Discover how she spent 13 years building a community-centered restaurant while managing employees, raising two children, and launching a second business. Sonia...
-
The Great American Retirement Myth: Is Everything We Know About Retirement Wrong?
Is everything we've been taught about retirement planning still relevant? Financial industry professional and author Jim Capuano joins Darrin Harvey to challenge conventional retirement advice and discuss what he calls The Great American Retirement Myth. Together, they explore Social Security,...
-
Turning Pain Into Purpose: My Journey to Financial Security (Live Keynote)
In this special live episode, Darrin shares the deeply personal story that inspired his lifelong passion for financial security and the creation of Financial State of Minds. Recorded during a keynote speech at the Silicon Valley Council of the Blind, Darrin reflects on becoming legally blind,...
-
The Five Pillars of Personal Finance | A Live Financial Literacy Workshop
Experience one of Darrin Harvey’s live financial literacy workshops, originally presented for the Warriors Development Institute and moderated by Troy Sandidge. In this practical session, Darrin introduces his Five Pillars of Personal Finance—budgeting, emergency funds, credit, debt management…
more -
Juneteenth Special: Money, Mindset & Motivation Through the Lens of Black Men (Part 1)
In this special Juneteenth episode, Darrin Harvey is joined by Tarik Williams and Troy Sandidge for a powerful conversation about money, mindset, motivation, and empowerment from an African-American perspective. The three discuss financial literacy, personal growth, representation…
more -
If You Had to Spend $50,000 in 48 Hours, What Would You Do?
What would you do if you had to spend $50,000 in the next 48 hours? Darrin Harvey and TEDx speaker Troy Sandidge react to some of the most memorable, emotional, and thought-provoking responses from a viral Threads post. From paying off debt and helping family members to investing and pursuing...
-
Is There Really Such a Thing as “Good Debt”?
Is there really such a thing as “good debt”? In this solo episode, Darrin Harvey challenges one of the most common ideas in personal finance. While mortgages, student loans, and business loans are often labeled as good debt, Darrin argues that the reality is far more nuanced. Learn why debt…
more -
Your Financial Situation Is Your Responsibility
In this raw and motivational solo episode, Darrin discusses why personal accountability is one of the most important traits for financial success. While your current financial situation may not be entirely your fault, Darrin argues that it is ultimately your responsibility to improve it. Learn…
more -
Stocks vs Real Estate: Why I Changed My Mind
In this solo episode, Darrin shares why he shifted from being firmly on “Team Real Estate” to preferring stock market investing. He explains why liquidity, diversification, accessibility, and passive investing ultimately changed his perspective on building wealt About Darrin Harvey Darrin Harvey,...
-
What’s Your Why? The Real Reason You Want More Money
In this personal and motivational solo episode, Darrin challenges listeners to identify their financial “why.” Drawing from his own experiences and motivations, he explains why understanding the purpose behind your financial goals is often more important than the money itself. Learn why Darrin’s...
-
The Origin of Financial State of Minds: A Conversation with Darrin Harvey
In this previously unreleased interview recorded at Chabot College, Darrin Harvey shares the story behind Financial State of Minds, discusses the basics of creating a financial plan, and explains how business credit can help entrepreneurs grow. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at...
-
What to Know Before Starting a Business | Business Structures, Mindset & Strategy
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz discuss what future business owners need to consider before officially starting a business. From business entities and structures to online vs brick-and-mortar businesses, this episode breaks down the mindset, strategy, and awareness required for entrepreneurship. About...
-
Mindset, Burnout, and Resilience: A Conversation with Tarik Williams
Darrin sits down with mindset empowerment coach Tarik Williams for a powerful conversation on burnout, resilience, and personal growth. The two discuss their shared experiences as legally blind African-American professionals and why mindset plays a critical role in overcoming adversity and…
more -
Good Debt vs Bad Debt: What You Need to Know Before You Borrow
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down the difference between good debt and bad debt, explaining how credit can be used as a tool to build wealth or become a financial burden. Learn how to make smarter borrowing decisions and leverage debt the right way. About Darrin Harvey Darrin Harvey, aka the...
-
Are Credit Scores a Form of Economic Control? Understanding the System
Darrin, Maurice Shabazz, and Cash “The Motivator” Wilson discuss whether credit scores are a form of economic control. They break down how lenders evaluate borrowers, why some loans are easier to obtain, and how financial literacy and discipline can help you navigate the system. About Darrin…
more -
Side Hustles You Can Start for Under $500 (And How to Use AI to Scale Them)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down side hustles you can start for under $500 and how to use AI to build and scale them. From content creation to consulting and marketing, this episode highlights practical business ideas and why now is the best time to start. About Darrin Harvey Darrin Harvey,...
-
What Happens After Financial Freedom? (The Truth About “F You Money”)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz continue their discussion on financial freedom by exploring what happens after you reach your financial freedom number. From “F You money” to giving back and building legacy, this episode focuses on how wealth can be used to create impact beyond yoursel About Darrin...
-
What Is Your Financial Freedom Number? (And How to Reach it)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down the concept of the financial freedom number — the amount of money you need so you no longer have to work. Learn how to calculate your number, why it matters, and the strategies you can use to reach financial independence. About Darrin Harvey Darrin Harvey…
more -
Speaking Financial Literacy Into the Next Generation (Black Student Summit Recap)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz reflect on their experience speaking at the Black Student Organization Summit at Pittsburg High School. They discuss student reactions, key lessons, and why teaching financial literacy early can create life-changing advantages for the next generation. About Darrin…
more -
How Banks Work (And How They Make Money Off You)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down how banks work and how they make money from their customers. From fees and lending to credit card partnerships and investing your deposits, this episode explains the hidden mechanics behind the banking system and how you can become more financially awar About...
-
Physical vs Digital Assets: What Actually Holds Value? | with Maurice Shabazz
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz debate the pros and cons of physical and digital assets. From real estate and tangible investments to cryptocurrency and digital businesses, the two financial experts break down how each asset type generates value and why diversification may be the smartest strategy for...
-
Why It’s So Expensive to Not Own Anything (The Hidden Cost of Renting Everything)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down why renting and subscription-based services can cost more than ownership over time. From housing to everyday services, they explore how the subscription economy works, why companies prefer recurring payments, and how building ownership can strengthen your...
-
How to Invest When You’re Broke (Yes, It’s Possible) | with Maurice Shabazz
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz break down how to start investing even if you feel broke. From investing as little as $50 a month using beginner-friendly platforms like Acorns to understanding compounding and building strong financial habits, this episode proves you don’t need a lot of money to start...
-
From Section 8 to Homeowner: How Keashia Renee Bought Her First Property in California
Darrin sits down with therapist and friend Keashia Renee to discuss how she went from Section 8 housing to becoming a homeowner in California as a single African-American mother. They break down mindset, qualification, saving strategies, and why homeownership in the Bay Area is possible with...
-
Financial Boundaries: Why Lending Money Can Cost You More Than Cash (with Maurice Shabazz)
Darrin and Maurice Shabazz dive into the topic of financial boundaries and why lending money to friends and family can permanently change relationships. Drawing from personal experiences, they break down borrower psychology, repayment dynamics, and practical strategies for protecting your…
more -
Money, Marriage, and Independence: A Candid Conversation with Kenya Aissa
Darrin welcomes back Kenya Aissa for a candid and insightful conversation about her new book, Independent Wife: Reclaiming Your Power, Passion, and Pleasure. The two discuss why many married women feel unfulfilled, the real reasons behind divorce beyond finances and infidelity, and how money,...
-
Building Black Economic Power: Community, Entrepreneurship, and Collective Support (with Wesley Alexander & Maurice Shabazz)
Darrin is joined by Maurice Shabazz and Wesley Alexander, owner of CoBiz Richmond, for a powerful discussion on Black entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and community responsibility. The three explore why safe spaces for education and business matter, the challenges facing the Black…
more -
From Faith to Finance: Entrepreneurship, Life Insurance, and Investing with Will Brown
Darrin sits down with insurance broker and author Will Brown for a wide-ranging conversation on entrepreneurship, faith, finance, and investing. The two discuss Will’s journey from the legal industry to writing Christian-inspired literature, his path into life insuranc About Darrin Harvey Darrin...
-
Entrepreneurial Mindset, Friendship, and Navigating Business with a Disability (with Stephanie Riddell)
Darrin sits down with his “adopted” sister and close friend Stephanie Riddell for a personal and insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience. Drawing from their shared experience in the legal sales industry, the two discuss entrepreneurial habits, navigating business...
-
Real vs. Fake Millionaires: The Truth About Wealth, Mindset, and Financial Freedom (with Maurice Shabazz)
Darrin is joined by financial expert Maurice Shabazz for a powerful conversation on real versus fake millionaires. The two break down how social media has distorted perceptions of wealth, the differences in mindset and behavior between real and performative wealth, and what it actually takes to...
-
The Realities of Entrepreneurship: Challenges, Mindset, and Wearing Every Hat (with Maurice Shabazz)
Darrin welcomes back Maurice Shabazz for an honest conversation about the real challenges of entrepreneurship. The two break down the differences between working a W-2 job and owning a business, the many hats solo entrepreneurs must wear, the importance of building systems, and the mental and...
-
Credit, Investing, and Building Wealth: A Conversation with Jimmy Rios
Darrin sits down with Colombian American entrepreneur and investor Jimmy Rios for an in-depth conversation on debt, credit, investing, and building wealth. The two discuss personal and business credit, market investing, “albatross” investments, and how mindset, strategy, and representation play a...
-
AI, Jobs, and the Future of the Economy: How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Everything (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this eye-opening episode, Darrin sits down once again with financial expert Maurice Shabazz to break down one of the biggest economic shifts of our lifetime: the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on employment, wealth, and the overall economy. The two dive deep into how AI is...
-
Investing for Beginners (Part 2): Strategies, Risk, and Smart Decision-Making (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this continuation of their beginner investing series, Darrin and financial expert Maurice Shabazz dive deeper into the strategies and decision-making skills every new investor needs to build long-term wealth. Picking up exactly where the previous episode left off, the two break down…
more -
Investing for Beginners: A Simple Guide to Getting Started (with Maurice Shabazz)
Episode Summary In this episode, Darrin reunites with financial expert Maurice Shabazz to create a clear, simple, and realistic beginner’s guide to investing in 2025. The two break down exactly what someone needs to have in place before they start investing, including financial stability, an...
-
A Guide to Navigating Disability: Preparing, Adapting, and Re-Entering Life After Becoming Disabled*
In this deeply personal and informative solo episode, Darrin offers a practical, compassionate A-to-Z guide for navigating the journey of becoming disabled — whether you’re preparing for the possibility, recently disabled, or supporting someone who is. Drawing directly from his own real-life...
-
The Disability Tax: Financial Realities of Living with a Disability (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this deeply personal and informative episode, Darrin sits down with financial expert Maurice Shabazz to unpack the concept of “The Disability Tax” — the financial burden that often falls on individuals living with disabilities. Drawing from his own experiences as a legally blind financial…
more -
Building Business Credit: How to Fund and Grow Your Business (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this episode, Darrin teams up once again with financial expert Maurice Shabazz for a full breakdown of business credit — what it is, how it works, and how to build it from the ground up. The two explain how business credit differs from personal credit, why it’s so important for entrepreneurs,...
-
Mastering Credit: How to Understand, Improve, and Repair Your Credit (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this episode, Darrin teams up once again with financial expert Maurice Shabazz for a deep dive into one of the most important topics in personal finance — credit. Together, the two break down how credit works, what the credit system looks at, and why your score matters more than most people...
-
Habits That Stand the Test of Time: More Money Talk with Liam Foley
In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Darrin welcomes back Liam Foley for another thoughtful discussion about financial habits, life lessons, and generational perspectives on money. Liam asks Darrin what he would teach in schools if financial education were required, sparking a meaningful...
-
Money Habits That Keep People Broke (with Maurice Shabazz)
In this honest and eye-opening discussion, Darrin welcomes back financial expert Maurice Shabazz to talk about the money habits that keep people broke. Drawing from their years of experience coaching clients, the two break down the behaviors, beliefs, and bad habits that sabotage financial…
more -
Money Habits the Financially Free Practice: Mindsets & Habits that Build Wealth
In this inspiring solo episode, Darrin explores the mindset-based money habits that financially free people live by. True financial freedom isn’t just about numbers — it’s about how you think, act, and stay consistent with your goals. Darrin breaks down powerful habits like staying patient, being...
-
Preparing for Long-Term Senior Care with Jocelyn Jasper
In this episode, Darrin is joined by Jocelyn Jasper, a senior placement specialist and agency owner, to discuss the critical topic of preparing yourself and your loved ones for long-term senior care. Jocelyn shares her personal journey as a caregiver — including caring for her grandmother and…
more -
Credit Repair with Maurice Shabazz: Lessons, Mindset, and Best Practices
In this powerful episode, Darrin is joined by Maurice Shabazz, a personal and business financial expert with over 20 years of experience. Maurice shares his journey in personal finance and business while offering practical advice on credit repair, financial resilience, and mindset. Maurice…
more -
Clicks, Clout & Content: The Truth Behind Social Media Influence
In this conversation-style episode, Darrin is joined once again by longtime friend Liam for an honest, insightful, and funny discussion about the monetization of content and the rise of social media as a career path. Using examples from music, movies, TV, and influencer culture, the two break…
more -
Living With a Disability and Finding Financial Strength
n this deeply personal solo episode, Darrin opens up about his journey with glaucoma and the impact of vision loss on both his life and his finances. He shares the story of how he first discovered his condition, the challenges that came with learning to navigate life with a disability, and the…
more -
Is College Still Worth It? The Truth About Student Loans & ROI
In this solo episode, Darrin takes a clear-eyed look at one of the biggest financial questions facing students and families today: “Is college actually worth the cost?” Speaking from his own college experience, student loan journey, and professional financial planning lens, Darrin explores the…
more -
Real Money Talk with Liam: Money, Mindset & Making Progress
In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Darrin sits down with his longtime friend Liam for an open, real-world discussion on money, mindset, and the struggle to find financial stability in today’s world. Liam, who is not a financial expert, represents the average working adult—navigating...
-
Should You Stay in California or Move Out? Pros, Cons, and Perspectives
In this solo discussion episode, Darrin dives into the question many Californians are asking: Should I stay in California, or should I move out? He explores the pros and cons of both staying and leaving, shares relevant statistics about cost of living, housing, and opportunities, and offers his…
more -
Business Lessons I’ve Learned: Advice for New Entrepreneurs
In this solo episode, Darrin shares general business advice drawn from his own experiences as an entrepreneur and consultant. From the importance of mindset and strategy to lessons about pricing and managing expectations, this episode offers practical guidance for anyone starting out in business....
About this show
Want to get out of debt, build stronger credit, and make smarter money moves?
Better money starts with a better financial state of mind.
Financial State of Minds with Darrin Harvey, the Money Counselor™, helps listeners rethink how they use money, credit, cash flow, and capital to create more stability, more options, and more opportunity.
From rebuilding personal credit and escaping the debt cycle to understanding business credit, getting funding, securing loans, saving smarter, investing with more awareness, and making money work with more strategy, each episode turns complex financial topics into clear guidance people can put to work immediately.
Through solo episodes, expert interviews, real life money conversations, and listener Q&A, Darrin uses his perspective as a financial coach, business advisor, keynote speaker, founder, and member of the visually impaired community to make financial education more accessib
Hosted by
Darrin Harvey
Categories