Share your thoughts here! Money isn't just about numbers...it carries stories, beliefs, fears, and habits that are often passed down from generation to generation. In this powerful episode of the Mental Health Break Podcast, Dr. Nafisa Sekandari sits down with financial educator and entrepreneur Maria Renteria, CEO and Founder of Money Matters NOW, to explore the emotional side of money, how our upbringing shapes our financial decisions, and why so many high-achieving women continue to play small despite their incredible potential. Maria shares her remarkable journey from earning a six-figure income in the beauty industry to losing everything she thought was secure during the pandemic. That life-changing experience forced her to ask a question many of us avoid: What happens if your income stops? What she discovered transformed not only her finances, but her entire philosophy about wealth. Together, Dr. Sekandari and Maria explore how breaking generational cycles isn't just about healing emotional wounds—it's also about changing the financial beliefs we've inherited. Many of us grew up believing there wasn't enough, that money was scarce, or that success had to come through endless hard work. Those beliefs quietly influence our decisions long into adulthood. This conversation challenges listeners to replace a scarcity mindset with one of possibility. Maria explains why successful entrepreneurs and wealthy individuals often ask a different question than everyone else. Instead of asking, "Can I afford this?" they ask, "How can I afford this?" They learn to leverage opportunities, partnerships, financing, and other people's resources to invest in growth rather than allowing fear or lack to keep them stuck. Dr. Sekandari also dives into the psychology behind why so many ambitious women struggle to step into greater success. Even after earning degrees, building businesses, or advancing in their careers, many continue to battle imposter syndrome, fear of failure, fear of success, and unconscious self-sabotage. When we don't believe we're worthy of abundance, we often unconsciously reject the very opportunities we've been praying for. Maria shares practical strategies for building wealth intentionally—not just earning more money, but learning how to save, invest, protect assets, plan for retirement, create multiple streams of income, and leave a legacy for future generations. Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, parent, or someone who simply wants a healthier relationship with money, this episode will inspire you to think differently about wealth, purpose, and what's truly possible for your future. Because breaking generational curses isn't only about overcoming trauma—it's about creating new patterns of abundance that your children and future generations can inherit. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why your childhood experiences shape your money mindset How limiting beliefs around money are passed through generations The connection between anxiety, fear, and financial decision-making Why high-achieving women often struggle with imposter syndrome and self-sabotage How to shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset The difference between earning income and building wealth Why asking "How can I afford this?" creates more opportunities than "I can't afford it." How successful people responsibly leverage financing and other people's money to create long-term wealth Why financial education is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family Practical strategies to build financial confidence and create a lasting legacy Key Takeaways ✔ Your money mindset is learned—and it can be changed. ✔ Scarcity isn't always about your bank account; it's often about your beliefs. ✔ High-achieving women frequently minimize their potential because fear feels safer than visibility. ✔ Wealth isn't built by income alone—it's built through intentional financial strategy. ✔ Breaking generational curses means changing both emotional patterns and financial habits. ✔ Financial freedom creates more than wealth—it creates choices, security, and opportunities for future generations. Connect with Maria Renteria Learn more about Maria and Money Matters NOW by following her work and exploring her financial education resources. Connect with Dr. Nafisa Sekandari If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the Mental Health Break Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who is ready to break free from limiting beliefs and build a life of purpose, peace, and financial confidence. For more resources on overcoming anxiety, healing your mindset, and creating lasting transformation, visit DrSekandari.com Follow Dr. Sekandari on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_nafisa_sekandari Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.sekandari Watch Video Recording on Youtube To learn more about the Calm Within Coaching Program and schedule your FREE call visit https://www.drsekandari.com
