Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Haizel Mcintyre. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Haizel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

Reflecting on my journey, I vividly recall a moment at my dining table, immersed in my business work, when my son walked in. I shared my latest accomplishment with him, my excitement palpable. He congratulated me and then said, “Of course you did, ma. You should have started doing this a long time ago.” His words hit me like a ton of bricks, not in a negative way, but as a moment of deep reflection. It wasn’t the first time I’d heard something similar.

Do I wish I had started my business sooner? Absolutely. Do I regret not starting earlier? Not really, and here’s why. Financial education is timeless, yet its significance has evolved over the years. Had I started a decade or so ago, I might not have been emotionally or professionally prepared to handle the challenges of running a business while juggling a full-time job, pursuing my master’s degree, and raising three school-aged children.

Back then, my personal growth was still unfolding. Although I didn’t have my own business, I engaged in several multi-level marketing ventures. These experiences were invaluable, offering a gateway into entrepreneurship. I learned crucial lessons in sales, leadership, organization, and operations. Each opportunity enriched my skill set and, more importantly, bolstered my confidence.

I do ponder where my business and I might be today had I started earlier. However, I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason and in its own time. While starting sooner might have meant being my own boss earlier or achieving financial milestones sooner, I’m thrilled about the present and the future. I’m excited about what my business holds for me now and the legacy I aspire to create.

Haizel, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hello! I’m Haizel, the founder of Making Money Movers NYC. Growing up in poverty in the Bronx, I didn’t learn about finances until my early 20s. This personal experience has been a significant driving force behind my passion for empowering underserved communities, particularly in the Bronx and the tri-state area. As a first-generation Dominican American, my journey into the financial education industry is deeply rooted in my background as a licensed Social Worker and Certified Financial Social Worker. This unique combination allows me to address not only the financial aspects but also the emotional and psychological elements that influence financial decisions.

At Making Money Movers NYC, we offer a range of services designed to enhance financial literacy and wellness. Our offerings include financial education programs, personal consultations, workshops, and individual support. We provide live presentations, online learning options, and a wealth of resources aimed at fostering financial empowerment. Our workshops cover essential topics like financial psychology, budgeting, and debt management, and are tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients.

What sets us apart is our holistic approach. We don’t just focus on numbers; we delve into the emotional and social factors that impact financial behavior. This approach ensures that our clients not only learn about finances but also develop a healthier relationship with money.

I’m incredibly proud of the partnerships we’ve built with organizations like DreamYard, Mercy University, and Dutchess Community College. These collaborations enable us to reach a broader audience and make a meaningful impact. Our mission is to empower youth and young adults with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve financial independence and success.

For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that Making Money Movers NYC is committed to creating culturally relevant and impactful financial education. We’re continuously developing new programs, like our teen financial planner and the ‘Teach Parents, Teach Kids’ initiative, to ensure that our offerings remain relevant and effective.

Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting legacy of financial empowerment and to inspire others to take control of their financial futures. Thank you for taking the time to learn about us, and I look forward to the opportunity to work together in building a financially literate community.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

In the early stages of developing Making Money Movers NYC, my initial vision was to focus on financial education for children as young as five, extending up to age 25. I believed that instilling financial literacy from a young age would create a strong foundation for future financial success. However, as I began implementing the programs, I realized that the needs and engagement levels varied significantly across such a broad age range.

Through feedback and observation, it became clear that focusing on individuals starting at age 14 and up to young adults would allow for more impactful and tailored educational experiences. This pivot was not just a strategic decision but a necessary one to ensure that the content was relevant and engaging for the audience. While our company still has the capability to serve the initial target age group, this shift allows for increased retention and the potential for transgenerational impact.

By concentrating on this age group, we could address specific challenges they face, such as preparing for college, managing part-time job earnings, and understanding credit. The decision to pivot was a turning point for Making Money Movers NYC. It reinforced the importance of adaptability and listening to the needs of our audience. Today, our programs are more effective and impactful, empowering young individuals with the financial knowledge they need to navigate their futures confidently.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

A pivotal story of resilience in my journey began in 2019 when I initially started my business. I was filled with enthusiasm and a strong desire to make a difference in financial education. However, when the pandemic hit, it significantly reduced my ability to grow and sustain the business. The challenges were immense, and I found myself at a crossroads, questioning the future of my entrepreneurial dreams.

During this challenging time, a colleague encouraged me to apply for a business incubator program. I was accepted, and it became a transformative experience. The program provided me with the tools, mentorship, and community support I needed to reignite my entrepreneurial ambition. It was through this program that I gained the clarity and confidence to dissolve my previous business, which was facing tax ramifications, and establish the one that exists today—Making Money Movers NYC.

This journey taught me the importance of adaptability and the power of seeking support when needed. It reinforced my belief that setbacks can be stepping stones to greater success. Today, I’m proud of the resilience that led to the creation of a business that empowers others and continues to grow despite the challenges.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://makingmoneymovers.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/making.money.movers
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Making-Money-Movers/61556767661187/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makingmoneymovers

Image Credits

Hay Dinero image is from WNET website