Right on the money: 'Money Clues Lady' LaKenya Taylor leads others to financial empowerment

LaKenya Taylor of Cape Girardeau wears many hats. From giving advice as the "Money Clues Lady" at 6:30 a.m. five mornings a week on the CW to teaching classes from the book she wrote called "Improving Your Money Flow" at the Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center, Taylor works tirelessly to spread her knowledge of accounting and finances and empower others to take charge of their money.

__Flourish: How did you get into the accounting field?__

__LaKenya Taylor:__ I had it rough in my early 20s and realized I needed to make a change, as I wanted to become an accountant and knew if I could not handle my money, who would want me to handle their money? I had a dream to be an accountant since I was 16, so I took my career seriously. I began to educate myself about money and, of course, finished my education and have been in the accounting field for 13 years and a financial improvement coach for six years.

__Flourish: Why did you decide to write a book?__

__Taylor:__ The book came from my desire to want to help people understand money and overcome their financial barriers. My book is called "Improving Your Money Flow." I wrote the book in 2014 before beginning a class at the Cape Career and Technology Center, which I currently teach through the spring and fall semesters. I used the book as a textbook for my class, but now want to make it available to everyone.

LaKenya TaylorFred Lynch

__Flourish: You have been heavily involved with community outreach and financial education. What has been your biggest push to teach the free workshops at the library, Options for Women, Mending Hearts and the Family Counseling Center in Cape Girardeau?__

__Taylor:__ My motivation to teach free workshops is from my strong desire to empower people to be in control of their financial future. Many allow money to dictate to them instead of them doing the dictating. Also, I wanted to make sure anyone who wanted to attend did not have to worry about paying for it. I have taught more than 30 classes.

The classes I taught at Mending Hearts and the Family Counseling Center were in collaboration with the Cape Zonta Club, of which I am a member. I love sharing with the women, as I can relate to many of their financial situations; this helps open up dialogue.

__Flourish: How did you become the "Money Clues Lady" on the Heartland CW, and how do you think that program benefits the community?__

__Taylor:__ This is such a fun question because I enjoy being the Money Clues Lady. It all began when my husband started a TV show call "Faith Focus" in July 2015. We thought about what could be added to the show, and since I already had a Money Clues group on Facebook, that became the idea. We thought it best that I be called "The Money Clues Lady." I love it, and those who watch the show each day at 6:30 a.m. love it as well.

The show in general is powerful, and the "Money Clues" piece adds a unique element that teaches people the simple concepts of money. I have received comments from women saying they have learned a lot about money by watching "Money Clues."

__Flourish: Who have been your biggest role models throughout your career?__

__Taylor:__ This is a tough question because I've had so many role models, but I would have to say my husband, Adrian Taylor Jr., who is a pastor, author, leader and much more, has motivated me to do what is in my heart, to not take "no" for an answer, share "Money Clues" on TV, to publish my books and to never stop. Also, Carol Craigie, who is a certified financial planner, has been great encouragement and has challenged me to strive for more. I am thankful to have these two in my corner.

__Flourish: Why are you passionate about your work?__

__Taylor:__ I love people and I am enthusiastic about empowering kids and adults financially. I believe anyone can become a great money manager.

__Flourish: What do you enjoy most about your job?__

__Taylor:__ Seeing the enthusiasm once a person gains the proper knowledge about money, applies it and sees results. Also, when someone tells me they are teaching others about money after attending my class. This makes my day, knowing a person's life has changed.

__Flourish: What is your best financial advice for women in the area?__

__Taylor:__ You are the chief financial officer of your life; good or bad management depicts your financial future.