Money Talks is an xoNecole series where we talk candidly to real women about how they spend money, their relationship with money, and how they spend it.
Maryland-bred success coach Nathalie Nicole Smith is no stranger to being successful. In 2013, Nathalie Nicole was recognized as one of Forbes' "Top 30 Under 30" for her work in development of her Plush brand and now she is a multi-millionaire at the age of 32. The young mogul is also the author of best-selling book Becoming a Brand and founder of Women Who Boss, a 501c3 organization that helps women walk into their real purpose amidst their pain.
Nathalie is truly educating the next group of Black female leaders through financial and spiritual means and showing no signs of slowing up. With the development of an international podcast, an apparel line, a second book, and a million-dollar coaching program, it's clear that for her, elevating is a habit.
When it comes to her money, Nathalie shared a secret with us that a mentor once bestowed upon her. "I live by my money mantra, 'what to do with a dollar' that my mentor shared with me years ago," she said. She continued to break it down that for her money gets split up in seven ways: 15 percent to self, 20 percent money going up, 10 percent to tithes and offering, 25 percent to taxes, 20-25 percent household expenses, reinvesting 10-15 percent and saving 10 percent.
In this installment of "Money Talks", xoNecole spoke with the beauty and wellness CEO about treating herself to a 2020 Lambourghini, the bigger picture of wealth and success, and her unhealthiest money habits.
On her definitions of wealth and success:
"Wealth means freedom to me. Being able to do what you love without having to think about money. It's not about the actual items you can attain, it's about the stress that is taken off of you when you don't have to worry how something will get paid. Success is being able to achieve your highest level of goals and being able to create massive impact. What good is success if you can't help people? If you can't impact lives? That's the bigger picture."
EPI Media Group/Nathalie Nicole Smith
"Success is being able to achieve your highest level of goals and being able to create massive impact. What good is success if you can't help people? If you can't impact lives? That's the bigger picture."
On the lowest she’s ever felt when it came to her finances and how she overcame it:
"Running my salon and not being able to really function 100 percent due to lack of stable liquid income [is the lowest I've ever felt]. At the time I was a recent college graduate and wanted to be an entrepreneur. I did not want to join the corporate world, so I hustled to make ends meet. I sold hair, did bottle service, etc. to make it work. I joined direct sales to be able to have liquid income to invest back into my businesses. I was actually not a fan of the direct sales industry, but when I met Coach Stormy Wellington and was introduced to Total Life Changes, I just knew this was what I needed. This was the vehicle I was looking for to change my future."
On her biggest splurge to date:
"[My] 2020 Lamborghini. And it was such a crazy experience. In one breath, I was so excited because it was definitely something I wanted, but in the next breath I had a few feelings of, 'It's too much, I don't need it, etc.' But I am extremely thankful for my circle that kept reminding me that I worked hard for it and I deserved it."
On whether she’s a spender or a saver:
"[I'm] a saver but I reward myself when I hit goals. You have to enjoy yourself and treat yourself sometimes. It keeps you hungry and makes you keep pushing yourself and working hard. Remembering the days I didn't have any [money] helped me learn how to save. It was a process though. I had to continue to grow and mature with my spending habits as well. There were definitely those times where if I made $5,000 a month I was spending $5,005!"
On the importance of investing:
"Investing is important. I just recently got into real estate. I also believe in investing in yourself and your team that helps you make money. I'm currently looking into acquiring two more properties by the end of 2020. Real estate is the game at the next level."
On her savings goals and what retirement looks like to her:
"My savings goal is $35 million minimum by 35 years old. Retirement is going to be amazing! Of course everything I have will already be paid off so expenses will be minimal. My family will be secure and I will be able to save the majority of the residual income that would come in from my business."
On her budgeting must-haves:
"Basic necessities - I need a nice environment to live in that allows me to create. My peace is essential to my ability to work and lead my team effectively. I enjoy my freedom and moving around as I desire. My budget must be able to cover those basics."
On her intentions behind multiple streams of revenue:
"My business structure is under a C Corp holding company. I have three main legs of business: direct sales, the Women Who Boss Network nonprofit, and the Plush rx Maryland location and online [division]. I always make sure I am doing income-producing activity to ensure productivity. Every move, every decision must be intentional and influential. Even things that may seem like 'fun' or 'relaxing' still has the underlying purpose of motivating my team. If they see me in a position they want to emulate, guess what? They are going to work hard to get it themselves, generating their own income-producing activity and keeping the ball moving.
"You never want to be in a predicament that you are stuck. You want to focus on one stream until you win big. After you win big, diversify so you can make that money work for you. For example, once I was really able to win in TLC, I was able to put focus back into Plush Rx and Women Who Boss. Now all wheels are generating income and adding to the bottom line."
EPI Media Group/Nathalie Nicole Smith
"I have three main legs of business: direct sales, the Women Who Boss Network nonprofit, and the Plush rx Maryland location and online [division]. I always make sure I am doing income-producing activity to ensure productivity. Every move, every decision must be intentional and influential. Even things that may seem like 'fun' or 'relaxing' still has the underlying purpose of motivating my team. If they see me in a position they want to emulate, guess what? They are going to work hard to get it themselves, generating their own income-producing activity and keeping the ball moving."
On unhealthy money habits and mindsets:
"Savings was a big thing I had to learn. Every dollar is not supposed to be spent. I had to also learn how to pay myself a set percentage to ensure that I was able to enjoy the fruits of my labor. I started to see my savings accumulate. I started to do some of the things I had always desired because money wasn't an issue. I also began to see my team grow and their personal income skyrocket. That is the major key. Helping others win too."
On the craziest thing she’s ever done for money:
"I was in the bottle service industry for 10 years. Clubs, late nights, fast life and faster money. It was a great learning experience and I met some powerful business associates along the way. I made a lot of money, but ultimately it was in a very toxic environment that I needed to break away from."
On the worst money-related decision she’s ever made:
"I opened myself up to a partnership with a friend that wasn't in alignment or equally yoked with my goals. I believe it's a mistake we are all destined to take as we grow and learn how to make better business and financial decisions. You're so excited about your success and you want other people to be successful also. However, everyone is not meant for you to work with."
On her budget breakdown:
How much do you spend on rent? "$3,600."
Eating out/ordering in? "$2,000."
Gas/car note? "$3,000."
Personal expenses? "I am very low maintenance. After I pay my bills, 15-20% goes to me to spend as I please. I treat myself sometimes, but I am very mindful of the amount I have allocated and I govern myself accordingly. It is extremely helpful and I teach my team how to manage their finances in the same manner. It ensures you are able to not only make and save money, but also enjoy some of it too."
For more information on Nathalie Nicole Smith, follow her on Instagram or visit her official website.
Featured image courtesy of Nathalie Nicole Smith
RELATED
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert