Dr. Nashira Kayode is a native to beautiful Southern California. She has spent the last 15 years as a professional in the mental health field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).  She obtained a PhD in Public Policy and Administration with a Specialization in Criminal Justice in 2017.  She is an expert in Forensic Social Work and has provided and directed mental health services throughout California in state, county, court, and private agencies. She created her agency, Kayode Psychotherapy and Consultation in 2017 (previously Funn Psychotherapy and Consultation).  In her personal time, she enjoys traveling with her husband and 3 children. She is an enthusiastic basketball mom, so most evenings are spent cheering on her boys in the gym.   In this eye-opening episode of Courage Unlocked, Michele sits down with Dr. Kayode to uncover the hidden realities of financial abuse, how it intersects with trauma, and the path to reclaiming financial freedom. This powerful conversation explores how financial abuse operates as a tool of control and how generational and personal trauma contribute to financial struggles.

Dr. Kayode brings a wealth of insight, drawing on years of experience as a mental health professional, and highlights the ways that financial abuse can manifest—both subtly and overtly—in relationships, families, and even societal systems. Together, Michele and Dr. Kayode address the importance of financial literacy, trauma healing, and building systems of empowerment to create lasting change.

Whether you’ve faced financial control or want to better understand how trauma impacts money behavior, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and hope for those seeking true financial freedom.

 

 

Takeaways

• Financial Abuse is About Control, Not Money

• Financial abuse can take many forms, from controlling access to resources to interfering with earning potential. It’s not about the amount of money—it’s about the control.

• Trauma Shapes Financial Behavior

• Past traumas, like poverty or attachment wounds, can lead to financial control as a protective mechanism. Understanding these patterns is key to breaking free.

• Recognizing Subtle Signs

• Financial abuse often begins subtly, with actions like offering to “help” pay off debts or creating double standards around spending. Identifying these early signs is crucial.

• Wealth Doesn’t Erase Abuse

• Even those with financial means can experience financial abuse. In fact, sudden loss of access to wealth can be destabilizing and deeply traumatic.

• Financial Literacy Empowers Change

• Educating yourself about finances and taking steps to regain control can pave the way to independence and healing.

• Breaking Generational Cycles

• Healing from financial abuse and trauma not only helps individuals but also prevents cycles of harm from being passed to future generations.

Take the first step toward financial freedom by tuning in and sharing this episode with someone who needs it. Use #CourageUnlocked to join the conversation!

 

Dr. Kayode’s Links

• Instagram

• Linkedin

• Website

• Dr. Kayode’s Books