📉 Recession-Proofing Your Money & Pharrell’s $1M Grant Program

Hey Glow Getter,

They say history repeats itself—and when it comes to the economy, we’re seeing some full-circle moments. Tariff rates are the highest they’ve been in almost a hundred years, and “recession nails” is the new trendy mani-pedi look. Plus, Pharrell Williams is putting serious money behind historically underfunded entrepreneurs. That’s the kind of full-circle I like to see. ✨ So, let’s get into this week’s edition of The Financial Glow-Up because protecting your paper is the new power move…

📦 Tariffs at a 90-Year High

Despite recent trade deals with the UK and China, the U.S. tariff rate is now the highest it’s been since the Great Depression, according to a new Yale Budget Lab report. Higher tariffs can mean more expensive goods and ripple effects on your wallet. Read all about it here.

What to do: This is a good time to review your budget, watch your discretionary spending, and consider buying in bulk (hey, Costco!) to save where you can. Click the video below to get started.

💼 Recession-Proof Your Money

If “uncertainty” feels like the word of the year, you’re not alone, hunni. But please don’t panic (who has time for that?)! Experts say there are some smart ways to protect your finances during a downturn that won’t stress a sistah out. Here are some ideas:

• Build a cash cushion: aim for 3–6 months of expenses in savings.

• Cut high-interest debt: tackle credit cards and avoid unnecessary loans.

• Boost your skills: now’s a great time to take a course or certification.

And my personal money-saving favorites are: “recession nails” and “recession hair,” which is just code for not going to the shop all the time. Remember family, every recession has winners. Let’s play our cards right and not get played. Get detailed info on how to recession-proof your money here.

🎤 Pharrell William’s $1 Million Grant Program

Music Artist Pharrell Williams has just launched the 2025 cycle of his Black Ambition grant program. The prize competition will grant one grand-prize winner $1 million to spur the growth of a small business.

“With Black Ambition, the goal is to help strengthen the pipeline of talented entrepreneurs and close the opportunity and wealth gaps derived from limited access to capital and resources,” said the hip-hop superstar and philanthropist.

Learn more and apply here.

🏠 House Hunters: Aspirational!

Don’t you just love HGTV’s House Hunters? My favorite version is when they go international. Well, this glow-up version is aspirational. Kanye famously said, “What ‘til I get my money right.” But I say: why wait to shop for your dream home? Why not see what’s out there and make a goal to work towards that. Here’s a fine property for sale by Rod Watson, luxury realtor out of Los Angeles, listed at $2,995,000. Any takers?

 💌 Share the Glow-Up

Feeling financially fit after reading this? Well, the best workouts are done in groups, so forward this newsletter to a friend who needs a financial glow-up.

You’re not just sharing a newsletter—you’re spreading a wealth of knowledge.

Keep glowing and growing💫,
Markette Sheppard
Editor, The Financial Glow-Up | Founder, Glow Stream TV

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