Real $tories Episode 64: Gail Perry-Mason

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Gail Perry-Mason is truly a legend in the financial literacy world, having inspired youth and countless others for nearly three decades. 

Her story is one of resilience and strength. Abandoned by her birth parents, Gail found the power of love and stability through her adopted family. She faced and overcame numerous challenges while navigating college and building a career in an industry that was often unwelcoming to a Black woman. 

Gail went on to found a financial literacy camp for teens and co-authored the bestselling book Girl, Make Your Money Grow! Her impact has caught the attention of luminaries such as Warren Buffett and Oprah Winfrey. Through her personal journey, Gail shares powerful lessons and pearls of financial wisdom that continue to uplift and empower. 

Key Moments

2:27 Gail reflects on her childhood and how this affected her outlook on life. 

5:44 She works hard to attend college but struggles with her finances in the process. 

8:52 She reaches out to GreenPath at a young age for guidance on better budget management. 

14:47 She takes on the difficult task of advancing in her career. 

25:03 Gail starts a money camp for teens that is now nearing its 30th anniversary. 

33:04 She shares some of the key takeaways from her bestselling book, Girl, Make Your Money Grow!, which was featured on Oprah’s Debt Diet. 

36:15 She considers money lessons she’s learned from her children. 

40:05 Gail shares her favorite pearls of wisdom.