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Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness
The popular host of the Money Moves podcast and youngest person ever to trade on the New York Stock Exchange provides winning tips for women to help them shift their financial mindset, become confident about their money, set them on a path to financial security, and live their best lives.
“Seventy three percent of Americans ranked their finances as the number one cause of stress in their lives. But financial wellness can have a positive effect on your entire life. Not only when it comes to money and finances, but the quality and ease of how you live. Financial wellness means freedom for your body and freedom for your mind. Financial stress can also cause the breakdown of relationships. But it doesn’t have to be that way.”—Lauren Simmons
In 2017, when she was only twenty-two, Lauren Simmons became the youngest full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange, and the second African American woman in the Exchange's 228-year history to hold such a position. Driven by a passion for empowering women, Millennials, Gen Zs, and minorities to become more financially savvy, she now shares her experience and knowledge in this savvy financial guide.
Simmons brings a fresh perspective to personal she is a young African American woman with an understanding of how to increase wealth and an awareness of generational and cultural barriers—such an income inequity—that can hold people back from taking financial risks. In her warm, down-to-earth voice, Simmons makes confusing topics easy to understand. She breaks down the pros and cons of buying stocks and Treasuries, explains how to maximize your 401K opportunities even in challenging economic times, advises how to grapple with student loans, and helps you break family cycles when dealing (or not) with debt.
Simmons helps a new generation and others who have been overlooked learn how to take care of their money—so their money can take care of them, today and tomorrow.
“Seventy three percent of Americans ranked their finances as the number one cause of stress in their lives. But financial wellness can have a positive effect on your entire life. Not only when it comes to money and finances, but the quality and ease of how you live. Financial wellness means freedom for your body and freedom for your mind. Financial stress can also cause the breakdown of relationships. But it doesn’t have to be that way.”—Lauren Simmons
In 2017, when she was only twenty-two, Lauren Simmons became the youngest full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange, and the second African American woman in the Exchange's 228-year history to hold such a position. Driven by a passion for empowering women, Millennials, Gen Zs, and minorities to become more financially savvy, she now shares her experience and knowledge in this savvy financial guide.
Simmons brings a fresh perspective to personal she is a young African American woman with an understanding of how to increase wealth and an awareness of generational and cultural barriers—such an income inequity—that can hold people back from taking financial risks. In her warm, down-to-earth voice, Simmons makes confusing topics easy to understand. She breaks down the pros and cons of buying stocks and Treasuries, explains how to maximize your 401K opportunities even in challenging economic times, advises how to grapple with student loans, and helps you break family cycles when dealing (or not) with debt.
Simmons helps a new generation and others who have been overlooked learn how to take care of their money—so their money can take care of them, today and tomorrow.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
28 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 12, 2024
3.5 🌟
I don't usually read finance books but was intrigued. It had some basic information for younger people which makes sense since Lauren herself is in her 20's.
I don't usually read finance books but was intrigued. It had some basic information for younger people which makes sense since Lauren herself is in her 20's.
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January 7, 2024I have mixed feelings about this book.
On one hand, it made the subject matter feel approachable and gave a lot of suggestions for things to reflect on as far as one’s relationship with the money. I felt more prepared and empowered to learn about money and try some experiments after reading it. I think I have always been held back by feeling intimidated and like I need to know everything.
On the other hand, the book was geared toward a younger person. The author seems like an interesting person and it was written conversationally, which I enjoyed, but I also didn’t think the subject matter was well organized or well balanced. For example, the chapter on investing felt much too short and basic, while the chapter on dating felt much too long. However this may simply reflect what I am more or less interested in
On one hand, it made the subject matter feel approachable and gave a lot of suggestions for things to reflect on as far as one’s relationship with the money. I felt more prepared and empowered to learn about money and try some experiments after reading it. I think I have always been held back by feeling intimidated and like I need to know everything.
On the other hand, the book was geared toward a younger person. The author seems like an interesting person and it was written conversationally, which I enjoyed, but I also didn’t think the subject matter was well organized or well balanced. For example, the chapter on investing felt much too short and basic, while the chapter on dating felt much too long. However this may simply reflect what I am more or less interested in
February 17, 2024
2.75! It’s probably a good read for someone who needs a complete intro to finance because it’s truly a 101 level book. A lot of her advice is around wellness with some finance sprinkled in, but the finance parts are pretty basic (e.g., only buy coffee out every other day, 50-30-20, pay off your debt). There were places where the audiobook repeated the exact same line that they did multiple takes of, but I blame that on her editor.
January 9, 2024
"Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness" by Lauren Simmons offers a practical and empowering roadmap for achieving financial well-being. The book stands out for its accessible advice and the author's commitment to demystifying financial concepts, making it a valuable resource for readers aiming to take control of their financial lives.
One commendable aspect of the book is Lauren Simmons' emphasis on providing practical guidance for financial wellness. The author breaks down complex financial topics into manageable and actionable steps, catering to readers at various levels of financial literacy. Simmons combines her expertise with relatable anecdotes, creating a guide that feels both informative and approachable.
Simmons's writing style is clear and engaging, ensuring that readers can easily grasp the financial principles discussed. The book's well-organized structure allows for a seamless flow of information, guiding readers through essential concepts such as budgeting, investing, and building financial resilience. Real-life examples and case studies enhance the practical applicability of the advice provided.
However, some readers may find the book lacking in more advanced financial strategies or in-depth analyses of certain investment options. While the book excels in providing foundational knowledge, those seeking a deeper dive into specific financial areas may need to supplement their reading with additional resources.
In conclusion, "Make Money Move" is a valuable guide for individuals looking to enhance their financial wellness. Lauren Simmons's commitment to demystifying financial concepts, combined with practical advice, makes the book an accessible and empowering resource. While more advanced financial topics could be explored in greater depth, the book's emphasis on foundational principles renders it a recommended read for anyone seeking to make informed and strategic money moves.
One commendable aspect of the book is Lauren Simmons' emphasis on providing practical guidance for financial wellness. The author breaks down complex financial topics into manageable and actionable steps, catering to readers at various levels of financial literacy. Simmons combines her expertise with relatable anecdotes, creating a guide that feels both informative and approachable.
Simmons's writing style is clear and engaging, ensuring that readers can easily grasp the financial principles discussed. The book's well-organized structure allows for a seamless flow of information, guiding readers through essential concepts such as budgeting, investing, and building financial resilience. Real-life examples and case studies enhance the practical applicability of the advice provided.
However, some readers may find the book lacking in more advanced financial strategies or in-depth analyses of certain investment options. While the book excels in providing foundational knowledge, those seeking a deeper dive into specific financial areas may need to supplement their reading with additional resources.
In conclusion, "Make Money Move" is a valuable guide for individuals looking to enhance their financial wellness. Lauren Simmons's commitment to demystifying financial concepts, combined with practical advice, makes the book an accessible and empowering resource. While more advanced financial topics could be explored in greater depth, the book's emphasis on foundational principles renders it a recommended read for anyone seeking to make informed and strategic money moves.
August 9, 2023
It sounds like "Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness" by Lauren Simmons is an insightful and practical resource for individuals seeking to improve their financial mindset, gain confidence in managing their money, and achieve greater financial security. The book appears to address a wide range of financial topics, from understanding and investing in stocks and Treasuries to maximizing retirement savings through 401K plans, managing student loans, and breaking the cycle of debt within families.
Lauren Simmons' unique perspective as the youngest female trader on the New York Stock Exchange and as an African American woman provides her with valuable insights into both financial strategies and the challenges that certain groups may face due to income inequality and other cultural barriers. Her goal of empowering women, Millennials, Gen Zs, and minorities to become financially savvy is evident in her approach to breaking down complex financial concepts into easily understandable language.
The book seems to focus not only on the technical aspects of money management but also on the broader implications of financial wellness for overall well-being. It highlights the significant impact that financial stress can have on various aspects of life, including relationships, and emphasizes the potential for financial wellness to bring about greater freedom and ease.
If you're looking for a guide that combines practical financial advice with a relatable and empathetic perspective, "Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness" by Lauren Simmons appears to be a valuable resource to consider. It seems to offer guidance on navigating the financial landscape while addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of money management, making it relevant for a wide range of readers seeking to improve their financial situations and live their best lives.
Lauren Simmons' unique perspective as the youngest female trader on the New York Stock Exchange and as an African American woman provides her with valuable insights into both financial strategies and the challenges that certain groups may face due to income inequality and other cultural barriers. Her goal of empowering women, Millennials, Gen Zs, and minorities to become financially savvy is evident in her approach to breaking down complex financial concepts into easily understandable language.
The book seems to focus not only on the technical aspects of money management but also on the broader implications of financial wellness for overall well-being. It highlights the significant impact that financial stress can have on various aspects of life, including relationships, and emphasizes the potential for financial wellness to bring about greater freedom and ease.
If you're looking for a guide that combines practical financial advice with a relatable and empathetic perspective, "Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness" by Lauren Simmons appears to be a valuable resource to consider. It seems to offer guidance on navigating the financial landscape while addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of money management, making it relevant for a wide range of readers seeking to improve their financial situations and live their best lives.
May 10, 2025
My mom recommended this book and it wasn't a good recommendation for me as I already have a solid grasp of basic financial literacy. I will try to not let that cloud my judgement too much. I question who this book was intended for. It frames itself as being for the average person who doesn't know very much about finance but for most of the author's adult life she has seemingly not had a normal financial situation. She presents anectdotes of her touring clearly large and expensive houses, she mentions that her annual income is approaching one million dollars, most people cannot relate to this nor will they ever be able to achieve it. I would be much more willing to trust a book written by an average financially stable adult on basic finance. I think the author would be much better suited to writing a more specific book in her area of expertise.
The merits I think this book has is that this author is willing to speak about issues of equity and this book is not soulless. She clearly cares about giving back and supporting her loved ones. She has a passion for uplifting others. This was refreshing to see in a finance book.
The merits I think this book has is that this author is willing to speak about issues of equity and this book is not soulless. She clearly cares about giving back and supporting her loved ones. She has a passion for uplifting others. This was refreshing to see in a finance book.
November 16, 2023
In this book Lauren Simmons gives us insight into her world as a former trader on the Stock Exchange Floor. With this previous experience, she talks of financial freedom.
Topics that stuck out to me
-Learn to Spend Intentionally
- A 5 Year Plan
- Financial Literary
- Be open to talk about money
- Diversify your Savings
- Spend Intentionally
- Spending Power
- Own it
- This topic had me laughing a few times.
- This is a topic everyone needs to read
about. Because common sense ain't
common.
I appreciated the broad range of topics. Every topic may not apply to where you currently are in life. But it's also great to be knowledgeable for when that point in your life may occur.
I like how this book was written. It's provides knowledge but doesn't feel instructional. This book feels like a mentor or friend is giving advice.
I highly recommend.
Topics that stuck out to me
-Learn to Spend Intentionally
- A 5 Year Plan
- Financial Literary
- Be open to talk about money
- Diversify your Savings
- Spend Intentionally
- Spending Power
- Own it
- This topic had me laughing a few times.
- This is a topic everyone needs to read
about. Because common sense ain't
common.
I appreciated the broad range of topics. Every topic may not apply to where you currently are in life. But it's also great to be knowledgeable for when that point in your life may occur.
I like how this book was written. It's provides knowledge but doesn't feel instructional. This book feels like a mentor or friend is giving advice.
I highly recommend.
November 21, 2023
Favorite quote: “You have the ability to change your life circumstances. Your emotions are valid, but you can’t consistently have that “woe is me” mentality turned on. It won’t serve youl It isn’t coming from a place of power.”
"It's really important to know on a daily basis exactly where your money is." That's what successful YNABers do: They make sure their budget agrees with their bank account, ideally each day.
I liked her idea of the 5 year plan and tracking it like an Agile Board. Her examples of real and attainable finance goals are naturally in the YNAB budget system.
One goal example was to start a high earning savings account. She describes that as something above the current inflation rate. Her ideas about retirement don’t lean towards government programs like 401K/ IRA/ Roth IRA due to costly fees. That’s different than other finance books that I've read.
And that is why you read widely and choose the ideas that fit you.
"It's really important to know on a daily basis exactly where your money is." That's what successful YNABers do: They make sure their budget agrees with their bank account, ideally each day.
I liked her idea of the 5 year plan and tracking it like an Agile Board. Her examples of real and attainable finance goals are naturally in the YNAB budget system.
One goal example was to start a high earning savings account. She describes that as something above the current inflation rate. Her ideas about retirement don’t lean towards government programs like 401K/ IRA/ Roth IRA due to costly fees. That’s different than other finance books that I've read.
And that is why you read widely and choose the ideas that fit you.
December 10, 2023
From the book, I learned that the difference in investing between white, black, and Latino citizens in the United States is very significant. A similar situation exists between women and men. The basic stock market instruments available for investment are described. The book is quite inspiring. It doesn't offer groundbreaking insights, but it might be useful for someone taking their first steps in investing. I was particularly intrigued by the author's materialistic approach to the guys she went on dates with. Supposedly, attitudes toward debt are the main reason for the breakdown of relationships and marriages in the USA. The author stopped dating a guy because, based on his income, he didn't have specific savings. She said that if he ever accumulates enough, he should contact her in the future.
January 8, 2025
I was intrigued by her story, but this book is truly finances 101, and even probably below that bar.
The book was filled with far to much talk about manifestation, relying on the universe, etc and completely void of any real tips or advice. The chapter on home buying is seriously lacking in any practical tips it was actually sad to read.
I painfully finished this book, hoping it would get better. It did not. She should have just written an autobiography instead of a finance book. This book does not actually give any tips on “making money move.”
The book was filled with far to much talk about manifestation, relying on the universe, etc and completely void of any real tips or advice. The chapter on home buying is seriously lacking in any practical tips it was actually sad to read.
I painfully finished this book, hoping it would get better. It did not. She should have just written an autobiography instead of a finance book. This book does not actually give any tips on “making money move.”
August 22, 2025
This book is great for someone who’s getting into finance and wants to start getting a better understanding. This is definitely geared towards someone in the young 20s because it does touch on all aspects. From investing, home loans, credit cards, debt, financial literacy and entrepreneur tips she truly gives a good overview.
I found it a bit hard to read at times only because I was educated on a lot of these subjects so it seemed repetitive. But her point of view and examples is what kept me engaged.
I found it a bit hard to read at times only because I was educated on a lot of these subjects so it seemed repetitive. But her point of view and examples is what kept me engaged.
March 14, 2024
I was hoping that this book would really help me learn to make my money move, but what I found was a basic foundational book with more definitions and her life experiences, lacking the necessary steps that beginners need to start this journey. Some of her views are not aligned with most lived experience- I personally don’t know anyone saving 80% of their incomes.
November 25, 2024
A lot of knowledge about finances in this book. Some things I never thought about or feel like I'm not there yet, but definitely need to consider a career change because I'm not making enough money and I'm not going to accomplish what I need to with where I currently am (a lot of self reflection)
January 4, 2025
This is a book that should be in a high school class or freshman college course. She had tons of great information for someone about to move or having just moved out on their own.
She had a lot of great information for teens & people in their 20's.
She had a lot of great information for teens & people in their 20's.
May 6, 2025
I think Lauren Simmons is a very, very inspiring person. I don’t think working as a trader for a year on the NYSE floor makes someone a good financial expert. While this book made thinking about personal finance approachable it didn’t provide actionable smart goals to work toward or set.
February 6, 2024
This is a decent book, leaning more toward the 101 on learning about "money moves."
February 19, 2024
Good foundational information and solid financial advice.
March 20, 2024
Really good and useful information. I would highly recommend this book for high school seniors and college students.
April 13, 2024
It was good to hear a little bit of her career story. The financial tips were good but it was something I already knew. Nothing that “moved” me really. It was a good reminder though.
May 27, 2024
Perfect for a young adult - early 20’s
July 3, 2024
I found two chapters to be informative, but the rest was meh.
October 13, 2024
I loved it! I find it very impovering to hear unpolished stories of real woman and have a glimpse in their world perception. A lot of great advices, that will inspire you to dig deeper.
October 16, 2024
I mean this book might be good for the beginner but I would not recommend for seasoned person.
January 26, 2025
Can’t wait to apply some of the things I learned. Very easy to understand,
July 8, 2025
Good for beginners.
July 25, 2025
3.5 - more of a self-help book than i thought it would be. it was good and some parts were helpful and resonated w me, but it was not what i expected.
March 26, 2024
Saw this book at the library. Always trying to be better with money and be a life long learner. Lauren is a whiz with finance and easily shares her knowledge in simple easy steps. I am going to look at her YouTube and her Podcast Money Moves.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews