Yahweh’s Money®️: The Crossroads of Religion & Money

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, I am pulling back the curtain on the silent budget killers: financial distraction and emotional numbing. I share a vulnerable solo reflection on the "Heart’s Ledger," recapping the powerful lessons of Season 4 while addressing how we often use physical transactions to fill spiritual voids.

Together, we explore why we turn to "hustle culture”, retail therapy, and even food to soothe our souls during times of global and personal stress. By looking at our finances as a mirror of our hearts, we discuss how to stop spending to forget and start...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, I sit down with Michele Thorburn, a strategic Human Resources Director with over 20 years of global expertise. Together, we explore the "Caregiver’s Paradox"—the reality of immigrant caregivers who provide high-end, luxury care for clients while navigating their own financial, cultural, and socioeconomic hurdles.

From her upbringing in South America to her advocacy for minority and women's rights, Michele shares how her "global soul" informs her leadership at Assisting Hands. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder that honoring God in business means ensuring that those who care for our el...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re bridging the gap between divine inspiration and daily execution. I sat down with a decorated leader and a member of my own family, my brother Mitchell Tull II, to unpack why a strategic plan is a spiritual necessity for anyone looking to master their money and their calling.

With 24 years of service in the U.S. Army, Mitchell has navigated the unique military life cycle—from that first paycheck in basic training to the complexities of retirement. Together, we discuss how the discipline of a soldier translates to the di...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we are dismantling the uncomfortable "dirty" feeling many people of faith associate with selling. I sat down with 40-year sales veteran and master sales coach Thomas Ellis to explore how sales is not about pushing a product, but a noble extension of our faith and a direct form of serving our neighbor.

Together, we unpack how to shift your mindset from "selling" to "helping" and why standing firm on your pricing is actually an act of high-level stewardship. From overcoming the "slick" salesman stereotype to navigating the emotional landscape of bu...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re bridging the gap between divine inspiration and daily execution. I sat down with my marketing consultant and strategic powerhouse, Dawn Foster, owner of D. Foster Marketing, to unpack why a strategic plan is a spiritual necessity for anyone looking to master their money and their calling.

From overcoming the "safety" of the idea phase to understanding why business systems are an act of worship, we explore how to move past stagnant visions into tangible results. Together, we talk about the discipline required to stay obedient to God's downloads, the...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re talking real faith, real caregiving, and real stewardship. I sat down with my father, Reverend Mitchell D. Tull Sr., to unpack the emotional, financial, and spiritual weight of supporting aging parents — especially when money wasn’t openly discussed in their generation.

From navigating the traditions of the Silent Era to coordinating long-term care, inheritance, and family obligations, we explore how caregiving becomes a ministry of obedience, sacrifice, and honor. Together, we talk about the faith required to support elderly parents, the financial realities of long-term care, and the importan...

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Yahweh’s Money, Shay Cook sits down with one of the most influential voices in her life — her mother, Reverend Lana Tull — to explore what it truly means to raise righteous daughters rooted in faith, financial wisdom, and service.

Together, they unpack how biblical principles, intentional mentorship, and community engagement shape young women into confident, capable stewards of both their resources and their calling. From Proverbs 22:6 to real-world lessons learned through decades of service, this conversation reminds us that the greatest inheritance we can pass down is character — not cash.

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re preparing for a financial breakthrough in 2026 by exploring the habits, faith practices, and workplace support systems that create lasting financial wellness.

Host Shay Cook, CEO & Founder of Crusaders for Change®️, LLC, is joined by Client Success Manager Bethany Hawkins and Lead Financial Counselor Adriana Lopez for an honest panel conversation on stewardship, discipline, and healing our relationship with money.

Together, they discuss why financial freedom isn’t just about budgeting — it’s about awareness, preparation, mindset, and spiritual grounding. From practical debt strategies and saving habits to the growin...

In this episode, we’re talking real faith, real stewardship, and real maternal health equity. I sat down with Leah Hairston—Baltimore doula, CEO & Founder of Sweet Bee Services, social worker, maternal health advocate, and daughter of a pastor—to explore what it truly means to care for the temple God has given us by investing in support before, during, and after childbirth.

From navigating racial disparities in the medical system to understanding the emotional, mental, and financial toll of an unprepared birth experience, Leah breaks down why doula care isn’t a luxury. It’s wise stewardshi...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re talking real faith, real service, and real financial resilience. I sat down with James Green, a retired Coast Guard veteran turned real estate investor and spiritual practitioner, to explore what it truly means to let God—or your higher power—establish your steps over a 41-year career.

From navigating poverty mindsets to building generational wealth through real estate, James opens up about the spiritual, emotional, and financial lessons that shaped him into the man he is today. Through Buddhist principles, unwavering discipline, and a commitment to legacy, he shows ho...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re talking real faith, real care, and real financial empowerment. I sit down with Bethany Hawkins, Client Success Manager at Crusaders for Change®️, LLC, and Founder of Crackers in Soup, to explore the financial, emotional, and spiritual realities of caregivers and senior care workers—those who serve our most vulnerable every day.

From navigating personal financial struggles to supporting nurses and CNAs through life’s hardest seasons, Bethany shares what she’s learned about leadership, humility, and why true care begins with stability at home.

 Together, we unpack why inv...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re keeping it faithful, practical, and generational. Shay Cook sits down with longtime friend, veteran, and financial role model Angela Byrd for a powerful conversation on how to build a legacy of faith and financial wisdom that lasts for generations.

This episode explores the intersection of spiritual stewardship, family values, and financial preparedness—showing why leaving a godly inheritance goes far beyond money. Angela opens up about growing up between Jamaica, England, and the U.S., watching her grandmother invest in land in the 1950s, and how those lessons contin...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re talking real faith, real planning, and real peace. 

I sit down with my lifelong friend, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Haneda Latese Garner, founder of HLG Resources and HG Travels, to talk about what it means to prepare for the future with faith as the foundation.

From serving in combat zones to launching her own consulting and travel companies, Latese shares the lessons she’s learned about stewardship, balance, and trusting God through every season. Together, we explore how spiritual growth and financial planning go hand in hand, and why...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re talking real faith, real impact, and real generosity. I sit down with my cousins Anshay Tull and Anshia Crooms, co-founders of Project Hygiene, a nonprofit combating bullying and restoring dignity through hygiene closets for kids in need.

From a single idea in 2011 to 14 years of nationwide outreach, their story proves you don’t need abundance to bless others—you need a willing heart. Hear how a bar of soap or a kind word can change a life, why 227 schools are on their waitlist, and how communities from D.C. to Mi...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, I sit down with Steven Waddy, President of the Anne Arundel County NAACP, for a powerful conversation about boycotts, buying power, and how turning purchases into purpose can transform communities.

We dive deep into how consumer choices become spiritual advocacy, why disinvestment after George Floyd’s murder sparked today’s wave of boycotts, and how God calls us to align our wallets with justice, stewardship, and compassion. Steven shares his journey from civic engagement in Atlanta to leading community impact in Maryland, offering wisdom on what it really means to spend...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re getting candid about something that affects all of us: comparison. Shay Cook welcomes powerhouse entrepreneur and coach Dr. Johnetta Thurston for a soul-stirring conversation about identity, finances, and faith in the age of the algorithm.

Shay and Dr. Johnetta open up about the silent weight of social pressure, how spiritual alignment helps resist financial distraction, and what true contentment looks like in a world obsessed with more.

If you’ve ever scrolled through social media and felt like you’re behind—or wondered why your blessings feel delay...

In this episode, we get real about what happens when ambition is led by purpose—not pressure—and how trusting God with your finances, goals, and career can lead to outcomes that defy logic. 

From tithing through pay cuts to setting boundaries in grind culture, Dewan Clayborn, President & CEO of the Central Maryland Chamber, shares his testimony of what happens when you follow God’s call—even when it doesn’t make sense on paper.

If you’ve ever wrestled with the tension between ambition and obedience, or wondered whether your goals are rooted in faith or ego...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re keeping it real, keeping it holy and keeping it honest. Shay Cook sits down with her sister, salon owner and entrepreneur Montoya Silver for a powerful conversation about debt, faith, and financial freedom.

In this episode, we're diving into the emotional and spiritual weight of financial responsibility, how being uncomfortable is often where God does His best work, and why debt isn’t always a bad thing—it’s a tool that, with the right mindset and stewardship, can lead to generational wealth.

From scaling a business w...

Welcome to Yahweh’s Money: The Crossroads of Religion and Money. I’m Shay Cook, an Accredited Financial Counselor®️, passionate believer, and the founder of Crusaders for Change®️, LLC. 

If you’ve ever felt curious, uncomfortable, confused, or even guilty talking about money in a spiritual setting, I created this space for you.

We’ve been taught that money is the root of all evil. That tithing is about obligation, not overflow. That debt is a sign of failure—not a place where grace can show up. But I believe it’s time to challenge those narratives.<...

In this episode of Yahweh’s Money, we’re keeping it real, keeping it holy—and keeping it hilarious. I sit down with comedian and radio personality Larry Lancaster for a soul-nourishing conversation about the power of laughter, faith, and financial resilience.

This isn’t your average “let’s talk money” episode.

We dive deep into how humor becomes a spiritual tool in hard times, why many of our financial issues are rooted in ego—not lack—and how a cheerful heart truly is good medicine (Proverbs 17:22). Larry doesn’t hold back as he shares his journey from gro...

In this powerful episode of Yahweh’s Money, I sat down with my daughter, Alana Cook, for a candid Gen X vs. Gen Z conversation about faith, finances, and finding your own path.

Together, we explored how different generations approach money, the church, and what it really means to walk in financial freedom while staying spiritually grounded.

Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion:

Faith and Finances Are Deeply Personal

While older generations often tied financial decisions to church traditions like tithing, Gen Z is questioning religious in...

In the season 4 opening episode of Yahweh’s Money, I had an open and heartfelt conversation with my husband, Nathaniel Cook Jr., about the intersection of love, legacy, faith, and finances in Black marriages. 

Drawing on our 26-year journey together, we reflected on how biblical principles, patient partnership, and intentional money management have shaped our relationship and approach to generational wealth.

Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion:

Compromise is Crucial

Marriage and money both thrive on honest conversations and joint decision-making. Neither partner will always be rig...

Welcome back to Yahweh's Money, the podcast where faith meets finance! 

In this final episode of Season 3 (we will be back with Season 4 and changes, y'all, in June!), I welcome back my special guest Adriana Lopez and together we dive into navigating the stormy seas of inflation. 

As prices rise and financial pressures mount, we explore how faith-based strategies can empower you to thrive financially. Drawing inspiration from biblical teachings and personal experiences, Adriana and I discuss practical ways to adjust spending habits, embrace gratitude, and prepare for economic uncertainty. 

From switching to gen...

With headlines dominated by bank failures and economic crises, where do we place our trust? Let us lead you back to faith, focusing on Psalm 20:7 as a spiritual anchor: "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." 

True security is found in a steadfast reliance on God's provisions. Get ready for rapid-fire questions, personal anecdotes, and spiritual reflections, all designed to inspire you to lean deeper into your faith amidst life's financial storms. 

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Welcome to a transformative journey on Yahweh's Money, where faith meets finances! 

In this episode, my guest Tanisha Allen and I delve into conquering fear with faith to unlock financial freedom, career growth, and personal development. We share inspiring stories of taking bold financial risks, from selling homes to investing in personal growth. Embrace stewardship over ownership and trust God’s plan, even amidst life’s uncertainties. 

Whether it’s transforming your mindset or building a family legacy, it’s time to stop letting fear control your decisions and start living abundantly. 

🎙️ Here are 3 key takeaw...

Welcome back to Yahweh’s Money!

In this episode, we dive deep into the hidden costs of higher education beyond tuition. I’m your host, Shay Cook, and I’m excited to introduce our new and improved format for more authentic, conversational discussions.

Joining me is Adriana Lopez, a military veteran, Accredited Financial Counselor®️, and the inspiration behind our podcast! Together, we break down overlooked college expenses—dorm furniture, textbooks, transportation, and unexpected fees—while offering practical budgeting tips to help you plan wisely. Inspired by Proverbs 27:23, we encourage financial stewardship and mindful preparation for these hidden...

What if the choice between renting and buying could be guided not just by financial logic, but by faith as well? Joining Shay Cook on this fascinating discussion is Janessa Siegel, one of our Accredited Financial Counselors at Crusaders for Change, LLC. Listen as they explore the complex world of real estate investment versus renting through the unique lens of biblical stewardship. Drawing inspiration from Luke 16:10, they uncover how renting can be a wise and responsible step before transitioning to the commitment of homeownership. Through personal stories, they illuminate the often-overlooked challenges of owning a home, such as unexpected...

Discover how faith and finance can become your guiding light on the path to financial freedom. Join Shay Cook, alongside her insightful guest, Janessa Siegel from Crusaders for Change, as they unravel the profound impact of setting clear financial goals through a faith-based perspective. Together, they explore the transformative journey from financial stress to empowerment, emphasizing the critical role of stewardship and divine guidance in crafting a solid financial plan. Janessa's insights offer practical steps to financial planning, as personal stories illustrate the remarkable shift from mere dreaming to purposeful action.

The episode doesn't stop there; it...

On this episode we revisit a pivotal episode, "Review, Reflect, and Reset Your Finances," where they share personal stories, such as selling a condo in Puerto Rico, to highlight the importance of reflecting on past financial achievements and setting fresh goals. Through a faith-based lens, they celebrate the wins and recognize their growth, offering hope and resilience for what's next.

Managing personal finances is crucial, and they've got some strategies to share. From pausing Amazon purchases to reconsidering your streaming services and possibly returning to cable, they explore ways to make entertainment choices more cost-effective. Listen as...

Have you ever pondered the delicate dance between faith and finances? Join Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley as they embark on a heartfelt exploration of how to steward wealth with grace in this episode of Yahweh's Money. They promise to share invaluable insights from biblical principles, particularly 1 Timothy 6:17-19, urging you to anchor your hope in God rather than fleeting riches. This episode uncovers the transformative power of humility, generosity, and the true essence of wealth management as a divine gift meant to enrich lives and honor the Creator.

In a world that often equates possessions with...

When does helping a loved one become enabling, and how do we strike the right balance? Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley dive into this profound question as they share personal experiences and insights from their journey as financial counselors. Through the lens of scripture, such as Matthew 7:6, they explore the fine line between financial generosity that reflects love and the risk of fostering dependency. Vanessa shares a story about her brother, illustrating the delicate dynamics that play out in family relationships and the importance of setting boundaries while maintaining faith.

Breaking generational stigmas around self-care, especially within...

Have you ever felt the pressure to give the perfect holiday gift without breaking the bank? Join Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley as they unravel the complex and often stressful relationship between holiday gift-giving and financial balance. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 9:7, they emphasize giving from the heart rather than out of obligation. They share personal anecdotes of navigating holiday traditions and the emotional tug-of-war between lavish and meaningful gift-giving. This episode is packed with reflections on the nostalgia of childhood holiday catalogs and the commercial influences that shape our perceptions of the "perfect" holiday season.

Listen in as...

Can financial decisions be acts of worship? Shay and Vanessa explore this intriguing question as they navigate the intersection of faith and finance. Together, they discuss how aligning your spending with God's purpose can bring fulfillment beyond material wealth. Inspired by 1 Corinthians 10:31-33, they delve into the concept of managing money not just for personal gain, but as a reflection of their spiritual values. Expect to gain practical insights on supporting companies that share your beliefs, even when facing financial challenges.

You'll hear personal stories that illuminate the joy and unexpected relief that comes from trusting God...

Gratitude and envy—two powerful forces shaping our lives in unexpected ways. Imagine transforming the green-eyed monster into a companion of joy. In this episode, Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley share their personal stories and biblical insights, taking you on a journey to understand how gratitude can bring contentment and fulfillment into your daily life. Together, we'll explore why thankfulness should extend beyond the holiday season, helping you align your heart with the blessings you already have, rather than longing for what others possess.

Jealousy and envy might seem negative at first glance, but they don't have to...

What if the real treasure isn’t found in your bank account, but in the love and relationships you nurture? Join Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley as they embark on a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to prioritize love over material wealth. Inspired by Matthew 6:19-21, we reflect on the eternal versus the ephemeral, sharing personal stories that lay bare the impermanence of earthly possessions and the profound value of love. Through these narratives, we reveal how aligning our financial choices with our faith can lead to a life rich in purpose and fulfillment.

Imagine a...

When was the last time you truly let go and let God handle your finances? This episode of Yahweh's Money, hosted by Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley, tackles the challenging question of why so many faithful believers find it difficult to trust God with their financial decisions. We explore Proverbs 3:5-9, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's wisdom, timing, and provision. Vanessa shares a personal story from her mother, illustrating how the right opportunities often come at the most unexpected times, reminding us to be patient and trust in divine timing.

We also dive into the...

What if chasing material success is the very thing that's keeping you unhappy? Join Shay Cook and Vanessa McNelley on Yahweh's Money as we unpack how the pervasive issue of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) drives us into a cycle of stress and dissatisfaction. We lean on biblical wisdom, particularly from Matthew 6:19-21, and use relatable metaphors to illustrate the pitfalls of valuing possessions over spiritual wealth. Together, we share personal stories and insights aimed at finding true contentment through gratitude, spiritual growth, and the joy of being a cheerful giver.

Our discussion extends to the profound...

Do you struggle with the emotional and practical challenges of caring for aging parents? Join us on Yahweh's Money as Shay and Vanessa share heartfelt personal experiences and explore the profound intersection of faith and family. Reflecting on the teachings of 1 Timothy 5:4, they discuss the balance of love, duty, and obligation that accompanies caregiving. They'll also navigate the tricky waters of manipulation and boundary-setting, recognizing that not all parent-child relationships are built on unconditional love. 

Planning for aging is more critical than ever, yet often overlooked. In this episode, they emphasize the necessity of having open, honest c...

Can you imagine a world where nearly half of all households have women as primary earners? Today, we explore the transformative impact of women, especially women of color, stepping into the role of breadwinners. Join Vanessa and Shay as they discuss the role of education in empowering women to achieve career success and challenge traditional stereotypes. Through personal anecdotes and cultural references, such as the hit show "House of Dragon," we illustrate how women are redefining family dynamics and leadership roles, all while managing their faith and family life.

We'll also examine the evolving dynamics of household...

What if the key to your child’s future financial success starts with their first allowance? Join Shay and Vanessa as they uncover the powerful ways parents can nurture financial literacy in their children right from the start. Drawing from personal experiences and timeless wisdom like Proverbs 22:6, they discuss how early lessons in money management can set kids on a path to becoming confident and responsible financial stewards.

Remember saving up for that must-have item in your youth? We take you on a nostalgic journey through childhood work experiences and the invaluable lessons they impart. Whether it’s ba...