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YouTubeHave you ever had your credit card declined while trying to buy groceries for your child? Imagine standing there, helpless, as the store manager takes pity on you and pays for your food. This was the rock-bottom moment for Anika Jackson, a single mom who went from food stamps to running multiple businesses, teaching at university level, and creating podcast curriculums at USC.
Her story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a practical roadmap for anyone facing financial hardship, especially single mothers.
The Moment Everything Changed
“I had gone to the Walmart grocery store. When I dropped my daughter to school, was like, I know that groceries are affordable here. I need to get stuff for us to eat. And my card was declined,” Anika shares.
This pivotal moment forced her to swallow her pride and accept help. More importantly, it pushed her to take action.
“That was a big aha moment because the store manager felt called to help me and she said, pick out what you need for you and your baby. And, you know, not so baby, but you know, young kid.”
For Anika, this was the wake-up call that transformed her life.
The Single Mother’s Guide to Financial Comeback
Step 1: Use Available Resources Without Shame
“I want people to not be afraid to use the resources that are out there for us, because a lot of times we feel shame,” Anika explains.
Many people avoid programs like food stamps because they feel embarrassed. Anika reminds us that these resources exist for a reason—to help during tough times. There’s no shame in using them as a stepping stone.
Step 2: Put Yourself First (Yes, It’s Necessary)
One of the biggest obstacles for women and minorities is the inability to prioritize themselves. As Anika points out:
“We weren’t allowed to be selfish to think for ourselves and do things for us first. It was always like, people please get things done for others.”
This mindset keeps many talented people from achieving financial independence. To build wealth, you must learn to value yourself and your time.
Step 3: Build Your Network Strategically
Anika revealed something many don’t know exists: an “Underground Railroad” of minority business networks that provide support, funding, and opportunities.
“She had to bring a white man in the room, right when she’s asking people for money. She’s now found an ecosystem of support from hidden minority opportunities and people who work in certain industries and can pull levers that people don’t know about.”
Finding these networks takes time, but they can change everything for your business.
The Two Types of Business People
According to Stoy Hall, host of No BS Wealth podcast, there are only two types of people in business:
“There are those that care about money and there are those that care about people first. There’s no other. There’s no in between.”
Anika’s success came when she focused on putting people first. When she temporarily merged with a larger firm that prioritized profit over people, her clients followed her when she left.
“Clients came back to me because they’re like, we wanna work with you. We didn’t wanna work with them because we could see where the money was going.”
This people-first approach ultimately created more financial success than chasing money directly.
Practical Financial Tips for Rebuilding
Even while rebuilding from financial hardship, Anika recommends:
- Set aside something for yourself: “I always make sure to take a little bit of money for me, to give myself a little prize.”
- Invest while paying down debt: “A lot of people say, get outta debt before you start putting money in investment accounts. I’ve decided to throw that out the window.”
- Give when you can: “I still put a little aside to give to people that I need to give to.” Giving, even small amounts, keeps you in an abundance mindset.
- Reject scarcity thinking: “Make sure that you’re holding true to your values. Make sure you’re setting aside a little bit for you so that you can have some peace and joy still while you’re rebuilding.”
The Difference Between Rich and Wealthy
True wealth isn’t just about money. As Stoy explains:
“Wealthy to me, has nothing to do with money. It’s, I’m living a happy, joyful life. I’m able to provide back to others, and I can use money as a tool to help in ways that I want to, not that it’s dictated to me.”
Anika’s journey exemplifies this definition of wealth—building success while maintaining values and helping others along the way.
Your Next Steps
If you’re facing financial hardship, remember Anika’s journey from food stamps to success. Use available resources without shame, put yourself first when necessary, and focus on building genuine connections.
Most importantly, remember you’re not alone. As Anika’s story shows, rock bottom can become the foundation for your greatest success.
Connect with Anika: