Meet Ashaunda’ Davis | Wealth Strategist, Financial Advisor & Money Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashaunda’ Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashaunda’, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One often overlooked aspect of the financial planning industry is the emphasis on holistic financial well-being. Many people perceive financial planning as solely focused on investments and retirement accounts. However, a significant aspect of financial planning for me, my practice, and clients involves addressing broader and narrowed life goals, such as education, homeownership, healthcare, retirement, insurances and legacy planning.

True Financial planners, like myself, take a comprehensive approach, considering various facets of a client’s life to create a customized strategy. This involves understanding not just the numbers but also the individual’s values, aspirations, and potential life changes. Successful financial planning goes beyond optimizing investment portfolios; it encompasses a thorough understanding of a client’s unique circumstances and aims to create a roadmap that aligns with their overall life objectives.

In essence, financial planning is not solely about amassing wealth but about using financial strategies to enable individuals to live the life they envision. It’s a dynamic process that adapts to life’s changes, providing a framework for financial success that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey into financial advising and wealth management began with a childhood filled with invaluable lessons. I vividly remember Saturday mornings spent at the kitchen table, watching my parents navigate through budgeting and bill payments. At a young age, I eagerly joined in, even writing out checks with my childish handwriting—a small but crucial role in an essential adult activity.

Those early experiences shaped my understanding of financial responsibility. The lessons learned, from managing a household budget to the significance of a united approach to money, resonate with me to this day. This foundation, laid in childhood, became the cornerstone of my ability to navigate financial challenges through various stages of life.

As I grew older, my knack for financial management drew others to seek my guidance. Friends, colleagues, and family members approached me for help in setting up their budgets, a service I gladly provided for free. This passion for teaching others about financial literacy led me to pursue a career in educating others.

After earning my Masters in Communications Studies and Business, I found myself teaching business principles at my old high school. This role not only allowed me to share my expertise but also fulfilled a deep sense of pride as I influenced the next generation. Concurrently, I was building a network marketing business, helping people access quality legal counsel they might not afford otherwise.

Recognizing my ability to offer comprehensive financial advisement, I expanded my services beyond providing a service that provided legal counsel to insurance. I earned my insurance licenses and seamlessly integrated this new expertise into my portfolio. The culmination of these experiences, spanning from offering budget advice at kitchen tables to guiding CEOs in securing their businesses’ financial futures, led me to embrace my role as a Professional Financial Advisor.

In my first year, I noticed a common thread among my predominantly female clients—a deep emotional response to financial discussions, often tinged with fear and insecurity. This prompted me to write a book, driven by a desire to empower individuals to build real wealth, transcending the superficial trappings of looking rich. I aim to end tears and instill practical financial principles that can be passed down through generations.

My journey has taught me that wealth is more than flashy possessions; it’s an abundance of personal self-care, relationships with others, a sense of spiritual connectedness, and then assets, investments, and financial security. As I continue to guide individuals toward true financial empowerment, my focus remains on building a legacy of knowledge and prosperity for years to come.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Absolutely, if my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure to give them a taste of the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and exciting experiences the city has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta

Morning: Start the day with brunch at “Le Petit Marché” in Kirkwood for some delicious Southern-inspired dishes.
Afternoon: Explore the historic Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the King Center and Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Evening: Head to Ponce City Market for dinner at “Minero” for creative Mexican cuisine and a stroll along the BeltLine.
Day 2: Arts and Culture Day

Morning: Visit the High Museum of Art for a dose of contemporary and classic art.
Afternoon: Have lunch at “Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours” in West Midtown, known for its modern Southern comfort food.
Evening: Catch a performance at the Fox Theatre, an iconic venue with stunning architecture.
Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning: Enjoy a serene morning at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Afternoon: Have lunch at “Sun in My Belly” in Kirkwood, known for its farm-to-table offerings.
Evening: Head to the Westside Provisions District for dinner at “JCT Kitchen & Bar” and a stroll through the trendy boutiques.
Day 4: Historic Neighborhoods

Morning: Explore the historic district of Inman Park, known for its charming architecture.
Afternoon: Have lunch at “Rathbun’s” for upscale American cuisine.
Evening: Experience the lively atmosphere of Edgewood Avenue with dinner at “Aisle 5” followed by live music or a DJ set.
Day 5: Foodie Adventure

Morning: Visit the Krog Street Market for breakfast at “The Flying Biscuit” or “Hop City” for a craft beer experience.
Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Virginia-Highland, known for its unique shops and boutiques.
Evening: Have dinner at “Two Urban Licks” for wood-fired cuisine and live blues music.
Day 6: Outdoor Exploration

Morning: Hike or have a leisurely morning at Stone Mountain Park.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at “Community Q BBQ” for some authentic Southern barbecue.
Evening: Relax at a rooftop bar like “Six Feet Under” for great views of the city.
Day 7: Farewell

Morning: Brunch at “West Egg Café” in West Midtown.
Afternoon: Take a walk through Centennial Olympic Park and visit the World of Coca-Cola or the Georgia Aquarium.
Evening: Conclude the trip with a farewell dinner at “South City Kitchen” for modern Southern cuisine.
Throughout the week, I’d also recommend checking out local events, art galleries, and live performances to capture the dynamic spirit of Atlanta. The city has so much to offer, and this itinerary is just a glimpse into the exciting possibilities.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Growing up in Hampton, VA, within the nurturing embrace of a two-parent Christian household, I was fortunate to learn invaluable life lessons from my parents. As the middle child with both an older brother and a younger sister, our family dynamic instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to looking out for my siblings.

In the midst of the challenges life presented, my parents emerged as beacons of wisdom and strength. Their guidance was instrumental in shaping the qualities and skills essential for success. Here’s how their influence has been pivotal:

Family Values and Responsibility:
Growing up in a two-parent Christian household emphasized the importance of family values. My parents, through their actions and teachings, instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards my siblings. As the middle child, I learned to navigate the delicate balance of looking out for both my older brother and younger sister. This experience cultivated qualities of empathy, leadership, and a strong sense of familial duty.

Financial Literacy and Support:
Hampton, VA, became the backdrop for lessons in financial responsibility. Witnessing my parents diligently managing our household budget and making prudent financial decisions laid the groundwork for my own financial literacy. They provided a stable foundation, teaching me the value of money, savings, and the importance of planning for the future.

Respect, Gratitude, and Networking:
Our close-knit community in Hampton taught me the significance of valuing people and treating them well. My parents emphasized the importance of respect and gratitude, not just within the family but extending it to the community. This mindset shaped my approach to networking and building connections. I learned that people, irrespective of their knowledge or financial resources, could offer valuable insights and support on the journey to success.

The lessons from Hampton and my two-parent household became the cornerstone of my character. I carry forward the values of familial responsibility, financial prudence, and the understanding that success is not just an individual endeavor. It’s about uplifting others, valuing relationships, and creating a supportive community.

As I navigate the complexities of life and pursue success, I am grateful for the unwavering support of my parents and the foundation they laid. Their teachings have not only shaped my personal and professional journey but have also inspired me to pay it forward by contributing positively to the lives of those around me.

Website: www.ashaundadavis.com

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Linkedin: @ashaundad

Twitter: @AmdFinancial

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