Andrea, a marketing director and brand strategist, had no savings, a big mortgage, and $18,000 in consumer debt, including a revolving line of credit and two credit cards—one of which had gone into collections.  Unfortunately, this was a result of one too many shopping sprees and non-fat lattes! Andrea had big dreams for herself, but figuring out how to get there financially was not her strong suit. Within a year of joining the Smart Cookies in early 2006, she'd paid off more than one-third of her debt, and accrued nearly $150,000 in equity in her condominium. In 2007, Andrea paid off all of her debt, is now putting money towards a savings account and keeps her credit card at home to avoid any spontaneous purchases.



•    Paying off Debt
•    Getting What You're Worth
 

Before becoming a Smart Cookie, Angela's motto was 'spend now, worry later'. She was independant, in control and on the ball when it came to all other areas of her life, but clueless about finances. She happily let her partner take care of all money matters. She was also working at a job she enjoyed, but one that came with long hours and little pay. Angela was not earning enough to support her lifestyle or fund her big dreams. She is now in business for herself as a realtor and well on her way to financial freedom. Angela is the go-to-girl for positive reinforcement and is known as the money magnet for a reason - full of creative ideas on how to make money and is happy to show others how to get rich the unconventional way!

•    Real Estate
•    Attracting More Money

Katie, a newlywed and publicist, had a dark financial past full of maxed out credit cards, shopping sprees and unpaid bills. After meeting her husband and connecting with the other Smart Cookies, Katie committed to changing her ways.   By taking a no-nonsense approach to career and wealth, she has made nearly $200,000 through investing in real estate and the stock market. Katie also managed to pay for her $22,000 wedding in cash while still continuing to build her savings and investment portfolio.



•    Investing
•    Financial Breakdowns

As a social worker, Robyn had chosen a career that she was passionate about but one that would not necessarily bring her riches.  Also, she had accrued more than $12,000 in debt since divorcing two years earlier, and was struggling to keep up with bill payments on her limited income.  She has learned that she can have it all and has found personal fulfillment and doubled her earning potential by obtaining her Master Degree in Social Work. She has now sliced her debt in half and recently purchased her second condo, which she shares with her pampered pooch, Lucy.



•    Making the Most Out of The Job You Love
•    Relationship With Money

Sandra, a public relations manager, had $2,000 in credit card debt, a fear of managing money, and was quickly depleting her savings account trying to pay off her debt while supporting her active, single lifestyle. Today she has paid off her debt and put $5,000 into a retirement savings plan. With a newfound confidence, she is living the life she always imagined, as a young, savvy independent city girl. Looking to the future, Sandra plans to purchase a condominium as an investment in the coming year.



•    Being a Savvy Shopper
•    Living the Sweet Life For Less