Emergency Quarters with Carlos Matias
Welcome to another episode of Financially Naked: Stories from The Financial Gym! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Carlos, a talented writer and author, who joins us to discuss his new children's book, Emergency Quarters. Inspired by his childhood experiences growing up in Queens, New York, Carlos shares the heartwarming journey of Ernesto, a young boy who learns the value of a quarter in the era of payphones.
In this episode, we chat about the importance of financial literacy, especially for children, and how Carlos's upbringing in a tight-budget household shaped his understanding of money. We explore the origins of Emergency Quarters, from a celebrated essay in The New York Times to a beloved picture book.
Podcast Notes
This book is Carlos's love letter to New York City. It was inspired by his real-life experiences growing up in Queens in the era of payphones. It started as an essay in the New York Times, and he was approached to turn it into a book.
It touches on the nostalgic elements of growing up in New York, from the arcades to the food vendors and bodegas. As someone who grew up in NY, Catriona appreciated that part of the book.
We start learning about money at a young age, even if the lessons aren't directly taught. Ernesto's journey in the book teaches mindfulness, resourcefulness, and the importance of saving.
Inspiration for the book
The book is full of great money lessons, all demonstrated through Ernesto's day. He is tempted throughout the day to buy things, but he holds onto his emergency quarter.
Carlos grew up in an immigrant household. His parents were always resourceful and stuck to a strict budget. Growing up, they taught him a lot that he wanted to convey in this book.
He wanted the book to showcase his childhood experience in New York while teaching valuable money lessons.
Final Thoughts
It is never too early or too late to start learning about financial literacy. The more open we are about money, the easier it is to talk about it. It all starts with a conversation.
Emergency Quarters is a must-read for children and adults. It blends financial education with heartfelt storytelling, making it a great book to start the money conversation.
Reading kid's books is a fantastic way to integrate money lessons into your kids' lives from a young age.
2024 Upcoming Events
June 15: Little Reader's event with the Dominican Writers Association.
July 27: Event at the Museum of Food and Drink in New York.
If you want to work with a Certified Financial Trainer to help navigate your finances, schedule a free warm-up call today! If you have any ideas or questions for the show, send an email to trainerpodcast@fingyms.com.
Connect with Carlos Matias
Buy Emergency Quarters here!
Website: madebymatias.com
Instagram: @shawtylos
LinkedIn: Carlos Matias