

The Mr MoneyJar Show
Rotimi Merriman-Johnson
Welcome to the Mr MoneyJar Show, a weekly podcast hosted by Rotimi Merriman-Johnson.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 3, 2026 • 59min
The Adultification of Children, Code Switching & The Need for Black Teachers - Joy Mbakwe | EP 141
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mrmoneyjarIn this powerful episode, host Rotimi Merriman-Johnson (Mr MoneyJar) is joined by Joy Mbakwe, an educator, consultant, and content creator. Joy shares her profound journey through the UK education system, from overhauling curriculums to navigating the "adultification" of Black children. The conversation dives deep into the mental toll of code-switching, the radicalisation of young boys within incel culture, and the challenges of balancing an ambitious career with motherhood. Joy offers a raw, authentic look at why "having it all" is a myth and explains why true liberation for the community lies in ownership and building independent institutions.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introducing this week's guest01:24 - Journey into the teaching profession04:00 - Experiences of Black female teachers05:34 - The confidence toll of institutions07:54 - Code-switching and professional palatability11:34 - Creating an anti-racist curriculum14:55 - Performative diversity since 202017:48 - Adultification of Black children explained20:48 - Double consciousness and childhood innocence23:01 - Confronting unconscious bias in society26:21 - Understanding Incel culture and radicalisation31:23 - Masculinity, finances, and emotional fragility37:45 - Importance of radical self-acceptance40:59 - The need for Black teachers42:01 - How teaching shapes parenting styles48:05 - Marriage, love, and family examples53:18 - Career-driven women and motherhood choices58:49 - Final thoughts: What Black wealth meansFOLLOWThe Mr MoneyJar ShowInstagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshowX: x.com/themrmoneyjarshowYouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshowWebsite: https://mrmoneyjar.comIf you enjoyed this week's episode, please SUBSCRIBE:https://www.youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshow

Mar 26, 2026 • 49min
Dermatologist: Why Black People Need Sunscreen, Traction Alopecia & Colourism - Dr Emma | EP 140
In this illuminating episode, host Rotimi Merriman-Johnson (Mr MoneyJar) welcomes Dr Emma Amoafo-Mensah, a consultant dermatologist and founder of the House of Medics. Dr Emma provides a deep dive into the politics and health of skin, hair, and nails within the Black British community. The conversation tackles sensitive topics including the global skin bleaching pandemic, the realities of colourism, and the medical school toxicity she navigated. Dr Emma also dispels common myths regarding sunscreen and Vitamin D for darker skin tones while providing practical advice for treating hyperpigmentation and traction alopecia. This is a vital masterclass in skin health and self-advocacy.TIMESTAMPSåç00:00 - Trailer00:32 - Introducing this week's guest01:39 - Journey into the medical field02:46 - What is a dermatologist?03:56 - Medical school toxic culture explained08:37 - Global skin lightening search trends11:07 - Colourism and intra-community discrimination17:48 - Science behind "Black don't crack"18:54 - Sunscreen and Vitamin D myths24:05 - Common Black community skin issues26:18 - Treating hyperpigmentation and acne marks30:59 - Signs of cancer in skin32:58 - Skincare tips for Black babies36:05 - Understanding traction alopecia and loss37:37 - Advice on overseas hair transplants38:53 - Tips for healthy beard growth40:36 - Health risks of skin bleaching43:35 - Founding the House of Medics45:25 - Growing up in Basingstoke47:30 - What Black Wealth meansFOLLOWThe Mr MoneyJar ShowInstagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshowX: x.com/themrmoneyjarshowYouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshowWebsite: https://mrmoneyjar.comIf you enjoyed this week's episode, please SUBSCRIBE:https://www.youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshow

Mar 19, 2026 • 52min
Balancing Marriage & Business, Property Investing & Raising Wealthy Kids - Julianah Owusu | EP 139
In this property masterclass, host Rotimi Merriman-Johnson (Mr MoneyJar) sits down with Juliana Owusu, known as Property by Jules, to explore how to build a multi-million pound portfolio from scratch.Growing up in a Brixton council estate, Juliana’s lack of early ownership sparked a drive to secure 14 properties across the UK and the Middle East.The conversation covers essential first-time buyer tips, the benefits of the Lifetime ISA, and advanced investment strategies like BRRR, HMOs, and social housing. Juliana also shares the reality of balancing business with family.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Trailer00:32 - Introducing this week's guest01:34 - Meeting Property by Jules02:13 - Growing up in Brixton04:22 - Starting small and early05:24 - Lifetime ISA benefits explained06:17 - Moving to the Middle East09:32 - Safety for families abroad11:20 - Tips for first-time buyers13:56 - Bricks and mortar value15:56 - Choosing the right city18:12 - BRRR property strategy explained21:30 - Importance of property data22:06 - Airbnb and location demand24:14 - Understanding HMO compliance27:44 - Ownership vs Rent-to-Rent29:03 - Diversifying with care homes31:06 - 2026 Budget tax changes34:36 - Shared ownership pitfalls36:20 - Ditching the dream home39:29 - Buying near grammar schools43:35 - Reality of being a landlord45:40 - Balancing marriage and business48:06 - University in 21st Century50:19 - Faith and property journey51:36 - What Black Wealth meansThe Mr MoneyJar ShowInstagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshowX: x.com/themrmoneyjarshowYouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshowWebsite: https://mrmoneyjar.comGuest: Juliana Owusu (Property by Jewels)Instagram: instagram.com/propertybyjewelsTikTok: tiktok.com/@propertybyjewelsIf you enjoyed this week's episode, please SUBSCRIBE:https://www.youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshow

Mar 12, 2026 • 55min
How To Build A Podcast To 50k+ Subs - Ato Jay Founder of Savvy Wallet Podcast | EP 138
Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/mrmoneyjarIn this high-energy episode, host Timi Merriman-Johnson (Mr MoneyJar) sits down with Ato, the visionary founder of Savvy Wallet and host of the Savvy Wallet Podcast.Having interviewed over 200 guests himself, Ato steps into the interviewee spot to share his personal journey from South London to becoming a leading voice in Black financial media. The conversation explores the “four stages of consistency,” the impact of identity on wealth building, and the importance of multi-layered leverage. Ato reveals his bold vision to help 100 million people level up their finances and explains why he is passionate about moving the needle on property ownership and investing within the Black community.This is an essential watch for anyone looking to transition from a consumer mindset to an owner mindset and build a self-sustained financial future.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Trailer00:45 - Introducing this week’s guest01:29 - Meet Atto: Tech consultant, podcaster, and anime nerd03:51 - Growing up in South London05:14 - The influence of a multilingual, entrepreneurial mother08:34 - Money mismanagement and early financial lessons11:37 - The masterclass on consistency: Four stages to success16:11 - Defining identity: Who is the man behind Savvy Wallet?19:15 - Diversity in media: Why we need more than just comedy and sport24:42 - Meeting the Bank of England29:31 - The vision for Savvy Wallet: Reaching 100 million people34:55 - Diversity of thought and the intellectualism of the barbershop36:48 - Nation building: Developing communities, media, and corporations40:52 - Financial lessons from 200+ interviews: Identity vs income43:10 - Multi-layered leverage: Using skills and networks to build wealth45:34 - Why wealth is built quietly and the power of automation48:42 - Breaking down the 15% ISA statistic: Why it must grow50:18 - Why property ownership remains a key pillar of Black wealth53:11 - The unique UK advantage of Stocks and Shares ISAs54:53 - Final thoughts: What Black wealth meansFOLLOWThe Mr MoneyJar ShowInstagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshowX: x.com/themrmoneyjarshowYouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshowWebsite: https://mrmoneyjar.comGuest: Ato (Savvy Wallet)Instagram: instagram.com/savvywalletTikTok: tiktok.com/@savvywalletX: x.com/savvywalletYouTube: youtube.com/@savvywalletWebsite: https://savvywallet.co.ukAnd if you enjoyed this week’s episode, please SUBSCRIBE

Mar 4, 2026 • 1h 5min
UK Accountant: Why Taxpayers Don't 'Feel' Richer In 2026 - Benedicta Egbeme | EP 137
Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/mrmoneyjarIn this episode, Rotimi Merriman-Johnson is joined by "your favourite accountant" Benedicta to dissect the UK Autumn Budget and its specific implications for the Black British community. Moving beyond the jargon, they explore how frozen tax thresholds, inflation, and new government policies affect disposable income and long-term financial stability. Benedicta shares her personal journey from a single-parent household to founding Benny Ratio Finances, offering expert advice on diversifying income through limited companies and global investment strategies. This conversation provides a vital roadmap for navigating the 2026 economy, shifting the focus from simply identifying systemic problems to implementing practical wealth-building solutions.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Trailer00:49 Introduction to Benedicta and the Autumn Budget04:18 From private school to single-parent finances: Benedicta's story10:07 Why the Black community is often overlooked in policy12:33 Breaking down the Autumn Budget: Deficits and forecasting22:20 Frozen tax thresholds: The "tight shoes" analogy26:20 How inflation hits lower-income households hardest33:26 Beating the tax trap: The power of Limited Companies37:10 Dividend tax rises and pension contribution strategies40:12 National Minimum Wage vs. the London salary reality41:51 Changes to the Cash ISA allowance and investment education44:50 The Mansion Tax: Precedent for future property levies49:20 Benedicta’s blueprint: If I were Chancellor of the Exchequer54:25 Global mobility: Should you leave the UK for Dubai or Saudi?59:11 Navigating 2026: Proactive strategies for the community63:35 What Black Wealth means to BenedictaFOLLOWGuest Social Links:Web - https://beniratiofinances.com/Host Links (Always Include):Web - https://mrmoneyjar.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/mrmoneyjar19IG - https://www.instagram.com/mrmoneyjar/LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timimerrimanjohnson/TT - https://www.tiktok.com/@mrmoneyjarX - https://twitter.com/mrmoneyjarYT - https://www.youtube.com/mrmoneyjarTheme music: Title: Lease (Instrumental) by Mont Lee

Feb 28, 2026 • 1h
Experiencing Miscarriage, The Crisis in Congo & Reality TV Cancel Culture - Trish Balusa | EP 136
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mrmoneyjarDESCRIPTIONIn this powerful episode, Big Brother 20 star and activist Trish Balusa joins Rotimi Merriman-Johnson for an unfiltered conversation about the darker side of reality TV. Trish shares her deeply personal experience with PTSD following a media scandal, the lack of protection for Black women in production, and her journey navigating neurodivergence as an ADHD mother. The discussion explores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Congo, the intersections of capitalism and racism, and the importance of decentring men to find individual fulfilment. From breaking generational curses to building equity, this episode provides essential insights into advocacy, identity, and resilience in modern Britain.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Trailer00:29 Behind the scenes of Big Brother 2002:16 Reality TV and the diagnosis of PTSD06:12 The truth about the social media scandal10:37 Racial hierarchies and media representation16:19 The power and empowerment of Black women20:22 Growing up in Congo and migrating to the UK24:13 Understanding the humanitarian crisis in Congo27:45 Colonial capitalism and global resource extraction29:46 Cancel culture as modern propaganda34:22 Navigating life with ADHD and Dyslexia38:16 Challenging traditional African gender roles42:40 The philosophy of decentring men44:34 Parenting a neurodivergent son48:34 Experiencing miscarriage as a black woman55:04 Investigative journalism and future advocacy57:43 Redefining Black wealth and joyFOLLOWWeb - https://mrmoneyjar.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/mrmoneyjar19IG - https://www.instagram.com/mrmoneyjar/LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timimerrimanjohnson/TT - https://www.tiktok.com/@mrmoneyjarX - https://twitter.com/mrmoneyjarYT - https://www.youtube.com/mrmoneyjarTheme music: Title: Lease (Instrumental) by Mont Lee

Feb 17, 2026 • 56min
Wealth Building MASTERCLASS: For Families, Couples & For Yourself - Emmanuel Jones | EP 135
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mrmoneyjarIn this episode of the Mr. Money Jar Show, host Timi Merriman-Johnson is joined by Emanuel Jones, a wealth protection advisor and content creator known as The Money-Saving Parent. Together, they explore the essential pillars of building and safeguarding wealth within the family unit. Emanuel shares his professional expertise on life insurance, income protection, and critical illness cover, explaining how these tools prevent financial regression during hardships. The conversation also covers strategic investing for children through Junior ISAs and SIPPs, the power of transparency in marital finances, and why delayed gratification is the ultimate driver of long-term generational wealth.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Trailer00:35 – Introduction: Meet Emmanuel Jones01:17 – Emmanuel’s background and family life01:59 – How to start building family wealth02:58 – Life insurance: Bridging the inheritance gap04:25 – Junior ISAs and Stock & Shares investing06:01 – Safeguarding your income and mortgage07:28 – Why critical illness cover is essential09:46 – How to discuss life insurance with parents10:56 – Understanding Trusts and avoiding Probate11:41 – The power of compound interest for children14:21 – Junior ISAs vs. Junior SIPs explained17:34 – The importance of community financial education20:23 – Raising money-conscious children21:39 – The great debate: Private, Grammar, or State school?25:53 – Strategies for building wealth as a couple28:38 – The "Live on one, invest the other" strategy31:29 – Advice for being a supportive husband35:05 – Marriage, finances, and transparency40:41 – The reality of becoming a millionaire in the UK46:34 – Workplace pensions vs. Private pensions (SIPs)49:55 – What is compound interest?52:26 – Why Emmanuel invests in Google (Alphabet)55:17 – Closing: What "Black Wealth" truly meansPLEASE FOLLOWMr MoneyJarWeb - https://mrmoneyjar.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/mrmoneyjar19IG - https://www.instagram.com/mrmoneyjar/LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timimerrimanjohnson/TT - https://www.tiktok.com/@mrmoneyjarX - https://twitter.com/mrmoneyjarYT - https://www.youtube.com/mrmoneyjarGuestInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneysavingparent/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moneysavingdadYT: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMoneySavingParentTheme music: Title: Lease (Instrumental) by Mont Lee

Feb 7, 2026 • 36min
The TRUE Meaning Of Generational Wealth - Mixtape Madness Co-Founder Kingsley Okyere | EP 134
In this episode of The Mr MoneyJar Show, host Rotimi sits down with Kingsley Okyere, co-founder of the pioneering music platform Mixtape Madness. Kingsley reflects on his journey from a North London council estate to building a seven-figure record label that has reshaped the UK music landscape. The conversation moves beyond business to explore the true essence of generational wealth—defining it not by bank balances, but by the transmission of wisdom, integrity, and the bold sacrifices made by first-generation immigrants. Kingsley shares his perspective on the role of the black family, the impact of AI on creativity, and why we need more diverse role models outside of the music industry.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Trailer 00:48 - Introduction to the episode and Kingsley from Mixtape Madness 01:28 - Kingsley introduces Mixtape Madness and his role 01:53 - Growing up in 90s North London and early musical influences 03:55 - Dizzee Rascal, Boy in da Corner and cultural impact 05:14 - Early creativity, music production and shared experiences 06:08 - Being the test generation for technology and social media 07:52 - From LimeWire to streaming - witnessing digital change 08:55 - Social media, TikTok and AI’s impact on the music industry 12:44 - Generational wealth and the role of the Black family 17:49 - Books that shaped Kingsley’s mindset on money and success 21:48 - Competition, collaboration and Black entrepreneurship 29:23 - Role models, responsibility and education in social mobility 34:18 - What Black wealth really means and final reflectionsPLEASE FOLLOWMr MoneyJarWeb - https://mrmoneyjar.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/mrmoneyjar19IG - https://www.instagram.com/mrmoneyjar/LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timimerrimanjohnson/TT - https://www.tiktok.com/@mrmoneyjarX - https://twitter.com/mrmoneyjarYT - https://www.youtube.com/mrmoneyjarGuestInstagram: https://instagram.com/mixtapemadnessTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@mixtapemadnessX: https://x.com/mixtapemadnessYT: https://youtube.com/@mistapemadnessofficialWebsite: https://www.mixtapemadness.comTheme music: Title: Lease (Instrumental) by Mont Lee

Jan 30, 2026 • 50min
Get Paid More, Hired And Promoted In 2026 - LinkedIn Account Director: Shay Loko | EP 133
In this high-value episode, host Rotimi Merriman-Johnson (Mr MoneyJar) sits down with Shay Loko, an Account Director at LinkedIn and expert job search coach. Shay shares her journey from studying law to navigating a successful career in tech sales, emphasising the power of leaning into natural skill sets and the importance of professional referrals. The conversation tackles the persistent ethnicity pay gap in the UK, offering strategic advice on salary negotiation, CV optimisation, and how to master the "logic and emotion" of an interview. We also explore the future of work in the age of AI and the importance of staying close to revenue-generating roles. Whether you are looking for a promotion or a complete career pivot, Shay’s insights provide a roadmap for professional success in the 21st century.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Trailer00:42 Episode intro and guest overview 03:02 Shay’s career journey from law to LinkedIn 06:31 Ethnicity pay gap and career progression 11:46 How to increase your income 14:37 Biggest CV mistakes 19:27 How to overcome interview nerves 23:49 How to answer “Why should we hire you?” 29:21 How to handle salary expectations 32:49 Why LinkedIn matters for your career 39:46 AI and the future of jobs 49:13 What black wealth means to ShayPLEASE FOLLOWThe Mr MoneyJar ShowInstagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshowX: x.com/themrmoneyjarshowYouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshowWebsite: https://mrmoneyjar.comGuest: Shay LokoInstagram: instagram.com/shayloksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sloko/TikTok: tiktok.com/@shayl0ks

Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 46min
Why Caribbean Boys Are Being Left Behind, Black Wealth & The Dating Market - Javen Palmer | EP 132
In this episode, Love is Blind UK star and co-founder of ScalingEdge, Javen Palmer, offers an honest and insightful analysis of modern dating, the systemic impact of fatherless homes on Caribbean boys, and why he believes the nuclear family is the vital foundation for generational wealth. Javen also charts his journey from the youth ranks at Crystal Palace to the forefront of AI automation, sharing high-value strategies on how to "AI-proof" your career and build a self-sustained future. 00:00:00 - Trailer00:00:42 - Introduction to the Mr. MoneyJar Show00:01:46 - Javen Palmer’s background - AI Marketing Consultant and Love Is Blind UK00:02:22 - The selection process for Love Is Blind and filming in Sweden00:03:55 - The economics and business impact of going on reality TV00:04:41 - Addressing the "Villain Arc" and production edits00:06:23 - Relationships with other cast members and racial dynamics on set00:07:22 - Future plans - Compensation for TV and leaving dating shows behind00:08:26 - Discussing Black wealth, home ownership, and lone parenthood00:08:44 - Are Black people at a disadvantage on dating shows?00:10:15 - Perspectives on colourism and Eurocentric beauty standards00:13:47 - Media influence and the socialisation of racial standards00:16:17 - The "Rotten" dating market - Supply and demand for desirable men00:19:53 - Behind the scenes of dating apps - Algorithms and user behaviour00:26:13 - Is having a boyfriend "embarrassing"? Social media and "Hard Launching"00:32:08 - Is marriage still relevant in a secular, 21st-century society?00:35:26 - Statistical breakdown of single-parent households in the UK00:38:57 - Hyper-individualism vs. collective wealth in the Caribbean community00:44:45 - Cultural differences - The UK "Crabs in a Bucket" vs. the US "Dream Big" mindset00:49:57 - Education and the "Left Behind" Caribbean boy - The impact of fatherless homes00:56:40 - Potential solutions for community progress and 30-year projects01:04:27 - The future of Black Caribbean demographics and interracial dating01:06:33 - The debate over reparations and asset-based wealth01:12:14 - Black home ownership in the UK - Barriers and the power of inheritance01:20:42 - Transitioning from professional football at Crystal Palace to business01:27:37 - Relocating for tax strategies - Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE01:32:42 - How can people AI proof themselves?01:41:30 - What Javen invests in01:45:01 - What Black wealth means to JavenPLEASE FOLLOW Javen Palmer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javenpalmer/?originalSubdomain=ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/javenspalmer/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@javenspalmerWebsite: https://scalingedge.ai/Mr MoneyJarInstagram: instagram.com/mrmoneyjar TikTok: tiktok.com/mrmoneyjar YouTube: youtube.com/@mrmoneyjar Website: mrmoneyjar.com


