Headshot photo of Laura Allen, Volunteer Financial Mentor @ 3rd Decade

Volunteer Financial Mentor

Laura Allen

Passionate About...
Budgeting Debt Management Taxes

I am an entrepreneur with a background in management consulting and People Operations. I spent over 15 years in the corporate world before realizing that my favorite kind of strategy involves helping individuals master their money. I believe that financial peace of mind isn’t about restriction; it’s about clarity. I love teaching mentees how to build “spending plans” that align with their values and setting up automated systems so their money works for them without constant stress.

I came to financial clarity later in life (after receiving my MBA) so I understand that the path isn’t always linear. I’m here to help you get organized and feel confident about your future. Outside of work, I’m a Chicago local who loves activities. In the winter you’ll catch me on the slopes snowboarding and in the summer I’ll be on the court playing anything with a racquet or on the course trying to master my golf swing.

Get to Know Laura

What is a book or film that changed your life? "You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero. I was gifted this book by a mentor during a difficult time in my professional life, and it sparked a major turning point for me. It introduced me to the concept of taking radical responsibility for my life and the power of mindset. It helped me move past self-doubt and step into my confidence, propelling me toward a more meaningful trajectory for my career and finances.
What is a quote you like to live by? "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" — Mary Oliver I keep this quote close to remind myself to maintain perspective. It’s easy to fall into the trap of doing things simply because society expects us to, but we only get this one life. To me, this quote reinforces why financial planning is so important: we need to be responsible and plan so that we have the freedom to step back, enjoy the journey, and build a life that truly works for us.
What would the title of your autobiography be? "Confessions of a Recovering Perfectionist." For a long time, I was the classic "Type A" achiever, following the corporate playbook and living by society's expectations. This title represents my journey of breaking free from that mold. It captures the shift from chasing "perfect" to chasing purpose - specifically, leaving a successful corporate career to build a company dedicated to empowering childfree women to plan for their futures on their own terms.