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In this clip from the latest episode of Financial Freestyle, CNN commentator and Dream Machine Innovation Lab founder Van Jones sits down with host Ross Mac to discuss the ways financial literacy can close gaps in economic opportunities for marginalized groups.

"It's almost criminal the way that we are undereducated... miseducated about finances," says Jones. "The first question they ask a young African American is what kind of job do you want to get when you get [out of] school? Well, that's already a problem."

Instead of framing work as just being employed or unemployed, Jones believes youth should be made aware how much authority they have at a job matters. They should strive not just to be managers and CEOs, but the owners and financiers that those managers and CEOs report to. Then, they should measure success by how many jobs they're providing for others.

"The question shouldn't be what job do you want?" Jones says. "The question should be how many companies do you want to own when you grow up?"

Financial Freestyle with Ross Mac on Yahoo Finance is dedicated to promoting economic prosperity for all. Through expert insights, practical advice, and inspiring success stories, we empower you to build and grow wealth. Join us on this transformative journey toward financial freedom and inclusive economic growth.

This post was written by Meredith Lawrence.