START WELL™

START WELL® Podcast – The Art of Spending Money byMorgan HouselGuest Reviewer: Cara GrahamIn this episode of START WELL®, we explore The Art of Spending Money by Morgan Housel, the highly anticipated follow-up to The Psychology of Money, a book previously discussed in Season One of the podcast. While The Psychology of Money focused on how we grow wealth,this book shifts the lens to how we use it.This is not a book about spreadsheets, budgets, or technical financial strategies. Instead, Housel explores the psychology behind spending, including identity, envy, happiness, status, independence, insecurity, and contentment. It challenges us to think differently about why we spend, what our spending says about us, and how our financial decisions influence not only our own lives but the children watching us.In this episode, host Dawn Thomas is joined by guest reviewer Cara Graham to unpack the lessons from the book and explore how parents can bring meaningful conversations about money, values, and behaviour back into the home.What We Cover in This EpisodeMoney as a Tool or a Status SymbolOne of the foundational ideas in the book is that there are two ways to use money:As a tool to create a better lifeAs a yardstick of status to compare ourselves to othersThe discussion explores how this distinction shapes our decisions and why helping children see money as a tool, rather than a measure of worth, matters so much.Can Spending Money Buy Happiness?Housel opens the book with a provocative thought:Can money buy happiness? Yes.Can spending money make you happier? Yes.But the relationship is more complicated than people think.The episode explores how money often creates happiness indirectly. For example, a larger home may bring happiness not because of the house itself, but because it creates space for connection with family and friends.Happiness vs ContentmentA major theme throughout the book is the distinction between:Happiness: the excitement, novelty, and emotional “buzz” that often comes with acquiring something newContentment: the ability to stop chasing and appreciate the present momentSpending, Attention and StatusThe episode explores Housel’s framework around attention-seeking through spending.This leads into an important discussion around envy, admiration, and the idea that people may not admire flashy displays as much as we assume.The Most Valuable Financial AssetA standout quote from the book:“The most valuable financial asset is not needing to impress anyone.”The episode explores how freedom from comparisoncan become one of the most powerful forms of wealthYour Money and Your KidsA particularly powerful chapter focuses on children and the financial lessons they absorb from us.Key reminders:Kids are always watchingChildren learn financial behaviour through observationThe values parents display around money shape future habitsA central question explored:What do you want your children to remember you by?Listen to START WELL® for more conversations helping parents bring money discussions backhome and support young people in building healthier financial futures. General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

Episode OverviewIn this episode of START WELL®, Dawn sits down with financial educator, adviser and author Jessica Brady to explore the powerful ideas behind her book Get Growing: A No-Nonsense Guide to Cultivating Wealth and Financial Freedom.This conversation goes beyond budgets and spreadsheets and dives into the emotional, behavioural and social forces that shape how we think about money. Together, Dawn and Jess unpack how our childhood experiences, gender norms, shame, stress and identity influence financial decisions and how parents can model healthier money conversations for the next generation.About Jessica BradyJessica Brady is a financial adviser, financial educator, and host of the Financially Fierce podcast. With more than two decades of experience in financial services, Jessis known for her honest, accessible and practical approach to money education.Through her work, she helps everyday Australians build confidence with money by combining behavioural insights with clear financial strategies. Jess is passionate about improving financial literacy, challenging traditional money narratives, and creating a more inclusive financial future, particularly for women and underrepresented communities.Her book, Get Growing, blends personal storytelling, financial psychology and actionable guidance to help readers understand their money history, reshape limiting beliefs, and cultivate long-term financial freedom.What We Discuss in This EpisodeMoney Mindset & Learned BehaviourWhy money skills are learned, not inheritedUnderstanding how culture, family and life experiences shape money beliefsThe concept of a personal “money memoir”Childhood Money LessonsWhat children unintentionally learn about money at home Why kids often witness financial stress but not healthy money practicesHow gender norms influence financial confidence and opportunityPractical Tools for FamiliesMoney shame and how it quietly shapes financial choicesWhy parents may need to heal their own money stories firstCreatinga “money alter ego” to build new financial habitsGrowing Wealth Realistically The simple (but not easy) truth: spend less, earn more, or both🎧 Listen & FollowSubscribe to START WELL® for conversations helping young people and families build financialconfidence from the very beginning.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product DisclosureStatement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is anauthorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

START WELL® PodcastEpisode 4: Retire Life Ready with James Wrigley Episode OverviewIn this episode of START WELL®, Dawn speaks with Australian financial adviser, educator, and author James Wrigley abouthow retirement planning insights can help younger generations make better financial decisions today.Drawing on themes from his book Retire Life Ready,James shares stories and behavioural lessons gathered from years of working with retirees and pre-retirees, revealing patterns that often begin decadesearlier.Together, we explore purpose beyond retirement, thepsychology of investing, superannuation engagement, generational attitudes toward property, and why starting early matters more than chasing perfect returns.This episode bridges generations, showing how understanding long-term financial decisions early can create greater confidence, flexibility, and choice later in life. 💬 Discussion PointsRethinking Retirement• Moving beyond the traditional retirement narrative of travel and upgradesStarting Early & Compounding• The “Rule of Twenty” explained simply• Compounding through the lens of opportunity lost by starting late• Managing fear and avoiding panic selling during market downturnsSuperannuation & Early Engagement• Why superannuation is a powerful long-term structure• When young people should begin engaging with super• Breaking inherited fear or disengagement around investingProperty vs Shares & Generational Thinking• The cultural pressure for young Australians to buy property• How parental bias toward property can shape financial decisions• Accessibility of investing through shares versus property ownership• Rethinking perceptions of risk across different asset classesBehavioural Finance & Life Lessons• Client case studies and behavioural patterns around money• Whether financial fear is learned or inherited• How financial literacy conversations evolve across generationsFuture Conversations• Longevity and changing retirement expectations• The evolving role of the Age Pension• Moving beyond the traditional three-stage life model Book FeaturedRetire Life Ready by James WrigleyA practical, story-driven guide to preparing for retirementthat blends financial education with real client experiences. The book explores wealth building, superannuation, retirement decision-making, and the behavioural side of financial planning, helping readers understand both what todo and why it matters. Listen & ConnectListen to START WELL®:Available on your favourite podcast platform.Guest:Follow James Wrigley for accessible financial education and retirement insights across social media.START WELL® explores how young people can build strong financialfoundations through early engagement, education, and real conversations aboutmoney, behaviour, and long-term decision-making.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because ofthat, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

🎙️ START WELL® Podcast Episode 1: It's Not About the MoneyWith Jenny Rolfe-WallaceWe’re kicking off the new season of START WELL® with special International Women's Day episode. This is a powerful and practical conversation for parents and grandparents who want to shape confident, financially capable young women. In this episode, Dawn sits down with award-winning financial educator and podcast host Jenny Rolfe-Wallace, creator of It’s Not About the Money, which received international recognition at the Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards.Together, they explore one of the most important foundations of financial wellbeing:👉 We must start valuing the work of women at all levels, beginning in the home.Because when value is embedded early, it flows into decision-making, workplaces, policy and systems. When it’s not, we often find ourselves trying to prove there’s an issue instead of seeing and addressing it clearly.This conversation connects household money habits to broader themes of fairness, opportunity and justice.Why financial conversations at home shape lifelong confidenceHow valuing unpaid and paid work influences future earning powerWhy many women still feel they need to “prove” inequity existsThe current workforce moment — and why it may be a powerful time for women to negotiate salary and conditionsWhat supportive workplaces should be thinking about now:Meaningful parental leaveCaring leave for those supporting ageing parentsSupport during menopausePaying people what they are worthMost importantly, we focus on what parents and grandparents can do this week to help the next generation start well.Resources discussed:MoneySmart budgeting tools and calculatorsInvisible Women by Caroline Criado PerezMoney School by Lacey FilipichWho cooked Adam Smith's Dinner by Katrine KielosStop Fixing Women by Catherine FoxBreaking the Boss Bias by Catherine FoxKids Ain’t Cheap by Ana KresinaWorkplace Gender Equality Agency data and gender pay gap insightshttps://sprouteducation.com.au/its-not-about-the-moneyhttps://www.iwd.net.au/homeDomestic Abuse:https://www.wa.gov.au/government/coercive-controlThis episode is a reminder that financial literacy isn’t just about numbers.It’s about value.It’s about confidence.And it’s about creating homes where young people grow up knowing their contribution matters.If this conversation resonated, share it with a parent, grandparent or educator in your life.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because ofthat, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

This week resident reviewer Michelle Flanagan and host Dawn Thomas talk about the wildly popular book Rich Dad, Poor Dad. Looking at it from a perspective of financial advisers as well as how concepts can be passed on to young people. As always Michelle provides her rating on the book, in relation to how impactful it would be in relation to building financial knowledge in young people.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because ofthat, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

Episode 11: The Richest Man in Babylon – Grant Millar In this episode of the START WELL® podcast, we have guest book reviewer Grant Millar, GIF master, dad of 2, financial adviser and former DJ (rumoured). We discuss the classic financial book The Richest Man in Babylon byGeorge S. Clason, which has sold over 2 million copies and been in circulation since 1926. Grant has engaged with this book as an audio book and provides notjust his experience, but the feedback from his family, from the small snippets they listened together to in the car. The book due to its language, which is written in olden style English, may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it still covers the important foundations of finance. Some of the writing in the way people are represented (or not represented) has not stood the test of time. Grant says this book couldbe engaging for some, and inaccessible to other (his family were not too impressed), however in all cases there is the opportunity to bring back money lessons from the book to the home. Grant recommends this as an audio book which you could complete in 3 hours.The Richest Man in Babylon: Key PrinciplesParables are grouped into overarching themes of financialadvice, notably "The Seven Cures" and the "Five Laws ofGold."Seven Cures For a Lean Purse:Start thy purse to fattening: Save 10% of income to build wealth.Control thy expenditures: Avoid unnecessary expenses.Make thy gold multiply: Invest wisely and compoundreturns.Guard thy treasures from loss: Avoid risky investments.Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment: Own yourhome.Ensure a future income: Plan for retirement and familysecurity.Increase thy ability to earn: Continuously developskills.Five Laws of Gold:Gold cometh gladly to those who save: Saving is thefoundation of wealth.Gold laboreth diligently for the wise owner: Investmentsgrow with wise management.Gold clingeth to the cautious owner: Invest wisely withexpert advice.Gold slippeth away from unfamiliar investments: Stick to what you know.Gold flees from risky ventures: Avoid impractical or aggressive strategies.These principles emphasize the importance of saving, wise investment, caution, and avoiding imprudent financial decisions. Follow for more money conversations. General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. Theinformation, including tax information and any adviceprovided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider theappropriateness of the advice, having regard to thosethings. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned andconsider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

START WELL® Podcast: Episode 9 - Girls that Invest Our Resident Book Reviewer Michelle Flanagan helps usdiscuss and unpack the popular book Girls that Invest In this episode of the START WELL® Podcast, we delve into the world of investment through a unique lens: that of women taking charge of their financial futures. Our guest Michelle Flanagan, Principal Adviser at The Wealth Designers, steps in as our resident book reviewer (coming up The Psychology of Money and Rich Dad, Poor Dad).Michelle graciously offers her insights and expertise byreviewing this hugely popular book. She recommends this book for its plethora of valuable lessons, contemporary references (like TikTok) that connect to a younger audience, and its strong call to action to just get started on the path to financial empowerment. Michelle likes the book's robust action plan at the end of each chapter and addressing potential challenges her readers may facefrom those around them when beginning their financial empowerment journey. Michelle liked how the author, Simran, uses interesting analogies to help the reader understand concepts such as likening investing to skin care. A concept that particularly stood out to Michelle was how Simran, articulates the impact of stagnant wages effectively amounting to a pay cut due to inflation. Michelle appreciates the directnesswith which Simran addresses such crucial concepts. It's worth noting that while the book isn't solely focused on investing, it plays a vital role in empowering women to strengthen their overall financial position.Michelle has given this book a 5/5 in relation to how impactful it would be for a young person or a parent wanting to share a book with their kids. General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. Theinformation, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider theappropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

Episode 7: Girls Just Wanna Have Funds with Molly Benjamin In this episode of the START WELL® podcast, we sit down with Molly Benjamin, the author of "Girls Just Wanna Have Funds." Molly's book has been highly recommended for young women seeking to navigate the world of personal finance.Molly is known for her vibrant approach to personal finance. With a background in communications within the financial sector, Molly brings a unique perspective to money management.Learning from her own challenges with finances, Molly's journey led her to establish the Ladies Finance Club in 2018, aimed at empowering women to take control of their financial futures.About "Girls Just Wanna Have Funds": Molly's book is not just informative; it's also engaging, fun andrelatable, making finance accessible to all.The book covers everything from the basics of moneymanagement to more advanced strategies for financial success.Concepts like risk profiles are explained in relatableterms, such as comparing different types of shoes (Stilettos High Risk High Reward).Molly's ability to connect with her readers makes them feel like part of her inner circle.The Birth of Ladies Finance Club:Over a casual gathering with friends, Molly realized thelack of financial literacy among women and decided to host an informationalevent.The success of this gathering led to the creation of LadiesFinance Club in 2018, which has since expanded to Australia and gainedwidespread recognition.With over 35,000 women attending various events andworkshops, Ladies Finance Club has become a trusted resource for financialeducation.Molly's Mission:Molly's ultimate goal is to empower women to achievefinancial independence, giving them control and freedom over their lives.Through her work with Ladies Finance Club and thepublication of her book, Molly is making significant strides in fulfilling hermission.Join us as we delve into Molly Benjamin's journey and learn how she is empowering women to take charge of their financial destinies.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. Theinformation, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider theappropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

Episode 5 Start Well® podcast: Money Mindsetfor Kids and Parents with Karen Eley. In this episode, we're exploring the intricate relationship between money mindset and parenting. Our conversation with Karen Eley underscores the critical role parents play in shaping their children's money mindset. By understanding their own influences, being mindful of language, and adopting intentional strategies, parents can empower their children to navigate the complexities of money with confidence and resilience. Discussion points:Understanding Money Mindset Development inChildren: Karen provides insight into how children's brains develop and why ages 2-12 are crucial for shaping money attitudes and behaviors. Discussion on the impact of traumas related to money, illustrating with examples.Parental Influence and Awareness: Importanceof parents recognizing their own money influences and behaviours, which profoundly shape children's perceptions. Emphasis on parents being on the samepage and conveying consistent messaging about money to children.The Power of Language in MoneyConversations: Exploring how language used around money - earning, spending, having, and using it - impacts children's understanding and attitudes. Discussion on the emotional dimension of money and its influence on family dynamics.Intentional Parenting Strategies: Encouragementfor parents to be intentional about the messages they want to impart about money to their children. Suggestions for age-appropriate lessons and activities to foster financial literacy and resilience in kids. As a Money Mindset Coach: Karen reflects on her role in helping adults explore childhood experiences to uncover patterns in money mindset development. Insights into cultivating financially resilient children based on understanding parental mistakes and challenges.As a Mother: Balancing motherly instincts with the need to provide teachable moments for children. Acknowledgment of challenges such as mother's guilt while striving to instill financial wisdom in her own kids. Karen is a Certified Money Coach and former financial adviser, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a mother of two boys, aged 12 and 13. She is passionate about helping women navigate financial complexities and cultivate confidence in managing money. Karen is a regular financial commentator on various media platforms, offering practical and psychological insights.You can connect to Karen via LinkedIn Women Talking Finance: https://www.womentalkingfinance.com.au/Money Mindset Quiz: https://quiz.womentalkingfinance.com.au/ Thank you for tuning in to this episode ofthe Start Well™ podcast. Be sure to subscribe for more insightful discussionson how you can talk to the young people in your life about money in anempowering an healthy manner. General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. Theinformation, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast,does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider theappropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advicerelates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevantProduct Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider itscontents before making any decision.You should consider talking to a financialadviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorisedrepresentative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 AustralianFinancial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

I interview Danielle Ecuyer about her book Shareplicity. We explore how we can introduce key investment concepts to the next generation. Discussion Points: Investor Sentiment and Overcoming Fear: How to address the fear of loss among young investors and provides strategies for managing emotions in investment decisions. Insights into nurturing a healthy investor mindset from an early age. Investing in Companies You Love: The concept of investing in shares not just for financial gain but also to support companies whose products or services resonate with kids. Danielle brings shares to life by relating them to familiar companies and brands, making investing more relatable and engaging for children. Impact of Interest Rates and Economic Trends: Exploring the impact of interest rates on investment decisions and how to explain these concepts in a kid-friendly manner. Danielle provides insights into how economic trends shape investment opportunities and risks. The 21st Century Investor: Discussion on the evolving landscape of investing in the 21st century and the opportunities it presents for young investors, especially in the US share market. Empowering Future Investors: Strategies for parents and educators to introduce investment concepts to children in an accessible and engaging way. Danielle emphasizes the importance of teaching financial literacy from an early age to foster responsible financial habits. Danielle Ecuyer, author of Shareplicity and Shareplicity 2, anchor of AusBiz, with decades of experience in share investing and a passion for empowering future investors. Links: · Purchase Shareplicity and Shareplicity 2 · Connect with Danielle on Social Media General Advice Warning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).

In the inaugural episode of the START WELL® podcast, join host Dawn Thomas as she sits down with the incredible Lacey Filipich, author of the renowned book "Money School." Lacey shares her inspiring journey, winning what she calls the "ovarian lottery" with her money-savvy mom, Fran, who instilled crucial financial lessons from an early age.From studying chemical engineering to becoming a mining superintendent by 26, Lacey's drive led her to achieve Financial Independence, Time Rich (FI TR) by the age of 31, living off passive income. Her book has become a staple in the finance community, offering a blend of captivating stories and practical tips that cover the financial spectrum.Join the conversation as Lacey and Dawn delve into the pages of "Money School" and explore how you can bring these essential money lessons to the dinner table. Discover the keys to financial freedom, and learn how these discussions can empower you and your family on the path to a prosperous future.🔗 Subscribe now and visit The Wealth Designer's Start Well page for additional resources mentioned in this episode.General AdviceWarning – This Podcast contains general advice. Theinformation, including tax information and any advice provided in this Podcast, does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should before acting on the advice, consider theappropriateness of the advice, having regard to those things. If the advice relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making a financial decision. Dawn Thomas is a Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWDLicensee Services).