START WELL™

Dawn Thomas
START WELL™

Welcome to the START WELL™ podcast – I'm Dawn Thomas, your host. As a mother, financial adviser, and researcher, I'm here to guide you on empowering the next generation's financial journey. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or the coolest aunt or uncle, join me in exploring how impactful conversations about money can shape a young person's future. During each episode, we will be unpacking a resource or money concept, so you can take the conversation home with you. Let's harness their superpower of time and your superpower of influence to ensure they Start Well and thrive for a lifetime.

  1. Buying Happiness - Kate Campbell

    MAY 22

    Buying Happiness - Kate Campbell

    Episode 12 of the START WELL™ podcast, titled "Buying Happiness," features  author and podcaster Kate Campbell. In this episode, Kate discusses her new book, which she had her friends in their twenties in mind, when she wrote this book. The book focuses on helping people find contentment with their financial situations while also empowering them to progress financially.   Kate emphasizes that money is more than just numbers. She highlights the importance of integrating one's money history and mindset with practical strategies for financial advancement. Her goal is to convey that understanding and managing money involves a blend of emotional and practical elements. She wants people to recognize that achieving financial well-being requires a holistic approach that includes both personal financial history and actionable steps for improvement. Kate also stresses the importance of not comparing oneself to others when measuring success. Instead, she suggests focusing on what you admire about others' achievements and how those can relate to your own goals. She has tips on how you can have open money conversations with others which is still inclusive and not presumptuous. When it comes to children, Kate provides tips for making money conversations open and educational within the household. She advises explaining how financial systems work, such as how a mortgage needs to be paid off, and the concept of cash in an increasingly cashless world. She advises against expecting kids to do what you have done because what works for you may not work for them. It is more about supporting them in finding their own way, versus following your way. Kate recommends allowing children to take healthy financial risks, referring to the book "50 Risks to Take With Your Kids." This approach helps them learn to navigate different financial situations. She says some of the best things happen on the other side of taking a risk. Additionally, she encourages involving kids in planning and budgeting for activities like holidays, helping them understand the end-to-end costs involved.   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).

    43 min
  2. The Richest Man in Babylon - Grant Millar

    MAY 10

    The Richest Man in Babylon - Grant Millar

    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 by George 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 not just 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 could be 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 Principles Parables are grouped into overarching themes of financial advice, notably "The Seven Cures" and the "Five Laws of Gold." 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 compound returns. Guard thy treasures from loss: Avoid risky investments. Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment: Own your home. Ensure a future income: Plan for retirement and family security. Increase thy ability to earn: Continuously develop skills. Five Laws of Gold: Gold cometh gladly to those who save: Saving is the foundation of wealth. Gold laboreth diligently for the wise owner: Investments grow with wise management. Gold clingeth to the cautious owner: Invest wisely with expert 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 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).

    37 min
  3. The Psychology of Money - Michelle Flanagan

    MAY 2

    The Psychology of Money - Michelle Flanagan

    START WELL™ Podcast, Episode 10 - "The Psychology of Money"   In this episode of the START WELL™ Podcast, our resident reviewer, Michelle Flanagan, shares her insights on the beloved book "The Psychology of Money" by Morgan Housel.   Key Points Covered: Unconventional Approach: Housel's book stands out from traditional finance literature by employing storytelling to convey its messages. Wealth vs. Riches: Michelle appreciates the book's exploration of the distinction between being wealthy and being rich, emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment and contentment over mere material wealth. Confidence and Comparison: The book encourages readers to cultivate confidence in their own financial journey without succumbing to the trap of comparing oneself to others. Time as a Commodity: The idea of time as a valuable currency. Planning finances effectively can grant individuals greater control over their time, a perspective Michelle finds particularly important. Audiobook Experience: Given the book's dense text, listening to it as an audiobook could offer a more immersive and engaging experience. Representation Observation: We note a predominance of male characters in the book, suggesting potential implications for inclusivity and diverse perspectives. Parent-Child Resource: Michelle evaluates the book as a valuable resource for fostering financial conversations between parents and children, awarding it a commendable 4 out of 5 rating.   Thank you for listening to the START WELL™ Podcast. Be sure to subscribe for more enriching discussions on personal and finance and growth. 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).

    29 min
  4. Girls that Invest - Michelle Flanagan

    APR 26

    Girls that Invest - Michelle Flanagan

    START WELL™ Podcast: Episode 9 - Girls that Invest   Our Resident Book Reviewer Michelle Flanagan helps us discuss 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 by reviewing 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 face from 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 directness with 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 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).

    35 min
  5. The Money Sandwich with Marc Bineham

    APR 18

    The Money Sandwich with Marc Bineham

    In this episode of the START WELL™ podcast, we speak  with Marc Bineham, author of "The Money Sandwich." With over three decades of experience as a financial adviser, Marc brings a wealth of insight into the challenges faced by the "sandwich generation" – those caught between the responsibilities of raising children and caring for aging parents.   Marc's book is a beacon of guidance for individuals navigating this complex phase of life. He understands the time constraints that pull people in multiple directions, often hindering their ability to plan effectively for their financial futures. What sets "The Money Sandwich" apart is its recognition of the diversity of circumstances among its readers. Marc advocates for a step-by-step approach tailored to each individual's unique situation, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution.   One of the book's standout features is Marc's pragmatic approach to financial management. He emphasizes progress over perfection, encouraging readers to work within their means and make incremental strides towards their goals. Rejecting the notion of strict budgets or demonizing credit cards, Marc empowers his audience to take control of their finances without feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations.   Central to "The Money Sandwich" are the real-life stories woven throughout its pages. Drawing from his extensive client interactions, Marc shares anecdotes that illustrate the diverse challenges and triumphs experienced by individuals in similar circumstances. From managing money with his own daughters to educating grandparents on the intricacies of investing, Marc offers practical insights gleaned from personal and professional experiences alike.   A key concept discussed in the book is the "Goldilocks phenomenon" observed in retirement planning. Marc highlights how individuals often gravitate towards the default option within their superannuation, opting for a balanced approach out of fear of making the wrong choice. However, he cautions against this mindset, as it can significantly impact long-term returns and hinder financial growth. By challenging conventional wisdom and providing actionable advice, Marc empowers readers to make informed decisions that align with their financial objectives.   Tune in to this enlightening episode as Marc Bineham shares his expertise on navigating the financial complexities of the "sandwich generation" and offers invaluable insights for securing a prosperous future. 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).

    42 min
  6. Girls Just Wanna Have Funds - Molly Benjamin

    APR 11

    Girls Just Wanna Have Funds - Molly Benjamin

    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 and relatable, making finance accessible to all. The book covers everything from the basics of money management to more advanced strategies for financial success. Concepts like risk profiles are explained in relatable terms, 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 the lack of financial literacy among women and decided to host an informational event. The success of this gathering led to the creation of Ladies Finance Club in 2018, which has since expanded to Australia and gained widespread recognition. With over 35,000 women attending various events and workshops, Ladies Finance Club has become a trusted resource for financial education. Molly's Mission: Molly's ultimate goal is to empower women to achieve financial independence, giving them control and freedom over their lives. Through her work with Ladies Finance Club and the publication of her book, Molly is making significant strides in fulfilling her mission. 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 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).

    39 min
  7. Wonder Woman's Guide to Money - Natasha Janssens

    APR 5

    Wonder Woman's Guide to Money - Natasha Janssens

    In Episode 6 episode, we dive into the world of money management and wealth building with Natasha Janssens, the author of "Wonder Woman's Guide to Money." Natasha shares insights from her book, which is designed specifically for busy women looking to take control of their finances amidst the chaos of daily life. Key Points Discussed: Natasha's book is divided into three sections, and in this episode, we focus on the first section, which is all about laying the foundation for financial success. The book challenges common misconceptions such as not having enough time and not being good with money, providing practical strategies to overcome these barriers. Lightening the Load: Natasha emphasizes the importance of lightening the load of commitments and caring duties in life to create space for focusing on money management. Discussing how couples can share responsibilities at home to free up time for financial planning and self-improvement. Role Modelling Good Money Management: Natasha underscores the significance of role modelling good money management practices, especially for children, to instil healthy financial habits from a young age. Natasha is also the founder of Women with Cents came to Australia as an 18-year-old Serbian refugee with no money and no support. Despite the challenges, she learned quickly from her experiences and has since become an award-winning accountant, mortgage broker, financial planner, and money coach for women. Natasha has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the finance industry, winning the Women in Finance awards for Women’s Community Program of the Year from 2017 to 2020. She was also named the Institute of Public Accountants ACT Member of the Year in 2017 and 2020.   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).

    41 min

About

Welcome to the START WELL™ podcast – I'm Dawn Thomas, your host. As a mother, financial adviser, and researcher, I'm here to guide you on empowering the next generation's financial journey. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or the coolest aunt or uncle, join me in exploring how impactful conversations about money can shape a young person's future. During each episode, we will be unpacking a resource or money concept, so you can take the conversation home with you. Let's harness their superpower of time and your superpower of influence to ensure they Start Well and thrive for a lifetime.

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada