START WELL®

Dawn Thomas

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.

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S2 · E10
Thursday · 42 min
Marshmallow Money - Dr Tracey West
START WELL® Podcast Season 2, Episode 10: Helping Young People BuildReal-World Money Confidence Guest: Dr Tracey West, Founder of Marshmallow MoneyAustralia Episode Overview In the final episode of Season 2 of START WELL®, DawnThomas is joined by Dr Tracey West, financial literacy researcher, educator and founder of Marshmallow Money Australia. Tracey West created Marshmallow Money to help young people build the knowledge and confidence to make financial decisions, bringing together her background in research, teaching and financial literacy education. Together, Dawn and Tracey explore how we can move beyondsimply telling young people to "be good with money" and instead give them the knowledge, real-world experience and confidence to make informeddecisions for themselves. The conversation draws on the Marshmallow Money seriescovering saving, spending, tax, buying a car, investing and superannuation, and looks at how these resources can be used by young people, parents and educators. What We Discuss in This Episode Why Marshmallow Money?Why Tracey West created Marshmallow Money. The gap she identified between financial literacy research and what young people experiencein the real world Why financial education needs to build confidence as well as knowledge Who has responsibility for empowering young people financially:parents, schools, government, industry or all of us? Turning years of research and teaching into practical, age-appropriate resources for young people Breaking Money Down Into Real-Life Decisions Rather than trying to teach "financial literacy" as one enormous topic, Marshmallow Money breaks money down intorecognisable financial decisions. We discuss why Tracey developed separateresources around: Saving Spending Tax Investing Superannuation Buying and owning a car And importantly, how young people can connect financial concepts with thingsthat are actually happening in their lives. Listen & Follow Subscribe to START WELL® for practical conversationsthat help parents, families and young people build financial confidence from the very beginning. And if this episode resonated with you, share it with a parent,teacher or young person who could benefit from starting a new conversation about money. 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 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 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 an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).
S2 · E9
May 22 · 39 min
How They Get You - Heather Sharp
START WELL® Podcast Episode 9: How They Get You with Heather Sharp What if many of the everyday spending decisions we make aren’t really as “random” as we think? In this episode of START WELL®, Dawn Thomas is joined by Heather Sharp, Associate Adviser at The Wealth Designers, to review the book How They Get You by Chris Kohler. Together, Dawn and Heather unpack the hidden psychology behind modern spending habits and the ways businesses, marketers, pricing systems and loyalty programs subtly influence consumer behaviour. One of the things Dawn particularly enjoyed about this book was that it was written from an Australian perspective, making the examples feel highly relevant and current, especially in today’s environment of rising living costs, inflation pressures and conversations around tariffs and global economics. Dawn listened to the audiobook version, while Heather read the e-book & listened to the audio book, leading to a great discussion on how the content translated across formats. Why How They Get You feels so timely for Australian households Whether the book is useful for parents, young adults and first-time earners The psychology behind everyday spending decisions How businesses encourage us to spend more without us noticing Whether loyalty schemes actually benefit consumers Fuel pricing and supermarket pricing tricks Why unit pricing matters more than flashy discounts Shopping across multiple supermarkets: practical or exhausting? Computer games, microtransactions and digital spending habits Superannuation and how financial systems are explained to everyday readers How tariffs and global economics impact household budgets Gift cards, rewards programs and consumer behaviour The importance of teaching young people to become more conscious consumers This episode explores how awareness can become one of the most powerful financial literacy tools families can develop. Rather than focusing only on budgeting or investing, this conversation looks at the behavioural side of money: the tiny nudges, habits and systems that quietly shape how we spend. As always, START WELL® aims to help parents bring important money conversations back home to their kids in ways that feel practical, engaging and relatable. Heather Sharp is an Associate Adviser at The Wealth Designers and works closely with clients to help them build confidence and clarity around their financial decisions. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a parent, educator or young person in your life, and help us continue building financially confident future generations. 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 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).
S2 · E8
May 10 · 40 min
Atomic Habits - Michelle Flanagan
🎙️ START WELL® Podcast Atomic Habits: Helping Kids Build Habits That Stick with resident book reviewer Michelle Flanagan Episode Overview In this episode of START WELL®, we explore one of themost influential behaviour change books of our time—Atomic Habits by James Clear. With over 25 millions of copies sold worldwide, thisbook has reshaped how we think about habits, motivation, and long-term success. But this conversation goes beyond personal development. We focus on how parents can apply these ideas to help children and teens build habits that actually stick—whether it’s study routines, screen time, health, or money behaviours. Because raising capable young people isn’t aboutperfection… it’s about creating systems that make good choices easier. Key Themes We Explore Systems Over Goals We unpack the idea that: You don’t rise to the level of your goals—you fall to thelevel of your systems. While goals give direction, it’s daily systems androutines that drive results. For kids, this means shifting focus from outcomes (grades, performance) to repeatable behaviours. Identity-Based Habits One of the most powerful ideas from the book: The goal is not to read a book, the goal is to become areader. We explore how helping kids shape identity— “I’m someone who studies” or “I’m someone who shows up”— can lead to more sustainable behaviour change than external pressure alone. The Habit Loop Every habit follows a pattern: Cue → Craving → Response → Reward We discuss how this plays out in everyday life. 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 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 DisclosureStatement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision. You should consider talking to a financial adviser before making afinancial 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).
S2 · E7
May 1 · 55 min
The Art of Spending Money - Cara Graham
START WELL® Podcast – The Art of Spending Money byMorgan Housel Guest Reviewer: Cara Graham In 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 Episode Money as a Tool or a Status Symbol One of the foundational ideas in the book is that there are two ways to use money: As a tool to create a better life As a yardstick of status to compare ourselves to others The 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 Contentment A major theme throughout the book is the distinction between: Happiness: the excitement, novelty, and emotional “buzz” that often comes with acquiring something new Contentment: the ability to stop chasing and appreciate the present moment Spending, Attention and Status The 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 Asset A 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 Kids A particularly powerful chapter focuses on children and the financial lessons they absorb from us. Key reminders: Kids are always watching Children learn financial behaviour through observation The values parents display around money shape future habits A 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 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 480Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).
S2 · E6
April 22 · 42 min
Stolen Focus - Michelle Flanagan
In this episode of START WELL®, we welcome back resident book reviewer Michelle Flanagan to unpack StolenFocus by Johann Hari, a powerful exploration of why our attention is shrinking and what that means for our lives, especially for our children. We begin with a striking reality: Students switch tasks every 65 seconds, while adults manage just 3 minutes before shifting focus. In a world overflowing with information, constant notifications, and rising expectations, our ability to concentrate is under siege. This conversation explores the deeper causes behind this shift and, importantly, what parents can do to help children build focus, creativity, and a sense of meaning in their lives. What We Cover 🧠 The Attention Crisis • Why our ability to focus is declining • The impact of constant task-switching and interruptions • How distractions affect productivity, IQ, and long-term thinking 🌍 A World of Overload Living in an “information firehose” The pressure to keep up and its impact on depth and reflection Why modern life is sacrificing deep thinking and meaningful connection 🎧 The Science of Distraction The “23-minute rule” to regain focus afterinterruptions The cognitive cost of multitasking, including increased errors The long-term impact on creativity and problem-solving 🧩 Understanding the Brain The “bouncer” metaphor: how our brainsfilter information Why today’s environment overwhelms our mental filters The role of noise, open-plan environments, and constant stimulation Children, Focus, and the Modern World 🌱 Why Free Time Matters The decline of unstructured play andoutdoor time How children develop focus through curiosity and interest The importance of space to think, reflect, and explore 📱 Technology and Attention The rise of tools designed to capture andhold attention Balancing technology use without removing it entirely Protectingchildren’s ability to focus in a digital world 💭 Meaning, Autonomy, and Growth Why children need time away fromadult-driven schedules The link between focus, meaning, and emotional development How intrinsic interest builds lifelong attention skills About the Book Stolen Focus by Johann Hari explores the systemic reasonsbehind our declining attention and offers both insight and hope for rebuildingour ability to concentrate in a distracted world. About Our Guest Michelle Flanagan is our resident book reviewer on START WELL®, bringing thoughtful insights and practical reflections from powerful reads that help families navigate life, learning, 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 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 financialadviser 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).
S2 · E5
April 8 · 52 min
Get Growing - Jessica Brady
Episode Overview In 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 Brady Jessica 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 Episode Money Mindset & Learned Behaviour Why money skills are learned, not inherited Understanding how culture, family and life experiences shape money beliefs The concept of a personal “money memoir” Childhood Money Lessons What children unintentionally learn about money at home Why kids often witness financial stress but not healthy money practices How gender norms influence financial confidence and opportunity Practical Tools for Families Money shame and how it quietly shapes financial choices Why parents may need to heal their own money stories first Creatinga “money alter ego” to build new financial habits Growing Wealth Realistically The simple (but not easy) truth: spend less, earn more, or both 🎧 Listen & Follow Subscribe to START WELL® for conversations helping young people and families build financialconfidence from the very beginning. 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 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).
S2 · E4
March 30 · 47 min
The Quick-Start Guide to Investing - Glen James
START WELL® Podcast Investing Simpler,Smarter and Sooner with Glen James How do you start investing without feeling overwhelmed, intimidated, or convinced you need to be an expert first? In this episode of START WELL®, we sit down with financial educator and award-winning author Glen James to unpack the ideas behind his book The Quick-Start Guide to Investing: Learn How to Invest Simpler, Smarter and Sooner, winner of ABBA Book of the Year and Personal Finance & Investing Book of the Year. This conversation is designed for young people beginning their financial journey and for parents wanting to bring meaningful money conversations back home. Rather than chasing trends or quick wins, Glen shares why successful investing starts with understanding your values, building strong foundations, and developing habits that last decades, not days. Together, we explore how investing can become simpler, calmer, and more intentional. Episode Overview Investing often feels complicated because we start in the wrong place. Instead of focusing on products or predictions, Glen explains why understanding your why, your behaviour, and your long-term goals matters most. We discuss the realities of learning through experience, navigating online financial information, avoiding common behavioural traps, and helping young people build confidence in a world full of investing noise. This episode highlights how investing is less about perfection and more about patience, discipline, and clarity. In This Episode We Discuss Money as a tool and the difference between being rich vs being wealthy • Building strong financial foundations before investing • Why your career may be your first and most important investment • Helping young people navigate investing advice online • Behavioural traps like hype, and FOMO, • The importance of risk, time horizons, and goal setting • Learning through early investing experiences, even mistakes • Why long-term strategy matters more than short-term market movements Book Featured: The Quick-Start Guide to Investing: Learn How to Invest Simpler, Smarter and Sooner by Glen James & Nick Bradley Winner of ABBA Book of the Year and Personal Finance & Investing Book ofthe Year. About Our Guest Glen James is an award-winning financial influencer, authorand podcast host known for making money conversations practical, relatable, and accessible. He is the creator of the Money Money Money podcast and author of Sort Your Money Out. Through financial content, Glen helps Australians build confidence with money and develop sustainable long-term financial habits. Listen & Connect 🎧 Listen to more episodes of START WELL®wherever you get your podcasts. START WELL® is a podcast designed to help parents and young people start important conversations about money, values, and future choices, empowering the next generation to build financial confidence early. 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).
S2 · E3
March 23 · 49 min
Retire Life Ready - James Wrigley
START WELL® Podcast Episode 4: Retire Life Ready with James Wrigley Episode Overview In 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 Points Rethinking Retirement • Moving beyond the traditional retirement narrative of travel and upgrades Starting 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 downturns Superannuation & Early Engagement • Why superannuation is a powerful long-term structure • When young people should begin engaging with super • Breaking inherited fear or disengagement around investing Property 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 classes Behavioural Finance & Life Lessons • Client case studies and behavioural patterns around money • Whether financial fear is learned or inherited • How financial literacy conversations evolve across generations Future Conversations • Longevity and changing retirement expectations • The evolving role of the Age Pension • Moving beyond the traditional three-stage life model Book Featured Retire Life Ready by James Wrigley A 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 & Connect Listen 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 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 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).
S2 · E2
March 14 · 36 min
The 100 Year Life - Michelle Flanagan
Episode Overview In this START WELL ® episode, Dawn sits down with ourresident book reviewer Michelle Flanagan to unpack The 100-Year Life by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott. The book challenges the traditional three-stage model oflife (education, career, retirement) and explores what happens when people routinely live into their 90s, 100s and beyond. The book aims to help people see longevity as a gift and not a curse. Together, Dawn and Michelle discuss how longer lifespanswill reshape careers, financial planning, education, and the way young people think about their future. The conversation brings the ideas in to household conversations. In This Episode We Discuss: Why the “three-stage life” is becoming outdated The rise of the multi-stage life What this means for financial planning Why investing in yourself matters What this means for young people If we’re truly heading toward 100-year lives, then financialdecisions in our teens, twenties, and thirties carry even more weight. Startingwell isn’t about perfection, it’s about building habits, skills, and financial confidence early so that a longer life becomes an opportunity rather than a risk. Book Featured The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in an Age ofLongevity – Lynda Gratton & Andrew Scott Listen & Connect If you enjoyed this episode of the START WELL ® podcast, share it with a young person in your life or someone thinking about how to design a longer, more flexible future. And remember: the earlier you engage with your financialstory, the more options you create for the chapters ahead. 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).
S2 · E1
March 2 · 46 min
It's Not About the Money - Jenny Rolfe-Wallace
🎙️ START WELL® Podcast Episode 1: It's Not About the Money With Jenny Rolfe-Wallace We’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 confidence How valuing unpaid and paid work influences future earning power Why many women still feel they need to “prove” inequity exists The current workforce moment — and why it may be a powerful time for women to negotiate salary and conditions What supportive workplaces should be thinking about now: Meaningful parental leave Caring leave for those supporting ageing parents Support during menopause Paying people what they are worth Most 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 calculators Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez Money School by Lacey Filipich Who cooked Adam Smith's Dinner by Katrine Kielos Stop Fixing Women by Catherine Fox Breaking the Boss Bias by Catherine Fox Kids Ain’t Cheap by Ana Kresina Workplace Gender Equality Agency data and gender pay gap insights https://sprouteducation.com.au/its-not-about-the-money https://www.iwd.net.au/home Domestic Abuse:https://www.wa.gov.au/government/coercive-control This 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 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 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).
February 24 · 1 min
START WELL® season 2 is coming March 8th 2026!
START WELL® Podcast – Season 2 Trailer Season 2 of the START WELL® Podcast is here. This season we’re turning up the volume on early conversations, practical planning, and financial confidence at every stage of life. We open the season with a special International Women’s Day episode featuring Jenny Rolfe Wallace, exploring women, money, and the systems that shape our financial futures. This season also brings you conversations with authors behind some of the most important money books right now: James Wrigley, author of Retire Life Ready Jessica Brady, author of Get Growing Glen James, author Quick Start Guide to Investing Plus, our resident book reviewer Michelle Flanagan and guest reviewers unpack powerful reads including: The 100-Year Life How They Get You The Art of Spending At its heart, START WELL® exists to spark conversations — about money, planning, and the future. Conversations with your kids. Conversations with your partner. Conversations with yourself. Because starting well isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about starting earlier than you think you need to. Subscribe now to catch every episode of Season 2 and join us as we build financial confidence, one conversation at a time.
S1 · E13
Nov 25, 2024 · 43 min
Rich Dad, Poor Dad - Michelle Flanagan
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 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 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).
S1 · E12
May 22, 2024 · 42 min
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 alsoempowering 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 makingmoney 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 financialsituations. 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 costsinvolved. General Advice Warning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, 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 the appropriateness 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 isa Senior Financial Adviser and is an authorised representative of TWD Licensee Services Pty Ltd ABN 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services LicenceNo.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).
S1 · E11
May 10, 2024 · 36 min
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 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 Principles Parables 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 Advice Warning – This Podcast contains general advice. The information, 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 the appropriateness 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).
S1 · E10
May 2, 2024 · 29 min
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 fromtraditional finance literature by employing storytelling to convey its messages. Wealth vs. Riches: Michelle appreciates the book'sexploration 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 valuablecurrency. 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 avaluable 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 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 the appropriateness 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 88 605 064 480 Australian Financial Services Licence No.475964 (TWD Licensee Services).
S1 · E9
Apr 26, 2024 · 34 min
Girls that Invest - Michelle Flanagan
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 Advice Warning – 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).
S1 · E8
Apr 18, 2024 · 41 min
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 raisingchildren and caring for aging parents. Marc's book is a beacon of guidance for individualsnavigating 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 amongits 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 pragmaticapproach to financial management. He emphasizes progress over perfection, encouraging readers to work within their means and make incremental stridestowards 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-lifestories 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 managingmoney 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 "Goldilocksphenomenon" 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 wrongchoice. 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 tomake informed decisions that align with their financial objectives. Tune in to this enlightening episode as Marc Bineham shareshis expertise on navigating the financial complexities of the "sandwichgeneration" and offers invaluable insights for securing a prosperousfuture. General Advice Warning – 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 financialadviser 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).
S1 · E7
Apr 11, 2024 · 38 min
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 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 Advice Warning – 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).
S1 · E6
Apr 5, 2024 · 41 min
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).
S1 · E5
Mar 29, 2024 · 37 min
Money Mindset for Kids and Parents - Karen Eley
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 Advice Warning – 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).

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