Women Talking Money

Hosted by Gretchen Betts

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Apr 2026

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About the show

The Women Talking Money Podcast is where real women share real stories about their lives, their choices, and their relationship with money, without the awkwardness, judgment, or jargon. It's a warm, open space for conversations that often get brushed aside, giving voice to the experiences, challenges, and victories that shape our financial confidence. Each episode introduces a different guest with their own unique perspective. From career changes to personal milestones, money wins to the lessons learned along the way, we dive into the moments that have shaped who they are and how they think about money. These stories come from women in all walks of life, each with something honest, brave, or uplifting to share. At its heart, the podcast is about celebrating women's journeys, challenging long-standing money taboos, and encouraging open, empowering conversations that help us all feel more confident and informed. So settle in, grab your favourite brew, and join us for thoughtful, inspiring chats that remind you: talking about money isn't just ok, it's transformative.

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April 27, 2026Episode 1349 min

Unlocking Financial Confidence

Listen now and don't forget to subscribe to the Women Talking Money podcast for more conversations designed to help women feel informed, confident, and in control of their financial futures. In this episode of the Women Talking Money podcast, host Gretchen Betts speaks with Sarah Pennells, consumer finance expert and founder of Savvy Woman, about her journey from journalism into personal finance and how financial education can genuinely transform confidence and decision-making. Sarah shares how early money experiences and family influences shape the way we think and behave around money, and why recognising these patterns is so important for building long-term financial wellbeing. They explore practical steps women can take to strengthen their financial foundations, including the importance of starting pension contributions early, the power of compound growth, and how automating savings can reduce stress and build consistency. The conversation also covers the emotional side of money, including financial anxiety, common investing myths, and the confidence gap that still exists for many women when it comes to managing their finances. Sarah also highlights the importance of having key protections in place, such as wills and power of attorney, to ensure peace of mind for the future. This episode is a grounded and empowering reminder that financial confidence isn't about perfection; it's about understanding your options and taking small, steady steps forward. Follow Sarah: On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-pennells-51472011/ Website: https://www.royallondon.com/pensions/state-pension-hub/ Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch more episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Pennells and Her Journey 03:10 Early Money Memories and Family Influence 06:40 Building Financial Confidence and Education 10:15 Pensions, Compound Growth and Starting Early 13:30 Automating Savings and Reducing Money Stress 16:45 Wills and Power of Attorney Explained 19:30 Investing Myths and Gender Confidence Gap 22:10 Balancing Today's Spending with Future Planning 25:00 Money Anxiety and Emotional Barriers 28:00 Practical Steps to Improve Financial Habits 31:00 Honest Conversations About Money 34:00 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways #WomenTalkingMoney #FinancialConfidence #WomenAndMoney #MoneyMindset #FinancialPlanning #PersonalFinance #MoneyConfidence #FinancialWellbeing #InvestingBasics #MoneyEducation

April 13, 2026Episode 1138 min

From Money Stress to Money Confidence

Listen now and don't forget to subscribe to the Women Talking Money podcast for more conversations designed to help women take control of their financial lives. In this episode of the Women Talking Money podcast, host Gretchen Betts speaks with financial life planner Nila Mistry about her journey into financial life planning and how women can approach personal finance with confidence and clarity. Nila shares how early money experiences shape financial behaviours, the importance of financial organisation, and how to balance enjoying life while planning for the future. They explore the unique challenges women face in managing money, the pressures of providing for children, and why open conversations about money, including with children, are crucial. Nila also highlights how reflecting on financial goals and seeking guidance can strengthen your money mindset and support long-term financial independence. This episode is a compelling reminder that money is a tool to create the life you want and that taking control of your finances is empowering, not intimidating. Follow Nila Mistry: On Instagram: @prosperitylifeplanning On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nila-mistry-financial-life-planner-and-thought-partner-4257991 Financial Reset Guide (Free) If you're carrying financial decisions around in your head and want clarity on what really needs attention, you can download Nila's free guide here: https://subscribepage.io/OH6VfB Power Session Nila's Power Sessions give you clarity in two hours, uncovering what's really going on and pinpointing the priorities that will move you forward. https://ProsperityLifePlanning.as.me/Discovery-meeting Follow Gretchen Betts: Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nila Mistry 03:48 Nila's Career Journey and Transition to Life Planning 06:00 Early Money Memories and Their Impact 11:28 Personal Values in Financial Decisions 13:47 Balancing Enjoyment and Financial Planning 17:22 Challenges Faced by Women in Financial Planning 20:56 The Pressure of Providing for Future Generations 26:47 The Importance of Financial Organization 30:10 Creating a Growth Mindset with Financial Planning 31:32 Final Thoughts and Resources #FinancialLifePlanning #WomenTalkingMoney #MoneyMindset #WomenAndFinance #FinancialIndependence #PersonalFinance #SheFinance #LifePlanning #FinancialAdvice #WealthManagement

April 6, 2026Episode 1041 min

Empowering Women Through Financial Education | Negotiation, Financial Independence & the Gender Pay Gap

Listen now and don't forget to subscribe to the Women Talking Money podcast for more conversations designed to help women build confidence with money. In this episode of the Women Talking Money podcast, host Gretchen Betts sits down with Sharon Maguire, Chief Operating Officer at Cynergy Bank, for a thoughtful conversation about financial education, money management, and the journey towards financial independence. Sharon shares how early childhood experiences can shape our attitudes towards money and why understanding personal finance from a young age is so important. Together, they explore how financial education empowers people to make confident decisions about budgeting, borrowing, and long-term financial planning. The conversation also dives into the gender pay gap and why negotiation skills are essential for women navigating their careers. Sharon explains why many women find negotiating salaries challenging, how societal expectations influence financial behaviour, and why taking calculated risks can play an important role in both career development and financial freedom. Throughout the episode, Sharon challenges common money myths and highlights how financial independence allows individuals to make choices that truly align with their values, passions, and long-term goals. This episode is an empowering reminder that understanding money is not just about numbers; it's about confidence, opportunity, and creating a life that works for you. Follow Sharon: On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-maguire-9585885/ Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648 Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sharon Maguire 02:51 Early Money Memories and Influences 08:26 The Importance of Financial Education 12:18 Understanding the Gender Pay Gap and Negotiation 18:42 Life Events Shaping Financial Choices 22:28 Calculated Risks in Career and Finance 24:44 Unlearning Money Myths 31:52 Defining Financial Freedom 34:23 Empowerment Through Financial Independence #FinancialEducation #WomenTalkingMoney #FinancialIndependence #GenderPayGap #MoneyManagement #FinancialFreedom #PersonalFinance #CareerDevelopment #NegotiationSkills #WomenInFinance

March 30, 2026Episode 938 min

The Emotional Journey of Money | Women Talking Money with Crystal Jukes

🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about financial planning, financial literacy and women taking control of their money. Money is never just about numbers. It is about belief, identity, confidence and the stories we carry. In this episode of Women Talking Money, Gretchen Betts sits down with empowerment coach Crystal Jukes to explore the powerful link between money mindset and personal growth. Crystal shares her journey from corporate employment into building her own business, opening up about the resilience required when income feels uncertain and the emotional realities many women in business quietly face. Together, they unpack how childhood experiences shape our money habits, how the subconscious mind can influence financial decisions without us realising, and why understanding your money story is a crucial step towards financial freedom. This conversation goes beyond budgeting and spreadsheets. It explores empowerment, investing in yourself, and the importance of community support when building something of your own. Crystal speaks honestly about the messy middle of entrepreneurship, the courage it takes to back yourself, and why celebrating small financial wins can shift your entire relationship with money. Follow Crystal On Instagram @crystal.jukes and @she_thrivescollective On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystaljukescoaching/ Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy 🎧 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Empowerment Coaching 02:01 Crystal's Journey and the She Thrives Collective 03:30 Childhood Money Memories and Their Impact 09:18 Transitioning from Corporate to Self-Employment 10:48 Resilience Through Financial Challenges 14:46 Understanding Your Money Story 20:04 The Importance of Community and Environment 21:45 Investing in Yourself and Overcoming Hesitations 27:09 The Messy Journey of Entrepreneurship 28:53 Joyful Financial Moments and Financial Freedom 32:44 Final Thoughts and Money Wisdom #WomenTalkingMoney #MoneyMindset #WomenInBusiness #FinancialFreedom #PersonalGrowth

March 16, 2026Episode 731 min

Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Your Mind and Your Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Zena Hall, a confidence coach with over 27 years of experience in HR and personal development. Zena shares her journey from growing up on a farm with scarcity beliefs to embracing abundance, and how early experiences and societal expectations shaped her money mindset. They explore the connection between identity, self-worth, and financial confidence, and why shifting limiting beliefs is essential for women wanting to take control of their finances. From reframing money stories to breaking mindset blocks and building resilience, Zena offers practical advice and actionable steps to help you develop a healthier relationship with money and unlock your financial potential. This episode is packed with insights to inspire you to rethink your finances, explore your options, and grow your confidence. 🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about personal finance, business journeys, and women taking control of their money. Follow Zena: On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zena-hall-zenascoaching/ Find out more: https://www.zenascoaching.com/ The Reset Companion Guide: https://preview.mailerlite.io/forms/1446344/172044693635335926/share Zena's Coaching YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZv_JIaNgp59Ttvt13K4G-A Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn Gretchen Betts Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Zena Hall 04:41 Growing Up as a Farmer's Daughter: Early Money Lessons 06:41 Family Stories, Gender Stereotypes, and Money Beliefs 09:24 Mindset Blocks Around Charging and Worthiness 18:18 Reframing Identity Around Money and Saving Habits 28:40 Defining Financial Freedom: Removing Worry and Enabling Joy 30:12 Practical Advice: Noticing and Changing Your Money Stories #MoneyConfidence #WomenTalkingMoney #FinancialFreedom #FinancialWellbeing #MoneyMindset

March 9, 2026Episode 630 min

Money, Mindset & Freedom: Navigating Personal Finance

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Jenny Wright, a financial expert passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Jenny shares her career journey, early money experiences, and the lessons that shaped her approach to money. They discuss the importance of financial awareness, building confidence, and why open conversations about money are essential, especially for women. From understanding your budget to debunking money myths, Jenny offers practical advice and actionable steps to help you manage your money strategically and achieve financial freedom. This episode is packed with insights to inspire you to rethink your finances, explore your options, and grow your confidence. 🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about personal finance, business journeys and women taking control of their money. Follow Jenny: On LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-wright-frsa-00817626 Find the website here: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en https://maps.org.uk/en/publications/moneyview Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Financial Confidence 02:36 Jenny's Career Journey and Current Role 05:35 Early Money Memories and Their Impact 08:56 Financial Wake-Up Calls and Lessons Learned 11:38 The Importance of Financial Awareness 14:26 Money Habits and Personal Financial Styles 18:10 Debunking Money Myths 19:49 Understanding Financial Freedom 23:34 Encouraging Conversations About Money #MoneyConfidence #WomenTalkingMoney #FinancialFreedom #FinancialWellbeing #MoneyManagement

March 2, 2026Episode 544 min

From Money Lessons to Financial Freedom: Navigating Career and Independence

Ever wondered how financial independence really works in practice? In this episode of Women Talking Money, Gretchen chats with Vivine Cameron, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at the Chartered Insurance Institute, about money, career, and making choices that truly matter. Vivine shares her journey from a childhood shaped by strong money habits and community savings schemes to a successful career in learning and development. We talk about navigating financial challenges as a single-income earner, understanding the difference between good and bad debt, and why having a solid financial plan is a game-changer. Vivine also dives into the realities of the gender pay gap, balancing enjoyment with future planning, and the importance of finding what you love to do so you can achieve genuine financial freedom. This conversation is full of practical advice, empowering lessons, and inspiring stories for women looking to take control of their money and their lives. 🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about personal finance, business journeys and women taking control of their money. Follow Vivine: On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivine-cameron-80b379/ Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648 Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Vivine Cameron 01:20 Vivine's Career Journey and Background 09:27 Lessons on Money from Parents 14:20 Navigating Financial Challenges 17:50 Gender Pay Gap and Personal Experiences 21:12 Balancing Enjoyment and Financial Planning 23:43 Reimagining Relationships and Personal Contentment 24:16 Collective Financial Practices and Community Support 25:46 Cultural Perspectives on Money and Community 28:07 Navigating Financial Challenges as a Single Person 29:06 The Importance of Savings and Financial Habits 34:50 Understanding Financial Freedom and Future Planning 37:47 Key Money Wisdom for Women 40:46 Connecting with Vivine Cameron #FinancialIndependence #MoneyManagement #WomenTalkingMoney

February 23, 2026Episode 440 min

Money, Power and Independence: A Conversation Every Woman Needs to Hear | Women Talking Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, Gretchen is joined by Sarah Kirkpatrick, Chief Executive of Welsh Women's Aid, for a powerful conversation about financial literacy, independence, and women's empowerment. Sarah shares her personal money story, shaped by growing up with a single mother who taught her the importance of budgeting, financial independence, and understanding how money works. We explore how those early lessons influenced her career and her work supporting women affected by domestic abuse. We talk openly about the role money plays in relationships, particularly where financial control, communication, and decision-making are unequal. Sarah explains why knowing your financial rights matters, how financial education can protect women, and why financial competence should be the norm, not the exception. Sarah also reflects on her own financial resilience, including navigating bereavement and the impact of a house fire, and how those experiences reinforced the importance of planning ahead and asking for help when it is needed. Together, we explore why financial independence is essential for healthy relationships, personal well-being, and long-term confidence. This episode is an honest and compassionate discussion about money, power, and autonomy. If you want to feel more informed, confident, and in control of your financial future, this conversation will really resonate. 👉 If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share. It really helps more women find the podcast. Let us know in the comments what financial independence means to you. Follow Sara on: On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-kirkpatrick-61b9a688/ Welsh Women's Aid - where help and support lines plus explanations about what are different forms of abuse : https://welshwomensaid.org.uk/information-support/i-need-help/ Live Fear Free Helpline : https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Kirkpatrick and her journey 05:22 Early memories of money and financial literacy 10:38 Facing financial challenges and building resilience 15:47 Preventing financial oppression in relationships 21:12 Empowering financial moments and lessons learned 28:21 Unexpected lessons money teaches us 32:32 What financial freedom really means

February 16, 2026Episode 332 min

Navigating Family Law and Finances with Adrienne Donneky | Women Talking Money

Family law and finances can feel overwhelming, especially during separation or divorce. In this episode of Women Talking Money, family lawyer Adrienne Donneky shares over 25 years of experience guiding clients through the financial complexities of relationship breakdowns. From pensions and trusts to high-net-worth settlements, Adrienne breaks down what women need to know to protect their financial security. The conversation covers the impact of financial control in relationships, the importance of financial disclosure, and practical steps to empower women to take control of their money. Key takeaways include: Why pensions and long-term planning are essential How to navigate financial disclosure and settlements Tips for building financial independence and security The role of independent legal advice during divorce ✨ Subscribe now to Women Talking Money for more episodes packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and strategies to take control of your financial future. Don't forget to like, comment, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! #FamilyLaw #FinancialIndependence #WomenTalkingMoney Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 02:40 – Early Money Memories 05:29 – Navigating Money Worries During Separation 08:26 – Financial Disclosure and Settlements 10:59 – Empowering Women in Financial Decisions 13:47 – Importance of Legal Advice 16:12 – Gender Disparities in Financial Control 19:19 – Pension Gaps and Financial Security 21:44 – Balancing Present Enjoyment with Future Planning 24:23 – Defining Financial Freedom 26:55 – Final Money Wisdom Find Adrienne on LinkedIn should you need any support in the topics we've discussed. On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrienne-donneky-family-law-partner-54764b57/ Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy

February 9, 2026Episode 241 min

From Dining Table to Dream Business

What happens when creativity, nature, and a leap of faith collide? In this episode of Women Talking Money, Gretchen Betts chats with Jenny Pearson, founder of Halisphere, about turning a love of flowers into a thriving business started right at her dining table. As a mum of two, Jenny shares the balancing act of family, finances, and following your dreams. She talks honestly about leaving a secure career, reshaping her money mindset, and building resilience through entrepreneurship. We explore how values and purpose guide her business and philanthropy, the lessons learned from risk-taking, and the influence of family money stories on financial choices. If you are thinking about starting your own business, rethinking your finances, or chasing creative independence, this conversation is full of insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways. 🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about personal finance, business journeys and women taking control of their money. Find out more about Hallisphere here https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Halliesphere Follow Gretchen: On Instagram @shefinanceacademy On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/ Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648 Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Halisphere and Jenny's Journey 02:56 Transitioning from Civil Service to Entrepreneurship 05:29 Money Mindset and Early Influences 08:22 Rewriting Money Narratives 10:55 Family Dynamics and Money Taboos 13:52 Values-Driven Financial Decisions 16:54 Navigating Success and Family Expectations 19:32 Navigating Generational Differences 21:04 Financial Wake-Up Calls and Self-Worth 24:50 Risk and Resilience in Entrepreneurship 29:13 Defining Financial Freedom 33:07 The Emotional Aspects of Wealth and Responsibility #WomenInBusiness #MoneyMindset #FinancialFreedom