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).