My Happy Money Journey: money for mid life women with Phoebe Blamey

S3 E15 From fear to fabulous in three money moves

💰 Do you ever get to the end of a pay cycle and realize you have nothing left—right before a bill arrives? It’s frustrating, stressful, and can make you feel like you’ll never get ahead. I’ve been there! Seriously!
In this episode of My Happy Money Journey, I’m sharing the three money moves that completely transformed my financial life.
✅ The Two-Account System – A simple setup that stops accidental overspending and gives you guilt-free spending money.✅ Investing Over Saving – Why relying on savings alone is keeping you stuck and how to start investing with minimal effort.✅ The Cash Cushion Strategy – How to prepare for life’s unexpected expenses without stressing or using credit.
These three moves took me from financial stress to security and confidence—without overcomplicating things (because who's got time for that).
Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
🔹 Entourage Finance & Property – Our sponsor for today’s episode. Find out how they can help you grow your wealth through property: www.entourage.com.au
🔹 The Australian Finance Podcast – A great resource to learn more about investing: www.raskmedia.com.au/the-australian-finance-podcast
🔹 ATO (Australian Tax Office) Guide on Investing & Tax Implications – Make sure you understand how tax applies to investments: www.ato.gov.au/investing
🔹 Phoebe Blamey’s Website – Check out my courses, sign up for the newsletter, and get more money management resources: www.phoebeblamey.com.au
Join the Conversation:
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Comment below, share your experience, or let me know which of these three money moves you’re going to try first.
If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend who needs to hear it.
Let’s break the cycle of financial stress together.
💡 Subscribe to My Happy Money Journey: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on your financial transformation!
🎧 Listen Now

S3_E14 Funding your Dreams with Sarah Ingram from Entourage

What if financing wasn’t overwhelming but actually empowering? In this episode, we’re diving deep into asset finance, debt consolidation, and business lending with Sarah Ingram, a highly qualified finance expert with over 10 years in the finance industry and 15 years in client management.
Sarah has built her career on helping people and businesses find the best financial solutions—whether it’s securing funding for essential equipment, upgrading to a reliable car, or consolidating debt.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ What is asset finance? It’s more than just cars—think trucks, medical equipment, office fit-outs, and more.✅ Debt consolidation myths: Is a personal loan really a bad option? Sarah breaks it down.✅ Business finance for women: Why women tend to be more risk-averse in business—and how we can change that.✅ The power of perception: How the car you drive (yes, really!) can impact your confidence and even your business success.✅ Avoiding finance traps: What to watch out for when taking out a loan, and why asking questions is your financial superpower.
Meet Sarah Ingram
Sarah’s journey into finance started with a love of cars (thanks to a little influence from her dad!) and evolved into a passion for helping people navigate the financial world with confidence. Sarah has a Bachelor of Business (International Business & Economics), an Advanced Diploma of Business (International Business), and a Certificate IV in Finance,
She believes that finance shouldn’t be intimidating—whether you’re buying a new car, financing a major business purchase, or consolidating debt, there’s always a solution that fits your needs.
Sarah works with over 25 lenders, ensuring that her clients have access to the best finance options available. She is known for her exceptional client service, deep industry knowledge, and ability to create tailored solutions that truly make a difference.
Listen Because
Sarah has a unique ability to make finance feel safe and approachable, especially for women navigating big financial decisions. From helping a client get out of debt and into a more affordable car to working with business owners who are confused about borrowing options, Sarah shares practical strategies that can help you move forward with confidence.
Whether you’re thinking about financing a car, growing your business, or just want to understand your options better, this episode is a must-listen.
Connect with Sarah
Sarah is known for her personalised approach to finance, and she’s happy to answer any questions. Get in touch with her at https://entourage.com.au/service-category/asset-finance/
🎧 Listen now and take control of your financial future!
 

S3_E13 Financial Feb Fast - how to clean up your spending NOW!

Financial FebFast: A Spend Cleanse for a Mindful Money Reset
thank you to our sponsors at Entourage: https://entourage.com.au/
Ever wonder where your money disappears each month? Struggling with rising costs and wanting to break free from impulse spending?
In this episode, I’m sharing my journey through Financial FebFast, a simple but powerful spend cleanse designed to reset your money habits.
Think of it like a juice fast for your finances—not about restriction, but about cutting out spending habits that no longer serve you and making space for what truly brings joy. Inspired by the "Buy Nothing New" challenge nearly a decade ago, this has now become an annual tradition—and this year, I’m inviting you to join us.
A spend cleanse is the perfect financial reset, and I’ll guide you through:
✔ Setting a timeframe that works for you✔ Defining what’s essential vs. what’s just a habit✔ Identifying and tackling your spending triggers✔ Finding creative, free alternatives to spending✔ Tracking your progress and reflecting on what truly matters
This isn’t about deprivation—it’s about intentionality. If you’re ready to spend smarter, save more, and find joy in what you already have, let’s do this together!
🔹 Listen now and take the first step toward your financial reset!🔹 Download your free Spend Cleanse Worksheet & subscribe for more mindful money tips on the podcast & YouTube.
#MyHappyMoneyJourney #MindfulSpending #SpendCleanse #FinancialWellness

S3_E12 Unlocking financial confidence with Scott Malcolm

Let’s be real—talking about money can feel a bit…meh. But what if financial planning wasn’t about spreadsheets and sacrifices, but about designing a life that actually makes you happy? That’s exactly what we’re diving into with Scott Malcolm, founder of Money Mechanics, and all-around legend when it comes to making money conversations fun and meaningful.
In this episode of My Happy Money Journey, we chat about ditching rigid goals, understanding your financial values, and how to actually enjoy your money while planning for the future. Scott shares why so many of us are stuck in outdated money mindsets, and how small shifts can lead to massive breakthroughs.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🎯 Why your money mindset is just as important as your bank balance💡 How to break free from outdated financial habits❤️ The secret to making money decisions that align with your real-life priorities😎 Easy steps to start feeling financially confident today
No boring jargon. No guilt trips. Just real talk about money, values, and how to make it all work for you. Grab your favorite drink, tune in, and let’s make finance fun!
Download Your Free Money Conversation Cards!Looking for a way to start better money conversations? Grab our free printable Money Conversation Starter Cards and make financial discussions fun and insightful.Download Here https://www.happymoneyjourney.com.au/pl/2148300463
Connect with Scott Malcolm:Website: Money MechanicsInstagram: @moneymechanics

S3_E11 Thriving financially in 2025

In this episode of My Happy Money Journey, we’re stepping into the new year with intention and purpose. If unfulfilled resolutions have left you frustrated in the past, this episode will help you align your goals with your values and truly thrive in 2025.
Here’s what we’re covering:
Celebrating your wins: Why small victories matter and how they keep you on track.
Shopping with intention: Supporting local businesses and making impactful choices.
Getting financially organized: Avoid unnecessary stress by staying on top of your finances.
Mindful spending: My simple strategy to turn impulse buys into savings.
Aligning goals with values: Finding joy in what truly matters, from fitness to finances.
Plus, don’t miss the exciting Money Mindset Journey giveaway to kick-start your financial mindfulness journey. 
Let’s make 2025 the year we thrive together. Tune in now—link in the show notes!

S3_E10 Holiday Harmony: Spend Smarter, Stress Less

Episode Summary:Christmas is coming, and so are the endless to-do lists, family gatherings, and, let’s be honest, the financial stress. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this episode, I’m diving into ways to make the holiday season simpler, cheaper, and way less overwhelming.
We’ll chat about how much we really spend this time of year (spoiler: it’s a lot) and why it’s time to rethink those sky-high expectations. I’ll share my favorite hacks, like why homemade gifts can save your budget and make you look super thoughtful, how to turn family gift-giving into a fun (and affordable) Kris Kringle, and why hosting doesn’t have to mean doing everything yourself.
What You’ll Get Out of This Episode:
Easy, thoughtful gift ideas that won’t blow your budget (hello, pickled red onions and chili jam!).
A fun way to simplify family gift-giving and cut costs.
Hosting tips to keep you sane, like potluck dinners and sharing the workload.
A reminder to breathe, slow down, and focus on what really matters—spending time with people you love.
By the end of this episode, you’ll feel ready to take on Christmas with less stress, less spending, and more joy. Plus, stick around for a sneak peek at an upcoming story packed with even more holiday hacks.
Resources Mentioned:
Homemade gift inspiration
How to organize a family Kris Kringle
Stress-free potluck hosting tips
So grab a cup of tea (or wine), tune in, and let’s make this Christmas one to remember for all the right reasons!

S3_E9 You Can Buy A House!

On this episode of My Happy Money Journey, we’re talking about getting you home...especially for you if you are starting over after divorce or raising kids solo.
It’s not hopeless!!! 
I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Nittaya Phommachack, mortgage broker extraordinaire and finance whiz from our sponsor, Entourage. 
Nittaya is a true champion for women and first-home buyers, she is also committed to busting myths around home ownership and getting more people home sooner…and she’s here sharing her insights and advice with you.
Nittaya stumbled into mortgage broking after uni and has turned it into over a decade of helping people achieve their property dreams. 
One of the big topics we tackle is the financial hurdles women face, especially after a divorce. 
Nittaya breaks it all down, from understanding your finances to exploring options like the government’s single parenting scheme. It’s a program that lets single parents buy a home with just a 5% deposit—making home ownership more achievable than ever, even without family financial help.
We also talk about the realities of part-time or casual work and how it affects borrowing power. Nittaya’s advice? Don’t get discouraged—take things step by step and find experts to help you navigate the process.
And for parents who want to help their kids buy a home but don’t have spare cash lying around, Nittaya shares the magic of family guarantee loans. It’s a creative way to help your kids get on the property ladder without breaking your own bank.
Nittaya also drops some amazing tips on budgeting, mindful spending, and figuring out what mortgage repayments you’re truly comfortable with (hint: it’s not just about what the bank says you can borrow), so that you can start thinking about getting home loan ready!
This episode is packed with so much gold!! 
Nittaya’s warmth and expertise shine through, and she makes what can feel like a daunting process actually seem doable—and dare I say, exciting. I can’t wait to have her back for more of these amazing conversations!
You can get in touch with Nittaya via the Entourage website: https://entourage.com.au/staff/nittaya-phommachack/

S3E8 Investing

Today, we’re unpacking the risks and rewards of investing. and I will give you four key factors for you to consider.
 
Let’s start by saying most of you are already investors. If you’ve got superannuation, you’re in the game! But like many, I had a set and forget attitude toward my super. Over time, I’ve realised how that approach can massively impact our retirement plans—and not in a good way.
 
We are lucky to be able to use our own super as a launch pad for investment strategy. So, look at your balance, the type of investments you’re holding, any fees you’re paying, and how your investments are performing. Finally the time line to access!
Investing outside of super gives you control and access to your investments. 
 
Here is the website to compare your fund:
https://www.ato.gov.au/calculators-and-tools/super-yoursuper-comparison-tool
 
That makes it easier to explore four essential considerations for investing:
 
Your Risk Profile: What’s your comfort level with risk? Knowing this helps guide your choices.
Investment Options: What are you investing in, and does it align with your goals?
Timeframe: How long do you plan to hold your investments? This can influence your strategy.
Costs: Know the fees, taxes, and other costs that can eat into your returns.
 
There are risks to any investment. The more you understand the easier it is to make a choice that lines up with your needs.
This podcast  is intended to be general in nature and is not personal financial product advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information provided and the nature of the relevant financial product having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. In particular, you should seek independent financial advice and read the relevant product disclosure statement (PDS) or other offer document prior to making an investment decision in relation to a financial product (including a decision about whether to acquire or continue to hold).

S3E7prt2 Do you really know your style? How to create your style and be seen!

Jane Vandermeer is a multi-award winning, global expert personal stylist, and we chat to her about colour, corporate and how to be seen. Recently named ‘Best International Personal Stylist CEO 2023 and 2024’ also ‘Must Trusted International Personal Stylist of the Year” this woman is amazing! Jane wanted to challenge the stereotypes about midlife women and instead of being part of the problem, choosing to be part of the solution. By developing a personal styling business that would empower midlife women to become highly visible. So if you are feeling invisible - tune in!

S3E7 part 1 Do you really know your style? How fashion can break the partiarchy!

Jane Vandermeer is a multi-award winning, global expert personal stylist, and we chat to her about colour, corporate and how to be seen. Recently named ‘Best International Personal Stylist CEO 2023 and 2024’ also ‘Must Trusted International Personal Stylist of the Year” this woman is amazing! I loved talking to Jane about fashion, and all about how we take up space.  Back when I was in corporate I wore a black or grey suit and tried to stay very neutral....now its all about daring! We can really show up for ourselves by dressing in our own style...so if you have been wanting to be seen and heard this is the episode for you! Jane wanted to challenge the stereotypes about midlife women and instead of being part of the problem, choosing to be part of the solution. By developing a personal styling business that would empower midlife women to become highly visible. So if you are feeling invisable - tune in!