Money Confidence Starts With A Conversation

Here’s another cracking episode from the Live & Linking show, and this week I’m joined by Abby Birch. She is a financial wellbeing coach, motivational speaker, and all-round money mindset champion. We’re talking honestly (and practically) about something that affects all of us: money.

Abby shares why money is still a taboo in the UK, how shame plays a massive role in our financial decisions, and what we can do about it.

We dive into her 3Cs framework

Control

Clarity, and

Connection

This is a great way to get back in charge of your finances without judgment or overwhelm. Whether it’s budgeting, saving for a holiday, or just not panicking when the boiler breaks, Abby’s approach is simple, relatable, and full of easy wins.

We also highlight two brilliant support services—MoneyHelper and StepChange—for anyone needing free, trustworthy help. Abby’s big message? You’re not bad with money, you’ve just never been taught how to manage it—and that’s fixable. If you’ve ever felt confused, stuck, or ashamed when it comes to your finances, this one’s for you.

Connect with Abby Birch: Website – https://www.mymoneyexplained.com Email – abby@mymoneyexplained.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-birch/

Abby is a financial wellbeing and money expert with 25 years of experience helping people feel more confident and in control of their finances. She works with organisations, individuals, and neurodivergent communities to reduce financial stress and build financial resilience through practical, engaging, and stigma-free support.

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My Website ⁠https://just.15mins.day

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Live & Linking #81 with Stephanie Marshall

IIn this episode of Live & Linking, I chat with the unstoppable Stephanie Marshall. She is a multi-award-winning bookkeeper, accountant, podcaster, author, and community builder. If you’ve ever felt like you’re juggling too much, Stephanie’s story will resonate with you in all the best ways.

We dive into how she built her thriving practice ABCSUK during the pandemic, launched a podcast to help those who couldn’t afford premium services, wrote a book to fix the UK’s financial literacy gap, and even created a safe community space for introverted bookkeepers.

All in just three years!

This is a masterclass in making an impact without burnout.

We talk content, confidence, and community.

And if you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast but feel nervous?

Stephanie shares exactly how she did it. Just by starting in her PJs, one episode at a time.

Connect With Stephanie

• Website/Links: https://linktr.ee/abcsuk

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-marshall-micb-pmdip-icpa/

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My Website ⁠https://just.15mins.day

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Do you prefer the buzz of a massive flagship show—or the magic of a local, friendly one-day event?

In this episode, I’m joined (for the 16th time!) by the brilliant Caroline Hobden, the powerhouse behind Accountex.

We’re talking all things Accountex Manchester 2025 and why it’s not just a smaller version of London, but a different beast entirely. Think more connection, more community, and less time sprinting between 13 theatres.

Caroline shares some of the surprises coming to this year’s event, including AI masterclasses, MTD prep, and a special Solo Traveller Lounge for first-timers. Whether you’re coming from down the road or all the way from Devon (like me), she makes a solid case for why Manchester might be the UK’s friendliest finance event.

Then we’re joined by Dermot Hamblin, creator of the Curly Wurly LinkedIn League, to chat about who’s smashing it online (spoiler: Grace Hardy), what inspired the list, and how it’s become a bit of a legend in its own right. It’s a proper feel-good conversation—with laughs, takeaways, and the reminder that big things happen when you show up.

🎟️ Register for Accountex Manchester: https://www.accountex.co.uk 📩 Caroline’s Email: chobden@divcom.co.uk 🔗 Caroline on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/caroline-hobden-62888519

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Connect with Ashley on⁠ LinkedIn ⁠

My Website ⁠https://just.15mins.day

Connect with the show The Live & Linking Hub

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