🎙 Episode 192: From Hidden to Heard – Tendai Rukarwa on Reclaiming Financial Confidence and Self-Worth

What happens when you're highly educated, professionally successful, yet quietly overwhelmed by money? For Tendai Rukarwa, an auditor and chartered accountant, her personal relationship with money lagged far behind her professional expertise—until she decided to confront it head on.

In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas is joined by Tendai Rukarwa, who shares a raw and deeply relatable journey of realising that growing up doesn't automatically mean growing in financial maturity. From deferring financial responsibility to others, to learning the hard way how to budget, negotiate, and build self-trust—Tendai’s story is one of awakening, learning, and ultimately empowerment.

Together, they explore the emotional, cultural and psychological roots of money habits, the importance of financial visibility for women, and why learning to trust yourself with money is one of the greatest acts of self-leadership.

✅ Why professional success doesn’t always translate into financial confidence

✅ How upbringing, culture, and gender roles shape our money mindset

✅ The cost of avoiding financial responsibility—and how to step into your power

✅ The difference between theoretical knowledge and real-world money application

✅ Why self-trust and grace are critical to building true financial independence

✅ How to move from scarcity to abundance, even without changing your income

✅ The “penguin mindset” and how it can help you manage emotional and financial discomfort

✅ Practical steps to begin transforming your money story at any age

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Tendai:

✨ “You can grow up, gain degrees, climb the career ladder—yet still have the money mindset of an 8-year-old.”

✨ “When you allow yourself to breathe, you make space for money to flow towards you.”

✨ “You don’t need to announce your struggles to the world—but you do need to be honest with yourself.”

✨ “The world is expansive. You have a place in it—and a place in its wealth.”

✨ “Sometimes, you’re the penguin overheating in the middle. You look fine to others, but inside, you’re struggling.”

Tendai is an auditor, keynote speaker and advocate for financial education and resilience.

🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: Tendai Rukarwa

📱 Instagram: @tendairukarwa

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zkbhDpu7/

📢 Tune in now to hear how Tendai turned her quiet money struggles into a powerful story of confidence, purpose and joy.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙 Episode 191: Financial Confidence for Women in Business – Reclaiming Your Worth and Power Around Money

Do you ever feel like you're holding back when it comes to your finances? That somehow, despite running a successful business or being accomplished in your career, money still feels like a source of stress or uncertainty?

In this episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, host Lesley Thomas dives deep into the vital topic of financial confidence for women in business. This isn’t just about profit margins and spreadsheets—it’s about mindset, self-worth, and embracing your value without apology.

Lesley explores the emotional and psychological roots of financial hesitation, how upbringing and societal conditioning can impact women’s beliefs around money, and what it truly means to show up confidently and lead from a place of financial empowerment.

Whether you're a business owner, leader, or someone ready to feel more at ease with your finances, this episode offers practical tools and mindset shifts to support you in stepping fully into your worth—personally and professionally.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ Why financial confidence is a mindset, not just a skill set.

✅ How childhood beliefs and early money stories can still shape your business decisions today.

✅ The difference between knowing your numbers and owning your financial power.

✅ Why visibility, pricing, and self-promotion are crucial to building true confidence.

✅ Practical steps to shift out of fear and into financial clarity.

✅ How to break free from guilt, shame, or hesitation when it comes to money.

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:

✨ “You cannot be financially confident until you first acknowledge the value you bring to the table.”

✨ “We inherit our money stories long before we start writing our own chapters—it’s time to edit them consciously.”

✨ “Financial empowerment for women is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.”

💡 Empowerment Begins with Awareness

This episode is your invitation to challenge what you’ve been told about money, leadership, and self-worth—and to start making financial decisions from a place of confidence, not conditioning.

📢 Tune in now and take your first step towards financial freedom, on your terms.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙 Episode 190: Building Confidence, Changing Futures – Louise Hill’s Journey with GoHenry and Financial Literacy

What does it take to empower a generation of children to become financially confident? For Louise Hill, it all started with a simple realisation: young people were moving into a digital world, but their financial education hadn’t caught up.

In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas sits down with Louise Hill, co-founder of GoHenry, to explore Louise’s personal money story, her early lessons in resilience and confidence, and how a kitchen-table idea grew into a pioneering movement for children's financial empowerment.

Together, they discuss the emotional side of money, the gaps in financial education, and how small, practical changes can shape powerful futures. Louise also shares what drives her continued passion for ensuring every child in the UK has access to meaningful financial literacy from a young age.

✅ How early experiences shape our confidence with money and spending

✅ Why Louise started GoHenry—and how it grew into a global brand

✅ The emotional journey behind teaching children financial independence

✅ Why financial literacy must start in primary schools—not secondary

✅ The life-changing potential of simple money habits like saving and budgeting

✅ How cross-party support could transform the UK's financial future

✅ The powerful link between financial confidence, opportunity, and wellbeing

✅ How real-life stories from families prove the long-term impact of early money education

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Louise:

✨ "Financial education is not just a life skill—it’s a life changer."

✨ "We were living in a digital world, but still giving our children cash."

✨ "Confidence with money starts with regular, simple habits—even if it’s just 20p a week."

✨ "Every child deserves to believe in the art of the possible for their future."

GoHenry helps young people build financial confidence by combining a pre-paid card with a simple app, empowering children and teens to save, spend, and manage money responsibly.

🔗 Find out more at: gohenry.com

📢 Tune in now to hear Louise’s remarkable journey—and find out how we can all play a part in creating a financially confident future for the next generation.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙 Episode 189: Focus on the Controllables – Taking Charge of Your Money in a Shifting Economy

With headlines full of global uncertainty and economic upheaval, it’s easy to feel powerless when it comes to your financial future. But in this empowering solo episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas reminds us that while we can't control the markets, elections, or global leaders—we can take full ownership of our personal economy.

This episode is a call to step away from fear-based thinking and into radical responsibility. Lesley walks you through how to lead yourself financially—even when the world feels unstable—and offers practical strategies for regaining clarity, confidence, and control over your money.

✅ Why fear is a costly distraction—and how to respond to uncertainty with intention

✅ What “focusing on the controllables” really means in a financial context

✅ Three actionable steps to rebuild trust in your own financial leadership

✅ How to stop outsourcing your security to politics, partners, or perfect timing

✅ The role of self-awareness and emotional clarity in financial decision-making

✅ How your thoughts, behaviours, and habits shape your results—especially during uncertain times

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:

✨ “You may not be able to control the global economy—but you can absolutely lead your personal economy.”

✨ “You are the rescuer. You are the decision-maker. And you are more financially powerful than you’ve ever been led to believe.”

✨ “Whether you think you can or you can’t—you’re right.”

💡 Your Financial Power Starts with You

This episode is your invitation to step away from fear, shift your focus, and take action where it matters most—within your control.

📢 Tune in now and discover how to anchor yourself in confidence, clarity, and calm—no matter what the headlines say.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What shapes our relationship with money? For Paul Fox, it began with old shillings from his great-grandfather and a bob-a-job week that involved a little help from mum’s purse. In this episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas is joined by Paul Fox, a financial wellbeing expert at the Money and Pensions Service, for a conversation that’s full of honesty, experience, and practical wisdom.

Paul’s money story is one of early graft, life lessons, and financial turning points—from racking up debt as a student to learning the power of ‘save as you earn’, becoming mortgage-free, and helping others do the same. Together, Lesley and Paul unpack how personal experiences shape financial behaviours, why financial education is vital at every age, and how we can all become more confident in navigating our financial lives.

✅ Why early conversations about money at home really matter

✅ How work ethic and money habits are formed in childhood

✅ The dangers of buy now, pay later culture and disconnection from money

✅ How Paul got into debt—and the turning point that changed everything

✅ Why financial education is essential, accessible, and empowering

✅ The importance of pensions, even if they feel boring or too far away

✅ How to talk about money without jargon or shame

✅ Where to find free, impartial support through the MoneyHelper service

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Paul:

✨ “We spring clean our homes—but not enough people take the time to spring clean their finances.”

✨ “You don’t need to be perfect with money—you need to be intentional.”

✨ “Saving into a pension in your 20s feels irrelevant—until you wake up in your 50s and wish you had.”

✨ “Financial education doesn’t stop at school. We’re all still learning.”

Paul recommends MoneyHelper.org.uk, a free, government-backed service offering impartial guidance, tools, and one-to-one support across everything from debt and budgeting to pensions and retirement planning.

📞 Call the helpline on 0800 138 7777

🌐 Visit: www.moneyhelper.org.uk

📢 Tune in now to hear Paul’s story—and take the next step towards a more confident, informed relationship with your money.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙 Episode 187: Time for a Financial Spring Clean – How to Declutter Your Finances and Refresh Your Money Mindset

As spring arrives with lighter days and a sense of renewal, it’s the perfect moment to take stock—not just of your wardrobe or home, but your finances too.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas shares how to give your money mindset a much-needed seasonal reset. Just like a spring clean clears physical clutter, this conversation is all about clearing financial fog, unhelpful habits, and emotional baggage that may be weighing you down.

Lesley walks you through practical, empowering ways to refresh your relationship with money—so you can enter this new season with confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of control.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ Why spring is the perfect time to re-evaluate your financial goals

✅ Simple steps to declutter your money mindset and reduce financial overwhelm

✅ How neglected financial habits can impact your wellbeing

✅ Tips for reviewing subscriptions, expenses, and financial systems

✅ The emotional and practical benefits of greater financial clarity

✅ How to align your money choices with the life you truly want to live

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:

✨ “We often tidy up our homes come spring—but your finances deserve just as much attention.”

✨ “Clarity with your money creates space for confidence, peace of mind, and better choices.”

✨ “You don’t need to start from scratch—you just need to start with intention.”

💡 Give Your Finances the Fresh Start They Deserve

If you’re ready to shake off the cobwebs and bring more intention to your financial life, this episode is the perfect starting point.

📢 Tune in now and start your financial spring clean with confidence and purpose.

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you find yourself constantly saying yes to others, even when it comes at a cost to you? Are you worried about disappointing people, avoiding conflict, or seeking approval at the expense of your own financial stability and emotional wellbeing?

In this episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas explores the true cost of being a people-pleaser—not just emotionally, but financially. Many of us don’t realise how much our fear of setting boundaries can impact our bank accounts, business decisions, and long-term financial success.

Join Lesley as she breaks down how people-pleasing manifests in our financial lives, why it’s crucial to shift from seeking external validation to owning your worth, and how to make empowered financial choices—without guilt.

✅ How people-pleasing affects your money mindset and financial decisions.

✅ The hidden financial costs of always saying yes—to family, friends, and colleagues.

✅ Why undercharging, overgiving, and avoiding money conversations hold you back.

✅ The connection between self-worth, pricing, and financial independence.

✅ How to set clear boundaries without feeling guilty or selfish.

✅ Practical steps to shift from ‘people-pleaser’ to ‘money-confident’.

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:

✨ “If you struggle to say no, you might be paying the price financially without even realising it.”

✨ “True financial confidence comes from valuing yourself first.”

✨ “Being generous is wonderful—but not at the expense of your own financial security.”

It’s time to stop undervaluing yourself, set healthy financial boundaries, and take control of your money with confidence.

📢 Tune in now and start making empowered financial choices—on your terms!

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you waiting for the right moment, a financial rescue, or a sign to finally take control of your money? The truth is—no one is coming to save you. The power to change your financial situation is in your hands, and in this solo episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas shares how to shift from financial procrastination to empowerment.

This episode is a practical, action-driven guide to understanding your financial reality, breaking through limiting beliefs, and building true money confidence—because your financial future is your responsibility and your power.

✅ Why no one else is responsible for your financial success—only you.

✅ How to stop waiting and start taking financial action today.

✅ The key money myths keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

✅ How to build a ‘soft landing fund’ for financial security.

✅ Why knowing your numbers is the first step to money confidence.

✅ How to shift from a scarcity mindset to an income-creation mindset.

✅ Small, consistent steps that lead to long-term financial success.

🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:

✨ “Money confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about taking action with what you already know.”

✨ “If you’re waiting for someone else to fix your finances, you’ll be waiting forever.”

✨ “Your financial security isn’t a given—it’s something you build, one decision at a time.”

This episode is packed with practical steps you can take right now to own your financial future. No more waiting—your time is now.

📢 Tune in now and take the first step towards true financial confidence!

Connect with Lesley Thomas

Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook

My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/

Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas

Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas

Book a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.