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Let’s Talk Money and More

#202 Lessons from the Book Launch: Confidence, Visibility + Doing It Anyway

Season 1, Ep. 202

🎙 Episode 202: The Unfiltered Lessons I Learned from Launching Parents, Let’s Talk Money


In today’s deeply personal episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas opens up about the powerful, transformative lessons she’s learned from writing and launching her book, Parents, Let’s Talk Money. This episode isn’t a how-to on writing a book; it's a reflection on the identity shifts, challenges, and profound realizations that come with putting your voice and message out into the world.


Lesley shares the real, unfiltered behind-the-scenes journey of writing a book aimed at helping parents raise financially confident children. From battling self-doubt to celebrating quiet victories, this episode is filled with honest insights that apply to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their own life or community.


💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:


✅ The personal transformation that comes from writing and launching a book

✅ Why confidence isn’t a prerequisite for taking bold action

✅ How a book launch is more about conversation and connection than perfection

✅ Why visibility and identity work are key to creating meaningful change

✅ The power of legacy and how your impact is measured

✅ How to handle the pressures of launching something meaningful and personal

✅ Why it takes a village to raise financially confident children and how you can play a role

✅ The wider reach of Parents, Let’s Talk Money and how it’s resonating across generations


🧠 Key Takeaways:

✨ "Confidence isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you build by taking action, especially in moments of doubt."

✨ "Your legacy isn’t about the likes or viral posts; it’s about the quiet revolutions, the ripple effect, and the lasting impact you have on your family."

✨ "Visibility work is identity work. If you don’t see yourself as an expert or a leader, no one else will."


📚 Join the Movement

Parents, Let’s Talk Money isn’t just a book; it’s an invitation to start meaningful conversations and raise the next generation with the financial confidence many of us didn’t have. Whether you’re a parent, godparent, grandparent, or anyone with influence over young people, this book offers guidance on shaping a healthier, more empowered relationship with money.


👂 Keep the Conversation Going

If this episode resonated with you, Lesley would love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on social media, leave a review, or simply pass the message on to someone who could benefit. Let’s continue to build a ripple effect of financial confidence, one conversation at a time.


🎧 Tune in now


Purchase the Amazon Best Seller - ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book – on sale now !


https://amzn.eu/d/0qj3BEf


Or for the perfect Parent and Teen Bundle also buying Money@Home, the online Financial Literacy and Success Mindset programme


https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/money-at-home-sales


Connect with Lesley Thomas


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

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  • 204. #204 The end of an Era…

    09:15||Season 1, Ep. 204
    🎙 Episode 204: The End of an Era and the Beginning of Something NewIn today’s special episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas reflects on the journey that has led to the end of this chapter. After 204 episodes, this marks the final episode in its current form before a seasonal break and a fresh new beginning. While this may sound like a goodbye, it’s really a pause—a moment to clear space for something new, something even more aligned with the evolution of Lesley’s work, her message, and what she now feels called to share with the world.This episode is a thank you, a reflection, and an invitation to join Lesley as she transitions to something exciting in the future.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The key lessons Lesley has learned over 204 episodes of Let’s Talk Money and More✅ How money and identity are intrinsically linked✅ Why money confidence isn’t loud—it’s steady and built from within✅ Why your story is more important than your strategy when it comes to money✅ The powerful reflection that your relationship with money is a reflection of your relationship with yourself🧠 Key Takeaways:✨ "You can't separate money from identity. Your financial behavior always comes back to how you see yourself in relation to money."✨ "Money confidence isn’t about pretending to have it all together. It’s about quiet self-trust and making aligned decisions."✨ "Your story matters more than your strategy. The story you tell yourself determines whether you’ll succeed or sabotage your own efforts."🔗 What’s Next?While this is the final episode of Let’s Talk Money and More as you know it, Lesley is taking a short break to refresh and create the next chapter. Make sure you’re subscribed to stay updated and be the first to know when the new show drops. It will be different but with the same heart—the deep desire to talk about money in a human, real way.👂 Stay ConnectedLesley wants to hear from you! If you’ve been inspired by the episodes, share your thoughts, your story, or simply reach out. Join her on this journey as the podcast transforms into something new and exciting.🎧 Tune in now to reflect on the lessons learned and get ready for the exciting future ahead. Take care, and remember—your financial future begins with your money identity.Purchase the Amazon Best Seller - ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book – on sale now !https://amzn.eu/d/0qj3BEfhttps://www.waterstones.com/book/parents-lets-talk-money-if-youre-not-talking-to-your-teen-about-it-who-is/lesley-thomas/9781914428425Or for the perfect Parent and Teen Bundle also buying Money@Home, the online Financial Literacy and Success Mindset programmehttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/money-at-home-salesConnect with Lesley ThomasMy website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Have you downloaded the FREE 2025 Money Mindset Playbook https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook
  • 203. #203 Sami Wunder - What’s Your Money Story?

    45:02||Season 1, Ep. 203
    🎙 Episode 203: Navigating Money, Love, and Success with Sami WunderIn this enlightening episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas sits down with love and success coach Sami Wunder, who shares her fascinating journey from humble beginnings to building a multi-million-dollar empire. Sami opens up about how her relationship with money has evolved over the years and the powerful lessons she’s learned about abundance, vulnerability, and balancing love with career success.Sami's story is a testament to how our beliefs around money and success can shape our relationships and ultimately influence our financial reality. She dives into her personal growth, shifting from the belief that money equals hard work to understanding that it’s about creating value and living in alignment with abundance.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Sami shifted her mindset from scarcity to abundance and its impact on her business success✅ The connection between love and money—how striving for one often mirrors the other✅ The role of ego in money and relationships, and how Sami worked through it✅ How to find balance between a successful career and a loving partnership✅ The importance of teaching children the value of money without instilling a scarcity mindset✅ Why creating value is more important than just working hard for money🧠 Key Takeaways:✨ "Money is neutral energy. It’s not about being attached to it but understanding it’s a tool for freedom and abundance."✨ "Abundance doesn’t mean no work; it means working in alignment with your joy and creating value for others."✨ "In relationships, love isn’t about competition. It’s about collaboration and creating a space where both partners can thrive."🎧 Tune in nowConnect with Sami WunderWebsite - www.samiwunder.comYouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/SamiWunderFacebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/wunderdivasFacebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/samiwundercoachingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/samiwundercoach/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@samiwunderBlog - https://www.samiwunder.com/sami-wunder-blog/(FREE) Lead Magnet for Relationships: Get him obsessed https://start.samiwunder.com/get-him-obsessed-video-series-sign-up/Purchase the Amazon Best Seller - ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book – on sale now !https://amzn.eu/d/0qj3BEfhttps://www.waterstones.com/book/parents-lets-talk-money-if-youre-not-talking-to-your-teen-about-it-who-is/lesley-thomas/9781914428425Or for the perfect Parent and Teen Bundle also buying Money@Home, the online Financial Literacy and Success Mindset programmehttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/money-at-home-salesConnect with Lesley ThomasMy website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Have you downloaded the FREE 2025 Money Mindset Playbook https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook
  • 201. #201 John Webb - What’s Your Money Story?

    49:53||Season 1, Ep. 201
    🎙 Episode 201: Building a Strong Credit Foundation – How to Teach Your Teens About Credit Scores and Money ManagementWhen it comes to financial literacy, understanding credit scores is crucial—but many teens don’t learn the basics until it’s too late. In this enlightening episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas speaks with financial expert John Webb about how young people can start building a healthy credit score—and why it’s so important for their future.Drawing from his own personal experiences with debt and credit, John breaks down the essentials of managing money, using credit wisely, and setting a strong financial foundation. He shares practical tips for both teens and parents on how to avoid common pitfalls and start building good credit early.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why understanding credit scores is crucial for young adults✅ The importance of managing credit responsibly and avoiding debt traps✅ Practical steps for building a strong credit history from scratch✅ How to navigate the confusing world of credit cards and loans✅ The most common myths about credit scores—and what to do about them✅ Why being proactive about credit from an early age can lead to better financial opportunities🧠 Key Takeaways:✨ “A healthy credit score is like a financial passport—it opens doors to everything from mortgages to mobile phone contracts.”✨ “It’s not about avoiding debt entirely, it’s about knowing how to manage it and paying it off on time.”✨ “Being aware of your credit score early on will give you a head start when you need financial products down the road.”📚 The Power of Financial EducationUnderstanding credit is just the beginning. John emphasizes how important it is to teach teens not only the mechanics of credit but the emotional resilience needed to make smart money choices.🔗 Want More Resources on Credit Management?Check out Experian’s free tools for monitoring your credit score and get started on your journey to financial confidence today. The link is available in the show notes.👂 If You’re a Parent or EducatorIt’s never too early to start teaching the next generation about credit. Discuss the basics of credit scores with your teen, share your own experiences, and encourage them to start tracking their credit score today.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to help the young people in your life build a strong financial future—one smart decision at a time.Connect with John WebbJohn Webb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwebb1912/Experian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/experian/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperianUKInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/experian_ukPurchase the Amazon Best Seller - ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book – on sale now !https://amzn.eu/d/0qj3BEfOr for the perfect Parent and Teen Bundle also buying Money@Home, the online Financial Literacy and Success Mindset programmehttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/money-at-home-salesConnect with Lesley ThomasMy website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomasConnect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomasBook a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121
  • 200. #200 Celebrating 200 episodes of the podcast!

    13:52||Season 1, Ep. 200
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  • 199. #199 Why Your Money Confidence Shapes Every Conversation You Have (or Avoid)

    10:10||Season 1, Ep. 199
    🎙 Episode 199: Five Bold Questions to Build Real Money Confidence – Why Self-Trust Matters More Than StrategyCan you truly feel confident with money if you’re still performing certainty while quietly avoiding the truth?In this heartfelt solo episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas shares a powerful listener story—and five bold questions designed to break financial habits and shift your mindset.Inspired by a recent email from a former client, Lesley reflects on the invisible ways money confidence (or the lack of it) shapes our conversations, our choices, and even our self-worth. Because as Lesley says, how you do money is how you do everything.With thoughtful prompts and compassionate guidance, this episode is a gentle wake-up call for anyone who’s ready to move beyond shame, ditch the “perfect plan,” and instead build real, lasting confidence in their relationship with money.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why financial confidence is more about self-trust than spreadsheets✅ The importance of asking bolder, braver questions around money✅ How to spot when you’re performing money confidence vs. actually feeling it✅ Five transformative prompts to interrupt old patterns and ignite growth✅ Why honest reflection is more powerful than trying to “get it right”✅ How small pauses can create big financial shifts🧠 Key Takeaways:✨ “Money confidence isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about trusting yourself to ask the right questions.”✨ “You don’t need to do this perfectly. You just need to stop doing it alone.”✨ “Bad habits aren’t broken by willpower alone—they’re broken by self-awareness and better questions.”📚 Coming Soon: Lesley’s New Book – Parents, Let’s Talk MoneyLaunching 17 July, this is the must-read guide for parents who want to raise financially confident teens—without needing to be experts themselves.🔗 Join the waitlist today via the link in the show notes to receive early access, exclusive bonuses, and live launch event invites.👂 Ready to Begin?Start with one question. Reflect honestly. And remember, every shift begins with a conversation—even the ones you have with yourself.🎧 Tune in now and rediscover the confidence to talk about money—with your family, your future, and yourself.Connect with Lesley ThomasSign up to ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book Waitlisthttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/book-waitlist-2025My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomasConnect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomasBook a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121
  • 198. #198 Clare Ford - What’s Your Money Story?

    41:22||Season 1, Ep. 198
    🎙 Episode 198: What Are We Really Teaching Our Children About Money?In this enlightening episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas sits down with Clare Ford, educator, mindset coach, and founder of Switched On Global, to unpack the powerful and often unspoken money messages we pass down to the next generation.Clare shares her own rich and multi-layered money story, beginning with childhood memories of jingling pennies and Beano comics, evolving into deeply ingrained beliefs about hard work, debt, and the social etiquette of money talk. Together, Clare and Lesley explore the roots of these narratives—often handed down from parents and grandparents—and how they still influence adult behaviours, especially for women in business and mothers raising financially aware children.From student debt and budgeting breakdowns to the emotional disconnection created by cashless transactions, they reflect on how today’s young people are entering adulthood with limited tools to manage real-world financial challenges. Clare speaks candidly about her experience helping her own children—and the teens she coaches—develop better habits, stronger financial foundations, and the confidence to ask questions society often discourages.Whether you're a parent, a student, or someone wanting to reshape your money beliefs, this episode offers a compassionate and practical look at how we can all do better—starting at home.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why many women carry unconscious guilt around money—and how to break free from it✅ How parents unknowingly pass on beliefs that shape a child’s financial future✅ The real impact of debt culture on today’s students and graduates✅ Why financial education is everyone’s responsibility—and how to start small✅ How Clare helps teenagers manage exam anxiety and make confident decisions about their next steps in life✅ The urgent need to bring practical financial literacy into both schools and homesAbout Clare Ford:Clare Ford is an award-winning educational consultant and coach. As the founder of Switched On Global, she supports teenagers, parents, and educators in unlocking learning potential, managing academic stress, and making empowered choices for the future.Connect with Clare FordLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-ford-switched-on-education-and-parenting-expert/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/switchedoncollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/switchedonacademy/X: https://x.com/ClareFordCoachConnect with Lesley ThomasSign up to ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book Waitlisthttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/book-waitlist-2025My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomasConnect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas
  • 197. #197 Money Without Mastery: Why Teenagers Need More Than Pocket Money Lessons

    10:03||Season 1, Ep. 197
    🎙 Episode 197: Why Money Alone Isn’t Enough – Teaching Teens Financial Confidence That LastsIs giving your teenager money enough to prepare them for the future? In this eye-opening solo episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas challenges that very assumption.Prompted by an upcoming presentation to sixth formers in London, Lesley explores why financial confidence must go beyond bank accounts and budgeting—and why adults have a crucial role in shaping how the next generation relates to money. Because when we hand young people financial resources without teaching them how to use them wisely, it’s like handing over the keys to a car without any driving lessons.Through relatable stories, real-life examples, and insightful questions, Lesley urges parents, educators, and policymakers to rethink financial education—not as a list of do’s and don’ts, but as a foundation for lifelong empowerment.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why having money doesn’t mean having mastery✅ The role of peer pressure, identity, and instant gratification in teen spending✅ Why high-achieving teens aren’t always financially confident—and how to spot it✅ Real-world cautionary tales from public figures who lacked financial literacy✅ The difference between money management and money confidence✅ Three powerful reflections to spark meaningful money conversations at home🧠 Key Takeaways:✨ “Financial pressure doesn’t always come from a lack of money—it can come from the fear of saying no.”✨ “Mastery isn’t about maths or intelligence. It’s about self-trust, emotional resilience, and informed choices.”✨ “We must stop assuming that teens will ‘figure it out’—they need us to show them how.”📚 More Than Just a Book—It’s a MovementLesley’s upcoming book Parents, Let’s Talk Money launches this July. It’s written for parents who want to break the cycle of silence around money and raise financially confident teens—without needing to be financial experts themselves.🔗 Join the waitlist today to gain early access, live event updates, and exclusive bonus content. The link is available in the show notes.👂 If You’re a Parent, Guardian, or EducatorStart the conversation. Ask your teen what money means to them. Talk about values, choices, and mistakes. Because their financial future begins with your voice—and your presence.🎧 Tune in now and learn how to help the young people in your life become financially confident—one conversation at a time.Connect with Lesley ThomasSign up to ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book Waitlisthttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/book-waitlist-2025My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomasConnect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomasBook a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121
  • 196. #196 The Conversation That Changes Everything: Why I Wrote “Parents, Let’s Talk Money!”

    12:23||Season 1, Ep. 196
    🎙 Episode 196: Parents, Let’s Talk Money – Why Your Teen Needs You to Start the ConversationIn this powerful solo episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas takes listeners behind the scenes of her upcoming book “Parents, Let’s Talk Money – If You’re Not Talking to Your Teen About It, Who Is?” and shares the deeply personal and universal “why” behind writing it.Lesley invites you into the heart of the book’s message: that financial confidence isn’t taught in classrooms—it’s modelled at home. Whether you’re navigating your own money story or wondering how to prepare your teenager for the financial realities of the world ahead, this episode offers insight, reassurance, and a practical starting point for meaningful change.This episode is more than a book preview—it’s a rallying call for every parent ready to break the silence around money, rewrite generational patterns, and become the financial role model their teen needs.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why financial confidence must start at home—not at school✅ The hidden ways your money story is shaping your teen’s beliefs✅ The inspiration behind Lesley’s new book and who it’s written for✅ Practical steps to start healthy, honest money conversations with your teen✅ How to role model confidence—even if you’re still figuring things out yourself✅ Why perfection isn’t the goal—presence and intention are🔹 Memorable Quotes from Lesley:✨ “How we do money is how we do everything.”✨ “You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need the willingness to start.”✨ “Financial confidence isn’t taught in a classroom. It’s modelled at home.”✨ “Let your teen see you growing. That’s how they learn they can grow too.”📚 More Than Just a Book—It’s a MovementLaunching on 17 July, Parents, Let’s Talk Money isn’t about budgets and spreadsheets (though you’ll find practical tools, too). It’s a heartfelt, empowering manual for parents who want to change the narrative around money—for themselves and for the next generation.Whether you’re a confident business owner or someone still figuring out your financial footing, this book—and this episode—will give you the courage to begin.💡 Ready to Start?Lesley shares three impactful shifts you can make today:Replace silence with curiosityAudit your own money storyMake one intentional conversation count this week🎁 Join the Waitlist for Exclusive BonusesGet early access to the book, live launch invitations, and behind-the-scenes extras by signing up via the link in the show notes.👣 You’re Already AheadIf you’re even thinking about your impact on your teen’s money mindset—you’re doing better than you think. And you're not alone.🎧 Tune in now to discover how you can become the author of your child’s money story.Connect with Lesley ThomasSign up to ‘Parents, Let’s Talk Money’ Book Waitlisthttps://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/book-waitlist-2025My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomasConnect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomasBook a Free 30 mins call with me - https://calendly.com/lesley-themoneyconfidenceacademy/30mins-121