Articles & Questions
Every week I publish a fun new article on a money topic I think you’ll find interesting. I also answer a handful of reader questions. Subscribers to my newsletter get to see everything first — but you can browse some of my past articles & questions on this page.
My Best Articles
Not sure where to start? Below I’ve handpicked a few of my favourites. And if you like what you see, don’t forget to subscribe to my free newsletter to get new issues before anyone else!
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I Faced My Financial Fire
Dear Scott, On November 23rd last year, I finally came to my senses and left a violent relationship ‒ then began my ‘financial fire’. My ex-husband immediately did three things: clear out our bank accounts, redraw on our mortgage, and direct his salary solely to his account.
This morning I arrived home from a family holiday from Bali
I’ve just arrived home from a family holiday. As I opened my front door, I quickly realised I’d brought home a souvenir from Bali: bacteria.
The Second Chance
Hi Scott, I was so excited when I read last week that you donated some of your books to a father doing time in Bathurst Correctional Complex. I just wanted to say thank you.
Shout-out to the Heroes!
Hi Scott, I do not have a question but I just wanted to thank you for your support of financial counsellors! They are the heroes of humanity in the financial sector.
A Total Disaster
Hi Scott I am a 50-year-old widow with an eight-year-old. After nursing my partner through cancer (he lost his battle on Boxing Day), I have just refinanced my house to consolidate some credit card debt.
Should We Refuse to Pay?
Barefoot, My husband and I (stupidly) bought a timeshare in Vegas back in 1997 ‒ we had just got off a plane and were feeling very jet lagged! We have tried a gazillion avenues to offload it ‒ we even offered it to a number of charities for free.
Ground zero of the mortgage crisis
Let me take you to ground zero of the mortgage crisis. Right now the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) is receiving so many calls that they’re at breaking point.
The Reality Check
Hi Scott, I’m in trouble. I am 33 with three young kids, and waiting for my divorce.
Love Me Two Times, Baby
Hi Scott, I am 24 and earn a good income. My partner and I are getting serious, but she owes $12,000 ($10,000 car loan, $2,000 credit card) and this is annoying me as I have no debt.
My Son is $120k in Debt … and Wants Me to Save Him
Dear Barefoot, Twelve months ago my wife and I separated, so I am now ‘starting again’. We have nine children, and my eldest son has asked me to go guarantor, or have a joint loan, so he can consolidate his $55,000 credit card debt.
GoFund My Lifestyle!
Dear Scott, A young relative of mine, a single mum with a one-year-old, is in such a bad state that she posted her financial hardship story on a ‘crowdfunding’ website. The only donation she got was from her own mother — which (to me) says her mum is happy for her daughter to beg!
I’m Freaking Out Here!
Hi Scott, As I write this, the Dow Jones has suffered its “biggest fall in history”. They are saying on Sunrise that our market will plummet today.
I Was Robbed … by the Police!
Hey Barefoot, I have managed to rack up a large sum ($15,000) in parking and speeding fines. Not being able to come up with the money, I tried to pay fortnightly, but the ‘hardship’ rate was unreasonable; and when it caused food to be taken off my table, I refused to pay.
‘Zero Balance’ Is a Trap
Hi Scott, I need your help as I am 34, on maternity leave and near broke … though still inspired by my five-month-old baby. I should be secure, relaxed and focusing my energy on the bub (despite the sleepless nights).
Burning Through the Bucks, Baby
Dear Barefoot, I am 35 and engaged to the most generous guy, who I love. But we have spent $31,000 in two months!
My Partner’s Secret Debt
Hi Scott, I have read your book and love it. Using your formula I have already paid off a long-term debt.
Chasing Ghosts
Hey Scott, I am a 32-year-old soon-to-be father (with my beautiful fiancée). In the past, my spending was out of control, causing me to rack up $55,000 in credit card debt and a huge car loan.
What’s a Girl with Bad Credit to Do?
Hi Scott, In my early twenties I had a drug addiction which resulted in me having my car repossessed and taking out huge loans I could never repay. Three years on, I am in a reliable job (earning $55,000 p.
Should I Dob in My Brother to the Cops?
Dear Scott, For the last year or so, my younger brother has been doing some online share trading. Long story short, he has lost it all -- hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The Day I Got Pregnant ...
Hi Scott, My partner and I married in April 2016. A month later it came out that he had massive debts from online spending.