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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Budgeting For Women
I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your column last week, where you replied to Roseanna, a domestic violence survivor, and provided some really sound advice on how to escape her abusive and controlling partner while still remaining financially safe.
All I Wanted To Be Was A ‘Good Mum’
My husband bailed on me when my son was just 18 months old, leaving me with the most beautiful boy in the wide world but nothing much else. He grew into a teenager but by then things were not going well. One night, I was on the floor gasping from the weight of uncertainty and crushing fear, thinking I might not be able to provide for him, or even to keep our home. All I ever really wanted to be was ‘a good mum’ but I was flattened.
How Can I Escape My Abusive Partner?
I am 29 and living with an abusive partner. After years of disinterest, he suddenly wants to ‘go Barefoot’ — now that I have a new job! I am wondering how I can follow my own Barefoot path and still keep money hidden away so I can escape this relationship. Perhaps I should follow your book with my partner AND open another account on the side. Any advice?
How Not to Buy an Island
A couple of years ago you warned retirees about investing with a company that owned Dunk Island, who were promising high returns. Well, I just read about Dunk’s repossession. You predicted this!
The crypto test
Last Saturday night I found myself standing alone at a bonfire party, staring thoughtfully at the flames. A guy walked up to me awkwardly. “Would you like a beer?” he asked.
When It Rains It Pours
A year ago I was in debt and had just had a marriage breakdown. Then I read your book. Since then, the debt has been paid off, I have an emergency fund, I have buckets! Which is a good thing, because I have just lost everything in the Port Macquarie floods. I was not covered for flooding, but I will survive. So thank you, you have really helped!
The Millionaire Orphan
When I was 18 my parents passed away, but I was in the privileged position to inherit nearly $1 million. For years I did not want to think about it and felt guilty it was now mine. So I split it across term deposits and online savers and, aside from paying for uni, left it there.
Barefooters Dig Deep
I work at Foodbank NSW & ACT, and I just want to say a huge THANK YOU on behalf of our team for the shout-out in your last column! Yesterday alone we received over $135,000 in donations, which we believe is mainly due to your call out. These donations will go a long way in helping us to continue distributing crisis hampers to those affected by the floods across the state. Thank you again!
Five podcasts that are on my playlist
“For the last week, I’ve been following a new morning routine. I wake up, meditate, then light a candle and do some affirmations …”, gushed a friend of mine. “It’s been a total gamechanger.”
Hit Me Baby One More Time?
My four siblings and I have inherited close to $100,000 between us. I am the executor, and am unsure how best to manage the funds.
My Wife is Sending Selfies to Russians
I am hoping you can solve a disagreement between my wife and myself. I have just read your answer to Lilly, who got herself tangled up with Skyway Investment in Russia. My wife has invested $1,000 with them too.
The Friendliest Store In Town
Last week’s column about the Small Business Debt Helpline was the best one you have ever done! I will be sure to pass this information on to anyone out here in the Kilkivan district who needs it.
Forty grand down the drain
If you’ve been watching the floods, you’ve probably thought to yourself: “That’s no good … but at least they’ve got insurance, right?” Maybe.
Teenage Terms and Conditions
Recently my 13-year-old son received a letter from the ANZ bank with a new debit card and the promise of a PIN to follow. The problem is, his mum and I knew nothing about it!
It’s a Scamski!
My wife is 57 and has invested thousands of dollars into an ‘education investment program’. It is a multi-level marketing program called SkyWay Investment Group (SWIG).
A Super Idea?
I have just seen a news item on a proposed policy which could see victims of domestic violence allowed to withdraw up to $10,000 from their super.
How to help out a mate
“It’s over ... it has to be.” I just can’t do this anymore. I’ve carried the stress for far too long.” On the other end of the line was Steve, the owner of a struggling retail shop.
Hyperinflation Coming?
I am one of those 20-something Reddit users who makes some ‘tendies’ off GameStop. Most of my meagre net worth is in a high-interest savings account and an ETF as I save for a home deposit.
Show Me the Money
We have three boys, aged 6, 3 and 0, and I would love to introduce your ‘Jam Jars’ with them. But, once we buy the jars (and polish off the jam), where are all these ‘coins’ coming from in a world of plastic banking? When was the last time you had a wallet full of coins?
My secret side hustle revealed
Just in case this ever leaks, I need to make a confession: This year I’ve been doing some ‘side hustle’ work as a garbo.