The Happy Saver Podcast - Personal Finance in New Zealand

115. I Feel Like I’m The Only One

Dec 16, 2025
A mother shares her journey from financial struggle to empowerment. She reveals the impact of her upbringing on her relationship with money and discusses hidden debts from her husband’s business. Through learning and determination, she transforms her finances, pays off substantial debt, and begins investing for her children’s future. With stories of tough choices, open dialogues about finances, and a newfound confidence, she emphasizes the importance of teaching the next generation to break the cycle of financial silence.
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ANECDOTE

Money Was A Family Taboo

  • Jennifer grew up in a family where money was taboo and parents lived beyond means despite teacher salaries.
  • She later helped her ageing parents quietly with bills while being denied financial transparency.
ANECDOTE

Student Loan Became Spending Money

  • Jennifer used a large student loan like spending money and left university without a qualification.
  • She carried compounding student debt for years because she ignored statements and didn't understand interest.
ANECDOTE

Hidden Business Debt Rolled Into Mortgage

  • John repeatedly ran businesses, borrowed heavily and hid tax debts, which got rolled into their mortgage.
  • Jennifer eventually took full control of business bookkeeping and bank dealings to stop further disasters.
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