The Broke Generation

In today's throwback solo-episode, I revisit a favourite from three years ago: being the main character of your finances. This concept is all about prioritising yourself and acting in ways that benefit you at your best. Main character energy requires big-picture thinking, and looking beyond short-term desires to make financial decisions that truly benefit your long-term goals. We'll discuss common behaviours that undermine your financial confidence, like spending to meet others' expectations or making impulse purchases that don’t align with your values. It's time to romanticise your financial progress, and appreciate the small wins that often go unnoticed. It's about making informed decisions, understanding your personal financial levels, and aligning your spending with your best self. Enjoy this journey back to 2021 and embrace your main character energy! Episode highlights: Reframe your mindset about money from a short-term, consumption-focused view to seeing it as a tool for long-term wellbeing and security. Recognise and eliminate financial behaviours that cater to others' expectations or short-term desires, and instead align spending with your personal values and goals. Celebrate small financial wins and progress, and understand that true financial freedom comes from thoughtful, intentional spending and saving. Accounts mentioned in this episode: https://www.instagram.com/myfrugalyear https://www.instagram.com/theroadblockcoach/ Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode I'm chatting about one of your FAVE topics on the pod: clothing spending. Oh, it's such a beast, isn't it?! If you relate to the feeling of outsourcing your identity to consumption, you'll love this episode.  Quick reminder: The Wardrobe Project kicks off SO soon! If you loved this episode and are ready to make changes to your clothing consumption and get hotter, happier AND richer, sign up to join us here: https://thebrokegeneration.com/the-wardrobe-project-challenge/ Episode highlights: Increasing your readiness to change by broadening your understanding of your clothing spending behaviour Why unmet expectations are at the core of the clothing spending cycle Using The Tomorrow Rule to trick your brain into making better buying decisions Using The Rule of 5 when buying clothing to help you make better decisions Focusing on what you're gaining, not what you're giving up The power of behavioural rehearsal  ORDER GOOD WITH MONEY: https://amzn.to/4bC6QV8 GET THE NEWSLETTER: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter (that just so happens to have fun bits like a hot & not list, things I didn't buy, and fun updates from behind the scenes. Head to www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook. Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I introduce the concept of a "spending runway," a term I coined to describe how certain situations and emotions can lead us to spend more money as momentum builds. These runways exist everywhere, from airport shopping and home styling to event planning and beyond. For instance, an initial purchase at an airport can lead to a cascade of spending on food, magazines, and souvenirs. Similarly, starting a home renovation project can trigger a series of additional purchases as you strive for the perfect look. By recognising these spending runways, we can become more mindful of our financial decisions and intercept unnecessary expenses before they spiral out of control. I share practical tips (that I've actually tried!) to help you identify these patterns in your own life, so you can take control of your spending habits. Tune in to discover how understanding your spending runways can lead to more intentional and satisfying financial choices. On another note, my wardrobe challenge has entered a new era… Introducing The Wardrobe Project. Find out more and register here:  https://thebrokegeneration.com/the-wardrobe-project-challenge/  Episode highlights: Discussion on how social settings, like attending events or gatherings, can create spending runways due to peer pressure or the desire to fit in. Insights into how retailers design environments to create spending runways, such as strategic product placements and promotions.. Introduction of specific budgeting techniques to counteract spending runways, such as setting spending limits and using cash instead of cards. “The airport is a really great example of an environment that creates a spending runway, not only when we're at the airport does money feel like Monopoly money like it doesn't count. We're also in the mindset of we're on holiday, we're on vacation, we can do whatever we want. This doesn't count..."Emma [10:50] “You go in for one thing, which in this instance is fairly rational. Maybe you don't need the sandals, maybe you do. It's neither here nor there, but that purchase and that environment and that intention then creates further subsequent purchases."Emma [13:06] “We like to buy, but we don't actually like to style. We think that we buy style, but we actually create style with what we've got."Emma [30:46] Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the final episode of The Comments Section, we dive headfirst into the complex nature of success. We start by exploring our personal definitions of success and how they vary, from simply getting through a tough day to making a long-term impact. We discuss the surprisingly positive power of revenge as a motivator to prove people wrong and achieve our goals. Though ‘revenge’ has negative associations, it can be a very satisfying driver of success, whether it’s in lifestyle, assets, or career, as long as you keep yourself in check. Emma also flexes her financial psychology muscles, discussing how our comfort zones around money shape our beliefs and behaviours. We touch on revenge consumption, examining how you can align your spending motivations with personal values rather than trying to prove yourself to others. We also reflect on when it’s time to pump the brakes on your revenge/success journey, emphasising the importance of regular check-ins to see your progress and setting firm milestones to properly celebrate your achievements. If you loved this series and want to see more, let us know! Is there a topic you want us to cover, jump over to our socials and let us know. Where to find Emma Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook. Where to find Victoria Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bad.bitch.money/?hl=en Newsletter: https://substack.com/@victoriashakeshaftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wish you could do a quick return on investment calculation on that roomier flight ticket you’re eyeing off? It turns out, you kinda can! In this episode, I’m exploring the concept of Return on Investment (ROI) beyond its traditional business context, applying it to personal finance and everyday life. By adopting an ROI mindset, you can build financial confidence, wellness, and a positive relationship with your money. We'll dive into six key areas: spending, savings, debt, time, career, and self-investment. By making informed decisions tailored to your individual values and goals you can maximise those returns, regardless of whether they’re financial, lifestyle, or emotional.  Thanks for investing your time listening to this episode and don't forget to give the ROI mindset a red hot go, and let me know what changes you're making over on socials! Episode highlights: Good debt or bad debt? Evaluating the ROI of debt can reveal whether it leads to valuable financial or lifestyle improvements. Treating time as a currency allows you to make decisions that maximise your personal and professional returns. Viewing yourself as an asset and investing in personal growth, skills, and well-being can yield significant long-term returns, enriching your life and career. “Cultivating an ROI mindset allows you to assess how you are evolving and how you can evolve your financial behaviour to keep up with that evolution"Emma [05:06] “Having this transactional view of what am I putting in and what am I getting out can be really beneficial in helping you reclaim the decisions that you're making."Emma [20:19] “You are your own investment vehicle, baby. You can get yourself up and get stuff out of you that enriches your life."Emma [27:14]   Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’re cutting through the delulu about manifestation, money beliefs, and the practicalities of financial growth. Dissecting the difference between productive manifestation and delusional thinking, we’re emphasising the necessity of putting in the work to achieve your goals. It’s important to adopt a balanced approach, and recognise that while manifestation can set the stage for progress, it has to be accompanied by proactive steps towards your goals. We also look at societal influences on money beliefs, particularly for women across different generations and the generational shifts currently happening in attitudes towards financial autonomy. This episode isn’t a gloomy take-down of manifestation, but an encouragement to think more critically about your attitude to ‘making this happen’. If this episode has got you curious about how you can add manifestation into you life, check out this episode Emma did with Kira Matthews: https://thebrokegeneration.com/blog/episodes/a-no-bs-guide-to-manifestation-with-kira-matthews-recast/?portfolioCats=362 Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on our socials, and also let us know what else you’d like us to discuss in the comments section!   Where to find Emma Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook. Where to find Victoria Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bad.bitch.money/?hl=en Newsletter: https://substack.com/@victoriashakeshaftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling stuck in your financial journey without a clue on how to move forward? Don't worry, you're in good hands! Today, I'm dishing out 7 essential principles to jumpstart your path to better finances this year. Whether it's reclaiming time for your passions or ditching the anxiety over looming bills, these steps may seem small but they pack a punch. Embracing progress, no matter how modest, paves the way for greater achievements down the line. Have a listen and check out another episode which you may find helpful, Is it time to raise your money standards? You can also check out a heap of resources I’ve put together here. Episode highlights: Establish some form of financial structure for effective money management, whether it's through detailed budgeting or broader categorisation. Allow yourself the flexibility to spend on certain indulgences within your budget, this can help maintain motivation and prevent feelings of restriction Visualise your long-term goals and the person you want to become can make short-term sacrifices less daunting. “[Have] some money set aside that you do not touch. Whether that is $100, whether it is $1,000, whether it is $10,000, a really good way to up your money standards and increase your commitment to what you're trying to do is getting used to having money in your possession that you do not touch."Emma [19:54] “Building in a break with your financial behaviour and financial goals before you feel like you need it can actually renew your motivation."Emma [35:14] “You need breaks from being perfect with money."Emma [34:31] Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration    Order my book, Good with Money!   Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab an $18 green smoothie, lounge on your million-dollar sun lounge, and get comfortable as we dip our toes into the delicate balance between budget and boujie. We explore the nuances of spending habits, including the Price Per Wear/Use method and how it doesn’t apply to every purchases. Have you experienced the social stigma associated with using vouchers or coupons, and the pressure to maintain appearances? We’re sharing personal experiences and struggles with confronting financial judgments from others.  There's no one-size-fits-all approach to managing money. What’s important is understanding your personal values and finding a balance that aligns with your individual lifestyles - financial growth and self-awareness are ongoing processes! Let us know on socials how you balance out your boujie-ness! Lots of love,  Emma - in Chaos - Edwards, and Victoria ‘Fairy Bread’ Shakeshaft Where to find Emma Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook. Where to find Victoria Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bad.bitch.money/?hl=en Newsletter: https://substack.com/@victoriashakeshaftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s the connection between personal branding and financial management? Drawing from my own evolving personal brand, I highlight the power of aligning your money habits with your personal values. Personal branding is a holistic representation of who you are and what you stand for, extending beyond just your career and the number on your payslip. From transforming money habits to expanding the financial window, I’m giving you some actionable strategies to take control of your financial narrative. Like with any goal, sometimes there are sacrifices you have to make, and I’m taking you through the importance of strategic sacrifice in achieving financial goals, and how you can make intentional trade-offs that resonate with your personal brand. Have a listen and check out my Piping Hot Goal Setting Power Pack to help you along on what I’m dubbing ‘Project You’, or you can order my book, Good with Money! Also mentioned: Lifestyle creep vs lifestyle elevation episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1KWXW0JzfPJJxxLc1qTxO8?si=pJ2zhpU7RuSl1Kmf9dJAeA Episode highlights: Personal branding embodies your values, beliefs, and aspirations, shaping every financial decision. My personal evolution from chaotic spender to intentional money manager. Broadening your financial perspective to unlock new possibilities and opportunities for financial growth. “Getting to know yourself is an act of financial empowerment."Emma [04:32] “The degree to which you engage with your personal brand is really just the degree to which you’re taking control of what the outcome is going to be."Emma [20:40] “Sacrifice is often the forgotten tool of our finances, and I think that when we are more considered and we do entertain how we can use sacrifice to accelerate where we’re going with our finances and do that in a way that is aligned with our personal money brand, we can grow."Emma [26:16]   Where to find The Broke Generation Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’re kicking off with the unveiling of “A Cold Day in Hell” - the official drink of the Comments Section. Listen in for our Michelin star recipe* and hacks and tips for daily living, from un-aesthetic morning routines to work lunch strategies. We’re also calling to bring back the packed school lunch for grownups, and debunking the myth that sandwiches are boring. What’s important is packing food that brings you joy and satisfaction, rather than succumbing to diet culture's restrictions, or disorganised panic spending. There are so many strategies that can make being an adult so much easier, like bulk buying and outsourcing tasks, but let us know after listening what your hacks are on our socials! Where to find Emma Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816 Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration TikTok: @the.brokegeneration  Order my book, Good with Money! Sign up to The Glue: the weekly money psychology and mindset newsletter www.thebrokegeneration.com/subscribe, where you’ll also get your free Financial Values workbook. Where to find Victoria Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bad.bitch.money/?hl=en Newsletter: https://substack.com/@victoriashakeshaftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.