Money Secrets

Money Secrets

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Money Secrets episodes

  • Small Business Introverts (Ep#25)

    Think introverts can’t succeed in small business? Think again.

    Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi unpacks what it really means to be an introvert—and why the business world desperately needs more of them at the table. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “too quiet” or “not outgoing enough” to run a thriving brand, this one’s for you.

    From choosing the right marketing style to showing up as a speaker, Fi shares practical tips for embracing your natural energy—and building a business that works with you, not against you.

    You’ll leave this episode with a huge permission slip to stop forcing the strategies that drain you… and start designing a business that lets your quiet power lead.

    🎧 Hit play and find out why introverts are built for long-term, sustainable success.


    What you’ll learn in this episode: 

    • Why being introverted doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for business. We unpack the difference between being shy and being an introvert—and why it matters more than you think.
    • The power of quiet strengths. Deep thinking, great listening, and thoughtfulness aren’t soft skills—they’re serious business superpowers.
    • How introverts can market without burning out. From writing and podcasting to one-on-one connections, Fi shares ways to show up that actually feel good.
    • Why most traditional workplaces reward extroversion—and why small business doesn’t have to.
    • Tips for making events, networking, and even public speaking work for you (yes, even if you'd rather crawl under a blanket).
    • You don’t need to be loud to lead—you just need a strategy that suits your energy.
    • A reminder that business is big enough for all of us—introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between.
    • ________________________________________________________________________

      We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

      In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

      Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

      ________________________________________________________________________

      Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

      If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

      Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

      Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

      ________________________________________________________________________ 

      This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

      ________________________________________________________________________

      16 min
    • Back Yourself and Your Financial Decisions (Ep#24)

      Why Backing Yourself Matters More Than Being Right.

      Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi shares a juicy mindset shift that could transform the way you make financial decisions in your business: what if backing yourself matters more than always getting it “right”?

      If you’ve ever second-guessed a pricing change, spiralled after a spend, or stalled on a big decision out of fear of getting it wrong, this one’s for you. Fi breaks down how decision speed, self-trust, and learning through action can unlock serious momentum in your business.

      This episode is a nudge to trust yourself, make the move, and stop waiting for the perfect answer (spoiler: it rarely comes). You’ll walk away with a clearer way to approach financial decisions—and a lot more kindness for past-you, too.

      🎧 Hit play and start making decisions with more confidence, clarity, and trust in yourself.


      What you’ll learn in this episode: 

      • Why “backing yourself” matters more than being right. We all want to make the “right” financial decision—but trusting your gut and backing your calls is actually more powerful for long-term business growth.
      • The hidden cost of indecision..  Taking weeks (or months!) to make a call is already costing you money. Fi shares how speed and clarity are crucial to momentum.
      • What to do after a decision doesn’t go to plan. Regret and backtracking drain your energy—Fi walks you through how to assess your approach instead of spiralling into self-doubt.
      • How to build your decision-making muscle. The more you trust yourself, the faster and better your decisions become. It’s a skill, not a personality trait.
      • Your next best move isn’t perfect—it’s just the next one. You don’t need a perfect plan to act. You just need a clear intention and the willingness to see it through.
      • Trust builds confidence. When you back yourself consistently, you create a business that reflects your leadership—not your second-guessing.
      • ________________________________________________________________________

        We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

        In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

        Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

        ________________________________________________________________________

        Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

        If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

        Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

        Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

        ________________________________________________________________________ 

        This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

        ________________________________________________________________________

        14 min
      • Ep#23: The lies we're told about money: with Mia and Nataleigh.

        There’s a lot of noise out there about what it really takes to make money in business—and much of it is built on outdated ideas or straight-up lies.

        So in this episode, we’re calling it out.

        Fi is joined in-studio by two powerhouse businesswomen—Nataleigh Elzein, founder of Pinch Studios, and Mia Fileman, founder of Campaign Del Mar—for a grounded and energising conversation about the true relationship between strategy, marketing, and sales.

        Together, they unravel the harmful lies we're told about money, talk honestly about what it takes to grow a business with longevity, and explain why mindset, messaging, and knowing your numbers are all critical parts of the money-making equation.

        Whether you’re in your first year of business or your fifth, this one’s going to shift how you see yourself, your pricing, and your potential.

        🎧 Hit play now—because money doesn’t have to be hard, but it does have to be intentional.

        ________________________________________________________________________

        We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

        In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

        Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

        ________________________________________________________________________

         Key Learnings from the Interview

        • “Money is hard to get” is a lie: Nataleigh shares how cultural conditioning shaped her beliefs about money—and why those old narratives no longer serve us as business owners today.

        • Business is hard—but not impossible: Fi and Mia reflect on the social media myth of overnight success and the reality of building a business over years, not weeks.

        • Know your numbers: If you’re scared to look at your finances, that’s your first red flag. Tracking your revenue, profit, and expenses is a non-negotiable if you want to make more money.

        • Mindset matters as much as strategy: Nataleigh’s turning point came when she invested in personal development. You can’t confidently sell your services if you don’t first believe in your own value.

        • The hustle myth is outdated: More work doesn’t always equal more money. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what actually moves the needle—like refining your strategy, ideal client targeting, and offer positioning.

        •  Small business isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay: Mia offers a refreshingly honest take on why not everyone is cut out for entrepreneurship, and why there’s no shame in choosing a stable career path instead.

        •  Make the obvious, obvious: One of the biggest sales blockers? Not clearly communicating what you do, who it’s for, and what results it delivers. Don’t let clever branding get in the way of clarity.
           

          Mia from Campaign del Mar:

          Campaign Del Mar Founder, Global Marketing Strategist and the ‘REAL’ Emily in Paris

          Besides earning the nickname "The Campaign Lady," Mia is an expert marketing strategist and founder of Campaign Del Mar. You'll love her hard-hitting, no-BS marketing expertise honed by 20 years in the industry. She is a widely published writer for publications including Social Media Examiner, Mumbrella, Marketing Mag, Smart Company, and Better Marketing.

          The first decade of her career was spent in brand management roles for global consumer brands Vegemite, Kraft, Maybelline, and BIC in France. She's a full-time trainer, mentor, and advise who works with SMEs and marketers to drive business results—strap in for your journey to marketing glory.

          Connect with Mia:

          Web: https://www.campaigndelmar.com

          IG: https://www.instagram.com/campaign_del_mar/

          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miafileman/

           

          Nataleigh from Pinch Studios:

          Hi, I’m Nataleigh.

          Your business and marketing strategist. The sidekick you knew you needed, but didn’t know where or how to find me… lucky we changed that! I’m an early-rising, English-breakfast tea-drinking, read-a-new book weekly, Sydney to Melbourne frequent flyer, who’s here to help you create movements, not moments in your business. Your business success is not a flash in the pan moment, instead I purely focus on getting sustainable results that will keep on giving over time, building up your business to reach the ears and hearts that need to hear your soul-filled message the most. This is why when I look at your business, I dive into every aspect- sales, marketing and operations. I truly believe that for a business to work, these sectors need to be working together towards your main business goals. It is only then when you will achieve ROI and feel that "pinch me" moment over and over again. I'm here and ready to get your movement out into the world!

          Connect with Nataleigh:

          Web: https://www.pinchstudios.com.au/

          IG: https://www.instagram.com/pinchstudios.au/

          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/me/

           ________________________________________________________________________

          Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

          If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

          Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

          Or check out the Peach Business website here to find out more about Fi.

           Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

          ________________________________________________________________________

          This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land.

          ________________________________________________________________________

           

          18 min
        • Ep#22: Business Strategy, Marketing & Sales: The Money Making Trifecta with Nataleigh and Mia

          Too much marketing, not enough sales. Too much strategy, not enough messaging. Too much fluff, not enough clarity. Sound familiar?

          If you’ve ever felt like your business has all the right pieces, but you’re still not seeing the income (or impact) you want—this episode is for you.

          Today on Money Secrets, Fi is joined by two powerhouse businesswomen: Nataleigh Elzein, founder of Pinch Studios and marketing/sales consultant for purpose-driven disruptors, and Mia Fileman, founder of Campaign Del Mar and Fi’s business bestie and partner in Ripple Festival. 

          Together, they dig into the essential (and often misunderstood) relationship between business strategy, marketing, and sales—and how you can align all three to grow your revenue with purpose.

          This is one for every business owner who’s tired of winging it and ready to build a money-making machine with heart.

          🎧 Hit play now—because confidence in your business strategy creates confidence in your bank account.

          ________________________________________________________________________

          We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

          In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

          Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

          ________________________________________________________________________

           Key Learnings from the Interview

          • You Can’t Market What You Can’t Describe: If your messaging is vague, unclear, or full of fluff, you’re losing sales. Your audience needs to know what you do and how you do it—quickly.

          • Sales Requires Ownership, Not Just Offers: As a service provider, it’s your job to confidently lead the conversation and guide your clients to the best outcome.

          • Marketing and Sales Are Not Silos: Nataleigh compares it to a tango—sales and marketing need to move together. Let sales inform your marketing, and vice versa.

          • Repetition + Consistency = Results: Your audience won’t see everything you post. Repeat yourself across platforms and make your messaging consistent from Instagram to your website.

          • Your Website Needs to Work Smarter: Your homepage and about page should clearly explain who you help, what you do, and what results people can expect. Your “about” page? It’s actually about them, not you.

          •  Follow-Up Is a Superpower: Most sales require 8–12 follow-ups, not 3–5. Build a structured follow-up process using tailored, relevant resources—not “Just checking in” emails.

          •  Selling = Serving: When done well, selling isn’t pushy—it’s supportive. Helping people see how your offer works for them is part of delivering value.
             

            Nataleigh from Pinch Studios:

            Hi, I’m Nataleigh.

            Your business and marketing strategist. The sidekick you knew you needed, but didn’t know where or how to find me… lucky we changed that! I’m an early-rising, English-breakfast tea-drinking, read-a-new book weekly, Sydney to Melbourne frequent flyer, who’s here to help you create movements, not moments in your business. Your business success is not a flash in the pan moment, instead I purely focus on getting sustainable results that will keep on giving over time, building up your business to reach the ears and hearts that need to hear your soul-filled message the most. This is why when I look at your business, I dive into every aspect- sales, marketing and operations. I truly believe that for a business to work, these sectors need to be working together towards your main business goals. It is only then when you will achieve ROI and feel that "pinch me" moment over and over again. I'm here and ready to get your movement out into the world!

            Connect with Nataleigh:

            Web: https://www.pinchstudios.com.au/

            IG: https://www.instagram.com/pinchstudios.au/

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/me/

             

            Mia from Campaign del Mar:

            Campaign Del Mar Founder, Global Marketing Strategist and the ‘REAL’ Emily in Paris

            Besides earning the nickname "The Campaign Lady," Mia is an expert marketing strategist and founder of Campaign Del Mar. You'll love her hard-hitting, no-BS marketing expertise honed by 20 years in the industry. She is a widely published writer for publications including Social Media Examiner, Mumbrella, Marketing Mag, Smart Company, and Better Marketing.

            The first decade of her career was spent in brand management roles for global consumer brands Vegemite, Kraft, Maybelline, and BIC in France. She's a full-time trainer, mentor, and advise who works with SMEs and marketers to drive business results—strap in for your journey to marketing glory.

            Connect with Mia:

            Web: https://www.campaigndelmar.com

            IG: https://www.instagram.com/campaign_del_mar/

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miafileman/

            ________________________________________________________________________

            Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

            If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

            Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

            Or check out the Peach Business website here to find out more about Fi.

             Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

            ________________________________________________________________________

            This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land.

            ________________________________________________________________________

            31 min
          • Ep#21: Don’t Wait Two Years to Start Paying Yourself

            Why Paying Yourself Makes Your Business Stronger (Right From the Start)

            Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi tackles one of the biggest myths in small business: “You shouldn’t pay yourself for the first two years.”

            If you’ve ever heard this advice and assumed it’s just how business works, it’s time to rethink everything. Fi breaks down why this mindset is outdated, how financial privilege plays a huge role in who can afford to work for free, and why paying yourself from the start actually makes your business stronger, not weaker.

            Using a powerful analogy about trees and wind (and a little lesson from her beloved fiddle leaf fig), Fi shows how putting financial pressure on your business from day one forces it to grow solid foundations—ones that actually support you, rather than leaving you scrambling years down the track.

            🎧 Hit play now and start paying yourself like the business owner you are.


            What you’ll learn in this episode: 

            • The privilege behind “not paying yourself.” Many people who go unpaid in the early years of business have savings, a high-earning partner, or other financial security that allows them to do so—but this isn’t realistic for everyone.
            • Your business needs resistance to grow. Just like trees need wind to become strong, your business needs the financial pressure of paying you to develop sustainable pricing, smart spending habits, and long-term viability.
            • Not paying yourself leads to bad habits. If you don’t have to cover your own salary, you might underprice your services, overspend on unnecessary expenses, or assume that “one day” you’ll magically be able to afford to pay yourself.
            • Service-based businesses should be paying themselves from day one. If you’re running a service business, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be factoring in your salary immediately—your pricing should reflect your value from the start.
            • Product-based businesses? Plan to pay yourself within six months. While some product businesses need time to become profitable, it’s still essential to build a clear path to paying yourself sooner rather than later.
            • Money clarity = better decision-making. When you’re committed to paying yourself, you naturally become more intentional about your pricing, expenses, and where your money is actually going
            • ________________________________________________________________________

              We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

              In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

              Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

              ________________________________________________________________________

              Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

              If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

              Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

              Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

              ________________________________________________________________________ 

              This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

              ________________________________________________________________________

              15 min
            • Ep#20: Money doesn't Grow on Trees

               When you start seeing money as something that can grow from your ideas, skills, and connections, you open yourself up to a new level of financial freedom and success.

              Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi challenges one of the most common (and outdated) money beliefs we’ve all heard before: “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”

              If you’ve ever struggled with money mindset blocks, hesitated to charge what you’re worth, or felt resistance when investing in yourself or your business, this episode is going to flip your thinking on its head. Fi unpacks why this belief is rooted in the past, why the way we earn money today is radically different from previous generations, and how shifting your mindset from scarcity to opportunity can change the way you make, manage, and invest money.

              🎧 Hit play now and start seeing money differently.


              What you’ll learn in this episode: 

              • Money is everywhere. Unlike previous generations, we live in a time where knowledge, ideas, and creativity can turn into income—sometimes overnight.
              • Your mind is your biggest asset. In today’s knowledge economy, business success isn’t just about physical labor—it’s about the value you bring through your skills, ideas, and expertise.
              • How old money beliefs hold you back. If you grew up hearing “money doesn’t grow on trees,” you might be subconsciously blocking yourself from making, spending, or investing money in ways that actually help you grow.
              • Flip the script. Instead of seeing money as something scarce or hard to get, reframe it: Money grows wherever I put my energy, creativity, and effort.
              • Small business owners turn ideas into income. Whether it’s launching a new service, selling a new product, or positioning yourself as an expert, the ability to make money is in your hands—literally.
              • ________________________________________________________________________

                We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

                In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

                Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

                ________________________________________________________________________

                Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

                If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

                Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

                Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

                ________________________________________________________________________ 

                This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

                ________________________________________________________________________

                12 min
              • Ep#19: It's not Your Job to be Affordable

                You’re Not Here to Be Affordable—You’re Here to Be Valuable

                Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi breaks down one of the biggest mindset shifts small business owners need to make: stop trying to be "affordable" and start focusing on being valuable.

                If you’ve ever worried about pricing yourself too high, felt pressure to compete with big businesses, or found yourself giving discounts just to make a sale—this episode is for you. Fi dives into why affordability is not your job as a small business owner (and why chasing it could actually be hurting your business). Instead, she shows you how to reframe your pricing strategy around the  value you bring to your clients—because people don’t just pay for a product or service, they pay for convenience, expertise, transformation, and trust.

                🎧 Hit play now and start charging based on value, not affordability.


                What you’ll learn in this episode: 

                • Low pricing is a volume game. Big companies can afford to charge less because they operate at scale, cutting costs through bulk orders and automation. Small businesses don’t have that luxury—but they don’t need it, either. Your strength is in offering a higher level of service, personalisation, and expertise that big brands simply can’t match.
                • Your job is to be valuable. Instead of focusing on being the cheapest option, focus on delivering an exceptional product or service that makes life easier, better, or more exciting for your customers.
                • Being helpful ≠ being valuable. Many business owners start out volunteering, discounting, or working for free to “be helpful”—but real value comes when people are excited to pay for what you offer.
                • People pay for transformation. Customers aren’t just buying a service or a product—they’re investing in a solution, convenience, speed, exclusivity, or expertise. The more you align your offer with their real needs, the more valuable you become.
                • Make it easy for clients to say YES. Whether it’s customising your offer, simplifying your checkout process, or offering different service levels, reducing friction makes it easier for the right people to buy from you.
                   
                • ________________________________________________________________________

                  We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

                  In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

                  Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

                  ________________________________________________________________________

                  Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

                  If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

                  Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

                  Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

                  ________________________________________________________________________ 

                  This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

                  ________________________________________________________________________

                  14 min
                • Ep#18: Why We Need Ripple Festival - Mia and Fi

                  Build Your Own Stage: The Story Behind Ripple Festival

                  Want to know what really goes into creating a game-changing business festival? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi is joined by her brilliant business bestie and co-founder of Ripple Festival, Mia Fileman, for a no-filter chat about the why behind this big, bold, beautiful idea.

                  Ripple Festival isn’t just another business event. It’s a full-body experience designed to bring small business owners together in a way that feels exciting, immersive, and truly unforgettable. In this episode, Fi and Mia pull back the curtain on what’s happening behind the scenes, why vanilla conferences just aren’t cutting it anymore, and why building your own stage might just be the most powerful move you can make in your business.

                  🎧 Hit play now to hear how two small business owners are reimagining what connection, community, and celebration really look like.

                  Be part of the story. When you buy a ticket, you're not just coming to an event—you’re joining a community and helping shape the experience. From choosing musicians to recommending speakers, the early adopters are in the driver’s seat. Get your tickets here


                  What you’ll learn in this episode: 

                  • Why we need Ripple Festival. Spoiler: it’s not just about being in a room—it’s about being part of something that lasts far beyond two days. Fi and Mia break down what makes an event memorable and why most business conferences are missing the mark.
                  • Build your own damn stage. Tired of waiting to be “picked”? So were they. Hear how Fi and Mia are stepping into the spotlight—on their terms—and why more business owners need to create the opportunities they deserve.
                  • Why representation matters. Ripple Festival is committed to reflecting the real small business community—one that is diverse in every way. It’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about building something truly inclusive from the ground up.
                  • Music, comedy, creativity—oh my! This isn’t just a business event. It’s a celebration of culture, creativity and connection. From indie musicians to brilliant speakers you won’t find on the usual circuits, Ripple is about bringing the best of everyone together.
                  • The truth about funding a festival. Fi and Mia get honest about how they’re bootstrapping the whole thing, what they’ve let go of to make room for Ripple, and why healthy businesses make room for bold risks.
                  • Why did they stop drinking? This one might surprise you. Hear how cutting alcohol out of their lives has helped them show up with more clarity, more energy, and more intention while building something this big.
                  • An antidote to loneliness. Business can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to be. Ripple is designed to connect you with people before you even arrive, so you walk into the festival already knowing faces in the crowd.
                  • ________________________________________________________________________

                    We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

                    In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

                    Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

                    ________________________________________________________________________

                    Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

                    If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

                    Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

                    Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

                    ________________________________________________________________________ 

                    This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

                    ________________________________________________________________________

                    37 min
                  • Ep#17: Revenue is Vanity

                    The #1 Reason Businesses Fail (And How to Make Sure Yours Doesn’t!) 

                    Psst! Want to hear a money secret? In this episode of Money Secrets, Fi unpacks one of the most important (but often misunderstood) financial truths in business: the difference between revenue, profit, and cash flow—and why understanding this could be the key to your long-term success.
                    You’ve probably heard the phrase “Revenue is vanity, profit is sanity, but cash is reality.” But what does that actually mean for your business? Fi breaks it all down, sharing why revenue alone isn’t enough, why profit matters more than big sales numbers, and—most importantly—why cash flow is what really keeps your business alive.

                    If you’ve ever celebrated a revenue milestone, wondered why your bank account still feels tight, or struggled to get paid on time, this episode will shift the way you think about money in your business.

                    🎧 Hit play now and start managing your cash flow like a pro.


                    What you’ll learn in this episode: 

                    • Revenue is vanity. Those flashy “I made seven figures in 3 minutes” headlines? They don’t tell the full story. Revenue only matters if you’re actually keeping some of it.
                    • Profit is sanity. Profit is what’s left after covering your expenses. If your costs are swallowing up your income, you don’t have a business—you have a financial problem.
                    • Cash is reality. You can’t pay your bills with revenue or profit—you pay them with cash in the bank. If your cash flow isn’t steady, even a profitable business can go under.
                    • Late payments can kill your business. If you’re always waiting for invoices to be paid, it’s time to change your approach—whether that’s batching invoices or shifting to upfront payments.

                    • ________________________________________________________________________

                      We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

                      In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

                      Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

                      ________________________________________________________________________

                      Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

                      If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

                      Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and LGBTQIA+ business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

                      Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

                      ________________________________________________________________________ 

                      This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

                      ________________________________________________________________________

                      14 min
                    • Ep#16: When Sales Calls Feel Icky: Interview with Joyce Watts

                      Selling and managing money are non-negotiable skills for business growth—and Joyce’s story is proof that you can learn to be comfortable with both.

                      If you’ve ever hesitated to ask for money, struggled with pricing, or felt uncertain about managing your business finances, this episode is for you.

                      Today on Money Secrets, we’re joined by Joyce Watts, founder of Tot Hot or Not and Bright Smart, and a digital powerhouse in the media and marketing world. Joyce has built Melbourne and Victoria’s biggest family travel site while also running a successful digital consultancy.

                      In this conversation, Joyce opens up about her journey from sole trader to company owner, how she learned to embrace financial clarity, and the challenges of selling—even when she knows her work delivers real value. She shares the mindset shifts that helped her scale, the power of clear financial goals, and why selling is a skill every business owner needs to master (even if it feels icky at first).

                      If you’ve ever put off sales calls, avoided looking at your numbers, or questioned how to scale your income, Joyce’s story will show you that clarity and confidence in money change everything. 

                      Hit play now—because the more we talk about money, the easier it gets. 🎧

                      ________________________________________________________________________

                      We’ve come so far as a society in many ways, but money is one of the areas where progress hasn’t been enough. If we want to tip the scales in favour of marginalised people, it starts with understanding the secret: money in small business.

                      In this podcast, Money Secrets, host Fiona (Fi) Johnston—Chartered Accountant, small business advocate, and impact enthusiast—dives into the conversations we need to have about money. The secrets that once stayed behind closed doors (or on the golf course) are finally out in the open.

                      Fi’s mission? To get more money into the hands of good people, like you. She believes small businesses have the power to change the world, and the key to making a bigger impact is to make—and manage—more money.

                      ________________________________________________________________________

                       Key Learnings from Joyce’s Story

                      • Money Mindset Matters: Joyce always talked about money but didn’t realise the impact of her own money story until she dug deeper. Recognising it gave her clarity—not just in business, but in life.

                      • Revenue vs. Take-Home Pay: Moving from a sole trader to a company meant a complete shift in how Joyce managed her money and paid herself. Understanding how to sustain a business while paying yourself well is key to long-term success.

                      • Sales Calls Feel Icky—But They’re Necessary: Even for someone as confident as Joyce, making sales calls can feel uncomfortable. But pushing through that discomfort brings results.

                      • Clarity Creates Confidence: Knowing where money is coming in and where it’s going out has completely changed Joyce’s relationship with finances—both in business and at home.

                      • Money Is Just an Exchange of Value: Joyce’s biggest mindset shift? Money isn’t emotional—it’s simply an exchange for the work and value you provide.

                        Joyce from Tot Hot or Not and Bright Smart:

                        Joyce’s passion (and mission in life) is to help your family have more fun together! Welcome to TOT: HOT OR NOT, Melbourne’s biggest family travel blog with ideas and inspiration to help you explore the best of Melbourne, Regional Victoria and the world. There are over 1000+ of Joyce’s personal reviews and tips about things to do and places to go with kids and family travel-related products and services.

                        Joyce’s family of four includes my husband T, Lady AB (a 10 year girl) and Baby 2.0 (a 8 year old boy). T’s a seventh-generation Anglo Australian, and Joyce is a first generation Chinese immigrant and the kids are Eurasian and bilingual. The family lives in inner-city Melbourne.

                        Joyce is a former intellectual property, IT and media lawyer turned entrepreneur. Joyce runs a digital marketing consultancy called Bright Smart; owns an online bike store CycleStyle and develops and produces bike-related creative experiences for children via WheelieGoodFun.com.

                        Connect with Joyce:

                        Web: https://tothotornot.com/ & https://brightsmart.com.au/

                        IG: https://www.instagram.com/tothotornot & https://www.instagram.com/brightsmartau/

                        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TOTHOTORNOT

                        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyce-watts/

                        ________________________________________________________________________

                        Thank you to everyone involved for bringing this podcast together. We are excited to hear from you with any questions, feedback or suggestions for future episodes that you might have. Send a Direct Message to @peach.business

                        If you are excited for what’s to come, please like this episode, follow the podcast and share it with your friends. We are thrilled you're here.

                        Want to find out more about Good Money Club? It's for female and non-binary business owners ready to make more money and impact. Join us?

                        Or check out the Peach Business website here to find out more about Fi.

                         Check out my FREE Pricing Training you need to set your prices for profitability.

                        ________________________________________________________________________

                        This podcast episode was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and I'd like to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land and water that I live, work and play on. I'd like to pay respect to elders both past and present, and note that sovereignty has never been ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land.

                        ________________________________________________________________________

                        14 min

                      About Money Secrets

                      From the publisher's feed

                      Financial and business strategies for purpose-led entrepreneurs. Hosted by Fi Johnston, Chartered Accountant, CFO, and impact-driven business advisor. This podcast helps small business owners make more money without working harder.