Episode 5

In this episode of the Santam Insure Your Future Money Bootcamp, my co-host Maya Fisher-French and I sit down with Brian Mphakoanyane from Summit Financial to unpack one of the most important conversations in personal finance: DEBT!

From credit scores to debt counselling, Brian breaks down the realities of borrowing, the traps to avoid, and the practical steps you can take to get back in control of your money.

We talk about:
✅ The difference between good debt and bad debt
✅ How your credit score really works
✅ What to do when debt becomes overwhelming
✅ Debt review — the pros, the cons, and when it makes sense
✅ Why an emergency fund matters (even while in debt)

🎯 Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or trying to climb out of debt, this conversation is full of real, actionable insights to help you protect your future and move closer to financial freedom.

🎧 Episode 4: Budgeting as a homeowner 

Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look out for. In this episode of the Insure Your Future Money Bootcamp, Maya Fisher-French and I chat about the home-buying journey of one of her mentees, who’s right in the middle of it all.

We share the real stuff — the lessons, the “I wish I’d known” moments, and the practical tips that can save you a lot of stress (and money) down the line. From understanding what levies and maintenance costs actually mean for your budget, to why a home inspection is non-negotiable, we break it all down.

We also get into the nitty-gritty of mortgage shopping: why you shouldn’t just stick with your current bank, the benefits of a bond originator, and how some banks are offering 110% mortgages for first-time buyers.

Whether you’re a year away from buying or just starting to dream about it, this conversation will give you the tools — and the confidence — to make smart, informed decisions.

 #MoneyBootcamp  #WomanAndFinance #Podcast #personalfinance 

💬 "If I knew then what I know now…"

In this Women’s Month special, I sit down with Michelle Green, Credit Analyst at Prescient Investment Management, to unpack the money lessons she wishes she’d learned in her 20s and 30s.

From early financial mistakes to building confidence as an investor, Michelle shares practical tips, personal reflections, and why she believes the future is female and financially secure.

We talk about:
✅ Lessons from her money journey
✅ Why financial independence is non-negotiable
✅ How to choose the right investment partner

🎯 Whether you’re starting out, starting over, or just ready to do more with your money—this conversation is packed with real, relatable insights to help you take that first step toward lasting wealth.

#WomensMonth #FinancialFreedom #PrescientInvestmentManagement #WomenAndWealth #InvestInHer

You asked, we answered! 🙌🏾

A few weeks ago, I asked you to share your biggest questions about insurance — and wow, you came through! 

In this episode, I sit down with Financial Planner Maxine Muller to unpack your most common concerns. 

💡 What’s the difference between life cover and funeral cover?
📈 Why do premiums go up?
🔍 What should I look for in a policy?
💬 Do I even need insurance if I’m young and healthy?

We cover it all — in plain, simple language. If insurance has ever felt complicated or overwhelming, this conversation is for you.

To learn more 👇 

https://www.liberty.co.za 

📩 Want to reach out to Maxine?

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @maxinemuller_financial
• WhatsApp: 074 630 8980

#InsuranceLiteracy #Liberty #ProtectWhatMattersMost #InItWithYou #Woman&Finance

Episode 3:

In this episode of the Insure Your Future Money Bootcamp, we speak to Thokozani, one of my former mentees, about her journey from financial stress to confidently managing her money.

She shares practical budgeting techniques using a combination of apps, spreadsheets, and traditional methods, as well as how she manages unexpected expenses and uses her side hustle income intentionally. Thokozani also reflects on how budgeting has changed her family's approach to money, encouraging open conversations and long-term financial planning.

This episode is part of the Santam Insure Your Future series, aimed at equipping you with tools and insights to take control of your finances.

Learn more:

https://www.santam.co.za/about-us/santam-insure-your-future-money-podcast/

#InsureYourFuture #SantamMoneyBootcamp #SantamInsurance #WomanAndFinance

Episode 2:

Tax season is here and often brings stress and confusion — but it doesn’t have to. In this episode of the Santam Insure Your Future Money Bootcamp, my co-host Maya Fisher-French and I are joined by tax expert  @AndreBothmaTax to simplify the filing process and empower you to handle your taxes with confidence.

We cover everything from SARS auto assessments and why you should review them carefully, to the importance of filing — even if you’re a student or freelancer. Andre also explains provisional tax, common deductions, eFiling tips, and how to avoid costly penalties.

Whether you’re new to tax or just need a refresher, this episode offers practical, easy-to-understand guidance to help you navigate tax season stress-free.

#InsureYourFuture #SantamMoneyBootcamp #SantamInsurance #WomanAndFinance

Episode 1: 

Money isn’t just about numbers — it’s emotional. In this episode of the Santam Insure Your Future Money Bootcamp, my co-host, Maya Fisher-French and I, explore the hidden impact of financial trauma. From the money messages we absorbed as children to the silent promises we made to ourselves (like "I’ll never be broke again"), our past experiences often shape how we earn, spend, save, or avoid money altogether.

We talk about how these deep-rooted patterns show up in adulthood — whether it's anxiety around checking your bank account or overspending to feel secure. We also share practical ways to start healing and shift your money mindset.

Download the money questionnaire here: https://www.santam.co.za/about-us/santam-insure-your-future-money-podcast/ 

In this episode of the Woman & Finance Podcast, we sit down with Simon Brown, founder of Just One Lap and one of South Africa’s most trusted voices on investing and personal finance.

We unpack:
✅ How to start investing in South Africa—even with limited funds
✅ Common mistakes investors make (and how to avoid them)
✅ Building long-term wealth using ETFs
✅ Why financial education is your biggest asset

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to refine your investment strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will empower you to take control of your financial future.

🔔 Subscribe to our channel for more honest money conversations!

💬 Let us know in the comments: What's one thing you're doing to grow your investments this year?

👇 Resources & Mentions:
📍 Just One Lap: https://justonelap.com
📍 Follow Simon on Twitter: @SimonPB
📍 Woman & Finance Blog: https://womanandfinance.co.za

🎧 Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Google Podcasts.

#Investing #SimonBrown #SouthAfrica #PersonalFinance #WomanAndFinance #ETFs #WealthBuilding

Episode 4 of 4:

No Job Left Behind – The Power of Event-Based Insurance

Whether you’re a freelancer, teacher, entrepreneur, or corporate
professional — your ability to earn an income matters. But what happens
when an unexpected life event affects your ability to work?

In this episode of The Woman & Finance Podcast, we break down
event-based cover — a type of insurance designed to support every
occupation, not just the traditionally insured ones.

We’re joined by Bidvest Life to explore why this cover is especially
relevant in today’s unpredictable world, how it differs from traditional
disability cover, and what you should consider when choosing a policy.

✨ This episode is a must-listen for breadwinners, business owners, or
anyone whose income depends on them showing up daily.

Want to learn more or have someone from Bidvest Life contact you?
Fill in your details here: https://bidvestlife.co.za/podcast-series/

#WomanAndFinance #IncomeProtection #EventBasedCover
#BidvestLife #SmartMoneyMoves

Episode 3 of 4:

More women are becoming the main earners in their households — but this role often comes with added financial pressure and responsibility. In this episode of The Woman & Finance Podcast we focus on how female breadwinners can approach their finances with clarity and confidence.

We cover:
• How to create a practical financial plan based on your responsibilities
• The importance of protecting your income
• Managing household expenses and financial expectations
• How to save and invest consistently, even when supporting others

This episode is for women who are navigating the realities of being the primary income earner — whether single, married, or supporting extended family.

📌 Clear, practical advice to help you stay financially secure while taking care of those who depend on you.

👉 Want to learn more or have someone from Bidvest Life contact you? Fill in your details here: https://bidvestlife.co.za/podcast-series/

#WomanAndFinance #FemaleBreadwinner #FinancialPlanning #BidvestLife #IncomeProtection #WomenAndMoney #FinancialSecurity