Selling a business isn't just a financial transaction. It is personal, emotional and, for many, quietly overwhelming.

In this episode of the Women Talking Money podcast, Gretchen Betts is joined by Cherie-Anne Baxter-Blyth, Exit Partner at Melo and former financial planning business owner, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes when you sell the business you have poured your heart into.

Cherie-Anne shares her journey from recruitment in the education sector to growing a business from £500,000 turnover to an impressive £11.5 million, before stepping into her family's financial planning firm, Unividual. From running a business out of her parents' attic to navigating succession, retirement planning, and ultimately selling the firm, her story is honest, relatable and full of hard-won insight.

Together, Gretchen and Cherie-Anne explore the emotional impact of money, the identity shift that comes with business selling, and why clarity around personal finance and life goals matters just as much as the numbers. They also reflect on early money memories, the influence of family, and why financial education and women's finance need far more space in our conversations.

This episode is essential listening for business owners, career transition thinkers, and anyone reflecting on financial independence and long-term planning.

Expect practical wisdom, thoughtful reflection and reassurance that you are not alone in finding money emotional.

Conversation Highlights

Selling a business is one of the most emotional moments in your career

Why financial planning must include life goals, not just spreadsheets

How early money experiences shape confidence and money management

The hidden pressure women feel around success, security and independence

Why better financial education can change futures, not just finances

🎧 Subscribe for more honest conversations about personal finance, business journeys and women taking control of their money.

Follow Cherie-Anne:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/finance-exit-acquisitions/

At https://melo.co.uk/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @shefinanceacademy

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Shefinanceacademy

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Mary Lord, founder of Yay Creative, to explore her entrepreneurial journey and the financial mindset that has shaped her success.

Mary opens up about her early experiences with money, the lessons she's learned along the way, and how she balances enjoying the present while planning for the future.

From the power of financial education to the significance of vision boarding, this conversation is packed with insights on achieving financial freedom and making empowered money decisions. Mary also shares the advice she'd give her younger self and why financial literacy is especially crucial for women.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that will leave you motivated to take charge of your financial future!

In this episode, Mary and Gretchen discuss how:

Mary's entrepreneurial journey began during the pandemic and has evolved significantly.

Early experiences with money shaped Mary's understanding of earning, saving, and financial responsibility.

She highlights the importance of enjoying life today while planning for the future.

Mary stresses the need for financial literacy from a young age, especially for women.

She uses vision boards to set and refine her financial goals.

For Mary, financial freedom means living life on your terms - both now and in the future.

Follow Mary:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-lord-502b72131/

For YAY Creative https://www.linkedin.com/company/creativeyay/

On Instagram @yaycreative

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Tracy Vegro, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI), to explore the evolving world of financial advice.

They discuss the critical role of diversity in financial services, the need for trust in financial guidance, and the challenges younger generations face in managing their money.

Tracy reflects on her own financial journey, the lessons she learned from childhood, and how financial literacy has changed in the face of rising living costs and technological advancements. Together, they highlight the power of early financial education, the value of professional advice, and the importance of open conversations about money.

🎧 Tune in for an insightful discussion on breaking financial barriers, navigating life's money milestones, and making informed financial choices.

In this episode, Tracy and Gretchen discuss how:

Trust is crucial in finance, and technology is making professional advice more accessible than ever.

A diverse financial sector leads to better representation, more inclusive advice, and improved decision-making.

Demystifying financial literacy and encouraging open conversations can help individuals, especially women, gain confidence in managing money.

Small differences in financial advice can have significant long-term effects, making professional guidance essential.

With rising living costs, generational shifts, and evolving technology, financial management requires a modern, informed approach.

Follow Tracy:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-vegro-obe-24503922/

And here for CISI https://www.linkedin.com/school/chartered-institute-for-securities-&-investment/posts/?feedView=all

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with self-made millionaire and entrepreneur Rayner Mayers to explore her inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to building and selling her business, Falcon Cleaning Academy.

Rayner opens up about her early money experiences, the importance of setting financial goals, and how her relationship with money has evolved. She shares insights on personal budgeting, financial challenges during her divorce, and the emotional complexities that come with managing wealth.

Now embarking on a new business venture, Rayner reflects on the lessons learned from her past, the power of self-belief, and why investing in yourself is key to financial success.

🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, money mindset, and building a future on your own terms!

In this episode, Rayner and Gretchen discuss how:

Rayner's journey began with a promise to succeed, overcoming failure and shame.

Setting financial goals, like taking her children to Florida, kept her motivated.

Falcon Cleaning Academy was founded to elevate the cleaning industry.

Her respect for money grew after selling her business, shaping her financial mindset.

Balancing financial security with enjoying life is key to long-term happiness.

🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, money mindset, and building a future on your own terms!

Follow Rayner:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayner-mayers-5687a251/

On Instagram @falcon_cleaning_academy

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with award-winning communications expert Lisa Marie Mallier, founder of No Fluff Communications.

They explore the power of a no-nonsense approach to marketing, Lisa's journey into entrepreneurship, and the personal experiences that shaped her financial mindset.

From childhood money lessons to the challenges of teaching financial responsibility to the next generation, Lisa shares her insights on pensions, financial planning, and achieving a balance between family life and financial goals.

The conversation highlights the importance of open discussions about money and offers valuable advice for securing financial freedom.

In this episode, Lisa-Marie and Gretchen discuss how:

Early money experiences and family influence shape financial habits.

Teaching children about money is essential but challenging.

Budgeting and financial planning support long-term security.

Open conversations about money build confidence and awareness.

Financial freedom is about having time for what truly matters.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring and practical discussion on marketing, money, and making smart financial choices!

Follow Lisa-Marie:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamariemallier/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Pam Sutherland, founder of Truestar Talent, to discuss her journey in recruitment and her perspective on money management.

Pam shares how her early experiences shaped her financial mindset, the lessons she's learned along the way, and why ethical practices in the financial sector are more important than ever.

Together, they explore the power of open conversations about money - especially among women - and the delicate balance between enjoying the present and planning for the future.

In this episode, Pam and Gretchen discuss how:

Truestar Talent prioritises ethical recruitment with a focus on understanding people.

Pam's early experiences and her husband's influence shaped her money mindset.

Open conversations about money help women gain confidence and control.

Balancing work and personal life is key to long-term success.

Starting a pension early reduces financial stress and builds future security.

🎧 Tune in for an insightful and inspiring discussion!

Follow Pam:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-sutherland/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this empowering episode of the Women Talking Money podcast, host Gretchen Betts welcomes back Grace Quantock to dive deep into the themes of financial security and interdependence, as explored in Grace's new book, Living Well with Chronic Illness.

Grace shares her personal journey of navigating finances while living with chronic illness, shedding light on the importance of community support, mutual aid, and creating safety funds. She challenges the conventional notion of financial independence, arguing for the power of interdependence in financial relationships.

They explore the impact of financial constraints on career choices and redefine financial freedom—not just as accumulating wealth, but as the ability to make decisions based on personal care.

Grace offers invaluable insights on proactive financial planning and the significance of financial security for marginalized individuals and activists.

In this episode, Grace and Gretchen discuss:

💡 The power of community support and mutual aid

💡 Redefining financial freedom for holistic well-being

💡 Proactive planning for emergencies and long-term security

💡 The role of financial awareness in empowering women and activists

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the importance of financial security and building a flexible, supported future.

Follow Grace:

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracequantock/

On Instagram @grace_quantock

Grace's book 'Living Well with Chronic Illness: Write your own roadmap to healing in tough times' was released on 12th September - https://www.livingwellwithchronicillnessbook.co.uk/book

It's available as an audiobook, ebook and hardcover at your favourite retailers.

Other notable links from Grace are:

Leonie Dawson - https://leoniedawson.mykajabi.com/a/2147499079/bLsYwAbC

You Need A Budget (YNAB) - https://ynab.com/referral/?ref=iQoPWkEmsP3SqBuH

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with Ruth Hancock, CEO of Octopus Money, to explore her journey in financial planning and her passion for improving social mobility.

Ruth shares personal insights on money - from early influences to balancing spending and saving - and why she believes that having a financial plan that aligns with your goals is key to achieving true financial freedom.

🎧 Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on closing the advice gap and empowering more people to take control of their finances.

In this conversation, Ruth and Gretchen discuss how:

Entrepreneur-led businesses can drive real societal change.

Financial planning can be accessible and effective for the mass market.

Early saving habits and family influences shape lifelong financial attitudes.

A solid safety net enables greater career opportunities and calculated risks.

Money should support life goals, balancing short-term security with long-term aspirations.

Follow Ruth:

On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-handcock-71b3656/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

How much of your financial success is down to mindset?

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts chats with mindset coach Alex Rudnicka to explore how our beliefs about money shape our financial future.

From childhood money memories to common mindset blocks, Alex explains why self-image plays a crucial role in wealth-building and how women can redefine money as a neutral tool rather than a source of fear or stress.

They also discuss how to balance saving for the future while enjoying life today and why financial literacy is key for future generations.

🎧 Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that will change the way you think about money!

In this conversation, Alex and Gretchen discuss how:

Early experiences shape financial beliefs and behaviours.

Overcoming money blocks helps unlock financial potential.

Confidence and identity play a key role in success.

Teaching financial literacy sets up future generations for success

Follow Alex:

On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrudnicka/

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex_rudnicka/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money

In this episode of Women Talking Money, host Gretchen Betts sits down with Nicky Sevel, co-founder of Woven Advice, to explore her inspiring journey from Australia to the UK and her career in fintech.

Nicky shares her early money memories, the influence of family on financial habits, and the challenges she's faced as an entrepreneur.

Together, they discuss the importance of open conversations about money, financial literacy for women, and how data can empower better financial decisions.

🎧 Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that encourages women to seek support, build confidence, and take control of their finances.

In this conversation, Nicky and Gretchen discuss how:

Nicky' move to the UK shaped her career and passion for financial literacy.

Early experiences and family dynamics influence financial behaviour and attitudes towards risk.

Debt isn't inherently bad; it can be a tool for opportunity and financial stability.

Understanding finances through data helps build confidence and control.

Open conversations empower women to take charge of their financial future.

Follow Nicky:

On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicky-sevel/

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wovenadvice/

Follow Gretchen:

On Instagram @gretchenbetts_fp_biz

On LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-betts/

Listen to the full episode here: - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-talking-money/id1726916648

Watch the Episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@Women-Talking-Money