Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing

by Ellie Austin-Williams

A feminist take on financial wellbeing which alleviates financial anxiety in millennials by tackling the areas in life where money and wellbeing intersect.

How can we handle the impact of comparison culture on our bank accounts? Should we want an engagement ring, or is that anti-feminist? How can we say no to events we can’t afford but we feel obliged to attend to please others?

Money has the power to shape, make or even break our lives, and can have a significant impact on our mental health – so why aren’t we treating it as an important part of our wellbeing? In each chapter of this book, financial influencer Ellie Austin-Williams tackles a major area in our life that might bring us financial anxiety, from friendship to love.

Topics covered:
Rise of girl boss culture
How society has increasingly encouraged women to spend their way to happiness
The role of privilege, race and class in our pursuit of financial "success"
Why we feel we have to get ahead of others to be happy
The impact of social media on our spending habits
What we learned about work and money from our parents.

Insights from financial experts add to Ellie's own expertise, alongside relatable anecdotes from real people. Each chapter ends with some practical tips and tricks that you can use to empower yourself to improve your financial wellbeing.

Genres: Finance, Nonfiction, Money

192 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 2, 2024

Reviews

[Vanya Prodanova · Rating 3 out of 5]

Определено не е типичната финансова книга, където сериозно се задълбава в темата за пари и всички възможни опции пред теб финансово. Тук, авторката, минава през няколко ключови теми, които повечето жени ги засягат и говори за емоционалния и комуникативен елемент по отношение на тях. Няма спор, че да говориш за пари с партньор, семейство и приятели е трудно за навигиране, независимо кой си и от къде идваш. И ако си жена, за съжаление, финансово си по-прецакана от мъжете от момента, в който се родиш, искаш-не искаш.

Аз обичам финансови книги, дори и да е тип книги за самопомощ като тази, така че винаги е позитив да прочетеш нещо ново или дори познато. Ако човек се вълнува от темата за личните финанси и чете доста по темата, тази книга идва малко недостатъчна и повърхностно информативна. Можеше наистина още много да задълбае по отделните теми авторката. Главите се чувстваха като отделни статии за финансово списание, а не като за книга, където нещата трябва да бъдат сериозно разгледани и разгърнати в дълбочина. Подобна информация лесно се намира онлайн в по-престижните финансови медии. Това ми беше единственият проблем. Имах нужда от повече и по-задълбочено да е.

О, и единственото друго нещо, което не е само за тази книга, но за почти всяка книга, свързана с wellbeing - писна ми да слушам, че парите не ти купували щастие. Дотегна ми от тази изтъркана фраза, която е толкова невярна, че няма накъде повече. Ти дай парите на хората, пък нека не са толкова щастливи, колкото уж трябва да са, поне ще са нещастни в комфорт и това само по себе си е достатъчно. :)

[Roz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for access to this e(audio)ARC in exchange for a review.

This isn’t your average pay down debt and get an emergency fund personal finance book. Reaching into a broader foundation of topics from buying a house, friendships and celebrating milestones this feels more like your big sister talking you through your 20s and 30s.

I found the reference to Dolly Alderton’s ´Everything I Know About Love’ interesting, as although the author acknowledges her privilege I think these two books have similar audiences - university educated, middle class women. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but worth considering from the outset.

The book is read by the author, Austin-Williams is clear and helps the content to come across as a friendly chat. The chapters are clearly titled and the topics seem well contained within them. She really brings the content to life and the book is an enjoyable listen.

[Maude · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm absolutely convinced that money is one of the most important topics that we as women need to educate ourselves on throughout out lives, especially when discussing relationships and marriages with men. The premise of thi book sounded excellent on that basis - however, I believe the execution was a bit lacking in content, organization and purpose. The writing felt a bit all over the place, jumping from one idea to the next without much of a link, a good amount of the advice offered was quite redundant. If you're a very young woman who has absolutely no finial education, this pwuld ba a nice starter book, but if you've ever taken a home economics class or read a finances 101 pamphlet from your bank, I wouldn't recommend this.

[Kate Henderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started off well - but then I felt like it lost its way a little bit.
It says it's about financial wellbeing, and money - but it drifted away from this topic quite a bit.
When the book was actually referring to money and finance, I was super interested - but all of the other bits didn't capture me.
It's a lot more than just money - but unfortunately it's not actually what I wanted from a book that is titled 'Money Talks'....

[Markie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing" by Ellie Austin-Williams seems to offer a feminist perspective on achieving financial wellness and alleviating financial anxiety, particularly among millennials. The book appears to address the intersections between money and overall wellbeing, focusing on how financial decisions and cultural expectations can impact mental health and self-esteem. Here's a potential review of the book:

**Review:**

"Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing" offers a refreshing and thought-provoking perspective on the often-neglected connection between money and overall wellbeing. Ellie Austin-Williams, a prominent financial influencer, takes a feminist approach to explore the complex dynamics surrounding finances and how they intersect with various aspects of modern life.

One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the impact of comparison culture on our financial decisions. Austin-Williams adeptly delves into the ways in which social media and societal pressures can lead individuals to make choices that might not align with their values or financial capabilities. Her insightful commentary on the struggle to balance financial goals with the desire to keep up with others is particularly resonant in today's digital age.

The book doesn't shy away from confronting potentially contentious topics. Austin-Williams courageously addresses the question of whether wanting an engagement ring is anti-feminist, prompting readers to examine their personal beliefs and societal norms. This kind of nuanced discussion encourages readers to think critically about their choices and the implications they have on their financial wellbeing.

A standout aspect of "Money Talks" is its exploration of how privilege, race, and class intersect with financial success. Austin-Williams thoughtfully analyzes how systemic factors can influence financial opportunities and challenges, adding depth to the conversation on financial wellbeing.

Throughout the book, the author weaves together personal anecdotes, research, and cultural observations to highlight the complex relationship between money, happiness, and mental health. Her chapter-by-chapter approach, addressing various life areas like friendship, love, and work, allows readers to engage with the content in a practical and relatable manner.

As someone passionate about promoting financial empowerment, Austin-Williams draws attention to the rise of girl boss culture and questions whether it's truly empowering or if it inadvertently perpetuates the idea that success is defined by material possessions. Her candid discussions on how society encourages women to spend their way to happiness challenge readers to reconsider their consumer habits and financial goals.

"Money Talks" also provides actionable insights for navigating financial challenges, such as gracefully saying no to events that strain our budgets to please others. The author's advice is relatable and down-to-earth, making it easier for readers to apply the strategies to their own lives.

In conclusion, "Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing" is a compelling read that pushes beyond traditional financial advice by addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of money. Ellie Austin-Williams' feminist perspective offers a valuable lens through which readers can better understand and navigate their financial journeys, ultimately leading to improved overall wellbeing. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a holistic approach to financial health and personal empowerment.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Watkins Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I’m not actually familiar with the author of Money Talks – she’s a finance influencer – but the book sounded fascinating and I was happy to be approved for a NetGalley copy. 2023 has been my year of getting financially savvy and I’d love to continue this journey.

Money Talks is a really accessible book that talks about money – duh – and finance without any barriers. I loved that it openly discusses the intersection between money and personal wellbeing – so many of us experience financial anxiety at least a few times in our lives, and it just isn’t talked about. Austin-Williams even details how comparison culture, rife in our age, affects finances, bringing societal pressures unlike in other generations. I firmly believe that openly and regularly talking about finance helps to break down taboos around money, and it empowers us too.

Austin-Williams intersperses real-life examples and case studies, plus well-positioned questions throughout, making it a real handbook of sorts. I think it’s an essential read for women of all ages, even those in their first-ever jobs as teenagers. There are endless facts and nuggets of information that I know would’ve made a big impression on me 12 years ago when I stepped into the murky world of full-time work. I thought this book would be more of a practical guide to money (perhaps delving into savvy saving and making investments), but it is really more of a lifestyle and reassurance read, sharing anecdotes and facts and figures about the many chapters of money management that women may encounter. From money mindset to graduating university, money in relationships to becoming a parent, there is lots of great information here.

Perhaps a better read for those who are suffering with financial anxiety, but not a practical guide or handbook for those looking at getting on with finance.

[Nicole Miles]

I liked this. Worth noting it skews towards female (heteronormative) readers (if that didn’t already seem obvious by the visual signalling on the cover) in Britain, though the US is mentioned a lot too.

Heavy on money in relationships, schooling, housing (particularly ownership), weddings, and kids. Could probably have used a chapter on pensions and investing too.

I like that she goes deeper into societal influences on finances like inequality and privilege so on. That said, there isn’t really any depth on LGBTQ+ or racial minority communities…which I don’t have a huge problem with here. I’d rather her do that than speak on experiences she has no knowledge about (because it’s about more than just stats—as shown with the sprinkling of anecdotes from random people throughout the book to help illustrate the facts mentioned). And I appreciate that having whole sections outsourced to other writers with those unique experiences isn’t what the book is supposed to be I guess. There were one or two points where some of the ideas felt a little simplistic where she didn’t go into further detail and essentially had a quote from one or two people to speak for a whole group of experiences (thinking about the chapter that accidentally seems to generalise LGBTQ+ relationships vs heteronormative ones). But that’s being pretty nitpicky.
I could definitely see myself recommending this to several people.

[Bethany Fisher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been reading this on audio, narrated by the author, and while it may be useful and inspiring for some, it's not what I expected.

I plan to continue dipping in and out, but so far, there's nothing groundbreaking. I also think it's aimed more towards people with higher education, as a lot of the anecdotes and tips are centred around that.

There's also a lot of privilege involved, as not many people have the option to choose a 6-figure job, and quite a lot of working class people face those struggles with work-life balance anyway.

Overall, it's not a bad book by any means, but not what I'd hoped for.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ALC

[Tuğçe Gürkan · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you haven’t worked at all, have no financial knowledge and are not aware of the world around you, this might be the book for you.
Sorry, it just adds nothing to the current literature. I’d not even write about it but it is marketed as feminist finance and that makes me mad. I really do not want to be rude but I think we should think before we write a book if we are adding anything new to the existing knowledge and not just whether it can be marketed or not.

[Cameron Toney · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was not what I was expecting.
I believe that no one is taught enough about how to manage money, especially women. I think this is a huge problem in how people are educated, and I was looking forward to a look at managing finances for women. And while this is written by a woman, and deals with some things that will impact women more than men, it was more a series of conversations about the ways women might encounter financial challenges, and less a practical guide.

[Catherine Ritchie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful pocket guide to 21st century finances for women. I’m really glad this was the first book of 2025 for me, to kick off a few goals and expand my thinking about future aspirations and longer term goals. It will definitely be one to share with my friends.

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fresh up to date view on financial well-being in the modern world. Tackling conversations we ignore!

[Emery Feine · Rating 4 out of 5]

i think it did have some good information, but as a teenager i can’t relate to any of it. sorry, im not getting married anytime soon !

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book primarily based around female finances. Possibly aimed at 20-somethings so I’m not really the target audience

[J Tele · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Money Talks" by Ellie Austin-Williams, the profound impact of money on our lives and mental well-being takes center stage. The book dissects various sources of financial anxiety, from societal pressures associated with "girl boss culture" to the influence of social media on spending habits. It doesn't shy away from the role of privilege, race, and class in our quest for financial success. Ellie combines her own insights as a financial influencer with expert opinions, offering real-life anecdotes and practical tips at the end of each chapter. "Money Talks" is a comprehensive guide that encourages readers to empower themselves and improve their financial well-being, recognizing money's profound role in shaping our lives.

[Rosemary Rey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Money Talks by Ellie Austin-Williams is a financial guide for women. Discussions of how women were historically marginalized financially are important to understand how women have been kept out of money-making and spending decisions. There are a lot of tips on how to budget, make best choices when events and emergencies come up, and encouragement to learn more because this is an ever evolving system. This is very much a beginner book that I'd recommend to anyone wanting to learn more about saving their money.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like that this book talked about money not just in terms of actual cash, but also in how it is influenced by our careers, privileges and goals, and other factors. This was a good book that focused on psychological and emotional aspects of money and it’s influence on our lives. I really enjoyed the call outs and the reflection questions. This was a good book for navigating money as a woman that focused more on the sociological, psychological, and emotional aspects of spending money in a capitalist world. 4/5

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t really like this book. It wasn’t really meant for me, so that’s why I’m giving three stars instead of 2 because this book is more for someone recently out of college/twenties who haven’t really been taught about money. If you have read other financial books, I think this one is skippable.

I received an ARC via NetGalley and this is my honest review.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the advanced reader's copy.

Looking for a easy to read financial book. This is it.
Non-fiction reads can be long and complicated. This one does not follow this trend. Give it a try.

[Carol Standish-Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book on finance for eomen, albeit younger women. As a 60+ year old woman there is little in the book that is pertinent to me. That said, it has value to the younger female reader.

[Jessica Lucas · Rating 1 out of 5]

Lacking relevance, unless you hate your job or have never heard of money. Very weak content.

[Jane Potter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chatty and relaxed tone. A perspective on money and it's effects on our life.