Sort Your Money Out: and Get Invested

by Glen James

It's time to learn how to manage your money and understand investing In Sort Your Money and Get Invested , former financial adviser and host of the my millennial money podcast Glen James shares a life-changing approach to the major milestones of your personal finances, such as dealing with debt, embracing a realistic spending plan that works, buying your first home, investing in shares and creating the plan you need for long-term financial success. You’ll get the accessible and friendly help you need to get smart with your money, and equip you with the skills and tools to understand and secure your financial future, invest in a property, in shares and in yourself. Written in a matter-of-fact style perfect for anyone who just wants to know what works for them, you’ll also learn Ideal for anyone trying to get a handle on their personal finances and get started building a portfolio, Sort Your Money Out is a one-of-a-kind must-read book filled with practical and entertaining financial help to make sense of an intimidating, but crucial, part of everyone’s lives.

Genres: Finance, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Money, Personal Finance

400 pages, Paperback

Published October 11, 2021

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is Nonfiction/Financial. This one was just okay for me. I didn't feel like I was in the target audience, but maybe some might find it useful if they carry debt and have no idea how to fix that.

In the first part he takes absolutely no prisoners when he talks about getting out of debt. He even mentions something about offending people with his message. I did't find his message off-putting, but his demeanor wasn't for me. It felt like he lumped all of his readers into one corral labeled "FINANCE FOR DUMMIES".

So 2 stars. Even though, I didn't find this one particurlarly useful, some might especially if they like the 2x4 approach.

[Taka Tajiri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good details in terms of all the aspects of property market, how to put our toes in, pros/cons of the reality of market. He gave me some gigs too so it’s quite easy to consume as well. Great read.

[Emily Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yay, first 5 ⭐️ book of the year! I zoomed through this book in a weekend and tried to soak up as much of it as I could. I can tell that I will end up coming back to this book many times in the next few years as I move through stages of my life.

Written in a super straightforward, down to earth way, kind of like if your dad was giving you advice. I also love the My Millenial Money podcast and was happy to see that the book stayed really true to the tone of voice Glen uses in the podcast.

I think you know a book is going to be a five star read when you hit a particular page, line or phrase (for me it was the Sound Financial House diagram) that literally makes you stare at a wall for a few minutes, contemplating existence.

I really hardly have a criticism about this book. Maybe it’s a little too annoyingly millenial in some parts, and Glen isn’t shy about dishing out his personal opinions about particular issues, but that’s something I thought added to the book. I don’t think everyone would resonate with his style of writing/advice though.

Anyway if you’re looking for the one-stop shop for PRACTICAL grassroots financial advice that’s not judgemental or airy-fairy, this is the one to read.

[Rosie Carbery · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit of necessary tough love for those with consumer debt! This contained information regarding investment bonds for children and detailed insurance info including trauma, which I don’t always see a ton of in general finance books. Overall a good read, I’m a big fan of the Glen James Universe

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably not the target audience, but it had some useful explanations and terms in it

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a long time listener of my millennial money and have been to a couple of the live shows, so may be bias, but I really enjoyed the flow of this book.

Glen’s aim is for you to take away at least one thing and I did think a lot about super and how I can support my partner whilst he studies and does all the running around for our daughter.

This book is basic enough that anyone can pick it up and in-depth enough that you can get excited about doing something with your money as well.

Highly recommend. It’s a great contrast to other Australian money books out there and is almost like levelling up if you have a basic spending plan and want to try and be a little bit smarter with your money. Also, I think it’s great the emphasis he puts on getting your finances/insurance in order. He also has great insight when it comes to money mindset and what you want to be spending your money on.

Highly recommend.

[Loz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been eagerly waiting for this book and I have zero regrets with my purchase. This book was everything Glen hyped it up to be :) While I would consider myself a beginner to the topic of investing, Glen pitched this book at intermediate but it was easy to understand and follow the concepts due to his straightforward language.

Being a listener of the podcast and having taken his spending plan course, I still got LOADS out of this book. It's like a more detailed, levelled up version of his existing resources. So definitely still worth getting if you already subscribe to the podcast, etc. At the end of every chapter he has more resources that can be accessed which is more than any other book I've picked up!

I've read a few finance books from Australian finance podcasters this year and I feel that Glen's book is different to the others and is worth adding to your TBR pile. He dives into the weeds in a few areas and really highlights some not so common information that is valuable knowledge to have, whether you need it now or later in life (or to share with others).

The entire book read well as if he was on the podcast just talking about money. Though I am looking forward to when the audiobook drops as I do prefer non-fiction in an audio format.

I read the book in order, though it is formatted so you can pick and choose chapters of interest, and I personally would recommend reading it this way. Glen sets up a great foundation of knowledge (not just the sound financial house) before he dives into more advanced topics. Even if you're not ready for investing or other advanced topics there was still great tips to know ahead of being ready in those chapters so my suggestion would be to read it all.

I did like the TL;DR pages for a laugh. I'm a reader and a detail oriented person so I'm always going to choose more information over an executive summary but it's great to have options for every reader type :)

Now go get yourself a copy. Buy one for a friend. You won't regret it.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sort Your Money Out: and Get Invested by Glen James is a straightforward, no-fluff guide that will help you take control of your finances and start investing. If you’re someone who feels overwhelmed by money talk or unsure where to start, this book is a fantastic resource that cuts through the confusion.

Glen James does a great job of making financial concepts easy to understand. He breaks down everything from budgeting to investing in a way that feels doable for anyone—whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your financial strategies. What I appreciated was his practical, step-by-step approach that encourages readers to take small, manageable actions.

The book is packed with actionable advice, but it’s also relatable. Glen touches on the psychological aspects of money—how our habits and mindset shape our financial lives. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about creating a healthier relationship with money.

The investing section, which could be daunting for beginners, is especially useful. Glen explains the basics without overwhelming you with jargon, making it feel like something anyone can understand and start doing. His advice on building a solid financial foundation before diving into investments is sound and accessible.

Overall, Sort Your Money Out: and Get Invested is a must-read if you’re looking to get your finances in order and start building wealth. Glen James offers a clear, actionable plan that’s easy to follow, making it a perfect starting point for anyone wanting to improve their financial situation.

[James Gorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to anyone that struggles with money or how to be smart with money and how to optimise the use of it. This is a book that came out in 2021 and I wish I read it then because it can lead you to make money changes and smarter thinking with money choices. I would recommend any of Glen James’ books to anyone that is interesting in turning their money life around and wants a better understanding of money and its uses. Glen also has other books and a whole platform of money money money which I would recommend to anyone. I’ll keep this book to look back on topics I need a better understanding with or just a different way to approach it. Great book just wish I read it when I was younger

[Emma]

I listen to and enjoy Glen's podcast so I thought I'd give his book a go. A lot of the info is stuff I've already heard from listening to the pod, but for anyone new to these concepts it's a good read and he narrates in a very accessible way. I wish I'd had this podcast when I was 18 to help set me up better for adulthood. I'm not in any consumer debt but I would imagine those chapters to be very helpful for people who are. It's been good consuming this content with some upcoming changes happening just to get me thinking about our family's updated goals.

[Chantelle Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful general reference through the Australian financial journey for saving and investing. The topics cover reducing debt, saving, budgeting, investing, purchasing property, insurance and estate planning in easy to read separate sections. Diagrams and clear examples help to breakdown complex areas like investing and superannuation. A useful guide for someone at the early stages of the financial journey or partway through.

[Peta · Rating 2 out of 5]

very similar vibes to she's on the money, it is interesting to compare because there are sections of advice that differ every so slightly. I fell like this book has more detail and is more specific. However, it has big Barefoot investor + ING vibes in relation to the never ending references to vanguard.. I hope they are at least getting some commission from it

[Acacia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! I found it so much more relatable than the Barfoot Investor. The physical book is laid out in a way that is easy to read and follow. The last chapter or two relate specifically to the Australian super/things that apply to Australians. I wish that it had included a part about KiwiSaver.

[Jack McPhee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book to help set you up for success in all things finance. Really helped me have a plan when it comes to spending. After Barefoot Investor, this was the best next step to help people on their journey to being Wealthy. There was a lot that I already knew but was super helpful in the areas I’m not (eg insurance, property etc.)

[Zaher Alhaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Undoubtedly, the most comprehensive and wittily written Personal Finance book for Aussies. It is the true personal finance bible that covers: money management, investment, real estate, and insurance in a single insightful book. Really love it and must be read by all Aussies who are seeking Financial Independence!

[Serena Mevissen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, geared towards those with consumer debt, serves as a broad strokes resource for financial understanding. It offers a broad foundation for learning and application, with examples and tables which does give it a slight “textbook” feel. Maybe that's just the trade-off for a self-proclaimed "money for dummies" guide!

[Winsome Norrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Glen is a smart guy who tells it like it is, explaining concepts in personal finance and investing in a relatable and sometimes downright amusing manner. Who knew finance could make you laugh? Love the book and will definitely reread in the future to stay on track.

[Jamilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has it all- it’s both insightful and motivating.

Glen does a great job educating the readers on personal finance. We’ve learnt some great tips that we’ve already put in place.

Highly recommend!

[Jillian Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really informative, easy to read book that covers the basics of everything that you need to know about money and getting your finances sorted. It’s a book that everyone should read to get themselves started and make it the foundation of financial education.

[Lachlan Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really well written book with lots of sensible advice about managing money. I enjoyed reading it and plan to implement some changes to how I organise my life and my money based on what Glen had to say. A worthwhile read.

[Tricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read a lot of financial books and this is one of the better ones. I really appreciated the no-nonsense approach to investing and I picked up a few tips.

I am not the target audience for this (I am a bit older) so some of the language was not for me, however I would definitely recommend it to my friends that are Millenials.

[Tiarne Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is easy to read and covers a lot of important topics, e.g. budgeting, investing, property ownership.

It gives you information and examples, but doesn't tell you what to do as Glen acknowledges everyone is in a different situation.

[Rachel Favilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thorough “personal finance 101 l” book that would be an amazing resource for anyone who is new to financial literacy, or someone more experienced who desires an enjoyable and page-turning refresher.

[Michael McEvoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a comprehensive overview of many aspects of managing money. Learnt a few lessons that I will try to put into practice. James comes at it with a millennial voice which can be a bit gimmicky (featuring a few xoxos, lols and hehehes) but it kept it light and I enjoyed the read.

[Tara Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated his down to earth writing style, and his clear voice. I found myself skimming some of the later chapters on investing as it went into a bit too much detail for me. I think it’s got helpful investing advice and is definitely helpful to have financial advice for this current context.

[Kiera Geddes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I probably wasn’t the target audience for this book. I definitely learnt a lot from it but also a lot went over my head. I would probably read again in physical form (I listened as an audiobook) I think the listening to non fiction had me zoning out.

[Jess Crook · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this was your first finance book, it would be super interesting and helpful. But I’ve read about 5 others like it, so it took me ages. It’s basically Barefoot Investor but with better detail on cars and insurances. I’m giving it 5 stars mostly because I just love Glen James.

[ebony · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do think I should have read this before the investing book, but alas! Filled with some great advice, however much of which I already knew through prior education/ listening to Glen’s podcast which truly is an invaluable resource.

[Mitch Flitcroft · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful guide to Australian personal finance. Similar to The Barefoot Investor, but a bit broader.

[kf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the straight forward tone of this book.