Empowering Women in Finance: Molly Benjamin's Journey with Ladies Finance Club
In this episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, host Aaron Christie-David is joined by the inspiring Molly Benjamin, founder of the Ladies Finance Club. Molly shares her journey, the challenges women face in financial literacy, and her mission to empower women through finance education. Watch the full episode here.
From Financial Mess to Financial Leader
The Beginnings of Ladies Finance Club
Molly’s background in financial services didn’t initially equate to financial success. She candidly recalls how she was earning good money but had nothing to show for it, describing herself as a “hot financial mess.” This revelation wasn’t just her personal experience but a common issue among women in the industry. Molly noticed that even her female colleagues at the bank were struggling with understanding investments, superannuation, and retirement planning.
Turning Frustration into Action
Feeling the frustration of being financially lost, Molly took action. She invited a few friends over to start a ‘money club,’ where they could learn about finances in an approachable way. This casual gathering with two pizzas, two bottles of Prosecco, and five friends sparked a movement. Today, over 50,000 women have attended Ladies Finance Club events, ranging from online masterclasses to corporate workshops.
Financial Literacy: The Gap in Women's Wealth Journey
Addressing the Gender Pay Gap
Molly highlights a critical issue in her discussion with Aaron: women are often excluded from financial literacy education. Whether it’s societal norms, family traditions, or the gender pay gap, many women feel left behind when it comes to managing their finances.
Breaking Barriers to Financial Education
The Ladies Finance Club provides a supportive environment for women to openly discuss money, break down barriers, and empower each other. Molly notes that financial literacy isn’t something taught in schools, workplaces, or even at home, but it’s essential for women to achieve financial independence.
Investing and Property: The Key Questions Women Ask
Why Women Are Eager to Learn About Investing
When asked about the most common financial concerns among her community, Molly identifies two key topics: investing in the stock market and property. Women want to know how to start investing, what platforms to use, and how to make their money grow.
Small Steps Toward Big Financial Milestones
Molly emphasises the importance of education in these areas. She encourages women to take small steps in investing, whether it’s with shares, ETFs, or saving for a property deposit. Starting small can build confidence and open doors to more significant financial milestones.
The Unique Financial Challenges Women Face
How Motherhood Affects Women's Earnings
One of the more eye-opening statistics Molly shares is that women’s earnings fall by 55% in the first five years of motherhood, while men’s earnings remain unaffected. This stark disparity contributes to a lifetime of financial inequality.
The Risk of Homelessness for Older Women
Aaron and Molly also touch on the sobering reality that women over 55 are one of the fastest-growing demographics of homelessness in Australia. Many women, after dedicating years to raising families or following traditional career paths, find themselves financially vulnerable in later life.
Mindset Matters: Breaking Financial Barriers
Reframing Negative Money Beliefs
One of the central themes Molly explores is mindset. She explains that a person’s financial beliefs, often ingrained by the age of seven, play a significant role in their relationship with money.
Overcoming the Fear of Wealth
To help women break these mental barriers, the Ladies Finance Club collaborates with money mindset coaches to reframe negative beliefs and foster a healthier approach to managing wealth.
The Role of Financial Literacy in Retirement
Why Women Need to Plan Early
Molly also stresses the importance of retirement planning, especially for women. She’s seen too many women come out of separations or reach their 50s with insufficient superannuation or investments to support their retirement.
Tools for Navigating the Later Stages of Life
At Ladies Finance Club, Molly has developed programs to help women navigate these life stages. Whether it’s planning for retirement or understanding how to make the most of an inheritance, the focus is on giving women the tools they need to take control of their financial future.
How to Get Involved
Free Resources and Workshops from Ladies Finance Club
For women who want to take charge of their finances but don’t know where to start, Molly encourages them to visit the Ladies Finance Club website and attend a free workshop or masterclass. There are also paid programs available for those looking to dive deeper into specific topics like investing, property, or retirement planning.
Ready to take control of your finances?
👉 Contact Molly Benjamin and explore the resources available at Ladies Finance Club.
Building a Supportive Financial Community
Ladies Finance Club is also active on Instagram, offering regular tips, advice, and support for women on their financial journey. As Molly says, “Investing should be part of adulting—just like brushing your teeth!”
Final Thoughts: Empowering Women, One Step at a Time
Take the First Step Toward Financial Independence
This episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast highlights the importance of financial literacy for women. Molly Benjamin’s journey from financial mess to financial mentor is an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to take control of your finances.
The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Support
Through the Ladies Finance Club, Molly is helping thousands of women build wealth, gain confidence, and achieve financial independence. Because when women support each other, amazing things happen.
Looking to make your next property investment?
👉 Reach out to Atelier Wealth for expert advice on navigating the Australian property market and building your portfolio.
