Why More Women Are Taking Control of Their Finances – And What’s Still Holding Some Back
For too long, the finance and property investing conversation has been dominated by masculine energy – risk-taking, aggression, and competition. But there’s a shift happening. Women are stepping up, not only as earners but as investors and wealth creators. And it’s about time.
On Episode 208 of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, Aaron Christie-David sat down with Amanda Thompson – Ironwoman, heart attack survivor, and author of Financially Fit Women – to unpack the realities of what it’s like for women to take control of their money in a system that hasn’t always included them.
This isn’t just a token conversation about gender. It’s a deep dive into the fears, habits, emotions, and social conditioning that shape how women approach finances – and what needs to change. Watch the full episode here.
The Masculine Bias in Finance: Action, Risk, and Competition
Aaron kicks off the conversation by calling out the elephant in the room: the finance and property space has traditionally been geared toward men.
Amanda agrees. “We’re all driven by fear,” she says, “but how we respond to fear differs. Women often seek safety and stability. Men tend to push forward and take risks.”
In financial terms, that can look like women delaying investing because it “feels risky,” or hesitating to use equity because it’s tied to their sense of security. Meanwhile, men may be more likely to “give it a crack” without fully assessing the emotional consequences.
And that’s not a stereotype – it’s backed by Amanda’s years of experience advising both men and women.
Fear is the Real Blocker – Not Gender
Let’s be clear: it’s not a woman’s lack of intelligence or interest that’s holding her back from building wealth.
It’s fear.
Amanda often hears female clients say, “I’m just not good with numbers,” or “My ex used to handle all the finances.” There’s shame, embarrassment, and a deep fear of looking silly in front of a professional.
But as Amanda bluntly puts it: “You don’t need to be good at spreadsheets to have financial acumen. That’s our job – to explain money in a way that makes sense to you.”
Atelier Wealth’s team has long embraced this philosophy through visual strategy videos, easy-to-understand breakdowns, and ongoing education for clients. Because let’s face it: an email full of finance jargon doesn’t work for anyone – not even men.
The Gender Wealth Gap is Generational – But We’re Catching Up
Many women today are earning more than their fathers ever did. Yet they’re still expected to retire with less.
Amanda explains why: “I’m 49 and statistically, I’ll live six years longer than a man my age – but with less superannuation. We take more career breaks. We care for children, parents, and others. And we’re still catching up from the generations where women weren’t allowed to work after marriage.”
It’s no wonder many women lean towards conservative money habits. They’ve been taught – consciously or not – that it’s safer to save than to invest.
But safety can also mean stagnation.
From Budgeting to Spending Plans: Rewriting the Rules
Here’s a surprising truth: Amanda hates the word “budget.”
“It feels restrictive, like someone’s pointing a finger telling me what I can and can’t do,” she laughs.
Instead, she reframes it as a “spending plan.” One that empowers clients to choose where their money goes and builds a surplus through intentionality – not restriction.
This shift in mindset creates a more positive association with money. Like training for a marathon, Amanda believes financial habits should start small, feel achievable, and build momentum.
Start with $50 a week in savings. Get a win. Increase to $70. The endorphins from success? Just as powerful in money as they are in sport.
Investing Is Emotional – Let’s Stop Pretending It’s Not
Both Amanda and Aaron agree that there’s no such thing as a purely rational investor.
“We’re talking about money, risk, and our future – how could it not be emotional?” Aaron says.
For women especially, financial decisions are often intertwined with legacy, family, and lifestyle – not just spreadsheets.
Amanda explains how she uses the “Five Whys” method to help clients go deeper:
Why do you want to buy a home?
Because I want security.
Why is security important?
Because I want to raise my family in one place.
Why?
Because I grew up in a stable home and want the same for my kids.
By the fifth “why,” the true driver is revealed: love, safety, belonging. Those are powerful reasons to build wealth.
Aligning Money Goals in Relationships: Two Blueprints Won’t Build One Home
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is the idea that couples cannot build a financial future on two different blueprints.
Aaron shares candidly about the moment he and Bernadette aligned on their financial goals – and how it changed everything.
Amanda encourages all couples to write down their financial goals separately before bringing them together.
“You won’t be completely honest if you’re doing them jointly,” she says. “But once you understand what drives your partner – and find common goals – you can create a unified plan.”
Breaking the Equity Fear: It’s Time to Reframe the Risk
A recurring myth Amanda and Aaron both encounter is the fear that “using the equity in my home is dangerous.”
Let’s be blunt – it’s not.
Amanda encourages clients to ask themselves why they believe that. Is it a genuine financial concern, or inherited fear from a parent or past partner?
Aaron adds: “Not investing is risky. Sitting on equity in your home while inflation eats away your savings is a risk. There are safe ways to access and leverage equity.”
But it requires education, support, and guidance – something both Amanda and the Atelier team provide through transparent, values-led conversations.
The Role of Financial Professionals: Connection Over Spreadsheets
Amanda is adamant that good financial advice is about more than just numbers.
“If you don’t feel a personal connection with your adviser – male or female – you’re with the wrong one,” she says.
She encourages clients to ask questions. Be curious. And push back when they don’t understand something.
“I’m not your best friend,” Amanda says. “I’m here to hold you accountable for your financial future.”
That blend of empathy and tough love is exactly what clients need – and what the best professionals offer.
Understanding Your Money Story: The Missing Piece in Wealth Building
Every person carries a money story – often inherited, unexamined, and full of emotional baggage.
Maybe you grew up watching your parents fight about money. Maybe you were told it’s “rude” to talk about wealth. Maybe you were praised for saving but never taught how to invest.
Amanda’s advice? “Understand your money story. Ask yourself: where did this belief come from? Does it still serve me?”
Only then can you rewrite the script.
Financial Empowerment is Self-Care
From estate planning to risk-taking, Amanda reminds listeners that financial empowerment is a form of self-care.
“When I was in ICU after a heart attack, I had to call my lawyer to update my will. That moment made it real,” she says.
Clarity is kindness – for you and your loved ones.
So whether it’s setting up power of attorney, insurances, or finally learning how your super works, these are not just tasks. They’re acts of love for your future self and your family.
Your Journey, Your Pace
Aaron closes the episode with a powerful reminder:
“Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. A 27-year-old investor is playing a very different game to a 45-year-old parent. Stay in your lane.”
At Atelier Wealth, we’re here to meet you where you are – with empathy, strategy, and a roadmap that feels right for you.
Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or ready to level up, know this: there’s no shame in asking questions. Only strength in starting.
Looking to build a values-aligned property investment plan?
Get in touch with the team at Atelier Wealth. Whether you’re flying solo or planning as a couple, we’ll help you build a blueprint that’s right for you.
