In this episode, we interview Pauline Kirk, a financial empowerment coach. The episode primarily focuses on financial independence for women. Pauline emphasizes the importance of understanding one's finances, shedding light on the effects of societal narratives on women's financial behaviors. She explores how women can enact financial success habits, starting with understanding one's income and expenditure, and then making a commitment to savings. Pauline, also referred to as the 'disruptor', is dedicated to breaking down financial jargon into simple, understandable language for everyday people. She is also preparing to join the Women Thrive Summit as a speaker, where she will be sharing her financial expertise and passion. ✨ Exceptional Highlights Understanding Financial Fabulousness: To be financially fabulous means to have the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions that align with your goals and values. It's about taking control of your money and creating a secure future for yourself. Pauline emphasizes the importance of understanding your money, examining your money stories, and challenging the societal narratives that dictate our financial beliefs. The Impact of Childhood Money Stories: Pauline highlights the significance of our childhood experiences and the stories we were told about money. Many of us grew up with the notion that a man would provide for us, and financial independence wasn't encouraged. It's crucial to recognize and change these narratives to empower ourselves to take charge of our financial well-being. Breaking the Chains of Dependence: One of the key takeaways from Pauline's discussion is the realization that no one is coming to save us. We need to take responsibility for our financial futures. The statistics reveal that 48% of couples end up in divorce, and women, on average, live six years longer than men. Therefore, women need to ensure their financial security and not rely solely on others. Education and Empowerment: Pauline's journey stems from personal experiences, including PTSD and an emotional spending addiction. She reveals that her lack of knowledge and the negative experience with a financial advisor prompted her to take matters into her own hands. Pauline advocates for self-education and understanding one's investments to avoid falling victim to the complexities of the financial industry. Show Highlights 01:38 Understanding Money: Control and Empowerment 02:42 Financial Education: Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust 03:09 Creating New Money Stories: From Victim to Victor 05:22 Breaking Societal Norms: The Disney Effect and Women's Financial Independence 08:52 Pauline's Personal Journey: From Debt to Financial Empowerment 16:12 Disrupting the Patriarchal Structures in Finance 16:41 The Importance of Financial Literacy and Transparency 22:17 Taking Control: Practical Steps Towards Financial Freedom 27:42 Conclusion: The Power of Community and Financial Success Habits ✨ About Pauline Kirk ✨ Pauline Kirk is a phenomenal woman on a mission to empower women to achieve financial independence, freedom and to live fabulous lives. With a background that spans military service, corporate leadership & entrepreneurship, Pauline has gained a wealth of experience. Driven by her own personal journey from the brink of bankruptcy to financial success, Pauline founded a social enterprise dedicated to supporting women in managing their finances. Through her programs, she educates both individuals & organisations alike on financial wellness, personal finance, debt management, the psychology of money, how to get started with investing & financial empowerment for women.  Pauline's expertise derived from being an emotional spender from her time in the military (as a result of PTSD in Iraq in 02/03), lacking self-worth & a financial advisor who also took advantage, she has spent over 15 years educating herself on all aspects of finance and is on a mission to supp