If You Can Talk About Money, You Can Talk About Anything. So Let’s Start Talking
Building financial security for your family and growing your own business takes more than just hard work and passion. It requires a solid foundation of financial knowledge and the confidence to make informed decisions. Yet, one topic that often goes unspoken—especially for mums juggling work, family life, and entrepreneurship—is money. How many of us truly feel comfortable discussing finances in a way that isn’t overwhelming or taboo?
In her TEDx Talk, You're in Love. But Are You Financially Compatible?, Premarital Financial Counselor Leah Marie Collins sheds light on this often-ignored issue. She explores why financial compatibility is just as important as romantic compatibility and how financial awareness can empower mums in relationships, business, and beyond.
At Mums Who Build, we know many of you are working towards financial security while balancing family life. In this blog we hope to help you start essential money conversations, build confidence, and avoid common financial pitfalls.
1. Financial Red Flags Don’t Disappear—They Grow
Whether you’re growing your business or your family, money plays a major role. many couples avoid financial discussions because they feel uncomfortable or risky. But ignoring potential red flags now can have serious long-term consequences.
Some common financial red flags include:
One partner avoiding money conversations or becoming defensive when finances are discussed.
Lack of transparency around financial obligations, debts, or savings goals.
Disagreements on spending vs. saving without compromise or a shared plan.
For mums striving for financial security, open and honest conversations with a partner are crucial. Leah’s TEDx Talk encourages couples to align their financial approaches, even if their habits differ. If money conversations feel difficult, it may be time to take the lead in setting financial goals for your household.
2. Protect Yourself and Your Children—Plan Ahead
Many mums feel financially secure within their relationships, but financial independence is key to long-term stability—especially for those who run their own businesses or have stepped back from work to raise children.
Leah’s talk highlights the importance of financial planning and legal protections to ensure you and your children are safeguarded, no matter what life brings.
She touches on:
Prenuptial & postnuptial agreements – Not just for the wealthy, these agreements can help protect assets and clarify financial responsibilities.
Estate planning – Ensuring that your finances are managed according to your wishes.
Childcare costs & financial obligations – Key factors that should be part of any financial planning discussion, especially for business-owning mums.
If these topics feel overwhelming, speaking to a qualified financial planner or legal expert can help you understand your options and create a plan tailored to your situation.
3. Recognising Financial Abuse
financial abuse—a form of control that can leave one partner financially dependent and vulnerable. Financial abuse can happen in any relationship, and recognising the warning signs is crucial.
Some indicators of financial abuse include:
One partner controlling all household finances and limiting access to joint accounts.
Withholding money, making it difficult to pay for essentials like food or healthcare.
Coercing a partner into financial decisions without their consent.
Leah’s insights align with growing awareness around economic abuse, a serious issue that can have lasting consequences. According to Grazia UK, over 4.1 million UK women have experienced economic abuse, with younger women disproportionately affected. A recent report highlights that 71% of Brits are not confident in their ability to identify the warning signs of financial abuse in relationships.
If you identify any of these signs in your relationship, it’s important to seek professional support to regain financial independence and security. To learn more, read Grazia UK's latest post on economic abuse https://www.instagram.com/p/DGnQvuYucD1/?img_index=1.
4. Avoiding the Conversation Won’t Make Problems Go Away
Money is one of the biggest causes of relationship stress, but Leah’s advice is simple: start the conversation early. Financial issues don’t disappear when ignored—they tend to grow.
Her challenge to all couples? Have one courageous money conversation this week.
Some key topics to start with:
What are our financial goals for our family and Business?
Are we being transparent about income, debts, and financial commitments?
How do we feel about spending vs. saving?
If discussing finances feels daunting, consider seeking guidance from a financial coach, advisor, or relationship expert who can help navigate these conversations.
Start Your Courageous Conversation Today
Whether you’re a mum building a business, a stay-at-home parent, or balancing both family and work life, taking charge of your financial future starts with clear, honest discussions. As Leah Marie Collins puts it: if you can talk about money, you can talk about anything.
💡 Watch Leah Marie Collins’ TEDx Talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPzcPn6EcRQ
This isn’t just about financial compatibility in relationships—it’s about creating a financially secure future for yourself and your children. No matter where you are on your journey, starting these conversations today is a step toward the future you deserve.
Join the Mums Who Build Community
Looking for a supportive space where you can discuss financial security, business growth, and life as a mum? Join Mums Who Build—a community for ambitious mums who are building businesses, careers, and financial confidence. Connect with like-minded women, share your journey, and get inspired.
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💬 What’s one financial conversation you’ve been avoiding? Drop a comment below or share your thoughts with us in the Mums Who Build community!
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