Simon and Bex discuss the many types of conversations that we can have about money and how we can get the most out of each of these.

Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

• Simon introduces the episode by explaining that the focus is going to be on the range of people with whom we can have money conversations and the different contexts in which those discussions occur. He describes the situation as having many layers of financial interaction while Bex uses the analogy of each of us having various spheres of financial relationships around us, with which we engage to a greater or lesser extent. [00:34]
• The primary, and earliest, sphere of financial interaction for Bex had been with her parents. She and Simon discuss the potential for parent / child dynamics in this context to be very complex because of personal development factors and also as a result of the different phases of life and significant changes that occur in families over time. [04:02]
• Inevitably, conversations about money that occur with peers are quite different from those that occur with parents or anyone else with whom there are money-related ‘authority dynamics’ in play. Such conversations can, however, still include elements of accountability and taking advice. [08:54]
• Bex and Simon discuss the responsibilities and decision-making that come with being a budget holder, whether that be in a church or a business context. [10:47]
• When asked about other contexts in which she has money conversations, Bex comments that these can occur almost anywhere and, quite often, unexpectedly. Simon suggests that this shows that many people are looking for thoughtful and informed input on money matters and are quite likely to be interested in hearing our views if it is clear that we have considered issues seriously and are not afraid to admit that we don’t have all of the answers. [14:17]
• Simon goes on to talk about situations in which our voice can have a wider impact when, for instance, we provide input which enables money to be used for the good of the community. It is also noted that sharing our views on the principles that we apply when spending money - on clothes for example - can influence others and can contribute to a broader conversation taking place across society. [18:57]
• Bex extends the scope of ‘wider impact’ by asking Simon how we can engage meaningfully with opposing points of view while remaining true to our personal beliefs when having conversations about politics. [22:01]
• Bex wraps up the conversation by highlighting three points to reflect on: know what you think and why; your opinion matters; we have a challenge and an opportunity to share the light and hope that is at the heart of our Christian faith. [24:40]

Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast.

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