Our relationship with money doesn’t start when we open our first bank account. It’s shaped from childhood, through our families, culture, community, and the messages we absorbed without even realising. These “money stories” influence how we value ourselves, the fees we set, the risks we take, and the limits we place on our practice.

In this episode, Ashton and I explore the money myths and blocks that show up for social workers in private practice. We share our own experiences, unpack where these beliefs come from, and talk about how shifting them can open up new possibilities in our work and lives.

What we cover:

• What “money stories” are and why they matter
• How family and culture shape our beliefs about money
• Common money myths (hard work equals worth, ambition equals greed)
• How money blocks play out in practice, undercharging, burnout, and fear of growth
• Practical tools and resources to reflect on and reframe your money story

Resources

Listen to the previous episodes in this series:

• Why we became social workers (and why we stayed)
• How our social work practice has grown
• The careers we built that our younger selves wouldn’t believe
• The moments self-doubt almost stopped us
• The hardest parts of social work and what we love about it
• Why do social workers feel guilty charging our worth?
• Saving money starting out and the mistakes we made
• We don’t have to work for free

Also explore:

• Books – She’s On the Money, Barefoot Investor, Profit First, You’re a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero
• Journaling prompts – Ashton’s 30-day reflections on money blocks
• How to Improve Your Relationship With Money

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