Just like Maslow's hierarchy of needs, your finances have levels too!
In this video, I break down my Hierarchy of Financial Needs, a 7-level framework that shows exactly where to focus your money and in what order. Whether you're just starting out or already investing, this will help you figure out where you are — and what your next move should be.
The 7 Levels:
Psychology of Money — your relationship with money comes first Emergency Fund — your financial safety net Insurance — protecting what you've built Paying Off Debt — clearing the way to build wealth Savings & Investments — putting your money to work Retirement Planning — your future self will thank you Estate Planning — protecting your legacy
You'll learn: Why you can't skip levels and what happens when you do How to know which level you're currently on What to do at each stage The mistakes most people make by jumping ahead
Start at the bottom. Build to the top.
Take the Money Story Questionnaire here: https://www.womanandfinance.co.za/resources
Is It Too Late To Open a Tax-Free Savings Account at 55?
2026/06/04 | 8 mins.
If you're in your 50s or you have a parent who is and you're wondering whether it's too late to open a Tax-Free Savings Account, this episode is for you. A 55-year-old listener sent in a question asking whether a TFSA is still worth opening at their age. I ran the numbers, and honestly? The results might surprise you. Whether you can put away the full R46,000 a year or just R10,000, ten years of consistent, tax-free growth still adds up to something seriously worth having. It is not too late — and by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly why.
Should I Pay Extra Towards My Debt or Start an Emergency Fund?
2026/04/16 | 11 mins.
Are you torn between paying extra on your debt or starting an emergency fund? You're not alone! This is one of the most common financial dilemmas, and in today's video, I'm breaking down exactly what you should prioritise based on your situation.
What You'll Learn: ✅ When to prioritise debt payments ✅ Why an emergency fund might be more important than you think ✅ The "hybrid approach" that could work for both goals ✅ Common mistakes people make with this decision
Key Topics Covered: 00:00 - Intro 00:27 - Should I pay off my debt or build an emergency fund 00:46 - Scenario (Debts & Interest Rates) 06:27 - High-interest debt vs low-interest debt strategies 08:15 - Where should you put your Emergency fund 09:50 - Free Credit template 10:55 - Free TFSA Ebook
🙌🏾 Let me know in the comments - are you team emergency fund or team debt payoff?
Don't forget to LIKE this video if it helped you and SUBSCRIBE for more practical money advice!
Watch our second episode of Money: It's Not Black or White here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHl9ZFvExnI&t=30s
This War Is About to Hit Your Wallet - Here's What To Do!
2026/04/05 | 24 mins.
🌍 Global News, Rising Costs & Your Money | What South Africans Should Be Doing Right Now
In this episode, I break down what’s happening in global current affairs — from ongoing wars to rising fuel prices — and what it actually means for you as a South African.
Because let’s be honest: when global events shift, your wallet feels it. From petrol price increases to the rising cost of living, I explain how these global changes impact your day-to-day finances — and more importantly, what you should be doing about it.
💡 In this video, we cover:
1. How global conflicts affect fuel prices in South Africa 2. The ripple effect on inflation and your cost of living 3. Why having an emergency fund is no longer optional 4. Manage and reduce debt 5. How to start investing (even with small amounts) 6. How to stay financially grounded during uncertain times
This is your reminder: you may not control what’s happening globally, but you can control how you respond financially.
9 Ways I Live Below My Means (Even With a Decent Income)
2026/03/19 | 22 mins.
Building wealth isn’t just about how much you earn, it’s about how you choose to live.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the 9 ways I intentionally keep my lifestyle in check:
1. I don’t buy designer clothes or bags 2. My kids don’t wear designer brands either 3. My car is paid off (and I’m not rushing to upgrade) 4. We rent for now — and won’t buy at the top of our affordability when we do buy the house 5. I keep my gym contract basic 6. I keep my lifestyle simple even when income increases 7. I know how to say NO! 8. I keep my debit orders low 9. I use my business strategically
These aren’t sacrifices, they’re CHOICES that create freedom, flexibility, and long-term wealth for me and my family Because just because you can afford it… doesn’t mean you should!
Listen to the full episode to understand the mindset behind each one.
Hi, I’m Mapalo Makhu, your host, personal finance educator, and author of You're Not Broke, You're Pre-Rich. I hold a BCom Finance degree, a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning and a Postgraduate Diploma in Investment Planning, with over 10 years of experience in the financial services industry. More importantly, I’m deeply passionate about empowering women to take charge of their financial futures.This podcast is a judgment-free space for open and insightful conversations about money—without the confusing jargon. Whether you’re looking to budget more effectively, get out of debt, start investing, or build lasting wealth, this is the place for you.Each episode brings you practical advice, expert insights, and real conversations designed to help you make informed financial decisions with confidence. Because financial freedom isn’t just for a select few—it’s for everyone ready to take control.If you’re on a journey to financial wellness, hit follow and be part of a community committed to building wealth and securing their futures.Let’s learn, grow and thrive—together.
South Africa