Denise Duffield-Thomas's Blog, page 7
April 23, 2025
Denise on the Welcome to Self Podcast
In this episode of the Welcome to Self podcast I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Hayley D Quinn for a heart-opening conversation on all things money, mindset, neurodivergence, and giving yourself permission to live a rich, fulfilling life on your own terms.
We covered so much ground in this chat – it's one of those conversations where you feel like you're sitting on the couch with a cuppa, just being seen and heard. Here's what we dived into:
I shared how my upbringing – raised by a 17-year-old single mum in a financially volatile environment – shaped my desire for financial freedom. My journey to becoming a money mentor wasn’t a straight line (spoiler: it involved internet dating ebooks and Oprah binges). But it was driven by a deep desire to share, help, and empower.
We talked through the three big blocks I see all the time:
You have to work hard to make money – and how that belief plays out differently around the world.
You can help people or make money, but not both – especially common in the helping professions.
More money, more problems – and how fear of success or visibility can sabotage us.
Daily rituals to calm your money mindset
Daily rituals to calm your money mindset
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How’s that voice in your head right now? Is your mind racing with self-doubt or negativity?
As someone who's experienced my fair share of mental chatter, I’ve learned a few daily rituals that can help calm those pesky voices telling you why you can't have something or why life can't be great.
From tapping into the power of EFT to surrounding yourself with supportive communities, in today's podcast episode we explore various techniques to calm your inner critic.
Key takeaways from this episode:
The importance of self-love and compassion in managing negative thoughts
How to use EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) to address limiting beliefs
The role of community support in gaining perspective and silencing self-doubt
Strategies for mindful consumption of media and information
Techniques for grounding yourself during periods of growth and success
We also tackle the challenge of dealing with resistance to a calling. If you've ever felt a strong pull towards something but found yourself avoiding it or going blank when you try to pursue it, you're not alone.
Remember, it's okay to start small. Even tiny steps can lead to significant progress when you're pursuing your dreams.
xx Denise
April 21, 2025
Denise on the She is Courageous Podcast
In this special episode of The She is Courageous Podcast, I had the joy of chatting with Shelley Bosworth about one of my favorite topics—creating a life and business filled with financial ease, clarity, and alignment.
I shared a bit of my own journey—from growing up in a small Australian town with a lot of money scarcity, to eventually building a multimillion-dollar business that supports women all over the world. We talked about why money mindset continues to be such a sticky challenge for so many women, and how issues like guilt, boundaries, and perfectionism show up in both life and business.
One thing we really dove into was how "success" doesn’t always mean striving for more. Sometimes, it’s about choosing differently—choosing alignment, choosing peace, and choosing courage over perfection.
I also opened up about what it means to create success on your own terms—especially as someone who proudly identifies as a "lazy introvert." Spoiler: “lazy” doesn’t mean unmotivated—it means prioritizing what truly matters and designing a business around your natural energy. You absolutely can make money with ease—without burning out or hustling 24/7.
If you're in a season of transition, just starting out, or thinking about making a bold pivot in your business or life, this episode is packed with encouragement, mindset shifts, and a reminder that you are allowed to do things your own way.
I hope it feels like a cozy, no-fluff coaching session that gives you permission to breathe, reflect, and trust yourself a little more. You’ve got this!
What We Covered:
My journey from life coach to money mentor
What it really means to “make money with ease”
Ditching people-pleasing and perfectionism
Why pricing and boundaries are so tough for women—and how to shift that
Navigating unsupportive energy from others
The courage it takes to pivot, even when things are “working”
Reframing guilt and redefining wealth on your own terms
Denise on the Embrace Midlife Podcast
In this special episode of Embrace Midlife, I had the absolute pleasure of joining Belinda Stark to talk all things money mindset—especially how it impacts women in midlife.
We dug into why so many women in this season of life shy away from their finances. It’s not because we’re bad with money—it’s often the result of deep-rooted societal conditioning and generational patterns that have taught us money is taboo or “not our responsibility.” I shared how our upbringing, family beliefs, and the culture we grow up in all contribute to the stories we carry about money, often without even realizing it.
We also explored the Sacred Money Archetypes—a tool I absolutely love—that helps you understand your natural money strengths, challenges, and patterns. Knowing your archetype can be a total game-changer in how you relate to money.
Throughout the conversation, I opened up about my own experiences and some of the money blocks I’ve had to work through, especially those passed down from previous generations. We talked about how important it is to get conscious about the money beliefs we’re modeling for our kids, too.
This episode is full of practical tips and gentle encouragement to help you reflect on your own money story and start shifting any beliefs that might be keeping you stuck. I truly believe midlife is the perfect time to create a new, more empowered relationship with money—and it’s never too late to start.
I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. And be sure to tune in next week for part two of our chat—we go even deeper!
April 16, 2025
Maintaining a positive money mindset during economic uncertainty
Maintaining a positive money mindset during economic uncertainty
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First things first, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: yes, the economy is challenging right now.
From high interest rates to general financial uncertainty, people are feeling the squeeze. But here's the thing - we can't control the economy, but we can control how we respond to it.
In my latest episode of Chill and Prosper, I tackle the burning question of finding clients during economic downturns and how to maintain a positive money mindset.
When things get tough, it's easy to spiral into panic mode. So, let's dive into some practical strategies to navigate these choppy economic waters and keep your money mindset strong.
Listen now to learn:
How to keep your business thriving when everyone seems to be tightening their belts
Acknowledging economic realities and maintaining an abundance mindset.
How to use tapping (EFT) to calm your nervous system during stressful times
Practical strategies for finding clients, even when the economy is struggling
Why you don't need to be financially "perfect" to coach others on abundance
Role-modeling healthy money attitudes for others
Whether you're a coach, entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your relationship with money, you'll find valuable insights to help you navigate today's economic landscape with a little more confidence.
Try tapping on phrases like…
"Even though I feel stressed about the economy, I choose to remain calm and focused."
This isn't about gaslighting yourself - it's about creating a mental state where you can think clearly and strategically.
Remember, in the face of uncertainty, it's all about making empowered choices. Are you ready to shift your perspective and thrive, regardless of external circumstances?
xx Denise
April 12, 2025
Denise on The Mumboss Podcast
I was on The Mumboss Podcast recently, chatting with host Lorna Lyons about:
Batching content creation
A success mindset
How to get help & support in the household to free yourself up to build your business
This conversation was absolute fire!
April 9, 2025
Business lessons from a luxury island retreat
Business lessons from a luxury island retreat
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Ever wondered what it's like to experience the world of luxury and wealth?
In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on a recent VIP trip I took, courtesy of my bank and Range Rover. While it might sound unrelatable at first, there are valuable lessons for entrepreneurs at every level.
Yep, the girl from the Central Coast boarded a helicopter to influencer island!
We were very lucky and privileged to have an opportunity like this - especially at a time when there’s a cost of living crisis and uncertainty in the world.
So I want to share the lessons from our trip to inspire you to elevate your own business offerings and mindset, regardless of your price point.
Listen to the latest Chill and Prosper episode to learn:
How luxury brands create unforgettable experiences.
The power of access; sometimes, the rich get richer simply because they have access to information and opportunities that others don't.
Tips on overcoming imposter syndrome and insecurity.
Creating memorable moments through attention to detail
Balancing luxury with authenticity in your brand
And more lessons from high-end event curation.
Despite the lavish setting, I discovered that wealthy individuals face similar challenges and insecurities. This realization can help you relate to high-end clients and create more inclusive experiences.
One thing that struck me was the abundance mindset on display. Everything was complimentary. There were no pushy sales tactics. It was all about creating a feeling of ease and generosity.
In your business, how can you create a sense of abundance for your clients? It doesn't have to be expensive - it could be as simple as offering a little extra that they weren't expecting.
This episode isn't about bragging—it's about sharing insights that can help you think bigger, create exceptional experiences, and overcome limiting beliefs about wealth and success.
I’d love to hear what ideas this episode sparks and your aha’s about your business.
xx Denise
Denise on the Speaking with Confidence Podcast
I was recently on the Speaking with Confidence Podcast, chatting with host Cat Matson. In this gorgeously real, insightful and authentic chat, we explore how I choose to use my voice, my way, so that it works with my current phase of life and business and leans into my strengths
Listen in to hear:
My preparation rituals for calming my nerves before a big presentation
Why I don't like keynotes and how instead I reframe those invitations invitations into a style that works for me
My journey in moving from delivering free presentations to paid ones
How I stay on track in presentations, and avoids those ADHD rabbit holes
Why I enjoy spontaneous presentations and discussions over prepped, rehearsed ones
How to trust the spontaneous presentation style will deliver value for your audience AND be safe for you
Why public speaking, in whatever format you choose, is a powerful way to share your voice and why we’re both such advocates for women finding theirs
Denise on the Seriously in Business Podcast
I had a fantastic chat with Jacqui from the Seriously in Business Podcast recently. We covered everything from branding and boundaries to outsourcing, ambition, and yes — even the power of bad cross-stitch.
Here are five of the biggest insights from this episode, and how you can apply them to your own business journey:
1. Consistency > Complexity in Branding
I have been known for my soft, beachy blue brand for over a decade. It’s iconic, instantly recognisable, and feels like a visual exhale. But what many people don’t realise is that this kind of consistency isn’t just about looking good — it’s about connecting consistently.
You only get a few seconds to make an impression. If your visuals are all over the place, if your tone is unpredictable, or your messaging constantly shifts, your audience won’t know what you stand for — or if you’re the right person for them.
2. Your Brand Is a Slice of You — Not All of You
As women building personal brands, it’s easy to think your business has to show all of who you are. Every mood. Every hobby. Every version of you. But remember: your brand is not your entire identity. It’s a curated, intentional slice of your personality that best supports the experience you want your clients to have.
3. Design a Business That Respects Your Energy
I take eight ballet classes a week - because I've built my business around what fuels me.
I batch content (like recording 12 podcast episodes in one day) and delegate the rest to my team, giving me more time to spend doing what brings me joy.
4. Permission to Do Things for Joy, Not Achievement
As entrepreneurs, we often feel the pull to monetise or optimise everything — even our hobbies. But part of building a sustainable business is knowing what’s just for you. Not everything needs to be posted. Not everything needs to be perfect. Not everything needs to be productive.
Make space in your life for hobbies, joy, and creative outlets that don’t need to lead somewhere. That energy will ripple into your business in ways you don’t expect.
5. Ease Doesn’t Mean Laziness — It Means Maturity
You’re allowed to do business your way. You’re allowed to build systems. You’re allowed to charge well and show up in ways that feel good. Ease is not the opposite of success — it can be the path to it.
April 2, 2025
Ask Me Anything: Budgets, guilt, and side hustles.
Ask Me Anything: Budgets, guilt and side hustles
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Welcome to this week’s Chill and Prosper episode where I’m answering all your questions on:
How to follow a budget without it triggering your scarcity mentality
Overcoming fear of failure, judgment, and being seen
How can I overcome guilt from spending on myself?
My approach to tracking my income and spending
How to pick and commit to the right side hustle for you
And a quick update on my ballet progress 🩰❤️
If you’re struggling with fear - it is costing you money. So, if you need support this year, come join us in Money Bootcamp.
My best piece of advice is to trust yourself. I love getting these questions, but most of the time, you already know the answer.
You’ll make mistakes; the fear isn’t going away, so just do it!
xx Denise
