Her Money, Her Worth: Why Financial Literacy Isn’t Optional, and How We Can Start Changing the Narrative, One Conversation at a Time

If there’s one topic that I hold close to my heart, it’s this: women’s financial literacy and independence.

In a world that has seen women enter boardrooms, lead multinationals, and run countries, it’s disheartening that many still remain on the margins when it comes to understanding, managing, and growing their money. Earning money is just one piece of the puzzle. True freedom lies in knowing how to make that money work for you.

That’s why this week’s episode of The AboutHer Show, titled “Her Money, Her Worth”, is a special one. I had the privilege of hosting two seasoned professionals who not only understand the world of finance deeply but are also passionate about democratizing it.

Meet the Experts

Nitika Khiwani Sood

A Chartered Accountant, LL.B graduate, Certified CSR Professional, POSH Trainer, and Independent Director, Nitika wears many hats. With over 16 years of experience, she’s worked across Big 4 firms and today, as a Partner at Khiwani Sood & Associates, she guides clients across governance, taxation, and financial regulation. Her lived experience as a woman in finance makes her voice not just expert, but authentic.

Ankit Jain

A global finance leader and co-founder of Mercurius Advisory Services, Ankit brings over 25 years of experience across PwC (India & Canada), American Express (India & Japan), and now his own fast-scaling advisory firm. Known for his practical insights and people-first approach, Ankit believes in mentoring the next generation, especially when it comes to financial planning, compliance, and wealth creation.

Why This Episode Matters

The episode opens with a powerful truth: financial independence and financial freedom are not the same.
Earning money does not guarantee that you are free from financial dependence. Are you in control of how your money is spent? Do you know where it is invested? Could you take a sabbatical and still stay afloat, emotionally and financially? If the answer is no, you’re not alone.

Also Read: Stories of Reinvention, Bold Women & Mumbai’s Magic- Vrushali Samant on The AboutHer Show

Nitika aptly puts it:

“Financial freedom is when my money works for me, not just when I work for money.”

This sets the tone for a rich, nuanced conversation that unpacks everything from mindset and early conditioning to structural gaps and real-life tools.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Early Conditioning Shapes Long-Term Confidence

Both Nitika and Ankit share how money conversations, or the lack of them, at home shaped their perspectives. While Ankit was brought into investment meetings as a teen, Nitika noticed that even financially independent women in her family weren’t involved in actual financial decisions.

“Girls are taught to save. Boys are taught to invest. That’s where the gap begins.”

2. Mindset Is the Biggest Barrier

Society has long made money a “man’s domain.” Women hesitate to ask questions, fearing they’ll be seen as ignorant or too assertive. This conditioning around image consciousness stops many from taking bold financial steps, even when they earn well.

Workplaces Can Be Game Changers

Ankit shares how small interventions, like helping a Gen Z employee open a demat account, can completely shift money habits. He urges companies to make financial literacy part of their wellness programs.

“We do sessions on leadership and mental health. Why not on financial clarity?”

3. Global Models Offer Inspiration

From microfinance in Bangladesh to financial literacy integrated into Canadian schools, Ankit explains how other countries treat women as economic agents, not dependents. India must do the same, beginning at the family dinner table, where money talk becomes as normal as meal planning.

4. The Role of Campaigns & Community

Nitika recommends money circles, safe spaces where women can share, learn, and grow without judgment. Ankit envisions a nationwide campaign titled “My Money, My Rules,” where women-led content in regional languages makes finance accessible to everyone, from homemakers to professionals.

5. Advice to the 25-Year-Old Woman

Their advice? Start early. Stay curious. Learn one thing at a time. You don’t need to be an expert, just involved.

“Don’t wait to be good at finance. Just begin.” — Ankit Jain

A Quote to Carry With You

“Financial empowerment for a woman is not about throwing her into the deep sea. It’s about teaching her to swim from the start.”
— Nitika Khiwani Sood

Why You Should Listen

Whether you’re a young woman entering the workforce, a parent trying to model better money habits, or a leader creating inclusive workplaces, this episode is your practical, personal, and powerful guide.

Also Read: The Hidden Cost of “I Deserve This”

It reminds us that financial freedom is not a luxury, it’s a life skill.

Let’s talk about money. Let’s make it normal. Let’s make it ours.

🎧 Tune In to the Full Episode

🎙️ The AboutHer Show – S3E121: Her Money, Her Worth
▶️ Spotify: https://shorturl.at/Xnu24
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HWyXxzjpl4
🌐 Website: https://aboutherbysangeeta.com/

Call to Action

Loved what you heard? Share this episode with a friend, daughter, or colleague — and start a money conversation today. Because when women learn the language of money, they learn to own their power.

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