Episode 113: The Stories Money Tells - Betty-Anne Howard on Purpose, Psychology, and Giving Back
Tue Feb 03 2026
What happens when your relationship with money is shaped by scarcity, shame, and resilience - and later transformed into a lifelong mission of generosity?
In this deeply reflective episode of Discovery Series: Unplugged, Betty-Anne Howard shares her remarkable journey from growing up in poverty in rural Ontario to becoming a respected financial planner, educator, and national voice in philanthropic planning.
Drawing on her background in social work, psychology, and emotional health, Betty-Anne explores how early money experiences shape mindset, behaviour, and decision-making - and why understanding those stories is essential for meaningful financial advice. She challenges advisors to move beyond transactions and into purpose-driven conversations that honour family, values, and legacy.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
How early experiences of scarcity shape lifelong money beliefsWhy generosity is more powerful than abundance aloneHow cognitive and behavioural frameworks can unlock better planning conversationsPractical ways advisors can introduce philanthropy and legacy with empathyWhy imagination, curiosity, and emotional intelligence matter in modern financial planningThis episode is a powerful reminder that legacy isn’t about how much you have - it’s about how intentionally you choose to give, serve, and make an impact.
More
What happens when your relationship with money is shaped by scarcity, shame, and resilience - and later transformed into a lifelong mission of generosity? In this deeply reflective episode of Discovery Series: Unplugged, Betty-Anne Howard shares her remarkable journey from growing up in poverty in rural Ontario to becoming a respected financial planner, educator, and national voice in philanthropic planning. Drawing on her background in social work, psychology, and emotional health, Betty-Anne explores how early money experiences shape mindset, behaviour, and decision-making - and why understanding those stories is essential for meaningful financial advice. She challenges advisors to move beyond transactions and into purpose-driven conversations that honour family, values, and legacy. In this episode, you’ll hear: How early experiences of scarcity shape lifelong money beliefsWhy generosity is more powerful than abundance aloneHow cognitive and behavioural frameworks can unlock better planning conversationsPractical ways advisors can introduce philanthropy and legacy with empathyWhy imagination, curiosity, and emotional intelligence matter in modern financial planningThis episode is a powerful reminder that legacy isn’t about how much you have - it’s about how intentionally you choose to give, serve, and make an impact.