How to unlock your earning power

Roxanne Calder is a recruitment expert, business founder, and author of the eye-opening book Earning Power.

In this episode, Cec and Roxanne unpack the core moments that shape our financial futures, from pay negotiations and navigating maternity leave to the small, everyday decisions that can make a big difference over time. With the gender pay gap costing women a million dollars over their lifetime, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

Roxanne shares hard-hitting facts, personal insights, and actionable strategies to help women, and anyone supporting them, close the pay gap and take control of their earning potential.

Key topics

1. Understanding & Combating the Gender Pay Gap

• Women can lose over $1 million due to the pay gap over a career.

• Factors include discrimination, career breaks (like maternity leave), and industry choice.

• The importance of being proactive and informed to minimize the impact.

2. The Power of Mindset and Self-Advocacy

• Women are often conditioned to underestimate their abilities or hesitate in seeking opportunities.

• Men tend to apply for roles even if underqualified, while women may hold back if not 100% qualified.

• Practicing negotiation, challenging self-doubt, and confidently asserting value are crucial to bridging the gap.

3. Planning Career Breaks and Re-Entry

• Financial and career planning before, during, and after maternity leave is essential.

• Stay connected to your workplace and keep skills updated during breaks.

• Open conversations with partners and employers about financial goals and upskilling can foster a smoother return.

4. Practical Steps for Business Owners & Professionals

• Know and confidently communicate your worth—don’t undervalue your services or accept less than deserved.

• Incremental, sustainable changes (like small savings or upskilling) can compound over time.

• It’s never too late to improve your financial trajectory—micro-decisions matter.

Time stamped overview

00:00 Closing the Workforce Gender Gap

04:46 Gender Wage Disparity in Graduates

10:17 Impact of Maternity on Women’s Finances

12:51 Realistic Planning for Maternity Leave

15:31 Know Your Worth in Negotiations

19:43 Empower Change: Choose Your Path

23:23 Resilient Recruiter: Value and Commitment

27:31 Small Steps, Big Impact

30:01 “Smart Savings Habits from First Pay”

31:29 “Earning Power: Take Financial Control”

Listen now:

Presenter: Cec Busby
Audio: Matt Jackson