So true, Aura! There’s this HUGE misconception that being creative and financially literate are mutually exclusive things, and a big part of it is the lack of education about it. This was one of the main reasons why I wanted to bring Manjula on the show. While this episode is a good start to the conversation, the money discussion is far from over and I hope to have more guests addressing this issue on the show in the future.

I also completely agree about the secrecy and how it does NOT benefit writers (especially those just starting out). Funny story: I remember a discussion about publishing in one of my writing classes and during the Q&A I decided to ask the tough question. “So, we’ve heard about the big, fancy advances writers get, but for the sake of being realistic, what might a debut author expect for their first book deal. I’d love to hear actual numbers and not just vague conjectures.” A collective gasp rippled through the room as all my fellow classmates looked shocked and horrified, but I do not regret asking the question. FYI I never got a straight answer either.

The truth all this secrecy is only benefits the people already making a lot of money. The only way for up-and-comers to find their footing is for those already established to create some transparency. There are definitely some writers and artists helping to pave the way for more open conversations about money, we’re onto a good start, but there’s definitely still a ways to go.