Alex McMillan

After completing my business degree, I knew an institutional banking career was never going to be the right fit for me. I’m passionate about building warm relationships with people, normalising money talk into everyday English and rolling my sleeves up to help clients grow wealth and gain financial freedom. 

In 2023 (shortly after the birth of my daughter - immaculate timing on my behalf) I started Seedli. In my previous practice I had contributed to a successful but generalist financial planning business, and I knew deep down I wanted to focus on helping people make smart money moves earlier in life. I find it deeply fulfilling to help clients plant the seeds of future wealth by making smart, informed decisions early in their careers. So that’s what we focus on at Seedli - we’re for the grow getters, the ambitious professionals who prefer work to be a want-to, not a have-to.

Question time

What’s a moment or experience that shaped who you are today?

Growing up in an international environment had a massive influence on how I view the world. I lived 12 years of my childhood in Indonesia, interacting with different cultures, perspectives and experiences. I draw on this upbringing regularly to empathise and connect with my clients - we all have such different backgrounds and being able to relate to anyone is one of my core strengths.

If your life right now had a soundtrack, what three songs would be on it and why?

• “Up Up & Away” - Kid Cudi
  • A straight up banger that’s been a feature of my playlists ever since it came out. It re-energises me every time and reminds me of what we’re building here at Seedli.
• “Giving Up Air” - The Temper Trap
  • This. Slaps. Hard. Effervescent, uplifting and full of charisma. 
• “Indecision” - Sampha
  • Return of the prodigal son. IYKYK - let it all work out.

What’s a hot take you’ll defend forever, even if everyone else disagrees?

You don’t need avocado on toast - not because it’ll keep you from buying a home, but because it’s awful!

What’s one small habit or decision that’s quietly helped your financial life (even if it wasn’t intentional)?

Never take the easy decision on the table. It’s always better to struggle at first and learn from it.

What’s something you’re completely obsessed with at the moment: a show, hobby, book, podcast, or random niche interest?

My reading is dominated by my daughter’s books these days (we go to the library every Monday to borrow a fresh batch of books), so shout out to Alison Lestor for writing some beautiful stories (especially Kissed by the Moon).

If your younger self asked you for one piece of money advice that isn’t boring or preachy, what would you tell them?

Don’t start cycling, it’s a vicious cycle of spending that you’ll never escape from! (although you should see my new bike - it’s a beaut!)