
Cheques and Balances
Whether you're buying your first home, tackling debt, or building long-term wealth, we’ll show you how to make smarter money moves. With over 20 years of combined experience as qualified financial advisers, James Blair and Michael Vincent share straight-talking advice, practical strategies, and real conversations about money - all to help you take control of your financial future with confidence.
Check out our website below:
lighthousefinancial.co.nz
Latest episodes

May 29, 2025 • 14min
Switch and Save: How To Cut Your Bills In Half This Season | Episode 328
Don’t let winter bills freeze your budget. We break down practical ways to save on power, gas, internet, and insurance by comparing plans, dodging loyalty traps, and using tools like Powerswitch to find better deals.Next Steps: Saving on power is great—but don’t stop there. If you’re wondering whether you’re getting the best deal on your mortgage, Lighthouse mortgages can help. Chat to the team todayFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 27, 2025 • 16min
Investing 101: Future-Proofing Your Wealth | Episode 327
Your no-nonsense guide to getting started with investing.We break down the four key asset classes — cash, bonds, shares, and property — explain the pros and cons of each, unpack common mistakes, and show you how to build a smart, long-term portfolio. Perfect for beginners and a solid reset for experienced investors.Next Steps: Whether you're just starting out or looking to fine-tune an existing portfolio, Lighthouse Wealth can build an investment strategy tailored to your goals - offering independent advice, access to high-quality research, and smart solutions designed to grow and protect your wealth over the long term.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 27, 2025 • 11min
OCR Predictions: How much will they cut? | Episode 326
OCR cuts, budget moves, and Trump’s trade threats—everything’s in motion. We break down what’s likely next for the cash rate, how the 2025 Budget could spark economic stimulus, and whether global politics might stall the recovery.Next Steps: If you’re wondering how a potential OCR cut could affect your mortgage, Lighthouse Mortgages can help you structure smarter lending for the road ahead. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 25, 2025 • 13min
Debt-Free by 50: $5 Million Retirement Story | Episode 325
Same income. Two very different financial futures.We dive into a powerful client case study — the story of “Bob,” a high-income earner whose financial trajectory diverges dramatically depending on whether he has a plan. From coasting through life to building a $5 million asset base, we break down the real cost of inaction and the small steps that can change everything.Next Steps: Earning good money but not getting ahead? Lighthouse Wealth builds smart financial plans that turn income into long-term wealth . Book a free consultation here.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 22, 2025 • 15min
Budget 2025 Explained: What the KiwiSaver Changes Mean for You | Episode 324
Did the government get it right? We dive into the biggest shake-ups to KiwiSaver since the scheme began—Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ new 2025 Budget includes cuts to government contributions, new eligibility for teens, rising minimums, and a fresh set of trade-offs for your future retirement balance.Next Steps: If these KiwiSaver changes have you wondering whether your fund, provider, or contribution level is right for you - Lighthouse Financial can help. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 20, 2025 • 13min
Q1 Property Market Update: Why We’re Buying When Everyone Else Isn’t | Episode 323
When everyone else is sitting still, we’re making moves. we unpack why now might be the smartest time to buy, even amid uncertainty, slow sentiment, and a flood of listings—and why we're backing our strategy with action in both city centres and the regions.Next Steps: Thinking about taking the plunge? Talk to Lighthouse Mortgages—whether it's strategy, pre-approval or finding the right deal, we’ve got your back from planning to purchase.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 20, 2025 • 11min
KiwiSaver Changes Are Coming: Will the Government Get It Right? | Episode 322
The government’s about to drop major changes to KiwiSaver - here’s what you need to know before it hits. We break down what the National-led government is likely to announce, the impact on your retirement savings, and the big fixes we think are long overdue - including mandatory contributions and better support for the self-employed.Next Steps: Not sure if your KiwiSaver’s set up right? Book a free chat with a Lighthouse Financial advisor and get a clear, tailored strategy for your future here.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 18, 2025 • 12min
Should You Pay Down Debt Or Invest? | Episode 321
Should you crush your mortgage or chase investment gains? We unpack one of the most common financial dilemmas Kiwis face—whether to prioritise debt repayment or start investing. They break down the maths, the psychology, and the myths to help you make smarter money moves.Next Steps: If you’re still tossing up whether to pay off debt or invest, our clients don’t have to—because they’ve got a financial plan tailored to their goals. Book in a free consultation here. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 15, 2025 • 23min
How to get ahead financially when you're single | Episode 320
Being single doesn't mean falling behind. Jess and Makayla dive into practical, empowering ways single Kiwis can get ahead financially—whether it's buying your first home on one income, making the most of your budget, or protecting your biggest asset: your income. They bust myths, share real client stories, and deliver clear strategies to help you build wealth and take control of your financial future—no partner required.Next Steps: Ready to take control of your finances? Book a free discovery session with Lighthouse Wealth and get a personalised plan that works for you—no matter your relationship status.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.

May 13, 2025 • 22min
How to Help Your Kids Financially: The Smart, Sustainable Way | Episode 319
Want to give your kids a leg-up without jeopardising your own retirement? We break down smart, sustainable ways to support your children financially—covering investments, gifting, and co-ownership—while keeping your goals on track, protecting your assets, and raising financially savvy kids.Next Steps: Thinking of helping your kids onto the property ladder? Talk to a Lighthouse adviser about the smartest way to gift, loan, or co-own—without putting your finances at risk.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.