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
Mar 2, 2025 • 14min
Ultimate Guide To Kid Friendly Investing | Episode 288
In this episode, we explore how to give your family’s next generation a financial head start. From smart savings strategies to unlocking the power of long-term growth, we break down how parents can set their kids up for financial success—without sacrificing their own future. Whether you're considering KiwiSaver, investment funds, or teaching money lessons early, this is your go-to guide for building generational wealth the right way.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 27, 2025 • 21min
What SMART Investors Always Look for in Properties! Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 287
In this episode, we’re joined by Adam Farrell, Director of Lighthouse Property, to break down what smart investors always look for in properties. From understanding property titles to identifying high-growth areas and making confident buying decisions, Adam shares expert insights to help you maximise your property investments.Register for Adams upcoming property investment webinar hereRegister for APIA’s ‘Power Skills for Investment Success’ workshop.Get your FREE ticket with code ‘BESTPOD’ at checkout.Date: 11th March 2025 | Location: Parnell, Auckland Register nowThis episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 25, 2025 • 15min
How Much Do You REALLY Need To Retire? | Episode 286
In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest financial questions—how much do you need to retire? We break down the key factors, from lifestyle costs to investment strategies, and share a simple rule of thumb to help you estimate your retirement number. Whether you're just starting out or catching up later in life, this episode will help you take control of your financial future.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 23, 2025 • 27min
How Financial Advisers Budget Their Money | Episode 285
In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Mikayla break down how they manage their own budgets, offering a step-by-step guide to structuring finances. They discuss the 50/30/20 rule, unexpected expenses, and strategies for automating bills and setting up smart spending buckets. Plus, they highlight the importance of balancing savings with spending and creating a budget that actually works in real life.Learn more about PocketSmith hereThis episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 20, 2025 • 17min
What To Do With Your KiwiSaver in 2025 | Episode 284
In this episode, we break down what you should be doing with your KiwiSaver in 2025, covering the top-performing growth and aggressive funds, socially responsible options, and key factors to consider when choosing a provider. We also discuss common mistakes, when to switch funds, and how to maximise your returns for retirement or a first home.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 18, 2025 • 43min
How to Transition from Employee to Entrepreneur Without Going Broke Ft. Stanley Henry | Episode 283
In this episode, we sit down with Stanley Henry, CEO of The Attention Seeker, to discuss his journey of scaling a global marketing agency. Stanley shares insights on the power of personal branding, taking bold risks, and what it takes to build a thriving business.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 16, 2025 • 10min
OCR Predictions: What Rate Cuts Mean for Kiwis & Their Wallets | Episode 282
In this episode, we dive into our OCR predictions, what further cuts could mean for Kiwi mortgage holders, and how global events—like Trump’s economic moves—might influence New Zealand’s financial future. Plus, we break down whether term deposits are still a smart move and how these changes could impact Kiwis and their back pocket.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
Live Workshop: How To Maximise Your 2024 Tax Return Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 281
Join Matt Harris and James Blair as they unpack everything you need to know for your 2024 tax return—must-know deductions, key compliance tips, and strategies to keep more cash in your pocket.Listen to next: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/uIT3pAcAMQbFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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.
Feb 11, 2025 • 20min
Hey First Home Buyers! Don’t let Property Developers Trick You Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 280
In this episode, we are joined by Adam Farrell Director of Lighthouse Property to uncover the sneaky tactics property developers use to make deals seem better than they really are—like misleading bedroom sizes, hidden defects, and tricky negotiation strategies. We also share expert tips on how to spot red flags, negotiate smarter, and avoid getting caught out when buying a property.This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
Feb 9, 2025 • 18min
5 Tax Hacks You Didn't Know About Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 279
In this episode, we're joined by Matt Harris, Managing Director here at Lighthouse Financial, as he shares his top tax-saving strategies. From home office deductions to personal insurance and smart investment structures, Matt breaks down practical ways to help you keep more money in your pocket. Tune in to discover how to maximise your tax return and minimise your liability!This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeThe 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
