
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

Dec 22, 2024 • 31min
Our Top Share Market and Economic Insights of 2024 | Episode 258
In this episode, we highlight some of the top share market and economic insights of 2024, featuring expert guests Jarrod Kerr, Chief Economist at Kiwibank, Sam Stubbs, Founder of Simplicity, Dean Anderson, Founder of Kernel, and Murray Harris, Head of KiwiSaver at Milford. From share market trends to KiwiSaver strategies and investment tips, these top insights will help guide your financial decisions in 2025 and beyond.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
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The 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.

Dec 19, 2024 • 22min
2024 Financial Review: From Boom To Bust | Episode 257
The 2024 Financial Review—the episode you’ve been waiting for! Join Mike, James, Makayla, and Jess as they break down the year’s highs, lows, and everything in between. From rising unemployment and government deficits to housing affordability and personal finance hurdles, we cover the key trends shaping New Zealand’s economy in 2024. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the hosts' own financial wins and setbacks.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
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The 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.

Dec 17, 2024 • 29min
2025 Property Predictions ft Matthew Horncastle | Episode 256
In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Horncastle, Managing Director of Williams Corporation to unpack his insights on New Zealand's property market for 2025. From government spending to tax policies and housing growth predictions, we explore the key factors shaping the year ahead and what they mean for all Kiwis.
Learn more about Williams Corporation here
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 15, 2024 • 34min
3,000 Homes: Bought, Sold, or Transformed ft. Steve Goodey | Episode 255
In this episode, we sit down with Steve Goodey, property coach and investor, to explore the state of New Zealand’s property market and its future in 2025. From foreign buyer regulations to innovative investment strategies, Steve shares candid insights and strategies for navigating the ever-changing real estate landscape.
Learn more about Steve Goodey Property Coaching here
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 12, 2024 • 15min
How To Save Thousands In Tax In 2025 ft. Matt Harris | Episode 254
In this episode, we sat down with Matt Harris, our very own Managing Director here at Lighthouse Financial, to uncover practical strategies for minimising your tax bill in 2025. From the importance of tidy records to optimising property structures and leveraging chattels valuations, Matt shares actionable advice to help you keep more of your hard-earned money.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 10, 2024 • 31min
Active KiwiSaver vs. Passive ft. Murray Harris | Episode 253
In this episode, we sat down with Murray Harris, Head of KiwiSaver at Milford, to explore the performance of active versus passive KiwiSaver funds and why active management continues to deliver strong returns. Murray also shares insights into Milford’s investment strategies, the importance of research, and how KiwiSaver could support New Zealand’s future growth.
Learn more about Milford here
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 8, 2024 • 20min
5 Money Saving Hacks For Summer | Episode 252
In this episode of The Takeover, Makayla and Jess explore five smart ways to stretch your budget this summer. From choosing the best seasonal splurges to uncovering clever savings tips, you’ll discover how to make your money go further during the warmer months.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 5, 2024 • 30min
Habits Of The Worlds Top CEO's ft. Markets With Madison | Episode 251
In this episode, we sit down with Madison Reidy, the driving force behind Markets with Madison. From rocket launches to Wall Street, Madison shares how curiosity and bold ambition have shaped her career, offering unique insights into the industries and people redefining our future, including the habits and lessons of the world’s top CEOs.
Learn more from Markets With Madison here
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 3, 2024 • 22min
Commercial Property: Australia vs New Zealand ft. Scott O'Neill | Episode 250
In this episode, we sit down with Scott O'Neill, CEO and founder of Rethink Group, to explore the key considerations for Australians and New Zealanders investing in commercial property across the Tasman. From financing and tax differences to natural hazards and market opportunities, Scott shares insights on diversification, due diligence, and timing for maximising returns in a dynamic property market.
Learn more about Rethink Group here
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
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The 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.

Dec 1, 2024 • 26min
How To Buy A Bargain In The Property Market | Episode 249
In this episode, James and Mike explore the journey of securing a property bargain, from navigating deceased estates to handling unexpected repairs. Learn how to assess risks, negotiate effectively, and uncover hidden value in a competitive market.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life.
For more money tips follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
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The 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.