
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

Nov 28, 2024 • 1h 23min
Renovation Success: How We Made $1 Million ft. Ilse Wolfe | Episode 248
In this webinar Mike and James share their journey of transforming a renovation project into a $1 million success in just 10 weeks, under expert guidance from Real Estate Investor and Coach Ilse Wolfe.
In this webinar, they dive into:
🔨 Essential steps in the renovation process
🔨 Lessons learned and challenges overcome
🔨 Insider tips for profitable investments
Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this webinar is packed with actionable advice and inspiration!
Learn more about Boardroom by Wolfe Property here
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.

Nov 26, 2024 • 26min
Insider’s Look At Queenstown Real Estate Success ft. Mark Harris | Episode 247
In this episode, we sit down with Mark Harris, Managing Director of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, delving into the experiences that shaped his journey to the top of the real estate industry. Mark shares personal stories from his formative years, insights into Queenstown’s thriving property market, and thoughts on what makes this iconic region a standout investment destination.
Learn more and to get in touch with the New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty team here
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.

Nov 24, 2024 • 25min
Auckland vs. Vancouver: The Real Cost Of Living | Episode 246
In this episode of The Takeover Makayla and Jess compare the cost of living in Auckland and Vancouver. From salaries and housing to groceries and transport, they explore whether the grass is truly greener across the Pacific—or if the challenges of affordability are universal.
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.

Nov 21, 2024 • 15min
Behind The Bargains: The Dark Side Of Black Friday | Episode 245
We uncover the dark side of Black Friday, exploring staggering sales statistics, misleading deals, and predatory debt practices. Through stories of thrift finds and regrets, we delve into the psychology behind consumerism.
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.

Nov 18, 2024 • 9min
OCR Predictions What Could This Mean For Your Mortgage? | Episode 244
Join us as we delve into the upcoming OCR announcement and its potential impact on mortgage rates. From economic factors to interest rate predictions, we break down what this means for homeowners and the housing market.
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.

Nov 17, 2024 • 45min
The Financials Of New Zealand's Largest Music Festival ft. Hamish Pinkham | Ep 243
We sat down with Hamish Pinkham, co-founder of Rhythm and Vines, to discuss the festival’s evolution from a summer project to a cultural icon, and how sustainability, strategic partnerships, and a dedicated team have contributed to its success. Tune in for insights on the financials behind the festival and what’s next for this renowned New Zealand event.
Learn more about Rhythm and Vines 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.

Nov 14, 2024 • 24min
Inside Queenstown's Real Estate Boom Ft. Mark Harris | Episode 242
We’re joined by Mark Harris, managing director of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, to discuss Queenstown’s unique property market. From international appeal to lifestyle-driven growth, Mark shares insights on future opportunities and what makes Queenstown one of New Zealand’s hottest real estate scenes.
Learn more and to get in touch with the New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty team 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.

Nov 12, 2024 • 27min
Commercial vs. Residential: Which Is The Better Investment? Ft. Scott O'Neill | Episode 241
In this episode, we sit down with the commercial property king, Scott O'Neill, Founder and CEO of Rethink Group. We compare commercial and residential property investments, highlighting the risks, rewards, and challenges of both to help you decide which investment truly wins.
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.

Nov 10, 2024 • 32min
Should You Work For The Passion Or The Pay Cheque? | Episode 240
In this episode of The Takeover, we discuss whether you should work for love or money, and how to balance financial goals with personal happiness. We explore the relationship between money, happiness, and career choices, understanding how income influences life satisfaction and how people use wealth to enhance their well-being.
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.

Nov 7, 2024 • 25min
Housing Crisis or Affordability Crisis? What's the Real Issue? Ft. James Kellow | Episode 239
In this episode, we sit down with Director of NZMS James Kellow to discuss the future of housing in New Zealand. We explore the factors shaping New Zealand’s housing market, from affordability challenges to the impact of council regulations on new builds. We discuss whether current policies are helping or hindering the future of homeownership and investment in the country.
Learn more about NZMS
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.