Australian Finance Podcast

This discussion dives into the intricacies of fixed versus variable mortgage rates, exploring the trade-offs that influence people's decisions. Owen and Gemma shed light on common money clashes between couples and offer practical techniques to ease those conversations. They also break down geared ETFs, emphasizing their suitability for super funds over personal portfolios. Additionally, the hosts tackle concerns about financial security if major fund managers fail, explaining how ETF structures and diversification can protect investors.

Chris Kohler, a finance journalist and author of 'They Get You,' dives into the psychological tricks of consumerism. He reveals how modern businesses subtly separate you from your money, leveraging invisible costs of convenience and loyalty programs. Kohler sheds light on the dangerous normalization of gambling and the sneaky tactics found in subscription services. With humor and insight, he encourages listeners to be more mindful and take control of their finances—making economics accessible and engaging for everyone.

In this conversation, Roxanne Calder, a recruitment expert with 25 years of international experience, shares insights from her book, Earning Power. She discusses the staggering lifetime cost of the gender pay gap, emphasizing that individual decisions can compound to lose over a million dollars. Roxanne unveils her 'million-dollar formula' for boosting earning power and provides practical self-advocacy tips for salary negotiations. She also highlights the importance of strategic career moves and encourages small, mindful financial habits for lasting impact.

Discover ten practical money hacks to transform your finances in 2024. Learn how toy libraries and tool libraries can save you money and space. Explore the benefits of renting before committing to big purchases, like e-bikes. Automate your finances to simplify tracking and identify unused accounts. Use cash-back browser tools for effortless savings. Unsubscribe from marketing emails to curb impulse buying. From annual memberships to avoiding hefty ambulance fees, these tips are all about making small changes that lead to significant savings.

In this episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, you'll learn how and why insurance works. Life insurance, income protection, TPD & more. Owen Rask is joined by Phil Thompson, founder of Skye Wealth, to unpack what really happens when you make an insurance claim. They go behind the scenes on: – How insurance claims actually work – What mistakes people make when trying to claim – The vital difference between "own" vs "any" occupation cover – Why you should never go straight to a lawyer when claiming – The most common issues that stop people getting paid – Real client case studies and what went right (or wrong!) If you're curious about income protection, trauma cover, life insurance, or TPD claims, this episode shows how good insurance advice can make a huge difference. Enjoying the show? Subscribe for weekly episodes on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favourite app. Topics Covered – What really happens when you make an insurance claim – Why people often don’t realise they’re eligible for a claim – The difference between retail vs group/super insurance – Why having an adviser at claim time can save you money – The role of the waiting period and how it affects payment – Real claim case study: Chloe’s chronic fatigue income protection win – Real claim case study: Chandler’s RSI and $1.3 million TPD cover – Real claim case study: Rebecca’s mental health claim from a workplace accident – The danger of going straight to lawyers before talking to your adviser – Own occupation vs any occupation: what’s the difference? – Why good documentation and honesty make a successful claim – What to do if you’ve had time off work or a medical condition – The risk of underinsurance and how to get help Resources for this episode Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Alex Luck, founder of Everest Wealth Group and savvy financial adviser, as he shares insights on personal finance and investments. He reveals his diverse portfolio, including shares, ETFs, property, and crypto. Tackling listener questions, he discusses whether a 19-year-old should invest in property or wait for first-home grants, the pros and cons of salary sacrificing shares, and strategies for students investing $100 a month. Alex also dives into estate planning for singles and how to balance quick investments with long-term goals.

This week, the discussion tackles whether to save in high-yield accounts or invest after setting aside an emergency fund. They explore using multiple brokers, weighing the pros and cons of core and satellite portfolios. A spotlight on investment bonds for kids uncovers tax considerations and provider selection. Plus, insights on exiting rentvesting and the complexities of selling properties while managing tax implications. Lastly, they clarify what happens to HECS-HELP debt after death, shedding light on estate responsibilities.

Learn how to invest your first $1,000 with clear, practical steps. Discover why your initial investment is more impactful than you think. Gemma explains how to choose the right investment platform and pick simple, diversified options without getting overwhelmed. Automation helps ease emotional pressure, making consistency your ally. Avoid rookie mistakes like chasing hot tips or trying to time the market. This guide empowers you to build a solid foundation for your financial future.

Emma Edwards, a financial behavior expert and author of The Wardrobe Project, shares her transformative journey of a year-long no-buy challenge. She reveals how her relationship with money, body image, and confidence evolved throughout the challenge. Emma discusses overcoming temptation, the role of community support, and practical strategies to reduce impulse spending. She highlights the surprising benefits of creativity and resilience gained from not shopping, and offers insights for anyone looking to reset their spending habits for a healthier financial mindset.

In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask unpack your questions on investing, super, HECS and even a Christmas dilemma. This week we look at how to build a simple investment profile when you’re 58 and deciding between ETFs in super or outside of it, how paid parental leave really works in 2026, and what to do when your HECS balance never seems to budge. We also cover how to help a level headed 16 year old get started with investing, plus a common holiday question many families face. Do you stick to the Secret Santa limit, or match everyone else who’s blowing the budget? This episode also includes quick updates on HECS indexation changes, the Bureau of Meteorology blowout, and what it means for your hip pocket. Owen and Gemma cover: - How to compare investing inside super versus a direct ETF portfolio when you’re 58, earning well and contributing regularly - Why non concessional contributions can be powerful in your late 50s, and the key rules to understand - How employer paid parental leave works alongside the government scheme, how long each runs for, and how to apply - When HECS repayments start, why your balance might not be falling, and whether paying extra makes sense - How to teach teens the basics of investing, the best beginner podcasts, and easy ways to start with $15k - Whether you should stick to the Secret Santa limit or spend more, and how to set boundaries without killing the vibe - Updates on HECS balances, indexation, the BOM budget blowout and what it means for everyday Australians If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes. Resources for this episode Sign up for the newsletter Sign up for Rask Core Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices