Financial Autonomy

Buying property is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make… and most people are just kind of winging it. You're going to inspections, watching prices, trying to read between the lines on listings, and still not sure if something's actually good value or if you're about to overpay. So this week, Nick sits down with buyer's advocate Mel Dennis to break down what actually matters when you're buying property. They unpack how to work out what a property is really worth, the mistakes buyers don't realise they're making until it's too late, and how to handle the negotiation so you don't end up paying more than you needed to. If you're in the market, or even just starting to think about it, this gives you a clear approach so you can make the call and buy with confidence. Inside this episode: Why doing your research still doesn't guarantee you won't overpay The three things you're always balancing when you buy, and how to prioritise them How to actually work out what a property is worth (not just what it's listed for) The due diligence most buyers think they've done… but haven't What experienced buyers look at that others don't How negotiations really work (and where people end up paying more) Why some properties grow in value... and others don't WANT TO STAY ACROSS WHAT'S MOVING THE MARKETS?: Subscribe to GainingCHOICE, our weekly email unpacking the key headlines and what to pay attention to. GOT A FINANCE QUESTION FOR PAUL?: Send it to [email protected], and it could be featured in his Ask an Expert column each Sunday in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald. General advice disclaimer

War is escalating, oil prices are rising and markets are reacting. So what does that actually mean for your investments and retirement? In this episode, we go beyond the headlines to unpack what's really happening, and answer the big question investors are asking right now: do I need to act? Inside this episode: • What war and rising oil prices are actually doing to markets • Why volatility makes even experienced investors second-guess themselves • The common mistake people make when reacting to headlines • How to think about your investments when things feel uncertain • The one question to ask before making any move WANT TO STAY ACROSS WHAT'S MOVING THE MARKETS?: Subscribe to GainingCHOICE, our weekly email unpacking the key headlines and what to pay attention to. GOT A FINANCE QUESTION FOR PAUL?: Send it to [email protected], and it could be featured in his Ask an Expert column each Sunday in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald. General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to accountant David Markovski about franking credits and how to get the most out of them. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

Divorce often requires a major financial reset, and knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we outline a practical roadmap to help rebuild financial stability after separation. We cover redefining your goals, understanding your remaining working years, and making smart housing decisions. We also discuss rebuilding cashflow clarity, updating estate planning, and reviewing insurance needs. If you're navigating life after divorce, this episode offers a clear framework to help you move forward with confidence. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to James Brannan from BlockByte Capital about mitigating risks when investing in cryptocurrencies in an ever-evolving market. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

In this episode, we explore what it means to invest with a time frame that stretches beyond your own lifespan. When personal financial security is already assured, the conversation can evolve from lifestyle funding to building capital designed to support generations to come. We unpack why inflation becomes the greatest risk, why growth assets like shares and property take priority, and how approaches such as index investing align with ultra-long horizons. Beyond strategy, we discuss the human side of legacy — financial literacy, shared purpose, and open conversations — and the deeper question of why building wealth for future generations truly matters. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about what to consider before retiring early Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

Gold rose 74% last year and silver surged 185%, but do those eye-catching returns actually justify investing in precious metals? In this episode, we explore what's driving current market anxiety, the case for and against gold as a safe haven, and whether it truly protects against inflation. We break down diversification benefits, long-term return realities, behavioural risks, and the pros and cons of physical gold, ETFs, and mining shares—before answering the real question: do precious metals belong in a disciplined investment portfolio, and if so, how much? Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to James Brannan from BlockByte Capital to explain the basics of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

Retiring earlier isn't about winning the lotto — it's about understanding the financial levers that actually move the needle. In this episode, we explore five practical strategies Australians can use to bring retirement forward, including maximising super contributions, improving spending efficiency, reviewing asset allocation, tapping into home equity, and easing the transition with part-time work. Retirement is ultimately about choice, and having the option to step away earlier — even if you don't take it — is a powerful form of financial autonomy. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host and financial planner Paul Benson about 9 new year's resolutions to kickstart your 2026 financial journey. Tune in to make this your year! Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

In this episode, we step back from the day-to-day financial noise and take a long-term view with the 10 Year Wealth Test, asking the key question: are you on track for 2036? Using the power of compounding and clear goal setting, the episode outlines a simple four-step framework to assess where you are now, define your 2036 financial vision, put numbers around what success looks like, and build practical strategies and milestones to keep you on course. If you're seeking more clarity, confidence, and choice in your financial future, this episode will help you start planning the next decade with intention. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to expert marketer and international speaker Ethan Donati about his journey and the strategies and tips he would give for building confidence, personal branding, and a strong mindset. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

As you approach retirement, the question of whether to keep or sell your investment property becomes increasingly important. This episode explores how retirement reshapes your financial priorities, why property can shift from a growth asset to a source of complexity, and the key reasons many retirees choose to sell. From improving cashflow and reducing stress to making better use of tax-free superannuation income, it helps you assess whether your investment property still supports the lifestyle, flexibility, and confidence you want in retirement.

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about using debt to build wealth. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

Your 40s and 50s are a crucial window for shaping your financial future—but many people start coasting without realising it. In this episode, we break down the cost of delaying action and share simple, high-impact steps to strengthen your long-term wealth. Tune in to make these years count. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Ange Belot from Cheeky Kookaburra on starting and growing a successful small business. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

In this episode, we break down private equity and private credit—two fast-growing but often misunderstood parts of the investment world. We explore how they work, why super funds love them, and why private credit might be the most likely trigger of the next market downturn. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick and Paul discuss the topic of the moment - are stock markets, particularly the US market, in an AU fuelled bubble, with an inevitable bust somewhere on the not too distant horizon? Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

In this episode, we dive into the real power of opportunity cost and how it shapes every financial decision — from insurance and investing to lifestyle choices and where you keep your savings. Learn how recognising trade-offs can help you make clearer, more intentional decisions and ensure your money is working toward what matters most. It's a fresh, practical lens that can help you take control of your financial direction. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Sheredyn Legg and Stephen Fries about testamentary trusts and who they might be good for. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

Earning $100,000 a year in retirement — tax free — might sound too good to be true, but Australia's superannuation system makes it possible with the right planning. In this episode, we break down how it works, the rules you need to know, and the strategies that can get you there. We cover the superannuation pension phase, the transfer balance cap, and key ways to grow and structure your super for maximum tax-free income. If you're serious about building long-term wealth and securing a comfortable retirement, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer

This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Guidance team member Brenden Butler about ways to build financial security in your thirties. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer