Making Cents

Time to talk about what will actually move the needle for you in 2026, and help you feel more confident with your money.Whether it’s property, investing, KiwiSaver, or just feeling calmer about the decisions you’re making, we’re covering the things you actually need to know.We’ll be talking about what an election year really means for your money, how to think about the economy as it starts to turn, where people accidentally trip up during this phase, and how to set yourself up so your money feels easier, not harder, in 2026Frances Cook brings in her favourite experts to tackle the different areas of your money that you should know more about:realestate.co.nz's Vanessa Williams, to answer your burning questions about the property marketTVNZ business reporter Jason Walls, for the big picture on the economy and political forces in play this yearEnableMe head strategic coach Katie Wesney, for the investing and KiwiSaver insights you need to knowFollow me everywhere!Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZInstagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknzTikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknzJoin the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribeThis podcast was filmed & produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana ByrneAudio engineering by Tash Chittock

Money panic doesn’t always come from not having enough. Sometimes it comes from suddenly having far more than you ever expected - $8 million more, to be exact. This week’s Ask the Experts letter comes from a couple who spent 40 years dairy farming, living with constant debt and tight cashflow. Now they’ve sold the farm and their financial reality has flipped overnight. A dream problem? Maybe. But sudden wealth is notoriously risky. Will White from Heartland Bank is in the expert hotseat, to talk about how you protect a huge cash balance, avoid rushing into bad decisions, and turn a once-in-a-lifetime payout into a secure, comfortable retirement. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!Follow me everywhere!Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZInstagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknzTikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknzJoin the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribeThis podcast was filmed & produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana ByrneAudio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook #MoneyMindset #WealthManagement #RetirementPlanning #FinancialAdvisor #TermDeposit #Windfall #SuddenWealth #ScamAwareness

They say that the first $100,000 invested is the hardest milestone, but also most important. Once you’re there, compounding starts to do more of the heavy lifting. But getting there, well, you’ll have to scrap for it.Today’s guest, Jane Joo, reached that milestone by age 25.So how did she actually do it?This episode cuts through the noise to unpack what works in the real world.No trust fund, no extreme deprivation, and no finance degree. Just consistent habits, deliberate choices, and a clear goal.Jane shares how she started investing while still a university student, why she focused on small, regular contributions instead of waiting to feel “ready,” and how she balanced earning more with spending intentionally. We talk about avoiding lifestyle creep, negotiating fixed expenses, side hustles, and what is really took to build her first $100k.We also dig into her investing approach - from early stock picking to a growing preference for index funds - plus the mindset shifts that helped her stay consistent through market ups and downs.Follow me everywhere! Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz TikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribeThis podcast was filmed & produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana ByrneAudio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook #Investing #FinancialFreedom #CompoundInterest #IndexFunds #InvestingForBeginners #MoneyMindset #WealthBuilding #SideHustle #LifestyleCreep #SavingsHacks

An investment property to fund retirement is part of the Kiwi dream to many - but what if it’s not the smartest move?In this Ask the Experts mailbag episode, a listener in 50s asks, should we keep our rental property, or sell up and invest in index funds instead?So how do you compare property vs shares in real life?EnableMe head strategic coach Katie Wesney is in the expert hot seat, ready to help us break down:index funds vs property for retirement planningthe role of diversification, liquidity, and risk as you get closer to retirementwhether selling in a flat property market makes sensehow debt, tax structure, and cashflow strategy can change the picture entirelyIf you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

If you’ve ever put off investing because the sharemarket felt scary or “not for people like you,” this episode is your shortcut to getting past that.I’m sharing the five things I wish I knew before I started investing: the mindset shifts, the beginner mistakes, and the $5 habit that changed everything for my financial future.We’ll talk about why starting small is a superpower, why you don’t need to be an expert to invest, and how the sharemarket actually makes money (in plain English). You’ll also get the behind the scenes of my first big investing crash during COVID, and how that one moment taught me more than any book ever could.If you're a beginner investor, trying to understand index funds, nervous about market volatility, or stuck in analysis paralysis, this episode will help you build confidence, start investing sooner, and grow wealth over time, without the hype or jargon.You’ll learn:• Why shares aren’t “just for rich people”• How $5 a week can kickstart your investing journey• What to do when the market tanks• Why you don’t need to pick stocks to succeed• The two ways shares actually make moneyIf you want to learn more, my free Market Memo newsletter breaks down sharemarket investing each week in simple, practical steps. Sign up at francescook.co.nz/investLinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Saving $80,000 should feel like a major milestone. But when you’re trying to buy your first home, it can leave you asking a very real question: is this actually enough?In this Ask the Experts episode, a listener who’s fed up with renting wants to know whether they’re genuinely ready to buy, or about to take on more than they can afford.They’ve built a solid deposit, but recent spending has shaken their confidence, and now they’re stuck between waiting longer or jumping in too soon.So what does “ready” really look like for first-home buyers in New Zealand?Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz is ready to help us break down the hidden house buying costs people often forget to budget for, how much buffer you really need, and what to do if you slip while building toward a first home. There’s also deposit rules, borrowing options, and how to pressure-test your plan before you make one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz/)and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz?lang=en), or join the Money Memo newsletter (https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribe) for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Learning about money is one thing. Actually changing how you behave with it is something else entirely.In this special episode of Making Cents, I’m pulling together three powerful money psychology insights that genuinely changed how I handle my own money. It’s not just that they were clever tactics, but that they finally helped me put good intentions into action.Being “good with money” isn’t about deprivation or sitting on a pile of cash you’re scared to touch. It’s about deciding what kind of life you want, working backwards from there, and building money habits that actually fit how your brain works.You’ll hear highlights from three standout conversations with experts who reshaped how I think about fear, goals, habits, and motivation — and why so many of us keep doing things we know are holding us back.Claire Barnes, Ecoya CEO, on how the outside perspective of a coach helped her battle a fear of failure.James Blair, Lighthouse Financial financial advisor, on the gamechanger of values-based spending.And Dr Brad Klontz, psychologist and multiple times best-selling author, on the psychogical wiring that can hold us back, and how to change it.In this episode, we cover:– Why outside perspective (from a coach, adviser, or trusted third party) can unlock progress you’ll never see on your own– How fear, anxiety, and discomfort can be harnessed instead of fought, and used as fuel rather than friction– How values-based spending can stop money fights with your partner and make trade-offs feel intentional– Why knowing what to do with money is rarely the problem, and how your psychology sabotages you instead– How concepts like the hedonic treadmill and ancient “caveman brain” wiring shape modern money decisionsIf you’ve ever felt like you know what you should be doing with money, but still can’t seem to follow through, this episode is for you.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Fast Money with Jim Mora on Sunday Morning with RNZ. Talking the end of year GDP bounce, what a Santa Rally would tell us about 2026, how to control spending over the silly season, and the forecast for our Kiwisaver programme.Follow me everywhere!Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZInstagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknzTikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknzJoin the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribeAudio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook

Hitting the milestone of $1 million in the bank should feel like financial freedom, but for many people approaching retirement, it’s the moment where the fear kicks in.When a term deposit matures and you’re suddenly responsible for a seven-figure lump sum, the pressure to “not mess it up” can feel overwhelming.That’s exactly the situation in today’s Ask the Experts episode. Our listener is 59, single, mortgage-free, and ready to retire soon, but unsure what to do with the $1 million they’ve worked their whole life to save.EnableMe strategic coach Katie Wesney joins me to break it all down:how to invest a $1 million lump sum safelycash vs managed funds vs shares in retirementhow long a million dollars really lastshow to structure money into short-, medium-, and long-term “buckets”and why doing nothing can sometimes be the biggest risk of allIf you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

New Zealand banking just changed all the rules, and you could be forgiven for not having heard about it, despite the fact this could change everything about how you handle your money.Open banking is now officially live in New Zealand, slipping in right at the end of the year with very little attention. But this isn’t just a tech update. It’s a power shift over who controls your financial information, and how it can be used.That matters, because open banking has the potential to make huge parts of your money life easier. From budgeting and using a budgeting app, to comparing mortgage rates, switching banking products, and even making investing simpler.And frankly, we could all do with some help right now. There’s been growing criticism about whether the big banks in New Zealand are making it too hard, and too expensive, for customers to shop around and get a better deal. Open banking is designed to change that, by increasing competition and giving people more control over their own banking data.But it’s not all plain sailing.There are real questions around privacy, security, and how open banking will actually work in practice, especially in the early stages.So how do you make the most of this shift, to simplify your finances and improve your budgeting, without exposing yourself to unnecessary risks?In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook is joined by Jason Leong, CEO and co-founder of PocketSmith, to break down open banking in plain English. What’s changed, what it means for everyday people, and how to use it safely to feel more in control of your money.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

2025 was one of the strangest years in money we’ve seen for a long time. AI shot up so fast it started giving people Dotcom Bubble flashbacks. Bitcoin lost more than a trillion dollars in value almost overnight. KiwiSaver turned into an election promise. Interest rates dropped, but didn’t truly soothe the money pain. And a lot of New Zealanders quietly admitted they’ve given up on buying a home. So if your money felt a bit off this year, you weren’t imagining it. In this live edition of the Making Cents podcast, I’m joined by Stuff’s money editor Damien Venuto and AdviceFirst financial adviser Leon Leonardo to unpack why everything felt so unpredictable, and what actually matters for your KiwiSaver, mortgage, and investments as we head into 2026. We get into: • why AI looks a lot like the early 2000s tech boom • what triggered Bitcoin’s massive wipe-out • why KiwiSaver is suddenly political • the confidence crash in housing • the surprisingly good news with open banking • and how to take back control when the system gets weird If you want a clear, grounded look at what changed this year, and what to do about it, this one’s for you.

Nothing spikes the heart rate quite like seeing a headline claiming you need a million dollars to retire.This week’s Ask the Experts listener is 47, the kids are nearly out the door, and retirement planning in New Zealand has suddenly stopped feeling like a ‘one day’ problem.Which means the recent run of articles about retirement savings, retirement villages, or aged care costs are sending her straight into panic mode.She’s heard the horror stories, of complex retirement village contracts, huge upfront costs, expensive aged care facilities, and now she’s worried she’s already missed the boat. How much do you actually need to retire in NZ? Is a million dollars realistic? Should you be downsizing the family home once the kids leave, or is it too early to make that call?Will White from Heartland Bank joins the show, to strip away the scare headlines and focus on what really matters. What retirement costs most people forget to factor in, how lifestyle choices affect how much you need, and why being “behind” at 47 doesn’t mean you’re out of options.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Jenny-May Clarkson is one of the most recognisable faces in Aotearoa, from her years as a Silver Fern to fronting the TVNZ Breakfast couch every morning.She’s also living proof that starting over and reinventing your career is now incredibly common. And sometimes, incredibly public.After quite quickly leaving the TVNZ Breakfast team, Jenny-May is now facing the same reality so many Kiwis deal with: when a secure job disappears, what happens next?Because behind the lights and glamour, the truth is simple. People on screen rely on that pay cheque just as much as anyone else. And when the TVNZ cameras turn off, the bills don’t.In this episode, Jenny-May opens up about leaving TVNZ Breakfast, the burnout she didn’t see coming, the financial reality of walking away from a stable salary, and the fear of starting over at 51 with no guaranteed next step. She talks about losing confidence, rebuilding it, and why she believes reinvention is a skill anyone can learn, no matter when it happens in life.Because she’s also now looking to build something new, and create opportunities through self-employment.For anyone facing a crossroads, Jenny-May shares the mindset shifts and practical steps that helped her take control of her money, her career, and her identity again.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

A quick and dirty update of mortgage tricks to get rid of the debt faster. Including using the bank's money, instead of yours!Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about it, replayed here with permission. LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

Ever wondered whether those “mortgage-free in five years” hacks you see online are real, or just clever marketing?With so many mortgage “shortcuts” floating around social media, it’s hard to know what actually works, especially in New Zealand’s property market.In this Ask the Experts episode, we break down the truth behind mortgage-freedom shortcuts: the strategies that genuinely speed up your repayment timeline, the red flags to watch for, and the behavioural traps that can cost you thousands.Financial coach Shelley Palman from EnableMe has tricks from smart mortgage structures like offset and revolving credit, to how much extra principal you actually need to pay to shave years (and hundreds of thousands of dollars) off your loan.We cover:• which “mortgage-free fast” claims are legitimate• the tactics that work for ordinary Kiwi households• common mortgage mistakes that slow you down• how to avoid clickbait mortgage hacks• mindset strategies to stay motivated on a long payoff planIf you’re trying to pay off your mortgage faster, avoid bad mortgage advice, or understand how to structure your home loan for long-term financial freedom, this episode will give you the clarity you need.Don't forget, if you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

If you’ve ever wondered whether living in a tiny home can genuinely change your life, this is a story worth hearing. After nearly nine years in her tiny house, Kasia Morrison has rebuilt her entire life from the ground up - financially, personally, and professionally. Downsizing didn’t just cut her cost of living. It gave her the freedom to start over when everything else collapsed: her marriage, her business, and the future she thought she was building. But tiny-home living comes with financial fish hooks too, from higher-interest loans, to the reality that a tiny house doesn’t behave like a traditional property when it comes to long-term wealth. In this episode, we dig into how to make tiny-home life work in the real world: the strategy you need, the money plan that sits beneath it, and the mindset shifts that help you rebuild after a major life change. Kasia shares what surprised her about living tiny, how it changed her definition of success, and why she’s committed to this lifestyle for the long haul. Whether you’re dreaming about downsizing, craving more financial freedom, or standing at the bottom of your own “start again” moment, this conversation shows what’s possible when you strip life back to the essentials. To listen to the full, extended interview, listen to Making Cents on any podcast player, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow me everywhere! Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz TikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribe #makingcents #francescook #tinyhomedecor #tinyhouse #tinyhome #tinyhouseliving #SmallSpaceBigLife, #financialfreedom #downsizingjourney #tinyhousetour #spacesavingideas #tinyhomedesign This podcast was filmed & produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:18 – Tiny house strategy: lifestyle choice and financial plan 02:29 – Why tiny? 05:16 – Smart storage, loft beds & designing small spaces that work 06:29 – Tiny home stereotypes, minimalism myths and downsizing 09:14 – Financing a tiny home 15:47 – Using tiny living to start a small business 18:59 – Rebuilding from rock bottom 21:13 – New business & space-saving products 23:20 – Paid-off tiny home, independence and redefining success 28:01 – Tiny home tips 28:55 – Outro

If property prices are doing your head in and you’re starting to wonder whether buying a first home is even possible anymore, it’s time to figure out what’s actually happening.A listener from Wellington writes in to say they love their city, they want stability for their kids, but every time they look at the market, it feels completely out of reach.In this Ask the Experts episode, Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz helps me dig into what’s actually happening in the New Zealand property market right now, whether this is a good time to buy, and how to figure out if you’re personally ready to take the leap.We also break down how to research good suburbs, how to spot affordable pockets in an expensive city, and which property data actually matters when you’re trying to make a smart decision.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Plenty of us get angry about the money world being unfair. But few people get angry enough to actually change something.Sasha Lockley did.Sasha started Money Sweetspot because, in her own words, she was furious. Furious that so many ordinary New Zealanders were working hard, making tough decisions, and still drowning in debt.In this episode of Making Cents, we dig into the emotional and practical realities of debt in New Zealand.We talk about why people get trapped, what actually works to pay down loans faster, what doesn’t, and how shame, guilt, and overwhelm derail the plans you make.We also look beyond the individual level. Because while there are things we can control in our own financial lives, there are also parts of the debt system that need fixing, and Sasha has a front-row seat to what needs to change.In this episode we cover:- Why Sasha got angry enough to start Money Sweetspot- What she’s learned from thousands of real NZ debt stories- The loan traps catching ordinary Kiwis every day- The worst debt myths doing the rounds online- What actually works when you’re trying to pay off the credit card faster- Why shame and avoidance make debt worse, and how to break that cycle- Simple first steps if you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start- What needs to change at a system level to stop this happening to so many peopleIf you’ve ever felt stuck, ashamed, or overwhelmed by debt, this conversation will help you understand what’s really going on, and what you can realistically do next.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Become an investor with less stress, and no finance degree.Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about how to get out of your own way if you've been wanting to dip a toe into the sharemarket.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

If you’ve pushed money aside for years, only to wake up in your mid-40s with a toddler, a tiny KiwiSaver balance, and a creeping fear about what life looks like at 70… where do you even begin?That’s the heart of today’s Ask the Experts letter.A single mum at 46 is saving just a few dollars a week, working part-time, and terrified that she’s already run out of time to build any kind of financial safety.So what are the options when you’re starting late, starting small, or starting over?How much is “enough” for retirement?Does homeownership still make sense when you’re on the back foot?What can you realistically focus on when your capacity is limited by childcare, low income, and years of unstable work?And is it ever truly too late to turn things around?Shelley Palman from EnableMe is in the hot seat to map out the options, the trade-offs, and the first practical steps to take when you’re overwhelmed but determined.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

A simple $20 tweak can dramatically cut down the life of your mortgage, so now it’s time to talk about the strategy I used to shave eight years off mine. With just a small repayment, years disappeared. So here’s how, and why, it works. I’ve used my experience as a financial journalist to change my money, so get an inside look at my finances, then why extra repayments are so powerful in the early years of a home loan, how interest is actually structured, and the practical ways you can use that to get mortgage-free faster to make it work for you. Time to talk about the main mortgage repayment strategies available in New Zealand, and how to figure out which one works for your lifestyle and spending habits. Plus: how to automate extra payments, how to use falling interest rates to your advantage, why fortnightly repayments sneak in an extra payment each year, and when to throw windfalls at the loan for maximum impact. If you’re trying to get ahead on your mortgage without sacrificing your entire life to it, this episode gives you the simple tactics that make the biggest difference. Tune in for a realistic, NZ-specific breakdown of what actually works, and how small changes can save you years. Follow me everywhere! Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz TikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribe #makingcents #francescook #mortgagefree #mortgage #homeloan #financialfreedom #debtfreejourney #moneytips #moneymindset #mortgagetips #payoffdebt #firsthomebuyer This podcast was filmed & produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:55 – My “baby journalist” days 02:13 – A tiny $20 pay rise that changed everything 03:32 – How extra repayments triple the power of your money 05:56 – Why extra repayments are most powerful at the beginning 07:53 – Using compounding interest against your debt 08:41 – The truth behind “secret” mortgage payoff hacks 09:47 – Method 1: The $20 mindset 10:57 – Method 2: Offset and revolving credit explained 14:17 – Method 3: Switching from monthly to fortnightly payments 15:09 – Method 4: Keep repayments the same when rates drop 16:04 – Method 5: Throw bonuses, tax refunds and side hustle money at it 17:02 – Method 6: Automate extra payments so willpower doesn’t matter 19:02 – Outro

Cash funds, bonds, index funds, shares… what’s the difference, and how do you figure out which mix is right for you?If you want to invest but have felt confused by the options, this is the live session for you.In this live edition of the Making Cents podcast, Frances Cook is joined by some of New Zealand’s top investing experts to break down simple, smart sharemarket strategies to help you get your money ready for 2026.We cover:The real differences between cash funds, bonds, and sharesHow to figure out what type of investment suits your goalsWhat to look for (and avoid) when comparing fundsHow to see what’s actually inside your investmentsWhy fees matter more than you think, and how to check yoursIt’s everything you need to start investing with confidence, no spreadsheets, no jargon, just smart strategies that actually work.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

You’ve worked your whole life to pay off the mortgage. The house is finally yours. But somehow, the money worries haven’t gone away.In this Making Cents mailbag episode, a listener in their 70s writes in after becoming mortgage-free, yet still feeling anxious every time they spend a dollar.Living on the pension with little savings, they want to enjoy retirement but are scared of running out of money.Their children think a reverse mortgage could be the answer, but will unlocking home equity today destroy their inheritance tomorrow?Frances Cook talks to Will White, General Manager of Retail & Reverse Mortgages at Heartland Bank, about how modern reverse mortgages in New Zealand actually work, what protections exist, and how to decide whether using your home equity makes sense.They cover the emotional side too, including the guilt many retirees feel about spending their own money, and how to find balance between financial security and quality of life.If you’ve ever wondered how to free up cash in retirement, whether a reverse mortgage is safe, or how to enjoy your hard-earned home without risking the kids’ inheritance, this episode breaks it all down.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Supermarket total making your stomach drop? You’re not imagining it, food prices have become one of the biggest pain points of the cost-of-living crisis. In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook sits down with chef Alice Taylor, creator of the Cheap and Realistic Eats Cookbook (available at https://www.alicetayloreats.com) to talk about how to eat well without overspending. From $1.50 loaves of bread and 20 cent noodles, to clever ingredient swaps that make baking cheaper and better, Alice shares practical, tested ways to feed a family for less. She explains how to: - Build a staple pantry that cuts costs and waste - Use budget-friendly substitutes that actually work - Cook healthy, affordable meals that still feel special - Swap food guilt for pride and progress in the kitchen This is real-world advice for anyone trying to stretch a grocery budget without sacrificing flavour or enjoyment. Follow me everywhere! Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz TikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribe #makingcents #francescook #CostOfLivingCrisis #BudgetMeals #CheapEats #CheapRecipes #FamilyMeals #FoodHacks #SaveMoneyOnGroceries #StaplePantry #LunchboxIdeas #NZFoodPrices #RealisticCooking This podcast was filmed & produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Chapters 00:00 – The brutal supermarket tap: why food feels so expensive 01:36 – Designing affordable meals that still feel special 04:18 – Pantry staples that keep prices low 06:30 – Cooking with allergies without the expensive substitutes 11:37 – Time vs money: when to cook from scratch vs buy it 16:41 – Christmas, hosting and lowering expectations 18:01 – Can cheap food still be good for you? 21:30 – Cheap vs expensive: does pricier really taste better? 25:51 – Bulk-up tricks: bread in meatballs & cutting food waste 31:43 – Lunchbox treats on a budget & that viral lemon cake 33:16 – Food prices in NZ (and around the world) aren’t okay 39:17 – Don’t normalise the cost of living crisis 41:22 – Two big takeaways: staple pantry & dropping the pressure 42:48 – Outro

Create a savings buffer without that nagging feeling of deprivation. Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about the savings tips that help you build a better money life, without cutting everything fun. LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

A $100,000 gift should feel like freedom, so why does it come with so much pressure?In this Making Cents mailbag episode, a listener writes in after being gifted $100K from family.They’ve got a big mortgage, no savings, and a long wish-list that includes home repairs, maternity leave, and some breathing room in the budget.The question: how do you use a windfall like this without wasting it?Frances Cook talks to Katie Wesney, head strategic coach at EnableMe, about how to turn a one-off gift into long-term financial security.They unpack how to prioritise between paying down the mortgage, building an emergency fund, and improving your home, plus smart ways to use a revolving credit account to keep flexibility while cutting interest.If you’ve ever wondered what to do after receiving a cash gift, inheritance, or bonus, this episode will show you how to make every dollar count, avoid the “easy come, easy go” trap, and set yourself up for the future.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

One of the biggest tools you’ve got for creating change is already in your pocket - your KiwiSaver.It quietly funds companies, industries, and ideas every single day. And like it or not, where that money goes can be more powerful than voting or any $5 consumer boycott.The problem? Most of us have no idea what we’re actually investing in.Weapons investing is up 40 per cent. Fossil fuels are on the rise. And some of the world’s biggest corporations are still getting a slice of your retirement savings.In this episode, financial journalist Frances Cook talks to Barry Coates from Mindful Money about how to find out exactly where your KiwiSaver cash is going, and how to shift it somewhere better.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash ChittockIt’s easier than you think, it doesn’t hurt your returns, and it could be your most powerful vote yet.Because you really can get rich without selling your soul.

Fast Money with Jim Mora on Sunday Morning with RNZ. Does the 0.01% rule help us spend in a smarter way? And if you really hate maths, does the 24-hour rule, the cost per use rule, or the fun budget work better?LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

What if the smartest way to get into property investing isn’t a house at all?That’s the question in this week’s Making Cents mailbag, from a listener who wants to invest but feels locked out of the residential market.With house prices still sky-high in many areas, this listener asks if commercial property could be the secret path to becoming an investor, or if it’s just a riskier bet in disguise.Frances Cook talks to Vanessa Williams from http://Realestate.co.nz about what first-time investors need to know before diving into commercial property.They break down how the commercial property market compares to residential, what really drives returns and risk, and why things like tenant quality, lease length, and economic trends matter far more than location or school zones.This episode shows you how commercial property investing works in New Zealand, what it costs to get started, and whether it could actually be your next move.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

When Ecoya CEO Claire Barnes was 23, she lost $100,000 of her dad’s life insurance money on a failed business. The experience left her with a fear of failure so strong it followed her for nearly two decades, even as she rose to lead one of New Zealand’s most successful lifestyle brands.In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook talks to Claire about what it takes to rebuild after financial loss, how to turn failure into a learning curve, and why she now believes fear is proof you’re on the right path.Claire shares the hard-won lessons behind her career; from driving boxes of candles around the country, to running Ecoya, and now launching Bowie, an at-home microneedling and skincare startup she funded after selling her family home.This conversation covers:Overcoming the fear of failure in business and lifeRebuilding confidence after losing moneyInvesting in yourself and starting againEntrepreneurship and leadership in New ZealandTurning anxiety into action and using fear as motivationEven after a $100k setback, you can still build back stronger.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

If you're looking to earn more money on the side, here's the guide to doing it more successfully.Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to explain how to find a good side hustle, and do it without tanking your finances.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

On paper, today’s listener has it made. Two multimillion-dollar homes, no mortgage, and investments on the side.But with private-school fees, high living costs, and no full-time second income, the numbers don’t add up.Their savings are shrinking fast, and the stress is rising even faster.In this week’s Ask the Experts, Frances Cook and EnableMe’s head strategic coach Katie Wesney unpack what really causes wealth to feel fragile, even when you’re technically “doing well.”They dig into why cash flow, not just net worth, determines your financial stability, and how to fix a lifestyle that’s quietly burning through your safety net.From whether to sell shares or take out a mortgage again, to tough calls around private school fees and property priorities, this episode gets real about trade-offs, structure, and sustainability.If you’ve ever wondered how people with big assets still end up broke on paper, or you’re feeling the pinch of a high-cost lifestyle yourself, this one’s essential listening.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode!LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

You sent in a flood of money questions, and I’m ready to answer them all.In this Ask Me Anything episode, I’m going unfiltered to talk through the money decisions you’re most curious about, including:What my actual investment portfolio looks like (and why lazy wins)How to set up your bank accounts to kill money stressWhether to pay off debt, boost KiwiSaver, or start investing firstWhen to sell your shares, and when to hold your nerveHow to rebuild financially after hitting resetPlus, the truth about credit card rewards, lifestyle creep, and my own financial freedom numberPerfect for anyone juggling mortgages, investments, or just trying to make smarter everyday money moves.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

If you feel like you’re doing it tough, you’re far from alone. The New Zealand economy has been struggling, and regular New Zealanders are feeling the pinch. Business confidence is down, unemployment is up, and core cost-of-living measures such as food prices don’t look good. Interest rates are now falling, but house prices are staying flat. So is there hope for an economic comeback, or is there the possibility of a deeper crash? Time to bring in the experts, with Simplicity chief economist Shamubeel Eaqub, Interest.co.nz economics and politics reporter Dan Brunskill, and ANZ senior economist Miles Workman. They’re ready to break down what’s actually going on, and what you need to know to protect your money, and ride out the storm. We’ll debate: The Reserve Bank’s surprise OCR cut, and whether more is coming Whether NZ’s housing market is bouncing back or still heading down. The truth about job security and the real state of the labour market. The smartest money moves right now, for mortgages, savings, and KiwiSaver.

How much should you actually have in savings to feel safe? In this week’s Ask the Experts, it’s a listener letter from someone worried about layoffs and wondering whether they’ve saved enough - or maybe even too much. Heartland Bank’s Will White joins the show to unpack what a real emergency fund looks like in 2025. How many months of expenses should you really have tucked away? What happens if you over-save and leave too much cash sitting idle instead of investing it? And where’s the best place to keep your buffer; a high-interest account, term deposit, or offset mortgage? If you’ve ever paused your investing to “build up the savings” or felt unsure what enough really means, this episode will give you a clear, practical framework to find your financial safety zone. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] and you might feature on our next episode! Follow me everywhere! Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/FrancesCookNZ Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/francescooknz TikTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@francescooknz Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week https://www.francescook.co.nz/subscribe #makingcents #francescook #EmergencyFund #SavingsBuffer #JobSecurity #BudgetingTips #NZFinance #HighInterestSavings #TermDeposits #OffsetMortgage #RevolvingCredit #CreditCardDebt #Compounding #HeartlandBank This podcast was filmed & produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 01:01 - Can you save too much? 01:46 - How big should your buffer be? 03:55 - Budget reality: find the fat 05:08 - Debt vs saving—what first? 07:21 - Next steps 11:24 - Offset & revolving: pros & pitfalls 16:43 - Outro

What if financial freedom didn’t take a lifetime, but just 11 years?Ruth Henderson,also known as The Happy Saver, proves it’s possible.She’s never been on a huge salary, didn’t get an inheritance, and never flipped property.Instead, through smart saving, simple investing into the sharemarket, and relentless consistency, they built enough wealth to become work-optional in just over a decade.And Ruth’s ready to share exactly how they did it.In this episode, we cover:How to reach financial independence in New Zealand (without earning six figures)The power of tracking net worth and using KiwiSaver wiselyHow index funds and compounding growth create true passive incomeWhy “work optional” freedom is more achievable than most Kiwis thinkIf you’ve ever wondered how ordinary New Zealanders can retire early (or just get financially free, faster) this episode is your blueprint.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

Your bank balance might be looking rough, but don’t panic.Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to explain why it’s normal for your money to ebb and flow, why “perfect balance” is a myth, and how to stay on track through the messy seasons of life and money.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

New Zealand is in the middle of a $1 trillion inheritance wave, and most families are walking into it completely unprepared.As Baby Boomers move into their 70s and 80s, we’re experiencing the biggest intergenerational wealth transfer in the country’s history. But the money isn’t the problem, it’s the silence.In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Katie Wesney from EnableMe to break down the inheritance conversations Kiwis aren’t having, and the painful consequences when families avoid them.The truth is that most New Zealand families have no plan for what happens when assets are passed on.Whether the estate is large or small, failing to talk about money, wills, and expectations can lead to legal mess, financial loss, and long-term family rifts.We explore:Why inheritance is about more than money, it’s about love, fairness, and recognitionThe real-world emotional and financial fallout of poor estate planningWhy avoiding the hard conversations now can destroy relationships laterWhere families should start when they realise it’s time to talkIf you want to protect your family and your finances, this episode is your must-listen guide to having the inheritance conversation before it’s too late.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

What if the 9-5 is over?The idea of a steady job and one career path for life is becoming rarer, and maybe even unrealistic.In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook talks to Hannah Koumakis about what it actually looks like when you build a career across acting, business, content, and community, all at once.What happens when you abandon the “one job for life” model, and instead create opportunities in the new world of work, where you often need multiple streams of income to get ahead, and where your financial systems need to be even sharper to hold it all together?In this episode we talk about:How to build multiple income streams without chaosThe financial systems that make it all workWhy emotional resilience matters as much as budgetingThe tough times, and why she nearly gave it all upWhat the future of work really looks like for your bank accountLinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

The Reserve Bank has slashed the Official Cash Rate, so what does that mean for how bad the economy is, and what is coming next?Frances Cook talks to the TVNZ Breakfast team about what you need to know for your mortgage, your job, and the overall economy.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter.

A listener letter asks if you can really find an undervalued suburb, or is it all luck?Host Frances Cook is joined by Vanessa Williams from http://realestate.co.nz to unpack whether you can actually spot an up-and-coming suburb before it booms.Sure, one clever buy could mean your net worth booms, but how do you play that game to win?This episode digs into:How to use real estate data to compare suburbs and spot growth trendsWhat infrastructure, transport links, and buyer demand reveal about the next boom suburbWhy some “bargains” stay cheap, and how to tell the difference with ones that are about to soar in priceSmart, practical tips for first-home buyers chasing value in New Zealand’s housing marketIf you’ve ever wondered how to find the best suburb to buy your first home, or whether “undervalued areas” really exist anymore, this episode has your answers.Send in your own questions, by emailing [email protected] Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

We all like to think we’re making smart money decisions… but half the time it’s actually our unconscious brain calling the shots.The result? Accidental self-sabotage, money guilt, and financial myths that keep us stuck.In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook is joined by financial coach and commentator Amanda Morrall to bust the biggest money myths holding people back, and show how to break free.We dig into:Why money is 90% mindset and only 10% mechanicsHow consumerism tricks us into “filling a void” instead of fixing problemsThe common belief of “I’m just not a money person”, and why it’s falseSimple mindset shifts that unlock real financial progressHow to align your money with your values (without the guilt)If you’ve ever felt like you’re bad with money, this episode will help you spot the hidden stories running the show, and make small, lasting changes that actually move you forward.Hit play to learn how to stop sabotaging your finances, ditch the myths, and start building the money life you actually want.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.This podcast was filmed and produced by FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock

"Financial flashpoints" are the moments that can take over you subconscious, and quietly derail the best of money plans. They can push smart people, to make some bad choices. Frances Cook talks to the TVNZ Breakfast team about how to spot them, and stop them taking over. LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

Old vs new: Which property strategy builds more wealth?When you're deciding whether to buy a house or build one, you're not just choosing a home, you're making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.In this Ask the Experts episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Kirsty Healey from EnableMe to unpack the pros and cons of buying an existing home vs building new. And importantly, which option could help you build more long-term wealth.Whether you're a first-home buyer or property investor, the choice between old and new has serious financial implications. New builds often come with lower maintenance costs, better mortgage deals, and the potential for higher-quality construction. But they also carry risks like construction delays, budget blowouts, and developer red tape.On the flip side, buying an existing home is faster and feels more straightforward. But it can come with hidden costs, future-proofing challenges, and unexpected renovation bills.In this episode, we cover:How new builds can affect your mortgage rate and deposit requirementsThe most common building pitfalls, including budget and council issuesWhy existing homes aren't always the “safe” choiceWhich option could offer better long-term value growthHow to decide based on your personal timeline, risk tolerance, and financial goalsIf you're stuck between buying or building, this episode will help you weigh the real costs, risks, and rewards.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

What really happens when you burn everything down and start over in your late 30s?In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook shares the raw reality of leaving a high-profile media job, building a business from scratch, and creating financial freedom on her own terms.This episode dives into the money lessons, business mistakes, and mindset shifts that come with starting over later in life.From learning how to begin imperfectly, to setting boundaries, to turning financial security into life freedom, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to survive a major life reset.If you’ve ever thought about walking away from stability, changing your career, or creating something of your own, his will give you a real look at the struggles, the lessons, and the unexpected wins that come from starting again.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

Buying a house in New Zealand? Don’t get caught out by hidden costs.In this episode of Ask the Experts, we reveal the true cost of buying a home, beyond the sale price.From legal fees to building inspections or surprise repair bills, these are the extra expenses that can seriously derail your property plans if you’re not prepared.We break down the most common hidden costs that first home buyers overlook, how much they typically add up to, and smart ways to avoid nasty financial surprises.Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to your next one, this is essential listening to help you protect your deposit, manage your budget, and avoid costly mistakes.Tune in for a chat between Frances Cook and Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz, on:Legal fees and how to reduce themWhat building inspections actually costWhether you need to test for meth or asbestosRed flags in older homes that could cost you thousandsHow much extra cash to have on hand before going unconditionalBuying property is stressful enough, so don’t let hidden costs make it worse. Listen now so you can go into your next home purchase fully informed and confident.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

Think shares are too risky or too complicated? Think again. In this live webinar, Frances Cook is joined by Ruth Henderson from The Happy Saver, independent financial journalist and founder of The Bottom Line, Paul McBeth, and Dean Anderson, founder of investing platform Kernel. Together they’re going to break down how investing really works, without the jargon, hype, or Wall Street bros. You’ll learn: - Why the sharemarket isn’t gambling, but ownership in real businesses - How and why prices actually move - The difference between saving and investing, and why that gap matters - Why you don’t need thousands of dollars to get started, $5 is enough - How index funds make investing simple, diversified, and effective - The biggest mistakes beginners make (and how to avoid them) If you’ve ever wanted to invest but felt intimidated, this is the easiest way to understand the basics and build confidence. By the end, you’ll know how to take the first step toward growing wealth, on your terms.

Most of us don’t just make money mistakes, we repeat them.Why? Because our money beliefs and money psychology are quietly running the show.In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook dives into how financial self-sabotage happens, with guest Nick Alcock, a tax debt coach and chartered accountant who uses financial therapy techniques.From compulsive buying and gambling, to financial enabling, money avoidance, and even being too scared to ask for a pay rise, it’s all on the table.Nick explains how childhood money stories, financial flashpoints, and subconscious money beliefs shape the way we spend, save, and manage debt.He shares real client examples of people earning six figures but still trapped in tax debt, the common red flags like financial infidelity or compulsive shopping, and why shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset can change everything.Whether you’re struggling with overspending, stuck in fear of negotiating your salary, or trying to understand why you keep sabotaging your financial goals, this conversation will help you spot the patterns, and start building healthier money habits.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

Welcome to Ask the Experts, where each week we talk to people in the industry to get the inside word on what’s happening right now, and what that means for the tactics that you should use to make the most of your money.If you’re thinking about property investment, there’s one word that always comes up - leverage.It’s the strategy of using your home’s value to invest into something else, usually more property.When it works, it can supercharge your wealth.When it doesn’t? You’re putting your family home on the line.In this episode, we unpack how to use leverage the smart way, with financial strategist Katie Wesney from enableMe.We cover when it’s worth considering, the emotional and financial resilience you need, and how to avoid rookie mistakes that can cost you big.Whether you're already in the property game or just thinking about it, this one could save you serious money, and a lot of stress.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.

It’s a fantasy many of us share: what if you could retire early, walk away from your job forever, and live life on your own terms by the age of 30?Would it be all freedom and fun… or would the reality look very different?In this episode of Making Cents, I talk to Captain Fi, one of Australia’s most well-known FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) bloggers. He shares what it really takes to achieve financial independence at such a young age, and whether he would actually recommend it to others.Captain Fi started out as a pilot, a career that cost him over $300,000 in training. Determined to buy back his freedom, he focused on three strategies that define the FIRE movement:Earn as much as possible through a high-paying job and multiple side hustlesSpend as little as possible by keeping living costs low and avoiding lifestyle creepInvest everything left over into shares and growth assets to build wealth quicklyBy living on less than $40,000 a year, while sometimes saving up to 90% of his income, he was able to quit work in his early 30s.Today, Captain Fi lives on a hobby farm in Queensland with his wife and young daughter, raising bees, planting gardens, and building the family-focused life he always wanted. But his journey also included burnout, grief, and a surprising twist: after a short period of “retired life,” he realised it wasn’t fulfilling enough and pivoted into something new.In this conversation, we cover:How he built financial independence by 30The reality of early retirement versus the daydreamWhy he “un-FIRE’d” and bought a farmThe hidden challenges of extreme savings and burnoutHis advice for anyone chasing financial freedom todayIf you’ve ever wondered what early retirement really looks like, or how to use the FIRE movement to reshape your own career and lifestyle, this episode has the insights from someone who has lived it.LinksFollow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week.