Making Cents

Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about the ways to save money on daily life, and maybe even earn some extra cash, to get through the cost of living crunch.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/subscribeBecome a confident sharemarket investor by signing up to the Market Memo newsletter https://www.francescook.co.nz/invest

Losing a partner is devastating. Then on top of the grief, there’s paperwork, big life changes, and financial decisions that feel urgent and overwhelming.In this episode of Ask the Experts, we’re answering a listener question from a woman in her early 50s who recently lost her husband. They had just finished putting their kids through school and were about to ramp up retirement savings. Instead, she’s now navigating life solo, with a $500,000 lump sum from a payout and the sale of the family home.Will White from Heartland Bank is in the Expert hot seat, ready to talk through:Where to start when you’re grieving and facing big financial decisionsKiwiSaver vs managed funds – the pros, cons, and access rulesHow to think about timeframes when retirement is 10–15 years awayBuilding a safety buffer before you investRisk tolerance, and how grief and life changes can affect how much volatility you can handleIf you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] (mailto:[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 #MakingCentsPodcast #Investing #MoneyPodcast #FinancialFreedomChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:00:56 The letter: navigating grief and sudden financial responsibility00:01:50 Don't rush: give yourself time to grieve and think clearly00:02:28 Diversification matters: don't put all your eggs in one basket00:05:30 Short, medium, and long-term priorities: working backwards from retirement00:07:41 Investing in your 50s: you can't afford too many market shocks00:08:36 Get a financial advisor: half a million dollars deserves professional advice00:09:24 Emotional safeguards: when are you ready to make big decisions?00:12:09 Invest in your mental well-being too: grief counseling is just as important00:13:39 Wrapping up: take your time and lean on support

When you’re working hard, ticking the boxes, doing everything “right”, yet still not getting the promotion or pay rise? It’s easy to feel stuck.You’re not imagining it.New Zealand’s job market has cooled. Job listings are down. Businesses are cautious. Pay rises are harder to secure. Career progression can feel slower.But when things get tight, that’s when strategy matters the most.Enter Jarrod Haar, Professor of Management and Māori Business at Massey University, to tell us what actually works when you want to earn more, get promoted, or completely reinvent your career.If you’ve been wondering:“How do I get a pay rise in this economy?”“Is it time to change jobs?”“Do I need more qualifications to earn more money?”“How can I reinvent my career without starting over?”This episode is for you.This episode of Making Cents is proudly supported by Odoo. Go to https://www.odoo.com/r/hpl now and try it for free, for 15 days.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 #MakingCentsPodcast #InvestingPodcast #MoneyPodcast #FinancialFreedomChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:35 Meet Jarrod: Professor of Management on the state of burnout00:06:13 The post-COVID hangover: why the job market feels so tough right now00:07:44 Start with what you can control: upskilling and staying relevant00:09:40 Social capital: why being a nice person actually pays off00:19:17 Should you stay or should you go? Voting with your feet00:21:51 The power of saying yes: building skills through work experience00:24:35 The skills that matter across industries: human connection over credentials00:29:22 Future-proofing your career: keep your finger on the pulse00:34:07 Wrapping up: hustle smarter, not just harder

A small change to a payment strategy can save hundreds of thousands of dollars and years of repayment time from your mortgage, cutting one of the biggest expenses most people will face.A replay of Frances Cook's column for Stuff.co.nz, read here with permission. 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/subscribeBecome a confident sharemarket investor by signing up to the Market Memo newsletter https://www.francescook.co.nz/invest#MakingCents #FrancesCook #MakingCentsPodcast #InvestingPodcast #MoneyPodcast #FinancialFreedom

What do you do when you’re stuck between two bad options?Sell a home you bought near the peak of the market, even though it’s now worth hundreds of thousands less, or stay put in a house that no longer fits your life?That’s the dilemma facing this week’s listener. They bought in late 2020, welcomed kids, watched their house value fall by around $250,000, and now feel trapped: too much mortgage pressure, not enough flexibility, and no clear “right” move.Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz is in the expert hot seat, to tell us about the shocking number of New Zealanders in this situation, and what they can do about it.We talk about:What selling in a down housing market really means for your moneyWhether holding on longer could help, or just prolong the stressHow life changes (kids, cashflow, burnout) should factor into property decisionsWhy feeling “stuck” is common, and how a clear plan can restore controlIf you’re weighing up sell or stay, worried about selling your house at a loss, or feeling trapped by a house that no longer works for your family or finances, this episode has the tactics you need to be thinking about.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] (mailto:[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 #NZProperty #WellingtonRealEstate #NZHousingMarket #HousePrices #NegativeEquity #LowEquity #SellOrStay #propertyadviceChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:01:12 Listener letter: bought at the peak, now stuck00:03:43 How common is this situation?00:07:47 First steps: get a realistic valuation00:08:33 Talk to a mortgage advisor or financial advisor00:09:15 Could you wait it out? Considering 202600:09:57 Creative options: students, Airbnb, and short-term solutions00:11:49 What if you've lost your deposit?00:13:33 The power of having a plan00:15:05 Outro

For decades in New Zealand, property wasn’t just an investment, it was THE investment.The safest bet. The biggest capital gains. Often tax-advantaged. And for many households, the clearest path to building long-term wealth.But that narrative is starting to shift.House prices remain high. Debt is expensive. And a growing number of New Zealanders are questioning whether residential property is still the best way to build wealth.In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook speaks with BusinessDesk journalist Dileepa Fonseka about New Zealand’s housing market, property prices, and long-term investment trends.Together, they explore whether New Zealand’s decades-long property obsession is beginning to crack.Why has property been such a dominant wealth-builder in NZ for so long?Are we reaching a ceiling on house price growth?Is this just a market cycle, or a structural turning point?If you’ve ever wondered whether buying property is still the smartest investment strategy, or whether it’s time to rethink the traditional path to wealth, this conversation will challenge your assumptions.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 Chapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:38 Meet Dileepa Fonseka: tracking the winds of change in property00:03:12 The land myth: why property prices can't rise forever00:05:50 The COVID property mania and the crash that followed00:17:10 Is there a ceiling on house prices?00:06:48 The political shift: capital gains tax enters the conversation00:10:17 From share market skeptics to everyday investors00:23:35 The rise of accessible investing: apps, Kiwisaver, and the new generation00:26:04 Property's hidden costs: climate change, insurance, and rising rates00:28:13 Election year battlegrounds: where is money going next?00:31:36 Outro 

In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about the growing "resist and unsubscribe" movement, how everyday New Zealanders can use their wallets to make a statement, and why your KiwiSaver might be one of the biggest votes you'll ever cast.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/subscribeBecome a confident sharemarket investor by signing up to the Market Memo newsletter https://www.francescook.co.nz/invest

What if you genuinely can’t earn more? Are you stuck financially?In this Ask the Experts mailbag episode of Making Cents, we tackle a question that so many teachers, nurses, and public sector workers quietly wrestle with: what do you do when your income is capped?Today’s letter writer is a teacher. She’s hearing the usual advice, to “earn more”, “start a side hustle”, “increase your income”, but her reality is strict salary bands, long hours, and family commitments.So if climbing the income ladder isn’t straightforward, what’s the next best move?In the hot seat is Kristin Sutherland, financial advisor at EnableMe, and we break this down properly:– Are you really “stuck” in a capped-income career, or is there more wiggle room than it feels like?– If a pay rise isn’t coming anytime soon, what should you focus on instead? Investing, spending strategy, debt reduction, or something else?– Does investing still make sense when your income is flat?– How to think strategically about promotions, specialisation, or changing employers– Whether side hustles are worth it (and how to avoid burnout)– Navigating relationship dynamics when one partner is aggressively pursuing higher income and the other offers stabilityListen now to learn how to move forward — even when your income doesn’t.If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] (mailto:[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

If you want the truth about retiring early as a regular person, it doesn’t come from highlight reels or motivational posts. It comes from the numbers.When you strip away the vibes, hacks, and hot takes, the numbers show what actually works, what doesn’t, and how real people build passive income that gives them real choice over their time.That’s where Bronwyn Candish comes in.Bronwyn is a chartered accountant who specialises in working with everyday people who want to retire early. It’s not the theory of it, but the messy, real-life version. By digging into people’s finances, she sees the patterns others miss: the spending leaks, the mindset traps, and the systems that move the needle over time.In this episode, Bronwyn shares what she’s seen behind the scenes, including the common mistakes that hold people back, the simple tactics that actually stick, and why automation beats motivation every time.She’s not just advising from the sidelines either. Bronwyn is building her own retire-early plan, using the same investing strategies, income levers, and intentional spending choices she recommends to her clients.This is a grounded, honest look at how normal people really make progress, from passive income through shares, to optimising KiwiSaver, to getting your partner on the same page, and using community as a secret weapon.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 #FinancialIndependence #FIREmovement #PassiveInvesting #PassiveIncome #FIRE #RetireEarly #RetirementChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:32 Meet Bronwyn: the accountant for people pursuing financial independence00:05:14 Bronwyn's financial independence journey: divorce, debt, and discovery00:07:23 COVID, parenthood, and purchasing a practice00:09:10 Who Bronwyn works with: from lazy balance sheets to FIRE enthusiasts00:13:00 Is financial independence accessible for normal people?00:14:43 Best tactics for regular people: business as a bank account and expense awareness00:15:45 The power of increasing income and self-employment00:18:48 Black Friday: building community and brainwashing partners00:27:23 Bronwyn's personal tactics: index funds, automation, and intentional spending00:30:00 Mindset shifts: from deprivation to appreciation00:33:45 The debt-free journey and the power of teamwork00:35:50 Advice for skeptics and where to find Bronwyn

Money fights aren’t really about money. They’re about expectations, and how differently we respond to them.In this episode of Making Cents, I’m breaking down the four money personalities that shape how you save, spend, budget, and argue about money. Get ready to finally understand why financial advice works brilliantly for some people and completely falls apart for others.Based on Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies framework, these personalities explain why:You can know what to do with your money… and still not do itYour partner’s approach makes perfect sense to them, but drives you madDiscipline isn’t the issue, but mismatched systems are.You’ll learn how the Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel money personalities actually behave with money, where each one thrives, where it goes wrong, and what strategies genuinely work for each type.We also dig into how different money personalities clash (and connect) in relationships. Why money is such a common source of tension, and how to design shared systems that don’t leave one person feeling controlled, rushed, unsupported, or sabotaged.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 #moneypersonality #moneymindset #financialpsychology #financialfreedom #FourTendencies #Upholder #Questioner #Obliger #Rebel Chapters00:00:00 Introduction00:03:11 The upholder: the goody two shoes who follow all the rules00:05:58 The questioner: research everything, customize everything00:10:54 The obliger: brilliant for others, terrible at prioritizing themselves00:13:51 The rebel: identity over obligations00:17:33 Why most money advice is written for upholders00:18:27 Money personalities in relationships: why couples fight about expectations00:20:49 Wrapping up: stop fighting yourself and design systems that fit00:21:08 Outro

From the real risks behind AI hype and whether we're heading for a crash, to the surprising weakness hiding inside Big Tech's profits, and why digital advertising might be the canary in the coal mine that nobody's watching… it’s time to make sense of the chaos.Fast Money with Jim Mora on RNZ’s Sunday Mornings, it’s time for the money update you need.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/subscribe, or Audio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook #ShareMarket #MarketVolatility #Bitcoin #Gold #Silver #AI #BigTech #Investing #NZEconomy #PropertyInvesting #MarketCorrection

There is a lot of mortgage advice out there that is confidently wrong.And the cost of following it isn’t just money, it’s time. Sometimes years of your life spent under pressure you didn’t actually need.In this episode of Making Cents, we’re cutting through the biggest mortgage myths that trip people up both before they buy a home and long after they’ve signed the papers.From “cleaning up” bank statements and chasing the lowest interest rate, to misunderstood rules around deposits, credit scores, extra repayments, and offsets, this is the stuff that sounds smart on paper, but can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars over time.Mortgage Man Aaron Cattell is a mortgage adviser on the front lines, working with real borrowers, real numbers, and real lending rules, and he’s ready to let you peek behind the curtain.We break down:What banks actually care about when approving a mortgage (and what they don’t)Common mortgage-ready myths that no longer apply in New ZealandWhy loan structure matters more than chasing the cheapest interest rateThe simplest ways to cut years off your mortgage, without needing a windfallWhen extra repayments, lump sums, offsets, or revolving credit actually make senseThe tactics that sound clever, but Aaron would ban tomorrowIf you’re buying your first home, refixing soon, or just want more control over the biggest debt most people will ever take on, this episode will help you avoid mistakes that quietly steal time from your future.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 ChittockAaron’s references mentioned in the episode: - https://www.themortgageman.co.nz/links#MakingCents #FrancesCookChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:37 Meet Aaron Kital: the mortgage man on the front lines00:04:00 Busting the deposit myth: you don't need 20 percent00:05:30 The clean bank statements myth and what banks actually care about00:09:25 Auctions, valuations, and the first-time buyer obstacle course00:12:40 Is buying your own home actually a good investment?00:15:00 Myths from overseas: credit scores and payment frequency00:19:03 Should you pay off your mortgage early or invest elsewhere?00:23:48 Three ways to smash your mortgage faster00:26:06 Offset accounts and revolving credits: when they work and when they don't00:34:42 Fixed versus floating: why structure beats interest rates every time00:41:24 When mortgages keep you awake at night: hardship options00:43:43 The easy win: one simple change that saves years00:44:14 Outro

If you're feeling the February slump and wondering how to get back on track without starting from scratch, this one's for you!A replay of Frances Cook's column for 1 News, read here with permission, on 7 science-backed ways to get your money back under control.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/subscribe or level up your investing knowledge with the Market Memo newsletter https://www.francescook.co.nz/investAudio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook

This episode was originally part of the Market Memo newsletter, where you learn about sharemarket investing every week. You can subscribe to that, here https://marketmemoweekly.substack.com/It’s never been easier to start investing. And that’s both brilliant, and part of the problem.Between constant headlines, market swings, hot takes on social media, and apps that let you trade with a swipe, investing has turned into a psychological minefield.Now, for most people, the biggest risk to their money isn’t the market. It’s their own brain.In this episode of Making Cents, it’s the seven common mental traps that trip investors up.We’ll cover:Why losses hurt so much more than gains (and what that makes people do)How herd behaviour and FOMO sneak into otherwise sensible decisionsWhy sticking to what feels familiar can cost you real growthThe mental shortcuts that make short-term noise feel more important than long-term plansAnd the simple systems that help emotions stop driving the carThis episode isn’t about suppressing your feelings or becoming some emotionless investing robot.It’s about understanding how your brain works, and putting smart guardrails in place so it doesn’t sabotage your future.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 #InvestingPsychology #BehaviouralFinance #MoneyPsychology #InvestorMindset #MentalTraps #InvestingChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:18 Loss aversion: the pain hits harder than the pleasure00:03:31 Overconfidence bias: the 'I can time the market' illusion00:05:21 Herd behavior and FOMO: when everyone's buying, beware00:07:13 Home bias: comfort can cost you00:08:31 Confirmation bias: the echo chamber effect00:09:39 Recency bias: thinking yesterday predicts tomorrow00:10:48 Present bias: the 'now' trap00:12:19 Wrapping up: stop emotions from driving the car00:13:00 Outro

If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually going on behind the scenes of the 1%, beyond the headlines, Instagram posts, and glossy business profiles, this episode pulls back the curtain.Because beneath the public image of wealth is usually a highly deliberate money strategy. And it doesn’t have to be exclusive to the ultra-rich.In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook speaks with Andrew Clements, a private wealth and succession lawyer who works with some of New Zealand’s wealthiest families. Andrew spends his days helping high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients build wealth, protect it, and stop it being blown up by one bad decision, whether that’s an investment mistake, poor structure, or family conflict.What he’s learned may surprise you.We talk about:How wealthy families think in decades, not yearsWhy protecting money often matters more than chasing returnsThe “guardrails” the wealthy put around their money, and their familiesWhy the rich often sell when others are rushing inThe risks that don’t show up on balance sheets, including family and succession riskHow downturns are treated as opportunity, not panicAnd which wealth strategies are realistic for everyday NZers to copyFollow 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 #GenerationalWealth #WealthBuilding #WealthManagement #FinancialLiteracy #SuccessionPlanning #ImpactInvesting #FinancialAdviser #PrivateWealth #HighNetWorth #NZBusinessOwnersChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:13 Meet Andrew Clements: private wealth and succession lawyer00:03:39 Money talks, but wealth whispers00:04:25 Values over dollars: what wealthy families actually prioritize00:08:19 The long game: how the wealthy build and protect assets00:09:44 The Lithuanian entrepreneur who didn't get greedy00:12:38 Investing in yourself: the best investment you can make00:18:43 Philosophy breeds methodology: finding advisors who understand you00:22:12 How the wealthy invest differently: shares over property00:27:24 Impact investing: making money and making a difference00:29:22 Family risk: how inheritance can become poison00:33:16 Beating the three-generation curse00:37:20 The hundred dollar note on the dinner table00:42:13 Can average people become wealthy? Yes, here's how00:44:39 Outro

Everyone says you should start investing in the stock market, but how do you actually do that? Time for a quick roadmap to get you started. Whether you’re starting from scratch, or you’ve been investing for a while but you’re not sure you’re nailing it, this is the live session to help you feel like the confident investor you should be. With top industry experts -Kernel chief executive Dean Anderson-Stuff money editor Damian Venuto-Massey University Professor Claire MatthewsAs we answer questions live, we’re talking about what actually matters when investing in shares in 2026, how to get started without overthinking it, building a system that lets you keep investing no matter what, and getting under the hood of what’s happening in the sharemarket right now. 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/subscribeVideo editing & content production by Lana ByrneAudio engineering by Tash Chittock#MakingCents #FrancesCook

Are home renovations actually an investment, or just an expensive way to make your house nicer to live in?In this Ask the Experts mailbag episode, it’s time to answer the question many are scared of: have I overcapitalised my home?Which renovations genuinely add value, and which ones don’t?Is your own home an investment, or a lifestyle choice?And if you’ve already spent the money, should you even consider an investment property?To break it all down, I’m joined by Vanessa Williams from http://realestate.co.nz who brings the data on what actually moves house prices in New Zealand: from extra bedrooms and bathrooms, to the renovation traps that don’t stack up financially.We cover:– When renovations can increase resale value, and when they won’t– The real difference between lifestyle upgrades and wealth-building moves– How to tell if you’ve overcapitalised (and what to do if you have)– Whether using home equity to invest in property is still an option– How to think about your home versus a true investment propertyIf you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] (mailto:[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 #NewZealandProperty #PropertyMarket #PropertyInvestment #HomeRenovation #RenovationROI #Overcapitalising #HomeEquity #InvestmentProperty #FirstHomeBuyer #DIYRenovation #PropertyValuationChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:01:14 Listener letter: renovated but worried about overcapitalizing00:02:18 What renovations actually add value vs lifestyle upgrades00:03:30 The data: how much value each bedroom adds00:05:28 Kitchens and decks: investment or lifestyle choice?00:06:46 How to know if you've overcapitalised00:08:48 Is your home an investment? The debate00:12:25 Using home equity to buy an investment property00:14:57 Next steps: gathering information and exploring options00:17:28 Outro

Quick-fire tips and tricks for feeling more in control of your money in 2026.Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about it, replayed here with permission.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/subscribe Become a confident sharemarket investor by signing up to the Market Memo newsletter https://www.francescook.co.nz/invest

Gold and silver prices are booming, and it’s being driven by something deeper: how people are feeling about their money.When trust starts to break down, investors don’t just talk about it, they move their money.Darcy Ungaro, a financial adviser and host of the NZ Everyday Investor, is seeing more New Zealanders actively asking about gold, silver, Bitcoin, and other alternatives. It’s not out of greed, but out of caution.In this episode we talk about:Why gold and silver prices are risingWhether silver is a good investment, or just dangerously volatileThe real risks behind the silver price surge (and why it can “rip your face off” if you get it wrong)Gold vs silver: how they behave differently in uncertain marketsHow to invest in gold and silver ETFs in NZ, versus holding physical metalHow to think about allocation, not hype, when markets feel unstableIf you’ve been wondering whether gold or silver belongs in your portfolio - or why so many people are suddenly asking the question - this episode will help you make sense of it.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 #Silver #Gold #Bitcoin #AlternativeInvestments #PreciousMetals #InvestmentChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:09 Meet Darcy Ungaro: financial adviser and everyday investor00:04:04 The rise in precious metals: what's driving it?00:15:02 Gold and silver during global instability00:17:05 Silver: the volatile cousin of gold00:27:14 Darcy's biggest mistake: trading silver with 50X leverage00:30:15 Gold vs silver: similarities and differences00:33:49 Bitcoin as digital gold: does the comparison hold up?00:41:54 How to allocate: the 80/20 portfolio approach00:48:03 Where to start: getting into gold and silver without losing your face00:51:10 Outro

Opposites attract, until it comes to money.This week’s listener says she’s a saver, her partner is a spender, and every attempt to “get serious” about their finances ends the same way: frustration, guilt, splurging out of spite, and a plan that falls apart by March.Instead of moving forward, they’re cancelling each other out, and it’s starting to wear them both down.In this Ask the Experts episode, EnableMe head strategic coach Katie Wesney breaks down why saver–spender dynamics are so common, and why money fights are usually about values, security, and behaviour, not just dollars.We talk about:Why saver–spender couples clash, even when they want the same lifeHow different money personalities (savers, spenders, upholders, questioners, rebels) approach rules, goals, and plansWhy behaviour matters more than the “perfect” financial strategyHow starting with a shared vision changes the conversationPractical systems that reduce friction, including automation and separate “no-questions-asked” spendingHow couples can use their differences as strengths instead of sabotageIf you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to [email protected] (mailto:[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 #SaverVsSpender #CouplesAndMoney #MoneyInRelationships #MoneyPersonalities #MoneyMindset #BudgetingAsACouple #JointAccounts #FinancialAccountability #MortgageTips #PayOffMortgageFaster #FinancialFreedomChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:01:09 Listener letter: opposite money styles00:01:48 "Money fights aren’t about money” (trust, values, security)00:03:14 How to start the conversation: vision, numbers, timeframes00:04:24 Money personality types: saver / shopper / plodder00:05:34 Gretchen Rubin tendencies: upholder, obliger, questioner, rebel00:11:08 Saver vs shopper00:13:24 Systems for couples: joint vs separate money + autonomy00:15:58 Where to from here?00:16:19 Outro 

Why do so many smart, motivated people struggle to stick to money goals?You set the intention to save more, invest properly, or finally get organised, and then, a few weeks or months later, it falls apart.It’s not that you don’t care or don’t know what to do. It’s that your mindset and financial habits get in the way.In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Dom Vettise, a clinical and performance psychologist who specialises in helping people move from “pretty good” to world-class performance.Dom has worked in some of the most high-pressure environments imaginable, including with Olympic athletes, New Zealand Rugby, and the All Whites. These people who simply have to perform when the stakes are highest.What’s surprising is how directly that same psychology applies to everyday money decisions.The mental habits that determine whether an athlete performs under pressure are the same ones that shape your financial habits, from sticking to a savings plan, to following an investment strategy, to breaking the cycle of “I’ll start again next month.”In this conversation, we unpack:Why mindset matters more than motivation when it comes to moneyHow stress and pressure sabotage financial decision-makingThe role of perfectionism in derailing progressWhy self-sabotage shows up just as you’re starting to do wellPractical ways to take control of your mental habits so your money goals actually stickFollow 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 #Investing #SavingMoney #GoalSetting #Mindset #HighPerformance #SportsPsychology #PerformancePsychology #NewZealand #OlympicsChapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:12 Meet Dom Vittice: from forensics to Olympic psychology00:03:20 What it's really like working with elite athletes00:07:26 Success leaves clues: learning from what goes right00:11:29 The framework: understand me, be me, stay me00:13:32 Reframing pressure: distress vs eustress00:16:44 Breathwork and staying present under pressure00:22:45 Mental filtering and disqualifying the positive00:24:09 Staying motivated on long-term goals00:28:54 The MILK reflection tool: memory, improvement, learning, courage00:31:22 Courage requires fear: normalizing the hard stuff00:40:56 Radical self-responsibility without self-blame00:43:57 Self-compassion vs self-criticism in setbacks00:45:40 ACT framework: acknowledge, calm, towards00:47:44 The number one skill: attention00:50:06 Perfectionism and good enough00:52:28 Outro

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