Hairlines, finance, and tough choices — is a hair transplant really worth it? In this episode, James shares his personal journey through getting a hair transplant, what it cost, why he did it, and how big-ticket spending like this fits into your long-term financial plan without derailing your future goals. Want to learn more? Check out these episodes below: How To Build Your Emergency Fund Fast Step By Step Guide: How Financial Advisers Budget Their Money For more money tips follow us on: ...
May 01, 2025•18 min
Think you're all set for retirement? Think again. In this episode, Jess and Makayla break down why New Zealand Super and KiwiSaver might not cut it, and use real numbers to show the true cost of living comfortably in retirement—plus the serious financial gap many Kiwis are facing. Next Steps : Not sure if your KiwiSaver and retirement plan will get you across the finish line? Book a free chat with a Lighthouse Financial advisor and get a clear, tailored strategy for your future. For more money t...
Apr 29, 2025•23 min
Compounding interest is your secret weapon to long-term wealth—if you know how to use it. In this episode, we sit down with Luke Kemeys from Keep the Change to unpack the power of compounding returns, when to invest versus pay down debt, the psychology behind delayed gratification, and how consistent action—financial or otherwise—can lead to exponential outcomes over time. Learn more about Luke here: Keep The Change Next Advisory Next Steps: Ready to invest smarter and build a financial plan ...
Apr 27, 2025•32 min
Start the new financial year on the front foot by getting your tax setup sorted early. Amanda Quill, Accounting Director at Lighthouse, joins us to share 10 smart tax moves every business owner and property investor should know—from setting up the right bank accounts and claiming deductions to managing GST and planning ahead for provisional tax Next Steps: Unsure about your tax setup? Chat with Lighthouse Accounting to stay compliant, maximise deductions, and kick off the financial year with con...
Apr 24, 2025•17 min
Trump’s tariffs are making waves — but are they hitting the New Zealand property market? In this episode, we unpack how global economic uncertainty and the risk of recession are putting pressure on house prices, tightening credit markets, and driving interest rates down. Whether you're a homeowner, investor, or buyer, we break down what it all means for your next move.Next steps: All this talk of tariffs and uncertainty might have you feeling a little nervous. Well, Lighthouse Mortgages is here ...
Apr 22, 2025•10 min
Boomers blame brunch, Gen Z blame broken systems — but who really had it tougher trying to buy a home in New Zealand? In this episode, we compare house prices, income ratios, mortgage costs, and the rising cost of living across generations to settle the great housing debate once and for all. Next Steps: Feel like the odds are stacked against you? Chat to the team at Lighthouse Financial for smarter mortgage advice and a plan to get ahead in today’s market. For more money tips follow us on: ...
Apr 20, 2025•15 min
Rents are falling and properties are sitting empty —what’s going on? In this episode, we break down why rental prices are dropping across New Zealand, what's driving the surge in vacancies, and what it means for renters, landlords, and the housing market. What we cover: -Why supply has surged and demand has slowed-The impact of migration, unemployment, and interest rates-What falling rents mean for investors and rental yields-Tips for renters to negotiate and save money Next Steps: Need expert g...
Apr 17, 2025•12 min
Luke Kemeys is building serious wealth - without a mortgage, without the pressure, and 100% on his own terms. In this episode, we’re joined by Luke Kemeys from Keep The Change and Next Advisory to break down the financial plan that’s helped him save 40% of his income, deploy $700K across different investments, and avoid the pressure of homeownership. Learn more about Luke here: Keep The Change Next Advisory Next Steps: Want help creating a financial plan that actually fits your lifestyle and goa...
Apr 15, 2025•31 min
Subscription theft is costing Kiwis hundreds — and most don’t even realise it. Jess and Makayla break down how sneaky subscription traps are draining your bank account, why Paddy Gower is calling for government action, the worst offending companies (yes, we’re naming names), and what you can do to cancel, track and take back control of your spending. Next Steps: Need help reviewing your spending? The team at Lighthouse are holistic financial advisors who can help you take control of your budget ...
Apr 13, 2025•17 min
Selling your home in 2025? The game has changed — and buyers are playing smarter than ever. In this episode, we sat down with Alex Martelli from Martelli & Co Buyers Agents to unpack what sellers need to know — from buyer psychology and auction tactics to the legal details that can make or break your sale. Next Steps: Need expert guidance on structuring your lending strategy and getting the right finance in place? Lighthouse Mortgages can help you secure the funding you need to achieve your ...
Apr 10, 2025•38 min
Markets are tanking and Trump’s back with tariffs — but should Kiwis be panicking? In this episode, we break down what’s really causing the global market dip, how tariffs are affecting everything from inflation to business confidence, and what smart Kiwi investors should be doing right now — whether you're buying, selling, or just riding it out. What we cover: Why Trump’s new tariffs are shaking global markets The impact on Kiwi investors What a balanced investment portfolio looks like in volati...
Apr 09, 2025•18 min
Adrian Orr steps down and Trump’s tariffs step up—this week, global finance is in flux and Kiwis are wondering what comes next. We break down what the Reserve Bank’s next move means for borrowers, how Trump’s tariffs are shaking the global economy, and what Orr’s exit signals for the future of monetary policy in New Zealand. Next Steps: Need help navigating rate changes? Talk to the team at Lighthouse Mortgages —no guesswork, no stress, just the right loan with the right structure at the right p...
Apr 06, 2025•14 min
Selling, Renting, or Holding — What’s the Smart Move? We answer a listener question about whether to rent, sell, or hold when relocating across the country. We break down the pros and cons of each option, how to handle your house sale profits, and why timing and market differences between cities like Wellington and Christchurch really matter. Next Steps: If you’re moving cities and unsure whether to sell, buy, or rent, get in touch with Lighthouse Mortgages for expert advice tailored to your sit...
Apr 03, 2025•9 min
We spotlight the best bits from our deep dive into Iyia Liu’s financial planning journey. From managing unpredictable income to navigating the challenges of self-employed lending, Iyia shares practical lessons on building wealth and working toward financial freedom. Key Topics Covered: Creating a financial plan as a self-employed business owner Managing lumpy income and irregular cash flow Challenges of getting lending when self-employed Setting goals for financial freedom The importance of will...
Apr 01, 2025•14 min
Buying a house solo can feel impossible—could teaming up be the answer? As housing affordability becomes more challenging, co-ownership is becoming a popular solution. In this episode, we explore the benefits and risks of buying with friends, share our own experiences as co-owners, and discuss the key financial and legal considerations to ensure a smooth partnership. Next Steps: Thinking about co-owning a property? Lighthouse Mortgages can help you navigate the finance, find the best lending opt...
Mar 30, 2025•11 min
Gender-based pricing affects more than just individual purchases—it has a lasting impact on household budgets and long-term financial wellbeing. In this episode, Jess and Makayla explore the pink tax, examining how it shows up in everyday products and services, the broader economic implications, and how greater awareness and small shifts in spending habits can help mitigate its effects Next Steps: Feeling the impact of your everyday spending? Lighthouse Financial can help you create a tailored f...
Mar 27, 2025•12 min
Iyia Liu has built and sold multiple successful businesses—now, she’s refining her personal financial plan. In this episode, we dive into her approach to managing income as an entrepreneur, her strategy for property investment, and how she’s setting herself up for long-term financial freedom. From navigating self-employed lending to building wealth beyond business, we break down the key steps in Iyia’s financial journey. Next Steps: Need expert guidance on building wealth and making smarter inve...
Mar 25, 2025•37 min
Looking to buy a home but struggling with high prices? In this episode, we explore New Zealand’s most affordable housing markets, the risks and rewards of regional investment, and whether rentvesting could be your best path to homeownership. Plus, key factors driving property growth and smart mortgage strategies to get you there. Next steps: Looking to buy in one of NZ’s most affordable regions or start your rentvesting journey? Lighthouse Financial Mortgages can help you navigate your options a...
Mar 23, 2025•16 min
Nvidia has been the hottest stock in AI, but is it all hype or solid investment? In this episode, we break down its 200% year-on-year revenue growth, the dominance of its AI chips, the risk of overvaluation, rising competition from China, and what history tells us about tech bubbles—so you can decide if it's a smart buy or just another hype train. Next Steps: Wondering how to navigate market hype and make smarter investment decisions? The Lighthouse Financial team can help you build a long-term ...
Mar 20, 2025•12 min
Should you go all-in or hedge your bets? In this episode, we explore the key differences between intensification and diversification, breaking down how each approach impacts investing in shares, property, and business. We unpack the risks of betting on high-growth stocks, the safety of diversifying across asset classes, and why top investors favour one strategy over the other. Next Steps: Need expert guidance on building wealth and making smarter investment decisions? Lighthouse Financial Wealth...
Mar 18, 2025•11 min
Think an inheritance is just free money? Think again! In this episode, we uncover the true cost of an inheritance in New Zealand—because while 50% of Kiwis don’t have a will, 100% of family disputes over money are a nightmare. Michael and James break down common misconceptions, share wild inheritance stories, and explain how to protect your family, avoid legal headaches, and build generational wealth that lasts. Next Steps: Not sure what to do with your inheritance? Lighthouse Wealth can help yo...
Mar 16, 2025•14 min
Gen Z, listen up—this is the money talk you need! In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Makayla break down the key financial lessons they wish they knew in their 20s—from avoiding lifestyle creep to negotiating salaries and making smart money moves early. Whether you're just starting out or playing catch-up, these practical tips will help set you up for long-term financial success. Next Steps: If you're in your 20s and looking to get your finances on track—whether it's budgeting, investing, ...
Mar 13, 2025•26 min
In this episode we sit down with Kiwibank’s Chief Economist, Jarrod Kerr, to unpack “Trumpnomics” and its ripple effects on global markets, trade, and New Zealand’s economy. From tariffs and inflation to AI and government debt, we explore how shifting economic and political landscapes could shape the future for investors and businesses alike. Next Steps: Navigating an uncertain economy requires staying informed and thinking long-term. From trade tensions to tech shifts, smart investors adapt to ...
Mar 11, 2025•25 min
Why would anyone buy a property that LOSES money? In this episode, we break down the real strategy behind negatively geared investments—how short-term losses can lead to long-term wealth, who should (and shouldn’t) use this approach, and the key risks to watch out for. Plus, some wild landlord stories you won’t believe. Don’t miss this deep dive into property investing! Next steps If you're considering a negatively geared investment property, having the right mortgage strategy is key—Lighthouse ...
Mar 09, 2025•15 min
School taught us calculus, but did it ever teach us how to do our taxes or budget for rent? In this episode of Cheques & Balances, Jess and Makayla dive into the money lessons we should have learned in school—like avoiding sneaky debt traps, understanding tax brackets, and why waiting before splurging on that $600 bag might be the smartest financial move you make. Brought to you by Lighthouse Financial – for thorough financial advice on tax, income, and growing your wealth, talk to the exper...
Mar 06, 2025•17 min
In this episode, Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr breaks down NZ’s economy, interest rates, and housing market. Are we on the road to recovery, or is more pain ahead? Plus, how U.S. inflation and Trump could shake things up. Expert insights, market moves, and what it all means for you. More market insights & financial strategies: Preparing for what’s ahead? Lighthouse Financial can guide you through interest rates, housing, and investments. Want more insights? Check out these episodes: O...
Mar 04, 2025•21 min
In this episode, we explore how to give your family’s next generation a financial head start. From smart savings strategies to unlocking the power of long-term growth, we break down how parents can set their kids up for financial success—without sacrificing their own future. Whether you're considering KiwiSaver, investment funds, or teaching money lessons early, this is your go-to guide for building generational wealth the right way. This episode is proudly sponsored by ...
Mar 02, 2025•14 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Adam Farrell, Director of Lighthouse Property, to break down what smart investors always look for in properties. From understanding property titles to identifying high-growth areas and making confident buying decisions, Adam shares expert insights to help you maximise your property investments. Register for Adams upcoming property investment webinar here Register for APIA’s ‘Power Skills for Investment Success’ workshop. Get your FREE ticket with code ‘BESTPOD’ a...
Feb 27, 2025•21 min
In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest financial questions—how much do you need to retire? We break down the key factors, from lifestyle costs to investment strategies, and share a simple rule of thumb to help you estimate your retirement number. Whether you're just starting out or catching up later in life, this episode will help you take control of your financial future. This episode is proudly sponsored by Partners Life...
Feb 25, 2025•15 min
In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Mikayla break down how they manage their own budgets, offering a step-by-step guide to structuring finances. They discuss the 50/30/20 rule, unexpected expenses, and strategies for automating bills and setting up smart spending buckets. Plus, they highlight the importance of balancing savings with spending and creating a budget that actually works in real life. Learn more about PocketSmith here This episode is proudly sponsored by ...
Feb 23, 2025•27 min
