Meet Mila Holmes, an amazingly disciplined and driven Winter Series guest who, together with her partner, owns a property portfolio worth nearly $2M. But growing up....? There was one morning when she and her family woke up with their entire life savings WIPED. 😱 Mila shares what it was like to experience this, from growing up living with 10 other people (yep...housing in USSR is VERY different to Australia) and rampant debt levels to how she made the brave, life-changing decision to move to Au...
Jul 27, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Meet Jason Bird, today’s super special Winter Series guest. Although, this probably isn’t the FIRST time you’ve ever heard of him because today’s guest is also... Former Scandal'us pop star from the 90’s hit show Pop Stars!! 😮 Yep. We got to sit down with an incredibly humble and inspiring former pop star with a truly mind-blowing story to share. We’ll be starting right back at the beginning, before the fame and worldwide tours, to when recessions and failing family businesses were his rea...
Jul 20, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast Today we’re continuing our inspirational 2023 Winter Series with a story from a true Aussie battler.... Meet Laraine, a nurse in the Trauma Centre Emergency Department who, until very recently, didn’t think she could see an endpoint. As she would later share with us... “I have been kicked and knocked out, and I get sworn at every shift (literally). I stay for the people that we can save as a team. However, sometimes the sadness is relentless. So what today's meeting gave me was an endpoint....
Jul 13, 2023•53 min•Transcript available on Metacast It's that time of year again, folks! Today marks the exciting beginning of our highly anticipated 2023 Winter Series. Get ready for an extraordinary lineup of guests, each with their own awe-inspiring stories that revolve around this year's captivating theme: "What Drove You To Act." Drawing inspiration from those pivotal moments we see in movies, the light bulb moments and "A-ha" breakthroughs, we delve into the driving forces behind every successful investor'...
Jul 06, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast In our latest episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Laurence Hugo, a true master in the art of negotiation with over three decades of experience in the dynamic worlds of banking and debt management. Prepare to have your expectations shattered because this conversation is anything but dry folks!!! It's a treasure trove of wisdom and practical solutions for all your financial challenges. With his extensive expertise, Laurence specialises in guiding both individuals and businesses...
Jun 29, 2023•2 hr 32 min•Transcript available on Metacast In May, we had the privilege of being featured on the highly regarded Aussie Fire Bug podcast. We delved into the origins of property acquisition, discussing the humble beginnings that led us on our respective journeys. Additionally, we explored the pressing issue of the Australian housing crisis, dissecting the multifaceted implications and exploring potential solutions. These are the key themes we unpack: How Ben and I originally made a connection Property investing guidelines and regulations ...
Jun 27, 2023•2 hr 32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Join us for our latest Q&A episode as we dive deep into the intricate mechanics of interest-only loans, we unveil some of the strategies for managing mortgage stress, and we also unlock the hidden gems of building financial muscle memory. Get ready to unlock a wealth of knowledge and practical insights as we explore the art of budgeting, saving, and setting goals. Discover the power of delayed gratification and learn how it can shape your financial future. In this episode, we address the bur...
Jun 22, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode, we dive deep into real-life case studies, unravelling the journey of overcoming setbacks, unlocking untapped potential, and navigating uncharted horizons. Prepare yourself to be equipped with invaluable insights and tools that will empower you to conquer challenges, turn setbacks into stepping-stones, and forge your path to resounding success. Join us as we unpack the following key themes: 💡 Discover the impact of embracing diverse perspectives and how it can unlock...
Jun 15, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Transcript available on Metacast Get ready to be blown away by a groundbreaking episode today folks! In this essential show, we are peeling back the layers and exposing the concealed truths lurking within the world of property spruikers. Hold on tight as we take a deep dive into this industry, shedding light on the risks that lie beneath the surface. Our mission is to leave no stone unturned as we navigate through the realm of property spruikers and explore their questionable tactics. From the absence of regulation within the i...
Jun 08, 2023•2 hr 41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Another month down and yet another close call by the RBA ! Welcome back to Ben’s RBA and Economic Update. Join Ben as he unpacks the RBA's latest decision. From navigating loan default aversion to the RBA’s interest rate dilemma, the Aussie economy’s wage growth vs productivity battle, mortgage prison insights, cash flow management tips, and unexpected property price surges. Tune in to stay updated on the latest market developments and gain valuable insights for making informed financial de...
Jun 06, 2023•1 hr 17 min•Transcript available on Metacast Get ready for an absolute powerhouse of an episode, folks! We had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Joseph Healy and David Hornery, known as The Judo Boys, and let us assure you, it is an extraordinary deep dive into knowledge and wisdom that will leave you inspired and empowered! Despite the challenges, Joseph and David boldly established Judo Bank in 2016, revolutionising the Australian banking industry. Their extensive experience in the business world, coupled with their remarkable jo...
Jun 01, 2023•2 hr 43 min•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome to our latest jam-packed Q&A episode, where we dive deep into the multifaceted world of property ownership. From the challenges of retirement risks to the strategies for alleviating mortgage stress, the evolving landscape of tenancy reforms, and the crucial examination of power dynamics, this thought-provoking discussion offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse perspectives surrounding property. Join us as we unravel the complexities of property ownership. In this episode, w...
May 25, 2023•1 hr 29 min•Transcript available on Metacast In our latest Bonus Episode for 2023, (also the 5th episode from the Talking Property Tax with Julia series), Ben is deep diving into the latest tax updates from across Australia! To help him, we’ve got Julia Hartman, Empower Wealth Chief Technical Advisor and Bantacs’ Founder 🧾👔📅 . Together they'll be unpacking... Important Changes to HECS/HELP Debt – changes you MUST ACT on quickly Superannuation Contributions before 30 June General Tax Return Insight End-of-the-Year Tax Strategies for...
May 22, 2023•56 min•Transcript available on Metacast Join us in our latest episode of MythBusters as we debunk the widespread misconceptions surrounding taxes and financial planning. Prepare to be enlightened as we unravel the complexities of last-minute tax preparation and unveil the secrets of meticulous documentation. Brace yourself for the rollercoaster ride through the ever-changing landscape of tax laws and their impact on depreciation claims. We also delve into the realm of financial planning, shattering the myth that a defence strategy is ...
May 18, 2023•2 hr 36 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week’s episode, we sat down with NRL superstar Chad Townsend. And let us assure you folks, this one is NOT JUST for sports lovers… It truly has something for EVERYONE. It is absolutely packed with inspiration and wisdom. Chad's incredible journey from 17, when he made a huge decision to purchase his first property, to his current state is an inspiring testament to perseverance. His story sheds light on the sacrifices that he had to make, to embracing pivotal catalysts that propelled...
May 11, 2023•2 hr 31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Investing can be a daunting task, as it requires making definitive decisions in an uncertain and ever-changing market. Many people fall prey to the sirens that lure them toward investment traps, but today’s guest Michael Kemp, the author of the Ulysses Contract, has spent 35 years mastering the art of investing and avoiding these traps. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on your investment goals and using history, diversification, and patience as your guide toward financial success....
May 04, 2023•2 hr 40 min•Transcript available on Metacast The temperatures are dropping, the end of the financial year is looming and the Reserve Bank of Australia have just released their cash rate folks! The RBA’s May update is packed with global news, from Banking Woes in the US to the train wreck that is the UK economy, I also cover the Property Market Inflection Point and deep dive into a Rental Yield Analysis. Tune in now to hear Ben’s evaluation of the update and his predictions for the future! Tune in to this episode where Ben unpacks three key...
May 01, 2023•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast We all have those family and friends with impressive portfolios and beautiful renovations that leave us wondering... “How the heck did they do it?!” Like...is the answer simply earning a higher income?? Or did they hit the golden number of properties to achieve their dream lifestyle? And ultimately, is it possible for you to achieve the same results?!? Well, you’ve arrived at the perfect episode to answer ALL the questions above!! In our third awesome Mythbusters episode, we’re shining a light o...
Apr 27, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Transcript available on Metacast In today’s episode, we’re covering exactly how to reposition and recover when interest rates have nearly wiped out your entire buffer! From making your reduced "rainy day” money last to Ben’s Golden Buffer Ratio (plus a behind-the-scenes look at how our experienced team of planners do it), we’re sharing how to bunker down and hold for the long-term as the market bottoms out (which we reckon is happening NOW!) And, like all gigantic Q&A Days, we’re not just unpacking how to bounce back f...
Apr 20, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Transcript available on Metacast There are many myths about buying property, but... it is important to avoid the hype of the headlines folks! In this week’s episode, we tackle some of the biggest property-buying myths going around – and bust them right open with facts and real-life examples from our team on the ground. This is Part 2 of our series on myths and misconceptions and today we unpack some of the big ones; 🔎 Are property prices dropping?? 🔎 The Time it takes to transact 🔎 What is a Bargain Property? 🔎 Unpacking th...
Apr 13, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast When it comes to property investment, data is a very valuable tool for making informed decisions. However, looking at single data measures can be dangerous, especially when it comes to something as complex as the housing market. To truly understand affordability and sustainability, we need to consider a range of factors and look at the bigger picture. Take median house prices, for example. This is a commonly used statistic that can give us a general idea of the state of the housing market. Howev...
Apr 06, 2023•2 hr 34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to Ben’s RBA and Economic Update where this month's announcement could mark a “turning point” for Australia... Will the Reserve Bank of Australia finally end the country’s 11-month rate hike or is the inflation genie still out of the bottle?! Ben unpacks this momentous decision and what it means for Australia’s future (can we expect more rate rises?!). Plus, we’re diving into the latest market data which sees the country recording its largest drop in retail spending – ever (out...
Apr 04, 2023•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast Last week we sat down with one of our Mortgage Brokers and well, they shared a client’s story which completely shattered our hearts and became the driver behind today’s show... You see, this client had fallen for a common but sadly misguided lending myth which resulted in her losing THOUSANDS of dollars...😮🙁 That’s why, in this episode, we’ve switched things up to become Ben and Bryce, your Mortgage MythBusters!! From debunking the 8 most common mortgage myths to unpacking where these misconce...
Mar 30, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast In our first Bonus Episode for 2023, (that’s also the fourth episode from the Talking Property Tax with Julia series), Ben is deep diving into the latest tax updates from across Australia! To help him, we’ve got Julia Hartman, Empower Wealth Chief Technical Advisor and Bantacs’ Founder 🧾👔📅 . Together they'll be unpacking... Changes to working from home Expense claims CGT affects most of your assets – even gifting jewellery! Renting a room out to an international students 2 Hectares &...
Mar 28, 2023•42 min•Transcript available on Metacast Given today’s unique and nail-biting economic environment, it’s no surprise that so many people are asking, “What is the next best move for me?!” And the sad truth is...there is no ‘one size fits all’! What we can give you contact~first.name, however, is the next best thing... Our insider's knowledge, skills, tips and tactics that we (and our advisors) use for our clients that helps them to optimise their journeys! Using real case studies from real clients, we’re unpacking everything from e...
Mar 23, 2023•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast The ONE tax question we get asked all the time is... What name should I put my tax structure in?!? And, as Ben says, “It is a minefield.” To help you avoid getting into any tricky situations we’re unpacking everything you need to know about tax structures in 2023. Did we mention...We’ve got help from one of the best! Re-joining us in the studio (For the FIRST time in 2023 – which we’re BEYOND pumped!!) is Julia Hartman: Founder of BanTACS, Leading Tax Consultant at Empower Wealth and Tax structu...
Mar 16, 2023•2 hr 34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Humans are not rational creatures - especially when it comes to our finances. So how can we identify and navigate our natural human biases and emotions around investing and risk?! Folks, in Episode 433 we’re exploring all of this and more as we dive into the fascinating topic of behavioural finances with the help of returning podcast guest and ultimate money mindset guru, Evan Lucas! Author of the best-selling book Mind Over Money: Why understanding your money behaviour will improve your financi...
Mar 09, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to another monthly RBA update and yet another cash rate hike. (No surprises here folks!). Tune in now to find out whether we’ve crept up another 25 basis points bringing the rate to 3.60%, or if the Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to jawbone consumers this month to curb spending. Overarching all this is the goliath question... If the economy is slowing (tick), unemployment is rising (tick), and wages are contained (tick), then why haven’t we seen interest rates pause!?! Listen...
Mar 06, 2023•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast It’s sad but true, we’re back covering yet ANOTHER tax grab that’s set to take 62.5% of your earnings...The Windfall Gains Tax. 🤯 Welcome back to our first Q&A session for 2023 where we’re tackling this shocking tax grab, along with a line-up of fantastic questions like… 👉 Should I renovate and rent now or rent then renovate later?! 👉 Why buy Established over new housing?! (How much do you really benefit?) 👉 And if diversification is the key to growth, should one expand their investments...
Mar 02, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Transcript available on Metacast A mortgage is one the biggest loans most people will ever take out in their life. It’s a scary thought. Now here’s the only thing scarier than that... Being stuck in Mortgage Jail and not realising it. This sad truth is unfortunately what too many folks are facing, especially with rising rates. That’s why in Episode 431, we’re shining a light on why EVERYONE needs an investment-savvy broker to help them break out of Mortgage Jail and stop overpaying on interest – for good. To help us do this, we...
Feb 23, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Transcript available on Metacast