Claim OwnershipFinancial Autonomy
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© Paul Benson
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Plenty of books, podcasts and blogs focus on building wealth – and that's great, as far as it goes. But focusing just on wealth misses the point.
I believe what most of us actually want is to have choice.
Choice in how much time we give to income-producing activities.
Choice about what those income-producing activities are.
Choice about where we live.
Choice about when we retire.
Choice about the ways we use our money to produce happiness.
In the Financial Autonomy podcast, I explore the different ways you can gain choice - from investing in stocks to becoming self-employed, starting a side hustle, or buying an investment property. I share learnings I've gained working with clients for over 20 years as a Certified Financial Planner, and interview others with interesting insights or experiences in gaining choice in life.
I believe what most of us actually want is to have choice.
Choice in how much time we give to income-producing activities.
Choice about what those income-producing activities are.
Choice about where we live.
Choice about when we retire.
Choice about the ways we use our money to produce happiness.
In the Financial Autonomy podcast, I explore the different ways you can gain choice - from investing in stocks to becoming self-employed, starting a side hustle, or buying an investment property. I share learnings I've gained working with clients for over 20 years as a Certified Financial Planner, and interview others with interesting insights or experiences in gaining choice in life.
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Retiring earlier isn't about winning the lotto — it's about understanding the financial levers that actually move the needle. In this episode, we explore five practical strategies Australians can use to bring retirement forward, including maximising super contributions, improving spending efficiency, reviewing asset allocation, tapping into home equity, and easing the transition with part-time work. Retirement is ultimately about choice, and having the option to step away earlier — even if you don't take it — is a powerful form of financial autonomy. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host and financial planner Paul Benson about 9 new year's resolutions to kickstart your 2026 financial journey. Tune in to make this your year! Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
In this episode, we step back from the day-to-day financial noise and take a long-term view with the 10 Year Wealth Test, asking the key question: are you on track for 2036? Using the power of compounding and clear goal setting, the episode outlines a simple four-step framework to assess where you are now, define your 2036 financial vision, put numbers around what success looks like, and build practical strategies and milestones to keep you on course. If you're seeking more clarity, confidence, and choice in your financial future, this episode will help you start planning the next decade with intention. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to expert marketer and international speaker Ethan Donati about his journey and the strategies and tips he would give for building confidence, personal branding, and a strong mindset. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
As you approach retirement, the question of whether to keep or sell your investment property becomes increasingly important. This episode explores how retirement reshapes your financial priorities, why property can shift from a growth asset to a source of complexity, and the key reasons many retirees choose to sell. From improving cashflow and reducing stress to making better use of tax-free superannuation income, it helps you assess whether your investment property still supports the lifestyle, flexibility, and confidence you want in retirement.
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about using debt to build wealth. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
Your 40s and 50s are a crucial window for shaping your financial future—but many people start coasting without realising it. In this episode, we break down the cost of delaying action and share simple, high-impact steps to strengthen your long-term wealth. Tune in to make these years count. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Ange Belot from Cheeky Kookaburra on starting and growing a successful small business. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
In this episode, we break down private equity and private credit—two fast-growing but often misunderstood parts of the investment world. We explore how they work, why super funds love them, and why private credit might be the most likely trigger of the next market downturn. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick and Paul discuss the topic of the moment - are stock markets, particularly the US market, in an AU fuelled bubble, with an inevitable bust somewhere on the not too distant horizon? Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
In this episode, we dive into the real power of opportunity cost and how it shapes every financial decision — from insurance and investing to lifestyle choices and where you keep your savings. Learn how recognising trade-offs can help you make clearer, more intentional decisions and ensure your money is working toward what matters most. It's a fresh, practical lens that can help you take control of your financial direction. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Sheredyn Legg and Stephen Fries about testamentary trusts and who they might be good for. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
Earning $100,000 a year in retirement — tax free — might sound too good to be true, but Australia's superannuation system makes it possible with the right planning. In this episode, we break down how it works, the rules you need to know, and the strategies that can get you there. We cover the superannuation pension phase, the transfer balance cap, and key ways to grow and structure your super for maximum tax-free income. If you're serious about building long-term wealth and securing a comfortable retirement, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Guidance team member Brenden Butler about ways to build financial security in your thirties. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
It's one of the most common questions in retirement planning — when is the right time to move your super into the pension phase? In this episode, we unpack the pros, cons, and grey areas of converting superannuation to a pension. From tax implications and minimum drawdowns to defined benefit funds and surplus income, we explore when the default advice might not be the best fit. Whether you're planning ahead, approaching retirement, or already enjoying it, this conversation will help you navigate one of the most important financial decisions you'll make. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to solicitors Sheredyn Legg and Stephen Fries about the basics of estate planning. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
An understanding of the concept known as "real return" is worth getting your head around. Without it, there is the potential to make investment mistakes. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to accountant David Markovski about all things capital gains tax to make sure you don;t pay more than you need to. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Need help? - Learn about our Wealth Builder program Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
Are all properties guaranteed to rise in value? Is a Self Managed Super Fund always the smarter choice? In this episode of Financial Autonomy, Paul tackles two of the most persistent myths in personal finance and reveal the hidden risks that can cost you dearly. From the pitfalls of off-the-plan property purchases to the real costs (and responsibilities) of managing your own super, we'll cut through the noise and give you the perspective you need to protect your wealth. If you've ever been told "property never loses value" or "SMSFs always outperform," this is the episode you can't afford to miss. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
Welcome to the third episode of our new podcast Wealth Builder. In this episode Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about whether your super is safe, considering recent events. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
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SASSA SRD https://sassagrantcheck.co.za refers to the Social Relief of Distress grant provided by the South African government to support individuals facing financial hardship. The SRD grant helps eligible citizens meet basic needs by offering monthly financial assistance, and applicants can easily check updates, approval status, and payment details online.
I just listened to this episode and according to the introduction I really would like to listen to this podcast. I took a quick look at the website but unfortunately I couldn't find the written form of the first podcasts. I would appreciate it if you could help me . At the end thanks for your effort 🙏
Any more info on why U.S. has 30 year fixed home loans and Australia doesn't?
great episode. would love to hear a follow up on ways to finance a business purchase.
great episode