Wealth Coffee Chats

It’s been a big week in the finance world, with the Reserve Bank of Australia announcing a 0.25% interest rate rise after two years of stability. In this Friday edition of Wealth Coffee Chats, Sarah Schoen from Positive Money breaks down the rate rise in real, dollar terms and explains what it actually means for everyday households.Rather than focusing on headlines or fear, this episode puts the numbers into perspective—showing how a rate increase impacts a typical mortgage and why it may not be as alarming as it first sounds. Sarah also shares her outlook on where interest rates may head over the next 12 months and why 2026 is shaping up to be a relatively quiet year compared to the volatility of 2022.You’ll also learn practical strategies to help manage higher repayments, including how to use offsets effectively, when fixed rates may be worth considering, and why speaking to your bank or broker can make an immediate difference. If you’re feeling uneasy about rising rates or simply want clarity and confidence around your mortgage strategy, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and move forward with a plan.

In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, we break down the Reserve Bank of Australia’s latest 25 basis point interest rate hike and what’s really driving the decision. With inflation sitting stubbornly above target and unemployment trending lower, the RBA has made it clear that further rate rises are firmly on the table in 2026. We unpack the key signals from the RBA statement, why household spending and housing markets are back in focus, and how global factors are quietly influencing local decisions. Most importantly, we explore what this rate rise means for everyday Australians—homeowners, buyers, investors, and savers—and how different asset classes like property, shares, bonds, gold, and crypto may respond. If you want to understand what’s happening, why it matters, and how to prepare your strategy moving forward, this episode is a must-listen.

Car deductions are one of the most overclaimed—and most audited—tax items in Australia, and in this Tax Tuesday Wealth Coffee Chat, Daniel McPherson pulls the handbrake on the myths that keep landing people in trouble. From logbooks that don’t survive audits to the truth about utes, payload limits, and fringe benefits tax, this episode breaks down exactly what the ATO allows and where people go wrong. You’ll hear real case studies of claims that cost thousands, learn the difference between the cents-per-kilometre and logbook methods, and understand why tolls, fuel records, and calendars are now being matched automatically. Whether you’re an employee, a tradie, or a business owner buying vehicles through your company, this episode shows how to claim what you’re entitled to—without guessing, copying your mate, or ending up in the taxman’s firing line.

What truly drives property markets—and why does one Australian city look almost unstoppable right now? In this Wealth Coffee Chat, we kick off 2026 by unpacking the real forces behind long-term property growth, from interest rates and politics to supply shortages, jobs, infrastructure, and the powerful role of demographics. Joined by Jeff Braley from McCrindle Research, the conversation dives into why Southeast Queensland is surging, how the Olympic effect is reshaping Brisbane and its sister cities, and what population growth forecasts mean for investors over the next 25 years. You’ll also hear insights on migration trends, shrinking household sizes, the massive generational wealth transfer underway, and why data—not opinions—should guide your investment decisions. If you want clarity, context, and confidence heading into the next phase of the property cycle, this episode sets the foundation for smarter investing in 2026 and beyond.

With the RBA expected to move rates higher, many investors are asking whether fixed rates belong in their property investing strategy. This episode breaks down how fixed rates work, when they can be worth paying a little extra upfront, and how to hedge interest rate risk by splitting loans. You’ll also learn about rate lock fees, break costs, and how smart loan structuring can support long-term cash flow and wealth strategy. A practical finance discussion for anyone managing a mortgage in a changing market.

2026 is kicking off with elevated inflation, rising interest rate expectations, and increased market volatility. In this episode, we unpack what the latest inflation data means for interest rates, finance decisions, and long-term wealth strategy. We also explore how global uncertainty, commodities, currencies, and market sentiment are shaping property investing and financial planning right now. A must-watch mid-financial-year reset for serious investors.

In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, we break down the Australian rental market outlook for 2026 and what it means for property investors. With vacancy rates remaining tight and affordability becoming a key pressure point, this discussion explores where rent growth is strongest, which property types are outperforming, and how landlords can stay proactive. If you’re focused on property investing, cash flow, and protecting long-term wealth, this episode is a must-watch.

ATO audits are becoming more targeted, data-driven, and common for property investors. In this episode, we break down what the ATO is really focusing on, the documents they request, and where investors are most likely to make costly mistakes. You’ll learn how property investing, tax deductions, depreciation, and capital gains are scrutinised — and why preparation and audit insurance are critical parts of a smart wealth strategy. Essential viewing for anyone serious about protecting their finances.

What does it really take to rebuild wealth after starting over? In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, we unpack a real-world Australian property investing journey focused on long-term strategy, risk management, and smart portfolio structuring. Learn how consistent reviews, diversified property investing, and disciplined wealth strategy can help build toward $150,000 in passive income.

If you were starting your property portfolio again in 2026, where would you begin? In this Wealth Coffee Chats episode, Sara Shome breaks down the exact foundations she’d put in place first — building the right team, mapping a smart lending strategy, and aligning finance, tax, and investment decisions from day one. Learn why structure, cash flow, and ongoing strategy reviews are critical to long-term success.

Opportunities don’t wait—and neither should your property investing plan. This episode unpacks why being “ready” matters, how delays can quietly stall your portfolio growth, and what to do when a deal (like house-and-land) keeps getting pushed back. You’ll learn practical ways to review your position, access equity, and pivot with a smarter wealth strategy—without sacrificing lifestyle. A must-watch for anyone balancing finance decisions, market shifts, and long-term investing goals.

What will 2026 bring for interest rates, inflation, and mortgage strategy? This Finance Friday episode breaks down recent inflation and consumer spending signals, why some lenders are lifting fixed rates, and what that may imply for the next RBA move. You’ll also get three practical finance goals for the year—getting into the property market, leveraging equity, and paying down bad debt faster using tools like refinancing, budgeting, and offset accounts. A must-watch for property investing, interest rates, finance planning, and wealth strategy in 2026.

Most investors start with trial-and-error—buying close to home, hoping for growth, and getting caught out by cashflow surprises. This episode breaks down what a property investment coach actually does: building a tailored property investing strategy, stress-testing finance and buffers, and helping you make smarter decisions with data (not emotion). You’ll also learn why “time in the market” isn’t enough without due diligence, cashflow planning, and the right team. Perfect for anyone serious about wealth strategy, portfolio building, and investing with confidence.

Why are hot cross buns on supermarket shelves in January? And more importantly, what does that have to do with your property portfolio? In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, Property Investment Advisor Emily Miller dives deep into the psychology behind why we make (or delay) financial decisions. Drawing on concepts from Anna Lembke’s best-selling book Dopamine Nation, Emily explains why modern society’s addiction to constant stimulation is destroying our ability to plan for the long term. We explore the concept of "Delay Discounting"—the psychological tendency to value a smaller reward now over a massive reward later—and how this cognitive bias leads investors to procrastinate until it’s too late.

Waiting feels safe — but in property investing, inaction can be the most expensive decision of all. This episode unpacks the true financial and emotional cost of waiting, how inflation quietly erodes your wealth, and why momentum matters more than perfect timing. Learn how smart action, education, and strategy can help you build long-term wealth and income-producing assets. A powerful mindset shift for anyone serious about finance and wealth strategy.

With interest rates on hold and lenders tightening policies, many investors are wondering what 2026 really looks like. This episode breaks down the RBA’s latest decision, DTI changes, and what they mean for property investing and borrowing power. You’ll also learn simple, practical budgeting strategies and Christmas money hacks to protect your cash flow. A must-watch for anyone focused on smarter finance and long-term wealth strategy.

In this final Wealth Coffee Chats episode for 2025, we take stock of the year that was—from RBA rate decisions to ATO warnings for self-employed professionals. Discover how key global markets performed, why alternative assets had a mixed year, and what changes could impact your business structure in 2026. Plus, we explore the growing ATO scrutiny on income distribution for self-employed individuals.

In this Tax Tuesday edition of Wealth Coffee Chats, Kim Wolfenden from Positive Tax Solutions walks property investors through the essential record-keeping strategies to take the stress out of tax time.

Is it possible to build a multi-million dollar property portfolio starting with 100% debt? In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, Property Coach Megan Wolfenden breaks down a real-life case study of a couple who achieved "1% Club" status (owning 3+ investment properties) in just 7.5 years. Megan walks through the exact numbers behind three specific purchases: a high-yielding apartment in Canberra, a House & Land build in Queensland during the height of COVID, and a strategic renovation project in Melbourne. You'll see how they used existing equity to fund the deposits, navigated high LVRs, and ultimately created over $1.1 million in net equity. If you are stuck in "analysis paralysis" or waiting for the "perfect time" to buy, this case study proves that time in the market is the ultimate wealth creator.

Move over Spotify Wrapped... it’s time for your 2025 Finance Wrapped! 🏠💰 In this episode of Wealth Coffee Chats, Jason Whitton is joined by Sarah from the Positive Money team to break down the massive numbers from the last 12 months. From record-breaking property sales to the long-awaited interest rate cuts, we cover exactly what Australian investors got up to in 2025. Did your state come out on top? Did Regional Australia beat the Capital Cities? And just how much of the market are mortgage brokers now handling? Tune in to get the full rundown and see where you fit in the stats.