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Weaving Gold | A Money Podcast
Weaving Gold | A Money Podcast
Author: Nathan Fradley, Jordan Vaka
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© 2025
Description
A podcast about retiring well, aged care, and navigating life's big transitions.
Life is a tapestry—woven from every decision, every relationship, every moment. Weaving Gold is here to help you untangle the financial threads, so you can spend more time focusing on what matters.
Hosted by independent financial planners Nathan Fradley and Jordan Vaka, this podcast is your companion through some of life's most complex chapters—whether you're planning retirement, supporting aging parents, facing separation, or grieving the loss of a loved one.
Each week, we unpack real-life questions in plain language, covering topics like aged care, estate planning, superannuation, downsizing, and the emotional side of financial decision-making.
Bite-sized episodes. Practical insights. No jargon. Just help, when and where you need it most.
You can find more of our episodes where you've listened to this one, or on our website - www.weavinggoldpodcast.com where you can also get in touch.
Life is a tapestry—woven from every decision, every relationship, every moment. Weaving Gold is here to help you untangle the financial threads, so you can spend more time focusing on what matters.
Hosted by independent financial planners Nathan Fradley and Jordan Vaka, this podcast is your companion through some of life's most complex chapters—whether you're planning retirement, supporting aging parents, facing separation, or grieving the loss of a loved one.
Each week, we unpack real-life questions in plain language, covering topics like aged care, estate planning, superannuation, downsizing, and the emotional side of financial decision-making.
Bite-sized episodes. Practical insights. No jargon. Just help, when and where you need it most.
You can find more of our episodes where you've listened to this one, or on our website - www.weavinggoldpodcast.com where you can also get in touch.
55 Episodes
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Christmas often brings emotional pressure, rising costs, and financial stress. Nathan and Jordan talk through why Christmas spending feels overwhelming and share a simple strategy to take the pressure off next year. From setting up a Christmas savings account to rethinking gift expectations and family traditions, this episode focuses on practical steps that help you feel more in control and enjoy the season without the financial hangover. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Christmas often brings families together for the first time in months, and it can also highlight changes in ageing parents that are easy to miss during the year. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan explore what to look for when you notice Mum or Dad might not be coping, how to approach sensitive family conversations, and how to plan Christmas when a parent is already in aged care. They cover practical signs of cognitive or physical decline, the emotional weight of the season, navigating family dynamics, deciding whether leaving the facility is appropriate, and how to manage roles, expectations and care needs. A clear, compassionate guide for families navigating aged care during the holidays. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Christmas can be magical for kids, but emotionally loaded for separated parents. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan explore how to create a peaceful, child-focused Christmas when co-parenting. They cover practical planning, communication, gift-giving expectations, managing extended family, handling school holiday logistics and navigating financial responsibilities. If this is your first Christmas post-separation or you are still finding your rhythm, this conversation offers clear, compassionate guidance to help you enjoy the season while keeping your children's needs at the centre. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Many women approaching retirement wonder whether to stay in the family home or move into a retirement or lifestyle village. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan break down how these arrangements work, the fees involved, what to watch out for in contracts, and how to protect yourself from common pitfalls. They also explore the social, financial and wellbeing benefits when retirement villages are the right fit. If you have ageing parents or you're planning your own next stage, this episode will help you ask the right questions with confidence. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Most conversations about life insurance focus on taking out a policy, not on what happens when a payout actually arrives. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan walk through the real administrative steps, the emotional shock, the delays, and the decisions people face when they lose a partner and a claim begins. They explain why timing varies, what insurers check, how superannuation complicates payouts, why beneficiary nominations matter, and how to avoid rushed choices during grief. This is a grounded, practical guide for anyone wanting to understand what to expect and how to support someone navigating this overwhelming process. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Love, Loss and Legacy with Jordan Vaka Life, Loss and Legacy – PlanningSolo | Independent Financial Adviser Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
In this episode, Nathan and Jordan explore the emotional and financial crossroads many women face when their children move out. They unpack the guilt around reducing financial support, the shift toward prioritising retirement, and why scarcity becomes real the closer you get to finishing work. They discuss how to assess whether ongoing help for adult kids is sustainable, how to avoid unintentionally sacrificing your own future, and how a financial plan can clarify what's possible. They also explore downsizing, blended family pressures, and why putting yourself first is not selfish; it's necessary. Based on real client stories, this episode will help you rethink support, boundaries, and the path toward a secure retirement. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Many people wonder whether they truly need ongoing financial advice or if a one-off plan will do? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan break down what ongoing advice really is, who benefits most, and why the relationship with your adviser matters just as much as the strategies. They discuss accountability, decision fatigue, changing life circumstances, and tailoring advice to your needs. A practical conversation for anyone questioning whether continued support is worth it Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
After years of caring for others, through divorce, separation, grief, a TPD claim, or supporting ageing parents, it is common to feel guilty for spending money or time on themselves. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan explore why investing in yourself isn't indulgent… it's necessary. We unpack the practical and emotional benefits of using a small portion of your settlement money or inheritance to rebuild your wellbeing. From personal coaching, psychology, and movement, to nutrition, styling, and confidence; these investments often create greater long-term life satisfaction than anything in your bank account. This episode is about giving yourself permission to come first again. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan's Blog Post: The Second Best Investment You Can Make After a Divorce Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Caring for a parent entering aged care is emotional enough... and then the invoices arrive. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan unpack one of the most common questions families ask: Should I pay my parents' aged care fees? They explore: The guilt that often drives the question, What actually counts as "paying fees," the risks of lending money, How powers of attorney affect loan agreements, The impact on means-tested fees, and Why good intentions can sometimes create serious financial and estate problems. This is a must-listen for anyone supporting an ageing parent, navigating sibling dynamics, or unsure how to help without jeopardising their own financial position. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Most people buy personal insurance when life is busy; mortgages, kids, careers; but years later the renewal notice arrives and you wonder: Do I still need this? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan break down the four core types of personal insurance (Life, TPD, Trauma and Income Protection) and reframe the whole conversation away from products and premiums, and toward the events that actually change your life. They explore: • How to think about financial consequences of death, disability, critical illness or temporary loss of income • How to assess what you can "self-insure" vs. what would devastate your family • Why reviewing cover every 1–2 years protects you from over- or under-insuring • The hidden dignity and freedom insurance can provide during the worst moments of life. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Granny flats aren't just backyard builds; they're legal and financial arrangements that can impact your pension, your estate, and your families harmony. In this episode Nathan and Jordan Introduce the concept of Granny Flat rights, explaining what they are, and what theyre not Explain how Centrelink assesses the situations Emphasise the importance of a proper written agreements and professional advice, And explore the real questions families should consider before they embark on establishing Granny Flat rights. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch for advice. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
When it comes to estate planning, few things are as misunderstood as property ownership and testamentary trusts. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan sit down with Estate Planning lawyer Lucy Percy, founder of Head and Heart Estate Planning, to unpack What a testamentary trust actually is, How property ownership (joint tenants vs tenants in common) affects your will, Why getting this wrong could mean losing half your home. If you've ever wondered whether a testamentary trust is worth the cost, or what really happens to your home when you pass; this episode will help you understand how to protect what matters most. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Lucy Percy Email: lucy@hhep.com.au Web: www.headandheartestateplanning.com.au Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Separation often means running two households on the same income, and that can get overwhelming fast. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan unpack how to manage your budget during separation, what the Family Court looks for in financial statements, and how to regain confidence and clarity around money after a relationship breakdown. They also discuss emotional pitfalls, fairness, and practical tools like the MoneySmart budget planner to make sense of your expenses. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
When should you update your will? What really makes a "good" one? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan sit down with estate planning lawyer Lucy Percy to unpack the triggers for reviewing your will, the role of an executor, and why DIY will kits can create costly headaches later. They also explore how to handle guilt, fairness, and blended family complexity after loss and why the right lawyer can make all the difference. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Lucy Percy Email: lucy@hhep.com.au Web: www.headandheartestateplanning.com.au Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser or legal professional. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
When a loved one moves into aged care, one of the biggest questions families face is: Can we afford this room? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan unpack a real-life case study comparing two accommodation options: one at $450,000 and one at $700,000. They explore how to assess affordability, the impact of Centrelink and income changes, and why financial decisions in aged care aren't always just about money. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Choosing the right super fund isn't about finding the "best" one, it's about finding the one that fits you. In this episode, Nathan and Jordan unpack what really matters when comparing funds: fees, access, customer service, ethical options, insurance, and how much control you actually want. Whether you're 30 or 60, this conversation helps you be more intentional about your super and confident in your decisions. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
A will only matters after you're gone, but what happens if you lose capacity while you're still here? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan are joined by estate planning lawyer Lucy Percy from Head and Heart Estate Planning to unpack why an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) might be the most important document you ever sign. They explore what happens if you don't have one, how long it can take to get legal authority after capacity is lost, and the hidden traps when financial institutions don't understand how to apply them. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Lucy Percy Email: lucy@hhep.com.au Web: www.headandheartestateplanning.com.au Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser or legal professional. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
This episode is all about the mindset and thought process you can take for any investment decisions, but especially when you're thinking of borrowing to invest. A listener in their late-30s/40s has a paid-off home, an investment property and ETFs' but still worries they're "missing out on the leverage property offers." Nathan and Jordan unpack feelings vs financial reality, why goals beat comparison, when leverage helps (and hurts), and a simple decision checklist: set the destination, model the "do nothing" path, test risk vs need, and be intentional. Boring, consistent moves often win. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
Many people worry that they'll need to sell their home to afford retirement ; but is downsizing really the solution? In this episode, Nathan and Jordan unpack the emotional and financial sides of downsizing: from losing your "family hub" to freeing up time and money for a simpler life. They explore what makes downsizing successful, when it backfires, and why understanding your motivations is more important than the money alone. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.
When the last surviving parent moves into aged care, families face one of the hardest questions—what happens to the family home? Nathan and Jordan unpack the emotional, practical, and financial realities of this decision. From sibling tensions to Centrelink rules, property maintenance, and the two-year exemption window, this episode offers clear, compassionate guidance for families navigating one of life's toughest transitions. Visit www.weavinggoldpodcast.com for more episodes, blogs and to get in touch. Nathan: advice@nathanfradley.com.au www.nathanfradley.com.au Jordan: jordan@planningsolo.com.au www.planningsolo.com.au The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser. Jordan and Nathan are both authorised representatives of PlanningSolo Licensing, AFS Licence 526143.























