Australian Finance Podcast

In this episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, you'll learn how and why insurance works. Life insurance, income protection, TPD & more. Owen Rask is joined by Phil Thompson, founder of Skye Wealth, to unpack what really happens when you make an insurance claim. They go behind the scenes on: – How insurance claims actually work – What mistakes people make when trying to claim – The vital difference between "own" vs "any" occupation cover – Why you should never go straight to a lawyer when claiming – The most common issues that stop people getting paid – Real client case studies and what went right (or wrong!) If you're curious about income protection, trauma cover, life insurance, or TPD claims, this episode shows how good insurance advice can make a huge difference. Enjoying the show? Subscribe for weekly episodes on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favourite app. Topics Covered – What really happens when you make an insurance claim – Why people often don’t realise they’re eligible for a claim – The difference between retail vs group/super insurance – Why having an adviser at claim time can save you money – The role of the waiting period and how it affects payment – Real claim case study: Chloe’s chronic fatigue income protection win – Real claim case study: Chandler’s RSI and $1.3 million TPD cover – Real claim case study: Rebecca’s mental health claim from a workplace accident – The danger of going straight to lawyers before talking to your adviser – Own occupation vs any occupation: what’s the difference? – Why good documentation and honesty make a successful claim – What to do if you’ve had time off work or a medical condition – The risk of underinsurance and how to get help Resources for this episode Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Alex Luck, founder of Everest Wealth Group and savvy financial adviser, as he shares insights on personal finance and investments. He reveals his diverse portfolio, including shares, ETFs, property, and crypto. Tackling listener questions, he discusses whether a 19-year-old should invest in property or wait for first-home grants, the pros and cons of salary sacrificing shares, and strategies for students investing $100 a month. Alex also dives into estate planning for singles and how to balance quick investments with long-term goals.

This week, the discussion tackles whether to save in high-yield accounts or invest after setting aside an emergency fund. They explore using multiple brokers, weighing the pros and cons of core and satellite portfolios. A spotlight on investment bonds for kids uncovers tax considerations and provider selection. Plus, insights on exiting rentvesting and the complexities of selling properties while managing tax implications. Lastly, they clarify what happens to HECS-HELP debt after death, shedding light on estate responsibilities.

Learn how to invest your first $1,000 with clear, practical steps. Discover why your initial investment is more impactful than you think. Gemma explains how to choose the right investment platform and pick simple, diversified options without getting overwhelmed. Automation helps ease emotional pressure, making consistency your ally. Avoid rookie mistakes like chasing hot tips or trying to time the market. This guide empowers you to build a solid foundation for your financial future.

Emma Edwards, a financial behavior expert and author of The Wardrobe Project, shares her transformative journey of a year-long no-buy challenge. She reveals how her relationship with money, body image, and confidence evolved throughout the challenge. Emma discusses overcoming temptation, the role of community support, and practical strategies to reduce impulse spending. She highlights the surprising benefits of creativity and resilience gained from not shopping, and offers insights for anyone looking to reset their spending habits for a healthier financial mindset.

In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask unpack your questions on investing, super, HECS and even a Christmas dilemma. This week we look at how to build a simple investment profile when you’re 58 and deciding between ETFs in super or outside of it, how paid parental leave really works in 2026, and what to do when your HECS balance never seems to budge. We also cover how to help a level headed 16 year old get started with investing, plus a common holiday question many families face. Do you stick to the Secret Santa limit, or match everyone else who’s blowing the budget? This episode also includes quick updates on HECS indexation changes, the Bureau of Meteorology blowout, and what it means for your hip pocket. Owen and Gemma cover: - How to compare investing inside super versus a direct ETF portfolio when you’re 58, earning well and contributing regularly - Why non concessional contributions can be powerful in your late 50s, and the key rules to understand - How employer paid parental leave works alongside the government scheme, how long each runs for, and how to apply - When HECS repayments start, why your balance might not be falling, and whether paying extra makes sense - How to teach teens the basics of investing, the best beginner podcasts, and easy ways to start with $15k - Whether you should stick to the Secret Santa limit or spend more, and how to set boundaries without killing the vibe - Updates on HECS balances, indexation, the BOM budget blowout and what it means for everyday Australians If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes. Resources for this episode Sign up for the newsletter Sign up for Rask Core Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Tahli Cavagnino, a retirement specialist and creator of Rask's Retirement Mastery course, shares her insights on navigating retirement planning. She highlights common misconceptions that leave many feeling overwhelmed and unprepared. Listeners learn the importance of engaging with superannuation early, the myth of 'it'll sort itself out,' and strategies for balancing income and capital growth. Tahli also addresses the implications of granny flat arrangements and the asset-rich, cash-poor scenario many retirees face.

Get a head start on your financial goals! Discover how cleaning up unused accounts can simplify your finances. Focus on tackling one area of money stress to make a significant impact. Learn the importance of tracking your net worth regularly to motivate progress. Gemma and Pete emphasize the value of setting clear, achievable goals instead of overwhelming yourself with long-term plans. It's all about taking practical steps now for a brighter financial future in 2026!

Cameron Gleeson, Senior Investment Strategist at BetaShares, breaks down the nuances of gearing and ETFs. He explains how BetaShares' Wealth Builder range utilizes leverage to potentially accelerate wealth, comparing moderate and high gearing strategies. Gleeson addresses the risks associated with gearing and clarifies how it functions within superannuation. Listeners learn about the tax benefits tied to ETF borrowing and the importance of assessing risk tolerance before diving into geared ETFs. This conversation is packed with practical investing insights for all levels!

Discover the crucial money decisions for your 50s, including how to manage super and property for retirement. Learn about the pros and cons of pausing salary sacrifice to fund a home. Dive into debt recycling tactics and the pitfalls to avoid. Explore the behavioral advantages of investing in property over shares. Gemma highlights the importance of financial education in schools and how to handle deposits when income is uncertain. Plus, strategies for investing with a shorter life expectancy in mind.