Australian Finance Podcast
Rask
The Australian Finance Podcast is your guide to sorting out your finances, one episode at a time. Owen Rask, Chief Investment Officer, & Gemma Mitchell, Senior Financial Adviser, bring you actionable strategies and knowledge that you can put into practice today. Save money, invest better and live life on your terms.~~New to the show? We recommend that you head back to our Starter Pack series of the podcast in Jan/Feb 2024, to get your head around some really important concepts! More advanced listeners might enjoy our other show, The Australian Investors Podcast.~~SHOW NOTES: https://www.raskmedia.com.au/podcasts/australian-finance-podcast/~~DISCLAIMER: The information in this podcast series is general financial information/advice only. That means, the advice does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the advice is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on the information. In addition, you should obtain and read the product disclosure statement (PDS) before making a decision to acquire a financial product. If you don’t know what your needs are, you should consult a trusted and licensed financial adviser who can provide you with personal financial product advice. Please read our Terms of Service and Financial Services Guide on www.rask.com.au/fsg.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 29min
ETFs vs Mortgage: Where’s Your Money Best Spent? – Q&A
This week’s guest is James Phelan, a senior financial adviser at Rask, known for his insights on superannuation and investment strategies. He discusses how the Age Pension interacts with superannuation, shedding light on eligibility and strategies. Listeners learn what happens to super when someone dies without a will and the nuances of debt recycling. James and Gemma debate whether to focus on paying down a mortgage or investing in ETFs, emphasizing a balanced approach. Plus, they unpack the concept of wrap accounts and what to ask financial advisers.
10 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 55min
How I built a $4.5m business, with Phil Thompson
Phil Thompson, founder of Skye Wealth and an expert in personal insurance advice, shares his journey from buying a failing financial advice business at 24 to leading a thriving insurance-only firm generating over $4.3 million annually. He discusses the struggles of flatlining for six years, the pivot to specialization, and the critical role of automation in scaling the business. Phil emphasizes the importance of culture, servant leadership, and a strong team dynamic, all while setting ambitious goals for the future.
6 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 28min
No Pay Rise? No Problem (Sort Of)!
Lexi Smith, a money coach and founder of MoneyVine, joins Gemma Mitchell to explore the benefits of financial wellbeing workshops in the workplace. They discuss how these workshops can reduce financial stress, thus improving employee focus and performance. Lexi emphasizes personalized content based on employee surveys, ensuring topics resonate with diverse teams. They also highlight the importance of actionable steps employees can take to ease financial tension and differentiate between coaching and financial advice. Personal stories from attendees reveal how these workshops can spark transformative financial changes.
24 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 45min
Lessons from Peter Lynch, Charlie Munger and Warren Buffett – Q&A
Mitchell Sneddon, Head of Funds at Rask and co-host of the Australian Investor Podcast, shares invaluable insights on investing. He explains the concept of franking credits and their benefits, demystifies ETF management fees, and discusses what annual fees look like on an $800,000 portfolio. For beginners, he highlights the need for financial advice and suggests practical first steps to start investing. The episode also dives into wisdom from investing legends Peter Lynch, Charlie Munger, and Warren Buffett, making it a must-listen for aspiring investors.
11 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 40min
Life insurance in Australia: What cover do you really need?
Dive into the essential world of life insurance in Australia. Discover the various types of cover, including life, TPD, and income protection, and learn why each is crucial. The hosts discuss the common ways Australians obtain insurance and the advantages of consulting financial advisers. Tune in for insights on child cover options, the claims process, and the typical mistakes people make. Find out how life insurance can protect your loved ones and ensure your financial security.
25 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 48min
Financial planning tips from a pro: What you need to know in your 30s
In this insightful discussion, financial planner Alex Luck, co-founder of Everest Wealth, shares valuable lessons for young professionals and families. He emphasizes the importance of building an emergency fund, highlighting that three months of expenses is just the start. Alex explains the magic of early investment and compounding returns, plus why property is still a smart long-term move. He also dives into the benefits of smart tax structuring and encourages listeners to remain open-minded in their financial journeys. A treasure trove of practical advice!
9 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 28min
Q&A: Salary sacrifice, first home super, and when to use credit cards
Tahli Cavagnino, a Senior Adviser at Rask Advice known for her expertise in financial planning and superannuation, joins to answer listener questions. She breaks down what occurs when super transitions into pension mode and explores tax-free investment strategies for kids. Tahli also clarifies salary sacrifice rules and details on the First Home Super Saver Scheme. Plus, she offers insight on when credit cards might benefit young investors, emphasizing the importance of understanding rewards and risks.
22 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 26min
AI investing made easy: The beginner’s guide
Unlock the secrets of AI investing with a practical framework. Discover four types of companies to target in high-growth sectors and learn how giants like Nvidia and Microsoft shape the AI landscape. Dive into key subsectors, from chips to cloud applications, and explore rising stars like Palantir and OpenAI. Understand how ETFs can minimize risk while maximizing exposure to AI innovations. Distinguish the hype from structural trends and ensure your portfolio is built on a solid core before embracing AI opportunities.
4 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 49min
5 ASX ETFs for a passive income portfolio
Tom Wickenden from Betashares, an expert in analyzing ETFs, joins to discuss the growing importance of income from ETFs. They explore strategies for generating passive income, particularly in a low interest rate environment. The conversation covers blending growth and income through ETFs and highlights specific funds like the BetaShares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF. Listeners learn about the dynamics of income-focused ETFs and the potential for royalty income, while also addressing the complexities of managing these investments for a prosperous portfolio.
35 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 51min
Offset vs Investing, Helping Family with Property, and Big Lessons at 40
Explore the pressing question of whether homeownership is necessary in Australia. Discover the re-contribution strategy and how it can impact your finances. Dive into the differences between holding ETFs directly and through share registries. Learn tips for buying investment properties while helping family. Gemma shares personal insights and valuable money lessons as she celebrates a milestone birthday, shedding light on evolving attitudes towards finance and homeownership.
