Financial Autonomy
Business & Economics Podcasts
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.
Location:
United States
Description:
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.
Language:
English
Episodes
Can You Really Retire Early? Let's Find Out
2/17/2026
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about what to consider before retiring early
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Duration:00:34:57
Should You Be Buying Precious Metals?
2/10/2026
Gold rose 74% last year and silver surged 185%, but do those eye-catching returns actually justify investing in precious metals? In this episode, we explore what's driving current market anxiety, the case for and against gold as a safe haven, and whether it truly protects against inflation. We break down diversification benefits, long-term return realities, behavioural risks, and the pros and cons of physical gold, ETFs, and mining shares—before answering the real question: do precious metals belong in a disciplined investment portfolio, and if so, how much?
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General advice disclaimer
Duration:00:15:25
Crypto & Digital Assets 101: Understanding the Basics
2/3/2026
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to James Brannan from BlockByte Capital to explain the basics of cryptocurrencies and digital assets.
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Duration:00:30:57
How to Retire Earlier: The 5 Levers Australians Can Pull
1/27/2026
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.
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General advice disclaimer
Duration:00:09:49
9 Financial Resolutions to Kickstart Your 2026
1/20/2026
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!
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Duration:00:27:56
The 10 Year Wealth test: Are You on Track for 2036?
1/13/2026
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.
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General advice disclaimer
Duration:00:08:37
Wealth Builder - From Social Anxiety to Million-Dollar Marketer
1/6/2026
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.
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Duration:00:27:15
When Do We Sell Our Investment Properties — Retirement Edition
1/3/2026
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.
Duration:00:13:18
Accelerating Wealth Building with Debt
12/23/2025
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about using debt to build wealth.
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Duration:00:35:01
The Biggest Financial Mistake People Make in Their 40s and 50s
12/16/2025
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.
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Duration:00:13:06
How to grow a successful small business?
12/9/2025
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Ange Belot from Cheeky Kookaburra on starting and growing a successful small business.
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Duration:00:36:11
The Source of the Next Market Crash? - What are Private Equity and Private Credit
12/2/2025
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.
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Duration:00:13:50
Are we in an AI bubble?
11/25/2025
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Financial Autonomy host Paul Benson about whether we are currently in an AI bubble.
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Duration:00:39:11
The Hidden Cost of Every Decision: Understanding Opportunity Cost
11/18/2025
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.
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Duration:00:09:19
Testamentary Trusts - Novum Law
11/11/2025
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.
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Duration:00:34:03
How To Get $100k Per Year In Retirement - Tax Free
11/4/2025
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.
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Duration:00:08:05
8 Steps to Building Financial Security in your 30s
10/28/2025
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to Guidance team member Brenden Butler about ways to build financial security in your thirties.
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Duration:00:36:46
Should I convert my Super to a Pension?
10/21/2025
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.
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General advice disclaimer
Duration:00:09:42
Estate Planning Basics
10/14/2025
This week on the Wealth Builder podcast Nick talks to solicitors Sheredyn Legg and Stephen Fries about the basics of estate planning.
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Duration:00:45:06
The Real Deal on Rates and Inflation
10/7/2025
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.
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Duration:00:06:51