Australian Finance Podcast

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.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Last-minute Christmas gifts under $50 that people actually use

    In this festive episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask share practical, affordable and thoughtful last-minute Christmas gift ideas under fifty dollars. With more than 60 percent of Australians feeling financially stressed about buying presents this year, and almost one billion dollars of unwanted gifts heading to landfill, this guide focuses on useful, clutter-free options people will genuinely appreciate. Gemma and Owen cover • Why so many Aussies feel pressure around Christmas spending and how to avoid waste • Five affordable under-50 dollar gift ideas from Gemma, covering book lovers, coffee drinkers, sentimental types and the hard-to-buy-for • Owen’s budget-friendly picks for friends, family and colleagues • The honest chat on regifting, when it’s fine and when it’s not • How to avoid panic buying and choose meaningful gifts that won’t end up unused This quick episode is the perfect guide for anyone searching for last-minute Christmas gifts under 50 dollars that are thoughtful, practical and budget-conscious. If you like this Australian Finance Podcast episode, make sure to subscribe for weekly shows on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. Resources for this episode --Gemma's list-- ⁠Book stamp / embosser⁠ ⁠Electric beverage warmer (Amazon)⁠ ⁠Custom photo puzzle – Big W⁠ ⁠Custom photo puzzle – Officeworks⁠ ⁠Uno No Mercy⁠ ⁠Massage voucher (local business search)⁠ ⁠Visa/Mastercard gift cards⁠ --Owen's list-- ⁠Headband for earphones (Bluetooth sleep headband)⁠ ⁠T2 gift packs⁠ ⁠Le Creuset mug⁠ ⁠San Pietro Pinot Noir⁠ ⁠How They Get You by Chris Kohler⁠ ⁠The Money Reset by Gemma Mitchell⁠ 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

    23 min
  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    What if Vanguard goes bust? Last Q&A of 2025

    In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Gemma Mitchell unpack your questions on mortgages, investing, relationships and ETF risk. This week we dive into how to think about fixed versus variable interest rates, why couples so often clash over money, and what really happens if a fund manager, ETF provider or broker were to fail. We also take a closer look at geared ETFs and why some products are designed for super funds rather than personal portfolios, plus a practical explainer on how ETF ownership actually works behind the scenes. Owen and Gemma cover - How to think about fixing your mortgage rate versus staying variable, why people choose different options, and the real trade-offs involved rather than trying to “pick the perfect time” - Why money conversations with your partner so often turn into arguments, and practical ways to get on the same page without it becoming a values or control battle - What geared ETFs like GHHF are, why they’re often suggested for SMSFs, and the risks and tax reasons they’re usually not recommended for individuals outside super - What would happen if Vanguard were to go broke, how ETF structures protect investors, and whether spreading money across multiple ETF providers actually reduces risk - How brokerage platforms like Pearler hold your investments, what happens if a broker fails, and why your ETFs don’t simply disappear if a platform shuts down 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 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 #finance #asx Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    58 min
  3. 17 DEC

    5 Ways They Get You – with Chris Kohler

    In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with finance journalist and author Chris Kohler to discuss the systems designed to separate Australians from their money – and what you can do to protect yourself. They cover – The psychological tricks behind modern consumerism – Chris’s viral interest rate videos and their surprising impact – How businesses subtly extract more from your wallet – The hidden cost of convenience – Why loyalty isn’t always rewarding This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to take back control of their spending and think critically about modern money systems. If you like this Australian Finance Podcast episode, don’t forget to subscribe for weekly shows on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Topics Covered – Chris Kohler’s media and finance journey – Going viral: How humour made economics click – Behind the scenes of his creative process – What inspired his new book: “They Get You” – Psychological levers used by marketers – Loyalty programs: Who benefits most? – The dangerous normalisation of gambling – How data is used to drive spending – Subscription creep & the illusion of value – What you can do to fight back – Why it’s never too late to become financially aware – Chris’s advice to his younger self – How the “little guy” can regain control Resources for this episode: - Find Chris on Instagram - Find Chris on TikTok - Buy How They Get You - 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) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min
  4. 15 DEC

    The million-dollar formula: Small moves, big impact

    Today, your host Gemma is joined by Roxanne Calder — recruitment expert and author of the new book Earning Power. With 25 years of experience across Australia, the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong, Roxanne brings a wealth of insight into building careers and boosting income. Her latest book is packed with inspiring stories and practical strategies to help close the gender pay gap — but the lessons go well beyond that. No matter your gender, Roxanne’s “million-dollar formula” and career advice will give you tools to level up your earning power and take control of your financial future. In this episode we cover: – Why the gender pay gap could cost women over $1 million in a lifetime – Roxanne’s “million-dollar formula” for boosting earning power – Practical ways to advocate for yourself — from pay rises to career moves – Small financial and career decisions that create long-term impact – The role recruitment agencies can play in your career journey – Roxanne’s personal money lessons and one simple step you can take today to start building your earning power Resources for this episode Connect with Roxanne Buy Earning Power 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

    38 min
  5. 11 DEC

    10 money hacks to level up your life in 2024 [Throwback]

    Ready to level up your financial life? Kate Campbell & Mitchell Sneddon share 10 different money hacks to help you maximise your finances in 2024. Remember - the small changes you make add up over time, so don’t discount those small actions you take. 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

    37 min
  6. 10 DEC

    How (& why) insurance works: real-life claims with Phil Thompson

    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

    40 min
  7. 8 DEC

    How Owen Rask & Alex Luck *actually* invest [Adviser Q&A]

    In this Australian Finance Podcast episode, Owen Rask is joined by Alex Luck, founder of Everest Wealth Group, to answer your money questions. Owen’s questions: – Where are you personally invested? – What’s the most recent thing you’ve done with your money? Listener questions: – Our 19-year-old is saving for a home — should he buy an investment property while living at home and miss the First Home Buyer Grant? – Is salary sacrificing for company shares worth the tax benefit, given the concentration risk? – I’ll need to sell $150k of my $200k portfolio in 12 months to fund a house build — should I sell now or later? (CGT not an issue.) – I’m single and plan to leave my super to my parents and sibling — any issues? – I’m a uni student investing $100 a month — where should I start for long- and short-term investing (thinking gold or S&P 500 ETFs)? – I’m 20, finishing uni soon with $40k in ETFs and $10k cash — should I sell some investments to enter the property market sooner, or let them compound? Resources for this episode Get financial advice 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

    46 min
  8. 4 DEC

    Super, saving like a boomer and exit-rentvesting dilemmas – Q&A

    In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Gemma Mitchell dive into your questions on saving, investing, brokers, kids’ money and planning your next big property move. This week we unpack whether a high-yield savings account still stacks up against investing, how to think about using multiple brokers, and what to consider when choosing a provider to invest for your kids. We also tackle a classic rentvesting question from someone with five investment properties who now wants to buy their own home, plus a quick explainer on what really happens to your HECS-HELP debt when you pass away. Topics covered – Whether you should follow your parents’ advice to save in a high-yield account or invest once you’ve built a three-month emergency buffer – How compounding, inflation and time horizons shape the save or invest decision – The pros and cons of having core and satellite portfolios across two brokers, and when it makes sense to merge – What to think about when investing for children, including fees, tax rules and whether Australian Unity or investment bonds suit your goals – A simple framework for exiting rentvesting and transitioning into your own home, even when you’re juggling multiple properties – What actually happens to your HECS-HELP balance when you die, and how the ATO handles unpaid student debt 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 Grant Hackett Episode on Bonds Tax Structure Rask Guide 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

    45 min

Trailer

4.7
out of 5
722 Ratings

About

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.

More From Rask

You Might Also Like