My Accounting Advantage

Mai Harris
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My Accounting Advantage is a practical, no‑fluff podcast for business owners, professionals, and property investors who want to make smarter financial decisions with confidence. Hosted by Mai Harris, Principal Accountant and business advisor with over 25 years of real‑world experience, the podcast breaks down accounting, tax, superannuation, and cash‑flow strategies in plain English without the jargon, overwhelm, or “one‑size‑fits‑all” advice. IG: www.instagram.com/the_maiharris/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587008353108 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mai-harris-4a4698375/ Web: www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au/

  1. 5d ago

    Your Life Gets Bigger When Your Goals Do

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback Many people spend years building wealth, growing a business, and chasing financial freedom without ever stopping to ask a simple question: What is it all for? In this episode, Mai and Lee explore the connection between wealth, purpose, and goal setting. Drawing on conversations with business owners, investors, and families, Mai explains why financial success is difficult to achieve, let alone measure, if you don't have clarity around what you actually want from life. The discussion focuses on setting meaningful goals, creating a vision for the future, and understanding how financial decisions should support the life you want to live. Whether your goal is early retirement, more freedom, more family time, or building a business you love, Mai shares a practical framework to help turn ideas into action. In this episode, Mai talks about: Why building wealth without a clear purpose often leads to frustrationThe importance of understanding what financial freedom means to youWhy most people struggle to define their goalsHow lack of clarity can impact financial planning and wealth creationA simple framework for setting meaningful personal and financial goalsWhy dreaming big is an important first step in the planning processThe difference between wishes, preferences, and measurable goalsHow attaching emotion and purpose to your goals increases commitmentWhy time, freedom, and choice are often more valuable than money itselfThe role accountants, financial planners, and mortgage brokers play in helping achieve long-term goalsHow small financial decisions today can create greater choices in the futureThis episode is a reminder that financial success isn't about accumulating wealth for the sake of it. It's about creating a life that aligns with your values, gives you choices, and allows you to spend your time in ways that matter most to you. If you'd like help building a financial strategy that supports your personal goals, reach out to our team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  2. Jul 22

    Stop Being The Bottleneck

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback In this episode, Mai explores one of the most common issues she sees when working with business owners: becoming the bottleneck in your own business. From delayed invoicing and cash flow problems to decision fatigue and overwhelmed teams, Mai explains how business owners can unintentionally slow down growth by trying to control every decision and task themselves. The discussion focuses on recognising the signs that you're the bottleneck, creating systems that allow your team to take ownership, and building a business that can operate successfully without relying on you for every answer. In this episode, Mai talks about: The warning signs that you're becoming the bottleneck in your businessWhy leadership is about making yourself less needed over timeThe importance of decision-making systems for your teamMai's 1-3-1 framework for solving problems and encouraging independent thinkingHow to identify and eliminate low-value tasks from your workloadUnderstanding the Growth Ladder and where your time should be spent as a business ownerWhy commitment lists are more effective than traditional position descriptionsThe Delegation Ladder and the four steps to delegating successfullyHow documenting systems and processes creates consistency and accountabilityThe connection between business systems and business saleabilityThis episode is a reminder that successful businesses are built on systems, not individuals. The more decisions, knowledge and processes that live only in your head, the harder it becomes for your business to grow. By creating clear systems, empowering your team, and letting go of low-value tasks, you can free yourself to focus on leadership and long-term growth. If you're feeling stuck in the day-to-day operations of your business and want help improving your systems, processes, and ultimately your profitability, reach out to our team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  3. Jul 16

    Franking Credits Turn Company Tax Into Personal Tax Savings

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback Franking credits are one of the most valuable tax benefits available to business owners operating through a company structure. In this episode, Mai breaks down what a franking account is, how franking credits are created, and why they can play a powerful role in building and protecting long-term wealth. The conversation also explores some of the most common business and investment structures used by Australians. With proposed changes to the taxation of family trusts on the horizon, understanding how your structure works, and whether it's still the right fit, is more important than ever. Mai explains the practical reasons behind each structure, how profits can be moved and protected, and why a proactive review today could save significant tax and complexity in the future. In this episode, Mai talks about: What franking credits are and how they are createdWhy company tax is not always "lost" when paid to the ATOHow franked dividends can help reduce overall tax outcomesThe differences between trading companies, holding companies and bucket companiesWhy business owners use dividend strategies to move profits between entitiesThe proposed changes to family trust taxation and what they could mean for business ownersHow franking credits can improve cash flow and tax planning opportunitiesWhy reviewing your business structure regularly is essential as tax laws evolveIf you'd like help reviewing your business structure, understanding franking credits, or planning for upcoming tax changes, reach out to our team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  4. Jul 8

    Fund Your Future Freedom

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback Most people think retirement is something to worry about later. The problem is that later arrives much faster than expected. In this episode, Mai Harris is joined by financial planner Nicholle Shepherd to discuss why building wealth and planning for retirement should start much earlier. Together, they explore the small financial habits that can have a significant impact over time, and why creating financial freedom isn't about reaching a certain age: It's about having choices. The conversation covers the importance of understanding your current financial position, making the most of superannuation, and creating a strategy that aligns your long-term goals with your tax and wealth-building opportunities. Whether you're in your 20s, raising a family, or starting to think seriously about retirement, this episode highlights the value of planning early and seeking advice before time becomes your biggest obstacle. In this episode, Mai and Nicholle talk about: The common reasons people leave retirement planning too lateThe importance of building strong financial habits earlyInvestment options beyond property, including shares, ETFs and managed investmentsWhy your investment strategy should reflect your personal goals and risk appetiteHow much money you may need in retirement and why the answer is different for everyonePractical ways to understand your living expenses and future income needsThe benefits of aligning tax planning and financial planningWhy seeking advice early creates more opportunities and choices later in lifeThis episode is a reminder that financial freedom doesn't happen by accident. The earlier you start planning, the more options you'll have when it comes time to decide how you want to spend your future. If you'd like help aligning your tax strategy, investments and long-term wealth goals, reach out to our team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  5. Jul 1

    Borrowing After The Budget Shift

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback Everything you thought you knew about borrowing has just changed. In this timely episode, Mai unpacks one of the biggest shifts currently impacting property investors: what borrowing actually looks like now under the new lending rules. Following the recent Federal Budget announcements, the landscape has changed almost overnight. Restrictions on negative gearing for existing properties and changes to how banks assess borrowing capacity are already flowing through to lenders, and the impact is immediate. But this episode isn’t about panic. It’s about understanding what’s changed and how to adjust your strategy moving forward. Joined by in-house mortgage broker Luke Talbot, the conversation brings together both tax and lending expertise to unpack how these changes are playing out in the real world. In this episode, Mai and Luke talk about: The removal of negative gearing on existing properties and why this is more than just a tax changeHow borrowing capacity is already dropping by 12–17% (and in some cases closer to 20%)Why pre-approvals based on old rules may no longer applyThe difference in treatment between new builds and established propertiesWhy getting your structure right upfront (individual, trust, SMSF) is now criticalThe risks of having your accountant and broker not aligned on strategyHow commercial property is emerging as an alternative investment strategyHow equity can still be leveraged to support new lending strategiesWhy family and joint investment strategies are becoming more relevant in this environmentThis episode is a reminder that while borrowing has become more complex, the opportunity to build wealth hasn’t disappeared. It just requires a more considered approach.  Reach out to the team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au if you’re thinking about buying, investing, or would like to review your current position. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  6. Jun 25

    Three Bank Accounts Can Keep Your Tax Bills Under Control

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback With multiple obligations hitting at different times—BAS, PAYG instalments, payroll tax, super, and annual income tax—it can feel like money is constantly leaving your account. This episode cuts through that confusion and explains why it often comes down to a lack of structure, visibility, and preparation. Mai walks through how the tax system actually works, including the difference between your income tax account and your activity statement account, and why PAYG instalments often catch business owners off guard. By understanding how these obligations are calculated and when they fall due, the pressure quickly becomes more manageable. The episode also focuses on practical systems business owners can implement immediately to stay in control, without the stress of scrambling for cash each quarter. In this episode, Mai talks about: The difference between your income tax account and activity statement accountHow PAYG instalments work as a prepayment of your annual tax liabilityThe importance of setting up a dedicated tax account to manage obligationsHow to structure three key accounts: trading, tax, and cash reservesWhy setting aside GST, company tax and super reserves is criticalHow a simple weekly or recurring transfer system can remove end-of-quarter stressWhy reviewing your profit and loss regularly improves visibility and controlThis episode is a reminder that paying tax is often a sign your business is performing, but without the right systems in place, it can quickly feel overwhelming.  If you’d like help setting this up for your business or understanding your tax obligations, reach out to our team at www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  7. Jun 17

    Your Mortgage Is Not A Monster

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback In this episode, Mai and Lee unpack a powerful mindset shift that’s impacting more business owners and homeowners than ever before, how we think about debt, and specifically, our mortgage. With rising costs and business pressures, many Australians are feeling the weight of their loans, but this episode challenges whether that stress is actually justified. Using a real client case study, Mai breaks down how small shifts in perspective can completely change financial confidence, decision-making, and even business performance. The episode also explores how comparing the cost of debt to the true cost of living without it can provide much-needed clarity. In this episode, Mai talks about: The importance of reframing your mortgage from a burden to a wealth-building toolHow to compare the true cost of debt versus renting or living without owning propertyHow offset accounts work and how they reduce interest while maintaining flexibilityWhy mindset plays a critical role in financial decision-making and performanceUsing equity in your home to debt-finance investment opportunitiesIf you’d like help understanding how your current debt structure is working for or against you, reach out to our team or speak with your accountant for tailored advice. You can also submit questions or topic ideas via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

  8. Jun 10

    Tax Saved Is Not Money Made

    Ask Mai & Send Feedback In this episode, Mai and Lee break down one of the most common misconceptions at tax time:  “If I spend money, I’ll get it all back in tax.” With the end of financial year approaching, many business owners and individuals fall into the same trap. That is, making rushed purchases purely for a deduction, without considering the actual return. This episode cuts through that thinking. Mai unpacks why tax deductions don’t work the way most people assume, and why the real goal isn’t to reduce tax at all costs. It’s to make financially sound decisions that deliver a return. From understanding your effective tax rate to making strategic investment decisions, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating EOFY planning. In this episode, Mai talks about: How your notional (average) tax rate determines what you actually get backThe EOFY “spending frenzy” mindsetThe $20,000 instant asset write-off threshold and when it appliesWhy buying assets you don’t need destroys cash flow and ROIA smarter alternative: using super contributions to reduce tax and build long-term wealthWhat deductions are most commonly missed (travel, WFH, self-education and more)Why record-keeping is critical to substantiating claimsSpending money for the sake of a deduction can leave you worse off. Mai encourages you to do a sense-check before any EOFY decision: “Would I do this on 1 July?” If you're unsure what EOFY strategies actually make sense for your situation, reach out to Mai on Instagram at the_maiharris or submit your questions via the Ask Mai link at the top of the show notes. Learn more about My Accounting Advantage Disclaimer The advice contained in this presentation is general in nature only and should not be acted on without first seeking professional advice. Your personal circumstances have not been taken into account, and you should consider the appropriateness of the advice to your individual needs.

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About

My Accounting Advantage is a practical, no‑fluff podcast for business owners, professionals, and property investors who want to make smarter financial decisions with confidence. Hosted by Mai Harris, Principal Accountant and business advisor with over 25 years of real‑world experience, the podcast breaks down accounting, tax, superannuation, and cash‑flow strategies in plain English without the jargon, overwhelm, or “one‑size‑fits‑all” advice. IG: www.instagram.com/the_maiharris/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587008353108 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mai-harris-4a4698375/ Web: www.myaccountingadvantage.com.au/

Information

  • Creator
    Mai Harris
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 My Accounting Advantage
  • Show Website
    My Accounting Advantage