The Grass is Greener

Financial stress doesn't always come from making mistakes. Sometimes life changes, rising costs, family responsibilities, or unexpected events can leave us feeling like we're no longer moving forward. This week, Tim sits down with financial adviser, educator, and author Gemma Mitchell to discuss her book The Money Reset and why getting back to basics can be the key to regaining confidence...

The Federal Budget has sparked plenty of discussion about capital gains tax and small business. In this episode, Tim steps away from the headlines and focuses on the rules that exist today, including the four Small Business CGT Concessions and why they matter for business owners planning their eventual exit or retirement. Australian Tax Office - Small Business CGT Concessions https://bit.ly/4x86lN...

Financial adviser and author James Wrigley joins Tim to discuss why retirement planning is about more than money. From life goals and purpose to superannuation, investing and navigating uncertainty, this conversation explores what it really means to become “Retire Life Ready.” James also discusses the overwhelming response to his book launch, the growth of financial education online, and why clear...

In this episode, Tim breaks down the major proposed measures from the latest Federal Budget and explains what they could mean for everyday Australians, investors, business owners and families — while reinforcing one critical point: these are proposals only and not yet law. The discussion covers immediate wins for employees, including the proposed $1,000 instant tax deduction for work-related expen...

In this episode, we unpack why a properly set up MyGov account is far more than just another government login — it’s a vital tool for managing tax, Medicare, Centrelink, security, and major life events. Joined by Justin Bott (Community Information Officer Services Australia), we explore how Australians can use MyGov to stay organised, protect themselves from scams, support ageing parents, and simp...

In this episode of The Grass is Greener, Tim welcomes Evguenia Rutkowski, a passionate financial adviser specialising in retirement and pre-retirement planning. Evguenia shares her insights on superannuation strategies, especially for women navigating financial transitions like divorce or late-career planning. Key Topics Covered: - Why superannuation matters—especially for women - Salary sacrifice...

In this short but powerful episode, we dive into the critical topic of Binding Death Nominations (BDBN) and why they matter for your superannuation. Unlike your will, your super doesn’t automatically go to your chosen beneficiaries unless you’ve completed a valid BDBN. Learn how to take control, avoid trustee discretion, and ensure your loved ones receive what you intend. What You’ll Learn: -What...

In this heartfelt episode, Helen Nolan (CEO) shares the origin and impact of the Shane Warne Legacy, a foundation launched in honour of the late cricket legend. Helen recounts how the foundation began with a dream and quickly grew into Australia’s largest health screening event. We discussed: - How Shane’s passing inspired a movement for free health checks across Australia. - The foundation’s part...

In this episode, we chat to Jenny Pearse (Marketing Consultant) and Nadia Docker (Compliance Expert) - to unpack what really matters when choosing a Financial Adviser. From communication style and credentials to compliance, scams, and digital presence, this conversation is packed with practical tips and real-world insights. What We Cover: ✅ What to look for in a financial advisor (and what to avo...

In this episode, Vanguard's Senior Investment Specialist, Libby Newman returns to share her deep expertise in investments, index funds, and Vanguard’s long-term philosophy. She explains how index funds offer broad market exposure and why they’re a smart starting point for investors. Libby also breaks down the difference between ETFs and managed funds, emphasising that (Within Vanguard Funds) b...

In this solo episode of The Grass is Greener, host Tim Henry dives into the essentials of superannuation and why it's time to take charge of your financial future. From recent controversies involving Shield and First Guardian to practical steps for checking your super via myGov, Tim breaks down the myths, the mechanics, and the must-dos. What you'll learn: - Why superannuation is more secu...

In this episode, we sit down with Suzanne Alexander, founder of Mindful Finances, to explore the deep connection between money, emotions, and personal values. Suzanne shares her journey from farm life to financial advisor and how her passion for understanding the psychology of money led her to redefine wealth. We unpack how true wealth is more than just numbers — it’s about alignment, choice, and...

In this episode, we sit down with Lucy Percy, estate planning lawyer and founder of Head and Heart Estate Planning, to explore the powerful benefits of a Testamentary Trust Willand how it differs from a standard Will. Lucy breaks down the key advantages of Testamentary Trusts, including: - Tax effectiveness for beneficiaries, especially minors - Asset protection from creditors, divorce, and financ...

The process of divorce can be a challenging one, of course this differs for everyone. What are the specific things that confront people (especially women) when they start to divorce? How do you move forward positively and with more confidence despite undertaking this sometimes time arduous process. Heidi Schwegler from AFS Financial and Jordan Vaka from Planning Solo discuss these challenges and p...

Do you have any form of Life Insurance? If you do, how does it align with your current stage of life? Our needs for Life insurance evolve as we move through different stages. Serena West is a Financial Adviser with MBS insurance and comes on to discuss the various types of Life Insurance and how the need for these may change throughout your life. We discussed these needs for: Young Singles / Coupl...

As we watch our parents age, it becomes clear that ageing is a natural part of life, bringing inevitable changes. While we can’t control every aspect, we can take proactive steps to support them with a well-structured plan that aligns with their vision for ageing gracefully. Embracing this proactive approach provides an increased confidence and a sense of assurance. Moreover, it provides peace of...

Each year Futurity Investment Group publishes a comprehensive report on the Cost of Education across Australia. The report not only survey's parents about their spending behaviour but also how they are feeling how the costs and managed within their own situation. Sarah McAdie is the Executive GM at Futurity. Sarah discusses the 2025 report, including the key numbers and emerging trends. Futuri...

We all have many life & family goals. Some of these are out on the mid-to-long term horizon. Have you considered how you will fund these goals? Refinancing via your mortgage is a very solid option. Michael Lawes from Circle Finance Group talks us through the opportunities presented by Refinancing and the importance of being proactive with your planning! Circle Finance Group https://circlefg.co...

In this episode, Tim chats to Kim Payne about the concept of "Vision" and its profound impact on our lives. Kim discusses how having a strong and connected vision can inspire and motivate individuals, while the absence of a clear vision can lead to feelings of uncertainty. Kim reflects on her own experiences and interactions with her own clients with real life examples of the positive im...

What changes are you wanting to make in your life in 2025? Need some inspiration to get started? At this time of year, many of us reflect on our own fitness or levels of physical activity and set intentions for the year ahead. Jack Geddes from Linked Training and Nutrition discusses the importance of getting those new small habits to stick as a key element to making big changes. Linked Training &a...

On 12 September 2024 the Government responded to the Aged Care Taskforce and introduced the Aged Care Bill 2024 into Parliament. The aged care reforms will make significant changes to the cost of residential aged care and home care from 1 July 2025. Shaun Ganguly is the founder of Aged Care Financial Planning specialising in Aged Care Financial Advice. Shaun discusses the new rules and highlights...

Do you have a Gen Z child (or adult)? It is likely that Superannuation will be a vital and large component of their wealth in 30,40,50 years' time. However, there is a very large segment of Gen Z that haven't engaged with their Super at all. Financial adviser Dawn Thomas is currently undertaking a PhD on this topic. Specifically, the critical role that parents play in shaping their children's pers...

Are you feeling financially fatigued? These past few years have been financially stressful. In particular, dealing with skyrocking prices for general living needs, plus rental and mortgage rate increases. Karen Eley from Women Talking Finance provides valuable insights into how you can equip yourself to deal with financial stress. Karen discusses the stressor responses that she observes in these s...

What does retirement look like, once you are on the other side of your working life? Australia's market leading Annuity provider - Challenger Limited wanted to better understand what makes a happy retirement. In 2024, it undertook consumer research amongst its own customers and also the wider public and has summarised these findings in the "Challenger Retirement Happiness Index" Carly O'Keefe (GM...

Elevating your life doesn't just happen - it comes from within. You are the leader of your own life and it starts with taking action! Executive Life coach Shannah Kennedy and former Sportsgirl CEO Colleen Callander present ELEVATE - the groundbreaking book that empowers you to rise from ordinary to extraordinary one step at a time. Tim chats to Shannah and Colleen about their brand new book EL...