Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Making Cents
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Use the bank's money to pay off your mortgage? You bet. | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:08:10 | |
A quick and dirty update of mortgage tricks to get rid of the debt faster. Including using the bank's money, instead of yours! Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about it, replayed here with permission. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “Are those ‘mortgage-free in five years’ hacks for real?” Mailbag episode | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:19:58 | |
Ever wondered whether those “mortgage-free in five years” hacks you see online are real, or just clever marketing? With so many mortgage “shortcuts” floating around social media, it’s hard to know what actually works, especially in New Zealand’s property market. In this Ask the Experts episode, we break down the truth behind mortgage-freedom shortcuts: the strategies that genuinely speed up your repayment timeline, the red flags to watch for, and the behavioural traps that can cost you thousands. Financial coach Shelley Palman from EnableMe has tricks from smart mortgage structures like offset and revolving credit, to how much extra principal you actually need to pay to shave years (and hundreds of thousands of dollars) off your loan. We cover: • which “mortgage-free fast” claims are legitimate • the tactics that work for ordinary Kiwi households • common mortgage mistakes that slow you down • how to avoid clickbait mortgage hacks • mindset strategies to stay motivated on a long payoff plan If you’re trying to pay off your mortgage faster, avoid bad mortgage advice, or understand how to structure your home loan for long-term financial freedom, this episode will give you the clarity you need. Don't forget, if you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How nine years in a tiny home bought freedom | 07 Dec 2025 | 00:36:26 | |
If you’ve ever wondered whether living in a tiny home can genuinely change your life, this is a story worth hearing. After nearly nine years in her tiny house, Kasia Morrison has rebuilt her entire life from the ground up - financially, personally, and professionally. Downsizing didn’t just cut her cost of living. It gave her the freedom to start over when everything else collapsed: her marriage, her business, and the future she thought she was building. But tiny-home living comes with financial fish hooks too, from higher-interest loans, to the reality that a tiny house doesn’t behave like a traditional property when it comes to long-term wealth. In this episode, we dig into how to make tiny-home life work in the real world: the strategy you need, the money plan that sits beneath it, and the mindset shifts that help you rebuild after a major life change. Kasia shares what surprised her about living tiny, how it changed her definition of success, and why she’s committed to this lifestyle for the long haul. Whether you’re dreaming about downsizing, craving more financial freedom, or standing at the bottom of your own “start again” moment, this conversation shows what’s possible when you strip life back to the essentials. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “How to find an affordable first home in an expensive city - maybe with a llama?” Mailbag episode | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:17:39 | |
If property prices are doing your head in and you’re starting to wonder whether buying a first home is even possible anymore, it’s time to figure out what’s actually happening. A listener from Wellington writes in to say they love their city, they want stability for their kids, but every time they look at the market, it feels completely out of reach. In this Ask the Experts episode, Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz helps me dig into what’s actually happening in the New Zealand property market right now, whether this is a good time to buy, and how to figure out if you’re personally ready to take the leap. We also break down how to research good suburbs, how to spot affordable pockets in an expensive city, and which property data actually matters when you’re trying to make a smart decision. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Angry at credit card debt? Here’s how to fight back, with Sasha Lockley from Money Sweetspot | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:39:27 | |
Plenty of us get angry about the money world being unfair. But few people get angry enough to actually change something. Sasha Lockley did. Sasha started Money Sweetspot because, in her own words, she was furious. Furious that so many ordinary New Zealanders were working hard, making tough decisions, and still drowning in debt. In this episode of Making Cents, we dig into the emotional and practical realities of debt in New Zealand. We talk about why people get trapped, what actually works to pay down loans faster, what doesn’t, and how shame, guilt, and overwhelm derail the plans you make. We also look beyond the individual level. Because while there are things we can control in our own financial lives, there are also parts of the debt system that need fixing, and Sasha has a front-row seat to what needs to change. In this episode we cover: - Why Sasha got angry enough to start Money Sweetspot - What she’s learned from thousands of real NZ debt stories - The loan traps catching ordinary Kiwis every day - The worst debt myths doing the rounds online - What actually works when you’re trying to pay off the credit card faster - Why shame and avoidance make debt worse, and how to break that cycle - Simple first steps if you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start - What needs to change at a system level to stop this happening to so many people If you’ve ever felt stuck, ashamed, or overwhelmed by debt, this conversation will help you understand what’s really going on, and what you can realistically do next. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to take the first steps into investing | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:08:32 | |
Become an investor with less stress, and no finance degree. Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about how to get out of your own way if you've been wanting to dip a toe into the sharemarket. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “Single mum at 46, how do I avoid poverty at 70?” Mailbag episode | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:19:55 | |
If you’ve pushed money aside for years, only to wake up in your mid-40s with a toddler, a tiny KiwiSaver balance, and a creeping fear about what life looks like at 70… where do you even begin? That’s the heart of today’s Ask the Experts letter. A single mum at 46 is saving just a few dollars a week, working part-time, and terrified that she’s already run out of time to build any kind of financial safety. So what are the options when you’re starting late, starting small, or starting over?
Shelley Palman from EnableMe is in the hot seat to map out the options, the trade-offs, and the first practical steps to take when you’re overwhelmed but determined. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| I cut 8 years off my mortgage with $20 - here's how | 23 Nov 2025 | 00:19:58 | |
A simple $20 tweak can dramatically cut down the life of your mortgage, so now it’s time to talk about the strategy I used to shave eight years off mine. With just a small repayment, years disappeared. So here’s how, and why, it works. I’ve used my experience as a financial journalist to change my money, so get an inside look at my finances, then why extra repayments are so powerful in the early years of a home loan, how interest is actually structured, and the practical ways you can use that to get mortgage-free faster to make it work for you. Time to talk about the main mortgage repayment strategies available in New Zealand, and how to figure out which one works for your lifestyle and spending habits. Plus: how to automate extra payments, how to use falling interest rates to your advantage, why fortnightly repayments sneak in an extra payment each year, and when to throw windfalls at the loan for maximum impact. If you’re trying to get ahead on your mortgage without sacrificing your entire life to it, this episode gives you the simple tactics that make the biggest difference. Tune in for a realistic, NZ-specific breakdown of what actually works, and how small changes can save you years. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Smart, simple, sharemarket investing, get your money strategy ready for 2026. WEBINAR REPLAY | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:56:06 | |
Cash funds, bonds, index funds, shares… what’s the difference, and how do you figure out which mix is right for you? If you want to invest but have felt confused by the options, this is the live session for you. In this live edition of the Making Cents podcast, Frances Cook is joined by some of New Zealand’s top investing experts to break down simple, smart sharemarket strategies to help you get your money ready for 2026. We cover: The real differences between cash funds, bonds, and shares How to figure out what type of investment suits your goals What to look for (and avoid) when comparing funds How to see what’s actually inside your investments Why fees matter more than you think, and how to check yours It’s everything you need to start investing with confidence, no spreadsheets, no jargon, just smart strategies that actually work. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| "My kids want me to get a reverse mortgage, will it ruin their inheritance?” Mailbag episode | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:16:42 | |
You’ve worked your whole life to pay off the mortgage. The house is finally yours. But somehow, the money worries haven’t gone away. In this Making Cents mailbag episode, a listener in their 70s writes in after becoming mortgage-free, yet still feeling anxious every time they spend a dollar. Living on the pension with little savings, they want to enjoy retirement but are scared of running out of money. Their children think a reverse mortgage could be the answer, but will unlocking home equity today destroy their inheritance tomorrow? Frances Cook talks to Will White, General Manager of Retail & Reverse Mortgages at Heartland Bank, about how modern reverse mortgages in New Zealand actually work, what protections exist, and how to decide whether using your home equity makes sense. They cover the emotional side too, including the guilt many retirees feel about spending their own money, and how to find balance between financial security and quality of life. If you’ve ever wondered how to free up cash in retirement, whether a reverse mortgage is safe, or how to enjoy your hard-earned home without risking the kids’ inheritance, this episode breaks it all down. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Chef Alice Taylor on budget recipes that actually work: $1.50 loaf, 20c noodles | 16 Nov 2025 | 00:43:59 | |
Supermarket total making your stomach drop? You’re not imagining it, food prices have become one of the biggest pain points of the cost-of-living crisis. In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook sits down with chef Alice Taylor, creator of the Cheap and Realistic Eats Cookbook (available at https://www.alicetayloreats.com) to talk about how to eat well without overspending. From $1.50 loaves of bread and 20 cent noodles, to clever ingredient swaps that make baking cheaper and better, Alice shares practical, tested ways to feed a family for less. She explains how to:
This is real-world advice for anyone trying to stretch a grocery budget without sacrificing flavour or enjoyment. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Boost your savings without living a boring life | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:06:36 | |
Create a savings buffer without that nagging feeling of deprivation. Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to talk about the savings tips that help you build a better money life, without cutting everything fun. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “We were gifted $100K, how do we not blow it?” Mailbag episode | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:15:37 | |
A $100,000 gift should feel like freedom, so why does it come with so much pressure? In this Making Cents mailbag episode, a listener writes in after being gifted $100K from family. They’ve got a big mortgage, no savings, and a long wish-list that includes home repairs, maternity leave, and some breathing room in the budget. The question: how do you use a windfall like this without wasting it? Frances Cook talks to Katie Wesney, head strategic coach at EnableMe, about how to turn a one-off gift into long-term financial security. They unpack how to prioritise between paying down the mortgage, building an emergency fund, and improving your home, plus smart ways to use a revolving credit account to keep flexibility while cutting interest. If you’ve ever wondered what to do after receiving a cash gift, inheritance, or bonus, this episode will show you how to make every dollar count, avoid the “easy come, easy go” trap, and set yourself up for the future. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| KiwiSaver weapons investing is up 40% - how to invest ethically and still make money, with Mindful Money’s Barry Coates | 09 Nov 2025 | 01:01:17 | |
One of the biggest tools you’ve got for creating change is already in your pocket - your KiwiSaver. It quietly funds companies, industries, and ideas every single day. And like it or not, where that money goes can be more powerful than voting or any $5 consumer boycott. The problem? Most of us have no idea what we’re actually investing in. Weapons investing is up 40 per cent. Fossil fuels are on the rise. And some of the world’s biggest corporations are still getting a slice of your retirement savings. In this episode, financial journalist Frances Cook talks to Barry Coates from Mindful Money about how to find out exactly where your KiwiSaver cash is going, and how to shift it somewhere better. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock It’s easier than you think, it doesn’t hurt your returns, and it could be your most powerful vote yet. Because you really can get rich without selling your soul. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Is the 0.01% rule the secret to guilt-free spending? | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:17:16 | |
Fast Money with Jim Mora on Sunday Morning with RNZ. Does the 0.01% rule help us spend in a smarter way? And if you really hate maths, does the 24-hour rule, the cost per use rule, or the fun budget work better? Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “I can’t buy a house, is commercial property a better investment?” Mailbag episode | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:17:00 | |
What if the smartest way to get into property investing isn’t a house at all? That’s the question in this week’s Making Cents mailbag, from a listener who wants to invest but feels locked out of the residential market. With house prices still sky-high in many areas, this listener asks if commercial property could be the secret path to becoming an investor, or if it’s just a riskier bet in disguise. Frances Cook talks to Vanessa Williams from http://Realestate.co.nz about what first-time investors need to know before diving into commercial property. They break down how the commercial property market compares to residential, what really drives returns and risk, and why things like tenant quality, lease length, and economic trends matter far more than location or school zones. This episode shows you how commercial property investing works in New Zealand, what it costs to get started, and whether it could actually be your next move. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Overcoming a $100k fear of failure, with Ecoya CEO Claire Barnes | 02 Nov 2025 | 00:51:25 | |
When Ecoya CEO Claire Barnes was 23, she lost $100,000 of her dad’s life insurance money on a failed business. The experience left her with a fear of failure so strong it followed her for nearly two decades, even as she rose to lead one of New Zealand’s most successful lifestyle brands. In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook talks to Claire about what it takes to rebuild after financial loss, how to turn failure into a learning curve, and why she now believes fear is proof you’re on the right path. Claire shares the hard-won lessons behind her career; from driving boxes of candles around the country, to running Ecoya, and now launching Bowie, an at-home microneedling and skincare startup she funded after selling her family home. This conversation covers:
Even after a $100k setback, you can still build back stronger. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Smart side hustle strategies for when work isn't paying enough | 30 Oct 2025 | 00:07:19 | |
If you're looking to earn more money on the side, here's the guide to doing it more successfully. Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to explain how to find a good side hustle, and do it without tanking your finances. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “We’re paying for private school, two dream homes, and we’re out of cash.” Mailbag episode | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:18:47 | |
On paper, today’s listener has it made. Two multimillion-dollar homes, no mortgage, and investments on the side. But with private-school fees, high living costs, and no full-time second income, the numbers don’t add up. Their savings are shrinking fast, and the stress is rising even faster. In this week’s Ask the Experts, Frances Cook and EnableMe’s head strategic coach Katie Wesney unpack what really causes wealth to feel fragile, even when you’re technically “doing well.” They dig into why cash flow, not just net worth, determines your financial stability, and how to fix a lifestyle that’s quietly burning through your safety net. From whether to sell shares or take out a mortgage again, to tough calls around private school fees and property priorities, this episode gets real about trade-offs, structure, and sustainability. If you’ve ever wondered how people with big assets still end up broke on paper, or you’re feeling the pinch of a high-cost lifestyle yourself, this one’s essential listening. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| My lazy investing strategy, account hacks, and what real financial freedom looks like: Your questions, answered | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:37:37 | |
You sent in a flood of money questions, and I’m ready to answer them all. In this Ask Me Anything episode, I’m going unfiltered to talk through the money decisions you’re most curious about, including:
Perfect for anyone juggling mortgages, investments, or just trying to make smarter everyday money moves. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Jobs, interest rates, and real strategies for surviving New Zealand's ‘grumpy’ economy WEBINAR REPLAY | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:54:50 | |
If you feel like you’re doing it tough, you’re far from alone. The New Zealand economy has been struggling, and regular New Zealanders are feeling the pinch. Business confidence is down, unemployment is up, and core cost-of-living measures such as food and power prices don’t look good. Interest rates are now falling, but house prices are staying flat. So is there hope for an economic comeback, or is there the possibility of a deeper crash? Time to bring in the experts, with:
They’re ready to break down what’s actually going on, and what you need to know to protect your money, and ride out the storm. We’ll debate:
Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Mailbag: “How much should I save, when my job is shaky?” | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:17:20 | |
How much should you actually have in savings to feel safe? In this week’s Ask the Experts, it’s a listener letter from someone worried about layoffs and wondering whether they’ve saved enough - or maybe even too much. Heartland Bank’s Will White joins the show to unpack what a real emergency fund looks like in 2025. How many months of expenses should you really have tucked away? What happens if you over-save and leave too much cash sitting idle instead of investing it? And where’s the best place to keep your buffer; a high-interest account, term deposit, or offset mortgage? If you’ve ever paused your investing to “build up the savings” or felt unsure what enough really means, this episode will give you a clear, practical framework to find your financial safety zone. If you have a letter you’d like us to answer, please send it through to ask@francescook.co.nz and you might feature on our next episode! Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Financiallly free in just 11 years, with The Happy Saver | 19 Oct 2025 | 00:58:55 | |
What if financial freedom didn’t take a lifetime, but just 11 years? Ruth Henderson,also known as The Happy Saver, proves it’s possible. She’s never been on a huge salary, didn’t get an inheritance, and never flipped property. Instead, through smart saving, simple investing into the sharemarket, and relentless consistency, they built enough wealth to become work-optional in just over a decade. And Ruth’s ready to share exactly how they did it. In this episode, we cover:
If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary New Zealanders can retire early (or just get financially free, faster) this episode is your blueprint. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why 'perfect balance' can wreck your finances | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:09:14 | |
Your bank balance might be looking rough, but don’t panic. Frances Cook joins the TVNZ Breakfast team to explain why it’s normal for your money to ebb and flow, why “perfect balance” is a myth, and how to stay on track through the messy seasons of life and money. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The $1 trillion time bomb: Why Kiwi families are blowing the inheritance conversation | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:14:23 | |
New Zealand is in the middle of a $1 trillion inheritance wave, and most families are walking into it completely unprepared. As Baby Boomers move into their 70s and 80s, we’re experiencing the biggest intergenerational wealth transfer in the country’s history. But the money isn’t the problem, it’s the silence. In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Katie Wesney from EnableMe to break down the inheritance conversations Kiwis aren’t having, and the painful consequences when families avoid them. The truth is that most New Zealand families have no plan for what happens when assets are passed on. Whether the estate is large or small, failing to talk about money, wills, and expectations can lead to legal mess, financial loss, and long-term family rifts. We explore:
If you want to protect your family and your finances, this episode is your must-listen guide to having the inheritance conversation before it’s too late. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| "I nannied for billionaires, it changed my entire money outlook”: building a business on your own terms, with Hannah Koumakis | 12 Oct 2025 | 00:53:13 | |
What if the 9-5 is over? The idea of a steady job and one career path for life is becoming rarer, and maybe even unrealistic. In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook talks to Hannah Koumakis about what it actually looks like when you build a career across acting, business, content, and community, all at once. What happens when you abandon the “one job for life” model, and instead create opportunities in the new world of work, where you often need multiple streams of income to get ahead, and where your financial systems need to be even sharper to hold it all together? In this episode we talk about:
Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| "Shock therapy" OCR cut, job pain, mortgage gain? Here's what's really going on | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:06:57 | |
The Reserve Bank has slashed the Official Cash Rate, so what does that mean for how bad the economy is, and what is coming next? Frances Cook talks to the TVNZ Breakfast team about what you need to know for your mortgage, your job, and the overall economy. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week, or become a confident sharemarket investor by joining the Market Memo newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Mailbag: “Can I find an undervalued suburb, or was my parents’ success just luck?” | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:16:30 | |
A listener letter asks if you can really find an undervalued suburb, or is it all luck? Host Frances Cook is joined by Vanessa Williams from http://realestate.co.nz to unpack whether you can actually spot an up-and-coming suburb before it booms. Sure, one clever buy could mean your net worth booms, but how do you play that game to win? This episode digs into:
If you’ve ever wondered how to find the best suburb to buy your first home, or whether “undervalued areas” really exist anymore, this episode has your answers. Send in your own questions, by emailing ask@francescook.co.nz Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “Consumerism is just filling a void” - how to stop money myths from draining your bank account | 05 Oct 2025 | 00:46:18 | |
We all like to think we’re making smart money decisions… but half the time it’s actually our unconscious brain calling the shots. The result? Accidental self-sabotage, money guilt, and financial myths that keep us stuck. In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook is joined by financial coach and commentator Amanda Morrall to bust the biggest money myths holding people back, and show how to break free. We dig into:
If you’ve ever felt like you’re bad with money, this episode will help you spot the hidden stories running the show, and make small, lasting changes that actually move you forward. Hit play to learn how to stop sabotaging your finances, ditch the myths, and start building the money life you actually want. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. This podcast was filmed and produced by Fanaticals Video editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why "financial flashpoints" hold you back, and how to fix it | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:08:03 | |
"Financial flashpoints" are the moments that can take over you subconscious, and quietly derail the best of money plans. They can push smart people, to make some bad choices. Frances Cook talks to the TVNZ Breakfast team about how to spot them, and stop them taking over. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Buying vs building: Which property strategy builds more wealth over time? | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:18:27 | |
Old vs new: Which property strategy builds more wealth? When you're deciding whether to buy a house or build one, you're not just choosing a home, you're making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. In this Ask the Experts episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Kirsty Healey from EnableMe to unpack the pros and cons of buying an existing home vs building new. And importantly, which option could help you build more long-term wealth. Whether you're a first-home buyer or property investor, the choice between old and new has serious financial implications. New builds often come with lower maintenance costs, better mortgage deals, and the potential for higher-quality construction. But they also carry risks like construction delays, budget blowouts, and developer red tape. On the flip side, buying an existing home is faster and feels more straightforward. But it can come with hidden costs, future-proofing challenges, and unexpected renovation bills. In this episode, we cover:
If you're stuck between buying or building, this episode will help you weigh the real costs, risks, and rewards. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What I learned from starting over in my 30s | 28 Sep 2025 | 00:38:12 | |
What really happens when you burn everything down and start over in your late 30s? In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook shares the raw reality of leaving a high-profile media job, building a business from scratch, and creating financial freedom on her own terms. This episode dives into the money lessons, business mistakes, and mindset shifts that come with starting over later in life. From learning how to begin imperfectly, to setting boundaries, to turning financial security into life freedom, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to survive a major life reset. If you’ve ever thought about walking away from stability, changing your career, or creating something of your own, his will give you a real look at the struggles, the lessons, and the unexpected wins that come from starting again. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The hidden costs of buying a home (and how to avoid nasty surprises) | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:21:10 | |
Buying a house in New Zealand? Don’t get caught out by hidden costs. In this episode of Ask the Experts, we reveal the true cost of buying a home, beyond the sale price. From legal fees to building inspections or surprise repair bills, these are the extra expenses that can seriously derail your property plans if you’re not prepared. We break down the most common hidden costs that first home buyers overlook, how much they typically add up to, and smart ways to avoid nasty financial surprises. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to your next one, this is essential listening to help you protect your deposit, manage your budget, and avoid costly mistakes. Tune in for a chat between Frances Cook and Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz, on:
Buying property is stressful enough, so don’t let hidden costs make it worse. Listen now so you can go into your next home purchase fully informed and confident. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to start investing, and go from $5, to financial freedom. Webinar REPLAY | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:53:02 | |
Think shares are too risky or too complicated? Think again. In this live webinar, Frances Cook is joined by Ruth Henderson from The Happy Saver, independent financial journalist and founder of The Bottom Line, Paul McBeth, and Dean Anderson, founder of investing platform Kernel. Together they’re going to break down how investing really works, without the jargon, hype, or Wall Street bros. You’ll learn: - Why the sharemarket isn’t gambling, but ownership in real businesses - How and why prices actually move - The difference between saving and investing, and why that gap matters - Why you don’t need thousands of dollars to get started, $5 is enough - How index funds make investing simple, diversified, and effective - The biggest mistakes beginners make (and how to avoid them) If you’ve ever wanted to invest but felt intimidated, this is the easiest way to understand the basics and build confidence. By the end, you’ll know how to take the first step toward growing wealth, on your terms. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why we financially sabotage ourselves, and how to stop | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:37:01 | |
Most of us don’t just make money mistakes, we repeat them. Why? Because our money beliefs and money psychology are quietly running the show. In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook dives into how financial self-sabotage happens, with guest Nick Alcock, a tax debt coach and chartered accountant who uses financial therapy techniques. From compulsive buying and gambling, to financial enabling, money avoidance, and even being too scared to ask for a pay rise, it’s all on the table. Nick explains how childhood money stories, financial flashpoints, and subconscious money beliefs shape the way we spend, save, and manage debt. He shares real client examples of people earning six figures but still trapped in tax debt, the common red flags like financial infidelity or compulsive shopping, and why shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset can change everything. Whether you’re struggling with overspending, stuck in fear of negotiating your salary, or trying to understand why you keep sabotaging your financial goals, this conversation will help you spot the patterns, and start building healthier money habits. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Using your home to buy investment property: smart or risky? | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:15:50 | |
Welcome to Ask the Experts, where each week we talk to people in the industry to get the inside word on what’s happening right now, and what that means for the tactics that you should use to make the most of your money. If you’re thinking about property investment, there’s one word that always comes up - leverage. It’s the strategy of using your home’s value to invest into something else, usually more property. When it works, it can supercharge your wealth. When it doesn’t? You’re putting your family home on the line. In this episode, we unpack how to use leverage the smart way, with financial strategist Katie Wesney from enableMe. We cover when it’s worth considering, the emotional and financial resilience you need, and how to avoid rookie mistakes that can cost you big. Whether you're already in the property game or just thinking about it, this one could save you serious money, and a lot of stress. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What it’s really like to quit work forever at 30, with Captain FI | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:51:27 | |
It’s a fantasy many of us share: what if you could retire early, walk away from your job forever, and live life on your own terms by the age of 30? Would it be all freedom and fun… or would the reality look very different? In this episode of Making Cents, I talk to Captain Fi, one of Australia’s most well-known FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) bloggers. He shares what it really takes to achieve financial independence at such a young age, and whether he would actually recommend it to others. Captain Fi started out as a pilot, a career that cost him over $300,000 in training. Determined to buy back his freedom, he focused on three strategies that define the FIRE movement:
By living on less than $40,000 a year, while sometimes saving up to 90% of his income, he was able to quit work in his early 30s. Today, Captain Fi lives on a hobby farm in Queensland with his wife and young daughter, raising bees, planting gardens, and building the family-focused life he always wanted. But his journey also included burnout, grief, and a surprising twist: after a short period of “retired life,” he realised it wasn’t fulfilling enough and pivoted into something new. In this conversation, we cover:
If you’ve ever wondered what early retirement really looks like, or how to use the FIRE movement to reshape your own career and lifestyle, this episode has the insights from someone who has lived it. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| No pay rise? How to ask for benefits instead | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:13:31 | |
Fast Money with Jim Mora on Sunday Morning with RNZ. Chatting everything from cost-of-living savings, how to pay off debt faster, how to get a pay rise or what to do next if a pay rise is turned down, and what's happening with the property market at the moment. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Side hustle mistakes that cost you time and money | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:15:23 | |
Side hustles can boost your money life, but only if you avoid the mistakes that tank most people early on. In this episode of Making Cents: Ask the Experts, we’re breaking down the most common side hustle mistakes, and how to avoid them. From financial pitfalls to admin overload, we’re giving you real, practical advice to help you start a side hustle that actually works. I’m joined by Joanna Greaves, General Manager of Business Banking at Kiwibank, who’s seen thousands of small businesses and side hustles come through the system. She shares what works, what fails, and the one thing most people forget to do when turning a small idea into a successful income stream. We cover: • How to start a side hustle the smart way • Financial tips for side hustlers (before you even make your first dollar) • When to move from personal to business accounts • The hidden risks that catch beginners out • The one step that separates sustainable hustles from burnout traps If you want to start a business on the side, build up financial freedom, or just make a little extra income, this episode gives you the roadmap, minus the guru hype. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to find a financial adviser you can actually trust (In NZ) | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:41:12 | |
Finding a financial adviser in New Zealand can feel both overwhelming, and risky. With so many options, how do you know who to trust with your money, your KiwiSaver, your mortgage, or your retirement plan? In this episode of Making Cents, Frances Cook breaks down exactly how to find a financial adviser in NZ that you can actually rely on. We cover when you really need an adviser, what they can (and can’t) do for you, how they get paid (fees vs commissions), and the red flags that should send you running. Whether you’re buying your first home, setting up life insurance, planning for retirement, or investing a lump sum, this guide will show you how to:
Your financial adviser should be a co-pilot, not the pilot. This episode will help you feel confident, avoid getting burned, and choose someone who puts your interests first. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Small changes to beat the cost of living | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:07:19 | |
Whether you're hitting the supermarket, or paying your regular bills, here are some quick ways to tackle the cost of living in your daily life. Frances Cook talks to the TVNZ Breakfast team about the ways to fight the price rises. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The KiwiSaver trap: why a common tactic can accidentally torpedo your nest egg | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:17:35 | |
Are you accidentally sabotaging your KiwiSaver? KiwiSaver is one of the most powerful tools New Zealanders have for growing wealth, but if you’re on autopilot, you could be losing tens of thousands of dollars without realising it. In this episode of Ask the Experts, we reveal the common KiwiSaver mistakes that are quietly shrinking your nest egg, and the easy fixes that could supercharge your long-term savings. Whether you're using KiwiSaver for retirement, your first home deposit, or both, it’s time to stop treating it like a passive savings account. Frances Cook is joined by Kristin Sutherland from EnableMe to break down:
It only takes a few small tweaks to get your KiwiSaver working harder, and fixing it might take less time than listening to this episode. Listen now to protect your future wealth, and make sure every dollar is doing the most for you. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| From Uber to dog poop: The side hustles people really get paid for | 31 Aug 2025 | 00:47:21 | |
Everyone wants a bit of extra cash, but are side hustles actually worth your time, or just another way to burn out? From driving for Uber to picking up dog poop, side hustles in New Zealand range from the weird to the wonderful. Some can bring in fast money to help with the cost of living crisis, while others might grow into a full-time business or a path to financial freedom. In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook explores which side hustle ideas are worth it in 2025, and which ones are a waste of your time and money. Done right, a side hustle can boost your income, help you start investing, or give you the chance to test a new business idea. Done wrong, it can leave you exhausted with nothing to show for it. We dig into the myths, the money traps, and the side hustles that really do work. From tutoring, to service-based gigs like cleaning and gardening, through to the online hustle trends that promise passive income but rarely deliver. If you’ve ever wondered how to make money online, what the best side hustles in New Zealand actually are, or how to bring in extra income without burning out, this episode gives you the strategies to get the cash without the crash. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Cheap reno wins vs expensive fails: What adds real value | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:20:14 | |
Small fixes for a big win: it’s time for renovations that actually add value Not all renovations are created equal. Some upgrades could cost you thousands without adding a cent to your resale value. In this Ask the Experts episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook is joined by Vanessa Williams from realestate.co.nz to reveal which home improvements genuinely increase property value, and which ones are a total waste of money. Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want to be smart about where you invest in your home, understanding the return on renovation is crucial. A $50,000 kitchen revamp might look stunning, but will buyers actually pay for it? We cover:
If you want to increase your home’s value without overcapitalising, this episode is your essential guide to renovation decisions that make a real difference. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Outsmart the cost of living: Here’s why your wallet feels empty | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:53:57 | |
Why does life still feel so expensive? In this webinar, we break down what’s really driving the cost of living in New Zealand, and why your grocery bill, rent, and power costs keep climbing while tech and travel seem cheaper. You’ll learn: - The hidden forces pushing up the price of essentials - Smart ways to save on food and bills without giving up life’s small joys - Budgeting strategies that actually work in today’s economy (no “just skip coffee” advice here) - How to take back control, even when the headlines say you shouldn’t be struggling Whether you’re renting, paying a mortgage, or just trying to stretch your pay further, this is your chance to get practical, realistic tips to help your money go further, without guilt or judgment. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to quit the money guilt (without quitting your financial goals) | 24 Aug 2025 | 00:31:41 | |
Feeling guilty every time you spend money? You’re not alone, but it might be doing more harm than good. In this episode of Making Cents, we’re diving into why money guilt is one of the biggest mindset traps stopping people from saving, investing, or sticking to a budget. I’ll break down the psychology behind guilt and spending, and show you how to shift your habits without giving up the things that make life fun. We’ll talk: • Why guilt-based budgeting usually backfires • How to enjoy your money while staying on track with financial goals • The science-backed way to build better money habits (without relying on willpower) • What behavioural economists like Richard Thaler and psychologists like Brad Klontz say about shame and self-sabotage • How to set up systems that make saving, spending, and financial planning easier • Why small wins and values-based spending matter more than you think Whether you’re dealing with debt, trying to grow your savings, or just want to stop feeling anxious every time you tap your card, this episode is your guide to dropping the shame and taking control. Because being good with money shouldn’t mean punishing yourself. Making Cents is supported by our friends at Kiwibank. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why New Zealanders are scared of the sharemarket | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:06:57 | |
A quick hit highlight clip from the April 2025 episode "Housing, KiwiSaver, and debt: Solving NZ’s biggest money issues with the Retirement Commissioner", with Jane Wrightson. Making Cents is supported by Kiwibank. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to stay motivated when your money goals feel too big | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:18:49 | |
Ever felt like your financial goals are just too far away? Whether you're dreaming of financial independence, planning for early retirement, or just trying to build up a decent savings buffer, staying motivated over the long haul can be tough. In this Ask the Experts episode of Making Cents, we're talking about how to stay on track with your biggest financial goals, even when progress feels slow. Financial adviser Lisa Butler from EnableMe shares practical money mindset strategies, goal-setting techniques, and real-life examples of clients who turned things around, one small step at a time. We break down how to:
If you're working toward long-term wealth, debt freedom, retirement planning, or simply want to get better at sticking to your financial plan, this is the episode for you. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| When stage 4 cancer hit, financial independence gave her room to breathe | 17 Aug 2025 | 00:35:03 | |
What if the worst happened, but you were financially ready? When Caroline Gordon was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer, everything changed. But because she’d already built financial independence, she had something many people in crisis don’t: options. In this episode of Making Cents, we dive into how financial freedom became Caroline’s safety net. She shares how it allowed her to: - Self-fund private cancer treatment not available in the public system - Travel overseas for surgery when time was critical - Step away from a stressful job to focus on recovery - Maintain her quality of life without financial panic Whether you’re working towards FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), building your first emergency fund, or just trying to create more security, this episode shows what financial freedom really means. Caroline shares her investing strategy (including index funds and ethical investing), and what she wishes more people understood about money, health, and freedom. It’s not about the money. It’s about what the money makes possible, especially when life gets messy. Making Cents is supported by our friends at Kiwibank. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How do banks decide if they'll lower interest rates - and are they going down more? | 16 Aug 2025 | 00:09:50 | |
Will your mortgage rate go down soon, or will banks keep them higher for longer? In this episode of Making Cents, financial journalist Frances Cook joins RNZ’s Nights on 14 August, to break down everything you need to know about New Zealand interest rates right now. We cover:
Whether you’re a homeowner, first-home buyer, or looking to grow your savings, this episode explains how bank decisions, Reserve Bank policy, and market competition all affect your wallet. Making Cents is supported by our friends at Kiwibank. Links Follow Frances Cook on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, or join the Money Memo newsletter for a free weekly money tip in your inbox each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||