“Consumerism is just filling a void” - how to stop money myths from draining your bank account
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:Why money is 90% mindset and only 10% mechanicsHow consumerism tricks us into “filling a void” instead of fixing problemsThe common belief of “I’m just not a money person”, and why it’s falseSimple mindset shifts that unlock real financial progressHow to align your money with your values (without the guilt)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.LinksFollow 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 FanaticalsVideo editing & content production by Lana Byrne Audio engineering by Tash Chittock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Why "financial flashpoints" hold you back, and how to fix it
"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. LinksFollow 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.
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Buying vs building: Which property strategy builds more wealth over time?
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:How new builds can affect your mortgage rate and deposit requirementsThe most common building pitfalls, including budget and council issuesWhy existing homes aren't always the “safe” choiceWhich option could offer better long-term value growthHow to decide based on your personal timeline, risk tolerance, and financial goalsIf you're stuck between buying or building, this episode will help you weigh the real costs, risks, and rewards.LinksFollow 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.
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What I learned from starting over in my 30s
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.LinksFollow 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.
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The hidden costs of buying a home (and how to avoid nasty surprises)
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:Legal fees and how to reduce themWhat building inspections actually costWhether you need to test for meth or asbestosRed flags in older homes that could cost you thousandsHow much extra cash to have on hand before going unconditionalBuying 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.LinksFollow 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 podcast for people who want financial freedom, without giving up their coffee.That means it's time to make the money world make cents. Join Frances Cook, best-selling author and award-winning journalist, to talk about the proven ways to invest your way to financial independence, buy your first home, or just get your spending under control.Every Monday we have the week's feature interview, with someone who's done something interesting with their money. From paying off a mountain of debt, or investing for financial independence, or starting a new business, these are the ordinary people making the extraordinary possible.On Thursday we have Ask the Experts, where industry insiders answer your questions on the money world. From earning more in your career, to investing, or sticking to a budget, they'll help make money simple.Every now and then you'll get a bonus episode too, but the fun of those is that you never know when they're coming! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
New Zealand