Is your super really set up to pay you an income in retirement, or is it just sitting there as a savings account? In Episode 59 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks with Adrian Gervasoni, Executive Manager of Advice Services at Industry Fund Services (IFS), about how Australians approaching retirement should be thinking differently about their super. Adrian explains why super needs to shift from simply growing savings to delivering a reliable income, and how making retirement choices clearer and simpler can help people feel more confident about their future. Marc and Adrian also talk about the IFS' whitepaper, developed in collaboration with Challenger to help align financial strategies with real lifestyle goals. If you want to feel more confident about turning your super into retirement income, this is an episode not to miss.

Getting into your first home has always been a dream for many Australians, but with major changes now in effect, that dream might be more achievable than ever. In Episode 58 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham is joined by Chaice Paterson, the founder of Low Deposit Homes. Based on the Gold Coast, Chaice has made it his mission to help first-home-buyers navigate the entire process of getting into their first property, from savings plans to securing land and home packages. Marc and Chaice talk through the huge changes that came into effect on October 1st with the expansion of the First Home Buyer Guarantee. You'll learn how first-home-buyers can now get into the market with as little as a 5% deposit, what grants and schemes are now available, and how to avoid the common mistakes that stall so many buyers. Whether you're aiming for a city apartment or your own slice of land, Chaice gives practical and easy-to-follow tips to take advantage of these unprecedented opportunities and finally get on the property ladder.

What truly makes for a happy retirement — is it money, purpose, or something more? In Episode 57 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks to Amanda Gardner, who is Head of Platform Partnerships at Challenger. Amanda shares insights from Challenger's Retirement Happiness Index, revealing how financial security, community, and a sense of purpose are all critical to enjoying retirement. She highlights that while 76% of pre-retirees fear their money won't last, those who seek financial advice feel far more confident and prepared. Amanda also explores why so many Australians value a guaranteed income in retirement and the importance of staying socially connected and mentally engaged. Together, they emphasise the power of planning early and seeking expert advice to create a retirement that is not just financially sustainable but also deeply fulfilling.

How can your home or office layout shape your energy, mindset, and even your money? In Episode 56 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks to Jane Langof, who is a multi-award-winning Feng Shui Master, and speaker and founder of Feng Shui Concepts. Jane shares how the flow of energy in your environment can influence your mental, physical and financial wellbeing. She offers practical tips like decluttering your entrance to invite opportunity, positioning your desk to feel empowered at work, and incorporating plants and colours to boost prosperity and harmony. Jane also explains how understanding sunlight, building orientation, and natural elements can create spaces that nurture both your mindset and your finances. Whether you're new to Feng Shui or simply looking for small changes with a big impact, this episode offers inspiring and actionable ideas to create balance in your life and money.

https://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/

Worried about what retirement will really look like?

In Episode 55 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks to Katrina McPhee, Group Executive, Advocacy and Communication and Chief of Staff at Aware Super. Katrina shares insights from Aware Super's latest State of Retirement report, revealing that 63% of Australians over 45 feel anxious about their retirement, with Gen X leading the concern. She explores how understanding your super, maximising tax-free opportunities, and leaving money invested longer can all contribute to greater financial peace of mind. But retirement isn't just about dollars, Katrina also highlights the importance of community, purpose, and wellbeing in creating a meaningful next chapter.

https://aware.com.au/ https://aware.com.au/member/about-us/newsroom/march-2025/state-of-retirement-report

Ever wondered how to access the wealth tied up in your home without selling it?

In Episode 54 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks to Andre Karney and Kevin Wunsh, Co-Founders and Joint CEOs of Inviva. Andre and Kevin share how reverse mortgages can give retirees financial flexibility by unlocking home equity without monthly repayments. They explain how borrowers can access up to 20% of their property's value at age 60, with no risk of owing more than the home's value. They also discuss market trends, government alternatives, and why financial education is key to empowering retirees. If you or someone you know is asset-rich but cash-poor, this episode is a must-listen!

https://www.inviva.com.au/

Ever wondered how to get the best deal on your mortgage, bills, and financial products? In Episode 53 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham speaks to Sally Tindall, who is the Data Insights Director and Chief Spokesperson at Canstar Australia. Sally shares insights from Canstar's 2024 Consumer Pulse Report, highlighting how rising economic pressures have led more Australians to use comparison sites to find better financial deals. She explains why reading the fine print is crucial, how negotiating with lenders can save you money, and the best ways to manage personal debt. Sally also discusses the challenges facing first-time home buyers, the importance of having a plan B, and how to balance financial goals with enjoying life.

I can't believe we're already kicking off 2025! But before we dive into new conversations and guests, let's take a moment to reflect on the highlights of 2024. Over the past year, we've had incredible guests who shared their expertise across a wide range of topics. And as always, Marc asked each of them for their best piece of advice. In today's episode, we've compiled those standout moments—the lessons, insights, and wisdom that shaped their journeys and contributed to their success. These aren't just money tips, but life advice that we can all learn from as we step into the new year. Get ready for some golden nuggets to inspire and guide you in 2025!

Want to know how fixed income investing can boost your savings? In Episode 51 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham is joined by Ali Rosenberg, co-founder of Blossom, a savings app providing access to 5.95% p.a. and 7.00% p.a. products to help you reach your goals faster. Whether you're saving for a house, a car, a holiday or just because, Blossom helps you access the targeted returns you need to reach your savings goals faster. Ali shares how she and her sister Gaby, both finance professionals, launched Blossom during the pandemic to break down barriers in the fixed income market. With Blossom Save and Blossom Plus offering competitive returns and flexibility, they've attracted 22,000 customers and just under $90 million in funds under management. Ali discusses how they've created a platform that empowers women, offering low fees, no minimum investment, and future plans to expand into New Zealand, plus joint and kids' accounts. Learn how they're making fixed income investments easier for everyday people.

Ever wonder how someone could lose their life savings to a scam? In Episode 50 of A Bite From The Money Sandwich, Marc Bineham is joined by Tracy Hall, author, keynote speaker and senior marketing executive who has most recently become known as the famous last victim of Hamish McLaren - arguably Australia's most prolific con-man. Tracy lost $317,000 and, for a time, her ability to trust. Now, she shares her story of resilience and recovery. Tracy discusses not only her personal experience but also the larger issues of global scams, victim-blaming, and the emotional toll fraud can take. From spotting red flags to rebuilding trust, Tracy's insights provide invaluable lessons on safeguarding yourself and your finances. With her new memoir, The Last Victim, Tracy aims to educate and raise awareness about scams, while offering hope to others who may have been deceived.

'Who the Hell is Hamish' Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/who-the-hell-is-hamish/id1451470931

'The Last Victim' by Tracy Hall - https://www.amazon.com.au/Last-Victim-betrayal-unbreakable-relationship/dp/0733651151/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.i-K8uMa_-BVl791cYR7nqJluy3YtqM_XUQ-mwf3y7wn7JAau8rZRXxdJoqwUlmFQ.K_CJ-Y0Yupn-yNc4DLXbWB3RWvjLacEJrIwG63AZ5fU&qid=1726010371&sr=8-1