Send us a text

Ever wonder why you sometimes make financial decisions you later regret? The answer might lie not in your knowledge of investments, but in your state of mind when making those choices.

Roland, a seasoned coach who's worked with financial planners for over 15 years through Aspiral Coaching and Leadership, joins us to share a powerful tool that's transforming the financial planning world: the BodyScan meditation. This isn't your typical meditation practice—it's what Roland calls a "mindfulness hack" that delivers immediate results even for skeptics and beginners.

Through a guided experience, Roland takes us on a journey from the soles of our feet to the crown of our heads, teaching us the crucial skill of directing our attention deliberately. As we practice feeling rather than thinking, something remarkable happens: the constant mental chatter subsides, creating space for clarity and presence. This shift from perpetual thinking to mindful awareness creates the perfect mental environment for making sound financial decisions.

The magic of this practice extends beyond the meditation itself. As our hosts discover, the post-meditation state brings heightened awareness, reduced confirmation bias, and stronger receptivity to professional guidance. When approaching financial planning meetings, this mental clarity allows both planners and clients to engage more authentically, moving beyond preconceived notions to discover truly personalized financial solutions. Ready to transform your relationship with money through mindfulness? This episode offers not just theory but a practical tool you can begin using immediately.

Try the guided meditation, share your experience with us, and discover how this simple practice might become your secret weapon for financial success. Subscribe now for more insights that bridge the gap between personal development and financial wellbeing.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

What makes a truly great financial planner? While technical expertise is essential, our conversation with Roland from Aspiral Coaching and Leadership reveals that emotional intelligence might be the secret ingredient that separates good financial advice from transformative financial guidance.

Roland shares his experience helping financial planners develop coaching skills that enable them to connect more deeply with clients. Through better questioning, patience, and mindful presence, planners can uncover what really matters to clients beyond the numbers. This emotional intelligence becomes particularly valuable during market turbulence, when staying grounded helps both planners and clients avoid reactive decisions that could derail long-term financial plans.

Craig brings nearly 40 years of financial planning experience to the conversation, having navigated through five major market crashes. His perspective highlights how a seasoned planner's calm guidance during downturns—like the 40% market drop in 1998—can save clients from panic-selling and instead help them stay invested to capture the eventual recovery. This wisdom isn't just about market knowledge; it's about emotional self-management.

We explore practical mindfulness techniques, particularly the "body scan," which both planners and clients can use before meetings to gain clarity and perspective. By focusing on bodily sensations rather than racing thoughts, this practice creates space for more meaningful conversations about financial goals as they connect to life values. The Wheel of Life assessment emerges as another valuable tool that helps clients align their financial decisions with what truly matters across all life domains.

Whether you're a financial professional looking to elevate your practice or someone seeking a deeper relationship with your money, this episode offers insights into how mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and genuine care create the foundation for financial wellbeing. Subscribe, share your thoughts, and let us know which mindfulness practices you might incorporate into your financial journey.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

What happens when life changes in an instant? Kalvin van Baalen knows this reality all too well. After flying into power lines during a paragliding excursion, Kalvin fell into the resulting fire, suffering burns over 70% of his body. That catastrophic moment transformed him from an active, healthy 21-year-old to someone who would spend over 400 days fighting for his life in ICU.

Kalvin's story isn't just about survival—it's about extraordinary resilience and perspective. "Nothing is actually an obstacle compared to what a real obstacle was—surviving and trying to walk again," he shares with remarkable candor. Now pursuing a finance degree with plans to become a CFA, Kalvin has channeled his experience into a methodical approach toward building a sustainable future. His paragliding accident didn't just change his body; it fundamentally altered his relationship with risk, both physical and financial.

As an ambassador for disabled golf, Kalvin visits schools and works with children with disabilities, showing them what's possible through authentic engagement and competitive spirit. His willingness to be visible—playing golf in shorts that don't hide his scars—creates powerful connections with children who can truly relate to his experience. Through our conversation, we explore crucial financial planning considerations for individuals with disabilities, particularly regarding insurance options available through group coverage at larger companies. Kalvin's journey reminds us why proper financial planning isn't optional—it's essential protection against life's unpredictable turns. When everything can change in thirty minutes, as it did for Kalvin, having appropriate safeguards in place becomes not just prudent but potentially life-saving.

Ready to rethink your approach to financial planning and risk management? Subscribe to Know Your Money for more insights on creating financial resilience in the face of life's uncertainties.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

Kalvin van Baalen shares his remarkable survival story after a devastating paragliding accident where he hit power lines, caught fire, and subsequently spent 413 days in ICU with 42 operations. His journey from being completely burned and given little chance of survival to becoming a competitive disabled golfer demonstrates extraordinary resilience and the power of an optimistic mindset.

• Kalvin was a passionate paraglider who dreamed of pursuing it professionally before his accident at age 21
• After hitting power lines during a competition, he suffered severe burns and spent over a year in intensive care
• His medical aid initially suggested doctors should "palliate" him as a non-recoverable case
• Despite spending two years in a wheelchair, he maintained a "delusionally optimistic" attitude throughout recovery
• Kalvin now plays competitive golf for Disabled Golfer South Africa, unable to qualify for Deaf Golf by just a few decibels
• His medical expenses totalled approximately R22 million, potentially the highest individual medical aid claim in South Africa
• Government hospitals in South Africa typically palliate patients with over 50% burns due to resource constraints
• Kalvin's advice: life can change in an instant, so pursue what matters and consider financial protection early

Visit our website www.growthfp.co.za to subscribe to our podcast.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

Navigating the complex world of South African trusts has become increasingly challenging with recent tax legislation changes. Marteen Michau, founder of Fidelis Vox, brings clarity to these murky waters with expertise that could save families from costly mistakes.

The conversation reveals how South African trust structures are facing new hurdles, particularly for families with international connections. When South African trusts distribute funds to non-resident beneficiaries, they now face punitive double taxation scenarios. The recent extension of tax legislation means all taxable income (not just capital gains) distributed to non-residents will be taxed in the trust at higher rates, while still being taxable in the beneficiary's country of residence. With two different taxpayers involved, double tax agreements provide no relief.

Similarly significant is how distributions between South African trusts are now handled. The Thistle court case confirmed that capital gains distributed from one SA trust to another remain trapped at higher trust tax rates, even when subsequently passed to individual beneficiaries in the same tax year. This doubles the effective tax burden compared to distributing directly to individuals.

For those looking to internationalize their wealth, there's some positive news. SARS and the Reserve Bank now accept applications for direct distributions from SA trusts to offshore trusts (provided the offshore trust is a named beneficiary), streamlining a previously complex process requiring individual intermediaries and triggering transfer pricing complications.

Perhaps most compelling is Marteen's approach to preserving family wealth across generations through "family charter workshops." Gathering three generations around a metaphorical campfire to share the wealth creator's journey helps establish shared values and objectives that guide future financial decisions. As Marteen wisely notes: "Don't pass money on, pass a legacy on" – especially critical when research shows inherited wealth is now typically squandered by the second rather than third generation.

Have you considered how these tax changes might impact your family's wealth preservation strategy? Proper planning has never been more important.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

Demystifying trusts as practical financial planning tools is the focus of our enlightening conversation with Marteen from Fidelis Vox, whose very name means "Trusted Voice." Moving beyond outdated perceptions of trusts as tax avoidance vehicles, we uncover their strategic applications for both business owners and families.

Marteen walks us through fundamental trust concepts, explaining how these entities provide critical asset protection for business owners against potential creditors while ensuring business continuity after death. The structure avoids estate freezing, excessive executor fees, and potential family conflicts during estate administration – increasingly valuable benefits given South Africa's current delays in estate processing.

The conversation explores practical scenarios where trusts make sense: protecting assets for financially vulnerable family members, housing shared family vacation properties, and structuring business interests. We also address common misconceptions, discussing the requirement for independent trustees, the implications of housing primary residences in trusts, and the current regulations regarding loan accounts to trusts.

For families considering wealth protection strategies, Marteen highlights testamentary trusts as cost-effective alternatives that activate only upon death, providing protection for minor children without incurring ongoing administration expenses during your lifetime. She emphasizes that proper trust management is essential to maintain their legal protections and prevent them from being deemed alter egos of their founders.

Whether you're a business owner seeking asset protection, a parent planning for your children's financial security, or a family wanting to preserve shared assets across generations, this episode provides practical insights to help determine if a trust structure aligns with your specific circumstances. Subscribe to Know Your Money for more expert conversations on protecting and growing your wealth.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

Death comes for us all, but the administrative nightmare that follows doesn't have to haunt your loved ones for years. In this eye-opening episode of Know Your Money, we sit down with Jakes, a candidate attorney who shares his ongoing six-year battle to settle his father's estate—a cautionary tale that might just save your family from similar anguish.

Jake walks us through the cascading problems caused by his father's 30-year-old will. When his father passed away in 2019, what should have been a straightforward process became an administrative labyrinth. With parents who had divorced, remarried, and divorced again, the outdated will left the family vulnerable to legal complications that continue to this day in 2025.

The story takes a particularly troubling turn when Jakes describes the bank's role as executor. After initially denying possession of the will, they later demanded substantial upfront fees before beginning their duties. We explore the shocking moment when Jake's family couldn't access funds for the funeral despite his father having arranged payment before his death, forcing them to postpone the burial. After two years of difficulties, the bank resigned as executor, leaving the family in legal limbo.

Property complications, unexpected tax liabilities, and mounting costs add layers of complexity to Jake's story. His professional legal insight makes this more than just a personal tragedy—it's a masterclass in what can go wrong when estate planning is neglected. Before you dismiss updating your will as something that can wait, listen to this episode and reconsider. Your family's peace of mind might depend on it. Share this episode with someone whose future decisions could be transformed by Jake's powerful testimony.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

What happens when life's busy pace means you never get around to making that will? Attorney Jakes Myberg from Waks Attorneys explains the often complicated reality of dying "intestate" - without a valid will - and why it matters more than you might think.

When someone dies without a will in South Africa, three key pieces of legislation take control: the Interstate Succession Act, the Administration of Deceased Estates Act, and the Estate Duty Act. Together, these determine who gets what from your estate - and it's rarely as straightforward as people expect. Your marital status becomes particularly crucial - those married in community of property will see half their estate automatically go to their spouse, but the remaining assets follow a formula that divides inheritance between spouse and children according to precise calculations.

The consequences for families can be significant. Minor children's inheritance must go to the Guardian's Fund, a government-managed account that holds money until they turn 18. While this protects the funds, accessing money for legitimate needs involves bureaucracy, and the administration is often inefficient due to high volumes. After 30 years, unclaimed funds revert to the state - a sobering thought for those who assume their assets will automatically reach the right hands.

Estate duty implications apply whether you have a will or not (with the first R3.5 million exempt), but spouses can effectively transfer assets between them tax-free, potentially preserving more wealth for heirs. Without proper planning, these opportunities may be missed. Even more concerning is what happens with insolvent estates or when financial institutions act as executors, often prioritizing their fees over efficient administration.

The message is clear - creating a valid will isn't just about distributing assets; it's about protecting loved ones from unnecessary complications during an already difficult time. Don't leave your family's future to chance when a simple document can provide clarity and control over your legacy.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

What happens to your money when you die? Most people don't realize that upon death, bank accounts are frozen, property transfers take time, and assets remain locked for on average a minimum of six months while the complex estate administration process unfolds. This eye-opening conversation with Jakes Myburgh from Waks Attorneys reveals the critical importance of having a properly executed will and understanding the estate administration process.

Jakes walks us through the legal requirements for a valid will according to the Wills Act - it must be in writing, signed by the testator (who must be at least 16 years old), and witnessed by two people (at least 14 years old). We explore the vital role of executors who oversee estate administration, charging a 3.5% fee plus VAT on the total estate value, and why appointing the right executor matters more than most realize.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn when we unpack the actual mechanics of what happens after death - from the mandatory reporting to the Master of the High Court, to advertising for creditors in newspapers, completing final tax returns, and preparing a Liquidation and Distribution account. This process, which typically takes six months minimum but can stretch to years, creates a financial black hole during which beneficiaries cannot access most assets.

Perhaps most valuable is our examination of strategic estate planning solutions that can protect loved ones from financial hardship during this waiting period. We contrast assets that must go through the estate process with those that bypass it entirely through beneficiary nominations - highlighting how life policies, retirement annuities and properly structured investments can provide immediate financial relief to family members when they need it most.

Whether you're building wealth or already established, this conversation provides essential knowledge about protecting your legacy and ensuring your assets reach your loved ones efficiently. Don't wait until it's too late - proper estate planning isn't just about distributing wealth, it's about preventing unnecessary hardship for those you leave behind.

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za

Send us a text

Join us for a compelling conversation with Ian Jones from Fundhouse as we explore the foundations of ethical investing and the importance of transparency in financial services. Ian shares the ethos that drives Fundhouse, actively working to place the end client's needs at the forefront of all investment decisions. Throughout the episode, we delve into how Fundhouse has navigated challenges in the financial advisory space and why it is essential to cultivate relationships with like-minded advisors. 

Hear about their core mission: to assist clients in retiring better and to promote a sustainable financial advisory industry. Listen as Ian emphasizes the need for clarity and simplicity in financial discussions, transforming complex investment strategies into achievable outcomes for clients. This episode serves as an essential reminder of why ethical investments lead to lasting success, not just for advisors, but for their clients as well.

End your financial journey on a positive note by engaging with ethical practices that prioritize your best interests. Subscribe and share to spread the word on transparency and clarity in the world of finance!

Support the show

Please subscribe to our podcast or have a look at our website
www.growthfp.co.za