In this episode, Renae is joined by Michael Riddiford, a BDM in the finance industry, for a hilarious and insightful conversation about the miscommunications, misunderstandings, and downright awkward moments that happen in mortgage broking and finance. From autocorrect disasters to clients accidentally sending very personal photos, Renae and Michael share real stories that will make you cringe, laugh, and think twice before hitting send on that next text message.

Michael and Renae delve into the importance of understanding what banks actually look at when assessing loan applications—from your social media profiles to every single transaction on your bank statements. They share eye-opening stories about clients spending thousands at entertainment venues, the dangers of having 18+ bank accounts, and why you should never assume your broker or lender won't Google you. These insights provide a deeper understanding of how every detail of your financial profile matters when applying for a home loan.

In the final part of the episode, the conversation touches on some serious topics including gender dynamics in professional settings, with Renae sharing her experiences being spoken down to when purchasing technology, and Michael discussing assumptions made based on gender in retail settings. Despite the heavier moments, the episode remains entertaining with stories about Klingon-speaking applicants, sock failures at park runs, and why you should always double-check your texts before sending. With practical advice wrapped in humor, this episode offers key takeaways for anyone navigating the finance world.

DIVE DEEPER // RESOURCES:

📋 Need help streamlining your business? Connect with Renae Long

Email: [email protected]

💼 Looking for mortgage advice or refinancing support? Contact FAM Brokers

Website: www.fambrokers.com.au

Email: [email protected]

🎙️ Join our Money Chats & Mishaps community

Instagram/Tiktok: @moneychatsandmishaps

Facebook: Money Chats & Mishaps

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly finance tips and property insights

Sign up: www.fambrokers.com.au/subscribe

💬 Have a money mishap story to share? We'd love to hear from you!

Email us: [email protected]

In this episode, we're joined by Alison Wheeler, a business coach specializing in helping business owners break through growth barriers and overcome the "failure to launch" syndrome. Alison delves into why so many business owners get stuck in analysis paralysis, waiting for the "perfect" moment that never comes—and how this delay costs them thousands of dollars and countless opportunities. She provides invaluable insights into the real reasons businesses stall, from lack of clear goals to poor communication systems and fear of decision-making.

Alison shares powerful stories about business owners who waited too long to act, including one who delayed purchasing commercial property and lost $1,100+ in monthly savings, and another who spent $26,000 on marketing with zero return because they failed to monitor the results. Her insights provide a deeper understanding of how proper systems, staff training, and clear communication can transform a struggling business into a thriving one, emphasizing that growth isn't optional—it's essential for survival.

In the final part of the episode, Alison discusses critical business fundamentals that many owners overlook, including the importance of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), KPIs, proper staff training, and knowing when to outsource. She explains why businesses that try to "stay the same" are actually declining, and how having crystal-clear goals and targets is the foundation for every successful business decision. With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode offers key takeaways for any business owner looking to scale, systemize, and succeed.

DIVE DEEPER // RESOURCES:

📋 Need help streamlining your business? Connect with Renae Long

Email: [email protected]

💼 Looking for mortgage advice or refinancing support? Contact FAM Brokers

Website: www.fambrokers.com.au

Email: [email protected]

🎙️ Join our Money Chats & Mishaps community

Instagram/Tiktok: @moneychatsandmishaps

Facebook: Money Chats & Mishaps

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly finance tips and property insights

Sign up: www.fambrokers.com.au/subscribe

💬 Have a money mishap story to share? We'd love to hear from you! \

Email us: [email protected]

In this episode, we're joined by Jackie Van Baren, a tech and automation specialist, to explore how businesses can streamline their operations and create seamless customer journeys. Jackie delves into the critical importance of building proper systems and processes—from the moment a potential client discovers you on social media to the completion of their transformation with your business. She provides invaluable insights into why having the right foundations in place is essential for business sustainability and growth.

Jackie shares powerful stories about working with diverse clients, from a brand-new coach setting up his first systems to an ex-BBC presenter with a million TikTok views but no monetization process. Her insights provide a deeper understanding of why businesses need more than just social media presence—they need strategic automation that works behind the scenes to convert engagement into revenue while maintaining that crucial human connection.

In the final part of the episode, Jackie discusses the balance between automation and human touch, explaining why AI alone isn't the answer and how proper systems prevent businesses from wasting time and losing opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing and evolving processes regularly to ensure they remain fit for purpose. With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode offers key takeaways for anyone looking to work smarter, not harder, in their business.

In this episode, we're joined by Matt Mercer from Mercer & Cooper to explore the strategic approach to property investment and wealth creation. Matt delves into why buying investment property isn't just about owning property—it's about creating a clear path to financial freedom. He provides invaluable insights into how investors can move beyond emotional decision-making and use economics, mathematics, and strategic planning to build long-term wealth.

Matt shares powerful stories about clients who transformed their financial futures, including one who held a Melbourne property for 11 years with minimal growth, then made the same equity in just one year after strategically repositioning to Brisbane. His insights provide a deeper understanding of growth rates, rental yields, and the compounding effect that can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars in equity difference over time.

In the final part of the episode, Matt discusses the critical importance of risk profiling and personalized investment strategies. He explains how property investment should be treated like any other financial product, with careful consideration of the investor's age, risk tolerance, and retirement goals. With practical advice and expert knowledge, this episode offers key takeaways for anyone looking to build wealth through property without sacrificing their ability to sleep at night.

In this episode, we're joined by Dan, founder of Urban Buyer, to explore the critical role of buyer's agents in today's competitive property market. Dan delves into his unique journey from commercial building and property development to practising law and ultimately becoming a buyer's agent, providing invaluable insights into how buyers can navigate the current market frenzy and protect their financial future.

Dan shares powerful stories about real buyer mistakes, including a shocking case where buyers overpaid by $106,000 at auction and another where a house was built on the wrong block of land! His insights provide a deeper understanding of the strategies that can save buyers from costly mistakes, making this episode essential for first-time buyers, investors, and anyone looking to make smart property decisions.

In the final part of the episode, Dan discusses why professional guidance is more critical than ever in today's heated market. He explains how buyer's agents can help clients avoid overpaying, find off-market opportunities, and make informed decisions that protect both their investment and long-term wealth. With practical advice and expert knowledge, this episode offers key takeaways for anyone looking to enter the property market with confidence.

In this episode of Money Chats and Mishaps, host Renae Long sits down with Norm Roberts, A.I. Tech Integration Consultant of MyOps, to unpack how AI, cybersecurity, and automation are reshaping the finance industry.

From his 20-year journey in banking across Sydney, Melbourne, and LA to the rise of tech-driven lending, Norm shares eye-opening stories about:

How the GFC changed banking forever

What the AI revolution means for mortgage brokers, admin staff, and compliance

Real risks behind identity theft and digital security

And why human connection still matters in an increasingly automated world

This conversation bridges the gap between tech innovation and real-life finance — with stories, laughter, and a dose of reality.

🎙️ Tune in for practical insights every homeowner, broker, and business owner should hear.

In this episode, Wendy Goulevitch from Brighten Home Loans, shares expert insights into the world of home loans for expats and unique properties. Wendy discusses the challenges and opportunities in securing home loans for FIFO workers, highlighting the importance of understanding borrowing capacity and navigating the complex world of serviceability. She also recounts an unforgettable story about a client who started demolishing a property before even purchasing it, revealing the sometimes surprising twists in the real estate and lending process. Wendy also sheds light on what sets Brighten apart, particularly for self-employed clients, with flexible income verification options and a commitment to simplifying the loan process. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the ever-evolving landscape of home loans!

Get ready for an inside look at the finance industry with Leah Renwick! 🎧 In this episode of Money, Chats, and Mishaps, Leah shares unforgettable stories—from business advice to bonding over the perfect roast pork crackling—plus valuable insights on what it really takes to thrive as a broker. Whether you're considering a career switch or just curious about the world of finance, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in now and catch all the wisdom! 🚀💼

Get ready for an inside look at the finance industry with Leah Renwick! 🎧 In this episode of Money, Chats, and Mishaps, Leah shares unforgettable stories—from business advice to bonding over the perfect roast pork crackling—plus valuable insights on what it really takes to thrive as a broker. Whether you're considering a career switch or just curious about the world of finance, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in now and catch all the wisdom! 🚀💼

🌿 In this episode of Money, Chats, and Mishaps, Jo Ransome dives deep into the importance of self-care, overcoming trauma, and how these factors are key to achieving success in both life and business. From breaking through stress to redefining what success means to you, Jo's insights are powerful and transformative.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will encourage you to embrace healing, growth, and resilience on your own journey. 🎧✨

#SelfCare #TraumaHealing #MindsetMatters #PersonalGrowth #BusinessConsulting #HealingJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience #GrowthAndSuccess