April is Australian Financial Literacy Month, and financial literacy has become one of the
most talked about topics online, especially across platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon Smit explores what financial
literacy really means and why it matters so much for everyday Australians. She breaks
the concept down in practical, real life terms and explains why so many capable,
intelligent people still feel confused, overwhelmed, or behind when it comes to money.

The conversation looks at the emotional side of money, the impact of comparison culture
and social media, and the most common financial literacy gaps seen with clients.
Shannon also discusses the role of mindset and behaviour in financial outcomes,
highlighting why financial success is driven more by habits and choices than income or
background.
Shannon shares realistic, achievable steps listeners can take to start improving their
financial literacy, build confidence with money, and make more intentional financial
decisions over time. This episode is designed to be approachable, practical, and
empowering, giving listeners clarity, reassurance, and simple ways to begin improving
their relationship with money.

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In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Financial Adviser and Accountant, Shannon Smit, dives deep into the compelling world of using self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to invest in property. With her signature energy and expertise, Shannon explains the mechanics of SMSFs, contrasting them with retail and industry super funds, and revealing the unique power they offer individuals to take control of their financial future.
From tax advantages like 15% tax on rental income and zero tax on capital gains in pension phase, to leveraging super contributions as a way of indirectly gaining a tax deduction to purchase property, Shannon breaks it all down in a way that feels accessible and strategic.
She shares real-life client stories, including her own, where commercial properties—like office buildings or factories—are purchased within SMSFs and leased back to businesses, creating long-term wealth and tax efficiency. Shannon also unpacks the rules around residential property—highlighting strict limitations on personal use—and discusses how smart structuring can open up even more opportunities.
The episode is rich with advice on managing diversification within your super, planning for liquidity in retirement, and transitioning properties out of super in pension phase—all while navigating the complexity with professional support. If you’ve ever considered turning your super into a wealth-building tool through property, this episode is a goldmine of insights and practical guidance.

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Investing in property is one thing, but scaling a property portfolio is another challenge
altogether. In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon Smit dives into one of her favourite topics—how to make the leap from two properties to multiple properties while maintaining cash flow neutrality. If you’re looking to expand your investment portfolio and want practical, strategic advice, this is the episode for you.

Shannon shares her insights on selecting the right properties, financing strategies, and the importance of structuring your investments correctly. She also explains the concept of cash flow neutrality—how to balance rental income with expenses to ensure your properties aren’t draining your finances. 

With years of experience as both an investor and financial advisor,
Shannon offers real-life examples of what works (and what doesn’t), including lessons from her own property journey.

From navigating negative gearing and tax benefits to understanding market trends and risk management, this episode is packed with valuable insights for property investors at any stage.
Whether you’re an experienced investor or just beginning to explore property as a wealth- building tool, Shannon provides the strategies and mindset shifts needed to grow a sustainable and profitable portfolio.
Tune in now to learn how to take your property investments to the next level.

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When it comes to funding aged care, the challenges go beyond finances.

Decisions often need to be made urgently for loved ones requiring immediate out-of-home care.

These moments are emotional, and the process may involve complex estate planning or even disagreements among family members about the best course of action.In this episode, Shannon Smit is joined by aged care financial specialists Bianca Carroll and Tricia Hill from Smart Private Wealth.

Together, they explore this critical and often-overlooked topic.

You’ll learn what aged care financial planning is, why it differs from general financial advice, and how it can help families manage the costs of aged care while preserving assets, maximising benefits, and minimising tax losses.

Bianca and Tricia also share real-life examples of how their advice has led to life-changing outcomes for their clients.Whether you’re navigating aged care decisions now or planning for the future, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

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In this episode of "The Accountant That Builds," Shannon Smit sits down with futurist and AI advocate Steve Sammartino to discuss how small businesses can leverage AI to gain a competitive edge.

Steve shares his thoughts on why AI is the most transformative technology of our time and provides actionable advice for small business owners ready to embrace the future.

From breaking down common fears around AI adoption to showcasing its immense potential, Steve inspires listeners with his insights on efficiency, innovation, and staying ahead in an ever-changing world.

As he puts it, "Move fast. The big will not always beat the small. But the fast will always beat the slow."You can catch Steve's keynote at BITE Conference on 6th May 2025. Visit www.biteconference.com.au for details.

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In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, host Shannon Smit discusses the massive wealth transfer expected from Baby Boomers to the next generation, estimated at $84 trillion. Shannon highlights the opportunities and challenges of this wealth transfer, focusing on estate planning, tax liabilities, and how Baby Boomers are increasingly offering financial support to their families during their lifetimes. She explains the often-overlooked 17% tax on inherited superannuation and emphasises the importance of tools like testamentary trusts to protect family wealth from divorce settlements and creditors.Shannon also explores investment and education bonds, which have evolved into tax-efficient strategies for multi-generational wealth transfer. These bonds allow for tax-free growth over 10 years, offering flexibility and security for both current and future generations. By planning early and carefully, Baby Boomers can minimise tax burdens and ensure their hard-earned wealth benefits their families for years to come.

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On the Accountant That Builds podcast, we welcome David Jenyns, founder of Systemology.

We wanted to chat with Dave as we recognise that one of the biggest missing pieces to grow a small and medium sized business to the next level is understanding HOW you can do it. 

Systemology is a gamechanger in helping businesses create processes for simple, repeatable tasks so you can free up time to focus on revenue generating tasks. 

At Smart, we implemented Systemology and SystemHUB into our operations a number of years ago, and it has absolutely been a gamechanger to help streamline everything from operations and procedures, for admin, accounting, marketing and everything in between. 

Dave has worked out how to integrate AI into businesses so that it’s achievable and easy to understand, helping businesses spend time on more strategic, revenue-generating activities rather than being bogged down in operations. 

Today, David’s mission is to free all business owners worldwide from the daily operations of running their businesses.

Dave spends most of his time supporting the growing community of certified SYSTEMologists as they help business owners implement SYSTEMology across the globe.

He also delivers workshops, and keynote addresses and hosts his own popular podcast – Business Processes Simplified. Find out more about SYSTEMology here: https://www.systemology.com/

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Trigger Warning: This episode discusses issues around mental health and suicide.

Today we’re talking mental health in the workplace, with guest Mick Simmons, founder of Mental Health Safety Net, a local grass-roots organisation dedicated to providing suicide awareness training to workplaces and schools.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and other mental health organizations, approximately 45% of Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. This statistic highlights the significant impact mental health issues have on the population, underscoring the importance of awareness, support, and treatment options.

Mick Simmons, a London native, had the privilege of studying in Switzerland before settling in Australia 30 years ago. His professional journey began in hospitality, eventually leading him to teach cookery at Chisholm Rosebud.

His own experiences with mental health struggles led him to dedicating himself to addressing mental health, first working with a charity to reduce mental health struggles in men of all trades, then transitioning to tapping into his education background, educating young people on suicide prevention.

In this podcast, Mick shares some candid stories and why education and awareness is key to happier, healthier and more well balanced individuals.

For Mick, it starts with the young people who will become the next generation of professionals and workers who are better versed in looking out for each other in the face of a mental health struggle.

NOTE: If you or anyone you know are struggling with mental health, we recommend you reach out to www.beyondblue.org.au

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On the Accountant That Builds podcast, we welcome Kate Christie.

Kate is Australia’s top time management expert, working with clients including BUPA, Westpac, Specsavers, L’Oreal, Women in International Security, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, The European Union, and Smart Business Solutions.

She is a sought-after media commentator, an Opinion Columnist for CEOWorld Magazine, and a co-host on TV’s Kochie’s Business Builders.

As the best-selling author of five books, Kate has spoken to audiences around the world, including in Australia, Asia, America, Europe, and the United Kingdom.

Kate has conducted time investment workshops with the team at Smart Business Solutions, significantly enhancing their work approach, efficiency, and output. Her methods have enabled each team member to better understand and apply their own efficiencies in a team environment. 

Kate’s insights will help individuals and business owners identify how to use their time to be revenue generating, minimise disruptions to ensure better productivity, understand where to outsource and where to reject activities.

Find out more about Kate Christie and her workshops at www.katechristie.com.au

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Heather Gallagher is a seasoned finance professional with nearly 20 years of experience, focusing on the third-party space for the last decade.

Her dedication to assisting mortgage brokers in building successful, sustainable businesses through her role as outsource Financial's Head of Training and Education, is inspiring.

Heather has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including revamping mentoring programs and introducing innovative educational offerings. She has been instrumental in empowering mortgage brokers and administrative staff through tailored mentoring programs and weekly learning sessions.

Heather's passion for education aligns perfectly with our show's ethos, as we believe that education is key to empowerment. Our own team at Smart Business Solutions can attest firsthand to her training excellence.

In today's episode, we'll delve into Heather's journey in the finance industry, her insights on leadership and business growth, and the importance of continuous learning for everyone in the business regardless of their role.

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