The Purposeful Investor

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We unpack how families can help first-home buyers enter the market without risking retirement, and why honest conversations plus clear numbers beat media noise. Practical steps include guarantors, 5% deposit schemes, rentvesting, and legal safeguards for gifts.

• social pressure and silence blocking helpful family talks
• role of the mortgage broker as long-term advisor
• apartments and location as smarter first steps
• four family help paths: guarantor, gift, silent stake, co-borrow
• using splits, offsets, and timelines to remove guarantees
• 5% deposit schemes and avoiding lenders’ mortgage insurance
• rentvesting to boost borrowing capacity
• legal protection for gifts and fairness across siblings
• savings incentives, living at home, and granny flats
• career trajectory, buffers, and repayment resilience

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The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

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This is one of our most important episodes - ever!

Predictions feel powerful until they're not.

We pull back the curtain on what actually drives long-term investment returns and explore how a systematic, evidence-led approach can help you capture the returns you are owed while avoiding costly traps.

Aden and David sit down with Bhanu Singh, CEO of Dimensional Fund Advisors Australia, to trace the real story of modern investing: from Harry Markowitz’s portfolio theory and the birth of clean market data at CRSP to Eugene Fama’s insight that prices embed information. Bhanu explains how research moved beyond CAPM to the Fama-French model, why small and value stocks have higher expected returns, and how profitability adds a sharper lens to selecting resilient companies. The message is clear and practical: start with the global market portfolio, then tilt deliberately toward proven drivers of returns, all while staying diversified and cost aware.

We also examine the strengths and limits of index funds. Lower fees and broad exposure are wins, but rigid rules can force trades at bad moments. Along the way, we cut through media noise, address behaviour gaps that derail investors, and highlight how better implementation turns good research into better outcomes.

More on Dimensional Fund Advisors

More on Fama French Three-Factor Model

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

Markets never move in straight lines and 2025 proved it once again. The first year of President Trump Mk II was always going to be interesting!

As we look to 2026, we dust off the crystal ball for a conversation about markets and investing. David Andrew and Nick Mengola join Aden to look back at markets in 2025 and look to the major trends to understand what might be in store for 2026.

AI sits centre stage for 2026. We explore capex surges, competitive shifts between OpenAI and Google, and how to hold measured exposure without betting the farm on AI. 

We discuss the returns of markets and market dimensions of large, value, small and profitability.

If you’re looking for a calm, evidence-led plan for a volatile year ahead, here's your road map: diversify across regions and factors, own enough high-quality bonds, rebalance, and be a prepared (rational) optimist. 

Share with a friend who needs a steadier strategy and leave a review to tell us how you’re positioning for 2026.

Show notes: 

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

In this powerful episode of The Purposeful Investor, host Aden Wilkins welcomes Tracy Hall - author, keynote speaker, and survivor of one of Australia’s most prolific con men. Tracy shares her deeply personal story of losing her life savings, and the psychological toll it took. Together, Aden and Tracy explore the emotional aftermath, the process of rebuilding trust, and the practical steps everyone can take to protect themselves and loved ones from financial fraud.

Tracy sheds light on the tactics scammers use, from emotional manipulation to advanced social engineering, and discusses her advocacy work in raising awareness about modern-day scams, including emerging threats like “pig butchering” and sextortion scams targeting young people. The episode also highlights the crucial role of financial advisors, the importance of reporting scams, and how victims can reclaim their confidence and security.

Summary

0:00-1:04 Introduction
1:04-2:07 Wins of the Week
2:07-2:35 Tracy’s experience 
2:35-4:48 Tracy’s relationship with “Max Tavita” (Hamish McLaren) 
4:48-5:03 Hamish’s arrest and Tracy’s shock  
5:03-7:12 Financial, psychological, and personal impacts  
7:12-10:58 Support from other victims and the importance of not blaming oneself  
10:58-15:23 Strategies, seeking professional help, and life changes  
15:23-18:24 Finding the confidence to become an advocate in this space  
18:24-24:05 The psychology of scams

24:05-28:13 Practical steps to protect yourself
28:13-31:38 The role financial advisers can play in client safety and building trust  
31:38-37:33 Tracy’s journey regaining trust 
37:33-43:19 Modern scams
43:19-46:29 Prevention methods to use at home
46:29-47:34 Key takeaways
47:34-48:22 Closing remarks

Resources: 

Who the Hell is Hamish Podcast - Who the Hell is Hamish? - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Tracy's Website - Tracy Hall

Tracy's LinkedIn Page - Tracy Hall | LinkedIn

The Last Victim - The Last Victim: A serial con man. The ultimate betrayal. An unbreakable woman. The full story behind the relationship made famous by the hit podcast Who the Hell is Hamish? eBook : Hall, Tracy, Land, Summer: Amazon.com.au: Kindle Store

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

In this bonus series, Aden is joined by Damon Sugden, Principal Wealth Adviser at Capital Partners, who reflects on his unique journey from international ballroom stages to financial advisory. Discover how a life in the performing arts shaped his mindset, why financial independence is central to his values, and how he helps clients reimagine retirement. 

Damon shares how personal loss inspires his work, the meaning behind being a “Family Steward” and “Freedom Seeker,” and his ongoing passion for empowering others through education and connection.

• (00:41 – 02:39) Life on stage: Damon’s ballroom dance career
• (02:46 – 03:12) Transitioning from performer to financial adviser
• (03:12 – 04:04) Getting started at Capital Partners
• (04:18 – 05:22) Transferable skills from dance to advising 
• (05:27 – 05:55) Why client relationships matter most
• (06:10 – 07:16) Redefining retirement and helping others live fully in later life
• (07:30 – 08:13) Running educational workshops 
• (08:33 – 09:26) A favourite Capital Partners memory and company culture
• (09:39 – 10:44) Damon’s money personality
• (10:56 – 11:18) If not a financial adviser, what would Damon do next 

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

Aden sits down with mergers and acquisitions expert Brendan Cockram from Octavian Group and senior wealth adviser James McLeod to unpack the strategy behind a successful business exit. 

They explore how to prepare your business for sale, determine its true value, and structure deals that balance risk and reward. 

From understanding key valuation drivers to timing the market and navigating buyer negotiations, this episode reveals the playbook every business owner should know before selling. Plus, the trio discusses emotional readiness, succession planning, and how to ensure your life goals and financial future stay aligned long after the deal is done.

• 3:40–8:45 Brendan’s journey into M&A and founding Octavian Group
• 8:45–14:10 Where to start when planning a business sale
• 14:10–19:30 Personal and financial readiness before selling
• 19:30–27:55 How to value a business and understand multiples
• 27:55–35:40 Finding and approaching potential buyers
• 35:40–42:50 Structuring deals and managing key-person risk
• 42:50–49:15 Tax planning and maximizing after-sale outcomes
• 49:15–53:40 Why every business should stay “sale ready”

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

In this episode of The Purposeful Investor, Aden is joined by Dr. Steve Garth and Investment Coordinator Nick Menegola to demystify cryptocurrency and its place in modern investment portfolios. The trio explores what cryptocurrency is, its origins, and why it captures so much attention—and caution—in the financial world. They discuss the risks, volatility, and lack of intrinsic value in assets like Bitcoin, compare crypto to gold, and offer practical advice for investors considering a speculative "play money" approach.

• 2:58-3:34 The value of goal setting and future planning  
• 3:34-8:17 What is cryptocurrency?  
• 8:17-12:43 The emergence of cryptocurrency as an asset class  
• 12:43-18:52 How cryptocurrency works for investors  
• 18:52-20:16 Liquidity and risk  
• 20:16-26:28 Comparing cryptocurrency to gold and FOMO  
• 26:28-31:03 Risks in cryptocurrency  
• 31:03-38:22 Retail vs. sophisticated investors  
• 38:22-46:13 Comparing cryptocurrency to traditional assets  
• 46:13-47:35 Advice for different investor profiles  

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

In this episode of The Purposeful Investor, Aden and David are joined by Investment Coordinator Nick Menegola to demystify the world of private credit (private debt). 

Together, they break down what private credit is, how it differs from traditional banking, and why it’s gaining so much attention in financial headlines. 

The team shares real-life case studies, including lessons from the GFC and the recent La Trobe fund developments, and explores the crucial topics of liquidity, risk, and regulatory oversight. 

• 2:58-3:34 The value of goal setting and future planning
• 3:34-8:17 What is private credit?
• 8:17-12:43 The emergence of private credit as an asset class
• 12:43-18:52 How private credit works for investors
• 18:52-20:16 Liquidity and risk
• 20:16-26:28 The La Trobe fund case study
• 26:28-31:03 Risks in private credit
• 31:03-38:22 Retail vs. sophisticated investors
• 38:22-46:13 Comparing private credit to equities
• 46:13-47:35 Advice for different investor profiles

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

Join Aden for our bonus series, where he sits down with Rob McCaw. Rob shares his inspiring career path, from uncertain beginnings to becoming a dedicated wealth adviser at Capital Partners. 

Discover how his 20 years of experience as an umpire have shaped his approach to financial guidance, client relationships, and professional growth. 

Rob reveals the importance of being a "safe pair of hands" for clients, the nuances of retirement planning, and what it means to be a family-focused financial guardian. 

This episode offers insights into the human side of financial advising and the meaningful connections that drive success.

• (00:00 - 0:02:18) Rob McCaw and his career journey
• (02:18 - 04:34) The parallels between umpiring and financial advising
• (04:34 - 06:13) Rob's passion for building relationships
• (06:13 - 08:45) The importance of being a "safe pair of hands" for clients
• (08:45 - 11:45) The concept of retirement planning
• (11:45 - 13:35) Rob's money personality

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/

Ask a question or send feedback

In this episode of The Purposeful Investor, hosts Aden and David dive deep into the timeless lessons from the classic book "The Millionaire Next Door." 

Discover the surprising habits and mindsets that set true millionaires apart from the crowd, why high income doesn’t always equal wealth, and how to avoid common financial pitfalls. From the illusion of affluence to the power of living below your means, Aden and David share practical tips, real-life examples, and actionable strategies to help you build lasting financial independence. 

• 3:00-7:00 Introduction to "The Millionaire Next Door" and its relevance
• 7:00-15:00 Key lessons from the book
• 15:00-25:00 Success behaviours of real millionaires
• 25:00-32:00 The quiet rich vs. the loud rich
• 32:00-38:00 Common financial mistakes
• 38:00-40:00 Takeaways, practical tips, and episode wrap-up

Read: The Millionaire Next Door

The Purposeful Investor Podcast is a public service provided for Australian investors wanting to make smart decisions with their money, avoid costly mistakes, look after the people they care about, and, have a great life!

We draw on over 30 years of experience from David Andrew and the Capital Partners team.

For more information on Capital Partners' award winning team, visit capital-partners.com.au.

Have a question? Email us [email protected].

This episode provides general advice only. We do not consider your personal circumstances when we share this information. Always refer to your financial adviser for advice about your personal circumstances. 

Capital Partners Consulting Pty Ltd AFSL 227148 trading as Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers ABN 27 086 670 788.

Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios: https://podwavestudios.au/