The Joyful Frugalista: Recent Episodes
joyfulfrugalista
Serina Bird, author of The Joyful Frugalista, chats with friends, family, and the famous about frugality, investing, wellbeing and living sustainability.
Serina is joined by returning guest Lacey Filipich, award‑winning financial educator, author and founder of Money School. Together, they unpack why financial literacy is still so challenging for many Australians, why it's a global problem, the difference between financial counselling and financial advice, and how finfluencers are reshaping the landscape - for better and worse. Lacey also discusses a new white paper she co-authored on strengthening adult financial capability.
Topics Covered* Financial literacy gaps in Australia * Financial counselling vs financial advice * How financial stress affects decision‑making * The rise (and risks) of finfluencers * Why independent financial education matters * Lacey’s new white paper on money coaching.
About Lacey FilipichLacey is a financial educator, TEDx speaker, bestselling author and founder of Money School. She teaches practical money skills to adults and parents and is a co‑author of a new white paper on improving financial capability in Australia.
Resources* White Paper: Financial Capability for All * National Debt Helpline (for free financial counselling) * Money School
Serina is joined by returning guest Lacey Filipich, award‑winning financial educator, author and founder of Money School. Together they unpack why financial literacy is still so challenging for many Australians, why it's a global problem, the difference between financial counselling and financial advice, and how finfluencers are reshaping the landscape: for better and worse. Lacey also discusses a new white paper she co-authored on strengthening adult financial capability.
Topics Covered* Financial literacy gaps in Australia * Financial counselling vs financial advice * How financial stress affects decision‑making * The rise (and risks) of finfluencers * Why independent financial education matters * Lacey’s new white paper on money coaching.
About Lacey FilipichLacey is a financial educator, TEDx speaker, bestselling author and founder of Money School. She teaches practical money skills to adults and parents and is a co‑author of a new white paper on improving financial capability in Australia.
Resources* White Paper: Financial Capability for All * National Debt Helpline (for free financial counselling) * Money School
In this episode, Serina Bird chats with bestselling author and entrepreneurship expert Bernadette Schwerdt about the secrets behind Australia’s most successful online founders. Drawing on insights from her latest book, Secrets of the New Online Entrepreneurs, Bernadette shares the mindset shifts, digital strategies, and real‑world stories that reveal how everyday people are building extraordinary businesses in the new digital economy.
Topics covered* The traits shared by Australia’s most successful online founders * Why persistence matters * How to choose the right business model for the life you want * The role of authenticity and personal brand * What founders wish they knew before partnering up * How digital creators turn attention into income * The biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make
About Bernadette SchwerdtBernadette Schwerdt is an award‑winning Australian entrepreneur, bestselling author, and one of the country’s leading experts on online business and copywriting. She is the founder of the Australian School of Copywriting, a long‑time tutor at the Australian Writers’ Centre, and the ghostwriter behind several high‑profile business biographies including Catch of the Decade and How to Build a Business Others Want to Buy. With decades of experience interviewing founders, coaching authors, and analysing what makes digital businesses succeed, Bernadette brings a rare combination of storytelling, strategy, and practical wisdom to the world of entrepreneurship.
In this episode, Serina Bird chats with bestselling author and entrepreneurship expert Bernadette Schwerdt about the secrets behind Australia’s most successful online founders. Drawing on insights from her latest book, Secrets of the New Online Entrepreneurs, Bernadette shares the mindset shifts, digital strategies, and real‑world stories that reveal how everyday people are building extraordinary businesses in the new digital economy.
Topics covered* The traits shared by Australia’s most successful online founders * Why persistence matters * How to choose the right business model for the life you want * The role of authenticity and personal brand * What founders wish they knew before partnering up * How digital creators turn attention into income * The biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make
About Bernadette SchwerdtBernadette Schwerdt is an award‑winning Australian entrepreneur, bestselling author, and one of the country’s leading experts on online business and copywriting. She is the founder of the Australian School of Copywriting, a long‑time tutor at the Australian Writers’ Centre, and the ghostwriter behind several high‑profile business biographies including Catch of the Decade and How to Build a Business Others Want to Buy. With decades of experience interviewing founders, coaching authors, and analysing what makes digital businesses succeed, Bernadette brings a rare combination of storytelling, strategy, and practical wisdom to the world of entrepreneurship.
In this episode, Serina Bird chats with Captain FI about how the financial independence movement has shaped his life, the importance of intentional spending, and how to achieve financial freedom while maintaining a balanced life.
Key topics* Captain FI's journey from aviation to FI * The importance of intentional spending and lifestyle choices * Building passive income streams through investing and online business * The psychological aspects of FIRE and finding purpose after financial independence * Practical tips for frugal living and maintaining quality of life
ResourcesCaptain FI Podcast
Serina sits down with award‑winning urban designer, housing expert and author Lucinda Hartley to unpack Australia’s broken path to home ownership — and why the old rulebook no longer works.
Drawing on insights from her new book Finding Home, Lucinda explains why housing has become so unaffordable, how the Great Australian Dream was shaped by post‑war policy (and even anti‑communist sentiment), and why so many of us are still chasing a version of “home” that doesn’t match how we actually live today.
Key Takeaways* The Great Australian Dream was never about the quarter‑acre block — it was about housing security, and the story needs updating * Australia now has the largest homes in the world, even as families get smaller * Most people buy homes based on inherited expectations, not on how they actually live * Space is often a design problem, not a square‑metre problem — and neighbourhood amenities can replace private space * Lifestyle isn’t about décor; it’s about your daily routines, rituals and needs * Buying on the fringe can work — but only if the infrastructure is committed, not just promised * Home doesn’t have to be forever; thinking in chapters can make housing more affordable and flexible * There are now innovative financial models for home ownership
About the Author — Lucinda HartleyLucinda Hartley is an award‑winning urban designer, housing expert and serial entrepreneur named one of Australia’s Top 100 Most Influential Women by the AFR. With 20 years’ experience shaping cities and neighbourhoods around the world, she has worked on major projects for Google, contributed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals for Cities, and co‑founded Zeroo Home Loans, an innovative equity‑growth model helping Australians access home ownership.
Her new book, Finding Home, is a practical, evidence‑based guide to choosing a home that fits the life you want to live — not the outdated dream you’ve been told to chase.
ResourcesLucinda Hartley's Book: Finding Home
Zeroo Home Loans
UN Sustainable Development Goals for Cities
Serina sits down with award‑winning urban designer, housing expert and author Lucinda Hartley to unpack Australia’s broken path to home ownership — and why the old rulebook no longer works.
Drawing on insights from her new book Finding Home, Lucinda explains why housing has become so unaffordable, how the Great Australian Dream was shaped by post‑war policy (and even anti‑communist sentiment), and why so many of us are still chasing a version of “home” that doesn’t match how we actually live today.
Key Takeaways* The Great Australian Dream was never about the quarter‑acre block — it was about housing security, and the story needs updating * Australia now has the largest homes in the world, even as families get smaller * Most people buy homes based on inherited expectations, not on how they actually live * Space is often a design problem, not a square‑metre problem — and neighbourhood amenities can replace private space * Lifestyle isn’t about décor; it’s about your daily routines, rituals and needs * Buying on the fringe can work — but only if the infrastructure is committed, not just promised * Home doesn’t have to be forever; thinking in chapters can make housing more affordable and flexible * There are now innovative financial models for home ownership
About the Author — Lucinda HartleyLucinda Hartley is an award‑winning urban designer, housing expert and serial entrepreneur named one of Australia’s Top 100 Most Influential Women by the AFR. With 20 years’ experience shaping cities and neighbourhoods around the world, she has worked on major projects for Google, contributed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals for Cities, and co‑founded Zeroo Home Loans, an innovative equity‑growth model helping Australians access home ownership.
Her new book, Finding Home, is a practical, evidence‑based guide to choosing a home that fits the life you want to live — not the outdated dream you’ve been told to chase.
In this episode, Serina is joined by Jessica Brady, financial educator, founder, podcaster and now author of Get Growing: A No‑Nonsense Guide to Cultivating Wealth and Financial Freedom.
Jess has spent more than two decades helping Australians transform their relationship with money through human, neuroscience‑informed coaching. Her book uses a gardening metaphor to help us understand our financial “roots,” clear out the “dirt,” and grow a flourishing money life — even if we’ve made mistakes or feel like we’re “shocking with money.”
Topics How our early experiences shape lifelong money beliefs “Money is messy and complex and emotional and deeply human.”* * The systemic inequalities that make wealth harder for some groups, especially women, First Nations people and migrants. * Accessibility, overwhelm, and the risks of algorithm‑driven advice. * ‘Money in the Wild’ stories, that contain real, raw, relatable money stories that show we’re not alone. * Why we judge ourselves (and others) based on visible money markers such as shiny new cars to “vintage” ones that rattle to the dog park. * The ‘money monster’ concept — naming the voice that derails your financial decisions. * Why money is a skill, not a personality trait.
About Jessica BradyJessica Brady is the founder of the Evergreen Money Club and creator of the Greenhouse Money Program. She is also host of the Financially Fierce podcast. Her new book, Get Growing, blends behavioural science, storytelling and practical tools to help readers build confidence, clarity and long‑term financial wellbeing.
In this episode, Serina is joined by Jessica Brady, financial educator, founder, podcaster and now author of Get Growing: A No‑Nonsense Guide to Cultivating Wealth and Financial Freedom.
Jess has spent more than two decades helping Australians transform their relationship with money through human, neuroscience‑informed coaching. Her book uses a gardening metaphor to help us understand our financial “roots,” clear out the “dirt,” and grow a flourishing money life — even if we’ve made mistakes or feel like we’re “shocking with money.”
Topics How our early experiences shape lifelong money beliefs “Money is messy and complex and emotional and deeply human.”* * The systemic inequalities that make wealth harder for some groups, especially women, First Nations people and migrants. * Accessibility, overwhelm, and the risks of algorithm‑driven advice. * ‘Money in the Wild’ stories, that contain real, raw, relatable money stories that show we’re not alone. * Why we judge ourselves (and others) based on visible money markers such as shiny new cars to “vintage” ones that rattle to the dog park. * The ‘money monster’ concept — naming the voice that derails your financial decisions. * Why money is a skill, not a personality trait.
About Jessica BradyJessica Brady is the founder of the Evergreen Money Club and creator of the Greenhouse Money Program. She is also host of the Financially Fierce podcast. Her new book, Get Growing, blends behavioural science, storytelling and practical tools to help readers build confidence, clarity and long‑term financial wellbeing.
Serina welcomes back the incomparable Kate Toon: award‑winning author, digital marketing educator, SEO queen, community builder, and now three‑time published author. Kate joins the show to talk about her new book, Six Figures in Sales, which outlines an approach that features selling with heart, humour and humanity.
💡 Key Takeaways* Sales has a bad reputation, but selling doesn't have to be like that * Ethical selling is about helping people make confident decisions * People buy based on emotion, identity, and belonging * Familiarity builds trust (hello, Apple packaging) * Rapport matters more than charisma * Negative reviews are powerful, and honesty helps prevent them * Black Friday and FOMO tactics can trigger regret purchases * Authenticity builds stronger customer relationships than perfection * Sharing failures creates connection * You can learn to sell well: it’s not an innate talent
🔑 Keywordssales psychology, ethical selling, rapport, digital marketing, authenticity, small business, entrepreneurship, capitalism, consumer behaviour, Kate Toon, Six Figures in Sales, marketing mindset
🎧 Sound Bites"People like buying things — it’s dopamine straight to the brain."
"Familiarity can be more powerful than price or features."
"Being yourself is the real formula for selling well."
Serina welcomes back the incomparable Kate Toon: award‑winning author, digital marketing educator, SEO queen, community builder, and now three‑time published author. Kate joins the show to talk about her new book, Six Figures in Sales, which outlines an approach that features selling with heart, humour and humanity.
💡 Key Takeaways* Sales has a bad reputation, but selling doesn't have to be like that * Ethical selling is about helping people make confident decisions * People buy based on emotion, identity, and belonging * Familiarity builds trust (hello, Apple packaging) * Rapport matters more than charisma * Negative reviews are powerful, and honesty helps prevent them * Black Friday and FOMO tactics can trigger regret purchases * Authenticity builds stronger customer relationships than perfection * Sharing failures creates connection * You can learn to sell well: it’s not an innate talent
🔑 Keywordssales psychology, ethical selling, rapport, digital marketing, authenticity, small business, entrepreneurship, capitalism, consumer behaviour, Kate Toon, Six Figures in Sales, marketing mindset
🎧 Sound Bites"People like buying things — it’s dopamine straight to the brain."
"Familiarity can be more powerful than price or features."
"Being yourself is the real formula for selling well."
Sheridan Riles from Lost River in country New South Wales shares her insights on rural living, upcycling, frugal living, and community resilience. In this podcast, she talks about sustainable living, managing costs in rural Australia, and the importance of women in farming and community building.
🔑 Key topics* Rural living challenges and community resilience * Upcycling and sustainable home decor * Cost-saving tips for rural households * The role of women in Australian farming * Seasonal gardening and food preservation
Keywords
rural living, upcycling, frugal living, community, women in farming, sustainability, cost-saving tips, Australian agriculture
Sheridan Riles from Lost River in country New South Wales shares her insights on rural living, upcycling, frugal living, and community resilience. In this podcast, she talks about sustainable living, managing costs in rural Australia, and the importance of women in farming and community building.
🔑 Key topics* + Rural living challenges and community resilience + Upcycling and sustainable home decor + Cost-saving tips for rural households + The role of women in Australian farming + Seasonal gardening and food preservation
Keywords
rural living, upcycling, frugal living, community, women in farming, sustainability, cost-saving tips, Australian agriculture
In this podcast, Serina chats with Emma Edwards, writer, podcaster, financial behaviour educator, and author of The Wardrobe Project: A Year of Buying Less and Liking Yourself More and founder of The Broke Generation. Together, they explore the emotional side of clothing, the stories we attach to our wardrobes, and the surprising ways fashion becomes tangled with identity, self‑worth, and money.
Emma shares how a year‑long no‑buy challenge transformed far more than her closet. From body image and “flattering” rules baked in during the 90s, to revenge spending during lockdown, to the fantasy selves we try to purchase online, Emma unpacks the psychology behind why we buy, and why we keep buying even when we already have more than enough.
💡 Key Takeaways* Clothing is deeply emotional — especially for women * Many of us use fashion to patch over insecurity or identity gaps * The “rules” we learned in the 90s still shape how we dress today * Lockdown triggered revenge spending and fantasy‑self shopping * A no‑buy year creates space, quiet, and surprising self‑reflection * Using what you already have builds confidence and creativity * Outfit repeating is a privilege, not a problem * Consumption noise is loud, and peace comes from stepping back * You can’t buy your way into confidence * Gradual, subtle changes are more powerful than instant makeovers
🔑 Keywordsfashion psychology, emotional spending, body image, no‑buy challenge, wardrobe reset, identity, self‑worth, frugal fashion, sustainability, minimalism, The Wardrobe Project, Emma Edwards
Serina sits down with Emma Edwards, writer, podcaster, financial behaviour educator, and author of The Wardrobe Project: A Year of Buying Less and Liking Yourself More. Together, they explore the emotional side of clothing, the stories we attach to our wardrobes, and the surprising ways fashion becomes tangled with identity, self‑worth, and money.
Emma shares how a year‑long no‑buy challenge transformed far more than her closet. From body image and “flattering” rules baked in during the 90s, to revenge spending during lockdown, to the fantasy selves we try to purchase online, Emma unpacks the psychology behind why we buy, and why we keep buying even when we already have more than enough.
💡 Key Takeaways* Clothing is deeply emotional — especially for women * Many of us use fashion to patch over insecurity or identity gaps * The “rules” we learned in the 90s still shape how we dress today * Lockdown triggered revenge spending and fantasy‑self shopping * A no‑buy year creates space, quiet, and surprising self‑reflection * Using what you already have builds confidence and creativity * Outfit repeating is a privilege, not a problem * Consumption noise is loud — and peace comes from stepping back * You can’t buy your way into confidence * Gradual, subtle changes are more powerful than instant makeovers
🔑 Keywordsfashion psychology, emotional spending, body image, no‑buy challenge, wardrobe reset, identity, self‑worth, frugal fashion, sustainability, minimalism, The Wardrobe Project, Emma Edwards
In this episode of The Joyful Frugalista, Serina sits down with someone who has inspired her especially when it comes to startups and angel investing.
Nick McNaughton describes himself as “retired,” though anyone who knows him would say he’s simply entered a new, more self‑directed chapter of creativity and exploration. After decades as one of Canberra’s most influential innovation leaders (investor, mentor, venture fund CEO, and ecosystem builder), Nick has stepped back from formal roles to explore life on his own terms.
Part of that new chapter is his YouTube channel, Max.Trax.Relax, where he documents adventures, experiments, and reflections, including a thoughtful series on retirement.
Key Topics
- Nick McNaughton's journey from tech to investment
- The evolution of the technology industry over 50 years
- The Canberra innovation ecosystem and its success factors
- How to identify promising startups for investment
- The impact of AI on jobs, entrepreneurship, and society
- Strategies for a purposeful and balanced retirement
In this episode of The Joyful Frugalista, Serina sits down with someone who has inspired her especially when it comes to startups and angel investing.
Nick McNaughton describes himself as “retired,” though anyone who knows him would say he’s simply entered a new, more self‑directed chapter of creativity and exploration. After decades as one of Canberra’s most influential innovation leaders (investor, mentor, venture fund CEO, and ecosystem builder), Nick has stepped back from formal roles to explore life on his own terms.
Part of that new chapter is his YouTube channel, Max.Trax.Relax, where he documents adventures, experiments, and reflections, including a thoughtful series on retirement.
Key Topics
- Nick McNaughton's journey from tech to investment
- The evolution of the technology industry over 50 years
- The Canberra innovation ecosystem and its success factors
- How to identify promising startups for investment
- The impact of AI on jobs, entrepreneurship, and society
- Strategies for a purposeful and balanced retirement
James Wrigley, one of Australia’s most-followed financial advisers and author of Retire Life Ready: Practical Steps to Build Your Wealth and Live Your Ideal Retirement, joins The Joyful Frugalista to chat about demystifying retirement planning and challenge what a “good retirement” really looks like.
With over two decades of experience helping Australians take control of their finances, James shares a practical and realistic approach to retirement. This episode explores how to define an ideal retirement lifestyle, the role of superannuation and home ownership, balancing future goals with present enjoyment, and why retirement planning isn’t just about money, but also about choices, flexibility, and peace of mind.
💡 Key Takeaways* Retirement looks different for everyone * Superannuation plays a critical role * Reducing debt before retirement can significantly increase financial confidence and flexibility * It’s possible to plan for the future without sacrificing joy in the present * Good retirement planning also considers healthcare, legacy, and the next generation.
Topics We Cover* Retirement planning in Australia * How much money you need for a comfortable retirement * Superannuation tips and common retirement mistakes * Paying off your mortgage before retirement * Investment properties and retirement strategy * Healthcare costs in retirement * Early retirement vs balanced living * Estate planning, wills, and inheritance considerations * Practical financial advice for pre-retirees and retirees
Resources & Links 📘 Retire Life Ready* by James Wrigley * 🌐 James Wrigley – Financial Advice & Resources * 📱 Follow James Wrigley on Instagram * 📱 The Joyful Frugalista on Instagram
Listen & SubscribeLoved this episode of The Joyful Frugalista Podcast?
✅ Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations
✅ Share this episode with a friend planning their financial future
✅ Leave a rating or review to help more frugalistas find the show
✅ Join The Joyful Frugalista Facebook Group
James Wrigley, one of Australia’s most-followed financial advisers and author of Retire Life Ready: Practical Steps to Build Your Wealth and Live Your Ideal Retirement, joins The Joyful Frugalista to chat about demystifying retirement planning and challenge what a “good retirement” really looks like.
With over two decades of experience helping Australians take control of their finances, James shares a practical and realistic approach to retirement. This episode explores how to define an ideal retirement lifestyle, the role of superannuation and home ownership, balancing future goals with present enjoyment, and why retirement planning isn’t just about money, but also about choices, flexibility, and peace of mind.
💡 Key Takeaways* Retirement looks different for everyone * Superannuation plays a critical role * Reducing debt before retirement can significantly increase financial confidence and flexibility * It’s possible to plan for the future without sacrificing joy in the present * Good retirement planning also considers healthcare, legacy, and the next generation.
Topics We Cover* Retirement planning in Australia * How much money you need for a comfortable retirement * Superannuation tips and common retirement mistakes * Paying off your mortgage before retirement * Investment properties and retirement strategy * Healthcare costs in retirement * Early retirement vs balanced living * Estate planning, wills, and inheritance considerations * Practical financial advice for pre-retirees and retirees
Resources & Links 📘 Retire Life Ready* by James Wrigley * 🌐 James Wrigley – Financial Advice & Resources * 📱 Follow James Wrigley on Instagram * 📱 The Joyful Frugalista on Instagram
Listen & SubscribeLoved this episode of The Joyful Frugalista Podcast?
✅ Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations
✅ Share this episode with a friend planning their financial future
✅ Leave a rating or review to help more frugalistas find the show
✅ Join The Joyful Frugalista Facebook Group
Serina sits down with Virginia Wells, professional organiser and founder of WellSorted, to explore the deep emotional, psychological, and financial layers of clutter. From the hidden costs of “too much stuff” to the surprising ways clutter reflects our money mindset, Virginia brings compassion, clarity, and practical wisdom to a topic that affects almost everyone. Together, they unpack why Australians have more possessions than ever, how clutter creeps beyond our homes into our schedules and relationships, and why letting go can feel so hard.
💡 Key Takeaways* Clutter has emotional, psychological, and financial costs * Australia is following the US in having some of the world’s largest home footprints * Clutter extends beyond physical items into schedules, inboxes, relationships, and beliefs * We often acquire things from fear, impulse, or scarcity mindset * Decluttering value personalities influence what we keep and why * Hidden financial costs include late fees, duplicate purchases, and storage units * Clutter can strain relationships and increase anxiety and depression * Creativity and resourcefulness help overcome “just in case” thinking * Community groups like Buy Nothing and homesteading groups support circular living
Serina sits down with Virginia Wells, professional organiser and founder of WellSorted, to explore the deep emotional, psychological, and financial layers of clutter. From the hidden costs of “too much stuff” to the surprising ways clutter reflects our money mindset, Virginia brings compassion, clarity, and practical wisdom to a topic that affects almost everyone. Together, they unpack why Australians have more possessions than ever, how clutter creeps beyond our homes into our schedules and relationships, and why letting go can feel so hard.
💡 Key Takeaways* Clutter has emotional, psychological, and financial costs * Australia is following the US in having some of the world’s largest home footprints * Clutter extends beyond physical items into schedules, inboxes, relationships, and beliefs * We often acquire things from fear, impulse, or scarcity mindset * Decluttering value personalities influence what we keep and why * Hidden financial costs include late fees, duplicate purchases, and storage units * Clutter can strain relationships and increase anxiety and depression * Creativity and resourcefulness help overcome “just in case” thinking * Community groups like Buy Nothing and homesteading groups support circular living
Financial advisor and author of The Financial Reset: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life, Gemma Mitchell shares her insights on navigating financial upheaval during major life transitions—like divorce, job loss, or unexpected change. Drawing from her own experiences and professional expertise, Gemma shares details of her 12-step financial reset plan, designed to help listeners rebuild with clarity and confidence. 💡 Key Takeaways: * Financial resilience is essential during life transitions. * Small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful recovery. * You don’t need perfect goals to begin again. * The “slingshot moment” is a powerful metaphor for post-crisis growth. * A structured reset plan simplifies financial decision-making. * Superannuation is a cornerstone of long-term financial health. * Mindset influences every financial choice. * The “treat yourself” culture can sabotage progress. * Community support and resource-sharing are underrated tools. * Financial habits can be unlearned and reshaped.
In this episode of The Joyful Frugalista, Serina Bird is joined by Bryce Holdaway and Ben Kingsley — co-hosts of The Property Couch podcast and authors of How to Retire on $3,000 a Week. Together, they explore how everyday Australians can build long-term wealth through smart property investing.
Holdaway and Kingsley discuss the evolution of their investment philosophy, the importance of managing cash flow, and how to distinguish between good and bad debt. You’ll also hear practical strategies like the “seven day float,” and how offset accounts can offer financial flexibility and peace of mind in retirement.
💡 Topics
- Why cash flow is king in property investing
- The difference between good debt and bad debt
- How offset accounts can reduce interest and increase flexibility
- Why housing security is essential for retirement
- The power of the “seven day float” for managing spending
- How to avoid becoming a forced seller in a downturn
- Why property investing is a long-term game
In this episode of The Joyful Frugalista, Serina Bird is joined by Bryce Holdaway and Ben Kingsley — co-hosts of The Property Couch podcast and authors of How to Retire on $3,000 a Week. Together, they explore how everyday Australians can build long-term wealth through smart property investing.
Holdaway and Kingsley discuss the evolution of their investment philosophy, the importance of managing cash flow, and how to distinguish between good and bad debt. You’ll also hear practical strategies like the “seven day float,” and how offset accounts can offer financial flexibility and peace of mind in retirement.
💡 Discussion topics
- Why cash flow is king in property investing
- The difference between good debt and bad debt
- How offset accounts can reduce interest and increase flexibility
- Why housing security is essential for retirement
- The power of the “seven day float” for managing spending
- How to avoid becoming a forced seller in a downturn
- Why property investing is a long-term game
📌 Chapters:
07:30 – On Being a Podcaster
07:44 – Cash Flow Management
15:08 – Investment Property Costs
18:51 – Debt
21:31 – Accommodation in Retirement
25:38 – Offset Accounts
26:44 – Frugalista Tip
Join Serina Bird as she sits down with Mel Browne, author of Unf*ck Your Finances, to explore the importance of financial empowerment for women. In this episode, they cover financial literacy, superannuation, investing, frugal living, and the ways menopause and ageism can shape women’s financial journeys. Mel shares her personal experiences, unpacks how traditional gender roles have influenced women’s financial independence, and offers practical strategies to build wealth at any stage of life.
Key Takeaways:
- Financial literacy is essential for women’s empowerment.
- Traditional gender roles can limit women’s financial independence.
- Superannuation is a vital but often overlooked part of women’s financial planning.
- Investing is possible and rewarding at any age.
- Menopause and ageism can significantly affect career opportunities and finances.
- Frugal living can improve long-term financial health.
- Women often outperform men as investors due to disciplined strategies.
- Open conversations about money are key to financial confidence.
BONUS: Mel has prepared a list of resources for The Joyful Frugalista listeners, which you can find at https://www.melissabrowne.com.au/joyfulfrugalista.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Financial Empowerment for Women
02:22 Mel Browne's Journey and Passion for Financial Literacy
05:27 The financial implications of the trad wife movement
06:40 Superannuation
13:00 Investing: It's Never Too Late to Start
20:19 Menopause and Its Financial Impact on Women
25:23 Re-entering the Workforce: Ageism and Opportunities
26:46 Frugalista tip
Join Serina Bird as she sits down with Mel Browne, author of Unf*ck Your Finances, to explore the importance of financial empowerment for women. In this episode, they cover financial literacy, superannuation, investing, frugal living, and the ways menopause and ageism can shape women’s financial journeys. Mel shares her personal experiences, unpacks how traditional gender roles have influenced women’s financial independence, and offers practical strategies to build wealth at any stage of life.
Key Takeaways:
- Financial literacy is essential for women’s empowerment.
- Traditional gender roles can limit women’s financial independence.
- Superannuation is a vital but often overlooked part of women’s financial planning.
- Investing is possible and rewarding at any age.
- Menopause and ageism can significantly affect career opportunities and finances.
- Frugal living can improve long-term financial health.
- Women often outperform men as investors due to disciplined strategies.
- Open conversations about money are key to financial confidence.
BONUS: Mel has prepared a list of resources for The Joyful Frugalista listeners, which you can find at https://www.melissabrowne.com.au/joyfulfrugalista.
In this episode, Serina is joined by her former boss, Grant Dooley, whose real-life memoir Bomb Season in Jakarta is more gripping than an action spy thriller. A former Australian diplomat with postings in Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Jakarta, Grant takes us inside the high-stakes world of mid-2000s Australia-Indonesian diplomacy – a turbulent era of bombings, political unrest, and personal resilience, all while navigating life on dual diplomatic postings with his wife and children.
In this episode, Serina is joined by her former boss, Grant Dooley, whose real-life memoir Bomb Season in Jakarta is more gripping than any spy thriller. A former Australian diplomat with postings in Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Jakarta, Grant takes us inside the high-stakes world of mid-2000s Australia-Indonesian diplomacy – a turbulent era of bombings, political unrest, and personal resilience, all while navigating life on dual diplomatic postings with his wife and children.
Join Serina Bird as she welcomes back Roxanne Calder, Managing Director of EST10 and author of "Earning Power: Breaking Barriers and Building Wealth for Women." In this episode, they delve into the gender pay gap, the importance of self-advocacy, and practical steps women can take to boost their earnings. Roxanne shares insights from her new book, featuring stories from influential figures like Julia Ross and Philip Kearns.
Key Takeaways:
- The impact of the gender pay gap on women's lifetime earnings.
- Strategies for women to enhance their earning potential.
- The concept of the "glass cliff" and how to navigate it.
- The importance of networking for social capital and self-promotion.
Guest: Roxanne Calder - Managing Director of EST10 and author of "Earning Power."
WomenEmpowerment #EarningPower #GenderPayGap #Podcast
Join Serina Bird as she welcomes back Roxanne Calder, Managing Director of EST10 and author of "Earning Power: Breaking Barriers and Building Wealth for Women." In this episode, they delve into the gender pay gap, the importance of self-advocacy, and practical steps women can take to boost their earnings. Roxanne shares insights from her new book, featuring stories from influential figures like Julia Ross and Philip Kearns.
Key Takeaways:
- The impact of the gender pay gap on women's lifetime earnings.
- Strategies for women to enhance their earning potential.
- The concept of the "glass cliff" and how to navigate it.
- The importance of networking for social capital and self-promotion.
Guest: Roxanne Calder - Managing Director of EST10 and author of "Earning Power."
WomenEmpowerment #EarningPower #GenderPayGap #Podcast
This year marks 10 years of podcasting for Aussie Firebug, one of Australia’s original voices in the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement. From his early days tracking every cent to, working in the UK and (almost) reaching his FIRE goal, returning home to regional Victoria, and moving beyond retirement into new ventures, Aussie Firebug’s journey has evolved. Podcast host Serina Bird catches up with him in his hometown, explores his coworking space, and discovers why he’s no longer “obsessed” with the pursuit of financial independence—and what matters to him now.
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:10 The Journey of Aussie Firebug
06:56 Financial Independence and Life Changes
14:40 New Family Dynamics and Challenges
19:55 The Importance of Financial Security
24:52 Community and Family Support
30:07 Frugal Tips and Solar Energy Benefits
This year, Aussie Firebug celebrates a decade of podcasting about his Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) journey. Podcast host Serina Bird visits Aussie Firebug at his hometown in regional Victoria, tours his coworking space and finds out why it is no longer 'obsessive' about his journey towards F.I.R.E..
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:10 The Journey of Aussie Firebug
06:56 Financial Independence and Life Changes
14:40 New Family Dynamics and Challenges
19:55 The Importance of Financial Security
24:52 Community and Family Support
30:07 Frugal Tips and Solar Energy Benefits
Todd Polke is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and global wealth educator with over two decades of experience. He has guided thousands of investors in building high-performing portfolios and played a key role in facilitating more than $1.5 billion in investment opportunities worldwide. Todd is the founder of Portfolio Wealth, a regular commentator on Sky News and Your Money, and the author of Escape the Middle: Switch on Your Millionaire Mindset and Build Wealth that Outlives You. His mission is to empower people to think bigger, invest smarter, and create lasting financial freedom.
Todd Polke is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and global wealth educator with over two decades of experience. He has guided thousands of investors in building high-performing portfolios and has played a key role in facilitating more than $1.5 billion in investment opportunities worldwide. Todd is the founder of Portfolio Wealth, a regular commentator on Sky News and Your Money, and the author of Escape the Middle: Switch on Your Millionaire Mindset and Build Wealth that Outlives You. His mission is to empower people to think bigger, invest smarter, and create lasting financial freedom.
How important is purpose and mindset to achieving abundance? And what is abundance anyway? Emma Lagerlow is a wealth and mindset coach and author of Worthy & Wealthy: Discovering Abundance and Fulfilment Beyond Money. She has some great insights on how to reorient one's life to live an intentional life, as well as a valuable frugalista tip that involves an iPhone.
Our lives don't always go as planned, and often we need to rebuild. How should people, especially women, do this? In this podcast, licensed financial adviser and author Helen Baker shares tips from her latest book, money for life: how to build financial security from firm foundations, including why owning a home is important for women.
How important is purpose and mindset to achieving abundance? And what is abundance anyway? Emma Lagerlow is a wealth and mindset coach and author of Worthy & Wealthy: Discovering Abundance and Fulfilment Beyond Money. She has some great insights about how to reorient to live an intentional life, and a great frugalista tip that involves an iPhone.
If you are passionate about reducing food waste then this is a podcast for you. Dr Ananya Bhattacharya is a senior lecturer at Monash Business School and passionate researcher about food supply chain/food waste. She published multiple academic articles on food supply chain/food waste on causes and consequences of food waste and how food waste happens in different downstream stages or at the interfaces. In this podcast we talk about reducing food waste - especially in the food industry.
Many people love to take photos, but not everyone can make a career out of it. In this episode, Scott Leggo - former diplomat and RAAF veteran and now an award-winning photographer - shares his insights on how good savings practices have set him up in business and in life.
Kate Toon is an award-winning business mentor and digital marketing coach. Her Stay Tooned group of companies include the Digital Marketing Collective, The Clever Copywriting School, and The Recipe for SEO Success. In this podcast, she shares insights from her latest book: Six Figure$ While You Sleep: how to turn your services and skills into high-profit, low-effort digital products.
Saving money runs in the family, and in this episode Serina talks with her sister - Spring Bird - about clothes swapping and saving money at Christmas.
You've bought a property. Now what? In this podcast, OX Rooms (Online Exchange) cofounder Matthew Carmody talks about some common pitfalls in buying and selling property, and how to avoid them. Matthew is a former commercial and residential real estate lawyer and three-time winner of the REIACT Awards for Excellence – Solicitor of the Year award. Passionate about property and conveyancing, he and his wife Em cofounded OX Rooms to bring innovation to the conveyancing process and provide greater transparency.
In this episode, author and founder of Pivot Wealth Ben Nash shares his strategies for getting to a million dollars - and beyond. Ben has been listed as part of Australia’s most influential Financial Advisers for seven consecutive years, and awarded by the Independent Financial Adviser as Australia’s Best Client Servicing Financial Adviser. He is author of Replace Your Salary by Investing, Unstuck, and his latest book – Virgin Millionaire: The Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Million and Beyond.
James Millard is Director of financial advice and mortgage broking firm Sufficient Funds, and author of Insufficient Funds: Make the Right Money Decisions to Bring Your Big Plans to Life. In this podcast, he talks about how to focus on what's important when building wealth.
Does your idea of financial independence also involve lots of travel? Brenda James, founder of FIRESPark Retreat and Travel Has My Heart Travel Planning, loves travelling and has visited 100 countries over 25 years of travelling. She's got some good ways to save money, including maximising frequent flyer points, creating good itineraries and looking for the best value for money.
Téa Angelos, founder and CEO of the Smart Women Society, discusses how women can get smarter about their finances. Téa has helped more than half a million women get smarter about their finances, careers, well-being, and relationships. Téa is the author of Smart Moves: Simple Ways to Take Control of Your Life.
Are you dreaming of a holiday? Serina and her husband Neil talk about how they save money on cruising holidays.
What are the tips and tricks for buying property the right way? There are many myths, many of which are not shared by experts. In this podcast, Cake Bakos and Pete Wargent, authors of The Buy Right Approach to Property Investing, share some of their knowledge about buying property and profiting from it.
In the Great Depression, many Australian families survived by hunting, eating and selling rabbits. With the number of introduced, feral animals increasing in Australia's fragile ecosystem, could eating these animals be a frugal option in tough times? In this episode, Serina talks with Phoebe Youd, President of the ACT/Snowy Mountains Branch of the Australian Deer Association about her role in promoting venison diplomacy.
Do you plan to work forever? Or would you like to be able to leave work sooner? Popular Tik Tok, Instagrammer and podcaster Natasha Etschmann (aka Tash invests), discusses her recent book, How Not to Work Forever, coauthored with Ana Kresina.
What if your boyfriend, girlfriend, partner, or spouse wasn't who they said they were? That happened to Tracy Hall, who learnt the man she knew as Max was really Hamish - after he was arrested. Not only that, but Hamish cleared out her life savings. In this podcast, Serina talks to Tracy Hall about her new book The Last Victim: The full story behind the relationship made famous by the hit podcast Who the Hell is Hamish? Tracy talks honestly about her experience, the red flags that she recognised afterwards, and shared her passion for financial literacy.
Discussion with Scott on FIRE, Bob Dae from the Melbourne FIRE Brigade, Captain FI and The Joyful Frugalista about financial independence. Recorded on 4 May 2024 at the FIRESpark 2024 retreat.
Can a home loan ever be a happy experience? Atelier Weath Managing Director Aaron Christie-David chats about his book, The Happy Home Loan Handbook, how to get a home loan and how to buy successfully at auction.
Is it too late to start saving? Or are you hoping to one day win the lotto or receive an inheritance? In this podcast, Serina chats with Paul Benson about life, wishful thinking and beginning to save and invest at any age.
Paul is a certified financial planner with over 20 years of experience. He writes Sunday's Ask an Expert column across the Fairfax network of newspapers. He is the host of the Financial Autonomy podcast, which focuses on strategies to help you make choices in life, and he is the author of Financial Autonomy: The money book that gives you choice.
While The Beatles might have said that money can't buy love, Kate Campbell is a financial educator who shares how good financial stewardship can help to 'buy' happiness. Kate is a writer, author, course creator and podcaster, who runs the Rask online community. She is the author of Buying Happiness: Learn to invest your time and money better.
When was the last time you asked for a rate review? Rang your energy company? Or changed your NBN plan? Serina Bird (aka The Joyful Frugalista) did all three of these recently and shares how she did it.
Pascale Helyar-Moray is an entrepreneur and startup queen. She is the founder and CEO of Super-Rewards, which has recently been rebranded as Grow My Money. On this podcast, she talks about compound interest, the importance of paying off your mortgage early, superannuation, and tips for Black Friday sales.
The cost of living crisis is biting especially hard for those with kids - or those thinking of having children. Ana Kresina is a financial educator and author of Kids Ain’t Cheap. She works in the financial technology industry and is cohost of Australia’s leading podcast, the Get Rich Slow Club. She also documents her journey to financial independence online.
How will AI change our lives? And can we use it for creating abundance, be it for learning to budget or to invest? Donna McGeorge is author of 11 books and publications, including bestseller The ChatGPT Revolution. And in this podcast, we do a deep dive into ChatGBT and how it works (and doesn't).
Kate Toon is an award-winning business mentor and digital marketing coach. Her Stay Tooned group of companies include the Digital Marketing Collective, The Clever Copywriting School, and The Recipe for SEO Success. She’s the author of Six Figures in School Hours: How to run a successful business and still be a good parent (2023). And in this podcast, she has an authentic conversation about money, parenting, SEO and overcoming limiting beliefs around money.
In this podcast, Serina chats with friend and sustainability advocate Mia Swainson about ways to save money and the environment. Mia is a freelance writer and successful entrepreneur passionate about sustainable living. Mia is President of the Canberra Environment Centre and founding chair of Canberra's Zero Waste Revolution. She designs and delivers community workshops in Canberra and the region on how people can halve their household waste. And she is the author of Happy Planet Living: Simple Ways to Live a Climate-Positive Lifestyle and Make a Big Difference.
Simon Ree is the author of the #1 best-selling book The Tao Of Trading and the founder of taooftrading.com. He has three decades of experience in the financial markets, having previously held senior positions at Goldman Sachs and Citi. His vision is to help people live more creative, joyful and inspired lives by alleviating the burden of financial stress that weighs so many people down.
Celebrations! In this podcast, Serina recaps three and a bit years of podcasting - and she shares details of her new book. How to Pay Your Mortgage Off in Ten Years (Even When Interest Rates Are Going Up) is in bookstores from 25 July.
Image by Akka Ballenger
Understanding tax is important to building wealth. On this podcast, Serina chats with her accountant - Scott Ellis - about ways to minimise tax and build abundance. Scott is an accountant at Les Ellis & Associates Pty. He has advised Serina on tax issues for almost 20 years.
In tough economic times, there is still easy money to be had. Bill-buster and money-saving nerd Joel Gibson is Australia's shares tips for how to reduce your bills and find money. Joel is a regular in the SMH and The Age, on Today, and on 2GB, 4BC and ABC Radio. In 2019 he wrote KILL BILLS, and now he's updated, expanded and simplified his money-saving system for the post-COVID cost of living crisis in his new book, Easy Money: 7 Steps to Bust Your Bills.
Ever bought something you thought was a bargain that ended up being anything but? Financial educator, commentator and author Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon chats about the cost of living crisis, bargain-hunting mentality and bargain regret (aka #frugalfail).
CEO of Super-Rewards, Pascale Helyar-Moray, is passionate about helping to achieve greater financial equality. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about the gender pay gap, superannuation and women, and her experience in deciding to found her startup to do something about this.
This podcast is brought to you with the support of Super-Rewards.
What conversations should we be having around money? And how do we have them? In this podcast, Serina chats with money educator and communicator Vanessa Stoykov about her new book, The Five Conversations About Money That Will Radically Change Your Life.
Did you know that 75% of people believe they should have conversations about inheritance before someone passes away? And 53% of people said that the worst deal breaker in a partner was infidelity, with financial irresponsibility being a second factor at 25%?
How is fintech changing how we bank? And do we even need a bank account? (Spoiler: many people in the world don't even have a bank account, yet still manage to regularly send money to family overseas.) In this podcast, Serina chats with friend Harold Dimpel, a mobile payment industry entrepreneur with 17 years of experience in fintech.
How do our beliefs, including inherited beliefs, affect our relationship with money? In this podcast, Evan Lucas shares some of his behavioural finance knowledge. Evan is Head of Strategy at Invest SMART and a regular commentator on ABC television and radio, TODAY, The Project and SKY News. He is the author of Mind Over Money: Why understanding your money behaviour will improve your financial freedom.
Can you bring your abundance into your life? And can you make money doing what brings you joy? Suzy Cherub is an international award-winning psychic medium, published author, speaker and intuitive coach. She was awarded International Psychics Association Psychic of the Year 2014 (Australia. Suzy is a successful businesswoman and real estate investor who left a highly paid-public service career to follow her calling.
Ever been cornered into a timeshare presentation? That was our experience on our September visit to Florida. Find out how it went, how it stacked up - and how we got out of it. In this podcast, Serina chats with her husband, Neil, about their experience.
How can you attract real wealth into your life? In this podcast, Steve McKnight, author of the bestselling book From 0 to 130 Properties in 3.5 years, shares some insights from his new book - Money Magnet: How to Attract and Keep a Fortune that Counts. And he also shares some never-before-revealed secrets from his childhood as well.
My husband, Neil, and I recently travelled to Orlando, Florida, to attend #fincon2022 (a conference for money content creators aka money nerds). And we had a bit of a holiday. In this podcast, we talk about how we saved money on flights, accommodation, cars and sightseeing.
Val Dempsey is Senior Australian of the Year 2022. She has spent over 50 years volunteering with St John Ambulance, including more recently during bushfires and floods. In this podcast, she chats about going to London to represent Australia at the Queen's funeral, bumping into a world leader (literally), why everyone who drives should learn first aid, plus a fabulous frugalista tip that involves bling.
Ever wondered if the problems of accessing things like lettuce are just an Australian problem or a global one? And whether food prices will go up or down? Or what about the facts facing food waste? In this podcast, Serina chats with Professor Johannas le Coutre, who is Professor Food & Health at UNSW. His research is based on cellular agriculture to strengthen food security and alleviate the agricultural burden on the environment. Professor le Coutre holds a PhD in biophysics and has an extensive and impressive CV that includes working in the US, Switzerland, England and Tokyo. Before joining UNSW, in addition to his research activities, he served as the Secretary-General for Nestlé’s Scientific Advisory board and as coordinator of the International Nutrition Symposium, an annual event featuring world-leading scientists debating critical topics in food and nutrition.
One of the biggest issues affecting our finances isn't our job or our investments - rather, it's our romantic relationships (or search for them). In this podcast, empath and internationally acclaimed life advisor Suzannah Galland talks about her experiences coaching clients to avoid scams and unhealthy relationships. Suzannah leads her clients to achieve breakthroughs in all aspects of their lives. Through conscious mindfulness, Suzannah guides others on their journey to happiness and fulfilment. Suzannah has written for publications including Huffington Post, Harper’s Bazaar, Thrive Global and Medium. She has been featured in Forbes, Vogue, New York Magazine, USA Today and is co-author of Goop’s The Sex Issue. Suzannah has appeared on the Today Show and is a frequent guidance expert on America’s Next Top Model.
During COVID, friends Nicolle Hood and Annie Shoen felt that their (combined) seven children were beginning to act entitled. Specifically, they weren't doing much housework - and they thought their parents could buy virtually anything at the click of a button. Realising there was a bigger problem around financial literacy for children, the pair decided to create an app - My First Nest Egg. In this podcast, Nicolle and Annie discuss incentivising housework through gamification, teaching financial literacy and lean innovation.
This podcast was recorded live at #fincon22, and the sound quality is less than perfect. We apologise and hope you will still enjoy the messages.
Love the sound of the My First Nest Egg app and want to use it? Use the promo code JOYFUL to use it for free.
Can you earn a solid income from freelance writing, including about personal finance? You can, and that is the reality for Laura Gariepy, who began taking freelance writing seriously when she took a four-month sabbatical from work that ended up becoming permanent. Laura is the founder and owner of Every Day by the Lake. In addition to being a freelance writer, she is also a writing coach. This podcast was recorded during #fincon22, a conference for money nerds.
When a couple separates, they will often speak to a lawyer. But they are less likely to speak to a financial planner, despite the uncoupling having a profound effect on women and men. In this podcast, financial adviser Helen Baker talks about issues women must consider when building their wealth - and ensuring they rebuild after separation.
Helen is a qualified, practising and licensed financial adviser. She is the founder of On Your Own Two Feet, which empowers women to gain and retain their financial freedom. Helen is a finalist for Australia's Financial Adviser/Planner of the Year and a two-time finalist for Women's Community Program for the Year. She is the author of On Your Own Two Feet: Steady Steps to Women's Financial Independence and On Your Own Two Feet, Divorce: Your Survive and Thrive Financial Guide.
Inflation, inflation, inflation. It's hurting many people, but it's hurting some more than others. In this podcast, Serina chats with Hannah Andrevski about the charity she founded, Roundabout Canberra, and how it is helping families who are doing it tough.
Hannah Andrevski is the founder and CEO of Roundabout Canberra. In 2018 Hannah was on maternity leave with a newborn and a toddler, and after struggling to find somewhere to pass on her pre-loved baby items, she decided to do something about it. Roundabout Canberra rehomes pre-loved baby and children's items to local families experiencing hardship. Four years on, they've helped approximately 5000 children with essential items such as cots, prams, car seats, clothing, linen, toys, school-related items and toiletries.
Ever thought about investing in real estate but think you may have left your run too late? In this podcast, Serina chats with property investor and buyer's agent Lloyd Edge, who shares tips about getting started, forecasts for the market (and interest rates) and the importance of research.
Lloyd started his professional life as a struggling muso. Through investing in property, he went from being a school music teacher to building a real estate portfolio - including achieving his dream of owning a home on the water. He is the Director and Founder of Aus Property Professionals and is a buyer’s agent, property strategist, and author of the best-selling book Positively Geared. His new book, Buy Now, is the ultimate guide to owning and investing in property. Lloyd was a finalist in the 2021 Real Estate Business Awards for Buyer’s Agent of the Year, and Aus Property Professionals was awarded Property Strategist of the Year for 2022 by APAC, Australian Enterprise Awards.
Often, we associate money with needing to be serious or sensible - and often feeling stressed. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this podcast, Serina chats with author and Plutus award-winning freelance writer Emily Guy Birken. Emily has worn lots of hats throughout her career: temporary tattoo artist, bookseller, Americorps volunteer and teacher. And she’s also a huge money nerd, who manages to sneak toilet humour into her writing. Emily's work has appeared in HuffPo, Business Insider, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, MSN Money, and The Washington Post. Her books include The 5 years before you retire, Choose Your Retirement and the newly released Stacked: Your Super Serious Guide to Modern Money Management, which she co-wrote with Joe Saul-Sehy.
Imagine what it would be like to graduate from high school knowing that you never needed to find a job? That was the reality for sustainability entrepreneur Ilea Buffier, who graduated from high school with a property portfolio that made her financially independent. But that's only the beginning of her story: Ilea has gone on to become a successful business owner and entrepreneur, working to promote sustainability through two business endeavours.
Ilea is the founder of Evalue8 Sustainability, an enviro tech company with the mission of making it easy for all organisations to measure and reduce their carbon footprint. She is a Climate Active registered consultant and has been involved in the carbon accounting industry since 2005. She is also the owner of Ninetwofive Interiors, which is a dealer for Steelcase, the world’s largest commercial furniture manufacturer.
Jessica Irvine is a senior economics writer with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. For the past few years, she has been on a one-woman mission to budget, save and invest. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about her new book, Money with Jess: Your Ultimate Guide to Household Budgeting. If you think you need a budget, but worry that budgeting is hard (or boring), this is a podcast for you.
One of the key risks to our financial health is our mental and physical health - and that of our spouse, parents or other family members. And something that many families face is a diagnosis of dementia. In this podcast, Serina chats with Dr Kailas Roberts, a psychiatrist with a particular interest in brain health and dementia. Kai is author of Mind Your Brain, The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia. He is also the creator of an iOS app, BrainScan, which helps users optimise their brain function and reduce their risk of dementia. Kai has worked a doctor for over twenty years and currently runs a busy private practice in Brisbane, Australia, which includes Your Brain in Mind, a clinic dedicated to the assessment and treatment of cognitive difficulties.
Luke Harris from The Property Mentors has invested in property for over two years. Luke is author of Let's Get Real and Property Fit, and in this podcast he shares insights for how to break into the property market - the right way.
Walli Miller is a financial coach who helps high-achieving, young professionals become work-optional by taking control of their finances without sacrificing their lattes and brunches. Walli teaches people how to trim the FATT - Food, Accommodation, Travel and Taxes - to gain financial freedom.
Is all debt bad? Can some debt be used for building wealth? Julian Fayad is founder of several fintech businesses, including LoanOptions.AI. In this podcast he talks about debt, the saving, and why it's good to start a side-hustle.
Leilani Bin-Juda PSM served as CEO of the Torres Strait Regional Authority until January 2022. She was the first Indigenous woman to have served in this role. She is a proud Torres Strait Islander, with ties to Hammond, Darnley and Murray Islands. Leilani has had a long diplomatic career, that has included postings to Papua New Guinea, Shanghai in China, the Solomon Islands and the Treaty Liaison Office on Thursday Island. Passionate about Indigenous diplomacy, she spearheaded courses on the subject at the Australian National University. In 2019, she was awarded a Public Service Medical for promoting the inclusion of Indigenous heritage in Australia’s cultural and foreign policies. She also received a Churchill Fellowship in 2000 to investigate Indigenous peoples involvement in museum development.
In this podcast, Leilani chats with Serina about her role in mentoring Indigenous women on personal finance, and the importance of saving and investing.
Hello frugalistas, and welcome! In this podcast The Joyful Frugalista (aka Serina) is interviewed by her cheeky husband, Neil. Hear from Serina about what she and her family have planned for 2022!
Nothing is impossible when it comes to building wealth. Myra Oliver is a Kentucky girl who, at age 22, decided she wanted freedom from debt and consumerism. She went from being a hairstylist to becoming a self-made millionaire in her thirties. Passionate about real estate investment and frugal living, Myra shares in this podcast how true wealth isn't the car you drive or what you wear.
James Whittaker is the best-selling author of three books (The Beginner'$ Guide to Wealth, Think and Grow Rich: The Legacy and Andrew Carnegie's Mental Dynamite), host of the Win the Day Podcast, public speaker, business coach and co-executive producer of the film Think and Grow Rich: The Legacy. In this podcast, he talks with Serina about the power of desire and commitment to achieving your goals.
What does abundance mean to you? Is it money in the bank? Increasingly - and especially during recent crises - people are realising that abundance is much deeper. In the podcast, Serina chats with Chief Economist PwC Australia, Jeremy Thorpe, about the value of the Help Economy - a project launched by NRMA Insurance to track and value acts of everyday help in Australia.
Fashion and disability don't usually go togehter, but Gina Kingston is on a mission to change that. Ahead of the International Day of Disabled Persons on 3 December, Gina shares how her experiences with her mother shaped her interest in ensuring that fashion is more inclusive.
Gina is a scientist, outdoor enthusiast and a personal stylist who specialises in people with health issues. Her mum had a Parkinson’s plus disorder and had limited mobility, but she still wanted to look stylish. Gina now helps other people with health issues to look and feel good in less time and with less effort so they can spend more time enjoying life.
Noel Whittaker chats about his new book - Retirement Made Simple.
Noel is one of Australia’s most successful authors, with 23 bestselling books having achieved worldwide sales of more than two million copies. Making Money Made Simple set Australian sales records and was named in the 100 Most Influential Books of the Twentieth Century. Today we are going to talk about his new book Retirement Made Simple, which is unsurprisingly also a bestseller.
For 30 years, Noel was a Director of Whittaker Macnaught, one of Australia’s leading financial advisory companies, with more than two billion dollars under management.
In 2011 Noel was made a Member of the Order of Australia for service to the community in raising awareness of personal finance.
Noel is a Chartered Tax Adviser, a member of the Australian Securities and Investment Commission Regional Liaison committee, and also an Executive in Residence and Adjunct Professor with the Faculty of Business at the Queensland University of Technology
When we buy an item of clothes in the shops, what is its true impact? Even when clothing claims to be environmentally friendly, how do you know that it really is?
Lalita Lowe is author of It’s Time to Rethink your Fashion. She is a personal fashion curator who works with women to help them make conscious fashion choices. Trained as a fashion designer in Melbourne and Paris, Lalita has worked in the fashion industry in New York , Paris and Australia. She is a certified fashion stylist and has served on the advisory board of one of Australia’s top fashion schools.
Ever wonder what recruiters are looking for in job applicants? It might not be what you think. Despite all the negative news about the economy, the outlook for those seeking employment is good. In this podcast, Roxanne Calder, author of Employable: 7 Attributes to Ensure Your Working Future, shares some tips for maximising your employment potential.
On this podcast, Serina welcomes back @latestarterfire to talk about why late starters to financial independence often have more of an advantage than they think.
The media often likes to run scare campaigns about the cost of children. Can you be a frugalista and be a parent? Yes, you can. I had a great chat with Mel from money savvy mamma about frugal living, family and investing.
Are you feeling a bit anxious in this pandemic? I know I am - and I've got the perfect guest to discuss how to get to feeling better In this podcast, I chat with Dr Jodie Lowinger, who is a world-leading expert in anxiety, mindset and resilience. She is an award-winning clinical psychologist, high-performance and mindset coach to CEOs, and has worked and trained at Harvard Medical School. She is the bestselling author of The Mind Strength Method: Four Steps to Curb Anxiety, Conquer Worry and Build Resilience.
Note: this podcast was recorded before my household went into lockdown.
Founder of Home Sanctuary, Sally Flower, is Australia's first KonMarie Method trained organiser. She previously worked in corporate finance - including in New York - before making a change to embrace sustainable fashion, sustainability and minimalism. On this podcast, Sally chats with Serina about investing, the sharing economy and the link between FIRE and minimalism.
Ever thought about investing in the US, especially in those big tech giants, but wondered how? In this podcast, Serina chats with share trading guru Danielle Ecuyer about her new book Shareplicity 2: a guide to investing in US stock markets.
Amy Bett and her family experienced a financial setback after her husband sustained a head injury at work. She pivoted to starting a business, but then that didn't work out as expected either. In this podcast, Amy talks candidly about the resilience she showed when times got tough, and how she got her finances back on track.
Confidence in investing starts with learning about how to invest, and a reliable and informed financial literacy resource is Australia's Money Magzine. In this podcast, Serina chats with Money Magazine Managing Editor (who is also co-author of The Joy of Money) Julia Newbould about making a career writing about money, the joy of money, and the importance of superannuation.
We rarely think about high income earning professional, such as doctors and lawyers, needing to save for their retirement. But it's important on any income (and in fact, it can be harder when you are earning more as there is a greater expectation of quality of life). In this podcast, I chat with F.I.R.E. blogger Aussie Doc Freedom about her saving and investing journey.
Michelle, Frugality and Freedom had her FIRE life plan disrupted during COVID. She reinvented a new, remote career and excelled at working from home. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about how you can work wherever in the world you want to be, and explains the importance of different types of capital (not just financial capital).
Many people are doing it tough right now - the crisis isn't over for everyone. If you or anyone you know is experiencing debt problems, this is a podcast for you. Seeing a financial counsellor may seem scary, but behind the phone are empathetic people who are there to help - including Nicole Flaws from CARE Inc.
What does abundance mean to you? Is it having enough food to eat? Sadly, many Australians face food insecurity on a daily basis. This is a problem that Ronni Kahn, founder of OzHarvest, is addressing. In this inspirational podcast, Ronni chats with Serina about what abundance means to her, the richness that comes from living aligned with purpose, her recent biography A Repurposed Life and tips for everyone to reduce food waste.
Have you ever wondered if you should borrow to invest? Or whether there was a place for investing in direct shares rather than Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)? I had a good chat with Scott Phillips, Chief Investment Officer at The Motley Fool, about how to get started and how to succeed in investing.
Sarah and Laura write at Keepin’ it Frugal. They are also foodies who are the stars of @Wandercooks. In 2015, they quit their jobs, sold their houses and possession and travelled the world. Both are part of the financial independence retire early movement, and Sarah is one of the 20 bloggers featured in the Aussie F.I.R.E book released by Pearler. In this podcast, they chat with Serina about good food, their frugal wedding and travelling the world on a budget. They also recommend accessing Lynda (now LinkedIn Learning) through a public library.
Stuck in debt and not sure if there is a way out? Dream of getting rich one day and not sure how? In this podcast, Canstar editor-in-chief and former Money Magazine editor, Effie Zahos, chats about her latest book: Ditch the Debt and Get Rich.
Bushy Martin knows a thing or two about property. He is a keynote speaker, author and in 2017 was named one of the top ten property specialists in Australia by The Property Investor Magazine. He is author of The Freedom Formula, and its follow-up Get Invested – which scored two awards at the Australian Business Book Awards in 2019. Bushy is the founder of KNOW:HOW Property Finance Strategy, one of Australia's leading groups of property investment strategists, and host of the Get Invested podcast.
In this podcast, he chats with Serina about the magic of property investing and has a great tip for parents wanting to help their kids get into property investing.
Jeanene Kennedy-Evans is founder of Winederlust, a wine events company, and host of the Winederlust podcast. She's also the co-organiser of the Live Your Best Life series, which features women with insights into how to do amazing things. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about why it's important to support our local businesses - including wineries - and why she decided to turn her passion for good wine into a side hustle.
Do you prepare too much too for Christmas and then regret it? Have you ever wanted to cook duck but felt a bit scared? In this podcast, Serina chats with her friend and Triple H 101.1 FM Thrive Live presenter - and chef - Aranka Nolan, about how to avoid food waste at Christmas by catering for the right amount. Aranka also shares her recipe for duck l'orange.
Former Managing Director of UBS Investment Bank in Hong Kong, Eric Sim is the most popular and well-known banker in Asia with over two million followers on LinkedIn. He is founder of the Institute of Life, which teaches young professionals (especially in finance) how to become more successful at work and in life. He is simultaneously a senior career fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a guest lecturer at Renmin University in Beijing.
In this podcast, Eric chats with Serina about how he managed to achieve career success despite the Asian Financial Crisis, his special relationship with prawn noodles, why he doesn't wear a Rolex and what for him is the true meaning of happiness.
Ever wondered about the strategies that the wealthy use to get even wealthier? Canna Campbell is founder and director of boutique financial planning firm SASS Financial Services, Channel 9’s money expert, founder of SugarMamma.TV, host of SugarMamma’s Fireplay Podcast, and best-selling author of the $1,000 Project and Mindful Money. In this episode, she discusses debt recycling, the power of the $1,000 project and changes to the financial planning industry.
This podcast is a special one - it's not an interview and it's quite different. I'm so excited to share with you an abundance meditation. I am gifting this to you so that you can channel more abundance into your life.
Dr Kirsten Peterson is a registered psychologist, endorsed sport and exercise psychologist, and organizational coach for her company Kirsten Peterson Consulting. Drawing on her 23 years of international experience as a sport and performance psychologist for Olympic athletes, coaches, and teams in the US and Australia, Kirsten understands how high performance works. She was a team psychologist at 7 Olympic Games and has worked with numerous sports, most recently with the Australian national women's water polo and rowing programs, as well as with USA Rugby. Serina chats with Kirsten about success and the mindset of top athletes (it's not what you might think), and application for those of us working to achieve our goals.
April Mack is a mentor, trainer, speaker and facilitator. She lives in Canberra and loves laughing, dancing, hanging out with her children and family and learning anything that helps her grow and shine more brightly in the world. She is host of the Mack Chat podcast. Her leadership programs for women with ambition include DIVA and Shine.
In this podcast, April has a candid chat with Serina about the moment of realising she was in debt, how she got herself out of it, and how she works with women to help them shine.
This podcast celebrates and acknowledges the 20 year anniversary of the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
Jennifer Wittwer, CSM, is a nationally and internationally acclaimed gender expert, keynote speaker and published writer who has been recognised with numerous awards. With thirty-eight years in the Australian military, she has experience in leadership, organisational change, large-scale cultural and workplace reform, and implementing gender-responsive policy strategies and solutions. In recent years, Jen has worked for international organisations in Afghanistan, Brussels, New York, Ukraine and Jordan on a range of projects relating to women's participation in peace and security efforts.
In this episode, she chats with Serina about being a trailblazing woman in the navy, why she didn't join to find a husband, how the gender pay gap is an issue in the military, as well as sharing her money values.
Effie Zahos helped kickstart Money Magazine in 1999 and served as editor until 2019. She is currently editor-at-large at Canstar and is a well regarded financial commentator. She is the author of several books, including A Real Girl's Guide to Money: From Converse to Louboutins, and a children’s book. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about shoes, fashion, education, superannuation, women and of course, money.
Note: this is a link to a trailer about Watch Your Nuts, which Effie mentions in the podcast in relation to men and payday loans. It's seriously funny but makes an important point. And you can subscribe here to Money Mondays with Effie at Canstar.
Gai Brodtmann served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives for the seat of Canberra from 2010 until 2019. She served as Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and later Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence Personnel. Gai serves on several boards including the Australian Strategic Policy Institute council, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, and Endometriosis Australia, and the Sapien Cyber advisory board. In this podcast, she shares her experience of growing up where money suddenly became tight. As a result, she is passionate about women becoming financially literate to 'grip it up' and know where their money is going.
Serina chats gardening and saving money on radio 2BS, NSW central tablelands. Radio interview recorded on 1 October 2020.
Libby Gore invited Serina to chat about how to reduce your food bill during her session on ABC Radio Melbourne. Aired on Sunday, 4 October 2020 at around 11.30am.
Frances Crimmins plays an active role in complaining for women. She serves as Chief Executive Officer of the YWCA Canberra and also volunteers on boards including the National Older Women’s Housing and Homelessness Working Group and Homelessness Australia. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about the economic inequalities affecting women including the 'pink recession', lower superannuation balances, the gender pay gap and how COVID exposed the plight of older homeless women.
Has your family dynamic been less than joyful during the events of 2020? If so, you're not alone - especially if you have neurodiverse kids at home. In this episode, Patricia Falcetta aka the Family Joy Expert, shares some wisdom about how to improve family joy. Patricia helps families with neurodiverse children – such as Autism (ASD), ADHD, ADD, dyslexia and others such as dyspraxia and supports families to move away from stress, overwhelm, anxiety and worry to relief, happiness, better family balance and joy.
Rae Knopik travelled halfway around the world and then to a place she couldn't even pinpoint on a map for love. And then she set up a community-based not-for-profit. Rae's story is one of faith and belief. If you have ever dreamed of setting up a not-for-profit to do something bigger than yourself, you will love what Rae has to say.
As we deal with a global pandemic and a recession, many of us are also dealing with the mental health impact of disruption and change. In this podcast, Serina chats with counsellor and author Karin Holmes about the transformative power of kindness, and why kindness is so needed right now.
Karin Holmes is a counsellor who specializes in grief counselling and mental health support. Karin is author of two books, Nurturing Kindness – a manifesto for unapologetic self-love and healing and How to survive a miscarriage – a guide for women, their partners, friends and families and he is passionate about helping those that are done suffering silently and are ready to start healing.
Have you ever had an idea for a business or startup and then thought, how do I do it? Or have you started a business and want to learn more about how to craft a sustainable business model, especially to pivot during COVID? Serina chats with Janine Linklater, Business Development Manager at the Southern Region Business Enterprise Centre about the things to think about what starting a business, and the importance of a simple and easy to craft business plan.
Lacey Filipich is author of Money School: become financially independent and reclaim your life. A former chemical engineer who spent time working in Kalgoorlie, Lacey founded Money School with her mum 2010 - and more recently founded Maker Kids to help teach financial education to children.
Lacey is one of the chief organisers of a virtual summit called Money Debates, which brings together over 40 finance experts to explore different views on key financial issues. Money Debates opens on 24 August and runs until 4 September.
Serina's got some exciting news to announce! She is now the face of Savvy Shopper, a new column that features in the midweek Hibernation section of News Corp's major metropolitan newspapers every Thursday. Make sure to buy The Daily Telegraph, The Herald Sun, The Courier Mail, Mercury etc and to check out Savvy Shopper online.
Harry Armytage specialises in helping bright children - and adults with self-responsibility - to rediscover their love of learning. And in a previous life, Harry was an economist who analysed what made people spend. In this episode, chats with Serina about the hidden secrets department stores use to make us want to spend, the importance of listening, how to encourage learning in children - especially gifted children, embracing your gifts, and finally, the circular economy.
Jess is one half of The Fioneers, a financial independence blog. Jess is on her way to financial independence while working part-time. The Fioneers won the Plutus Award in 2019 for the best new personal finance blog.
In this podcast, Jess has a candid chat with Serina about women and overwork, choosing the right path to financial independence, and the dangers of the 'treat yourself' culture.
Growing up, I learnt more about money outside school than in it. This is a problem that former teacher Kate Crowhurst, who blogs at Money Bites, feels passionately about. In this episode, she discusses financial literacy in schools, the need for more female voices in personal finance, the importance of women in business startups - and she shares a great fashionista tip.
Kate is also working with Money School author Lacey Filipich on Money Debates, a virtual summit that takes place from 31 August to 4 September.
Aussie Firebug is an Australian, currently living in London, who blogs and podcasts about his Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) path. He is a bit of a legend in the FIRE community, where his no-nonsense tell it as it is approach has earned him over 13,000 subscribers. In this episode, he has an honest chat with Serina about how 2020 has disrupted his (and Mrs Firebug's) European travel plans, how they are investing, and his views on the controversial topic of whether or not to withdraw money from superannuation.
Janie Allen aka Styledge by Janie is a fashion stylist who always looks fabulous - even on a budget. She chats with Serina about moving beyond fat-shaming, being comfortable in your skin, and how to dress fashionably on a budget. "When you look great you feel great, and when you feel great you can conquer the world."
After Liz Walton got married, she expected to start a family quickly. But that didn't happen, even after six IVF attempts - until she fell pregnant at 46 years of age. Now Liz provides fertility coaching and emotional support for people struggling with fertility. So far she's had a 100 per cent success rate; but often it's more about the journey. Liz is one of the contributors to the Amazon #1 bestselling book Mumpreneur on FIRE Australian edition and is one of the founders of the My Vibe networking group. In this podcast, she shares the emotional and financial cost of her fertility journey.
Kurt Walkom is Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Pearler, an innovative and low-cost share trading platform that helps people achieve financial independence. Kurt purchased his first shares at age 15 just before the market crashed during the Global Financial Crisis. Notwithstanding the bad timing, Kurt has been passionate about investing ever since. In this podcast, he demystifies Exchange Traded Funds and chats with Serina about why they are so popular with people in the Financial Independence Retire Early community.
Note: Any discussion about investment strategies in this podcast is by way of general information only and should not be taken as financial advice. Serina has a commercial relationship with Pearler as part of its affiliate referral plan.
Serina chats with the founders of the Buy Nothing Project and authors of the Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan,Leisl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller, about the importance of giving and receiving - and what they are doing to eliminate unconscious racism. Leisl and Rebecca founded the Buy Nothing Project in 2013. It has now grown to become a global movement of hyper-local communities that encourages the giving of goods and services and sustainable living.
(Note: the audio quality of this podcast is imperfect due to technical issues during recording.)
Recently, Serina asked listeners what they would like to hear about. Following a request by Yvette Holdsworth (blogger at Weave the Future Magical), Serina has managed to coax Neil, her husband and normally shy podcast editor, onto the show to chat about money matters.
Marg Wade is author of Canberra Secrets, now in its third edition. She also operates a bespoke tour company called Canberra Secrets. In 2019, she won the Micro Business of the Year award at the Canberra Women in Business awards.
In this podcast, Serina chats with Marg about making the decision to be a writer, leaving a secure job to follow her dream, the meaning of abundance, and a unique and significant Indigenous item on display (for free).
Janice Fung was an investment banker who quit her job to become a travel vlogger. While 2020 might not have ended up being the travel year she had envisaged, she has no regrets. Serina chats with her about having the courage to follow your dreams, the importance of planning, and how to cook a week's worth of meals for $70.
Joanne Holbrook and her family have had eight postings and are about to go on their ninth. Born in South Africa, she is married to a US army officer and, together with their two children, they have lived in five countries. In her book, Your Passport to Parenting, Joanne shares some of the lessons she has learnt from raising their children in different cultures. In this podcast, Serina chats with Joanne about how she met her husband, how not to raise an 'asshole', how her family survived with limited 'stuff', and her illuminating tip for saving energy in the house. (Note: It's a unique one, which I think I might do at home.)
Jennie Roberts is a radiologist, a mother of three, a lover of the outdoors, and of team sports. She is married to psychiatrist husband Kailas Roberts, who has a book coming out next year on dementia. Jennie's life changed when she received confirmation of a medical diagnosis she had always feared. Serina met Jennie through The Joyful Frugalista after Jennie bought several copies for herself, family and friends. Jennie wants to achieve Financial Independence Retire Early so that she can do more. "Only thing is, I'm not that frugal, so I have to learn. I'm getting better."
Serina chats with sales coach Misty Henkel about how to overcome being scared to sell so that you can sell yourself (and your products) better. Misty is author of Overcoming Obscurity: how to get noticed in the marketplace so that you can make more money.
Serina is excited to launch her first her ever course Six Weeks to Abundance with The Joyful Frugalista, starting 8 June. To sign up, visit her website https://www.joyfulfrugalista.com/shop/
Joel Gibson is a former reporter and editor at the Sydney Morning Herald, a keen movie fan, the face of One Big Switch, and author of Kill Bills!. In this podcast, he chats with Serina about negotiating styles, and tips for saving money on household bills. And for those interested in energy savings, there is this website: https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/
Are you worried about money during these difficult times? Serina chats with Michael Miller, a certified financial planner at Wealth Markets Northbourne. Michael has some great, practical advice about how to manage your finances in uncertain times, including how to forecast your expenses and cash flow. And he's got some great advice about how to stop stressing about your finances and instead build financial resilience.
Michael holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Canberra and a Masters of Business from Charles Sturt University. He has lectured and tutored at the University of Canberra in financial planning and economics, and in 2010 launched the Zoe Miller Award for Women in Financial Planning (www.zoemiller.info) to encourage more women to join the financial planning industry.
What happens if your dreams of financial independence retire early (F.I.R.E.) suddenly disappear? This was the reality for Leanne Elliott, who retired just after she turned 50 only to lose half her wealth in an unexpected and unforeseen change of events. Leanne is a principal consultant with interaction, which experience in helping organisations manage change. In this podcast, she chats with Serina about the resilience she showed in managing her own life change and provides a message of hope for those giving through difficult times. Leanne and Serina are both members of Zonta, an international service organization committed to advancing the status of women.
Shownotes
Self-Compassion
Zonta International
Have you ever wondered about the cost of commuting? I'm not just talking about the petrol in your car, but the millions of dollars that go into public infrastructure to support 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday office working days. In this podcast, Rachel Smith chats with Serina about how working from home can boost productivity and be a gift to time-poor people. We also explore whether the current economic situation will lead to long term changes in how we view communities and consumption.
Rachel Smith is author of Underspent: how I broke my shopping addiction and buying habit without dramatically changing my life. She is a freelance writer and consultant, with expertise in big picture thinking regarding transport infrastructure.
To join in the conversation about working from home, join me on The Joyful Frugalista Facebook Group.
Did you ever wonder about the story behind the man who is the voiceover guy on The Joyful Frugalista? Or why he insists on being called Lord? Well, I did wonder about the Lord bit so I asked him (spoiler: I'm not yet convinced). But what I am sure of is that he holds a Guinness World Record in archery, he is the Canberra - and Queanbeyan - Town Crier, and he was MC at our wedding reception. If you're sick of doom and gloom news and reporting, pour yourself a glass of wine (or coffee, or tea, or even water) and enjoy this podcast.
In this episode, Serina chats with Sandie Parks, co-owner of The Green Shed. The Green Shed is a Canberra-based reuse facility that is committed to reducing landfill. In addition to operating two locations at resource management centres, The Green Shed also has two shops in the Canberra CBD that sells interesting bric-a-brac. Ever wondered what people throw out? Sandie brought along a basket with some fascinating historical items for show and tell. This podcast will reshape how you think about the 'stuff' we collect in our life, with Sandie providing insights about what is truly valuable in our lives.
If you want to see more photos, see a blog post with photos from our podcasting recording session, and an earlier blog post where I met Sandie at the Lego House.
To join in the conversation about the meaning of stuff, join me on The Joyful Frugalista Facebook Group.
Brandon is host of Aussie Wealth Creation, one of my husband's favourite YouTube channels. He quit his job in January this year to focus on creating his investment training YouTube videos full-time. He is also co-founder of Profitful, a platform that provides training for aspiring wealth creators. Brandon was featured in a Daily Mail article last year about how he saved $100,000 in three years.
Please visit The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group to join in the discussion about passive income wealth creation strategies.
With many of us either being forced or choosing to #stayathome, a key issue is how we stay sane in our space. How do we keep it clean and tidy? Is household intrinsically women's work? Can you work from home and homeschool without tying up your kids? At what age can you start to get your kids into doing chores? Are decluttering coaches minimalists? And what is a donation box and why is it one of the best household hacks ever? Decluttering and organisational coach Lauren Winzar shares her wisdom about how to create a happy home with Serina.
See The Joyful Frugalista website for my latest blog posts on #joyfulgiving. And I'd love you to join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Bec Cuzzillo is a small business owner who is forging her own, unique path. A self-described #girlboss, she and her mother run Goddess retreats for women. She also provides life and business coaching. In her words, she is about supporting ambitious, soul-centred women to transform their lives to create the soulful life and business they deserve. Bec is also a certified Angelic Reiki healer and much of her focus is on healing.
You can read about my blog post with Bec here. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Last month, we did a road trip down to Melbourne. And we stopped by to visit my Auntie Julie (Julie Kozaris) for lunch. After lunch, I said, "Hey, how about I record you on a podcast?" And she was awfully good about it, and Neil got the equipment out and we did a podcast. Julie is an award winning artist, and a talented graphic designer who designed packaging and logos for many Australian brands in the 1970s and 1980s. Julie speaks about the frugal influence of her mother (my Nana), the muse for the iconic Skipping Girl Vinegar neon sign that most Melbournians know well. We talk about good food (she's an amazing cook), and also about marrying into a Macedonian family and learning about a new culture and traditions. And Julie also shares about how she overcame adversity after her husband's business collapsed at the beginning of the recession that 'we had to have'.
You can read about our road trip to Melbourne, including lunch with Julie, here. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Jen Seyderhelm is a radio announcer with twenty years' experience. She describes herself as a radio announcer, newsreader, music historian and podcaster. Jen is part of the 2CC call team supporting the Canberra Raiders, ico-hosts the 20/40 podcast, and also delivers podcasting courses throughout Australia. As a child, she was teased for her frugal upbringing, but in this podcast, she shares with Serina how she now sees her frugalista education as a strength.
Following this interview, Jen penned an article called Radio brings calm to troubled waters for RadioInfo, which expands on some of the themes discussed in this interview.
To read the blog post I wrote about podcasting with Jen, see here. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
It's a crazy time and there is a lot happening. In this podcast, Serina shares her thoughts about the emerging situation. How do you keep happy, safe and well as a frugalista? How important is it to be financially resilient? And how can you see opportunities in difficult times?
Digital communities are becoming increasingly important during these difficult times. Join The Joyful Frugalista FB group here.
Skye Alexander is a former interior designer who has written over 50 books, including 10-Minute Feng Shui: Hundreds of Easy Tips and Techniques for Prosperity, Health and Happiness. In this podcast, Skye chats with Serina about how to improve the flow (qi) of your home to attract love and abundance.
To read articles I've written, see The Joyful Frugalista website. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Jason Naumovski bought his first property with a friend at age 21. At the time, he was working full time and studying full time. In this podcast, he chats with Serina about money, property, his love of a good bargain and navigating money and relationships.
To read articles I've written, see The Joyful Frugalista website. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Serina chats with Fiona Balzer, Policy and Advocacy Manager at the Australian Shareholders' Association (ASA) about the power of investing in shares.
To read articles I've written, see The Joyful Frugalista website. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Serina and Latestarterfire chat over homemade fruitcake about Chinese attitudes towards money and investing, sharemarket versus property, and why (and how) she started on the Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) path at age 47.
To read articles I've written, see The Joyful Frugalista website. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.
Hello frugalistas and welcome! I am looking forward to introducing you to some amazing people on this podcast channel. This podcast is the first of many to come. And I would like to hear from you: what would you like to hear about, and why?
To read articles I've written, see The Joyful Frugalista website. And join the conversation with other frugalistas at The Joyful Frugalista Facebook group.