Welcome to the first episode of our new podcast Wealth Builder. Host and Guidance Financial Planner Nick Donato invites guests on to discuss issues relevant for those in the wealth buidling phase of life. The use of family trusts, capital gains tax strategies, getting started with investing, debt recycling, and plenty more will be dived into in upcoming episodes. In this first episode Nick talks to the Financial Autonomy OG Paul Benson about what is wealth, how should we define "wealthy", and what are the common ways to get there. We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us a message via the Guidance website. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
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28:44
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28:44
What is a "Good" Return for my Super and Investments?
Ever been let down by a hyped movie — or pleasantly surprised by a random pub band? Expectations shape how we experience things — and that includes investing. In this episode of the Financial Autonomy podcast, we explore what realistic expectations look like for your superannuation and investment returns. We’ll talk about the link between risk and return, how your timeframe influences outcomes, and why unrealistic assumptions can lead to poor financial decisions down the track. If you're planning for retirement or just want to invest smarter, this episode will help you set clearer, more grounded goals. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General Advice Disclaimer
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6:39
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6:39
The New Financial Year Checklist
With the new financial year underway, this episode explores key strategies to help you get ahead—like adjusting your super contributions, reviewing personal insurance, boosting savings, and even exploring gearing opportunities. Plus, we look at why financial modelling could be the most valuable move you make this year. Tune in and start the new financial year strong. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
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6:55
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6:55
Australia vs France: Lessons in Debt, Taxes and Retirement
After spending time working remotely in France, I came away with a deeper appreciation for the different ways countries manage their economies and social systems. France offers incredible public services and a rich cultural experience — but also faces some complex challenges that many nations share. In this episode, I reflect on what I observed abroad and what it revealed about Australia’s own strengths and opportunities. Sometimes, seeing how others do things gives us a better perspective on where we stand. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
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7:39
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7:39
The Most Important Action You Need to Master to be a Successful Investor
In this episode, we explore the single most important — yet often overlooked — action that successful investors rely on: doing nothing. When markets become volatile and headlines stir fear, the instinct to react quickly can be hard to resist. But often, the smartest move is to stay calm and hold your ground. We’ll talk about why patience is one of the most powerful tools in your investing toolkit, how to manage the emotional rollercoaster that can come with market drops, and when it's actually the right time to make changes to your portfolio. If you’ve ever felt unsure about whether to act or sit tight, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to stay focused on your long-term goals. Subscribe to our weekly GainingCHOICE email General advice disclaimer
Plenty of books, podcasts and blogs focus on building wealth – and that’s great, as far as it goes. But focusing just on wealth misses the point.
I believe what most of us actually want is to have choice.
Choice in how much time we give to income-producing activities.
Choice about what those income-producing activities are.
Choice about where we live.
Choice about when we retire.
Choice about the ways we use our money to produce happiness.
In the Financial Autonomy podcast, I explore the different ways you can gain choice - from investing in stocks to becoming self-employed, starting a side hustle, or buying an investment property. I share learnings I've gained working with clients for over 20 years as a Certified Financial Planner, and interview others with interesting insights or experiences in gaining choice in life.
Australia