Whether you're buying your first home, tackling debt, or building long-term wealth, we’ll show you how to make smarter money moves. With over 20 years of combined experience as qualified financial advisers, James Blair and Michael Vincent share straight-talking advice, practical strategies, and real conversations about money - all to help you take control of your financial future with confidence. Check out our website below: lighthousefinancial.co.nz
…
continue reading
Cheques And Balances Podcasts
A journey through the history of the city of Venice, meeting a host of colourful characters along the way.
…
continue reading
We explore how to do things better and faster in order to overcome the climate crisis and be on track to deliver 1.5°C. The COP-TRANSFORMERS Podcast is brought to you by the United Nations Science-Policy-Business Forum on the Environment (UN-SPBF), and partners.
…
continue reading

1
KiwiSaver Untaxed: A Game Changer for Retirement | Episode 391
14:21
14:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:21What if your KiwiSaver balance could double - just by removing tax? In this episode, we explore the radical idea of untaxed KiwiSaver returns, comparing outcomes to Australia’s super system, breaking down the numbers, and debating what it could mean for retirement, government revenue, and the future of NZ Super. Next Steps: Not sure if your KiwiSav…
…
continue reading
This week we’re looking at how all the political shenanigans affected regular Venetian merchants. What were they buying and selling, where were they doing all this general “business”, and how did the rising merchant class affect the city’s political structures? From cashing cheques to imposing checks on political power; from weighing goods on balan…
…
continue reading

1
036. Got 99 Problems but a Bishop ain't one (oh, hang on...)
40:26
40:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:26Church schisms, imperial schisms, neighbours illegally trying to divert rivers into your lagoon, other neighbours asking for help out of the blue ... as the 12th century heads towards its mid-point, Venice has a lot going on around her. And that's before her Archbishop goes rogue and the Normans seize Corfu. Again. And if that isn't enough for you,…
…
continue reading

1
Mortgage Free in 4 Years and Retired at 52: Inside a Financial Plan Ep3
54:51
54:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:51What does a real financial plan actually look like? In this episode, James walks Rachel and Dion through their personalised financial roadmap - covering budgeting, mortgage strategy, investment property planning, KiwiSaver comparisons, and retirement scenarios that show how they could achieve both lifestyle freedom and long-term wealth. This episod…
…
continue reading

1
Struggling With Debt? 3 Key Steps to Fix Your Finances | Episode 389
20:43
20:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:43Struggling with debt? In this episode, we share 3 key steps to fix your finances - from recognising the problem and shifting your mindset, to building a roadmap with clear goals, structure, and accountability. Next steps: If your finances are off track, Lighthouse can help - from tackling debt to building a clear plan tailored to your goals. Book a…
…
continue reading

1
Live Webinar: A Guide to Cutting Debt and Growing Wealth
59:48
59:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:48Stop giving the banks your hard-earned money - learn how to cut debt and grow wealth faster. In this live webinar, we cover smart debt-reduction strategies, how to pay off your mortgage faster, the role of equity in building wealth, budgeting techniques that actually work, and practical ways to set yourself up for long-term financial freedom. 🔗 Lin…
…
continue reading

1
OCR Breakdown: Will Interest Rates Drop Below 4%? | Episode 387
12:18
12:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:18The OCR has been cut - but is this just the beginning for falling interest rates? In this episode, we break down the 50-basis-point cut, its impact on mortgages, business confidence, and house prices, and discuss whether Kiwi borrowers could see sub-4% rates by the end of the yearNext steps: If you’re wondering what the latest OCR drop means for yo…
…
continue reading

1
Are Kiwi Business Owners Over-Taxed? Provisional Tax Explained Ft. Matt Harris| Episode 386
14:30
14:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:30Provisional tax catches out thousands of Kiwi business owners every year. In this episode, Matthew Harris breaks down what provisional tax really is, why it’s so often misunderstood, the common mistakes people make, and how tools like tax pooling can save you from penalties and surprise bills Next steps: If you’re a business owner or property inves…
…
continue reading

1
Why It’s Expensive to Be Poor | Episode 385
18:15
18:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:15Sometimes the habits that feel frugal are actually draining your wallet. In this episode, Jess and Makayla unpack why “it’s expensive to be poor” - exploring how buying cheap, renting long-term, skipping insurance, or avoiding upfront costs can end up costing more in the long run. For more money tips follow us on: …
…
continue reading
By histvenicepod
…
continue reading

1
Inside a Financial Plan Ep2: KiwiSaver, Crypto & Property - The Strategy Session
55:16
55:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:16
…
continue reading

1
KiwiSaver Crisis: Why You’ll Go Broke in Retirement | Episode 383
12:25
12:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:25KiwiSaver won’t save your retirement - and it’s time Kiwis faced that reality. In this episode, Mike and James reveal the harsh truth behind New Zealand’s retirement crisis, unpacking why low contribution rates and unrealistic expectations mean KiwiSaver alone won’t cut it. They break down what $500,000 in savings actually looks like at retirement …
…
continue reading

1
OCR Predictions: How Low Will Mortgage Rates Go?! Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 383
16:27
16:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:27How low could mortgage rates really go? 👀 In this episode, we break down the Reserve Bank’s latest moves, discuss predictions for OCR cuts, explore what falling interest rates mean for mortgages, and look ahead at how the property market could react. Next Steps: If you’re wondering how lower rates could impact your mortgage, refinancing strategy, o…
…
continue reading
With a new Doxe in Venice and a new Emperor in Constantinople, it’s all change in 1118. As the two friends and allies struggle to redefine their relationship and the Byzantines start saying that they were never really exclusive and they’d like to start seeing other people, the Venetians bet the house on a naval expedition that could bankrupt the ci…
…
continue reading

1
Is NZ Education Failing? The Rise of Crimson Education Ft. Jamie Beaton | Episode 382
55:54
55:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:54From Auckland to the Ivy League and beyond - Jamie Beaton’s journey shows what it takes to turn a Kiwi startup into a billion-dollar business. In this episode, Jamie shares how he built Crimson Education from the ground up, the challenges of scaling globally, insights into New Zealand’s education system, and the mindset needed for young entrepreneu…
…
continue reading

1
Inside a Financial Plan Ep1: Dion & Rachel’s Journey
39:40
39:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:40A real Kiwi couple puts their finances on the table in our brand-new mini series. In this first episode, we dive into Dion and Rachel’s money story - covering their values, goals, family aspirations, and the foundations of a free financial plan that will guide their journey over the next 12 months. This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: …
…
continue reading

1
The Crushing Cost of a Growing Family in NZ | Episode 380
17:54
17:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:54In this episode, we unpack the true financial impact of going from two to three kids - covering housing upgrades, new cars, childcare, food, schooling, and even family holidays - to show how quickly expenses pile up. Next Steps: Every family needs a solid financial plan - one that keeps renovations on track, car costs under control, and sets your k…
…
continue reading

1
The Midlife Financial Crisis: Why Your 40s Feel So Expensive | Episode 379
9:50
9:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:50Midlife money stress is real - and it’s hitting Kiwis harder than ever. In this episode, we break down the “midlife financial crisis,” exploring how childcare, mortgages, aging parents, and debt all collide in your 40s, and the practical steps you can take to regain control and build long-term wealth. Next Steps: Ready to take the pressure off your…
…
continue reading

1
RH02B. Cause Without a Rebel - Anna Comnena (2/2)
36:43
36:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:43We conclude our investigation into the life of historian Anna Comnena. This week, we look at what The Alexiad is like as a book of history, and we discuss her alleged plot to overthrow her brother and take the crown for herself. Did that really happen, or is it pure slander? Email us at [email protected], or find us on Bluesky, Facebook, and …
…
continue reading

1
This Is Why You Feel Poor: The Brutal Truth Of Inflation | Episode 378
12:01
12:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:01Inflation is down, but Kiwis are still feeling broke. In this episode, we unpack why everyday essentials like rent, groceries, and mortgage repayments remain painfully high despite inflation easing, exploring wage stagnation, rising living costs, and what it really means for households across New Zealand. Next Steps: Take control of rising costs. B…
…
continue reading

1
NZ Economy Shrinks: Why GDP is Falling | Episode 377
23:50
23:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:50NZ’s economy has gone backwards - here’s what it really means for Kiwis. In this episode, we break down the 0.9% GDP decline, what it signals for business and households, the impact on manufacturing and construction, Reserve Bank policy decisions, and why interest rate changes could bring both relief and risk Next steps: from surviving summer spend…
…
continue reading

1
Most Played Moment: Finance Minister Nicola Willis on Debt, Growth, and NZ's Economic Future | Episode 376
17:03
17:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:03Your Most Played Moment Of 2025: In this exclusive interview from inside the Beehive, Finance Minister Nicola Willis joins us to discuss NZ’s economic future covering everything from housing affordability, debt, and financial literacy to KiwiSaver, exports, and why cutting red tape is critical for growth. Watch the full episode here The Minister's …
…
continue reading

1
RH02A. Writing History While Female - Anna Comnena (1/2).
33:15
33:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:15We’ve quoted at length from The Alexiad in the past few narrative episodes. But who was its author, Anna Comnena, and how did she come to write this 500-page history? We look into the life of this extraordinarily talented polymath to understand more about the background to one of the most important contemporary historical sources for the era that w…
…
continue reading

1
Debt-Free Faster: How to Cut 10 Years Off your Mortgage Ft. Justin Gauci | Episode 375
17:03
17:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:03Stop sleepwalking on your mortgage - learn how small changes could help you cut years off and reduce interest costs. In this episode, we explore practical strategies that may shorten a 30-year mortgage to 10–15 years, including smarter repayment structures, avoiding lifestyle creep, and making the most of pay rises or interest rate changes. Next St…
…
continue reading

1
2025 Property Market: Negotiation Tactics to Save Thousands Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 374
22:07
22:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:07In today’s buyer’s market, smart negotiation could save you thousands on your next property. Adam Farrell joins us to unpack the strategies behind timing your offers, spotting undervalued opportunities, negotiating beyond price, and knowing when to say yes so you don’t miss out on the best deals. Next Steps: Ready to put these strategies into actio…
…
continue reading

1
Why Rentvesting Will Ruin Your Retirement | Episode 373
18:13
18:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:13Rentvesting might look smart now, but it could leave you broke later. In this episode, James and Jess break down the numbers behind rentvesting, comparing real financial projections to show why renting long-term while investing elsewhere often ends in running out of money before retirement. Next Steps: Want to see how your own numbers stack up? Boo…
…
continue reading
It's our first Podcast Anniversary, so we tried summarising the past year's worth of content in three minutes and then chatted about our favourite stories so far and what we're looking forward to most in the future of the show. Also, Simon was confused about how Venice's (arguably) most famous son became a swimming pool game in the US. What is that…
…
continue reading

1
Foreign Buyers Ban Changes: Will They Save or Sink NZ’s Economy? Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 732
17:27
17:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:27Foreign buyers are back...sort of. In this episode, James and Matt unpack New Zealand’s revised foreign buyers rules, the $5 million price cap, and what it means for our property market, economy, and international reputation. Got a hot take? Drop it below - the best comment scores a Lighthouse “Need Money for Real Estate” hat. For more money tips f…
…
continue reading

1
Casanova Part 6. Punching Gift Horses in the Mouth
31:00
31:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:00We’re back with Casanova this week, as he finishes his teenage years and reaches his early 20s. For this mercurial young man, every risk is an opportunity, and every opportunity is a chance to make a complete mess of things. Within two years, he has screwed up two potential careers, lost a couple of small fortunes, and ended up right back where he …
…
continue reading

1
NZ's Infrastructure Crisis: Why Are Taxpayers Footing the Bill? | Episode 371
8:17
8:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:17NZ’s infrastructure is crumbling and taxpayers are footing the bill. In this uncut episode, James and Mike unpack the government’s new road user charges, debating whether it’s a genuine solution to New Zealand’s infrastructure crisis or just another way to shift the cost onto taxpayers, while diving into EV taxes, political timing, and the state of…
…
continue reading

1
$150K Insurance Mistake: Cancer and Cancelled Cover Ft. Emily Powell | Episode 370
25:58
25:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:58A personal story of cancer, cost, and the true value of insurance. In this episode, we share the financial and emotional journey of losing a parent to terminal brain cancer, uncovering the hidden costs of treatment, the consequences of cancelled cover, and the lessons every Kiwi family can take from this experience. Next Steps: We know nobody expec…
…
continue reading

1
When the IRD Comes Knocking: Triggers, Mistakes & Penalties Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 369
28:46
28:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:46When the IRD knocks, will you be ready? In this episode, we unpack how Inland Revenue investigations work, the triggers that set off audits, common tax mistakes property investors make, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and stay compliant. Next Steps: If you’re worried about making the wrong move with your taxes, talk to Lighthouse Acc…
…
continue reading

1
The $1.7M Apartment Disaster: Why Pre Approval Matters | Episode 368
15:10
15:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:10Don’t buy blind - pre-approval could save you from a financial disaster. In this episode, we break down what pre-approval really means, the risks of skipping it, how it sharpens your property search, and practical tips for building a strong application - whether you’re a first-home buyer or a seasoned investor. Next Steps: Ready to take the next st…
…
continue reading
Ordelaf Faledro is an unusual name, whether you're reading it forwards or backwards. He was Doxe of Venice for about 16 years in the early 1100s, when the city suffered a series of devastating natural disasters. With neighbours looking to exploit this moment of weakness, the city had to get back on its feet quickly. This week we look at how they ma…
…
continue reading

1
KiwiSaver vs Managed Funds: How to Get Ahead in 2025 - Audience Q&A | Episode 367
17:40
17:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:40Smart money moves start with the right questions. In this Q&A episode, James and Makayla unpack everything from when to start investing and paying down debt, to mortgages, KiwiSaver strategies, savings accounts, and why having a will matters - giving you practical answers to the financial questions Kiwis are really asking. Next Steps: Want to learn…
…
continue reading

1
5 Hidden Tax Hacks Most NZ Property Investors Are Missing Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 366
27:13
27:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:13Stop overpaying the IRD - here are five tax hacks you probably didn’t know existed. Matt Harris, Managing Director at Lighthouse Financial, unpacks clever but often overlooked tax strategies for NZ property investors, from claiming chattels and travel expenses to structuring debt and maximising deductions, so you can legally keep more money in your…
…
continue reading

1
OCR Explained: What It Means for Your Mortgage & NZ’s Future | Episode 365
11:29
11:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:29OCR explained: the cut, the tracker, and what it really means for your mortgage. In this episode, we break down the Reserve Bank’s 25bps cut to 3%, what economists disagree on next, how inflation pressures play out across sectors, and what it all means for interest rates, home loans, and the wider economy. Next steps: Ready to make the most of drop…
…
continue reading

1
Can The Economy Recover If House Prices Don’t? | Episode 364
13:02
13:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:02If house prices stay flat, can New Zealand’s economy really bounce back? In this episode, we unpack how a stagnant housing market impacts GDP, business confidence, borrowing, and consumer spending - while exploring whether tax incentives, business investment, and foreign capital could help the economy recover without a property boom. Next steps: Lo…
…
continue reading
This week the Venetian lagoon is the star of the show. These muddy, marshy islands are the home of something extraordinary. It’s easy to assume that Venice has always looked the way it does now, or at least as it did in the many splendid Renaissance maps that you can find. But as we head into the 12th century, the city is only just starting to take…
…
continue reading

1
My Auction Horror Story: What Every Home Buyer Must Know | Episode 363
30:59
30:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:59Buying a house isn’t just about the price tag - how you buy matters just as much. In this episode, we break down auctions, negotiations, deadline sales, and tenders, covering finance pre-approvals, due diligence, deposit rules, and the real risks every home buyer needs to understand Next Steps: Thinking about your first home purchase? Book a chat w…
…
continue reading

1
From One Home to Three Rentals: A Client’s Property Journey | Episode 362
33:37
33:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:37From a $39k salary to three investment properties - Crissy’s story proves strategic moves pay off. In this episode, we follow Crissy’s journey from buying her first KiwiBuild home to building a three-property portfolio, covering her saving strategies, renovation lessons, equity leverage, and the importance of having the right team behind you. Next …
…
continue reading

1
5 Key Steps: A Beginner’s Guide to Property Investing ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 361
21:57
21:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:57Buying your first investment property? Start with the right strategy, not the closest suburb. In this episode, Lighthouse Financial’s Property Director Adam Farrell breaks down the five essential steps to purchasing your first investment property - from defining your goals and assessing affordability, to choosing between new builds and existing hom…
…
continue reading
We're looking at Venice's contribution to the First Crusade and its aftermath. The crusading movement had set out to recover lost territory for the Christian Byzantine Empire. But within a couple of years, it had become a means of establishing a series of Latin Christian states in the MIddle East, which were quickly at loggerheads with the Byzantin…
…
continue reading

1
Should Your KiwiSaver Have Crypto In It? | Episode 360
14:40
14:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:40Crypto in KiwiSaver: bold move or big mistake? In this episode, we break down whether cryptocurrency deserves a place in your KiwiSaver, exploring its volatility, potential returns, scams, and the risks of mixing it into one of New Zealand’s most important retirement savings tools. Next steps: Not sure if your KiwiSaver is set up for success? Book …
…
continue reading

1
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Finance Minister Nicola Willis Debt, Growth, and New Zealand's Economic Future | Episode 359
35:21
35:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:21You can’t tax your way to prosperity - but you can grow the pie. In this exclusive interview from inside the Beehive, Finance Minister Nicola Willis joins us to discuss NZ’s economic future covering everything from housing affordability, debt, and financial literacy to KiwiSaver, exports, and why cutting red tape is critical for growth. The Ministe…
…
continue reading

1
Global Markets Are Up: So Why Is NZ Still Struggling? Q2 Report | Episode 358
19:02
19:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:02Markets are bouncing back - but not all economies are sharing the gains. In this April-June 2025 quarterly update, we unpack the drivers behind the global market rebound, the impact of Trump’s tariffs, asset class performance from property to global equities, and why New Zealand continues to lag behind despite worldwide growth. Next steps: If you’r…
…
continue reading

1
Art & Culture 05. Venetian Historical Fiction with Gina Buonaguro
56:47
56:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:47This week we talk to another historical novelist who uses Venice as a setting for her work. We focus in particular on the lives of 16th century women, from nuns to courtesans. You can find out more about Gina’s latest work here: https://ginabu.com/the-virgins-of-venice/ To contact the podcast, email us at [email protected], or find us on Blue…
…
continue reading

1
Why Revolving Credit Will Ruin Your Life | Episode 357
9:43
9:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:43Revolving credit might feel like financial freedom - but for most people, it can be a fast track to long-term debt. In this episode, we unpack how revolving credit works, the pros and cons, why it can be a trap for poor budgeting habits, and smarter strategies to pay off your mortgage faster. Next Steps: If your revolving credit is holding back you…
…
continue reading

1
Retirement Crisis: NZ’s Ageing Population | Episode 356
15:38
15:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:38Nearly 1 in 4 Kiwis will be over 65 by 2050 - and that’s not just grey hairs, it’s an economic shake-up. In this episode, we break down what an ageing population means for New Zealand’s workforce, housing, retirement system, and future tax burden - and what needs to change before it's too late. Next Steps: Want to take control of your financial fut…
…
continue reading

1
Step by Step Guide: How To Get Your First Mortgage | Episode 355
18:21
18:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:21Think getting your first mortgage is confusing? We break it all down - from KiwiSaver strategies and saving hacks to bank vs broker comparisons and how to boost your approval odds. We guide first home buyers through the entire mortgage process, including deposit options, gifting rules, pre-approval conditions, and common pitfalls - plus how to know…
…
continue reading