How I Lost My Life Savings in a Romance Scam – Tracy Hall’s Story

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Lottie Dalziel - sustainability expert, founder of Banish, and author of the brand-new book 365+ Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money at the Same Time. We’re diving into practical, easy-to-do swaps that can save you serious cash - from reducing food waste and embracing slow fashion, to cutting your power bills and cleaning your home without harsh (and expensive) chemicals. Whether you’re just sustainability-curious or already living that low-waste life, this episode is full of smart tips that are good for the planet and your bank account. Visit Banish website here.  And hey - if you’re loving the episode, the best way to thank us? Hit that subscribe button. 💸🌏 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What age should you seriously start thinking about freezing your eggs? In this powerful and practical episode of Get Rich, Molly Benjamin sits down with fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew to unpack everything you actually need to know about egg freezing — from the ideal age to consider it, to what the process involves, how much it costs, and the biggest mistake Raelia sees women make when it comes to their fertility. They cover: Why any woman not planning kids before 30 should consider egg freezing What age egg quality starts to decline (and why 35 is a critical number) How the freezing process works, step by step What tests you need, and what your AMH results actually mean The truth about costs — including Medicare and PBS rebates And the emotional relief egg freezing can bring, especially if you're feeling pressure around your timeline Raelia also debunks common myths (spoiler: it’s not surgery), shares her take on the “egg harvest,” and explains why freezing your eggs is the only real anti-ageing move for your fertility. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, or just egg-freeze curious — this episode is a must-listen for any woman who wants to understand her options and feel empowered about her future. 🎧 Tune in now and get informed, not overwhelmed. Women’s Health Melbourne - https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/Melbourne IVF - https://www.mivf.com.au/Knocked Up Podcast - https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/blog 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever felt like crypto is a whole new world you should understand... but don’t? You’re not alone. In this episode of Get Rich, Molly sits down with Michael Hazilias from Breakout Solutions to break down the basics of Bitcoin, crypto, blockchain, NFTs—and how to avoid the scams that come with them. We cover:💸 What crypto actually is (and how it works without a bank)🔒 The difference between Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies🏦 Why Bitcoin is being called the “digital gold” of our time📉 Why your emotions can cost you more than a scam🚨 The red flags of a crypto scam (and what to never do)🎁 What NFTs really are (hint: it's not just pixelated monkeys)📈 And—have you missed the boat on Bitcoin? Plus, Michael shares his #1 tip for anyone who wants to dip their toe into crypto investing, and how he’s using blockchain + AI to help Australians fast-track their path to financial freedom. 💥 Whether you're crypto-curious or just trying to keep up with the conversation, this episode is packed with practical insights that make this complex world a little easier to navigate. Digital Freedom Formula: https://breakoutnow.co/workshop-lif10 Point Checklist: https://breakoutnow.co/checklist-lif   💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve been thinking about getting solar but feel unsure about the cost, rebates, or how much it will actually save you, this episode breaks it all down. I sat down with Leigh Storr, CEO of Resinc (just named Installer of the Year by the Smart Energy Council), and walked away with such a better understanding of how solar works and why it’s a total no-brainer if you own property in Australia. In this chat, Leigh shares:☀️ How solar panels really work🔋 What batteries do (and whether you need one)💸 What rebates and green loans are available, even if you’re renting So if you’ve ever looked at your electricity bill and thought “surely there’s a better way?”. This episode is for you. Grab a quote from RESINC today 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian real estate just hit a jaw-dropping $11.3 trillion  and that’s just residential. 😲 In the latest episode of Get Rich, Molly is joined by property data expert and InvestorKit Founder Arjun Paliwal to break down what that means for you — and how to get ahead. We cover:✅ Where the best value suburbs are hiding✅ Why inner-city areas might be making a comeback✅ The unexpected city on the rise (hello Darwin 👀)✅ What’s coming for first-home buyers in 2026✅ And why waiting could cost you $$$ 🎧 Ready to make your next smart money move? 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bernadette Janson from The School of Renovating flipped homes for over 40 years (yep, before The Block was even a thing), and is now spilling the tea on all her best-kept renovation secrets. From $500 Hamptons kitchens to the #1 mistake most first-time renovators make, this episode is packed with gold. Whether you’ve got reno dreams or just love a good before-and-after, Bernadette’s genius tips on where to spend (and where not to), how to boost your home's value on a budget, and her go-to hacks for kitchens, bathrooms and curb appeal will blow your mind. 🛠️✨ Tune in now before you start that “simple” DIY project that could cost you thousands... 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine falling in love with the perfect man… only to discover he’s a con artist who’s stolen your entire life savings. In this gripping episode, Tracy Hall shares her story of being the last known victim of Hamish McLaren, one of Australia’s most prolific con men, who stole over $7.6 million from at least 15 victims. 💔 In 2023 alone, Australians lost over $250 million to romance scams, with women aged 45+ among the most impacted. Tracy’s story isn’t just about financial abuse—it's about resilience, red flags, and how coercive control can happen to anyone. She opens up about the signs she missed, how she reclaimed her financial power, and why every woman needs her own emergency fund. Whether you're single, dating, or in a long-term relationship, this episode is a must-listen. Tracy opens up about the subtle signs she missed, how coercive control operates in financial scams, and the steps she took to rebuild her life and financial independence. 🎙️ One of the most raw, powerful and important conversations we’ve had on the show. Grab Tracy's book here (hyperlink)  LINK: https://www.amazon.com.au/Last-Victim-betrayal-unbreakable-relationship/dp/0733651151/ref=asc_df_0733651151?  Want Tracy to speak at your event - enquiry here. https://tracyhall.com.au/speaking  💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for the best Australian tax tips podcast to get you ready for EOFY? This episode of GET RICH is a must-listen for anyone earning an income in Australia whether you’re employed full-time, have a side hustle, or run your own business. Your host Molly Benjamin, founder of Ladies Finance Club, is joined by Diana Todd, founder of Balance Tax Accountants and one of Australia's most trusted voices on all things tax. Together, they break down how the Australian tax system works and share practical, legal ways to reduce your tax bill, without the stress or confusing jargon.  In this EOFY tax tips episode, you’ll learn:✅ The most forgotten tax deductions (and how to make sure you don’t miss them)✅ How to legally pay less tax without getting on the ATO’s radar✅ Side hustle vs hobby: what the ATO actually looks for✅ Sole trader or company: which structure will save you more tax✅ What you can and can’t claim working from home✅ How to reduce capital gains tax on shares or property✅ Why negatively geared properties could boost your refund✅ Medicare Levy vs Medicare Surcharge: how to avoid the extra charge✅ What to do if you haven’t lodged a tax return in years✅ How much to put aside from your side hustle income so you're not caught out  If you’re searching for an EOFY podcast episode, ATO tax tips, or how to maximise your tax refund in Australia, this one’s for you.  Press play to get savvy, stay compliant, and save money before June 30! Want to know more, join our masterclass here. 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Superannuation might feel like a “set-and-forget” kind of thing—but ignoring it could cost you tens of thousands in retirement. In this episode, Molly is joined by super expert Gemma Mitchell and Ladies Finance Club member Alana Prick to break down everything you really need to know about whether your super is doing its job. We’re cutting through the jargon to help you:✅ Understand if your super fund is actually performing✅ Know what a “normal” fee looks like (and what’s too much)✅ Get clear on the difference between index vs active investing✅ Learn when and how often you should review your super✅ Figure out the right investment option for your life stage✅ And how to prep your super for retirement—even if it's just around the corner If you’ve had your super on autopilot since your first job, consider this your sign to take a look under the hood. Your future self will thank you! Are you on the countdown to retirement? Join our course now!  💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever stared at your HECS-HELP debt and thought, “Should I just pay this off now or use that money to invest instead?” this episode is for you. In this juicy and jargon-free chat, Molly sits down with financial adviser and podcast host Jess Brady to unpack everything you need to know about your student loan (aka HECS or HELP) in 2025. With indexation rates changing and cost of living pressures rising, it’s no wonder more Aussies are wondering if this debt deserves more attention. 💥 Here’s what you’ll learn: What HECS-HELP debt actually is and how it’s calculated Why indexation (that sneaky thing that feels like ‘interest’) can make your debt grow even when you’re making repayments The new changes to HECS indexation and how they might help you When you start paying it back (and how much you'll need to repay based on your income) Whether paying it off early is a smart move -or if your money could work harder for you elsewhere (like investing in shares, saving for a home, or boosting your super) How your HECS debt could impact your home loan borrowing power Strategies for paying it off smarter (especially if you’re a high-income earner or living overseas) Tips on weighing up paying off debt vs investing, and how to align your strategy with your goals Jess also shares real-world examples, a little tough love, and a few clever hacks to help you make the best decision for your future self -whether you want to be debt-free ASAP or grow your wealth over time. 🧠 Whether you're planning to buy a home, go back to study, move overseas or just want to feel more in control of your finances, this episode breaks it all down. 💌 Want more money tips straight to your inbox?Join thousands of Australian women getting savvy with their finances -subscribe to the Ladies Finance Club newsletter for the latest money hacks, expert advice, and exclusive event invites! Sign up here. Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here.  🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit! The Only Buyer’s Agency Awarded as Australia’s #1 for 2 Years in A Row. The advice shared by Ladies Finance Club is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Our content is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon to make financial decisions. If you are considering purchasing a financial product, read the PDS and TMD and seek financial advice tailored to your personal needs. Molly Benjamin and Ladies Finance Club Pty Ltd are authorised representatives of Wattle Partners Pty Ltd, AFSL 383169. Ladies Finance Club acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. [See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.]Throw some coins in our tip jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/ladiesfcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.