Public vs Private School: The Real Costs, Trade-offs & How to Plan with Alex Luck

Thinking about buying a property but have no idea where to start? 🏡 In this episode, Molly Founder of Ladies Finance Club sits down with mortgage broker Emma and buyer’s agent Karen Lacheta-Pell to walk you through the entire home-buying process - from getting pre-approval to picking up the keys. They unpack what lenders look for, how to avoid common mistakes, what “subject to finance” really means, and why getting professional help can save you thousands. Whether you’re buying your first home or your first investment property, this is your must-listen guide to making confident, smart property moves. 💬 Learn:✔️ How to work out your borrowing capacity✔️ The biggest mistakes women make when buying property✔️ Why rentvesting could get you into the market sooner✔️ What every buyer needs to know about pre-approval, contracts, and valuations Perfect for: first-home buyers, property investors, and women ready to grow their wealth. If you’re serious about buying in 2025, this episode is the perfect warm-up for our upcoming Ladies Finance Club Property Summit - happening Friday, 21 November. 🎟️ Grab your ticket now: https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/property-summit-2025-ladies-finance-club   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Thinking about sending your kids to private school or wondering if public might be the smarter choice? 🎒 In this episode, Molly sits down with financial adviser Alexander Luck from Everest Wealth to break down the true costs of education in Australia. We cover: How much private vs public schooling really costs (spoiler: it’s not just tuition) Common budgeting mistakes parents make when planning for school fees Smart ways to start investing early to cover future education expenses The hidden extras: uniforms, excursions, tech, and more Whether elite schools are really “worth it” compared to public options Trade-offs families face, like retiring earlier, paying off the mortgage, or funding big holidays instead of fees Alex also explains how education bonds, trusts, and smart tax structures can help families prepare, plus tips for minimising back-to-school costs (like second-hand uniforms and buying supplies early). If you’ve ever wondered whether private school is worth the six-figure price tag or how to plan ahead so school fees don’t derail your family finances this one’s for you. Want to speak to Alex or the team fill out this form.   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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 you’re bad with money or constantly wondering why you can’t seem to get ahead even when you’re working hard? This episode of Get Rich is for you. Host Molly Benjamin chats with Catherine, financial planner, money coach, and human design practitioner, about why we fall into money self-sabotage patterns (like doom scrolling and overspending) and how to finally break free. You’ll learn: How childhood money stories shape your financial habits The most common ways women self-sabotage with money (and how to spot them) Practical tools to stop impulse spending (including the “urge journal”) How to set up a simple bank account structure that actually works Why money mindset is just as important as money management What to do if your partner isn’t on the same financial page Catherine shares inspiring real-life client transformations from paying off tax debt, to rebuilding after divorce, to finally finding financial freedom. If you’ve struggled with overspending, want to feel more confident with cashflow, or are ready to align your money with your values, this conversation will give you the tools and motivation to take action 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Think estate planning is just for the rich or the elderly? Think again. In this episode of Get Rich, Molly sits down with estate planning lawyer Simone Hargreaves to unpack exactly what goes into a rock-solid estate plan and why every adult needs one. We cover: What’s actually in an estate plan (hint: it’s more than just a will) How powers of attorney and guardianship work What happens if you die without a will (spoiler: the government decides) The big mistakes people make with DIY wills How to protect your super, your digital assets, and your kids’ future Why having ‘the conversation’ with your family matters Whether you’re 28 or 68, married, single, or somewhere in between, this is a must-listen if you want to protect your money, your wishes, and the people you love. A quick disclaimer: The content of this podcast is provided for general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every family and every situation is different, and what we discuss here may not apply to your personal circumstances. If you need legal advice that’s specific to you, please consult a qualified lawyer. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are our own and do not replace professional guidance.   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

The rules of the property game just changed and you need to know how. In this Get Rich episode, Molly is joined by Arjun Paliwal, CEO of InvestorKit, to unpack the big news: the 5% deposit scheme for first home buyers. What does it mean for property prices? Should you buy your first home to live in, or start with an investment property? And where are the growth hotspots in 2025? We also cover: The impact of the 5% deposit scheme and new price caps When buying to live in isn’t the best move Mortgage vs investment: what should you prioritise? Why you don’t actually need 8–10 properties to retire comfortably Key data points to spot growth locations How kids (yes, really) impact your borrowing power This is your September, straight-talking property market update to help you make smarter moves in 2025.   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Think budgeting is complicated? Glen James says there are only two types of budgets you’ll ever need and knowing the difference could change your financial life. In this episode of Get Rich, host Molly Benjamin sits down with Glen James, creator of the Glen James Spending Plan and host of the My Millennial Money podcast, to break down top-down vs bottom-up budgeting in a way that’s simple, practical, and actually works in real life. Whether you’re living week-to-week, trying to pay off debt, or saving for your first home, you’ll learn: The two types of budgets explained and which one works best depending on your stage of life How the bottom-up budgeting method works and why it’s perfect for people with existing expenses and commitments How to set up a weekly spending plan that covers bills, goals, and fun money (without the guilt) The 4 levers to pull when your budget isn’t working - including how to cut costs without feeling deprived Why habits matter more than spreadsheets when it comes to sticking to a budget long-term Common budgeting mistakes and myths and how to avoid them If you’ve ever searched how to budget, top-down vs bottom-up budgeting, or how to create a spending plan, this episode will give you a clear framework you can start using 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

How do you know if it’s the right time to get a financial advisor and more importantly, how do you find one you can actually trust? In this episode of Get Rich, host Molly Benjamin chats with Lexi Smith from Wealth Maximizer https://wealthmaximizer.com.au to demystify the world of financial advice in Australia. Whether you’re wondering if you should see a financial advisor, hire a money coach, or handle things yourself, this episode will help you make an informed choice. We cover: The difference between a financial advisor, a money coach, and a financial planner - and when to see each one The red flags when choosing a financial advisor (spoiler: if they promise “guaranteed returns,” run!) How much financial advice really costs in Australia - and the more affordable alternatives available Why so many Australians aren’t getting advice (and how this can impact your wealth) How Wealth Maximizer’s hybrid financial advice model works - combining professional licensed advice with an affordable, online-first approach Who should consider a traditional advisor vs. a digital-first service If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need a financial advisor?”, “How do I choose the right financial planner in Australia?”, or “What are the warning signs of a bad advisor?” - this episode is packed with practical tips, must-ask questions, and insider knowledge to help you protect your money and your future. 🔍 Links & Resources:Wealth Maximizer — Use code LFC (all caps) for 20% off all plans, T&Cs apply, expires 30 Sept 2025 https://www.wealthmaximiser.com.au/Check the ASIC Financial Advisers Register - Verify your advisor is licensed https://moneysmart.gov.au/financial-advice/financial-advisers-registerNational Debt Helpline - Free support for Australians in financial hardship https://ndh.org.au/   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Interest rates have just been cut - so what does that mean for property prices in 2025? In this episode, Molly Benjamin is joined by property expert Arjun Paliwal (InvestorKit) to break down the latest housing market update. From rising regional hot spots to whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, this is your essential property investing guide for 2025. Here’s what you’ll learn:🏡 How interest rate cuts are shaping property prices (and why it’s not always straightforward)📊 Buyers vs sellers: which markets are heating up and which still favour buyers🌏 Best places to buy property in Australia right now (Queensland, WA, and surprising regional towns)💡 Whether to turn your first home into an investment property or sell and upgrade📈 Why market sentiment and sales activity matter just as much as borrowing capacity💰 What property investors should do before buying or selling in 2025 Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading your home, or building a property portfolio, this episode gives you the data-driven insights to make smarter property decisions in 2025.   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Pregnant or planning a family? Wondering how much a baby really costs and how to budget for it?In this episode of Get Rich, we share practical, real-world money tips for first-time mums, expecting parents, and anyone preparing for life with a newborn. Molly Benjamin is joined by financial advisor Jayde Jenkins and soon-to-be mum Ash Cam to unpack the true cost of having a baby in Australia and how to get financially ready — without the overwhelm. We cover:✅ How to budget for a baby and create a baby emergency fund✅  Maternity leave money tips — including how to protect your superannuation✅  Public vs private birth costs (and what’s often left out of the budget)✅  The hidden expenses of newborn essentials and pregnancy care✅  Childcare costs, subsidies, and why you need to join waitlists early✅  Key pre-baby life admin: wills, insurance, joint accounts✅ How to start saving or investing for your child’s future Whether you’re an expecting parent or just starting to plan, this episode will help you prepare your finances, avoid common mistakes, and feel confident about your money before your baby arrives.   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.

Thinking about getting married, moving in with your partner, or protecting your assets? In this episode, family lawyer Carolina from Lander & Rogers joins Molly to explain the legal and financial steps every Australian should know before they say “I do”. You’ll learn:✅ What is a de facto relationship in Australia (and why the 2-year rule is a myth)✅ How binding financial agreements (prenups) work in Australia and when you should consider one✅ Costs of a prenup in Australia and how to avoid common mistakes✅ How to protect your assets when moving in with a partner✅ Why pet ownership is now recognised in Australian family law✅ Signs your partner may be hiding assets✅ Whether you need to be on the property title when buying together✅ Why “handshake” or “back of the napkin” agreements don’t stand up in court If you’re building wealth, expecting an inheritance, or want to safeguard your finances, this episode will give you practical tips, legal insights, and conversation starters to protect yourself before tying the knot or starting a life together. Moving in or getting married? Listen to this first   💌 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 at https://www.ladiesfinanceclub.com/newsletter25 Are we friends on Instagram? Follow us here at https://www.instagram.com/ladiesfinanceclub 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor, InvestorKit at https://www.investorkit.com.au/! 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.