Don’t ignore your super statement

At Aware Super, we know your annual super statement can look complex. But it’s one of the most important check‑ins you’ll have all year.

It shows how your super is tracking, what fees you’re paying, your insurance cover, and your beneficiaries. Details that are easy to overlook but important to get right.

That’s why Aware Super makes it easier to understand your statement, with clear information and helpful tools — including personalised projections to help you plan ahead.

Learn more

Consider if this is right for you and read the PDS and TMD on website. Issued by Aware Super Pty Ltd, trustee of Aware Super.

Today’s episode is about something many of us don’t realise is happening until we stop and really look at our bank account… subscription creep.

All those streaming services, apps, software subscriptions, food boxes, memberships and cloud storage plans that quietly pile up over time. In fact, ING’s latest research found Australians are now spending a staggering $26.5 billion a year on subscriptions - and the number keeps growing.

Because most of these services are only “a few dollars a month”, they often fly under the radar, even as they slowly start taking a bigger bite out of the household budget.

So in this episode, I sit down with Matt Bowen, Head of Consumer and Market Insights at ING Australia, to talk about the huge price tag of Australia’s subscription addiction, why these business models are so effective, and the practical things we can do to get the costs back under control.

We also tackle another financial task many people avoid entirely: opening their super statement. Kate Rolfe from Aware Super joins me to explain the three key numbers everyone should be checking, why fees matter more than people realise, and the important detail too many people leave blank.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• How much are people in their Prime Time years actually spending on subscriptions? Matt breaks down the generational differences and why younger Australians are spending almost double.

• The clever psychology behind free trials: Companies make it incredibly easy to sign up but difficult to leave.

• The simplest way to identify subscription creep: Matt shares why a quick scroll through your banking app can instantly reveal what’s draining your money.

• The rise of family bundles and shared accounts: From entertainment streaming to software and cloud storage, consolidating services can dramatically reduce costs.

• The “switch on, switch off” mindset shift: Matt explains why you don’t need every streaming service running all year round, and why rotating subscriptions can save both money and mental load.

• Are free trials a trap? Matt shares one simple habit that can stop “free” subscriptions turning into ongoing payments.

• Plus: why you should stop ignoring your super statement. Kate Rolfe from Aware Super explains the three key numbers everyone should be checking, why fees matter more than people realise, and why leaving your beneficiaries section blank could create major problems later.

From Bec’s Desk

Happy Prime Time podcast day! The week is almost over. I’ve been on the road to Sydney and Cairns this week speaking at the Financial Counsellors Conference - amazing people who help people in really difficult situations to untangle their debts, get back on their feet and rebuild their lives financially. I spoke about how Epic Retirements aren’t just for the wealthy.

And while I was travelling, I did a little look over the number of subscriptions I have 😳 and I think I need a tidy up! It’s amazing how these things creep up on you.

I want to remind you that you can download my retirement budgeting tool free from my website and use it to list out all your recurring subscriptions. (There’s instructions in How to Have an Epic Retirement - The book!). It’s a great way to keep track!

🌟 And I challenge you to get your super statement out and give it another look too. You can use The Epic Retirement Tick criteria and assessment to review how your super fund is tracking and whether it’s ready for your retirement

Thanks for listening! Cheers Bec Xx

Start with the life you want in retirement

It’s easy to focus on the money side of retirement and forget to plan the life part.
Aware Super’s free Retirement Guide helps work through the questions that really matter — your lifestyle, your goals and your timing. It’s packed with practical tools to help you feel more prepared, whether retirement is decades away or just around the corner.

When you’re ready to see how your lifestyle plans could stack up financially, My Retirement Planner^TM is a free tool that can help you understand what your retirement might look like.

Consider if this is right for you and read the PDS and TMD on website. Issued by Aware Super Pty Ltd, trustee of Aware Super.

BOOK CLUB: The hidden ways you’re being nudged to spend with Chris Kohler

It’s time for this month’s Prime Time Book Club episode, and this one might just change the way you look at your everyday spending.

Our April Book of the Month was How They Get You by Chris Kohler - a brilliant, slightly unsettling look at all the ways modern life quietly nudges us to spend more money. From subscriptions to loyalty programs, food delivery and even the way we pay.

These are all things we use every day… but rarely stop to question.

And what’s fascinating is, many of these systems didn’t always work the way they do now. They’ve evolved quickly, and often in ways that benefit businesses far more than consumers.

I’m joined by Chris himself to discuss how it all works; how companies get into our habits, our decisions, and ultimately… our wallets - and what you can do about it.

It’s one of those episodes where you’ll find yourself thinking, “I do that… I never realised why.”

You can find a copy of ‘How They Get You’ at all good book retailers & online here.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• The rise of the subscription economy: What started as convenience has turned into multiple ongoing payments that can quickly add up over time.

• Why convenience often costs more than we think: From food delivery to digital platforms, the easier option is often the more expensive one.

• What’s really happening behind food delivery apps: Restaurants, customers and delivery drivers all pay a price, while platforms take a significant cut from every order.

• The hidden cost of loyalty programs: They’re not “free” - you’re exchanging your data and purchasing behaviour for relatively small rewards.

• The rise of shrinkflation and “skimp-flation”: Products getting smaller while prices stay the same (or rise) is one of the most common ways we experience inflation today.

• Why paying with cash changes how you spend: The physical act of handing over money creates friction, which can help with budgeting and spending awareness.

• The reality of petrol pricing in Australia: The fuel price cycle creates large price differences, even between stations just a few kilometres apart.

• Why we’re losing the “old way” of doing things: Many industries are removing analogue options, making it harder to avoid fees, subscriptions and data tracking.

• The most practical takeaway: Be an active consumer. Set aside time once or twice a year to review your financial setup. Review your subscriptions, shop around, and make more deliberate choices about where your money goes.

From Bec’s Desk

It’s Prime Time day again - Thursdays are my favourite day of the week. And OMG Chris Kohler is just so good to listen to (and read!). I really enjoyed reading his book and making this show.

This week I’m in Perth, speaking at an event before doing a mad-dash home (on the red eye - ugh!) to be there for my year-12 sons Mother-Son Brekky. Important milestones! My last year-12-er. Lots of ‘lasts’ this year. Alongside it, I’m doing my own retirement planning - 10 years ahead of my flex-goal-timelines. But more on that in another show.

Alongside that, my 22 year old daughter, Paris, and I have been making TikToks and videos for her generation about how to save, invest and buy their first home - through her lens of what’s relevant today. It’s such a fun project and I’m thrilled many of our Prime Timers are writing to me, telling me they too are working with their kids on their financial literacy, using our videos and sitting with them to explain things. We’re calling it An.Epic.Start (just search for that on TikTok or Instagram and you’ll find us).

And finally, this weekend I’ll be signing books for our massive sending of welcome packs for the next How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course that kicks off on the 14th May. It’s our biggest course yet - hundreds and hundreds of attendees! We’ll be closing the Earlybird 25% off deal this weekend. So if you’ve been on the sidelines thinking ‘I’m not sure’ - don’t delay. The price jumps from $374 to $499 next week - and I want you all to enjoy the discount. What do you get?

1. 6 weeks of structured, well-organised education designed to walk you through the big lessons everyone needs to navigate as they approach and make decisions about retirement. (100 lessons, structured into 15 modules)

2. A 170 page print and digital workbook, mailed to you

3. A signed copy of the new edition of How to Have an Epic Retirement

4. 6 Live Q&A Events, held on Monday evenings each week with some of Australia’s most respected retirement experts

5. Challenges and quizzes to bring the program to life.

It’s a great way to really learn about all the choices you have, and to shape your plans for the future, without pressure. So - want to learn more, here’s the website. Head to www.epicretirement.net/upcoming-courses to learn more, download a brochure and book your place.

And enjoy my show with Chris Kohler’s this week - he’s great! Thanks for listening! Cheers Bec Xx

Retirement income – can the Aged Pension work for you?

Many Australians think retirement income is an either‑or choice — super or the Age Pension. But for most people, it’s actually a mix of both.

Understanding how these two sources work together can help you feel more confident planning retirement.

Aware Super offers a super helpful ‘Age Pension’ guide to support you through planning, so you can explore your options, check what support may be available, and make informed decisions based on your own situation.

Learn more and check your options at aware.com.au/agepension

Could you stop working tomorrow… and still get paid?

We spend our working lives earning an income. But at some point, the game changes completely.

The paycheck stops. And suddenly we’re not earning an income from full time work anymore, instead, we need to learn how to manage a more passive set of income streams. Super, the Age Pension, maybe a bit of work, some investments on the side. And for each layer, there’s different sources, different rules, and different timing. All of it needs to work together to replace the one simple income most people had before.

And that’s where most people get caught out. It’s not because they haven’t saved enough. It’s simply because nobody ever taught them how to actually run this thing called retirement.

This week on Prime Time, I sit down with Xavier O’Halloran from Super Consumers Australia and Kate Rolfe, Head of Retirement Strategy at Aware Super. We get into the real mechanics of layering a retirement income; what the sources are, how they shift across different phases of retirement, and how to build a picture that actually works for your life.

In this episode we also discussed the Super Consumers Australia’s Retirement Savings Targets. You can find them here.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• What does retirement income actually look like? It’s not one paycheck. Super, the Age Pension, investments, even part-time work all layer together to create your income, and the mix looks different for everyone.

• How your income changes across different phases of retirement: Early retirement, accessing super, then the Age Pension - your income mix evolves over time, and needs to be actively managed.

• Why most people underestimate the role of the Age Pension: For many Australians, it becomes the backbone of retirement income, often making up more than half of what people live on.

• How much do you actually need to live on? Everything starts with this question. Xavier walks through the Super Consumers Australia benchmarks, including what the numbers look like for renters, which tells a very different story.

• The biggest mindset shift people struggle with: We spend our whole lives accumulating. Xavier explains why switching gears to actually spending down your capital - with confidence - is harder than it sounds, and what actually helps.

• Why “passive income” isn’t really passive: Managing multiple income streams takes planning, and for most people, relying purely on investment earnings isn’t realistic.

• Why the transition years are more powerful than you think: The period when you’re working less but not fully retired is the ideal time to trial your spending, test different income arrangements, and figure out what retirement costs before you fully commit.

• What to do if you feel like you’ve left it too late: Xavier shares the most effective levers, including why being in the wrong super fund could cost you $200,000 across retirement.

• The biggest mistakes people make setting up their retirement income: From falling for high-pressure super switching ads on social media, to over-complicating your setup, to dying with a large balance you never intended to leave behind.

From Bec’s Desk

It’s been another fun week of stages and airports. And in between, podcast recordings and article writing. It keeps me busy, entertained and on the upside - it pays the bills. And I love getting out there and seeing your curious faces, talking modern retirement and midlife.

But the project I’m most enjoying is trying to think up ideas for reels to help you grasp retirement in very small bite-sized pieces. So if you’ve got a question you want me to cover - send it in. (Remembering I can’t give personal advice and I have to be able to answer the question in 1.30 or less)

Now - I have to encourage anyone who hasn’t got their seat on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course to lock in their place soon. We’ve extended the earlybird deal beyond the starting 200 seats we promised to offer it on. And we have to close it soon so we can send out the welcome packs. The 6-week get ready for retirement course kicks off on the 14th May.

You can download a brochure and book your place here. www.epicretirement.net/upcoming-courses

And until next week - Make your Prime Time count.

Cheers, Bec

We spend so much time obsessing over our super, property and portfolios, but we often ignore our most valuable asset: our ability to earn.

Think about it… your career isn’t just a job - it’s an asset that needs constant reinvestment.

And yet, I see so many people with big, successful careers getting caught off guard by restructures, redundancies or shifts in the market, suddenly unemployed and underprepared for what comes next. So how do you protect your employability in midlife and beyond?

In this episode, I sit down with Jannine Fraser, who works right at the coalface helping people navigate career transitions when things go wrong. She’s the managing director of outplacement firm Directioneering, which means she’s the one helping people pick up the pieces and reshape what comes next.

This is an open honest conversation about what’s actually changing in the job market and what you can do now to stay relevant, ready and resilient.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• Why “job security” is the wrong way to think about your career: What matters more is employability security and your ability to adapt.

• What’s really happening in the job market right now: The market is tightening, roles are taking longer to secure, competition is increasing, and even senior professionals are moving into contract work.

• Why midlife can be a high-risk zone: Many people in their 50s have stopped actively managing their careers, just as the market is demanding more adaptability and new skills.

• Why most people don’t treat their career like an asset: If people invested the same time and strategy into their income as they do their investments, they’d be in a far stronger position.

• What “staying employable” actually looks like: It’s not about always being job-ready, it’s about staying current, connected, curious and engaged in your field.

• The hidden factor that impacts employability more than people realise: Your energy, presentation, connection and how current you appear all play a role, even if it feels superficial.

• The biggest mindset shift: Take responsibility for your employability. No one else will manage your career for you.

• Career changes in your 50s and 60s: Being creative at the right moments around what’s next may increase your longevity of employment substantially.

From Bec’s Desk

This week I’m writing from a very chilly Hobart where it “feels like 5 degrees”. I’m back on the AMP North Adviser Roadshow, and this is my second destination this week, having spent a day in Adelaide with the Super SA Education team working on strategy too.

A bit of a shock to the system after those 30-degree Brisbane days.

Nevertheless, life on social media has just kept going. I am loving making reels each day, whenever I can, with new titbits and lessons to help. If you have ideas or questions - feel free to send them my way!

—

But what I really want this week is your help!

We’re putting together a podcast (or two) about you — how you’re finding your sense of purpose, reinvention, and direction in your Prime Time and into retirement.

So we want to hear your stories. In both letters and in voice messages (you can just hit audio record on your phone to record it then email it to me if you want!)

Tell us things like:

• How have you reinvented yourself or found a fresh sense of purpose lately? A hobby, volunteering, pickleball obsession, sports club… anything.

• Have you shifted out of the 9-to-5 into part-time work as a way to ease into this next chapter?

• Downsizing stories — have you packed up the big family home and made a move to something smaller or different?

Big changes, small changes, unexpected twists — it’s all gold.

Send them in — I’d love to hear what your Prime Time is really looking like in short, experiential stories.

Send me an email to bec@epicretirement.com.au or if you want or just reply to this email, send an audio-grab (no more than 3 min please) of you talking about your changes, twists or new passions.

There really is nothing better than REAL stories! Thanks for being a part of the fun on the show!

—

The second thing I’d love your help with is An Epic Start.

This is a project I’m doing with my daughter (alongside the retirement and midlife education I always do). We’ve kicked it off as a TikTok and Instagram channel… and it’s official — we’re writing a book together too - called… An Epic Start.

The idea is simple. It’s a place you can point your adult kids to — to help them get started right at the beginning with financial literacy. And you can help and support them alongside it.

We’re setting ourselves a real goal: taking Paris from almost nothing at 22 to buying her first home before she’s 25.

I’m teaching her how to do it — and we’re learning out loud as we go. Because the rules aren’t the same as they were when I bought a house - so we need to ‘figure it out’ and we’re asking a whole heap of awesome people for their advice and the information we need along the way too!

We’re talking budgeting, saving, investing, mindset, asset protection, and what it actually takes to get on the property ladder today.

And more broadly, we’re learning how we can help young people get an epic start. And we’re already having lots of fun with the tiktoks and Insta reels! So come on over and follow us. And send your adult kids.

Cheers Bec Wilson Xx

The Earlybird 25% off deal is not going to last.

Our next program kicks off on 14 May, and Earlybird (25% off) is limited to the first 200 places - and they’re nearly full. So don’t delay if you’re planning on booking - do it now!

This is a six-week retirement education program designed to build your confidence and help you make sense of the many decisions ahead.

If you’re starting to think seriously about what comes next, this is the perfect way to get prepared.

Learn more about the course here ➡️

One of the biggest challenges I see for people in Prime Time isn’t a lack of money. It’s a lack of clear, trustworthy guidance.

People know they’re making big decisions. They know the stakes are high. But full financial advice can feel expensive or intimidating. Free information often comes with hidden incentives. And online tools, including AI, can leave you feeling more overwhelmed, not less - or with more questions to answer.

So, this week on Prime Time, I chat to Paul Feeney, founder and CEO of Otivo and someone who has spent years inside the advice industry in a variety of roles. It’s a refreshingly honest take on where it works, where it falls short, and what everyday Australians can do about it. The reality is that quality personalised advice has historically been more accessible to people with significant assets, leaving many everyday Australians without affordable guidance at the very moment they need it most. 

We dig into the real difference between information, guidance and advice, because these words get thrown around a lot and they don’t mean the same thing. Information educates, guidance helps, and regulated advice is personalised to your exact situation.

We also explore the use of AI for advice. These tools are genuinely useful for exploring ideas, stress-testing thinking and preparing smart questions before you see an adviser or call your super fund. And Paul talks a little about the digital advice that is starting to become available from superfunds and companies like his own.

And he’s offered everyone listening an opportunity to try out Otivo. To set up a free Otivo account you can go to www.otivo.com and use the discount code ‘Otivo4EpicRetirementor’. This coupon is only valid until 30 June 2026.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• Who the current advice system is really built for: If you don’t have significant assets, the traditional advice model often isn’t built for you. That leaves 85–90% of Australians in a gap between “too complex to DIY” and “too expensive to get help.”

• Information vs guidance vs advice - what’s the real difference? Most people don’t actually know what they’re getting when they seek “help.” We unpack the language and why understanding it changes how you approach your next decision.

• How to spot conflicts, even when something looks “free”: We talk about one simple question to ask when looking for an adviser: How does this person get paid? If you understand the incentives, you understand the behaviour.

• Why delaying decisions can be more harmful than making small imperfect ones: Paul shares why the fear of messing up (FOMU as he calls it!) keeps people frozen - and why starting small, especially earlier in life, often matters more than getting it perfect.

• Fees, returns and what you can actually control: We unpack the difference between investment returns and fees, and why fees and asset allocation are the levers you can control, even when markets aren’t.

• Using AI for financial decisions: We explore where AI genuinely help and where it can create false confidence, especially when it misses critical variables.

• What the future of advice might look like: Paul believes that in ten years, advice won’t feel like a separate, expensive service. Instead, it will be embedded in the financial systems we already use.

From Bec’s Desk

Happy Easter! I hope you had a lovely long weekend – and if you’re still enjoying an extended break, even better. Not me! I’ve been happily holed up in my studio working on new projects, podcasts, articles, and courses.

One thing I’m especially excited about: over the weekend, my daughter Paris and I finally launched a project we’ve been talking about for months. She’s 22, wants to learn how to save and buy her first home by 25, and we both noticed how hard it is for young people to find easy-to-understand information about getting started in life. So together we’ve created an Instagram and TikTok channel called An Epic Start – where we’ll share our real journey to help her do exactly that.

The response has been wonderful. So many of you have already forwarded it to your kids, and Paris has been flooded with messages from friends whose parents sent it their way. It’s shaping up to be a community for both parents and young people who want practical, honest information about how things work and what you need to learn about – and we plan to have a lot of fun along the way. Join us here:

Instagram.com/an.epic.start and Tiktok.com/@an.epic.start
This is going to be real, honest and fun!

And a quick reminder – our How to Have an Epic Retirement course on 14 May is now on sale, and the early bird 25% discount has been flying out the door. If you’re keen, don’t wait too long – that price won’t last!

More information here: epicretirement.net/upcoming-courses

Now, back to that post-easter chocolate pile. The health kick can always fit in a few treats! Til next week… make your Prime Time count!

Cheers, Bec

A guide to downsizing from your family home

Downsizing the family home is one of those decisions that sits in the background for years…until suddenly, it’s right in front of you.

This week on Prime Time, I sit down with regular guest Mike Chesworth to talk about the good, the bad and the reality of downsizing after more than 30 years in the same home.

Big house. Kids grown. Life shifting.

And like so many people in this stage of life, the question becomes… is it time?

In this episode, Mike shares what actually goes into making that decision, from figuring out your “why”, to navigating timing, finances, bridging loans, strata, inspections and the chaos of moving just before Christmas. Along the way, he reflects on what it means to future-proof life in your 60s, let go of the weight of a big home, and create a lifestyle that offers more freedom, flexibility, and ease.

Mike offers hard-won insights into choosing the right property, getting clear on your priorities, managing costs, and treating a move like a project rather than a challenge.

It’s an inspiring listen for anyone wondering whether a simpler, lighter way of living might be closer than they think.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• What it really feels like to leave a home after 30+ years: After decades in the same house, the decision isn’t just practical, it’s also deeply emotional, especially when it’s been the centre of family life.

• Why most people sit on the decision for years: For Mike, downsizing had been in the background for five years before becoming a real conversation.

• The four questions that guide the whole process: Why are we doing this? When will we do it? How will we do it? What are we moving to?

• The moment the house no longer fits your life: When it’s just two people in a large home, the upkeep, security and unused space start to outweigh the benefits.

• Future-proofing before you have to: Thinking ahead to stairs, maintenance and mobility - and making the move while you still have full choice and control.

• Why starting the decluttering early changes everything: Spending years gradually letting go of “stuff” made the final move far less overwhelming.

• Getting crystal clear on your non-negotiables: From no stairs to space for family dinners and hobbies, having clear criteria meant they only needed to look at a handful of properties.

• The hidden costs people don’t think about: Bridging finance, marketing, inspections, compliance and agent fees; all the extras that add up quickly.

• Why you need to treat it like a project: From booking removalists early to managing timelines, a successful move comes down to planning, not luck.

Booked your place on the next Epic Retirement Flagship Course yet?

Our next program kicks off on 14 May, and Earlybird (25% off) is now open—but places are limited.

This is a six-week retirement education program designed to build your confidence and help you make sense of the many decisions ahead.

If you’re starting to think seriously about what comes next, this is the perfect way to get prepared.

Learn more about the course here ➡️

BOOK CLUB: The power of ‘I don’t give a sh*t lit!’ with Kathy Lette

It’s month two of the Prime Time Book Club, and this one is an absolute hoot.

This month we’re diving into The Sisterhood Rules by the one and only Kathy Lette - and yes, she’s back on the show with us for a proper book club sit-down… and the kind of girl talk we don’t have nearly enough of.

If you’ve ever read chick lit, chances are Kathy has been part of your life. From Puberty Blues to now, she’s been soundtracking the different stages of womanhood, and this latest book is firmly for us in midlife.

I’ve just finished it and I loved it. It’s sharp, funny, rebellious… and underneath all of that, it’s about something much deeper: what happens when women of a certain age stop playing by the rules and start leaning into the power of the sisterhood.

In this episode, we talk about everything from falling out with the women closest to you, to ageing, sex, reinvention… and why midlife might just be the moment you stop caring what anyone else thinks and start having a lot more fun.

You can find a copy of ‘The Sisterhood Rules’ at all good book retailers & online here.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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• LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Highlights of the conversation:

• “I don’t give a sh*t lit”: Kathy’s new genre is all about women in midlife letting go of expectations, speaking their minds and finally caring a whole lot less about what anyone else thinks.

• Why we need the sisterhood more than ever: From global issues to everyday life, Kathy makes the case that female friendship, loyalty and solidarity aren’t optional, they’re essential right now.

• When friendships break down (and how painful that really is): Falling out with a sister or close friend can cut deeper than a romantic breakup, and this story explores what it takes to find your way back.

• The rules of the sisterhood: From “never let a man come between you” to always taking her side in a breakup, Kathy shares the playful (but pointed) rules of the sisterhood.

• Why midlife is when everything shifts: There’s a moment where you stop seeking approval, care less about judgement, and start stepping fully into who you are - and it’s incredibly freeing.

• The double standard around ageing (and why Kathy’s not having it): Men get labelled “love gods.” Women get labelled “old.” Kathy flips that narrative and calls out the outdated rules around ageing and visibility.

• Sex, confidence and freedom in your 50s and 60s: Far from fading away, Kathy argues this can be a woman’s most confident and liberated stage, where you know what you want and aren’t afraid to ask for it.

• Money vs happiness: As the story unfolds, it raises a deeper question: at this stage of life, what actually matters most?

• The real takeaway: don’t shrink in midlife. This isn’t the time to fade politely into the background. It’s a time for friendship, freedom, honesty… and maybe breaking a few rules along the way.

From Bec’s Desk

It’s hard to believe it’s Easter already! Where did the first quarter of the year go? This week, as you head off onto your Easter break, I’ve got two shows for you to enjoy. I hope you have plenty of downtime to relax into them. Mike tells an honest story of his recent Sydney downsizing! And Kathy Lette, the chick-lit legend is back to talk about her new book for our monthly Bookclub episode.

This week I’ve been on the road, but near home, speaking to financial advisers in the Gold Coast and Brisbane with AMP North. It’s been a real buzz - because they put on a fabulous show!

And, as you might have seen, the Earlybird Deal for the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for May/June 2026 has launched. The first 200 people to book will get our 25% off pricing. It’s been a busy week of sales - so if you’re thinking about it… don’t delay too long!

Learn more about the course here ➡️

Book your place here ➡️

And, if over the holidays you’re reading something good - let me know. I’m hungry for ideas for books we should be reading this year in our book club. Be sure to send them in… just hit reply!

Now, off you go and enjoy the break - make your Prime Time count!

Cheers, Bec

Today on the show, I’ve got a real treat for you.

I’m talking to one of the world’s leading thinkers on the future of technology, robotics and artificial intelligence - and what that future might actually look like for us.

Dr Catherine Ball is a global expert in AI, robotics and emerging technologies. She’s worked across fields like drones, digital twins and automation, and has spent years advising governments, universities and industry on how these technologies are reshaping our world.

If you’re in mid-life or heading for retirement right now, the reality is that we’re going to see extraordinary technological change over the next 10, 20 and 30 years: AI. Robotics. Smart homes. Personalised healthcare. Maybe even robotic carers.

So what will that actually mean for us?

This is a fascinating conversation. And what I love about Catherine’s perspective is that she’s not just talking about technology for technology’s sake. She’s thinking deeply about how it changes how we live, how we age, and how we stay independent in the second half of life.

You can find out more about Catherine’s research here, and learn more about her latest book, ‘The Future of Sleep’ here.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• The pace of change is accelerating faster than we think: What took 30 years with the internet, we’re now likely to see in just a few years with AI, across how we live, work and manage our health.

• The future is already here, just not evenly distributed: Some of these technologies already exist today, but access and adoption will vary, raising big questions about equity and who benefits first.

• From robot vacuums to humanoids in the home: What starts as small conveniences (like vacuum mops) is quickly evolving into humanoid robots that could cook, clean, assist with care and help people stay independent longer.

• The rise of “ambient AI” in everyday life": Technology is becoming invisible, from smart beds and lamps to sensors that can monitor your health, detect falls or flag early warning signs without you even noticing.

• A revolution in healthcare and longevity: AI is dramatically accelerating drug discovery and personalised medicine, with the potential to change how we age, treat disease and extend our healthspan.

• How work, and retirement, may fundamentally change: With AI improving efficiency, we may see shorter work weeks, different career paths and a redefinition of what “retirement” even means.

• The skills that will matter most in an AI world: Human skills - communication, creativity, analog thinking - will become more valuable, not less, as we learn to work alongside AI.

• Your homework: start using AI now: The best way to prepare isn’t to fear it; it’s to engage with it. Experiment, ask questions, build simple tools and start understanding what it can do.

From Bec’s Desk

It was a busy start to the week. A trip to Canberra to speak at the the Adviser Roadshow of AMP North, talking about The Future of Retirement. It was pretty fun. I love chatting with all the Advisers at the event too!

And even more fun - yesterday, we launched the Earlybird Deal for the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for May/June 2026. The first 200 people to book will get our 25% off pricing. There was hundreds of people on the waiting list when we launched so don’t mess about.

Learn more about the course here ➡️

Book your place here ➡️

Cheers, Bec

Why FIBRE is your missing ingredient to longevity

Today I want to talk about something that doesn’t get a lot of airtime, but is becoming increasingly important for your health in the second half of life…

Fibre.

For years it’s been overshadowed by protein trends, low-carb diets and the obsession with calories. But new science is revealing that fibre may be one of the most powerful ingredients for long-term health, influencing everything from gut health and weight to brain function, heart health and even our mood.

So, this week on Prime Time, I’m joined by PhD-qualified nutrition scientist, dietitian, food futurist and one of Australia’s most trusted health experts, Dr. Joanna McMillan, author of The Fibre Factor. You can find Dr. Joanna’s book at all good retailers and online here.

We unpack why many of us are living in what she calls a “fibre famine”, what fibre actually does inside the body, and how simple changes to what you eat can have surprisingly powerful effects on your long-term health.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why we’re living through a global “fibre famine”: Modern diets have slowly stripped fibre out of our food, from refined grains to ultra-processed meals, leaving many of us far below the levels our bodies actually need.

• Fibre isn’t just one thing, it’s many different compounds: Different types of fibre perform different jobs in the body - some move food through the gut, some bind toxins and cholesterol, and others feed the gut microbiome, producing compounds that affect the whole body.

• The surprising connection between fibre and brain health: Certain fibres feed gut bacteria that produce compounds able to travel through the bloodstream, cross into the brain and help reduce inflammation and protect brain cells.

• The role between fibre, blood sugar and metabolic health: Fibre slows how quickly glucose enters the bloodstream, helping prevent the blood sugar spikes that contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes over time.

• Fibre and bowel health, including diverticulitis and bowel cancer: We unpack how fibre helps maintain healthy digestion, reduces strain on the colon and supports the production of protective compounds in the gut.

• Why variety matters more than supplements: One fibre supplement won’t solve the problem. What your microbiome really needs is diversity.

• What a fibre-rich day of eating can actually look like: From oats and berries at breakfast to legumes, whole grains and vegetables across the day, Dr. Joanna shares simple food choices that can dramatically lift your fibre intake.

From Bec’s Desk

Another week ticks by and it’s been a big one behind the scenes.

I’ve spent a lot of time in my ever-improving home recording studio, filming our UK course – pensions and pounds instead of dollars and superannuation! It’s been a fun shift, and a good reminder that while the systems change, the questions people have about retirement really don’t.

I’ve also been working on a new social media series about the Age Pension changes and the “sweet spot.” If you want to follow along, make sure you’re connected with me on Facebook or Instagram. I’ll be sharing it all there.

At the same time, we’re gearing up for the release of our next Aussie How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course, kicking off in May. Earlybird bookings will be opening very soon… so keep an eye out.

Next week, I hit the road for four weeks of roadshows with the AMP team, speaking to advisers about the future of retirement. I always enjoy these sessions. It’s where I get to bring the voice of everyday Australians into the room and talk about what people actually need and want from advice now.

And in between all of that, I’ve been reading our March Book Club pick: Sisterhood Rules by Kathy Lette. It’s a wild ride – fun, fast, and very reflective of modern life. Think: a mischievous 69-year-old running off with a younger lover, daughters chasing her down, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Now I need your help.

I’m choosing next month’s Prime Time Book Club read, and I’d love your suggestions. If there’s a book you think we should dive into – fiction, non-fiction, inspiring, entertaining – hit reply and let me know.

I can’t wait to see what you recommend. Have a good week and don’t forget to Make your Prime Time count!

Cheers, Bec

It’s Thursday again. And this week we’ve bumped our pre-planned podcast schedule to bring you two timely, up-to-the-minute episodes relevant to the war in the Middle East and how it might affect you.

First, we recorded a timely conversation with Diana Mousina, Deputy Chief Economist at AMP, about the war’s impact on financial markets, your super and retirement savings, and how to react to the volatility (the key message: don’t panic).

Then we recorded another episode just yesterday with Fiona Dalton, our very experienced travel guru. This one focuses on what you should be thinking about if you’ve got travel booked in the coming months, or are considering booking a trip. We cover the cancelled flights through the Middle East, what’s actually happening with the airlines, and some practical strategies if you’re affected or concerned.

Ultimately, I want you to come away from both episodes with less panic and a clearer understanding of how to navigate what’s happening right now.

I hope you enjoy the shows and get something useful from each of them.

Got thoughts? Share them here.

Leave a comment

More on each episode below.

Until next week - Make your Prime Time count - then have an Epic Retirement!

Cheers - Bec Xx

How to salvage your travel plans

The conflict in the Middle East has disrupted airspace across one of the world’s biggest travel hubs, leaving many Australians wondering whether they should cancel their upcoming trips.

In this urgent episode, I speak with travel expert Fiona Dalton to unpack what’s actually happening with global travel right now, who is affected, and what travellers should do before making any big decisions.

Fiona explains why the disruption is largely centred around Middle Eastern transit hubs such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, what options travellers have if their flights are impacted, and why cancelling too early could actually leave you worse off financially.

The key message: stay calm, stay connected to your airline, and don’t rush into cancelling your trip but make sure you understand your options.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why three major Middle Eastern airports are suddenly at the centre of global travel disruption

• The three groups of Australians most affected by the current situation

• The one mistake travellers should avoid making right now with their flights

• What airlines are doing behind the scenes to keep flights operating safely

• Whether you’ll get your money back and how it might pan out

• Why cancelling your trip too early could actually cost you more money

• How flexible airline policies are changing almost daily

• The alternative routes airlines are using to get Australians to Europe

• A surprisingly simple “backup flight” strategy some travellers are using

• Why travel to Europe itself is still considered safe at this stage

• Other incredible destinations to consider if you’re rethinking your plans

War and sharemarket volatility: what pre-retirees need to know

Markets have been on a rollercoaster this week. Oil prices have surged and dropped, the S&P has swung sharply, and headlines out of the Middle East are making investors nervous.

If you’re approaching retirement or already there, seeing your super balance fall hard in a single day then bounce around all week can feel deeply unsettling .

So what’s really going on? And how worried should you be?

In this episode of Prime Time, I speak with Diana Mousina, Deputy Chief Economist at AMP, to unpack the current market volatility, the impact of rising oil prices, and what geopolitical shocks typically mean for long-term investors and people approaching retirement now.

Diana explains why markets often react sharply to global conflicts in the short term but tend to recover over time.

They also discuss what people nearing retirement should focus on right now, how diversification and cash buffers help manage market shocks, and why constantly checking your super balance may be doing more harm than good.

If the headlines have made you uneasy about your investments this week, this episode offers a calm, practical look at what matters — and what doesn’t — when markets get volatile.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Global markets have been volatile this week as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East push oil prices sharply higher, creating uncertainty for investors.

• Rising oil prices matter because they ripple through the economy, increasing costs for businesses and acting like a tax on consumers.

• Despite the current headlines, history shows that markets usually recover from geopolitical shocks and are often higher within a year.

• Superannuation portfolios are built for this kind of volatility through diversification across shares, cash, bonds and alternative assets.

• For people approaching retirement, having around two years of cash reserves can help avoid selling investments during market downturns.

• Recent super fund returns have been very strong, with several years of double-digit gains, which helps put short-term falls into perspective.

• Inflation in Australia is still expected to trend downward, even though higher oil prices could temporarily lift headline inflation.

• Media coverage of daily market falls can amplify fear, often without showing the broader context of long-term gains.

• Even professional investors feel uncertainty during volatile periods because predicting how geopolitical events will unfold is impossible.

• The most practical advice during periods of market stress: stop checking your super balance every day and remember that volatility is part of long-term investing.

Well hello and happy Thursday! Prime Time podcast day!

We’ve got two huge episodes this week to talk about, and they’re both important so make sure you make the time to listen.

Firstly, we’ve released the 2026/27 criteria for the Epic Retirement Tick, and I’ve asked both Ian Fryer, from Chant West and David Bell from The Conexus Institute to pull them apart with me on the show. We’re going to explain how you can review your superfund in the year ahead and how we’ll be running the tick review. (Download the new criteria at epicretirement.net/epictick).

Secondly, the cost of a comfortable retirement leapt this week - by $35k for singles and $40k for couples. So we got Mary Delahunty from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) on the show to explain why the cost of all retirements is going up - and we talk about modest retirements and renters’ retirements too. This show dropped on Tuesday. It’s a goodie.

Alongside these two, it’s been a busy week. We’ve got two courses running - the Epic Retirement Flagship Course and the HESTA Exclusive Edition of the course. It’s kept me entertained in live-online-events in the evenings.

And in the daytimes, I’ve been to Sydney and back, recording an industry briefing for The Epic Retirement Tick that we’ll release next week too - an important insight for funds, advisers and others in the industry that want a more detailed walk through of the new criteria. Because, let’s face it, this tick is the only rigorous, transparent consumer-oriented assessment that everyday people can really use to assess their fund at retirement. It’s getting a lot of support, momentum and discussion in the industry as people can see it making a difference - and I know I speak for both Ian and myself and our teams when I say, that’s exciting.

So - I hope you enjoy these shows and get something from each of them.

Got thoughts? Share them here.

Leave a comment

More on each episode below.

Until next week - Make your Prime Time count - then have an Epic Retirement!

Cheers - Bec Xx

and PS - I did my first pickleball lesson on the weekend - more on this very soon. But it was awesome! If you’ve found pickleball already - give this post a big 👍.

Choosing the right superfund in 2026: the criteria are changing

If you’ve ever looked at your super fund and thought, “Is this actually delivering for my retirement… or just delivering great ads?” – this episode is for you.

Today is a major update to the Epic Retirement Tick for 2026.

I’m joined by Ian Fryer, General Manager of Chant West, who works with me to develop the rigorous criteria and together with his team, assess the funds. And David Bell, Executive Director of the Conexus Institute – one of Australia’s leading independent retirement policy voices and think tanks.

We go deeper than just explaining what’s changed. We unpack why the criteria matter – and the impact the Tick is already having inside super funds.

Because here’s the problem…

Over the past few years, I realised there was a real gap for people heading into retirement. If you’re a member of a super fund right now, how do you actually know if it’s delivering for your retirement?

Every fund says they are. Every ad says they are.

But when you look closely, there are big differences. Some funds are building serious retirement capability - some awesome stuff for their members to use. Others are moving much more slowly. And everyday Australians can’t see the difference.

Because I don’t hold a financial services licence, I can’t tell you which funds are good or bad. So instead of giving opinions (that would be finfluencing and that’s illegal), we built a framework you can use to judge, and we can use to rigorously assess the funds, transparently.

We launched the Epic Retirement Tick in 2025. Only six funds were awarded the Tick. Now we’re back with updated criteria for 2026.

The big shift?
The framework moves to 20 criteria (up from 18) and aligns with the latest Treasury Retirement Income Covenant guidance. They also put pressure on funds to deliver better products, services and advice for members approaching retirement.

In this episode, Ian and David help break down what’s changed – and what it means for you.

You can download the new 2026 criteria on the main website for the Epic Retirement Tick here: epicretirement.net/epictick

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why it’s so hard for everyday people to tell the difference between super fund ads and real retirement capability

• What the Epic Retirement Tick is (and why it’s designed to lift the bar across the whole industry)

• What’s changed this year: 20 criteria (up from 18), now more robust and more focused

• The three buckets every fund is assessed on:

  • Product design

  • Education, guidance and advice

  • Service delivery

• What it now takes to earn the Tick: 14 out of 20

• Why we’re still not naming the funds that miss out (for now)

• The “behind the scenes” truth: the Tick is already pushing retirement projects up the funding and priority list inside funds

• The service standards that matter when you’re actually retiring: speed, call centre responsiveness, payment efficiency, complaints handling, and cyber security

This episode is for anyone who just wants a straight answer to one question:
Is my fund actually doing the job I need it to do for retirement?

If you want to see the criteria, we’ll make it available on the Epic Retirement Institute website at www.epicretirement.net/epictick.

The cost of retirement just went up; Here’s what you need to know

For the first time in three years, ASFA has lifted the lump sum needed for a “comfortable” and a “modest” retirement. The headlines say Australians may now need $35k–$40k more in super than previously estimated for a comfortable retirement and $10-$20k more for a modest retirement.

So… what changed?

In this episode, I sit down with Mary Delahunty, CEO of ASFA, the creators of these benchmarks to unpack the new Retirement Standard, why the benchmark moved, and what it actually means for your future plans.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why the comfortable retirement target jumped for the first time in three years

• The real reason retirees are feeling cost pressure (hint: it’s not just CPI)

• The updated lump sums for comfortable, modest and renters

• The annual spending numbers that matter more than the headline figure

• How much the Age Pension really does in a modest retirement

• What “comfortable” actually includes (and no, it’s not luxury Europe every year)

• Deeming rates explained in plain English

• How ASFA builds the Retirement Standard using real spending data

• The big fear: “Will my super run out?” – and how the system is designed to prevent that

If you’re 5–10 years out from retirement and just getting comfortable with your numbers, this episode will steady you.

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River and ocean cruising in your Prime Time with KATHY LETTE

There are some guests who don’t just talk about living boldly in the second half of life - they embody it.

This week on Prime Time, I’m joined by the brilliant Kathy Lette, bestselling author, feminist, travel writer and unapologetic Prime Timer, to talk about something I think more of us need to give ourselves permission to do:

travel differently after 50.

Not the frantic, kid-focused, schlepping suitcases across train platforms kind of travel.

But travel on your own terms. With curiosity and comfort. With a little bit of decadence, a lot of history, culture and adventure. And ideally… no kids and no casinos.

Kathy shares how her approach to travel has evolved from backpacking in her twenties to river cruising and archaeological voyages in her sixties, and why she believes this stage of life is when adventure matters most.

Her latest book is called The Sisterhood Rules, and it’s also our pick for March for the Prime Time Book Club.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• “Adventure before dementia.” Kathy’s motto is simple: if not now, when? Time is finite. Experiences matter. And this may be the first stage of life where we finally put ourselves first.

• Why women are travelling more boldly than ever: With economic independence and a strong sisterhood around us, women in midlife are no longer waiting for permission. From “grey backpackers” taking over youth hostels to girlfriends travelling together when partners prefer to stay home, this is a generation rewriting the rules.

• The freedom of child-free travel: We laugh about family holidays and what Kathy misses least, and we talk about what it feels like to travel without putting everyone else’s needs first for the first time in decades.

• River cruising: Europe’s greatest hits, minus the hassle: From Lisbon to Porto and along the Douro, Kathy describes river cruising as seeing Europe’s architectural and cultural gems without the airport chaos, luggage schlepping or constant logistics. You unpack once, and the world comes to you.

• Ocean cruising as education in motion: Her archaeological voyage from Athens to Istanbul becomes more than a holiday - it’s a moving classroom. Ancient civilizations, expert guides, onboard lectures and layer upon layer of history.

• The value equation: For Australians especially, getting to Europe is a big investment. We discuss why having food, excursions and experiences bundled upfront can make cruises feel less like constant spending and more like intentional immersion.

From Bec’s Desk

I toured a Viking ocean ship on Wednesday when it ported in Brisbane and I have to say, it’s a really beautiful ship. The timing was uncanny, (and completely unplanned), given this show goes live the day after the tour. After walking through it with travel agents and media, I feel like I understand a little more clearly why they say people keep going back to Viking once they’ve done their first cruise.

I also learnt a few insider things about how Viking operates, the kind of details frequent cruisers and travel agents might know but us everyday people don’t find out ‘til we’ve tried it. So, I thought it would be fun to share my ‘did you knows’ with you today...

• Every one of their ships follows the same Nordic design, and it’s clearly well thought through. There are historically-relevant tapestries in the stairwells, Nordic patterns in the rugs and in the window treatments. It’s stylish, cohesive and elegant without feeling in any way overdone.

• All the food and non-alcoholic beverages you want are included on board so you don’t get stung once you’re on there (breakfast, lunch and dinner on sea days and breakfast and dinner on excursion days… it sounds very inclusive of every meal you need.)

• There’s a very affordable beverage package if you want to drink wines, beers and other beverages (I think they quoted it at AUD$41 per head) and they’re not bottom-shelf wines!

• You can also bring your wines on board with you (say you’re cruising through Burgundy) and there’s no corkage - and no rules that say you can’t.

• There’s free internet on all ships… again, not getting stung.

• Higher cabin categories get earlier access to book special excursions and priority access to their premium dining experiences. There’s a cap on the two specialty restaurants on board and some of the premium excursions, so stepping up your cabin type does come with some perks.

• Every room on an ocean ship has a balcony.

• The Nordic spa rooms are available for all and include hot pool, snow room, sauna, lounges, (it’s stunning). And there's a HUGE and super-modern gym.

• There’s only 998 passengers on the ocean ships. And 190 on their river cruises. (These seem like a nice uncrowded number given the spaciousness of the restaurants and sitting areas.)

• Room service is at no extra cost.

• They are the biggest river cruise operator in the World, and now the biggest cruise fleet in the world with 110 ships in their fleet.

And these are all things I learnt today while having a nice stickybeak into their rooms! I’ll put a few pictures on my Facebook and Instagram here, so you can see the inside view I saw too.

Have you cruised with Viking on a river or ocean cruise? Tell me about it in the comments.

Leave a comment

We’re all here to make our Prime Time count. So if you’ve been dreaming about a cruise… maybe this is your sign.

Cheers, Bec

This week ASIC announced it has launched a review into financial advice firms and other companies connected to online super switching ads. If you’ve been on Facebook lately, you’ll know the ones I mean.

These are the ads telling you you’re losing money every day you don’t switch your super, ads suggesting your fund isn’t performing and ads nudging you to “check” or “review” your super which quickly becomes a conversation about switching.

I’ve been watching this build for months or even years. So I deliberately clicked one (as an experiment) to see how it worked and I saw it all in action.

To talk about this review of super switching financial advice and lead generation openly, I asked ASIC Commissioner Alan Kirkland to come on the show this week, just as this review has been launched.

We talk about what they’re seeing, how these online funnels work, what to watch out for, where harm has already occurred, and what consumers should do before handing over details or agreeing to a switch.

This episode isn’t anti-advice. It’s pro-careful decision making. So, if you’ve been wondering whether you should respond to one of those ads in your feed, listen first.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why those “you’re losing money every day” and “hurry up and switch” super ads are so persuasive and why urgency itself should make you slow down.

• What actually happens after you click: the Facebook ad, the form, the quick phone call, and the referral into an advice firm.

• Why ASIC has launched a review into advice firms using these lead-generation arrangements, especially where people may be encouraged to switch super unnecessarily.

• The real risk: being moved out of a solid, mainstream super fund into something more complex, higher risk, or carrying higher fees.

• The hard backdrop to this conversation – the Shield and First Guardian collapses and how switching funnels formed part of that pathway.

• Why switching super is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, particularly in your 50s and 60s.

• The simplest protection available to you: pause. You can hang up. You can ask for time. You don’t have to decide on the spot.

• Why “licensed” doesn’t automatically mean the advice is right for you — and how conflicts and fees sit inside these arrangements.

• What I noticed when I went through one of these funnels myself.

• What ASIC can actually do when firms breach the law.

From Bec’s Desk

I made the decision to push back this week’s scheduled episode so we could bring you this conversation instead.

When ASIC announced it was deepening a review into advice firms connected to online super switching ads, I knew we needed to talk about it now and not in a few weeks’ time.

This is important and timely. And it deserves proper discussion.

I also want to say this clearly: most good advisers and most super funds don’t like this any more than consumers do. No one benefits when bad actors damage trust in the system. The majority of people working in advice and super care deeply about doing the right thing. Good ones are transparent, open and ethical in their behaviours.

But when something starts to feel systemic, when the ads are everywhere and the pressure is building – it’s time to shine a light on it.

That’s why this episode went to the front of the queue.

This week I’m on the road in Melbourne - and still trying to fit my workouts in between meetings and podcasting. I have to say, I’m not doing real well on the protein counts or the weights sessions this week. But I’ll make up for it with a clean-eating and good-exercising weekend!

I hope you’re doing better than me, I’m off for a Friday afternoon workout to make up for it. Have a great weekend.

And, tell me …

Pop a comment in, if you’ve seen switching or baiting social media ads and have some of your own views to share.

Leave a comment

And have a great weekend.
Cheers, Bec Xx

Is cognitive decline inevitable as we age, or is there actually something we can do about it?

That’s the question I wanted to explore in this week’s episode of Prime Time. Dementia and memory loss sit right at the top of the fear list for people over 50, and yet so much of what we hear is either alarmist or hopeless.

So I invited one of the world’s leading experts to the show.

I’m joined by Professor Henry Brodaty - 2026 Senior Australian of the Year, Professor of Ageing and Mental Health at UNSW Sydney, and Co-Director of the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing. Henry has spent decades researching dementia, cognitive decline and, most importantly, what actually helps protect our brains as we age.

We discuss what’s within our control, what really matters for brain health, and why it’s never too early to start looking after your mind.

You can find out more about Henry’s work here.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Cognitive decline isn’t inevitable: Henry explains why dementia risk increases with age, but also why a large proportion of risk is modifiable, meaning there are real actions we can take to delay or reduce cognitive decline.

• Up to 45% of dementia risk is linked to lifestyle factors: We unpack the biggest contributors to brain health, including blood pressure, physical activity, education, mental stimulation, hearing loss, social connection and depression.

• What’s good for your heart is good for your brain: Managing cardiovascular health isn’t just about preventing heart disease, it’s foundational for protecting cognitive function too.

• Why hearing loss matters more than most people realise: Henry shares why untreated hearing loss significantly increases dementia risk, and how hearing aids can actually reduce that risk by keeping the brain engaged and socially connected.

• Exercise, strength and movement really matter: We talk about why regular physical activity, including strength training, not just walking, plays a critical role in maintaining brain health as we age.

• It’s never too early — and never too late: Whether you’re in your 40s, 60s or even later, Henry explains why starting now still makes a difference, and why earlier action simply compounds the benefits.

• Three non-negotiables for brain health: Henry shares the daily habits he believes matter most and why trying to do everything isn’t the goal. The key is choosing what’s most relevant for you and doing it consistently.

• A hopeful message for the future: We talk about how delaying dementia onset, even by a single year, could dramatically reduce the number of people affected, and why there is far more light ahead than most people realise.

Last week, we opened up the conversation about retirement fears. After asking the Epic Retirement Club community to name what they were most afraid of, the answers came in fast.

In part one, we tackled the first three fears: running out of money, running out of time and health, and the loss of identity. This week, we’re back with part two to explore three more fears that came through loud and clear:

• The fear of spending money after a lifetime of saving,

• The fear of the rules changing,

• And the quiet, creeping fear of ending up alone.

Once again, we’ll talk through why these fears are so common and how each one could be managed with practical advice.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Creating a ‘pay yourself’ structure can help. Many have internalised the belief that saving equals success, while spending feels indulgent or risky, especially when it involves drawing down from super. Setting up a regular transfer from super to a spending account can reintroduce structure and make spending feel safe, not reckless.

• Guardrails, not guesswork. A simple system to review your drawdown rate annually can help build confidence and adjust your retirement spending plan to suit market shifts and personal needs.

• You can’t control future policies, but you can build resilience. That includes keeping buffers in your plan, reviewing your risk exposure, and staying adaptable rather than expecting certainty.

• Retirement isn’t just financial, it’s social. The fear of being alone, particularly after losing a partner or leaving the workforce, is often under-acknowledged, and so building habits of regular contact, like weekly clubs or scheduled outings, creates the kind of structure work once provided.

• Don’t wait until loneliness sets in to act. Investing in relationships, activities, and routines now can protect your wellbeing, emotionally and cognitively, in the years to come.

From Bec’s Desk

What a buzz to hear Dr Henry Brodaty, our Senior Australian of the Year, tell his story in his own words. And what an inspiration he is. The sheer scale of what he’s built, the funding he’s secured, the programs and organisations he’s created… all focused on helping us age better. It’s purposeful work at the highest level.

I have to say, it’s been quietly motivating hearing his story.

Off the back of that conversation, I’ve been doubling down on my own health reset. Or let’s be honest, a complete overhaul of my regime and rhythms so my 80 year old self is proud of me at 50. And I’m starting to feel it with more strength, proper abs, stronger legs and a general sense of wellbeing that’s hard to describe but very real.

What I’m most pleased about? I’m making it work around travel. Instead of letting flights and airports derail me, I’m squeezing sessions in at odd times if I know I’m heading away. Even the protein mission is holding up. It’s not always glamorous when the airport menu is wall-to-wall sandwiches and bread rolls, but I’m finding a way. Salads plus protein and yoghurt have become my new go-tos. Everything feels fresher, cleaner and stronger. This is a marathon not a sprint - so if you’re with me smile, we got years of this!

Now, I’m curious… For our Prime Time listeners, I would like to know if you would you be interested in taking a Prime Time education program focused on money, work, health and happiness?

And here’s the bigger question: could you get your workplace to pay for it as part of professional development or wellbeing?

We’d genuinely love your thoughts. Hit reply and tell us what you think too.

Now, back to it, only two more day’s til Saturday! Happy listening

Cheers, Bec

When I asked our Epic Retirement Club community what they feared most about retirement, the responses came flooding in.

Running out of money.
Dying at my desk.
Losing my identity.
Not knowing how to spend my time.
Being alone.
Does any of this sound familiar?

It struck me how consistent these concerns were. These aren’t irrational fears - they’re smart, thoughtful people trying not to mess up the second half of their lives.

So, this week on Prime Time, I’m doing something a little different. I’ve sat down with our program producer, Gen, to name the six fears that came up again and again. We unpack the first three in today’s episode: running out of money, running out of time and health, and loss of identity.

We talk through why these fears are so common and how each one could be managed - not eliminated - because we can’t just chase them away.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• You’re asking the right question but answering it the wrong way: When people worry about running out of money, they go straight to chasing a “magic number.” But retirement risk is less about the size of your balance, and more about the relationship between your spending and your income over time.

• There’s no magic number: Knowing how long your money will last doesn’t guarantee safety. Retirement is a long game, and flexibility matters more than rigid rules.

• Time and health: the real non-renewables: After money, the next biggest fear was running out of time and good health. You can rebuild wealth but not lost years. When health declines, your choices narrow quickly.

• Retirement isn’t one long phase: It’s a series of chapters, and your body, energy and capacity will change across each. Recognising this helps you prioritise the “go years”, and pace your experiences accordingly.

• Be honest about what’s time sensitive: You don’t need to do everything at once, but you do need to name the experiences that matter most, and when they make the biggest impact.

• Structure is gone — now what? After decades of progress, feedback, and learning, stepping out of a work identity can feel disorienting. That’s why retirement needs structure, too.

• You need more than hobbies: Hobbies are great, but what we really need are epic pursuits: things that stretch you, involve progression, and let you keep learning and growing.

• Feeling unsettled is normal: If purpose doesn’t arrive on day one of retirement, that’s okay. It’s a transition, not a snap. Purpose builds slowly, and it’s different for everyone.

From Bec’s Desk

I’m late with the newsletter today. But I have a good excuse. I’m prioritising my exercise. I completely forgot to finish the newsletter in my haste to fit in my new years health program both last night and this morning. I’m going to be talking about it more rather than being discreet with it. Each day, if I can manage, or at least 5 days a week I’m doing some weights. Heavy weights. I’ve bought myself a couple of good quality sets of heavy dumbells and I’ve been working with ChatGPT (I’ve named mine Polly) to build me a solid set of exercises I can do each day that never get boring (or they haven’t yet). I am doing a bit of high intensity cardio too. Think bursts of uphill walking on a treadmill, cycling… whatever I can manage. And… I’ve done it. I bought a weighted vest. Polly is also watching my nutrition, counting my macros and suggesting meal ideas that will keep me on track. I’m impressed. So, are you with me? I’m committed for the long haul. Drop me a comment so I know you’re interested, or finding your own health path in your fifties and beyond.

Leave a comment

Now for some news. We’ve left the 25% off earlybird deal for the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course open til the end of lunchtime today so if you’re still keen - get moving now. Our biggest ever cohort kicks off on the 19th February. I’m excited! Get a wiggle on. I want you to get the best deal available but after lunch, it needs to turn off. GET THAT DEAL

I hope you enjoy today’s show. I’m going to do more shows where I share what I know, as well as shows with guests. Watch out next week for part-two.

And, we’re kicking off a book club too… keep an eye out for episodes. And make sure you have the show set to download on your podcast app.

The first book we’re reading together for the bookclub is “The Art of Spending Money” by Morgan Housel. I’m really enjoying it. It’s our February read. The show talking about the book will be later in the month. Send in your thoughts, lessons and learnings.

And don’t forget to tell me the topics you want me to cover. Just reply to this email and I’ll get it!

Cheers, Bec

Today’s guest is someone who’s not just talking about midlife transformation - she’s living it.

Sue West is a leadership and transition coach who helps people navigate change in work and life, especially in the second half of life. But what I love most about Sue is her own story; how she’s built her coaching business Flourish After Fifty, and redefined what success, purpose and energy mean for her, at this stage of life.

In this episode, we talk about what happens when you stop chasing the version of success you were sold in your 30s and 40s… and start creating one that actually fits who you are now.

We talk about letting go, finding your voice, the emotional rollercoaster of transition and why the “messy middle” is where the real work begins. If you’ve ever asked yourself “what’s next for me?” and felt unsure how to answer… this one’s for you.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Rewriting the script after 50: Sue opens up about the big personal and professional changes that reshaped her life in her 50s - from the end of a marriage to walking away from a successful corporate career. She shares what it was like to let go of old structures and create space for something new.

• Redefining success: Sue talks about the moment she realised the version of success she was chasing no longer fit, and how she began to rebuild a life that felt more meaningful, energising and aligned.

• Letting go of old identities: From being the one holding everything together to creating space for her own growth, Sue reflects on the emotional work of stepping away from long-held roles, and discovering who she is outside of them.

• Change vs transition: We break down the difference between change (external events) and transition (the internal process), and explore the three phases Sue works through with her clients: endings, the messy middle, and new beginnings.

• The power of purpose and voice: Sue shares how working with women in midlife has shown her that purpose doesn’t need to be a grand mission. Sometimes, it starts with being heard, being visible, and giving yourself permission to want more.

• Practical ways to start again: We talk about what to do if you feel stuck, including why you don’t have to “burn it all down” to make a meaningful change, and how to start where you are with small, intentional steps.

• Creating more space for what you want: One of the most powerful reframes in this episode: that wanting something more for yourself isn’t self-indulgent. It’s a natural part of midlife reinvention, and it starts by reconnecting with your own voice and values.

From Bec’s Desk

Another week of 2026 has just flown by. Hard to believe we’re almost 1/12th down already! I’m back on solid hot Aussie soil and straight into things. We’re planning our topics for the Prime Time podcast for the year ahead and would love your ideas and inspiration. If there’s a topic you want covered - hit reply and send me a message!

And, if you’ve got a real-life-Prime-Time experience or story you think would make a great show - pitch it to me. (No product or service pitches please just legit real life interesting Prime TIme stories).

Now, lastly, and importantly, the earlybird spots on the Epic Retirement Course sold out this week. We’ve just added some extra places but only a few - so get your booking in quick if you want the 25% off. More here. It kicks off on the 19th Feb!

So tootlepip! I can’t wait to read your ideas!

Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026: Begins 19 Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal has been extended as we’ve already filled the first 200 places! Grab one of the extra spots fast! Get that deal or learn more here.

This week on Prime Time, I’m joined by Drew Meredith, Director and financial adviser at Wattle Partners, and one of the clearest wealth thinkers in the country, to unpack the revised Division 296 Super Tax and what it means in real life.

There’s been a lot of confusion (and noise) since the changes were announced, but the dust is starting to settle and it’s time to understand what this new tax actually means, who it impacts, and how to think about your super if you’re edging close to those thresholds.

Drew and I break down how the new tax works, the differences between balances over $3 million and $10 million, the role of indexation, and what kinds of planning conversations are already starting, especially for people in SMSFs.

If you’ve seen this topic floating around and haven’t quite wrapped your head around it yet, this is a great place to start.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• What the revised Division 296 tax actually does (and doesn’t do): Drew walks through how the updated rules work, including the $3 million threshold and the new additional tier above $10 million, and why this is a tax on earnings above the cap, not a tax on your entire super balance.

• Who will actually be affected - and how small that group really is: Based on current data, around 80,000 people (roughly 0.5% of Australians with super) are expected to be impacted, with fewer than 20,000 people holding balances above $10 million. We talk about why this matters and why most people don’t need to panic.

• Why SMSFs will feel this first (and hardest): Drew explains where the real complexity sits: calculating the proportion of a fund above $3M or $10M at 30 June each year. This is likely to increase administration and accounting costs for SMSFs, which tend to hold larger balances, while members in industry and retail funds may see far less friction.

• Execution is the real challenge - not the tax itself: The complexity isn’t about paying more tax; it’s about how earnings are calculated, reported and attributed. We unpack why this will mean more calculations, more professional involvement, and higher costs for some structures.

• Should people be ‘doing something’ about this now? For most people, the answer is no. Drew is very clear: even with Division 296, super remains the most tax‑effective place to invest for retirement.

• Who you should actually be speaking to if you’re impacted: If you are nearing these thresholds, Drew explains why you’ll likely need both a financial adviser and an SMSF‑literate accountant, and why retirement specialists are often best placed to navigate this space.

• The biggest misunderstanding Drew wants cleared up: Super is still designed to fund retirement, and good advice, structure and long‑term thinking matter far more than reacting to a policy change.

From Bec’s Desk

I’m still in London as this episode lands, having lots of interesting conversations about how different countries support and tax retirement savings and what that says about what governments value. Which makes this week’s topic feel very timely.

How the wealthier end of the super system will be taxed from next year is one of those issues that doesn’t affect everyone, but it does matter if you’ve done well, plan to do well, or just like understanding the rules of the game you’re playing. Division 296 has generated plenty of noise, but many want it explained simply, without jargon, which is exactly why I wanted to bring Drew back on the show.

This is a smart, calm, grown-up conversation about what’s actually changing, who it really affects, and why super is still an incredibly powerful vehicle for retirement savings. And yes, if you find yourself deep in a barbeque debate about “the $3 million tax”, you’ll be very glad you listened.

Have a great week! I’m looking forward to being home very soon… missing the warm weather

Bec Xx

PS… The earlybird spots on the Epic Retirement Course sold out this week. We’ve just added some extra places but only a few - so get your booking in quick if you want the 25% off. More here.

Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026: Begins 19 Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal has been extended as we’ve already filled the first 200 places! Grab one of the extra spots fast! Get that deal or learn more here.

When we think about retirement planning, super often steals the spotlight. But for the majority of Australians, the age pension remains the backbone of their retirement income, and planning with it in mind can make a meaningful difference.

So, this week on Prime Time, I’ve invited Justin Bott, Community Information Officer from Services Australia, back on the show to help us unpack the role the pension really plays in building a sustainable retirement plan, and how you can get ahead of planning with it in mind.

From clever (and legal) asset strategies to common mistakes people make when applying and how things like offset accounts and family gifts might affect your eligibility, this episode is full of practical tips that can help you plan smarter and make more informed decisions.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why understanding the Age Pension is foundational: I ask Justin why getting your head around the pension early is so important.

• The real purpose of the Age Pension: Justin walks through what the pension is actually designed to do: act as a safety net through the income and assets tests and guarantee a baseline income for anyone who meets the eligibility rules.

• How the pension, super and your home are meant to work together: We unpack how the system is designed as an integrated whole - not separate silos - and why understanding how these pieces interact leads to more sustainable retirement planning.

• Making super and the pension work together: Justin explains how small changes in super balances and spending can affect pension eligibility and why planning for both together is far more powerful than focusing on one alone.

• The mortgage offset trap most people don’t realise: One of the biggest eye-openers: why money in a mortgage offset account is still assessed as an asset by Services Australia, and how that can unexpectedly block pension eligibility.

• Gifting- what people get wrong: We dig into gifting rules, the five-year look-back, and why giving money away just to “get the pension” can seriously undermine your long-term retirement security.

• The danger of making the pension the goal: This is a big one. Justin explains the risk of designing your whole plan around getting the pension quickly - instead of building a retirement lifestyle that lasts decades.

• Why concession cards matter (even more than people realise): We talk about the real value of concession cards - from healthcare to everyday savings - and why they’re worth understanding in their own right.

• The best way to get ahead of pension planning: For anyone not yet retired, Justin shares where to go, who to talk to, and how the Financial Information Service can help you plan without tripping up later.

From Bec’s Desk

Happy, happy New Year. I hope you’ve had a brilliant break. I certainly have.

I’m officially back at work, but for the next couple of weeks I’m working out of London as we launch The Epic Retirement Institute in the UK. Now, that’s probably irrelevant to most Aussies listening because this is an Aussie show and that’s not changing. But I know you’re with me in spirit as we keep trying to help people navigate modern retirement, wherever they live.

We’ve also welcomed a new UK Lead to the team this week, Charlotte Gibson, which is very exciting. It means I can spend sensible amounts of time on planes instead of living on them. I am in my Prime Time after all, and I quite like having a good, normal life in Australia. You’ll get to know Charlotte if you follow my socials. She’s a seriously smart retirement leader in the UK and absolutely knows her stuff. I’m thrilled to have her on board.

Today’s podcast is a cracker.

We had Justin on the show last year and you loved him, so we’ve brought him back for more. If you missed his last episode, it was a little different and very practical. It was called “What do I actually need to know about the Age Pension?” Listen here.

Now - if this retirement stuff is really lighting you up, you might enjoy our How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course. You can download a brochure and learn all about the upcoming course that kicks off on the 19th Feb here.

And lastly - got a question? - reply to this email and ask me. You might help us find a great topic for the show or a social reel. And, know I love to hear from you.

Cheers, Bec

Earlybird sale ends soon: Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal is now on, for the first 200 students to book. Get that deal or learn more here.

As we start the new year, time is a time when so many of us want to reset our health, get stronger, feel clearer, lose weight, and maybe sleep a bit better. I want all of it. Do you? But here’s the thing that almost no one says out loud: if you’re a woman in your 40s, 50s, or early 60s, every part of your health is being shaped by perimenopause or menopause - even if you haven’t recognised the signs or don’t want to talk about it.

That’s why I wanted to start the year with someone who can speak honestly, practically and compassionately about what’s really going on in women’s bodies at this age, and how we can bring her wisdom into our health plans for 2026.

In this episode of Prime Time, I’m joined by someone I’ve long admired: Michelle Bridges - bestselling author, coach, and one of Australia’s most well-known and trusted health communicators. Michelle has coached thousands of women and has just released a new book, ‘The Perimenopause Method: The only menopause guide you’ll ever need’. It’s a brilliant, practical guide to understanding your changing body and working with it, not against it.

You can find Michelle’s latest book at all book retailers.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why women need a new health approach in midlife: Michelle shares why standard fitness advice often fails women in their 40s and 50s, and what’s really going on in our bodies during perimenopause and menopause.

• Your strongest years are ahead: Muscle mass is critical for healthy ageing and Michelle explains why building strength (not just losing weight) is the key to vitality, energy and longevity.

• A kind approach to exercise: Michelle talks about ditching punishment-based fitness and learning to move your body in ways that are sustainable, joyful and effective.

• The power of structure and habit: From small tweaks to weekly routines, Michelle explains how to create a fitness plan that actually sticks, even when life gets busy or motivation drops.

• Her own perimenopause journey: Michelle gets candid about her own experience navigating hormonal change, including the symptoms that caught her by surprise and what’s helped her most.

• Why now is the time: Whether you’re at the start of your health reset or feeling like you’ve let things slide, Michelle reminds us that it’s never too late - and you don’t need to do it all at once.

From Bec’s Desk

One of the themes I keep coming back to in Prime Time is that good health in the second half of life is not about doing more, it’s about doing things differently. It’s about learning how your body works now, not how it worked ten or twenty years ago, and building confidence in responding to that.

As we head into a new year, my hope for women reading this is that health becomes a priority without becoming another source of pressure. Strength, energy, mobility, and long-term health are not vanity goals. They are the foundations that allow us to enjoy our lives, our work, our families, and our independence.

If you’re feeling curious, cautious, or quietly relieved to hear menopause talked about openly and practically, you’re not alone. These conversations matter, and they belong front and centre in Prime Time.

Thanks for being here. I’m really glad we get to keep having these conversations together.

Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal is now on, for the first 200 students to book. Get that deal or learn more here.

Happy New Year, Prime Timers, and welcome to our first episode of 2026!

We’re kicking off the year by peering into the economic crystal ball with one of our favourite returning guests: Malcolm Wood, Head of Institutional Research and Asset Allocation at Ord Minnett. We unpack what 2025 taught us, what might lie ahead in 2026, and how investors should be thinking about markets right now.

From the lingering effects of a second Trump presidency and the AI boom, to sticky inflation, interest rates, and China’s structural challenges, Malcom helps us cut through the noise with calm, clear and candid insights. He also lays out the global and local sectors to watch this year, what’s fuelling the high valuations we’re seeing, and where more defensive opportunities may lie.

If you’ve been wondering where things are headed, and how to position yourself wisely in what could be a bumpy year ahead, this one’s for you.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• Why 2026 could be bumpy: We talk about the lag effects of interest rate rises, and why the real economic impact might still be coming, especially for retirees and pre-retirees watching their spending power.

• Confidence in retirement planning: We discuss why volatile markets shouldn’t spook long-term investors, and how to plan your drawdowns with a clear investment strategy.

• What’s driving market performance: Malcolm breaks down what’s been propping up markets (hello, tech stocks), and the risks if broader fundamentals don’t hold.

• International risks to watch: From China’s property slowdown to global inflation shifts, we explore the international trends that could shape markets in the year ahead.

• Making sense of media headlines: We talk about staying informed without becoming overwhelmed, and how to filter out financial noise that doesn’t serve your long-term plan.

• Planning through uncertainty: Why the right advice and a clear plan matter more than ever when the economy gets tricky. Understanding that having confidence comes from knowing your plan is built to weather the bumps.

From Bec’s Desk

A new year always brings a strange mix of hope and unease. But my word for this year is confidence, and I hope you might want to borrow it too.

Confidence to learn and to try, and to have a go. Confidence to shape the life that comes next, and confidence to say no as well as yes.

Not loud confidence or bravado, just the steady kind that comes from being informed, thoughtful, and willing to keep adjusting as you go.

My hope for you this year is not certainty, it’s confidence. Confidence to make good choices without needing perfect information, confidence to adapt when things shift, and confidence to enjoy your Prime Time without being constantly hijacked by the noise.

Thanks for being here. I’m really glad we get to start another year together. And I’m thrilled we all get to start it with Malcolm Wood. Enjoy! And Happy New Year.

Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal is now on, for the first 200 students to book. Get that deal or learn more here.

Happy Boxing Day, Prime Timers! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas Day.

Today, I’m doing something a little bit different. I’ve tipped out the mailbag - all the emails you’ve sent me over the past few weeks - and picked out the questions, confessions, frustrations and life stories that so many of you have shared.

And let me tell you: Aussies in their Prime Time are dealing with a lot! From super jargon and confusing financial advice, to housing dilemmas, adult kids moving out (and back in... and out again), and the complex realities of solo ageing. And then there are the beautiful, honest stories of people easing themselves into retirement in their own unique ways.

So grab the leftovers and settle in - let’s unpack the Boxing Day Mailbag together.

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:

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Highlights of the conversation:

• The confusion is real: From super jargon to clunky advice experiences, I unpack the financial head-scratchers many of you wrote in about and how to make sense of it all.

• Housing, adult kids, and everything in between: Whether you’re navigating downsizing, supporting adult children (again), or rethinking your living setup, you’re not alone - these were some of the most common stories in the mailbag.

• What to do if advice feels off: If you’ve walked out of a financial advice meeting feeling confused, sold to, or just plain deflated… you’re not alone. I unpack some of the red flags, and how to ask for help that’s actually aligned with your goals.

• A letter from Neville: a textbook transition. This one is gold. Downsizing, sabbaticals, lawn bowls and Friday lunches. It’s the kind of story that shows what a joyful, thoughtful slide into retirement can really look like.

• Solo ageing isn’t rare - and it’s not bleak: I talk about how solo retirement is becoming more common, and the practical ways to make sure it’s filled with support, connection and confidence.

• You’re asking the right questions: At the heart of every letter was one clear theme: people want to feel informed, in control and supported. I share why that was the whole point of Epic Retirement Month and what’s coming next.

From Bec’s Desk

Happy Boxing Day!
If you’re reading this with your feet up, leftovers in the fridge, a slightly messy kitchen, and that delicious ‘do we even know what day it is?’ feeling, then you’re winning.

Today’s episode is a special one: it’s a Prime Time mailbag. I’m sharing a handful of the best letters and questions you’ve sent in recently. The honest ones, the practical ones, the ‘is anyone else dealing with this?’ ones.

We talk about the real stuff: money, work, identity shifts, family dynamics, solo decisions, and that slightly weird stretch between Christmas and New Year when you’re meant to be relaxing… but your brain is quietly doing a stocktake of your life.

If you’re in the mood for something thoughtful, useful, and comforting (without being heavy), hit play. And if you’ve got a question you’d love me to tackle in a future mailbag, just reply to this email. I read every single one.

Enjoy those precious days with loved ones - and the holidays!

Bec Xx

Book your place on the How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course for Feb 2026

The next How to Have an Epic Retirement flagship course begins 19th February 2026. It’s a practical, Australia-first program designed for people in their 50s and 60s who want to understand how to navigate retirement (the easy way). And we all do the program together (we call it a synchronous program).

The earlybird 25% off deal is now on, for the first 200 students to book. Get that deal or learn more here.