Freelance or Fraud - Is this the ultimate self employment catfish? episode artwork

EPISODE · May 1, 2025 · 44 MIN

Freelance or Fraud - Is this the ultimate self employment catfish?

from Australian Business Podcast · host Rask

In this episode of The Australian Business Podcast, host Gemma Mitchell is joined by Zara McGuffie from The Australian Business Podcast to tackle a question on many Australians’ minds: how do you bring in more income? This episode was originally featured on The Australian Finance Podcast. One business model that seems to be on the rise (again) is multi-level marketing, also known as network marketing or direct marketing.  They promise freedom, flexibility, and uncapped income from your phone. But is it really about building your business – or just building theirs? We dig into the world of MLMs and so-called ‘business opportunities’ that sell the dream of self-employment, but often leave people out of pocket and pressured. We unpack: • Why MLMs are so appealing (and who they target) • What makes them feel legitimate – even when they’re not • The real cost of chasing passive income promises • What to look for – and how to approach opportunities with eyes wide open • Other income streams that might actually suit you better • How to increase your income using your existing skills • How to tell the difference between a genuine side hustle and a self-employment catfish If you’ve ever been tempted to ‘be your own boss’ and start something new – this is a must-listen. Resources for this episode Pre order Gemma's book here The Money Reset: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life : Mitchell, Gemma: Amazon.com.au: Books Ask a question (select the Finance podcast): https://bit.ly/R-quest  ~~ Show partner resources ~~ Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit: https://bit.ly/Pearler Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith: https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds:  https://bit.ly/beta-25 ~~ Rask resources ~~ All services: https://bit.ly/R-services Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-plan  Invest with us: https://bit.ly/R-invest  Access Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notes  Ask a question: https://bit.ly/R-quest  DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Australian Business Podcast, host Gemma Mitchell is joined by Zara McGuffie from The Australian Business Podcast to tackle a question on many Australians’ minds: how do you bring in more income? This episode was originally featured on The Australian Finance Podcast. One business model that seems to be on the rise (again) is multi-level marketing, also known as network marketing or direct marketing.  They promise freedom, flexibility, and uncapped income from your phone. But is it really about building your business – or just building theirs? We dig into the world of MLMs and so-called ‘business opportunities’ that sell the dream of self-employment, but often leave people out of pocket and pressured. We unpack: • Why MLMs are so appealing (and who they target) • What makes them feel legitimate – even when they’re not • The real cost of chasing passive income promises • What to look for – and how to approach opportunities with eyes wide open • Other income streams that might actually suit you better • How to increase your income using your existing skills • How to tell the difference between a genuine side hustle and a self-employment catfish If you’ve ever been tempted to ‘be your own boss’ and start something new – this is a must-listen. Resources for this episode Pre order Gemma's book here The Money Reset: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life : Mitchell, Gemma: Amazon.com.au: Books Ask a question (select the Finance podcast): https://bit.ly/R-quest  ~~ Show partner resources ~~ Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit: https://bit.ly/Pearler Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith: https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds:  https://bit.ly/beta-25 ~~ Rask resources ~~ All services: https://bit.ly/R-services Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-plan  Invest with us: https://bit.ly/R-invest  Access Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notes  Ask a question: https://bit.ly/R-quest  DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Freelance or Fraud - Is this the ultimate self employment catfish?

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This episode was published on May 1, 2025.

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In this episode of The Australian Business Podcast, host Gemma Mitchell is joined by Zara McGuffie from The Australian Business Podcast to tackle a question on many Australians’ minds: how do you bring in more income? This episode was originally...

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