The Pay Off with Sylvia Jeffreys

Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks has built her career around a question: who gets heard — and who gets a seat at the table? After working inside Parliament House, she founded Missing Perspectives to give young women a bigger voice in media. What started as a Squarespace blog has grown into a global media platform, backed by major brands and amplified by the likes of Reese Witherspoon.  Now, her new book The Right Hand takes her inside another world of influence: the chiefs of staff behind some of the world’s most powerful leaders.In this episode, Phoebe talks about: Why working in Canberra changed the way she thought about power and representation How a cold LinkedIn message helped launch Missing Perspectives Why she turned down early investment — and later quit her job to go all-in What traditional media gets wrong about reaching younger audiences What the people closest to Tony Blair, Jacinda Ardern and Justin Trudeau revealed about leadership behind closed doors The surprising role empathy, trust and difficult conversations play at the highest levels of power Why sometimes the hardest part of building something is simply getting started See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sundae Body sells a product every six seconds and is stocked in more than 10,000 stores across 14 countries. But behind the rapid growth of the colourful Australian beauty brand are some costly mistakes and hard-earned business lessons. Lizzie Binks went from working in a call centre and receiving a school score of 59 to building one of Australia’s fastest-growing beauty brands.  The Sundae Body co-founder joins The Pay Off to explain how Sundae went from an idea to shake up the body care aisle to an international success story — and the decisions that almost derailed it along the way. Binks reveals how she launched into Woolworths and Priceline without a finished product, why the business took eight months to gain momentum and how a six-month cash-flow gap nearly broke the company. She also shares what happened when Walmart approached her at a New York trade show, why Sundae eventually lost its US shelf space and how the mistake helped the brand succeed at Target. Sundae Body is preparing for its next major step: A 36-product launch into Sephora in the Middle East.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar started Atlassian as two university friends with $10,000 in credit card debt. They went on to build a global software giant worth more than $100 billion — and become two of Australia’s richest people. But behind the extraordinary success, their friendship was beginning to fracture. Tech Bros authors and senior business journalists John Stensholt and Perry Williams join Sylvia Jeffreys to reveal what they uncovered about the relationship behind one of Australia’s greatest business success stories — from tensions inside Atlassian and a reported year in which the founders barely spoke, to a multimillion-dollar renovation dispute between their neighbouring Point Piper mansions. In this episode: How Cannon-Brookes and Farquhar built Atlassian from almost nothing The Point Piper property dispute that exposed cracks in their friendship What happened when tensions spilled into the workplace and why Farquhar ultimately stepped down as co-CEO How Atlassian’s culture changed as the company grew The impact of AI and 1,600 job cuts on Atlassian’s future What their story teaches us about friendship, ambition and knowing when to walk away See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Interest rates remain at 4.35%, house prices are falling across much of Australia, and households are still feeling the cost-of-living squeeze. So, what happens next? Westpac Chief Economist and former Reserve Bank Assistant Governor Luci Ellis joins Sylvia Jeffreys to unpack the RBA’s latest decision, what it means for mortgage holders and why Australia’s housing downturn isn’t necessarily a crash. They examine what’s keeping inflation elevated, whether government spending is part of the problem, the complicated relationship between migration and housing affordability, and why Australia needs more skilled workers to build the homes and infrastructure we need. In this episode: What the RBA's latest decision means for interest rates Why falling house prices don't necessarily mean a housing crash Whether migration is really to blame for housing unaffordability When interest rates could begin falling Whether government spending and data centres are adding to inflationary pressure Why Australia needs more skilled tradies How women and older Australians are reshaping the workforce Whether AI will destroy jobs — or create new ones Subscribe for more conversations about money, property and the decisions shaping your financial future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if technology could help us become better voters? Climate advocate, former elite long jumper and Build a Ballot co-founder Lizzie Hedding is trying to do exactly that. Her non-partisan voting platform attracted more than 600,000 users during the last federal election, helping Australians cut through political noise and make more informed decisions at the ballot box. In this episode of The Pay Off, Lizzie joins Sylvia Jeffreys to unpack the unlikely journey that took her from elite athletics to climate advocacy and, eventually, tech entrepreneurship. She reflects on how the Black Summer bushfires changed the course of her life, why she believes Australian democracy can work better, and what she learned building a political platform designed to remain fiercely neutral. They also discuss: Why younger Australians are engaging with politics differently Housing, cost of living and the rise of minor parties The challenge of remaining politically neutral in an increasingly polarised environment How social media has transformed political messaging Why Lizzie chose the not-for-profit path rather than trying to build the next tech unicorn See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to dedicate decades of your life to a dream that feels out of reach? In this episode of The Pay Off, Sylvia Jeffreys sits down with 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia’s first qualified astronaut, to explore what it really takes to pursue an extraordinary goal. From stargazing in her Sydney backyard to completing one of the world’s most demanding astronaut training programs, Katherine shares the mindset, resilience and curiosity that have shaped her remarkable career. She reveals what astronaut training is actually like, why humanity’s return to the Moon matters, and how space research is already improving life here on Earth. The conversation also explores Australia’s growing role in the global space industry, the country’s STEM skills challenge, and why Katherine believes inspiring the next generation—especially girls—to dream bigger has become one of her most important missions. She also shares an exclusive first look at Mission Sprouts, a new initiative bringing space-flown seeds into Australian classrooms. Whether you’re fascinated by space, navigating your own ambitious career goals, or simply wondering what’s possible when you commit to a lifelong dream, this episode will challenge the way you think about achieving the seemingly impossible. You’ll learn: What astronaut training is really like—and what it takes to qualify. Why the world is returning to the Moon, and Australia’s role in the next era of space exploration. How space research is leading to breakthroughs in medicine, technology and sustainability. Why curiosity, resilience and long-term thinking matter more than natural talent. How Katherine hopes to inspire more young Australians—especially girls—to pursue careers in science, technology and space. The story behind Mission Sprouts, bringing space-flown seeds into classrooms across Australia. Find out more about Mission Sprouts at www.space.gov.au. Applications close Sunday, August 23, 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starting a business is exciting. Building one that lasts is something else entirely. In this episode of The Pay Off, Sylvia Jeffreys is joined by Edible Blooms Co-founder and Managing Director Kelly Jamieson and Westpac Managing Director of Business Lending Tamara Bryden to unpack what it really takes to launch and grow a successful business. Kelly shares how she turned a kitchen-table idea into one of Australia’s best-known gifting businesses, while Tamara explains why women still receive just a fraction of startup funding—and what can be done to change it. Together, they discuss the realities of entrepreneurship: testing an idea before investing heavily, managing cash flow, securing finance, scaling beyond the “messy middle” and why building a business often means working harder than you’ve ever worked before. Whether you’re dreaming of leaving your corporate job, growing a side hustle or taking your business to the next level, this episode is packed with practical advice from two women who’ve helped thousands of businesses get off the ground. You’ll learn: Why women still face bigger barriers when raising capital How to test a business idea before investing thousands What banks actually want to see in a business plan The biggest cash flow mistakes new founders make How to scale beyond the “messy middle” of business growth Why your network can be as valuable as your funding The mindset shifts that separate successful entrepreneurs from everyone else Why “freedom” isn’t the best reason to start your own business See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun Bei Liu arrived in Australia from China at 16 with little English but big ambitions. Today, she's the co-founder of Ten Cap, one of Australia's top-performing hedge funds, and one of the country's most respected stock pickers. In this episode of The Pay Off, Sylvia Jeffreys sits down with Jun Bei to unpack where she's finding opportunities in today's market, why she's avoiding some of the biggest names in AI, and what every investor should understand before buying into the latest hype. From SpaceX's eye-watering valuation to the future of Australia's banks, Jun Bei shares the frameworks she uses to separate great businesses from great investments — and why the smartest money isn't always going where everyone else is. You'll learn: Why Jun Bei is backing the "picks and shovels" powering the AI boom, rather than trying to pick the winning platform. What the SpaceX IPO can teach everyday investors about hype, valuation and timing. Why volatility and uncertainty can create the best buying opportunities. The investing philosophy Jun Bei learnt from her father — and how she's now teaching it to her own children. Why understanding the business behind the brands you already use can make you a better investor. Whether you're investing for the first time or looking to sharpen your thinking in a rapidly changing market, this conversation is packed with practical insights that will change the way you look at money, markets and opportunity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It started with a drawer overflowing with sticky $5 and $10 tips, tucked away after gruelling 3am bar shifts while trying to survive university. That mountain of cash eventually triggered an unexpected bank investigation, a furious confrontation with her father and a lifelong obsession with building financial freedom for herself and others.  In this episode of The Pay Off, Sylvia Jeffreys sits down with financial planner, best-selling author, and founder of SugarMamma, Canna Campbell (@sugarmammatv).  From the ultimate $1,650 kitchen appliance hack that saves thousands a year, to surviving a massive relationship breakdown and using her professional expertise to grow a $374,000 portfolio from scratch, Canna shares her direct, no-nonsense playbook for creating long-term wealth. Whether you are staring down a 30-year mortgage, trying to navigate changing tax laws, or just wanting to look glamorous on a budget, this conversation is packed with practical strategies to help you make your money work harder. You’ll learn: The mindset shifts that helped Canna rebuild after divorce and create lasting financial resilience  The step-by-step "$1,000 Project" framework for building investment momentum with amounts you can actually afford. How to “pay your future self first” and use passive dividend income to build long-term financial security. Why regularly negotiating your mortgage could save you thousands by avoiding the bank’s “loyalty tax.”  And much more. Find more from Canna here: https://www.sugarmamma.tv/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It came in a midnight email, despite having just kicked some huge goals for her company, and just six weeks after returning from parental leave. Redundancy. Something that's being faced by people in their thousands right now. In this episode, Sylvia Jeffreys sits down with Natalie MacDonald. As a former business journalist and a founding member of the LinkedIn News Australia team, Natalie spent nearly a decade helping build the digital ecosystem that millions of professionals use every day. But when she faced a sudden redundancy while managing two small children and a tight family budget, she had to pivot fast—transforming a professional setback into a thriving portfolio career. Natalie shares her journey through career grief and how she bounced back, how you too can rebuild your career on your own terms, and how to leverage the tool so many of us know but so few of us have mastered: LinkedIn.  You will learn: The quick operational and financial steps you need to take right after losing a job. Why the cost of invisibility is greater than the cost of 'cringe' when promoting yourself online. Easy profile tweaks to boost your digital storefront, from writing warmer headlines to hitting the right weekly posting frequency. And much much more. Find more from Natalie here: https://www.workingatit.com.au/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your days of wondering where all your money went are over. In this empowering episode, full-time nurse turned anti-influencer Breana Davison (@breeonabudget) reveals how she broke free from a debilitating mountain of debt to buy her first home, a secure financial foundation and absolute control over her spending and lifestyle. In this episode: the reality of a life of intentional spending and minimalism - and why it's not about limiting yourself.  The five-step process for stopping impulse purchases in their tracks Bree's biggest budget breakers and her practical hacks for auditing them Why "paying your future self first" will completely transform your financial landscape And much more.  If you are ready to stop comparing yourself to the world, slash unintentional spending and design a life that aligns with your true values, this episode is your definitive action-plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's plenty of advice out there about fostering a social media, building a multi-million dollar business, or creating an utterly devoted community. Steph Claire Smith, founder of KIC, one of Australia's biggest wellness brands, has done all of these things. But her key is a little more simple than most: above all, keep it real. Not only that, this principle has also steered her through some of the most difficult parts of her life; such as her recovery from disordered eating, hashing out issues with her business partner best friend Laura, and the more recent trials of motherhood. In this episode, she opens up to Sylvia Jeffreys about all of the above, along with the origins of her work-life as as a model, how KIC grew from e-book to empire, her disconnect with the traditional corporate "businesswoman" archetype, the recent launch of KICstudio and more. Plus, keep listening to receive a Pay Off exclusive KIC offer code! This episode contains discussions of body image issues and disordered eating. For support, please contact the Butterfly Foundation at butterfly.org.au or 1800 ED HOPE(1800 33 4673)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you thought an EOFY sale was the biggest threat to your savings right now, this episode will make you think again. Ben Young, Head of Fraud and Scams Prevention at Westpac, pulls back the curtain on the scams he encounters - and fights - every day. From 'flavour of the month' tactics specifically designed for tax time, to emotion-triggering texts, the long cons of investment or romance scams, to the terrifying and uncanny new world of AI-powered deep fake scams - Ben breaks down how they all work, and our best defenses against them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian actress and comedian Mary Coustas - and her famous and fabulous alter-ego Effie - have been responsible for decades of laughter. But away from the stage and screen, she's faced struggles shared by millions of other women: a grueling 23-cycle IVF journey, navigating the profound grief of a stillbirth and symptoms of menopause that, surprisingly, were hardest to deal with of all. In this deeply moving, raw, and validating episode of The Pay Off, Mary opens up about all of these experiences, why every woman and every business needs to be menopause-informed, the origins of Effie and her career, and her new menopause focused health start-up Unpause - all in her trademark style of honesty, vulnerability and humour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being honest has done a lot for Talitha Cummins. It's allowed her to pivot her skills as a prominent television journo into becoming the founder and design director of Australian fine jewelry house The Cut. It's generated sales across the world with zero in paid marketing. It's ruffled the feathers of her competition. It's helped her heal from addiction and it's encouraged countless others to do the same.  In this raw and far-ranging chat, Talitha explains: The myths the diamond industry is based around and the truths they'd rather you didn't hear The true difference between lab grown and natural diamonds and other FAQs Her personal investment history and strategy Her advice for those who run their own business Her story of entering and maintaining sobriety - what it's meant for her and her message for others who are struggling  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is caught in a complicated, fast-moving financial landscape—what Westpac CEO Anthony Miller calls a "swirling economy." In this episode, Sylvia sits down with the leader of one of the nation’s Big Four banks for an unfiltered, data-backed assessment of the country's economic future. Anthony shares his candid perspective on the structural hurdles holding Australia back and the massive opportunities waiting to be unlocked, including: The Budget Verdict & Tax Changes: Why Anthony backs the productivity agenda but argues that Capital Gains Tax (CGT) adjustments need a strict carve-out for small businesses and startups. The $1M Housing Reality Check: The stark math behind Australia’s supply crisis— and how regional development and flexible work play a role. Interest Rates & Consumer Stress: Why Westpac is currently forecasting two more rate rises this year, and how Australian mortgage holders are holding up against the pressure. The Truth About AI & Unemployment: Why Anthony completely rejects the scary predictions of a 15% unemployment rate Skilled Migration & Nation Building: A look at why a precise, evidence-based immigration debate is vital  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the question that weighs upon every parent: where do I send my kids to school?But with yearly tuition fees for private schooling reaching truly staggering numbers, another question often follows: is it worth it? In this eye-opening episode, Skye Predavec, researcher behind the Australia Institute's recent report on private schooling unpacks the data and the stark structural realities of our school system, including: Does private schooling equate to better outcomes? How does Australia's school system compare to the other parts of the world? A look at how private fees consistently outpace inflation, and what it will realistically cost to educate a child born today within the private system Why current trends suggest most Australian high school students will be in private systems within a few decades, and what that means for societal inequality  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever wanted to ensure you're giving your kids the best possible financial start - imparting not just wealth, but the means for them to generate and handle their own wealth throughout their lives, this is the episode for you! Finance expert, mother of three and author of 'How to Raise Rich Kids' Sarah Megginson is here to share her expertise, including: What rich really means  Her top tips for pocket money How to involve your kids in family finances the right way Navigating dangers of frictionless payments and online influences Communicating concepts like saving and investing in a way kids can connect to See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Between the cost-of-living crisis, a brutal housing market, and the constant "doom-scrolling" of financial news, it’s easy to feel financially disheartened. But today’s guest has a different perspective. In this episode, Sylvia sits down with Scott Phillips, Chief Investment Officer at The Motley Fool Australia to explain why (and how) your long-term financial future could be brighter than you think. In this episode, we dive into: The Power of Simplicity: Why the financial industry thrives on making things look hard just to charge you more—and how Scott’s "One-Page Investing Plan" can change your life. The Housing Crisis & "Inherited Inequality": A candid look at the structural failures of the property market and why "inheritocracy" is creating a societal divide. Historical Resilience: How the Australian market has turned $10,000 into $130,000 over 30 years—despite wars, depressions, and recessions. The Future of Work and AI: Why we shouldn't fear the coming changes Connect with Scott Phillips: Look out for his upcoming book, The One Page Investing Plan, and find him across social media and on The Motley Fool Money podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sylvia Jeffreys and financial advisor Ben Nash continue dissecting the latest federal budget, exploring how the proposed property tax and CGT changes will affect young Australians. And if they become law, what are some other investment opportunities for younger Aussies to mull over?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you take the "blinkered" focus of an elite swimmer and apply it to the high-stakes world of stockbroking, fintech and entrepreneurship? The success of Luke Trickett, ex-competitive swimmer and founder of Marmalade and Blue Stamp Company, is the answer. Luke reveals why "satisfaction" is a foreign concept to him, the reality of transitioning from the pool to stockbroking during the GFC, what watching his world-champion wife Libby's own transition out of the pool taught him, and what it’s really like to build a business with 100% conviction while raising five children. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we sleepwalking into a national food crisis? A war in the Middle East, a global shipping bottleneck, blown-up fuel and LNG plants are contributing to a global fuel crisis. But beyond fuel, it's the effect on fertiliser supply that might shock Australians if the crisis isn't solved sometime soon. Farmer and social media star Charlie Blomfield joins Sylvia to talk about the massive geopolitical forces shifting the goalposts out in the bush. Plus, why the government’s latest headline-grabbing supply deals are just a "drop in the ocean".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On December 14 2025, an evening of Hanukkah celebration in Dover Heights rapidly became something very different for NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane. In this raw and deeply personal conversation, Kellie recounts the moments she jumped into a Hatzolah ambulance to race toward the danger of Bondi beach, arriving at the scene as the final shots were being fired. Kellie provides a visceral, first-hand account of acting as an impromptu first responder - and importantly how this experience, occurring less than three weeks into her tenure as Opposition Leader, has left her a "changed person" with a newfound "clarity of purpose".   Beyond the trauma of Bondi, she explores the journey that brought her to that moment: from a regional "country girl" to a high-stakes journalist and CEO, and finally, her transition into the political arena.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a generational overhaul of property taxes, family trusts, and negative gearing, the government has finally picked a side in the housing war.  Sylvia, Amy Remeikis, and Joel Gibson dig into who wins and who loses, why your rentvesting strategy just hit a wall, and if the broken promise of this budget will actually be forgiven at the ballot box.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next week, the federal budget drops. For most of us, it’s a flurry of headlines and jargon that feels a world away from our daily bank balance. But behind the billion-dollar figures are the decisions that dictate your rent, your grocery bills, and your job security. And luckily, to help us 'get it', there's Nine Finance Editor Chris Kohler. In this episode, Chris breaks down what might be the budgets biggest tickets - including capital gains tax, negative gearing, housing affordability, grandfathering, gas exports, unemployment and more. He also discusses some of the tools he's heard have been most helpful to people from his book 'How They Get You', including giving delivery apps a second thought and scheduling a 'hell day', and why he decided to start a podcast of his own: 'How We Got Here'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sylvia sits down with AMP Deputy Chief Economist Diana Mousina to analyze the RBA's latest rise and exactly what it means for your family budget.  In this episode: Exactly how much more the average new mortgage holder is looking at from recent hikes How rising petrol and diesel prices act like a "hidden" interest rate rise on top of the RBA’s decision The potential for costs to be passed on through increased rent Why core inflation is still sitting at 3.5%, a full 1% above the RBA’s goal.  What this could mean in combination with next week's federal budget Are more rises on the way? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can wiping away what you've been told about profiting lead to your business being flush with cash? Simon Griffiths, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Who Gives a Crap knows so. In fact, in this episode, he shares why giving away 50% of his company's profits not only led to multi-millions donated to the cause of global sanitation, but to a competitive market advantage and success that could not have otherwise been possible.  Simon shares all the highlights of the WGAC journey so far - from a the origins of the idea to the viral crowdfunding campaign that saw him sitting on a toilet for 50 hours straight to navigating the unprecedented "toilet paper panic" of 2020. You'll learn the secrets behind their iconic marketing strategy, how to build a brand so compelling that customers become your biggest advocates and ultimately why doing good is good for business.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you go from being the youngest on-air reporter in NBC history, to a fixture of every red carpet event in LA, to founding a fashion brand worn by Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, and Ariana Grande?In Kathryn Eisman's case: fearlessly.  In this episode, the powerhouse entrepreneur, author, and media personality shares her unfiltered journey of radical career pivots, from living in a caravan on a New York rooftop to landing a dream job at E! News just six weeks after giving birth and more. Now the founder of the cult hosiery label High Heel Jungle, Kathryn reveals the "unprecious" work ethic required to forge ahead in any career.  In this episode: The Power of the Pivot: Why you should never wait to be "discovered" and how to start before you’re ready. The Kardashian Effect: How Kathryn got her products into the hands of A-list celebrities with $0 ad spend and no PR firm - and just how powerful that was! Resilience & Legacy: How her family’s history shaped her drive and perspective on risk. The Handbag Secret: Kathryn’s "uncannily accurate" party trick—what your handbag says about your personality! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If the problem is sky high fuel costs, could an electric vehicle be the solution? It's the logical question being asked by more and more Australians. But are there hidden costs we don't know about? Are they actually cheaper to run than a standard petrol car? Is Australia's charging infrastructure good enough? And what are the best options right now? Sylvia chats to James Ward, director of content at Drive, to answer these questions and more, and to give you the entire checklist BEFORE you buy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you come up with a brilliant business idea simply from browsing online? How do you scale that business to reach hundreds of thousands of users? And how do you do it all with your best friend whilst keeping your relationship as strong as ever? Oh yeah, you can also throw in having a baby and being recognised by Forbes 30 under 30 too.  Two young women who have the answers to all of these questions and more are Alexis Aaron and Jodine Wolman, founders of SORTD, a tech startup that is revolutionising online shopping and ecommerce.   In this episode, they share their entrepreneurial journey so far, their must-hear advice to make social media marketing work for you, their keys to a successful pitch (even in a boardroom of blokes in suits) and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the high-stakes pressure of Silicon Valley’s dot-com boom to leading one of Australia's largest telecommunications giants through a national crisis, Kelly Bayer Rosmarin has navigated a career defined by massive shifts and "deep end" learning. In this insightful episode, the former Optus CEO joins Sylvia to discuss her new chapter as the head of Australian Unity and the hard-won lessons she’s gathered along the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How more Australians can enter into the property market - how they can have dignified, secure housing that delivers good capital growth - is the multi-million dollar question.And it's one that Evan Thornley might have an answer to. In this episode, the tech pioneer, founder of LongView and co-founder of GoodStart, argues that while the system is fundamentally broken, there is a data-driven path to home ownership that is easier to access and better long term than the traditional means of being indebted to a bank.  In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the family home remains the "single best investment in the history of the world" How analyzing 50 years of data across 11 million properties helps identify the specific types of homes that consistently outperform the market The potential held by shared equity and housing funds Evan's personal journey from a single-parent family to Silicon Valley success, why he’s now dedicated to fixing the housing ladder for the next generation and his own biggest lessons See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sylvia sits down with Alice Stoltz from Domain—often called the "walking encyclopedia" of Australian real estate—to cut through the headlines and give you the data-driven truth about what’s happening right now. If you’ve been feeling "handcuffed" by interest rates or worried about the "choppy" nature of recent auctions, this is for you. In this episode: Which segment of the market is feeling the heat and what it signals for the rest of us. Why 1950s brick homes are becoming the gold standard for savvy long-term buyers. Which parts of the country hold the real value lies for families right now. What is affecting consumer confidence and how it's showing up at auctions Is it time to return to the "old fashioned" view of property? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At 15, all Matt Moran knew is that he didn't want to be in school anymore. At 22, he had his first restaurant. And now, he has a name synonymous with success and excellence.  Matt opens up about his humble beginnings, the reality of the high-pressure world of professional kitchens, and just how far a desire to work, to learn, to ask the right questions, to trust the right people - and above all to become obsessed - can take you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts are calling this the worst fuel crisis in history.And despite petrol station closures and record costs to fill the tank, there are some effects that are still yet to be seen. Expert economist Evan Lucas helps break down exactly we could expect - the products we might see disappear from our supermarkets and stores, the downstream effects of $4+ per litre, how it could change policy and behaviour for good, and the situation's spooky similarities to what we saw during COVID. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our teens, most of us are figuring out our laundry. But Andrea Horwood was launching a magazine that would define a generation: Australian Style. And she hasn't stopped since then. Andrea is the ultimate serial entrepreneur: from that legendary magazine to creating the Australian summer staple, Invisible Zinc, and the globally successful wellness brand, WelleCo. Andrea has an insider's perspective on what it takes succeed again and again - using research, finding potential, pioneering impactful new products and doing it all in a way you can be proud of.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amidst the potential for unprecedented prices at the bowser and the checkout and likely increases to interest rates, Nine News Money Editor and consumer champion Effie Zahos tells us everything we need to know to stay financial afloat. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asher Keddie is, without a doubt, one of Australia's most loved actors - a title earned by many relatable and heartfelt roles. But the time in her career that feels most powerful and rewarding is happening now.  In this conversation, she tells Sylvia: How she learned about life on set Pivoting roles, backing yourself and finding a voice Going into a business partnership that is meaningful to her The power of giving back Proving those who doubt wrong  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With actions in the Middle East wiping billions from the market and from super, what are the crucial things we should (or shouldn't) be doing right now? Chris Brycki, founder and CEO of Stockspot breaks it all down, including what is causing the volatility, how long it's likely to last, the biggest mistakes to make sure you avoid, as well as the potential opportunities that exist at this moment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The panic you feel when checking your bank balance? The cycle of overspending or over-saving? It's not just about numbers—it's about the deep, unconscious money scripts running your life. Dr. Shefali Tsabary, the clinical psychologist, New York Times best-selling author, and revolutionary thinker famously endorsed by Oprah joins The Pay Off to talk about our approach to money.  Dr. Shefali shares how the ego dictates our decisions around debt, spending, and saving, how to conquer the paralysis of financial fear and how the emotional legacies of our childhoods shape our bank accounts today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa Browne, author and financial expert, knows what it takes to build wealth as a woman on her own. But in the process, she encountered some barriers and obstacles that not only took her by surprise, but illuminated an insidious systemic problem faced by nearly all women. Mel not only shares her raw powerful and personal story, but the exact methods and actions she took to rebuild her wealth. She also talks about: why the financial world wasn't built with women in mind how gendered language and ideas still create roadblocks what true wealth really means the unseen costs of menopause a better kind of 'girl math' Find more from Mel, including her new book Dare to be Wealthy, hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you win an Olympic medal when you’re locked in a dark room with a concussion? In this powerful and raw chat, one of our most successful Winter Olympians of all time discusses what it took to reach the summit of her sport, the challenges she overcame, the power of belief, the thing that was even harder than competition (that she’s even more proud of) and a confession of what her own lack of financial literacy cost her.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes the biggest secret to success isn’t a service or product, but about the strength of partnership. Scott and Elle Madden are the dynamic couple behind the fast-growing health and athleisure brand, FWD Form. This isn't your typical success story; it's a testament to resilience forged through fire. In today’s episode, these co-founders share the wild origin story of FWD Form, the financial and emotional challenges of being partners in life and business and why they prioritise consistency over quick-fix trends. They candidly share the impact of unexpectedly losing both their fathers within weeks and the difficult realities of grieving while running a company.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grief isn’t the only cost of loss.  Melissa Reader discovered this hard truth after living through the unimaginable: becoming a full–time caregiver to her husband, Mauro, whilst raising three young children and keeping their co–owned business afloat. This all came crashing down after Mauro passed away. In today’s episode, Melissa is here to confront the financial aftershocks of serious illness and death that most of us are completely unprepared for.  Melissa Reader is the CEO of Violet, a national NFP helping families plan for the later chapters of life, and founder and CEO of Vera, a digital platform supporting families through the ageing journey. Her work sits at the intersection of care, technology and wellbeing, helping people navigate later life with greater clarity, dignity and confidence - long before crisis hits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a full-time working parent who often feels like you just don't have time for this, I implore you to make time for this episode.  Kate Reeves and Gemma Pranita are the powerhouse hosts of the viral podcast We Don’t Have Time For This and are today's guests on The Pay Off. They’re two childhood best friends who turned their time-poor, opinion-rich dynamic into a booming business. We dive deep into the messy, glorious reality of working motherhood. Kate and Gemma share how they protected their friendship while building an empire, why they’re tired of being asked how they ‘juggle it all’ and their metrics for feeling rich in life.  This chat is frighteningly relatable and is sure to give you a full body LOL. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many of us, crypto still feels like a foreign language — but not for today's guest.  Jason Titman is the CEO of Australia's leading crypto exchange, SwyftX and joins The Pay Off to help demystify the world of digital currency. Jason, whose fascinating career spans from computer auditing and hotels to being a "King of Crypto," explains the tangible assets behind crypto and why the industry is shifting "from hoodies to suits."  From the ‘typical investor’ to the relationship between crypto and traditional banks, Jason shares his two cents on the future of finance. He also discusses his investment mindset, why AI will never override human behaviour in financial markets and his most enduring business lessons. Disclaimer: The information contained in this episode is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a finance professional.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might feel like a hot mess, but your money habits don’t have to be.  The financial fresh start you need for the new year is here and who better to kick this all off with than Emma Edwards, a certified financial behaviour specialist and founder of BROKE MEDIA.  In this episode, Emma, a self-proclaimed hot mess millennial, breaks down the insights from her best-selling book Good With Money and shares the practical tools from her new journey, The Wardrobe Project.  From better interrupting those automated spending habits to the savings dopamine hack you never thought was possible, you’re bound to walk away from this chat feeling in control of your finances. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to your masterclass for transforming extra income into lasting wealth. This "Best Of" episode is dedicated to unlocking the inside secrets from four incredible guests who successfully scaled their passion projects into full-blown, revenue-generating business empires! We've condensed hours of transformative interviews into a single, high-impact listen, giving you the proven playbooks and mindset shifts to make 2026 the year you become your own boss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ready to make next year your most impactful yet? We've raided the vault for our most inspiring, business-shifting, and life-changing conversations of the year and distilled them into one powerhouse episode! Hear the best advice from Meggie Palmer, Molly Benjamin and Dr Rebecca Ray around talking about money, whether it's with your boss, your best mate or on a first date.  This episode isn't just a look back—it's your clear-cut strategy for leaping forward into 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cashing in is great, but we think banking on yourself is even better.  That terrifying plunge into entrepreneurship is real, but you shouldn’t let the fear of the unknown sideline your ambition. Today’s guest can attest to exactly that. Doone Roisin, founder of The Female Startup Club, is on The Pay Off this week giving a masterclass on being bold, building community, and beating the odds.  In this episode, Doone opens up about her liberating decision to become a full-time entrepreneur, her slightly mischievous tactics for getting a CEO's attention and why she’s spending plenty of her time “talking to smart women”. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.