Finance Friends

33: Tom Waterhouse: Betting, Bookies, and an Outsized Edge

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +1100

In this episode of the Finance Friends Podcast, we sit down with Tom Waterhouse to unpack his journey from racetrack bookmaker to venture capital investor.

Tom grew up in Australia’s most well-known racing and betting family. He begun working the rails at horse races while studying at University, then built one of Australia’s fastest-growing online bookmakers with a unique twist.

If you’re curious about investing in the growing wagering industry, how AI is effecting the industry, and why equity options can be a powerful leveraged tool for investing in early-stage companies, this conversation delivers practical insights and hard-won lessons.

This is a true masterclass.

Visit https://tomwaterhouse.com/ and for more information on their VC fund visit https://www.waterhousevc.com/ today.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok for daily updates and more inspiring conversations. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

32: Re-Run Meet Chris Judd: The Legend, The Leader, The Investor

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +1100

Season 4 of the Finance Friends podcast is officially back! 🎙️

We thought there was no better way to launch back into this season than with a re-run of one of our most beloved guests, the legend himself, Chris Judd! And just in time for the first round of the 2026 AFL season.

In this episode, Chris retraces his path from buying his first shares at sixteen to crystallising a philosophy anchored to probabilities. He draws vivid lines between the locker room and the trading floor: at West Coast and Carlton, a culture obsessed with endurance became a true competitive edge; in business, a firm’s behaviour must fit its stated advantage or the story breaks.

Chris dives into why doing something different carries both the biggest wins and losses, how to judge management against promises, and why being disagreeable can help investors resist consensus without becoming reckless.

If you haven't listened to this episode yet, now's the time.

We’re gearing up for a season filled with brilliant minds, diverse investment philosophies, and conversations guaranteed to challenge and inspire. Stay tuned... there’s plenty more to come.

Visit the Cerutty Macro Fund website today: https://ceruttymacrofund.com.au/

31: Re-Run - Meet Vas Piperoglou: Markets, Discipline, and the Power of Patience

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +1100

This week we’re throwing it back to one of our favourite Season 1 episodes. We sat down with Vas, the CIO and co-founder of Collins Street Asset Management, to explore a value-investing philosophy built on focus, conviction, and the courage to look where everyone else isn’t.

From cracking open his piggy bank at twelve, to running a concentrated Australian equities fund, which has returned 13.8% p.a after fees since inception. Vas walks us through what real value investing looks like: intrinsic value over momentum, fundamentals over noise, and the freedom a boutique structure gives to take true contrarian positions.

What makes this conversation timeless is Vas’ process. He shares the routines that keep his decision-making sharp: batching emails, avoiding unsolicited calls, steering clear of social feeds, journaling every investment, and revisiting his own thinking to separate luck from skill. It’s a masterclass in staying disciplined when markets get loud.

If you care about value investing, concentrated portfolios, and building conviction without the noise, this conversation will sharpen how you think and how you allocate.

Follow Vas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vasilios-piperoglou-3122a3225/
Visit the Collins Street Asset Management Website: https://www.csvf.com.au/

30: Meet Jonas Benner: Bitcoiner, Crypto Guru, and Quant at AMP

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +1100

An Australian, nationally recognised, retail super fund investing in Bitcoin? That’s not a headline grab; it’s a measured, research-led step that says a lot about where money is going. This week, we sit down with AMP quantitative researcher Jonas Benner to unpack why a quant team that runs dynamic overlays across equities, bonds, and commodities now includes Bitcoin, and what it took to get there.

Jonas brings a rare blend of skills and perspective. He charts his path from Germany to Australia, the scramble after a COVID layoff, and the decision to rebuild his career in quantitative finance.

His resilience sets the stage for a clear, rigorous explanation of how Bitcoin actually works—open-source code, global nodes, and miners assembling transactions into blocks every 10 minutes. We dig into the halving schedule, the difficulty adjustment, and the 21 million cap, showing why supply cannot speed up when price rises, unlike gold or any other commodity.

Whether you’re sceptical or curious, this conversation gives you the mechanics, the incentives, and the institutional context to think like a professional investor.

Follow Jonas Benner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonas-benner/
Visit the AMP Website: https://www.amp.com.au/

29: Meet Andrew McKie: Monopolies, Markets and Mindset

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +1100

We are kicking off Season 4 with a powerhouse conversation as Fabian sits down with Andrew McKie, Co-Founder and Portfolio Manager at Elston Asset Management!

With two decades of experience navigating markets, constructing portfolios, and guiding clients through every economic cycle, Andrew brings unmatched clarity to a world that often feels overly complicated.

In this episode, we unpack how monopolistic advantages, culture, and execution compound far beyond any short‑term chart. Andrew’s path from recession‑era credit collections to stockbroking and on to building a specialist managed accounts platform sets the stage for a masterclass in investing.

If you want a clearer way to weigh value versus growth, judge management by outcomes, whether you're just starting your wealth journey or looking to sharpen your strategy, Andrew’s insights give you the tools and perspective to make smarter, more confident investment decisions

Follow Andrew McKie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-mckie-cfa-99949b40/
Visit the Elston Asset Management website: https://www.elston.com.au/asset-management/elston-asset-management/

Season 3 Wrap-Up & What’s Next: Sneak Peek at Season 4!

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +1100

That’s a wrap on Season 3 of Finance Friends - From the Field to Finance!

In this episode, we reflects on the conversations, lessons, and standout moments that defined this season — from navigating career pivots to uncovering what truly drives success in the world of finance. You’ll hear insights from some of our favourite guests, behind-the-scenes reflections, and what’s coming next.

Plus, a sneak peek into Season 4, where we’re diving deep into the world of investing — not just where to put your money, but how to think like an investor. Expect fresh perspectives, big names, and practical takeaways to help you build both financial literacy and confidence. Stay tuned...

Whether you’ve been here since Season 1 or just joined the Finance Friends community, this is the perfect episode to catch up, reflect, and get excited for what’s next.

Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok for daily updates and upcoming announcements!

Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

28: Meet Jack Trengove, Youngest AFL Captain, Equities Analyst at Lanyon Asset Management

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +1100

At just 20 years old, Jack Trengove made history as the youngest-ever captain in the AFL! Leading Melbourne Football Club with maturity beyond his years. After nearly a decade in professional sport, Jack made the bold move to pivot his career, trading the footy field for the finance world. Now an Equities Analyst at Lanyon Asset Management, he brings the same discipline, focus, and drive that once defined his playing career to the world of investing.

In this episode of Finance Friends Jack reflects on the highs and lows of elite sport. From leadership lessons and mental resilience to navigating injury setbacks and career transitions. He shares how those experiences shaped his approach to markets, risk, and long-term thinking, offering rare insight into how the mindset of an athlete can translate seamlessly into success in finance.

We also dive into what life looks like after professional sport, the importance of building identity beyond your first career, and Jack’s advice for young people figuring out their own path. Honest, grounded, and deeply reflective, this conversation is a reminder that reinvention is possible at any stage and that the qualities that make you great in one field can propel you just as far in another.

Follow Jack Trengove on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-trengove-6b602763/
Visit the Lanyon Asset Management website: https://lanyon.com.au/

27: Meet Izzy Chilcott, Professional WNBL Player and Director and Fund Manager at Centuria Bass Credit

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +1000

From scoring three-pointers at the University of San Diego to leading major real estate credit strategies as Director at Centuria Bass Credit, Izzy Chilcott's journey demonstrates how elite sporting mindsets create exceptional business outcomes.

Izzy's basketball career took her from the Gold Coast to college basketball in the U.S.A, then through a decade in Australia's WNBL, culminating in a championship with the Melbourne Boomers in 2022 – her final professional game. Unlike many athletes, Izzy maintained a parallel finance career throughout, providing a seamless transition when she hung up her basketball shoes. This dual-career approach, while challenging, built exceptional resilience, discipline, and adaptability - qualities that now underpin her success in finance.

At Centuria Bass Credit, Izzy leads a team providing non-bank lending solutions for commercial real estate developers. Her funds offer something traditional banks can't – speed and flexibility worth paying premium rates for.

The parallels between basketball and finance are striking – teamwork, performing under pressure, and maintaining high standards translate directly between court and boardroom.

Follow Izzy Chilcott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/izzy-chilcott-abb8a3157/?originalSubdomain=au
Visit the Centuria Bass Credit website: https://www.centuriabass.com.au/

26: Meet Andy Gowers, Hawthorn FC President, Former AFL Player, and Founder of Vest Advisory

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +1000

From premiership glory at Hawthorn to the boardroom as President of the Club and Founder of Vest Advisory, Andy Gowers’ journey is one of leadership, trust, and reinvention.

Known as a hard-working half-back in Hawthorn’s 1991 Premiership side, Andy’s playing career was built on discipline, resilience, and a relentless team-first mindset. But his story didn’t end when he hung up the boots. Instead, he turned those same qualities toward business, founding Vest Advisory to help families and business owners navigate the complex world of succession planning.

Andy reflects on the challenges of dealing with money, family, and legacy all at once, and why independence and trust are crucial in guiding clients through life’s toughest decisions. At the same time, he opens up about his path back into football leadership, culminating in his election as President of the Hawthorn Football Club in a defining moment for the club’s future.

Ready to discover how lessons from the field shape leadership in business and beyond? Tune in for Andy’s insights on resilience, navigating pressure, and why being interested in people is the real key to influence.

Follow Andy Gowers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/successionwealthestatetransfer/
Visit the Vest Advisory's website: https://www.vestadvisory.com/

25: Meet Tom King, Olympic Champion and Chief Investment Officer of Nanuk Asset Management

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +1000

What happens after you've reached the pinnacle of human achievement? For Tom King, Olympic gold medalist in sailing at the 2000 Sydney Games, the journey from elite athletics to the corporate world reveals surprising challenges and universal truths about success, purpose, and reinvention.

Tom pulls back the curtain on his remarkable path from sailing on Albert Park Lake as a teenager to becoming Chief Investment Officer at Nanuk Asset Management, Australia's leading sustainable investment firm.

Tom's story illuminates how seemingly disconnected experiences create unexpected opportunities. His sustainable investment focus now channels his competitive drive toward positive global impact through industries ranging from renewables to healthcare technology.

Whether you're navigating a career transition, interested in sustainable investing, or simply curious about what happens after the Olympic podium, Tom's journey offers powerful insights about reinvention and finding meaning in the next chapter of life.

Follow Tom King on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-king-9690a9368/
Visit the Nanuk Asset Management website: https://www.nanukasset.com/

Content Note
This episode discusses themes of depression, purpose, identity, and life transitions. If these topics raise concerns for you, know that support is available.

Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au
Headspace (for young people aged 12–25) | headspace.org.au
If you’re in immediate danger, please call 000.

24: Meet Shane Wakelin, Renowned AFL Player, and Executive Director of Distribution at Ark Capital

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +1000

From AFL powerhouse to Executive Director of Distribution at ARK Capital: Shane Wakelin’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and leadership beyond the field.

Across 252 AFL games with St Kilda and Collingwood, Shane Wakelin built a reputation as a tough, reliable player who thrived under pressure. But what makes his journey remarkable is how he managed the transition into his second career.

The lessons from elite sport form the backbone of Shane's business approach. Working under Eddie McGuire and Mick Malthouse at Collingwood instilled a ruthless pursuit of excellence that continues to drive him today. The resilience that helped him bounce back from being dropped or losing grand finals became crucial when navigating uncertainty in business. His emphasis on finding strong mentors and maintaining curiosity has led to success.

Ready to hear how the discipline of professional sport translates to finance success? Listen now for insights that will change how you think about career resilience, leadership, and the importance of grinding through difficult transitions.

Follow Shane Wakelin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-wakelin-6619599b/
Visit the ARK Capital Fund's website: https://arkcapital.com.au/

23: Meet Grant Hackett OAM, Olympic Gold Medallist and CEO of Generation Development Group

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +1000

Grant Hackett's journey from Olympic gold medal glory to CEO of a $2 billion ASX-listed company offers a masterclass in high-performance mindset and leadership transition.

When Grant Hackett was 13 years old, he made a decision that would shape his entire life: he wasn't just going to the Olympics – he was going to win gold. This clarity of purpose drove him to become a three-time Olympic gold medallist who dominated the 1500m freestyle for 11 years. But what's truly remarkable is how he's applied that same championship mindset to transform Generation Development Group from a $50 million company to a nearly $2 billion enterprise.

The parallels between elite sport and executive leadership shine through Hackett's story. The margins in Olympic swimming are devastatingly small and this appreciation for detail and discipline informs his approach to business execution, where he focuses on consistent fundamentals while maintaining strategic clarity. His leadership philosophy emphasises creating teams with genuine purpose, clear objectives, and disciplined daily practices that accumulate toward significant achievements.

Want to learn how champion mindsets translate between worlds? Join us for this extraordinary conversation with one of Australia's most accomplished athletes turned business leaders.

Follow Grant Hackett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-hackett-oam-30820225/
Visit the Generation Development Group (ASX:GDG) website: https://www.wilsonsadvisory.com.au/

22: Meet Ted Richards, Iconic AFL Defender and Head of Melbourne at Wilsons Advisory

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +1000

From premiership glory to private wealth... Ted Richards joins us for Episode 3 of From the Field to Finance!

A former Sydney Swans premiership player and All-Australian defender, Ted takes us on an extraordinary journey from elite sport to high-stakes finance. With remarkable candour, he shares the mindset shift that transformed his football career, becoming the best centre-half back in the competition through self-belief, visualisation, and mental resilience.

While playing AFL for 15 years, Ted was also quietly building a parallel path studying commerce and finance and preparing for a future beyond the field. That dual commitment coincided with some of his most successful years on the field.

Now Head of Melbourne at Wilsons Advisory, Ted brings the same discipline and competitive edge to managing wealth for high-net-worth clients. Ted applies performance principles from the locker room to the boardroom.

This episode unpacks how mental strength outweighs physical prowess, why preparation is the ultimate edge, and how success is best measured far beyond your first act.

Whether you're planning your next chapter, building your portfolio, or striving to stay sharp in a fast-moving world - Ted’s story is a powerful playbook for long-term thinking and reinvention.

Follow Ted Richards on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-hackett-oam-30820225/
Visit the Wilsons Advisory website: https://www.wilsonsadvisory.com.au/

21: Meet Luke Jones, Former Wallaby, Rugby Union Star and Investment Specialist at Fawkner Property

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +1000

Former Wallaby, international rugby star, and now Investment Specialist... Luke Jones joins us for the second episode of From the Field to Finance!

After a 14-year professional rugby career that spanned Australia and France, Luke made the leap from elite sport into the world of Finance. Now an Investment Specialist at Fawkner Property, he’s responsible for raising millions in capital and thriving in a new kind of pressure environment.

In this episode, Luke reflects on the identity shift that comes with life after sport, the steep learning curve of entering the corporate world, and the discipline and resilience that elite rugby instilled in him.

Luke shares the honest and often humorous realities of navigating a second career, what drives him now, and why staying curious and connected has been key to his reinvention.

Whether you're an athlete, an investor, or simply curious about what it takes to reinvent yourself, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Follow Luke Jones on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukejones91/
Learn more about Fawkner Property: https://www.fawknerproperty.com.au/

20: Meet Chris Judd, AFL Star, Founder of Cerutty Macro Fund

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +1000

He needs absolutely no introduction...

A two-time Brownlow Medallist, premiership captain, and one of the greatest to ever play the game, AFL legend, Chris Judd, kicks off our exclusive third season: From the Field to Finance.

Judd's transition from AFL superstar to successful portfolio manager and Founder of the Cerutty Macro Fund, reveals striking parallels between elite sport and financial markets. He shares his strategic thinking and competitive drive to investment management that made him a football legend.

In this episode, Judd shares what it was like stepping away from the game, the identity shift that followed, and how he carved out a new path in the world of finance. From leadership on the field to decision-making under pressure, he offers rare insight into what it takes to succeed in both arenas.

Whether you’re a sports fan, finance enthusiast, or just curious about what reinvention and success really looks like — this one’s not to be missed.

Visit the Cerutty Macro Fund website today: https://ceruttymacrofund.com.au/

Season 2 Wrap-Up & What’s Next: Sneak Peek at Season 3!

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +1000

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of a finance podcast? Host Fabian and producer Sienna pull back the curtain to share the Finance Friends journey and preview an extraordinary new season featuring sports stars who've conquered the finance world.

Want the inside scoop on which sports stars are joining us? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok for daily updates and subscribe on your favourite podcast platform to be first in line when Season 3 drops in just a few weeks!

Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

19: Meet Natalie Jollow, Head of Marketing at GlobalX

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +1000

What does it take to rise from a call centre agent to the head of marketing at a major investment firm? Nat Jollow's journey shatters expectations and offers a refreshingly honest look at career development in financial services.

This episode delves deep into how modern marketing within financial services has evolved beyond creative campaigns to become a strategic, data-driven function. As Head of Marketing at GlobalX, Nat candidly discusses the importance of building stakeholder relationships, and managing a specialised team of six across different marketing disciplines.

For anyone considering a marketing career or leadership role in financial services, Nat's insights are gold. She emphasises the importance of adaptability, recommends aspiring marketers stay flexible, network extensively, and develop broad skills. Nat shares how her experience proves that non-linear career paths often lead to the most rewarding destinations, sometimes the detours become the main road to success!

18: Meet James Wrigley, Financial Advisor and Finfluencer

Tue, 27 May 2025 09:00:00 +1000

What happens when a financial advisor goes viral? James Wrigley has amassed over 220,000 followers across social media platforms with his refreshingly authentic approach to financial advice, reaching millions of people worldwide with every post. But his success story begins far from the spotlight.

Now, James is a principal advisor helping clients navigate the complex relationship between money and life satisfaction. His most powerful insight? Financial advice isn't just about numbers—it's about helping people understand what they truly want from life.

For those interested in financial advising careers, James offers practical wisdom: "The hardest job to get is the first one." He encourages saying yes to opportunities, even when they seem daunting. His own social media success came from abandoning polished, corporate content in favour of authentic videos often recorded while walking to the gym or working in his garden. These raw, unfiltered moments connect most powerfully with his audience.

Follow James on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn today!

17: Meet Nadia Jaworski, Infrastructure Strategy Advisor and Partner of Maverick Advisors

Tue, 20 May 2025 08:00:00 +1000

Join us as we sit down with Nadia Jaworski, joint founder and partner of Maverick Advisors, who pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of social infrastructure development. With over 25 years of experience working across both government and private sectors, Nadia offers rare insights into how essential community facilities move from idea to reality.

The conversation delves into the challenges facing infrastructure development today, from fiscal constraints to climate considerations. Nadia shares how COVID disrupted construction supply chains and budgets, requiring greater innovation and risk management.

For aspiring professionals, Nadia's advice is refreshingly practical: "Just give anything a go." Her own story demonstrates how taking on challenging projects and building networks can lead to remarkable career success. As a passionate advocate for diversity, she discusses how Maverick Advisors maintains 50% female leadership and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of women in infrastructure.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok for daily updates and more inspiring conversations. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

16: Meet Ray Becher, Property Advisor and Senior Buyers Agent

Mon, 12 May 2025 09:00:00 +1000

What separates a great property purchase from a costly mistake? Ray Becher, Property Advisor and Senior Buyer's Agent at Cohen Handler, reveals the strategic depth behind successful property transactions that most buyers never consider.

Drawing on three generations of property knowledge, Ray takes us through his fascinating journey from performance studies graduate to marketing professional to trusted property advisor.

Ray's approach transcends simple transactions. He delves into the psychology of buying versus selling, explaining why understanding human motivation is crucial to negotiation.

For those considering a career pivot, Ray offers invaluable wisdom: surround yourself with mentors you can learn from, have confidence to back yourself regardless of age, and most importantly, pursue what genuinely inspires you. His philosophy that "it takes as long as it takes" to find the right property reflects the patience and expertise that have made him a standout in his field.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok for daily updates and more inspiring conversations. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

15: Meet Marc Olynyk, Senior Lecturer and Course Director of Financial Planning.

Mon, 05 May 2025 09:00:00 +1000

Career journeys are rarely straightforward, and Marc Olynyk's path from accounting to academia proves just that.

In this weeks episode, our host Fabian Ruggieri chats with his past professor Marc, now the Senior Lecturer and Course Director at Deakin University's renowned financial planning program. Marc takes us through the unexpected twists that led him to his passion.

What makes Marc's story particularly valuable for aspiring financial planners is his practical advice on breaking into the industry, he advises students every day who struggle to find their first opportunity. Having guided countless students into successful careers, Marc emphasises that relationship-building skills are integral in determining long-term success.

The conversation provides a fascinating look at how financial planning education has evolved—from minimal requirements in the 1990s to today's comprehensive degree programs. A field he initially knew little about but would come to shape for decades.

For any of our listeners considering financial planning as a career, Marc offers this reassurance: finding your passion may take time but your career path, like Marc's journey from pub audits to professorship, can take unexpected but rewarding turns.

14: Meet Andrew Beaumont, Director of Vest Capital

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +1000

In this weeks episode, Fabian chats with Andrew Beaumont, Director of Vest Capital. Andrew reveals the inner workings of private credit and how Vest Capital is changing the game for businesses needing fast, flexible financing solutions across Australia.

Andrew's personal journey from big four accounting through management consulting to fund management provides valuable lessons for finance professionals. He emphasises surrounding yourself with exceptional talent who think differently and creating environments where ideas flow freely. Most importantly, he credits Vest Capital's rapid growth to a shared commitment to excellence and mutual support amongst their team.

If you're an aspiring finance professional, or simply keen on gaining some extra industry insight, this episode is for you!

13: Meet Sean Graham, Managing Director of Assured Support

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +1000

Sean Graham, Managing Director of Assured Support, takes us on a journey through the evolution of compliance in Australia's financial advice landscape. Far from the rigid box-ticking exercise of decades past, today's compliance function requires creativity, psychological insight, and commercial acumen to drive better business outcomes.

What makes an exceptional compliance professional? Sean argues the best are creative problem-solvers who can contextualise regulations and influence behaviour without direct authority.

For advisors seeking to build sustainable, profitable practices delivering superior client outcomes, this episode offers invaluable insights into leveraging compliance as a strategic advantage rather than viewing it as a necessary evil. Whether you're a professional or considering a career in financial services, Sean's journey from aspiring criminal lawyer to compliance expert demonstrates how the most rewarding paths often emerge unexpectedly.

12: Meet Samantha Sun, Senior Manager Practice Engagement & Growth

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +1000

Ever wondered about the invisible support system behind successful finance professionals? This week, our host, Fabian Ruggieri chats with Samantha Sun as she pulls back the curtain on this fascinating profession in a candid conversation that explores the critical role of practice management in helping advisors build thriving businesses.

As Senior Practice Engagement and Growth Manager at Entireti, Samantha supports financial planning practices across Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. Her work combines strategic business coaching, accountability frameworks, and professional development initiatives that enable advisors to achieve more than they thought possible.

Whether you're considering a career in financial planning, already working in the industry, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers valuable insights. Discover why Samantha believes financial planners do such an amazing job and how supporting their businesses allows more Australians to access quality financial advice.

11: Meet David Werdiger, Family Wealth Generalist

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +1000

This week, our host, Fabian Ruggieri chats with David Werdiger, Family Wealth Generalist. Having navigated his own journey from working in his own family's business, to working on software development, to successful tech entrepreneur, and finally to his current role as an author and generalist advisor on family dynamics and wealth transition.

Through this conversation, Werdiger emphasises the importance of collaboration between specialists and taking a family-centric rather than advisor-centric approach. His work through Swinburne University, Harvard Business School, and the Ultra High Net Worth Institute reflects this multifaceted approach to helping families create legacies that last beyond financial wealth.

Whether you're part of a family business, navigating succession or simply interested in the psychology of wealth, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on building "castles" that stand the test of time across generations.

10: Meet Chris Clayton, Head of Distribution at L1 Capital

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +1100

Meet Chris Clayton, Head of Distribuition at L1 Capital. Chris shares his journey with us in this episode from starting as a manager at McDonalds when he was 18, to becoming a CEO of a funds management firm by 29.

This conversation peels back the curtain on success and servant leadership in finance, with Clayton explaining how important empowerment is in a team.

For aspiring finance professionals, Clayton reveals his four-part framework for evaluating talent: commercial skills, technical knowledge, relationship abilities, and creativity. Whether you're just starting your finance career or leading a team, Clayton's insights on balancing technical expertise with humanity offer a masterclass in modern leadership.

9: Meet Stefan Galbo, Partner, Corporate Finance at PKF

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +1100

Explore the world as a Partner in Corporate Finance with this weeks guest, Stefan Galbo. Stefan shares how his humble beginnings working in a Greek restaurant through high school and university, taught him valuable life lessons, of which he continues to implement into his everyday life, and that ultimately led him to the success he wears every single day.

As a long-time friend of our host, Fabian Ruggieri, Stefan is raw, authentic and incredibly insightful. Listeners gain practical tips for achieving a healthy work-life balance. He emphasises the significance of networking, communication skills, and personal growth. This episode is not just about finance; it’s about understanding the broader world of work and personal life in the pursuit of success. You don’t want to miss it!

8: Meet Diana Mousina, Deputy Chief Economist at AMP

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +1100

Dive into the world of economics with Diana Mussina, the Deputy Chief Economist at AMP, in the first episode of Season 2 at Finance Friends! Diana shares her inspiring journey from a finance and economics student at the University of New South Wales to a leading role in one of Australia's prominent financial institutions.

Listeners will learn about the intricacies of precarious economic forecasting, the transition from sell-side to buy-side roles, and Diana's firsthand experiences during unpredictable market cycles. With insights into the importance of effective communication in conveying economic data, Diana provides invaluable advice for anyone looking to carve out a career in finance.

Follow Diana on LinkedIn and check out @Econosights on Instagram for more economic insights. You can also listen to their podcast, linked here, for expert takes on market trends and financial strategies.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram and TikTok for updates and more inspiring conversations. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

7: Meet Frank Campisi, Mortgage Broker

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +1100

Join us in this week’s episode of Finance Friends with Fabian as we chat with Frank Campisi, mortgage broker and co-founder of Explore Finance. Frank opens up about his career journey from accounting to broking, the key skills for building trust with clients, and how he balances a busy professional life with running a farm and a childcare business.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow Finance Friends Podcast on Instagram and TikTok for updates and more inspiring conversations. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send us a DM @financefriendspodcast!

6: Meet Stefan D'Alessandro, Risk Insurance Adviser

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +1100

Join us in this weeks episode of Finance Friends with Fabian, as we chat with Stefan D'Alessandro, founder and director of The Risk Lab, about his journey from computer science to risk insurance specialist. Stefan shares his thoughts about building meaningful client relationships, the importance of balancing work with personal passions, and how his approach to business aligns with his values.

5: Meet Peter Vlachos, Senior Distribution Manager

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +1100

Join us in this week’s episode as we sit down with Peter Vlachos, Senior Distribution Manager at Elston Asset Management. Peter takes us through his journey from studying financial planning to becoming a key player in the funds management industry. He shares valuable insights into the challenges of building relationships, the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, and how consistent effort drives long-term success. Beyond finance, Vlachos offers our listeners advice on discipline, mindset, and achieving personal and professional goals.

Love what you heard? Follow Finance Friends with Fabian for more inspiring stories and advice from industry leaders. Got a topic or question for future episodes? Reach out to us via Instagram DM @financefriendspodcast

4: Meet Kieran Berry, Managing Director and CEO

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +1100

Join us in this weeks episode of Finance Friends with Fabian, as we sit down with Kieran Berry, CEO and Managing Director of RiverX, one of Australia’s fastest-growing investment advisory firms. Kieran shares his journey from selling stock market newsletters at 23 to building his own business, offering insights into the challenges of building a client book, managing a company, and balancing personal life. Beyond finance, Kieran highlights the importance of discipline, routine, and fitness in achieving success, offering advice for all aspiring financial professionals.

3: Meet Vas Piperoglou, Chief Investment Officer

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +1100

Join us in this weeks episode as we chat with Vas Piperoglou, Co-founder and Chief Investment Officer at Collins Street Asset Management. Vas' path to a successful career was paved by motivation, ambition, and the power of knowledge. From starting his investment journey at the age of only 12 with the help of his father, Vas developed a passion for understanding markets. In this conversation, he shares with us the lessons he's learned along the way, the principles that guide his investment decisions, and his insights into the evolving financial landscape.

2: Meet Chris MacEachern, Financial Planning CEO

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +1100

Join us as we chat with Chris MacEachern, AKA C-Mac, the Financial Planning CEO behind Australia's Freedom Finance. Chris's path to success is a testament to resilience and strategic thinking. Listen in as we explore how his early interest in finance, sparked by his father's day trading, led him to the successful career he has today.

1: Meet Fabian Ruggieri, Director of RIVA Recruitment

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +1100

In the first episode of Finance Friends with Fabian, we dive into the personal and professional journey of Fabian, director of RIVA Recruitment and our podcast host. Joined by co-host Megan, Fabian shares his path from studying finance at La Trobe University to working at prestigious financial firms, both in Australia and abroad. With insightful reflections, he discusses his early career challenges, the lessons he learned managing high-net-worth clients, and his eventual leap into recruitment.