The Dollars & Sense Podcast

Hosted by Tim Ellis & Brodie Haggerty

Business Investing Education

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-NZ

About the show

The Dollars & Sense Podcast: Smart Finance for Kiwis in Their Prime Tired of generic money advice that doesn't fit your life? Hosted by qualified NZ financial advisers Tim Ellis and Brodie Haggerty, this podcast cuts through the noise to deliver real-talk financial literacy for New Zealanders in their mid-30s to late-40s. Whether you're growing your wealth, protecting assets amid rising costs, or planning for family milestones like buying a home or prepping for retirement, we've got actionable strategies tailored to Kiwi realities—think IRD tax hacks, KiwiSaver tweaks, and recession-proof investing. With 50+ episodes packed with expert insights, listener Q&As, and no-BS breakdowns (from "Bulletproofing Your Super in Uncertain Times" to "Side Hustles That Actually Build Equity"), we're back from a quick hiatus with fresh weekly drops starting now. No jargon, just dollars and sense to help you thrive. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your fave app—join thousands of Kiwis leveling up their finances. Got a question? Email us podcast@foxplan.nz (or drop it in the show notes). Let's make your money work harder for you. #FinancialLiteracyNZ #WealthBuilding #AssetProtection #KiwiFinance

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60 recent

June 16, 2026Episode 1728 min

The $75 Billion Question: Is SpaceX Worth It?

Send us Fan MailSpaceX is finally going public, and the numbers are staggering. With an expected valuation of $1.75 trillion and just 5% of shares available to investors, this could become the largest IPO in history. In this episode, Tim and Brodie break down what an IPO actually is, why SpaceX is attracting so much attention, how it compares to Tesla's famous IPO, and whether investors should be excited, cautious, or both. Most importantly, they discuss what this means for everyday investors and how to avoid letting FOMO derail a solid financial plan. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

June 10, 2026Episode 1627 min

Which Tax Pill do you want to swallow?

Send us Fan MailMost Kiwi investors know about tax on their salary or earnt income, but far fewer understand how investment tax actually works.In this episode, Tim and Brodie break down three of the most important tax concepts for investors: PIE tax, Foreign Investment Fund (FIF) tax, and the differences between the FDR and CV calculation methods. They explain why many investors receive tax reports this time of year, how overseas investments are taxed, when you may have choices around how your tax is calculated, and why fees and tax efficiency can have a significant impact on long-term returns.Whether you're investing through KiwiSaver, managed funds, or holding overseas shares directly, this episode will help you better understand your obligations and opportunities as an investor.This episode contains general information only and should not be considered tax or financial advice. Please seek professional advice appropriate to your circumstances.If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

June 2, 2026Episode 1537 min

From $0 to $120 Billion: The Evolution of KiwiSaver

Send us Fan MailJuly 2027 marks 20 years since KiwiSaver was introduced to New Zealand. In that time, it has grown from a brand-new savings scheme into a $120+ billion investment powerhouse that will likely become the largest asset many Kiwis ever own. In this episode, Tim and Brodie look back at how KiwiSaver has evolved since 2007, from the dominance of bank providers to the rise of specialist fund managers, changing investment strategies, and the growing shift toward passive investing. They explore what these trends might tell us about the future of KiwiSaver, including contribution rates, fees, regulation, and whether New Zealand's retirement system is heading for major change. If the last 20 years transformed KiwiSaver beyond recognition, what might the next 20 years bring? If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

May 26, 2026Episode 1420 min

The “Now and Then” Exercise That Creates Better Financial Decisions

Send us Fan MailWithout clear direction, every financial plan is both right and wrong at the same time.In this episode, Tim steps away from the spreadsheets and market analysis to explain one of the most important exercises used in real financial planning conversations: defining what a wealthy life actually looks and feels like for you.The “Now and Then” exercise helps uncover the goals, emotions, frustrations, and life outcomes sitting underneath money decisions. Without clear direction, every financial plan is both right and wrong at the same time.This episode walks through: Why vague goals lead to weak financial plans The questions good advisors ask before giving recommendations How to define what you actually want life to feel like Turning emotions into measurable goals Breaking long-term outcomes into realistic yearly milestones Whether you’re starting financial planning for the first time, going through a major life transition, or simply feeling unsure about what comes next, this episode gives you a practical framework to think more clearly about your future.If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

May 19, 202627 min

When Financial Advice Fees Go Too Far

Send us Fan MailMost financial advisers defend adviser fees. In this episode, Tim and Brodie do something different...... they challenge them.From ongoing fees on “set and forget” portfolios, to percentage-based charges that grow far faster than the actual work involved, this episode explores when adviser fees genuinely deliver value… and when they may not.Tim and Brodie unpack: Why unclear fees are always a problem Whether passive investment portfolios justify ongoing advice fees The issue with commission clawbacks and conflicted incentives Why some clients end up paying far more without receiving far more service And how fees quietly compound against long-term wealth The episode also explores the origin story behind FNZ — a business now administering trillions globally — which reportedly began after its founder questioned the fairness of the fees his own parents were paying.This isn’t an anti-adviser conversation.It’s a transparency conversation.Because at the end of the day, clients deserve to know: What they’re paying, why they’re paying it, and what value they’re actually receiving. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

May 12, 2026Episode 1229 min

Are Expensive Funds Delivering Better Results?

Send us Fan MailA recent RNZ headline claimed all active fund managers underperformed over the last year — a bold statement that sparked plenty of debate across the investment world. But how accurate is that headline, and what does the underlying data actually show? In this episode, Tim Ellis and Brodie Haggerty unpack the latest SPIVA report, break down the difference between active and passive investing, and explore why so many fund managers struggle to consistently beat the market over the long term. They also discuss survivorship bias, the impact of fees, why “top-performing funds” can be misleading, and what investors should really be paying attention to when reviewing their KiwiSaver or investment portfolio. Whether you’re invested through a bank, adviser, or KiwiSaver provider, this episode is a practical look at the evidence behind one of investing’s biggest ongoing debates. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

April 27, 2026Episode 1127 min

The Real Cost of S&P 500 ETFs (It’s Not What You Think)

Send us Fan Mail"Just buy a low cost S&P500 index tracking fund....."Most investors think buying a low-cost S&P 500 ETF is the smartest move they can make—but the 0.03% fee doesn’t tell the full story. In this episode, I break down the hidden costs, missed opportunities, and structural limitations of passive investing. If you’re relying on “cheap” as your strategy, this one might change how you think about it. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

April 20, 2026Episode 1046 min

The Hidden Risks of Early Retirement — with Taylor Schulte

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Taylor Schulte, founder of Define Financial and host of the Stay Wealthy Retirement Podcast. We unpack why retirement, especially early retirement, is far more of a psychological challenge than a financial one. From identity loss to spending anxiety, this conversation highlights the real risks people overlook when planning their exit from work.As mentioned in this weeks episode, a link to Taylor's own episode that dives deeper into the 4% of stocks that have actually provided shareholder wealth can be found below,https://open.spotify.com/episode/7qmkmpwrfOpqTKamBD5c7Z?si=1ca3856e3a5440eaIf you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

April 14, 2026Episode 918 min

Q1 2026 Market Recap: What Actually Happened

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Tim breaks down what actually happened across global markets, why investor sentiment has shifted, and how similar this year looks to past market cycles. More importantly, he explains why short-term volatility might not mean what you think it does for your long-term plan. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure

April 7, 2026Episode 825 min

You Retire… Then Lose Half Your Money. Now What?

Send us Fan MailThis year, tens of thousands of Kiwis will reach retirement age — but how much does timing really matter? In this episode, I break down three real retirement scenarios using the same $2M portfolio across very different market conditions. The results might surprise you — and challenge how you think about risk, timing, and what actually makes a plan successful. If you have a question, suggestions, or a topic you would like us to cover, please send an email to: podcast@foxplan.nzFor More Dollars & Sense Content: Click HereListen to all The Dollars & Sense Podcasts: Click HereThe information shared on The Dollars & Sense Podcast is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. Dollars & Sense exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. Tim Ellis (FSP778196) and Brodie Haggerty (FSP778174) are both Financial Advisers providing advice on behalf of FoxPlan Ltd. FoxPlan Ltd (FSP39630) is a licensed Financial Advice Provider. Important information can be found at www.foxplan.nz/disclosure