This week on Prime Time, we dive into the art of taking a midlife sabbatical with Mel Pike. At 53, Mel took extended leave from her public service role and spent five months living in Thailand, using the time to decompress and rediscover what she wanted from the next stage of her life. We’ll explore her entire journey, from how she saved for it to what she did during her stay.  You can find Mel's book, 'Doing Life Differently in Thailand' here:  https://amzn.to/3yWawmo Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Prime Time, I’m joined by Dr. Nick Coatsworth — an infectious disease and respiratory physician, former Deputy Chief Medical Officer, and the host of the TV show Do You Want to Live Forever? We’re diving into the science and medical advancements in ageing and longevity, and exploring what we can all do to make the most of our prime time years. Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode I sit down with Jane Mathews—author, advocate for solo living, and proud single woman—to chat about her book, The Art of Living Alone and Loving It. We dive into the perks and pitfalls of living solo in your Prime Time, and let me tell you, nothing’s off the table in this conversation! We discuss: The reality vs. social perception of solo livingMental strength and tools for navigating lonelinessSkills, goal-setting, and self-acceptanceMindset shifts and embracing solo livingEnjoying your own company  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In retirement phase, there’s simply no government benchmarks for reviewing the performance of your superannuation fund and the fees they charge. This makes it challenging for retirees to evaluate whether their retirement phase funds really are performing. So this week we’re talking to Ian Fryer from Chant West about the best performing funds in the 2023/24 financial year.   We talk about the investment returns of the best performing funds over 1 year and 10 year horizons. And, we talk about how you should be evaluating your fund’s performance with this information.   Keep an eye out, I’ll be publishing a special release of the best performing super funds for 2023/24  in The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald, Brisbane Times and WA Today and on the Epic Retirement newsletter this weekend.  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode I bring YOUR most frequently asked finance questions directly to certified financial planner PAUL BENSON, from Guidance Financial Services. We discuss: What is considered a reasonable annual fee to see a reputable financial advisor Mortgage v. Super Financial pros and cons of early retirementFinding confidence to front end load spending on experiencesPros & cons of leaving your super invested in its current option Planning for costs associated with ageing    Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and is rapidly approaching the number one spot. Most people in the second half of life start to worry about their cognition, knowing it is directly tied to our quality of life. In this episode, I chat with Dr. Daniel Blackmore, Research Fellow at the Queensland Brain Institute and one of the leaders behind a groundbreaking new study. This study shows that a specific type of exercise—high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on a walking machine—can improve your brain’s cognitive function and reduce your risk of dementia for up to five years, after just a six-month burst of activity.  This research could fundamentally shift why we exercise in our Prime Time—from focusing on weight management and mobility to boosting our cognitive power. Today, we dive into the science behind this discovery, and what we can all take away from the research and apply to our own lives - if we dare. Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered if you were having a midlife crisis? And HOW you might navigate it and come out the other side a better version of yourself? In this episode I speak to psychologist and psychotherapist Dr.Julie Hannan, author of the 'Midlife Crisis Handbook: Finding Direction in the Second Half of Life'. We delve into the intricacies of the midlife crisis, getting a deeper understand of what it is, how to recognise it and how to OVERCOME one. Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About 40 % of Aussie super funds are handing out cash bonuses at retirement, but each fund is handling it differently and it's important to understand HOW.  In this episode I chat to Anne Fuchs, Executive General Manager of Advice, Guidance and Education at The Australian Retirement Trust (or ART) to find out exactly how they're doing it.   Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the beginning of the new financial year, a clean slate for investors, funds and the economy. What really matters to Prime Timers is how they are going to hit their income and growth targets this year, and whether that’s possible. So joining me for the first week of the new financial year is one of Australia’s most well-known and well-respected economists, Shane Oliver Chief Economist at AMP, to talk us through his read on the year just ended and his outlook for 2024/25 and beyond. Highlights of the conversation: Unexpected positives and one thing to watchThe past financial year turned out better than most economists expected. Shane explains why.The one area of concern that investors should keep an eye on.The outlook for Australian equities is strong: Shane shares his insights into where growth is expected and where slowdowns might occur over the next 1-5 years.Geo-political impact.What to expect with inflation and interest rates and how to protect your savings and investments. Balancing income and growth.Tips on how to grow your wealth by taking calculated risks.Legislation and policy changes.Australian housing market: How the housing market is faring, and what changes to immigration, construction and the housing economy means for Prime Timers considering downsizing or using home equity release schemes.Travel and the Aussie dollar: Predictions for the Australian dollar and the best travel destinations to get more bang for your buck. Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giving or loaning money to your kids may make a lot of sense financially, BUT there can be hidden costs.  In this episode, I speak to Brian Herd, partner of the Estates and Succession team at HopgoodGanim Lawyers, about the pitfalls of WILLS and ESTATE planning, especially when it comes to working out what's best for your OWN retirement, and ensuring your kids' future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Exchange Traded Funds, or ETF's, have been the investment BUZZWORD for a while now - especially in the world of financial influencers on social media. But ETF's aren't just for Gen Z and the FinFluencers on TikTok.  In this episode I chat to Senior Financial Advisor David Lane to find out exactly what an ‘ETF’ is, how the use of ETFs has revolutionised investing and HOW those in their Prime Time, or already in retirement, can use ETFs to their advantage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A special episode for the ladies. I chat to leading female health and menopause expert Dr. Ginni Mansberg to dispel the myths around Hormone Replacement Therapy.  We break down the latest science in the area, who can benefit from the treatment and how it could change your life for the better.  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I chat to financial planner and expert in retirement wealth management Jamie Nemtsas, to uncover his essential and PRACTICAL rules of investment.  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Chesworth is a truly epic retiree. He's had a full and rewarding career, but the fun really started when he stepped down from his 9-5 and started exploring other things in life. In this episode, Mike Chesworth shares some of his more epic adventure stories, how he ended up following his passion at University, how he embraces this new phase of life and practical tips on how to get there.  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The End of Financial Year is just around the corner, so I catch up with Financial Planner Paul Benson to find out everything you need to know before June 30th.  We discuss:  The most common mistakes people make at this time of year, and how to avoid themCatch up contributionsWhat property investors need to know How to maximise tax savings Super contributionsExplaining the stage three tax cuts  Concessional capsThe bring forward ruleChanges & updates that people need to be aware of before the financial year closes Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I've waded through the Federal Budget and made a summary of everything that will impact you. None of the noise, none of the nonsense, just the facts. Joined by program producer Genevieve Rule.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I speak to Jo Peck, author of the candid memoir, 'Suddenly Single at Sixty'. Not long after Jo's 60th birthday, her husband drops a bombshell—he’s leaving her for a (much) younger woman. Jo is shocked and heartbroken that the life she’d worked towards, has gone up in smoke. In this interview, Jo details the journey of personal growth which led to her rebuilding her life, making it clear that life does NOT end at 60.   Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, I chat to Peter "Grubby" Stubbs, radio veteran and a huge advocate for getting the most out of life. Together, we're looking at the biggest mistakes people make in the lead up to retirement, breaking down everything from when to start planning, finding your passions and why underestimating the value of work could result in retiring too early.  From the rookie errors to the nitty gritty financial stuff, this episode is packed with practical advice and insights that will help prevent you from making any of these common mistakes.  Also joining me is Jacki Ellis, CFA and Head of Retirement at Aware Super, proud sponsors of Prime Time.  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I chat to travel expert and industry insider Fiona Dalton for her top tips, tricks and secrets for travelling in our Prime Time. We discuss:  Why the definition of LUXURY travel is changing and becoming more accessibleThe PrimeTime 'Gap Year' The joys of cruising and group travelTips for cheap airfares, and the truth about frequent flyer pointsOff-peak and shoulder season travel  Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I chat to Dr Kerryn Phelps AM, one of Australia's most well-known GP's and engaging health communicators. She's spent her life educating people about health, BUT she's much than a doctor.  In this episode we discuss her new memoir, 'The Power of Balance' exploring the events and ideas that have inspired her to create change throughout her lifetime. From medicine, media, politics, advocacy and activism, Kerryn has led a remarkable life of changemaking in many domains. We discuss: How medicine and communication around ageing has changedWhy poor health in old age is NOT inevitableThe joys of writing a memoirMyth-busting supplementsYour gut biome, and the gut-brain axisThe mid-fifties exercise regimeHow to keep your brain youngPrescribing activities for purpose Follow us on social media and via email Get in touch with Bec here: Bec@primetimers.net You can find the podcast:  @Primetimepod on Instagram @Primetime_podcast on Facebook Sign up for the Primetimers Newsletter at www.primetimers.net  - Get our newsletter with detailed podcast notes sent directly to your inbox every week plus all our helpful articles and updates.  Or follow and learn more about Bec Wilson @becwilsonepic on Facebook @epicretirement on Instagram  Or read her syndicated column in Nine Newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) each week here Nearing retirement?  Join the Retirement Dreaming: Epic Retirement Facebook Group Sign up for the Epic Retirement weekly newsletter at epicretirement.net  Get Bec Wilson’s bestselling book How to Have an Epic Retirement to learn about the six pillars of an epic retirement as you approach and prepare for your future retirement years. Now available - order here Visit Bec’s website at epicretirement.com.au to learn more about her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.