Is FIRE still possible in 2026? Ft. Dave Gow

Is FIRE still possible in 2026? Ft. Dave Gow

Author: Rask February 1, 2026 Duration: 58:53
In this Australian Finance Podcast episode, Owen Rask is joined by Dave Gow from Strong Money Australia for a deep, honest conversation about the future of FIRE — and whether financial independence is still achievable in 2026. Is FIRE still achievable in Australia in 2026? Why FIRE feels harder now — and why it’s not impossible How Dave would rebuild financial independence from $0 today The role of income: penalty rates, night shifts and FIFO work Why earning more matters more than saving harder Property vs shares in a modern FIRE strategy When leverage helps — and when it delays freedom Why asset choice matters after you stop working How low-yield property portfolios trap people in work The emotional fear of stepping back from a career Why people keep moving the goalposts after reaching FI Relentless saver syndrome and delayed gratification burnout The ego behind assets and net worth milestones Why “enough” is psychologically harder than getting rich How to create an anti-anxiety financial plan Semi-retirement as a risk-management strategy How flexibility and part-time work protect your portfolio Designing a freedom-focused lifestyle, not just retirement Finding meaning and purpose beyond full-time work Why time — not money — is the real asset Learning how to actually enjoy your wealth Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit – https://bit.ly/Pearler Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith – https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith View Betashares full range of funds – https://bit.ly/beta-25Rask resources Explore all Rask services – https://bit.ly/R-services Learn about Rask Financial Planning – https://bit.ly/R-plan Start investing with Rask – https://bit.ly/R-invest Access Show Notes – https://bit.ly/R-notes Ask a question – just select the Finance Podcast – https://bit.ly/R-quest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs before acting on it.If you’re unsure, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG) – https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the financial landscape can feel overwhelming, but Australian Finance Podcast cuts through the noise with grounded, practical advice tailored for life in Australia. Hosted by Owen Rask, the Chief Investment Officer, and Gemma Mitchell, a Senior Financial Adviser, conversations on this podcast feel less like a lecture and more like a direct chat with experts who genuinely want you to succeed. Each episode is built around actionable strategies-whether it's about restructuring debt, understanding investment vehicles, or tax efficiency-that you can apply immediately, not just abstract theories. The focus is on building the confidence to make informed decisions with your money, aiming for a future where your finances support the life you want to live, rather than dictating it. For those just beginning their journey, the hosts suggest diving into their foundational "Starter Pack" series to build a solid base of knowledge. This isn't about get-rich-quick schemes; it's a steady, educational companion for developing lasting financial health. Tune in for a straightforward blend of market insights, personal finance management, and long-term wealth-building principles, all delivered with a clear Australian context. The Australian Finance Podcast from Rask is that reliable resource for turning financial complexity into manageable, actionable steps.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Australian Finance Podcast
Podcast Episodes
How to retire on $3,000 per week - the property playbook [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:46
In this episode, host Gemma Mitchell is joined by Ben Kingsley, one of Australia’s leading property investment advisers, founder of Empower Wealth, and Chair of the Property Investors Council of Australia (PICA). Ben, al…
Your money reset, part 2: Super, property, and the freedom to choose [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:31
In this bonus episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, host Gemma Mitchell returns with part two of The Money Reset 2 part series. If you’re ready to take your financial reset to the next level, this bite-sized episode…
Australian unicorns: $1 billion startups you've never heard of [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:41
In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with Wenee Yap and Thomas Derricott, co-authors of the new book “Riding the Unicorn: The Startup Guide You'll Want to Read” In a deeply insightful an…
No caps, no LMI, no waitlist — the new 5% deposit rules explained [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:36
In this short Wednesday bonus episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, hosts Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask unpack the government’s newly expanded 5% Deposit Scheme — what it means for first home buyers, who’s eligible,…
6 US stocks + 1 ETF we L-O-V-E right now ft Hugh Lam [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:27
In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Hugh Lam from Betashares each bring 3 of their favourite US stocks to the table — and finish off with an ETF that gives you exposure to all of them. They u…
HELP debt changes, company shares & first home hacks – Q&A [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:40
20% HELP debt reduction, new superannuation rules, salary sacrificing for company shares — this week’s Q&A is packed with hot topics and practical money tips. In this Friday episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, you…
Your Money Reset: How to Boost Net Worth, Self Worth & Income [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:08
In this bonus episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, host Gemma Mitchell kicks off a two-part mini-series based on her new book, The Money Reset. If you’ve been thinking about a fresh start with your finances, especi…