Financial independence is still achievable but most people are focusing on the wrong lever

Mitchel Sneddon sits down with Hayden Smith, co-founder of Pearler, to unpack whether FIRE is still achievable and what actually drives financial independence today. The conversation moves beyond theory into the real levers — spending, income, behaviour and simple ETF investing — and reframes investing as a tool, not the solution. Together they discuss: – FIRE remains achievable, but outcomes are driven by income, spending and family choices, not markets alone – Cutting spending is still the fastest and most controllable lever – A simple rule of thumb that anyone can start with – Many investors stall due to analysis paralysis on ETFs, when early decisions have minimal long-term impact – Starting small builds engagement and accelerates understanding – Growth vs income portfolios are shaped by tax position and psychology, not just returns or theory – Investing is not the solution — earning more or spending less drives wealth, with investing acting as a catalyst Resources for this episode Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback!

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Financial independence is still achievable but most people are focusing on the wrong lever is an episode from Australian Finance Podcast by Rask.

This episode is 37:54 long.

This episode was published on Apr 6, 2026.

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