Talking Returns

About Talking Returns

It can be tricky making sense of the current economic and financial events happening across the world, and understanding how it might impact you and your way of life. Talking Returns delves into the important money conversations with meaning, without making your eyes glaze over! Whether you're managing a mortgage, building savings, investing, or simply trying to stay ahead of rising costs, Talking Returns is interesting, informative and entertaining. From everyday life maintenance, to the issues affecting small to medium size businesses... there's plenty to uncover on Talking Returns. Together, your hosts Ray Griffin and Anna Moulder ask "what in the finance is going on?" and in each episode, they try to make sense of it all, in real life terms. Anna is an award winning Australian broadcaster and Ray brings decades of economics, financial services and business experience - together they are Talking Returns. Welcome to Talking Returns - we can't wait to hear from you. Get in touch: hello@talkingreturns.com

Publisher

Anna Moulder & Ray Griffin

Category

business · business · business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Jun 2026

Latest episode

29 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Sept 2026

   Who do you TRUST with your money? (And is the world running out of it?)

   Welcome back, Returners! We've been busy - riding motorcycles (Ray), hosting events (Anna), drinking coffee (everyone)... lots to look forward to on today's ep of Talking Returns. This week's Dear Raymond comes from Natalie in Melbourne, a recent Returner who has been happily binge-listening her way through the show. (Thanks Nat!) She's asking something plenty of us have wondered but maybe never said out loud: How do you find the right financial adviser for you? Chatter including: Speed dating qualified fin advisors. What should you look for? What should you ask? What to know about fees and reporting? How do you know you've picked the right person (or not)? It's about trust, it's about money, and Ray has some thoughts. Then, pull out your globe... it's What in the World. Since we last caught up: America has put its interest rates up, the first rise there since 2023. Oil is stuck above US$100 a barrel as the Iran war drags on. Our own Reserve Bank (at time of recording) was about to decide on rates, and its recent comments had been preparing us for another rise (Anna will eat her hat* if they don't! *maybe) Ray and Anna chat on: Why the RBA has been unusually vocal lately, including Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser's 7.30 interview after his return from the US. Latest action from the US bond market (and why it matters far beyond 'Merica). Oil supply issues continue, fuel costs keep heading north (and not for the holidays). What a global slowdown could mean for our exports: resources, agriculture, education and tourism etc etc etc etc etc (all the etc's) The R-word. Is a recession coming, and can we talk about it without it becoming a self-fullfilling prophecy? Get in touch! We'd love to hear from you, our Returners. Send us your thoughts, musings, feedback, or your own Dear Raymond dilemma. 📧 hello@talkingreturns.com 🌐 talkingreturns.com 📸 Instagram: @talkingreturnspod 👍 Facebook: Talking Returns The Podcast Resources: ASIC's Financial Advisor's Register: https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/financial-services/financial-advice/financial-advisers-register The fine print: Everything in this episode is general information, NOT financial or investment advice for you (nor for your brother, your mother and your dog groomer too). Everyone's situation is different, so please talk to a qualified professional adviser before you act on anything you hear.

2. 

   7 Sept 2026

   We've gone international + Dear Raymond x 3: Hedged Investments? + Money stuff we wished we'd learnt at school + To retire or not to retire?

   Welcome back to Talking Returns! This week is chockas! The pod has well and truly gone international (well sort of!) We give a shout out to our wonderful overseas listeners - and read our first international correspondence! You might be surprised to hear who is tuning in... hello, CIA is that you?? First up, the bond market has been making headlines again. Markets have been anything but quiet since our last episode, so Ray breaks down what's been happening, why investors are paying attention, and what it all means in plain English. Then it's time for a triple dose of Dear Raymond. Our first question comes all the way from Ireland. Madge has been listening from overseas and wants to understand one of those financial terms that gets thrown around a lot: hedged investments. What are they, why do investors use them, and how can currency movements affect investment returns? (Hedge trimmers needed, or no?!) Next, listener Kate asks a question that seems to resonate with many of our Returners: Why aren't we taught more about money and how to manage it, during our schooling? From budgeting and saving, to emergency funds and superannuation, we touch on some of the financial lessons that many Australians feel they had to learn the hard way, and the money fundamentals every young person should understand as they begin earning and managing their own income. Finally, we tackle one of life's biggest financial questions: To retire or not to retire? 'Returner' Ange raises concerns many Australians share. With rising living costs, longer life expectancies, and uncertainty about the future, how can anyone confidently prepare financially for retirement? Ray shares some practical thinking around retirement planning, income needs, and the importance of balancing today's lifestyle with tomorrow's goals. Along the way, we also talk motorcycling, attempt Irish accents, candid photos and much more! Resources: MoneySmart Retirement Calculator: https://moneysmart.gov.au We'd Love to Hear From You! Say 'bonjour' or 'aloha'! Let us know where you're tuning in from - in Australia or anywhere in the world - we'd love to get a note from you. Do you have something you'd like to get our read on for Dear Raymond? Send it through to: 📧 hello@talkingreturns.com Or connect with us online: 🌐 talkingreturns.com 📱 @talkingreturnspod on Insta!

3. 

   27 Aug 2026

   Bond, Government Bonds + Avoiding Deepfake Investments.

   G'day - good to have you along for this ep of Talking Returns. Not sure if you'll hear it, but it seems our mics were on strike this week - without us knowing until post edit, of course - hopefully you can listen past it and this ep. finds you in better form than our tech! 'Bond, Government Bonds' is the title we couldn't resist! As we consider What In The World? this ep, we learn about an unusual move recently from the United States Government, selling one foreign currency to buy another. From euro to yen - what does it mean? Why are bond markets paying attention? And what signals does government send to global investors through the bond market? Deepfake Investments - ASIC has issued a warning that should make every potential investor stop and think. Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to create entire, deep fake, online ecosystems designed to look legitimate. The old rules of due diligence may no longer be enough! Ray Griffin and Anna Moulder talk on ASIC's concerns, explore the changing scam landscape, and ponder how do we know what's real when it comes to investing your money? (spoiler speak to a professional!) Other stuff - We mourn the incredible Dolly Parton, hear Ray recite the NATO alphabet... and plenty more! Get In Touch We love hearing from our Returners. 📧 hello@talkingreturns.com 🌐 talkingreturns.com 📸 Instagram: @talkingreturnspod Many happy returns!!! Resource - The National Anti-Scam Centre recommends three simple steps: ✅ Stop before sharing money or personal information. ✅ Check who you're dealing with using contact details you source yourself. ✅ Protect yourself and others by reporting scams. Before investing, ASIC recommends verifying Australian Financial Services Licence details directly via 'ASIC's professional registers' and checking the 'Moneysmart Investor Alert List' for suspected scam operators. Google it! (I know, the irony!) DISCLAIMER - Just remember, these conversations on Talking Returns are General Information, it’s NOT financial advice. You can access advice which is tailored for your specific needs - as well as consumer protections - by consulting with a qualified professional to discuss your financial needs.

4. 

   13 Aug 2026

   The Great AI Gamble: Can the numbers stack up?

   Billions of dollars are flowing into AI. Some of the world's biggest companies are betting on it. Investors are scrambling to get a seat at the table. But here's a question: what if they're wrong? The AI Boom is being compared to some of the biggest technological shifts in history, but it's also raising plenty of questions. Is this a genuine productivity revolution? A once-in-a-century investment opportunity? Or are expectations running ahead of reality? In this special episode of Talking Returns, Anna Moulder and Ray Griffin cut through the headlines to explore what's really happening behind the global AI race. Who's funding it? Who stands to make the most money? And with eye-watering amounts of capital being poured into AI infrastructure, data centres and technology development, just how fragile is the whole ecosystem? (And could it collapse?) Ray explains why some market observers are drawing parallels with previous investment booms, why a future market "rationalisation" may be inevitable, and what history tells us about periods of rapid technological change. Together, Anna and Ray delve into: Why AI has become the hottest investment story in the world Who's backing the industry and where the money is coming from Whether today's AI valuations can be justified The risks investors are watching closely Why some companies will thrive while others won't survive What everyday Australians should pay attention to as the technology continues to evolve As always, we're not here to predict the future. We're here to make sense of the forces shaping it. And while AI might be able to write an email, generate an image or answer your burning questions... we're still not convinced AI can replace a good conversation. You tell us? We'd love to hear from you. 🌐 talkingreturns.com 📧 hello@talkingreturns.com (mailto:hello@talkingreturns.com) 📘 Facebook: Talking Returns - The Podcast 📸 Instagram: @talkingreturnspod Many Happy Returns. DISCLAIMER: 'Talking Returns: The Podcast' is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. It does not - and cannot - consider your individual objectives, financial circumstances or needs, and you should not rely on it to make financial decisions. By consulting with a qualified professional adviser, you will be able to obtain advice that’s been prepared for your specific needs and circumstances and, in doing so, you will have a range of consumer protections available to you. You can read more on finding a qualified professional via the Financial Advisers Register on the ASIC website: https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/financial-services/financial-advice/financial-advisers-register

5. 

   5 Aug 2026

   Pet$ are BIG business! + Self Managed Super Funds (are they right for you?) + Who are the RBA?

   Welcome back to Talking Returns! Our unexpected four-legged guest from last ep inspired one of our key discussions. After a surprise appearance from Anna's dog during recording, we take a closer look at Australia's booming pet industry and uncover just how much pet ownership contributes to the economy. In this episode, Anna and Ray discuss: 🐾 Points of Interest: The Business of Pets Australia's love affair with pets is big business. With the pet industry generating an estimated $33 billion annually, we explore what sits behind the numbers, from pet food and veterinary care through to luxury accessories, grooming, insurance and premium services. We also examine: How COVID influenced pet ownership trends The rise of online pet shopping and e-commerce Why convenience is changing consumer behaviour The importance of supporting local businesses and independent retailers You may be surprised by just how significant the pet economy has become. 📉 Consumer Sentiment and the RBA As Australia awaits the next Reserve Bank of Australia interest rate decision, we unpack what influences these highly anticipated meetings. Ray explains: Who sits around the RBA boardroom table What economic indicators are being closely watched How consumer sentiment influences decision-making Which sectors of the community have the most at stake Whether lobbying plays any role in the decision making process around rates And of course, Ray shares his thoughts on where rates might be heading next. 📬 Dear Raymond This week's question comes from Peter in Newcastle: "When does it make sense to set up a Self Managed Super Fund?" Ray breaks down: What a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is How it differs from traditional super funds Who typically benefits from having one The responsibilities and obligations involved When an SMSF may, or may not, be the right choice If you've ever wondered whether managing your own super is worth considering, this segment is for you. Have a question for 'Dear Raymond'? Send it through and it could feature in a future episode! Stay In touch! We'd love to hear from you. 📧 hello@talkingreturns.com Follow Talking Returns online: Website: www.talkingreturns.com Instagram @talkingreturnspod Facebook Talking Returns The Podcast Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. Consider seeking professional advice tailored to your individual circumstances and needs.

6. 

   26 Jul 2026

   Investing for your kids + Are we "all in this together" when it comes to tax? PLUS: the SpaceX plummet

   We kick off the ep. with some feedback around something Ray said a couple of eps ago. It was sparked by our chat on government budgets, who pays what tax, and the idea that "we're all in this together". Is economic division inevitable when we're taxed differently and some groups appear to receive greater advantages than others? It's a challenging question and one we're keen to explore. Enter stage left, our brand-new segment 'Points of Interest', where we unpack the stories making waves in markets and finance. This week we check back in on the much-hyped SpaceX shares and their recent plummet back to earth (metaphorical). Was this predictable? What can investors learn when excitement and valuations collide? Ray shares his perspective on what happens when market enthusiasm meets reality. Investing for your kids. Hello Jill! She got in touch and was keen to know where/how to start investing for her son's future. While we don't provide financial advice, Anna and Ray discuss some of the factors parents may want to consider when trying to build long-term wealth for your children and why time can be one of the most important things to consider. Other bits to look forward to: Random chatter about movies, winter slowly coming to end (hello sunshine!) AND an excitable doggo takes over the studio... classic and professional! Thanks for the listen! Give us a follow/rating - we'd love you to be a Returner. Check us out on the socials: Insta: @talkingreturnspod Web: www.talkingreturns.com DISCLAIMER: Please remember, these conversations captured here on Talking Returns are general information, this is NOT financial advice. You can access advice which is tailored for your specific needs (including consumer protections) by consulting with a qualified professional to discuss your financial needs.

7. 

   16 Jul 2026

   The Boomer Economy, Superannuation and the Future of Spending

   Welcome to the official soft launch of Talking Returns and Happy New Financial Year! Strap in, she's epic! In this ep, Anna and Ray celebrate the official soft launch. Talking Returns is out there and thus far, it's been a cool first chapter of the pod. Dear Raymond takes on a cool listener question - BTW hello to Martin in Far North Queensland Martin's got a bit going on as he straddles his next life stage, and wants to know at what point should he consider the investment of using an accountant, instead of trying to do it himself. What in the World? With no end in sight in the Iran/US war sitch, the International Monetary Fund has raised concerns around global fuel/oil stocks - she's real low. What could this mean for Australia, fuel prices, our economy and the cost of doing business? You can read IMF blog on Oil buffers low: https://www.imf.org/en/blogs/articles/2026/07/15/the-oil-market-absorbed-the-war-shock-but-buffers-are-running-low Diaries from the Bottom Line: In our last episode, you completed a SWOT analysis. Now what? We discuss practical next steps - how do you turn your SWOT into beneficial actions. Griffinomics: Episode One - yep, the first in our new segment kicks off with a look at the economic impact of the Baby Boomers. It's the Boomer Effect - is this the generation behind much of Australia's consumption? From grey nomad travel, and caravan tourism to superannuation spending, retirement income and the future of government policy, we explore: How boomers continue to influence Australia's economy. The spending power behind the boomers AND What happens as Australia's largest generation ages and that spending drops away? We Want to Hear From You! We're building a community of Returners and we'd love your feedback, questions and ideas for future episodes. Email: hello@talkingreturns.com - drop us a line and let us know what's on your mind, what you're experiencing... Instagram: @talkingreturnspod Web: www.talkingreturns.com Thanks for listening to Talking Returns. If you enjoyed the episode, share it with someone who loves making sense of money, business and the economy with a side of sense! A quick reminder: Talking Returns is information only. Our conversations about money and economic topics do not constitute professional advice, and you should not make any financial decisions based on this discussion. Your financial journey is personal, and it’s essential you seek professional guidance that’s designed for you, and is delivered to you by a licensed advisor.

8. 

   14 Jul 2026

   The Triple Squeeze: RBA rate rise, a fed budget + reality is biting for small biz

   *Quick note: we recorded this episode a few weeks before publication, however the world has a habit of moving on. So if you're listening weeks, months or years later, some parts may be showing their age - a bit like that vintage cheddar that's become even more wafty than intended. It's been a big couple of months in Australian money news. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) lifted interest rates again (with more on the horizon), inflation remains front and centre, and it's been Federal Budget season in Canberra. But what does all of that actually mean for everyday Australians, business owners and households trying to make sense of the headlines? In this episode of Talking Returns, Anna and Ray unpack the latest rate rise, explore what inflation really is (and ponder are we part of the problem). They discuss the sometimes/often-complicated relationship between government spending, tax cuts and the Reserve Bank's efforts to keep inflation under control. They take a closer look at federal budgets - how do they work, who creates it, when do governments deliver them, and the politics that often sit behind the numbers. Plus, our fabbo business segment: Diaries from the Bottom Line - where we talk about the real issues affecting small and medium-sized businesses across Australia. In this week's edition, a message from the ATO sparks a discussion about business survival, responsibilities, and one big question: is there really such a thing as a silver bullet for business success? In this episode: With the RBA increasing interest rates again - who is impacted? Spoiler = everyone! We discuss why/how. Inflation - are we becoming overly too friendly? The push and pull between rate rises and government tax cuts. Sheesh, overwhelm anyone? AND The Federal Budget 101: who creates it, how it works and how fickle can they be? Capital Gains Tax - lots of folks are worried for the changes... what's the go here? In our small biz segment Diaries from the Bottom Line, we check in on: The realities of running a business when conditions are tough (like they are now for so many) Business "responsibilities" that every owner should understand - the ATO sent us a friendly message! We'll share it with you. Everyone in business should do a SWOT Analysis - what is it? We start one together! In hot goss - Ray blushes off the back of some feedback around his ability to remember intricate details from long, long, long ago. Ray reveals why he's kept track of major financial events and economic moments without notes (and it's not what you expect). We love hearing from you! The feedback so far has been fantastic, and we genuinely appreciate the ideas, suggestions and encouragement you've shared. You can reach us at: hello@talkingreturns.com Thanks for listening, and thanks for being part of Talking Returns. Resource: Shocking (and might appear a bit boring, but no! Check out the Australian Taxation Office website, it's handy if you're looking for practical information about tax, super or running a business. It's packed with free resources and guidance. ato.gov.au DISCLAMER: Talking Returns is a podcast centring around financial and economic topics. We’re not giving you financial advice, only a licensed professional can do this, after you tell them about your situation. A licensed professional adviser ensures you have a range of protections including access to a complaints service, as well as mandatory indemnity insurance.

9. 

   14 Jul 2026

   The Truth About Disclaimers (and why we need them): Talking Returns Explainer

   In episode one, Anna and Ray were keen to call out the elephant in the room - disclaimers! You'll hear them throughout the podcast and see them on the website (talkingreturns.com). It's important for everyone here in the Talking Returns community to know this little pod isn't a place for personalised financial advice - in fact, it's not advice at all, simply a place for conversations around topics and issues impacting life day to day, with common themes of money, investing, finance and business. You can refer to this Talking Returns Disclaimer Explainer (see what we did there?) anytime, without listening to the whole first episode. We'll refer to it every now and then... so here she is, evergreen, as the first in what we hope will be many explainer eps to come. And before we forget... This information is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. It does not - and cannot - consider your individual objectives, financial circumstances or needs, and you should not rely on it to make financial decisions. By consulting with a qualified professional adviser, you'll be able to obtain advice that’s been prepared for your specific needs and circumstances and in doing so, will have a range of consumer protections available to you (such as access to a complaints service and mandatory indemnity insurance).

10. 

    27 Jun 2026

    Finfluencers (and the red flags to be aware of) + How war shakes confidence and impacts small business

    Welcome back to Talking Returns. This week, we tackle some pretty interesting stuff - including handy resources spoken about in the episode. Finfluencers are under the microscope. ASIC are cracking down on influencers who produce and publish finance and investment style content. They are called 'Finfluencers'. We talk about the red flags to look out for when it comes to content in the finance world, and what you should be aware of when consuming this content. Handy Resources: ASIC Financial Advisor Register (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) - Find an authorised, registered and relevant financial advisor on ASIC's register, check they have qualifications and appropriate employment history to service you. https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/financial-services/financial-advice/financial-advisers-register/ ASIC Banned and Disqualified Register: Make sure your advisor is not banned or disqualified: https://www.asic.gov.au/online-services/search-asic-registers/banned-and-disqualified-registers/ FAAA Find a Planner (Financial Advice Association Australia): Find a Certified Financial Planner who is qualified to service you and can support your needs. https://faaa.au/find-a-planner Our brand new segment 'Diaries from the Bottom Line' tackles the issue of confidence and how it can be shaken by the instability happening in the world. 'Dear Raymond' returns - this week Rob is keen to have those first important conversations about money with their partner, ahead of moving in together. Ray encourages a sit down at the kitchen bench, to get on the same page. What to do if you feel you need extra support in facilitating those conversations. Money Smart Resources: How to do a budget: https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/how-to-do-a-budget Budget planner tool: https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/budget-planner Simple Money Manager tool: https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/simple-money-manager The Important Disclaimer: Talking Returns is a podcast and is general information only. It does not constitute professional advice, and you should not make any financial decisions based on our conversations here. The important thing to remember is your financial journey is personal, and it’s essential you seek professional guidance from your own licensed advisor before taking any action. A licensed advisor will be able to provide you with specific guidance and by doing so, you will have access to a range of consumer protections including advice from someone who has the proper educational qualifications, someone who is operating with ethical standards, as well as formal complaints resolution benefits.

11. 

    27 Jun 2026

    Investing: the questions to ask + The economics of EVs

    Welcome back to Talking Returns. Today, we bring you our first segment of ‘Dear Raymond’ (a chance to hear from you around what you’re pondering in the realm of money matters). Excitingly, we hear from real life human Sophie - Sophie is keen to start investing but wants to understand where to start - from ETF's to apps... we talk about what to consider before you begin your investing journey. Topics covered: What is an ETF (not to be mistaken for EFTpos) Why have a contingency fund? Why do whitegoods seem to die all at the same time? Investment markets - a bit about how they work. The questions to ask yourself or be asked by your licensed/qualified advisor before you make decisions. Scam risks. When to get professional advice, what a positive professional advisor/client relationship feels like, and how to find a qualified advisor. 'What in the World' - the current geo-political climate has brought plenty of uncertainty, we talk about the impacts that uncertainty brings the world financially. And we acknowledge how thankful we are to be safe and able to have these conversations, given there are people, communities, countries at war and living in conflict. EVs - the economics of the electric vehicle movement. Fuel prices spiked due to the Iran war, government's are considering whether or not to continue to incentivising people to get into electric vehicles... we uncover how supply and demand will impact the future of EVs. Get in touch - we would love to hear from you, to hear what you're pondering, experiencing - we'd love to hear from you! hello@talkingreturns.com Many Happy Returns! The Disclaimer: this podcast is information only. It does not constitute professional advice, and you should not make any financial decisions based on our conversations here. The important thing to remember is your financial journey is personal, and it’s essential you seek professional guidance from your own licensed advisor before taking any action. A licensed advisor will be able to provide you with specific guidance and by doing so, you will have access to a range of consumer protections including advice from someone who has the proper educational qualifications, someone who is operating with ethical standards, as well as formal complaints resolution benefits.

12. 

    27 Jun 2026

    Welcome to Talking Returns: The unmissable first episode!

    Welcome to Episode 1 on Talking Returns. On this ep: Meet Anna and Ray. What's this podcast about? You'll get to know more about the podcast itself - it's a place to come and chat about what’s happening in the world around us, and how it impacts our financial existence. Somewhere to learn more about topics that could ordinarily feel daunting or dull - economics, finance etc. Why the disclaimers? You'll hear them commonly on this podcast, and no doubt in other pods playing in the finance space - but why are they important? We bring you the non-boring break down! Some cracking segments to look forward to, including: 'What in the world?' where we take the temp on the world climate and how it impacts life, and how we live it. ‘Dear Raymond’ is a chance to hear from you around what you’re pondering in the realm of money matters. 'Points of Interest' tackles interest rates and others points of interest - ha! 'Griffinomics' is economics under the lens of daily life... and 'Diaries from the Bottom Line' where we talk about issues impacting small to medium business (large biz also welcome, you big show off!). Get in touch - We'd love to hear from you, around what you’re pondering, particularly when it comes to money, your experiences in business, how you're tracking along right now when it comes to your finances or investments… The world is in a pretty wild state, so it can be good to connect at times of uncertainty. Whilst we don't give advice (and legally we're not allowed to) we can certainly talk on topics you want to hear more about. Get in touch! hello@talkingreturns.com (mailto:hello@talkingreturns.com.au) We'd also love your feedback on the podcast. What works, what could we do differently. All constructive feedback welcome. hello@talkingreturns.com (mailto:hello@talkingreturns.com.au) Catch you next time, on Talking Returns. Our Disclaimer: this podcast is information only. It does not constitute professional advice, and you should not make any financial decisions based on our conversations here. The important thing to remember is your financial journey is personal, and it’s essential you seek professional guidance from your own licensed advisor before taking any action. A licensed advisor will be able to provide you with specific guidance and by doing so, you will have access to a range of consumer protections including advice from someone who has the proper educational qualifications, someone who is operating with ethical standards, as well as formal complaints resolution benefits.

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.