Raising The Curve

We asked for your financial horror stories, and wow, did you deliver. In this episode, we read (and listen to) real money mistakes from our community, from missed investing wins to term-deposit disasters, stock-picking heartbreaks, property nightmares and everything in between. We break down what went wrong, what we can all learn from it, and why these stories will genuinely make you better with money. Huge thank you to everyone who sent theirs in. And while you're here, drop your thoughts (or your own money mishaps) in the comments, we read them all.

This week's Curve Weekly starts with Soph's financial dilemma of the month - a perfect storm of overspending, £5 left in the bank, and a 4% phone battery in Mayfair. Then, just as we got rolling, Vic's mic cut out (classic), so yes… this is take two. Once the tech drama settled, Vic breaks down why the market is down 2%, what's spooking investors, and how the AI bubble ties into it. We also dive into that viral “Did women ruin the workplace?” headline and unpack why the real problem is a system that was never built for women to thrive. Then it's onto Trump threatening to sue the BBC for $1B - what happened, why it matters, and why the media world is slightly sweating. And finally, we look at what Brits are really using ChatGPT for… and let's just say the answer might surprise you.WTF does that mean? A guide to all the jargony bits:Market Drop – When the stock market has a tiny sulk.AI Bubble – When AI stocks get too hyped.Diversification – Don't put all your money eggs in one basket.S&P 500 – The 500 biggest US companies in one group.CapEx – Big-ticket spending by companies.Government Shutdown – When the US government can't agree and… stops.The Fed – The US interest-rate boss.Defamation – Saying something untrue and getting sued for it.Algorithm – The puppet master deciding what you see online.50:30:20 Rule – A simple budget split: needs, wants, investing.Credits:Hosts: Victoria Harris & Sophie HallwrightProducer & Editor: Emily RigbySocial & Digital Manager: Lucy Munro⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

If AI still feels like a scary robot in the corner, this chat will calm your nerves and fire up your curiosity. Natalie Piucco (Google's applied-AI whiz) breaks down where AI is really headed - think helpful life assistant that sorts your calendar, shopping and bills - and why that future could be worth backing with your pounds (or dollars). We cover simple ways to spot opportunities in everyday life (what are you and your mates actually using?), how to dip a toe in with an ETF before picking any “spicy” single stocks, and Nat's golden rule: confidence comes after you start, not before. TL;DR: pop on your “investor glasses,” chuck in a tenner, and let AI's next chapter work for you.

Warren Buffett (aka the GOAT of investing) is sitting on a jaw-dropping $382 billion in cash. Yep, the man who literally buys companies is taking a breather, and Vic breaks down what that means for the rest of us (hint: things might be a tad overpriced). We also chat about bitcoin's big dip (Soph's thrilled), why AMD's results weren't enough to keep investors happy, and how gold's having its main-character moment again. Plus, we celebrate the UK finally adding financial literacy to the school curriculum (goodbye, recorder lessons), unpack the mass Kiwi move to Australia, and somehow veer into royal neighbours, countryside dreams, and near-misses with Lorde.WTF does that mean? A guide to all the jargony bits:Bear Market – When stocks fall and vibes are low. Bull Market – When prices rise and everyone's buzzing. Valuation – What a company thinks it's worth.Cash Pile – A giant stack of money waiting for action.Berkshire Hathaway – Warren Buffett's money empire.Revenue Growth – When sales go up. Yay, more money!Correction – A market “oops” before it (hopefully) recovers.Defensive Stocks – Boring-but-reliable companies.Safe Haven – Where nervous investors hide their cash (hi, gold).Bitcoin – The drama queen of digital money.Crypto – Internet money. Risky but exciting.IPO – A company's stock market debut.Credits:Hosts: Victoria Harris & Sophie HallwrightProducer & Editor: Emily RigbySocial & Digital Manager: Lucy Munro⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

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Vic brings ‘The Soul of Money' to the couch and suddenly our bank statements feel like diaries we maybe… wouldn't show our mums. We unpack the myth of ‘never enough,' swap abundance for sufficiency, and explore money as a flow (sometimes a waterfall, sometimes a dribbly tap) that carries our intentions - whether that's supporting local, giving with purpose, or voting with our wallets. Expect chat on financial integrity, values-based spending & donating, and why hoarding can dam your energy. Key takeaways: name your ‘enough,' let money move with palms-up energy, and ask if each spend reflects who you are. Listen in, tell us your thoughts where you're tuned in, and drop your next book recs - we're ready for round two.

Ever walked into a pay rise conversation, only to feel your brain switch off and your confidence evaporate faster than your lunch break? You're not alone. In this episode, Sophie sits down with salary negotiation powerhouse Meggie Palmer to unpack how to prep, practise, and push through those oh-so-awkward money chats. From knowing your “wish, want, walk” numbers, to mastering the art of silence, Meggie shares practical scripts, confidence tricks, and even a “fake tunnel drop-out” hack you'll want to keep in your back pocket. We also tackle why women are conditioned to feel icky about asking for more, and how to rewire that mindset. Spoiler: you're adding value - time to own it.PepTalkHer: https://www.peptalkher.com/The original episode with Meggie: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ukKYVeZDXfaBz20qal0Gv?si=Edty--14SLuXqRIWxgkkhQWant the step-by-step guide we put together with Lexus on how to actually afford a big-ticket item (like a car that makes you feel as sleek as you look)? ⁠Grab the free PDF ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

Sometimes the biggest lessons arrive completely out of the blue. In this episode, we sit down with 26-year-old Lily Foote, who shares the health scare that made her realise just how important health insurance really is. We talk through what it's like to get an unexpected diagnosis, the overwhelm that comes with medical jargon, and how ADHD and anxiety can make the whole process even harder to navigate. Lily opens up about the financial relief of being covered, the reality of recovery (two weeks horizontal, not ideal for a self-confessed non-chiller), and the mindset shifts that came with it all. We also dive into why admin feels like climbing a mountain, how to make health insurance less intimidating, and that tricky balance between living in the moment and planning for the future. It's an important conversation that's honest, supportive, and might just be the nudge you need to finally tick “sort health insurance” off your list.The Income Protection Episode mentioned in this podcast: A guide to adulting - Getting your Plan B sorted before it's too late What we share on this podcast reflects our own views and experiences, and not the views of Southern Cross Health Insurance. This is not intended to be a recommendation or financial advice. If you're interested in getting health insurance, please seek appropriate advice from a qualified professional to suit your circumstances.⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

Know a small human? Cool - this one's for you. Whether you're a parent, godparent, auntie, uncle, or just someone who buys cute baby outfits on impulse, this episode is all about giving the kids in your life a serious financial head start (spoiler: it's not another teddy bear). In this highly demanded episode, we unpack the power of investing for children - how even small, regular amounts can grow into life-changing money thanks to the magic of time and compound interest. We also dive into the when, how, and what to invest in, plus genius ways to teach kids the value of money without sounding like a boring textbook. Because nothing says “I love you” like an S&P 500 fund with their name on it.Link to the surveyWant the step-by-step guide we put together with Lexus on how to actually afford a big-ticket item (like a car that makes you feel as sleek as you look)? Grab the free PDF ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

In part two of our chat with property coach Peter West, Sophie walks us through the real, messy, and surprisingly empowering process of pulling off her first BRRR deal - and making $125K in five weeks. From dodging catfish listings and surviving auction-day adrenaline, to underspending on renos (yes, really) and using equity to go again, this episode is full of gold for anyone dreaming of getting on the ladder. There's talk of foam mattresses, flipping fails, rentvesting revelations, and one very smug WhatsApp group called ‘Property Moguls'.Keen to work with Pete or learn more about what he does? Fill in this quick form and we'll connect you: ⁠https://crtfumnrsp0.typeform.com/to/y5GyHMcLWe're proud to be partnering with BNZ, because no two journeys to home ownership are the same. BNZ's home loan experts are there to help you navigate the process with confidence - from search to signing.To learn more, head here

With Vic off the grid (literally) on a Greek island, Soph calls in some brilliant backup - enter first-time podcaster Sophie G, a financial whizz and all-round legend. The duo dives into the unexpected fallout (or lack thereof) from Trump's tariffs, why Ozempic-maker Novo Nordisk just lost billions (lol ouch), and what Denmark's retirement age hike says about your financial future. Oh, and there's also a juicy story about a prenup gone rogue (Simon wants how much for flights?!). Plus, we celebrate the Lionesses' win and the unstoppable rise of women's sport. GO THE GIRLS!⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

We weren't sure if we should release this episode. Some told us it wasn't appropriate, others said it was exactly the conversation we need right now. And honestly… both sides make a good point.In this wide-ranging chat with politician Chlöe Swarbrick, we dig into the uncomfortable stuff - dogmatism (we'll explain, don't worry), capitalism, inequality, power, and why politics often feels like an exhausting mess. Chlöe breaks down how the systems around us shape everything from the price of electricity to who gets heard (and who doesn't), and why staying out of politics doesn't mean politics stays out of your life.This episode doesn't have all the answers, but it will make you think - and probably text your group chat afterwards. If you've ever felt politically lost, financially frustrated, or just sick of the noise... this one's for you.Want the step-by-step guide we put together with Lexus on how to actually afford a big-ticket item (like a car that makes you feel as sleek as you look)? Grab the free PDF ⁠here⁠: https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=RkwjHW&g=Uvwei5⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

It's our last week UNEDITED (promise). Emily's back next week thank goodness. Please excuse any brain farts, or unusually long tangents in this one... The first 20 minutes are not your usual headlines. Soph shares a personal realisation that led her to book a very last-minute flight to Turkey, if you want to skip straight to the headlines, head to 20:00.This week in money news:

Today we are joined by the amazing Tegan Yorwarth - radio host, proud Māori wāhine, and lowkey money mastermind for our second instalment of The Property Podcast - in partnership with BNZ! In this conversation, we spoke to Tegan about how she bought her first house before 30 - while working in one of the most unstable industries out there. We chat about growing up with a scarcity mindset, the thrill (and trauma) of auctions, how she tricks herself into saving, and why she used to send her money to her mum to stop herself spending it (genius). Plus, we cover what it's like being a Māori woman navigating wealth-building, the pros and cons of dating a spender, and why true wealth is... sleeping in on a Monday, not buying a jet ski.We're proud to be partnering with BNZ, because no two journeys to home ownership are the same. BNZ's home loan experts are there to help you navigate the process with confidence - from search to signing. To learn more, head here  

This week on The Curve Weekly, we're doing things a little differently - no edits, no cuts, just the full unfiltered conversation. From Nvidia's mind-blowing $4 trillion milestone (yes, trillion) to Wimbledon's £53.5 million prize pool and the financial legacy of Venus Williams, we're unpacking all of this weeks money headlines. We're also diving into why interest rates are pausing, what Nutella's parent company is buying now, and how the cost of climate change is creeping up faster than you might think. If you've ever been curious as to what goes on behind the scenes, you'll enjoy this one.Want to check out the Honeybloom necklaces we mention in this podcast? Here is the link!⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

Welcome to our New York miniseries! Soph was in the states not too long ago and was lucky enough to sit down with the incredible Caitlyn Kumi, founder of Miss Empowher, Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, and an all-around powerhouse. Caitlyn opens up about growing up Ghanaian-American, dealing with wildly inappropriate career advice from men in suits which became the catalyst for building her now global community of confident, empowered women.They talk about the emotional side of money and how that stems into relationships, why confidence (not just credentials) can be your biggest asset, and the actual financial red flags to look out for when dating. From managing your finances to managing your mentors (yes, there's a whole strategy), Caitlyn shares - this episode is perfect for someone looking for career + money motivation. ________________Follow Caitlyn KumiInstagram TikToc Miss Empowher Buy her book________________Want the step-by-step guide we put together with Lexus on how to actually afford a big-ticket item (like a car that makes you feel as sleek as you look)? Grab the free PDF ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. You're welcome in advance.________________BePure is your go-to for immune health this winter. Whether you're already sniffling or just prepping to dodge the seasonal lurgy, check out their Immune Essentials Bundle: three hero products, delivered monthly, and 20% off exclusively for The Curve community. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grab the bundle here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (discount auto-applied, no faffing required).________________WTF Does That Mean? A Guide to All the Jargony BitsMentorSomeone you go to for guidance and advice based on their own experience.CoachGives you practical, step-by-step advice and feedback to help you level up specific skills.ConnectorThe friend with the Rolodex—makes intros, links you with helpful people, and opens doors.StrategizerHelps you map out your goals and figure out the best moves to get there.SponsorA powerful advocate who champions you behind closed doors, think: putting your name forward for opportunities.Financial InfidelityWhen someone hides or lies about money matters in a relationship, like secret spending or hidden debt. Big yikes.Waist BeadsTraditional accessories worn around the waist or hips, often used in West African cultures for confidence, femininity, and body awareness.High-Yield Savings AccountA savings account that earns more interest than your basic one—perfect for building up that emergency fund.Index Fund (e.g. S&P 500)A type of investment that tracks a broad group of companies. Less risky, more chill. Great for long-term investing.Emergency FundA stash of cash (usually 3–6 months of expenses) to cover unexpected life curveballs like job loss or surprise vet bills.Personal Finance is PersonalA running theme of this ep—aka there's no one-size-fits-all. Your money strategy should fit your life.________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

Vic flies solo today, covering a wide range of money and market moments. From Jeff Bezos's high-profile wedding (and the importance of prenups) to how women invest differently than men, there's plenty to unpack.Vic also breaks down what an IPO is, why Figma's filing is big news, and what it means for Adobe and the broader stock market. Plus, she touches on Australia's new financial year and generous superannuation changes, Tesla's slipping sales, Warren Buffett's latest $6 million donation, and how Glastonbury might have pulled in a massive £80 million. It's a fun, info-packed episode — no jargon, just clarity._______________________WTF Does That Mean? A Guide to All the Jargony BitsPrenup (Prenuptial Agreement): A legal contract signed before marriage that outlines how assets and finances will be handled in case of divorce.IPO (Initial Public Offering): The process where a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time.Superannuation (Super): A retirement savings scheme, especially prominent in Australia, where employers contribute to a fund on behalf of employees.Market Sentiment: The overall attitude of investors toward a particular security or the financial market as a whole.Dividend: A portion of a company's earnings paid to shareholders — not mentioned directly, but useful in investment discussions!________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

This is the first episode in our BRAND NEW property series in partnership with BNZ! Whether you're buying your first home, thinking about investing, or just trying to wrap your head around how the property market works - this monthly series is for you. We're kicking it off with our first episode and some very exciting news... Soph finally bought a house!

No full episode this week—but Vic and Soph are still popping in for a quick chat (and a tiny bit of chaos). With their Investing Bootcamp launching on June 30th, the duo is deep in prep mode, so they're keeping it light and casual in this short catch-up.Expect some very relatable investing reflections, a few laughs about workouts gone wrong, and a surprise cameo from Miso. If you've been meaning to start investing but keep putting it off, the Bootcamp is made for you. It's everything Vic and Soph have learned, simplified and glow-up'd for beginners.________________Investing BootcampIf you've been meaning to finally do something with your money and build confidence with investing, join us for our ⁠investing bootcamp⁠ that kicks off on the 23rd June! You'll learn:How to split your pay and manage your moneyThe foundations of investing (without the jargon)How to actually get started - and stay consistentYou'll get access to: Our brand new Money + Investing Course2x live sessions with VicA private community of new investorsTools + tips to grow a strong, diversified portfolio12 months access to The Investing Club⁠Click here to join⁠________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

This week, Vic and Soph are jumping from investing confidence to global headlines—and back again. They kick things off with a reminder about The Curve's beginner bootcamp (starting June 30!), perfect if you've been putting off learning how to invest.They also chat through the world's first-ever dad strike in the UK, rising tensions in the Middle East and what it means for oil prices and your portfolio, AMEX's new fee hike, Gen Z's love of credit cards, and Nintendo's latest boom.Plus: vintage fashion obsessions, podcast photo fails, and a few too many thoughts on thirst traps. ________________Investing BootcampIf you've been meaning to finally do something with your money and build confidence with investing, join us for our ⁠investing bootcamp⁠ that kicks off on the 23rd June! You'll learn:How to split your pay and manage your moneyThe foundations of investing (without the jargon)How to actually get started - and stay consistentYou'll get access to: Our brand new Money + Investing Course2x live sessions with VicA private community of new investorsTools + tips to grow a strong, diversified portfolio12 months access to The Investing Club⁠Click here to join⁠________________Raising the Curve: 114 - Work Life Balance And Working Out What Is Important________________WTF Does That Mean? A Guide to All the Jargony BitsInvesting BootcampA four-week course by The Curve for beginners to learn personal finance and investing, including live sessions and community access.Dad StrikeA UK protest where fathers are demanding more paid parental leave—currently only two weeks are offered.Middle East TensionsOngoing conflict affecting oil supply, leading to higher prices and market volatility.Global DiversificationInvesting across different countries to reduce risk, especially during geopolitical instability.AMEX (American Express)A premium credit card company that's recently increased its annual fees.Nintendo SurgeA major share price jump after the launch of Nintendo's new gaming console.Vintage FashionPre-loved clothing finds—Vic shares her new appreciation for it.Thirst TrapsPhotos meant to attract attention; Soph and Vic reflect on past photo shoot moments.________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

You've heard about them, you've nodded politely when someone mentioned them - but do you actually know what bonds are? And more importantly, should you have them in your investment portfolio? In this episode, we break down bonds in a way that finally makes sense. You'll learn how bonds work, who they're for, when they make sense, and what kind of returns you can expect - plus why the word “junk” in finance isn't as trashy as it sounds. Whether you're saving for a house, want something a bit more chill than shares, or are just curious if bonds are the grown-up move your money needs - this ep is for you. Spoiler: you might already own bonds without even knowing it.

From Dublin's cloudy charm to the bizarre world of Labubu dolls, Vic and Soph cover a lot this week. They kick off with travel debates (beach club vs. ruins), before diving into one of the most unexpected stock surges of the year - and how spotting a trend like Labubu could've made you 600% richer.Then it's into something more personal: IVF and egg freezing. Soph opens up about her own experience, while Vic breaks down why the fertility industry is booming and what the Monash embryo mistake means for investing in this space.They also touch on how feedback shapes the podcast, the evolving value of interviews, and that now-infamous “girls are fighting” comment. Plus, US politicians' suspicious stock moves, mega-CEO paydays, and a quick shoutout to the incredible Emily.This one's part chit-chat, part curveball headlines, and part financial deep-dive - with a side of egg freezing quiz in the show notes.________________If you've been meaning to finally do something with your money and build confidence with investing, join us for our investing bootcamp that kicks off on the 23rd June!You'll learn:How to split your pay and manage your moneyThe foundations of investing (without the jargon)How to actually get started - and stay consistentYou'll get access to: Our brand new Money + Investing Course2x live sessions with VicA private community of new investorsTools + tips to grow a strong, diversified portfolio12 months access to The Investing ClubClick here to join!________________WTF Does That Mean? A Guide to All the Jargony Bits________________LabubuA collectible toy character designed by a Hong Kong artist, made popular through blind-box unboxing culture. It's become a viral sensation, with some rare versions selling for thousands.Blind BoxA packaging style where the specific item inside isn't revealed until it's opened. Common in collectible toys and figures, often used to encourage repeat purchases.Pop MartA publicly listed Chinese company that owns and distributes Labubu and other collectible figures. It's behind the booming success of the Labubu trend.IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)A medical procedure used to help people conceive a child. Eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the body and then implanted into the uterus.Egg FreezingA fertility preservation method where a woman's eggs are extracted, frozen, and stored for future use.Insider TradingThe illegal practice of trading stocks or other securities based on material, non-public information—like confidential plans or upcoming announcements.SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)A U.S. government agency that regulates the securities markets and enforces laws against market manipulation and insider trading.ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund)A type of investment fund that's traded on stock exchanges, like a stock. It holds a collection of assets (e.g., stocks, bonds) and can track specific sectors or trends.S&P 500An index of the 500 largest publicly traded companies in the U.S., often used as a benchmark for the overall performance of the stock market.________________Egg Freezing Survey________________The Curve Investing Club Free Trial________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

What's the real cost of unpaid labour, emotional load, and being the ‘nice girl' in a relationship? In this fiercely eye-opening episode, author Melissa Browne blows the lid off the money myths holding women back. From the dangerous mindset of “it's not worth her going back to work” to why 7 out of 10 men manage long-term investments for control, this conversation is packed with jaw-dropping stats, empowering reframes, and financial red flags every woman needs to know. Melissa shares practical advice on retirement savings splitting, negotiating unpaid labour, protecting yourself before and during relationships, and the truth about why investing is never selfish. If you've ever felt uneasy talking money in your relationship, this episode will give you the clarity, tools, and confidence to change the game.

This week on Curve Weekly: political chaos, market meltdowns, and a Swiftie-sized power move. Vic and Soph unpack the billionaire breakup of Elon and Trump (EV shade, Twitter tantrums, and all), dive into what's next for Tesla, and chat about why space is suddenly the place to invest.They also get into the IPO buzz (hi, Virgin Australia and Wise), plus Taylor Swift's epic move to buy back her music — and what it taught them about contracts, control, and calling the shots.Finance meets pop culture, with zero snore-factor. Let's go.________________⁠Here is the link for the free investing workshop for beginners on June 16.⁠________________WTF Does That Mean? A Guide to All the Jargony Bits________________EV Subsidies – Govt discounts for buying electric cars. Bye subsidies = bye Tesla share price.IPO – A company's stock market debut. A financial coming-out party.Fintech – Money tech like Wise, Sharesies, and your phone's wallet.Master Rights – Who owns the actual song recording. Taylor wanted these.Publishing Rights – Who wrote the song. Think lyrics + melody.Private Equity – Big money buying stuff to resell for more.Stock Exchange – Where shares are bought + sold.S&P 500 – The 500 biggest US companies.Capital Markets – Fancy term for the world of investing.Scott Galloway – Bold, brainy biz guy. Says what we're all thinking.________________⁠⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

This one's for the mums - the ones juggling packed lunches, work meetings, and trying to remember when the last load of washing was switched. In this honest and thoughtful conversation, Amy Fraser shares her journey into motherhood (which did not go to plan), navigating single parenting, rebuilding her career, and the invisible labour so many women carry without question. We talk about the real cost of taking time out of the workforce, why your family is an asset, and how guilt seems to sneak into every corner of parenting. It's equal parts validating and practical - a reminder that if you're doing your best to hold it all together, you're not alone.Link to read Amy's blog.Want the step-by-step guide we put together with Lexus on how to actually afford a big-ticket item (like a car that makes you feel as sleek as you look)? Grab the free PDF here. You're welcome in advance.This episode is proudly sponsored by BePure - your go-to for immune health this winter. Whether you're already sniffling or just prepping to dodge the seasonal lurgy, check out their Immune Essentials Bundle: three hero products, delivered monthly, and 20% off exclusively for The Curve community. ⁠⁠Grab the bundle here⁠⁠ (discount auto-applied, no faffing required).⁠⁠Leave us a message on The Curve Hotline

New to investing? We've got you. Join our FREE beginner workshop on 16 June (8:30am UK / 7:30pm NZ) and finally figure out what a stock actually is. No jargon, no judgment - just the stuff you wish school had taught you. ⁠Sign up here⁠

New to investing? We've got you. Join our FREE beginner workshop on 16 June (8:30am UK / 7:30pm NZ) and finally figure out what a stock actually is. No jargon, no judgment - just the stuff you wish school had taught you. ⁠Sign up here⁠