In this episode of the Connect podcast, we chat with Chetan Ahuja, founder of ARI. Finance & Advisory, about his transition from the corporate banking world into entrepreneurship. Chetan shares the personal and professional lessons he’s learned along the way—from navigating risk and starting his own business, to becoming a solutions-based advisor focused on building trust and long-term client partnerships.

We explore how Chetan differentiates himself as a finance broker, why networking and referral relationships matter, and how understanding a wide range of loan types helps him deliver tailored finance solutions. If you're building a business in the finance space or simply want real-world insight into what makes great client relationships, this episode is for you.

What You'll Learn:

• How Chetan made the leap from banking to business ownership
• Why trust and genuine relationships drive client success
• The value of being a solutions-driven finance professional
• Advice for new and aspiring entrepreneurs

In this episode of the Connect podcast, Steven Franks, founder of Higher Purpose Accounting, shares his journey from a 25-year career in corporate finance to consulting for small businesses. Drawing on his extensive experience, Steven explores how business owners can gain clarity and confidence with their numbers, especially those operating in the NDIS sector or other purpose-driven fields.

Steven covers:

• The fundamentals of cash flow forecasting, why it matters all year and how to create a simple forecast
• Common financial challenges faced by SMEs and strategies to overcome them
• The growing influence of AI in accounting and how to use it responsibly
• The benefits of online courses for boosting financial literacy and empowering business owners
• Practical tips for reviewing expenses, uncovering hidden costs and improving profitability
• The importance of hands-on client engagement and building long-term financial partnerships

This episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you take control of your finances, prepare for end of financial year obligations and set your business up for sustained success.

In this episode of the Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Guy Weerarathne from Smart Wealth Financial Services to talk about the importance of personalised advice when it comes to finance, especially in the areas of home loans, refinancing, and SMSF lending.

Guy explains why his approach focuses on long-term relationships with clients rather than quick transactions. With access to over 35 lenders and a deep understanding of the full financial ecosystem, from business structures to superannuation and risk, Guy offers practical insight on how to make lending decisions that align with your personal goals.

We cover everything from first home buyer incentives to the complexities of SMSF loans and why working with a broker offers flexibility, credit protection, and strategic support that banks can’t match.

Key Takeaways:
• Finance is a huge part of everyday life
• There’s no one size fits all, every client is different
• You may be eligible to buy your first home with just a 5% deposit
• SMSF loans are complex and require specialised support
• Brokers have access to multiple lenders and protect your credit rating
• It’s not just about getting the loan, it’s about protecting your future

If you’re planning to buy your first home, refinance, or just want to better understand your loan options, this episode is packed with practical, real-world advice.