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Demographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your future

Demographics Decoded - Unveiling the trends shaping your future

By: Simon Kuestenmacher and Michael Yardney
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 Join leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and wealth and property investment expert Michael Yardney as they share Australian demographic shifts, trend analysis and social change insights to help business decision makers, entrepreneurs, and investors make informed decisions. Each week, we bring you in-depth discussions about how demographics affects our future and actionable advice on demographic factors that influence property investment, business and industry and how to prepare for demographic and social changes in the next decade. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or investor, our podcast equips you with knowledge to stay ahead of the curve. In a rapidly changing world, empower your business and investment decisions with data-driven insights. By subscribing to Demographics Decoded, you gain access to: • Expert analysis from leading authorities in demography, economics and the future. • Insights into the trends that will impact your business and investments. • Strategies for leveraging demographic shifts to your advantage. https://DemographicsDecoded.com.au2024 Economics Personal Finance
Episodes
  • How to Get Older Without Getting Old - Rules for Ageing Well

    How to Get Older Without Getting Old - Rules for Ageing Well
    Dec 23 2025
    What does it actually mean to age well? We all know people who seem to get older but never old – they're curious, kind, and somehow more alive with each passing decade. And then there are others who retreat, complain, and shrink their world. Today we're decoding what it really takes to age well – mentally, physically, socially, and financially. We'll look at some wisdom from Roger Rosenblatt's witty book Rules for Ageing, and add Simon's demographic lens to see what the data says about how we can actually put this into practice. Our conversation also touches on demographic trends affecting aging in Australia, highlighting the importance of community and social connections for a fulfilling life as we grow older. Takeaways · Aging well means living with vitality, not just longevity. · Demographic trends show we are living longer, necessitating a focus on quality of life. · Emotional regulation improves with age, allowing for better self-acceptance. · Letting go of what others think can lead to a more fulfilling life. · Incremental changes are more sustainable than radical reinventions. · Humor is essential for coping with life's challenges. · Pursuing virtue is important, but perfection is not necessary. · Life is inherently unfair; acceptance is key to resilience. · Curiosity keeps the mind active and engaged throughout life. · Physical activity and social connections are crucial for healthy aging. Chapters 00:00 What it really means to age well in a world where we live much longer. 04:00 Emotional freedom: stop worrying what others think and let go of perfection.08:10 Evolving gradually, keeping humour and staying kind without self-righteousness. 12:10 Accepting the past, embracing unfairness and releasing old grudges. 16:10 Key habits of healthy aging: curiosity, learning, movement and social connection. 20:50 The demographic reality: Australia's rapidly growing elderly population and how society must adapt. Join Michael and Simon at Wealth Retreat 2026, where Australia's most ambitious investors and businesspeople gather to think bigger, invest smarter, and build intergenerational wealth. MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: http://www.wealthretreat.com.au/ This episode was inspred by Roger Rosenblatt's book Rules for Aging About Simon Kuestenmacher Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers. He ranks as one of the world's Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can't get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels. Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. https://www.tdgp.com.au/enquire About Michael Yardney Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders. While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia's leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation. Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation. Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.
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    35 mins
  • 8 Boomer Habits That Drive Younger Aussies Mad – And What It Says About Our Future

    8 Boomer Habits That Drive Younger Aussies Mad – And What It Says About Our Future
    Dec 16 2025
    Today we're having a bit of fun – but there's a serious insight behind it too We're going to be talking about "8 things Boomers refuse to stop doing that drive younger generations absolutely crazy." Now you've probably seen those memes and TikToks poking fun at Boomer habits – from insisting on paying with cash to overusing ellipses in text messages. But these quirks reveal something deeper about how different generations see the world – shaped by the times they grew up in. So whether you're a proud Boomer, a frustrated Millennial, or a Gen Z rolling your eyes – stick around. You might just see yourself reflected in this conversation Takeaways · Understanding generational differences is crucial for effective communication. · Boomers' attachment to cash stems from their upbringing during financial hardships. · Younger generations prefer texting for its convenience and control over time. · The ellipsis in texts can create misunderstandings between generations. · Physical records provide a sense of security for Boomers. · Job loyalty has shifted, with younger generations valuing flexibility. · Lifestyle choices, like avocado toast, reflect deeper financial struggles. · Boomers often view younger generations' work ethic with skepticism. · Nostalgia influences Boomers' consumer behavior, leading to hoarding. · Generational habits evolve but are rooted in historical contexts. Chapters 00:10 Why boomer habits formed and why younger generations react to them. 05:20 Cash, checks, phone calls and the generational communication divide. 10:40 Texting styles, ellipses, emojis and digital misunderstandings. 16:00 Physical media, paper records and shifting consumer preferences. 21:10 Work ethic, loyalty, job-hopping and changing economic realities. 26:30 What generational habits reveal about values, identity and ageing. About Simon Kuestenmacher Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers. He ranks as one of the world's Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can't get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels. Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. About Michael Yardney Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders. While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia's leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation. Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation. Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results. Join Michael and Simon at Wealth Retreat 2026, where Australia's most ambitious investors and businesspeople gather to think bigger, invest smarter, and build intergenerational wealth. MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: http://www.wealthretreat.com.au/ Here is the original article we based this podcast on. https://vegoutmag.com/lifestyle/gen-8-things-boomers-refuse-to-stop-doing-that-drive-younger-generations-absolutely-crazy/
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    30 mins
  • Is the Albanese Government About to Rob the Elderly in the Name of 'Fairness'

    Is the Albanese Government About to Rob the Elderly in the Name of 'Fairness'
    Dec 9 2025
    Imagine being told that after a lifetime of working hard, paying taxes, saving diligently, and raising a family, you've somehow become part of Australia's problem. That your success – owning a home, saving in superannuation, or simply living longer – is now evidence of "intergenerational unfairness." That's the message emerging from the Albanese government's latest policy buzzword – the so-called "intergenerational lens." But is this really about fairness… or about finding new ways to tax those who've worked, saved, and contributed for decades? In this episode of Demographics Decoded, leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and I unpack what "intergenerational equity" actually means — and whether this new policy approach is based on sound data or simply political theatre. If you care about Australia's economic future, housing affordability, and intergenerational trust, this episode is essential listening. Takeaways · Intergenerational equity is a complex issue that requires careful measurement. · Older Australians may not necessarily be better off than younger generations. · Housing market dynamics significantly impact intergenerational wealth. · Government policies can inadvertently favor property owners over first home buyers. · Superannuation was designed to reduce reliance on the pension system. · Generational envy can lead to political distractions and ineffective policies. · Real fairness comes from growing the economy, not shifting wealth between generations. · Younger generations need to feel positive about their economic prospects. · Taxing mining wealth could provide a solution for funding intergenerational fairness. · Cooperation between generations is essential for Australia's prosperity. Chapters 00:10 – What "Intergenerational Fairness" Really Means 03:11 – How Governments Measure Equity Across Age Groups 06:19 – Income, Wealth and Why Generational Comparisons Mislead 10:32 – Housing Affordability, Envy Narratives and Asset Gaps 15:13 – First-Home Buyer Policies, Superannuation and Tax Debates 21:47 – Real Solutions: Productivity, Migration and Avoiding Generational Conflict About Simon Kuestenmacher Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers. He ranks as one of the world's Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can't get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels. Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others. About Michael Yardney Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia's leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation. Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation. Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results. Join Michael and Simon at Wealth Retreat 2026, where Australia's most ambitious investors and businesspeople gather to think bigger, invest smarter, and build intergenerational wealth. MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: http://www.wealthretreat.com.au/
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    38 mins
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