Episodes

  • Double Act or Double Trouble? The Truth About Couple-Run Businesses with Mark Creedon

    Double Act or Double Trouble? The Truth About Couple-Run Businesses with Mark Creedon
    Jul 29 2025
    Did you know that around 40% of family-owned businesses in Australia are run by couples? Often husband-and-wife teams share not only a home but also a business. On the surface, this might sound like the ultimate partnership - sharing a vision, building wealth together, and celebrating wins side by side. But the reality? It’s not always so rosy. Running a business with your partner presents unique challenges - blurring the lines between work and life, financial pressures, role conflicts, and sometimes even health and relationship issues. In fact, international research suggests that couples who own businesses together may face higher divorce rates and greater stress than the general population. So how can these couples make it work? What strategies can help them thrive in both their relationship and their business? That’s what Simon Kuestenmacher and I unpack today with our guest, Mark Creedon, CEO of Metropole and host of the Mastermind for Business podcast. Today, we “pick his brain” as to why he believes some businesses can be both incredibly resilient and still uniquely vulnerable, and more importantly, how to avoid the common pitfalls. So whether you’re in business with your partner, or not, or maybe just curious about how demographics shape these trends, this conversation is for you. Takeaways · Couples in business face unique challenges that can blur personal and professional boundaries. · Trust and shared values are crucial for couples running a business together. · Clear role definitions help mitigate conflicts in couple-run businesses. · Communication is key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. · Financial stress can exacerbate relationship issues for couples in business. · Succession planning is more complex in couple-owned businesses due to emotional attachments. · Having external support, like business coaching, can provide valuable perspectives. · Work-life harmony is more realistic than work-life balance for couples in business. · Couples should maintain individual interests and friendships outside of work. · Planning for the future is essential for the longevity of couple-owned businesses. Chapters 00:00 The Dynamics of Couples in Business 09:23 Challenges Faced by Couples in Business 17:47 Strategies for Success in Couple-run Businesses 27:05 The Importance of External Support and Planning Guest: Mark Creedon – Mastermind Business Accelerator which is community for you if you you’re a business person or couple who wants to 10x your income, elevate your ability to give, and leave a massive impact on your community and the world by up-levelling your tribe, improving your business acumen, and removing your limiting beliefs around money and success. Find out more here. Subscribe to Mark’s Mastermind for Business Podcast here 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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    34 mins
  • Australia in 2125: What the Next 100 Years Could Look Like

    Australia in 2125: What the Next 100 Years Could Look Like
    Jul 22 2025
    What would someone from 1925 make of the Australia we live in today? Would they be amazed by our prosperity? Shocked by how much our values and lifestyles have changed? Or perhaps surprised that a place called the “Gold Coast” even exists? In today’s episode of Demographics Decoded, Simon Kuestenmacher and I take a time machine journey through Australia’s past and present. We explore how our country has evolved over the last 100 years – socially, culturally, demographically – and then fast-forward to ask: what might Australia look like in another hundred years? What kind of cities will we be living in? What will family life look like? Will we still have a strong sense of community? And how will we continue to grow in a world of declining fertility and aging populations? This episode is as much about nostalgia as it is about foresight – so buckle in for a thought-provoking journey across a century of change, and what lies ahead. Takeaways · Australia's cities have undergone significant evolution over the last century. · The Gold Coast represents a major urban success story. · The role of religion in society may evolve in the future. · Australia is becoming increasingly multicultural, with a diverse population. · Family dynamics and workforce participation have changed dramatically since 1925. · Future predictions suggest a doubling of Australia's population. · Technological advancements will reshape urban living and work. · Longer life expectancies will impact retirement and workforce dynamics. · Social support systems for the elderly will need to adapt to demographic changes. · The choices made today will shape the future for generations to come. Chapters 00:00 A Journey Through Time: Australia Then and Now 06:40 The Evolution of Community and Religion 10:00 Multiculturalism: A New Australian Identity 11:55 Changing Family Dynamics and Workforce Participation 15:26 Urban Development: Homes and Infrastructure 21:12 The Future of Australia: Predictions and Possibilities 30:39 Messages for Future Generations Links and Resources:     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.
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    35 mins
  • Baby Boomers Are Sitting on Property Goldmines – But Refusing to Cash In

    Baby Boomers Are Sitting on Property Goldmines – But Refusing to Cash In
    Jul 15 2025
    Have you ever wondered why more Baby Boomers aren’t downsizing, even though many are now living in homes that are bigger than they need? Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss this important demographic trend that affects housing affordability, intergenerational wealth, and how our cities will evolve. So whether you're a policymaker, a property investor, or a Millennial waiting for the Boomer next door to sell, you won’t want to miss this show. Takeaways · The narrative of downsizing among baby boomers is often exaggerated. · Emotional attachments to family homes play a significant role in the decision to downsize. · Many baby boomers prefer to age in place rather than move to smaller homes. · Financial disincentives, such as stamp duty, discourage downsizing. · The lack of suitable housing stock for downsizers is a major barrier. · Governments need to create incentives to encourage downsizing. · Baby boomers are asset-rich but cautious about moving. · Millennials are missing out on family homes due to baby boomers not downsizing. · Local councils often block developments that could provide suitable housing for downsizers. · Downsizing is not just about space; it's about lifestyle and community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Downsizing Trends 01:14 The Reality of Downsizing for Baby Boomers 03:53 Emotional Attachments and Decision-Making 09:19 Financial Disincentives in Downsizing 13:13 Barriers to Development and Housing Stock 15:35 Wealth Distribution and Baby Boomers 18:09 Consequences of Not Downsizing 21:51 Government Policies and Housing Market 24:37 Personal Considerations for Downsizing Links and Resources:     About Simon Kuestenmacher Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group https://www.simonkuestenmacher.com/ https://www.tdgp.com.au/ 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. https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonkuestenmacher/ https://x.com/simongerman600?lang=en 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. https://michaelyardney.com/ https://metropole.com.au/ 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 https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelyardney/ https://www.instagram.com/michaelyardney/ 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. https://investor.metropole.com.au/strategic-property-plan/
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    29 mins
  • The Surprising Data Behind Modern Parenting Styles

    The Surprising Data Behind Modern Parenting Styles
    Jul 8 2025
    Modern parenting has turned into a competitive sport, with school rankings, extracurricular rosters, perfectly curated lunchboxes, and, of course, constant supervision. But is all this so-called ‘help’ truly helping? In today’s episode of Demographics Decoded, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss a parenting trend that has become all too familiar — helicopter parenting. That’s the kind where parents hover, micromanage, and try to smooth over every bump in their child’s path - often with the best of intentions, but sometimes with unintended consequences. Now, whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, or even a former child yourself (which, let’s face it, is all of us), this is a conversation worth hearing. Because helicopter parenting isn’t just a phase — it’s a demographic phenomenon, tied to everything from declining birth rates to increased wealth to rising perfectionism. Takeaways · Helicopter parenting is a growing trend across the Western world. · Parents today are spending significantly more time with their children than in the past. · The increase in parental involvement can sometimes hinder children's independence. · Older parents tend to be more risk-averse, impacting their parenting style. · Affluent parents often micromanage their children's activities and education. · Children today have less opportunity for unsupervised free play, which is crucial for development. · Micro disappointments are essential for building resilience in children. · Parental fears often overestimate the risks associated with children's independence. · Education systems are seeing increased parental pressure, which can undermine teachers' authority. · The rise of helicopter parenting reflects broader societal changes and demographic trends Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Trends 02:05 Understanding Helicopter Parenting 05:19 Demographic Drivers of Parenting Styles 08:04 The Impact of Age on Parenting 10:38 Affluence and Micromanagement in Parenting 12:03 Parental Involvement in Education 16:19 Long-term Effects of Helicopter Parenting 18:34 Global Perspectives on Parenting Trends 20:17 Advice for Modern Parents Links and Resources:     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.
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    25 mins
  • Homeownership in Crisis: What the Numbers Are Really Telling Us

    Homeownership in Crisis: What the Numbers Are Really Telling Us
    Jul 1 2025
    Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s at the heart of the “Great Australian Dream”: homeownership. For over a century, owning your own home was not just a rite of passage—it was an expectation. But that dream is slipping further out of reach for millions of Australians, particularly younger generations. We discuss the evolving landscape of homeownership in Australia, tracing its historical roots and examining the current challenges faced by younger generations. We examine the impact of demographic shifts, migration, and investment trends on homeownership rates, as well as the growing trend towards renting. The conversation highlights the complexities of housing affordability and the systemic issues that need to be addressed to ensure a fair chance for all Australians in the property market. Takeaways · Homeownership has historically been a rite of passage in Australia. · The peak homeownership rate in Australia was 73% in 1966. · Demographic changes are affecting homeownership rates, especially among younger generations. · The accessibility of finance has significantly influenced homeownership. · The divide between asset-owning and non-asset-owning families is growing. · Renting is becoming more common in Australia, similar to European models. · Government policies often aim to maintain the current housing system rather than reform it. · The 'Bank of Mom and Dad' plays a crucial role in helping younger generations enter the property market. · Migration and investment trends significantly impact housing affordability. · Systemic changes are needed to address the challenges of homeownership for future generations. Chapters 00:10 The Great Australian Dream of Homeownership 06:39 Historical Trends in Homeownership Rates 12:38 The Impact of Migration and Investment on Housing 17:40 The Shift Towards Renting 20:05 Demographic Insights and Future Predictions Links and Resources:     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.
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    26 mins
  • This Surprising Age Could Be the Happiest Time of Your Life

    This Surprising Age Could Be the Happiest Time of Your Life
    Jun 24 2025
    They say life begins at 40. But is that just a feel-good phrase… or does the data actually support it? In this episode of Demographics Decoded, we explore one of life’s most pivotal—but often misunderstood—stages: midlife. And this conversation isn’t just for those in their 40s or 50s. Whether you’re just starting out, in the thick of your career, or thinking about what’s next, understanding what happens in this phase of life can help you plan better, lead better, and live with more purpose. Why? Because midlife is often when things come to a head — financially, emotionally, and socially. It’s a time of transition, reflection, and, for many, reinvention. It’s when people start to prioritise meaning over milestones, and often finally have the tools and freedom to shape life on their own terms. So whether you’re approaching your 40s, already there, or watching friends or parents navigate it, this episode will help you better understand the demographics, psychology, and power of midlife — and how it shapes our lives and our society. Takeaways · Life satisfaction often follows a U-curve, dipping in midlife. · Midlife is a time for re-evaluation and self-discovery. · Millennials are experiencing midlife differently than previous generations. · Individuation involves confronting one's shadow self. · Financial pressures can delay the transition into the second half of life. · Divorce rates tend to spike during midlife. · Midlife can be a time of increased financial comfort. · The second stage of life is not strictly tied to age. · Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth in midlife. · Understanding demographic shifts can inform life planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Midlife and Its Significance 02:56 The U-Curve of Happiness and Midlife Crisis 05:29 Millennials and the Shift in Life Stages 07:49 The Process of Individuation and Self-Discovery 10:41 Demographic Changes and Their Impact on Midlife 13:05 Divorce and Re-evaluation in Midlife 15:57 Financial Awareness and Planning in Midlife 18:37 Entering the Second Stage of Life 20:19 Conclusion and Reflection on Midlife Links and Resources:     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.
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    23 mins
  • The Real Reason Millions Are Moving to Australia – It’s Not What You Think

    The Real Reason Millions Are Moving to Australia – It’s Not What You Think
    Jun 17 2025
    What does migration really tell us? Not just about borders, jobs, or economic growth—but about freedom, human ambition, and the deep desire for a better life. In today’s show we explore the deeper meaning behind one of the most powerful global forces of our time - migration. So, if you're wondering why record numbers of people are choosing to call Australia home… or how migration patterns will shape our economy, housing markets, and workforce in the years ahead… or even what migration reveals about who we are as a society—this discussion will give you the big-picture insights you need. Takeaways Migration is driven by human ambition and the desire for a better life. Countries with high migration rates often reflect greater freedom. Freedom to leave a country is a significant indicator of personal freedom. Economic opportunities are a major factor influencing migration patterns. Most migrants prefer to stay close to their home countries. Australia is a multicultural nation with a high percentage of migrants. Integration of migrants into society is generally successful over generations. Concerns about migration often stem from infrastructure and housing issues. The US remains the top destination for global migrants. Migration trends are predictable and reflect global economic conditions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Migration and Human Ambition 02:58 Understanding Freedom Through Migration 04:53 The Dynamics of Global Migration Patterns 07:23 Economic Motivations Behind Migration 09:58 The Impact of Migration on Source Countries 12:35 Perceptions of Risk and Opportunity in Migration 15:30 Migration Trends in Europe and Beyond 18:02 Australia's Unique Migration Landscape 20:36 Challenges and Solutions in Migration Policy 23:11 Future Trends in Migration Links and Resources:  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.
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    29 mins
  • Suburban Bliss is Back — How Millennials Are Reimagining the Great Aussie Dream

    Suburban Bliss is Back — How Millennials Are Reimagining the Great Aussie Dream
    Jun 10 2025
    In today’s show we discuss the significant shift of millennials from urban living to suburban areas. This is a generation that once embraced city skylines, inner-city cafes, and the hustle of urban living but are now packing up and heading for the burbs. But not for the white picket fence alone. We explore the reasons behind this migration, the changing dynamics of suburban life, and the challenges related to infrastructure and housing markets. The conversation also touches on the impact of remote work, the role of government in suburban development, and the economic landscape of new developments. Ultimately, we highlight how millennials are reshaping suburban culture while still valuing aspects of their urban lifestyles. Takeaways · Millennials are moving to the urban fringe for more space. · The traditional life stage cycle is still relevant for millennials. · Suburban living is being redefined with modern amenities. · Infrastructure in outer suburbs is lagging behind demand. · Remote work is changing commuting patterns for millennials. · Local governments play a crucial role in suburban development. · Migration continues to influence housing markets significantly. · Millennials desire walkable communities in the suburbs. · The economic landscape of new developments is complex. · Cultural consumption is evolving in suburban areas. Chapters 00:10 Millennials: From Urban Living to Suburban Life 02:48 The Changing Dynamics of Suburbia 05:23 Infrastructure Challenges in the Suburbs 10:50 Remote Work and Its Effects on Urban Planning 13:30 Government's Role in Suburban Development 18:32 A New Suburban Bliss: Millennial Reinvention 21:10 Demographic Insights for Future Planning Links and Resources:     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.
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    26 mins