Articles & Questions
Every week I publish a fun new article on a money topic I think you’ll find interesting. I also answer a handful of reader questions. Subscribers to my newsletter get to see everything first — but you can browse some of my past articles & questions on this page.
My Best Articles
Not sure where to start? Below I’ve handpicked a few of my favourites. And if you like what you see, don’t forget to subscribe to my free newsletter to get new issues before anyone else!
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What the Flip?
I just read your recent column and I have one question: how the flip do you not carry a phone? I’m quite interested in the logistics of such a daring lifestyle choice in this day and age.
Fingers in the Jam Jar
When kid #1 was born, I put $10,000 into an index fund for him. Kid #2 is now due and I’ve done the same. I have not set up the money in a trust, though. I DO NOT want to hand over the Jam Jar when they turn 18
Night-Night, Barefoot
I have been a proud Barefooter for years. Last night my three-year-old son requested ‘The Doggie Book’ for his bedtime story. Thank you for being such a positive influence in our household.
The Greatest Investor You’ve Never Heard of
Let me tell you about one of the greatest investors you’ve never heard of. His name is David Swensen.
This is How to Get a Job
Something to brighten your day. My almost 15-year-old recently applied for (and got) her first job at a local ice-cream store. She based her application on your example in The Barefoot Investor for Families. Now my 11-year-old believes she should also be allowed to get a job at the ice-cream store.
Following My Dream
I am trying to follow my dream of buying my own home before I turn 30, even though I am on an average wage. But my accountant recently put me in touch with his property advisory team and they are adamant I should buy an investment property (with their help) as a way to pay less tax.
Fixed or Variable?
I am wondering, given current home loan interest rates, whether you still recommend a variable home loan with no frills and extras. Fixed-term home loan now rates are as low as 1.9%, so they are very tempting!
Thanks, Mum
I will be forever grateful to you for removing the noose around the neck of both me and my mum. A couple of years ago I read your book and was hooked — I set up my buckets and paid down my credit cards. Then I realised I could also help my mum.
Help! My Mother-in-law Breeds Siamese Fighting Fish
I get along well with my mother-in-law — it’s her business ideas that drive me nuts. One day she discovered the marvellous world of pet breeding, specifically high-end ragdoll cats. Quite good money for cute little kittens. She took a loan — from my wife — and off she went.
A Very Barefoot Will
My beautiful mum passed away recently. She was a big fan of yours. Each Sunday we’d catch up and she’d ask me what ‘Barefoot Scott’ had written this week, often chuckling at your straight-talking responses. After she died, we found that she had left instructions (in her fire-proof Bunnings safe) about a hidden ‘Mojo’ envelope — to help us out until her will was resolved.
The best Mother's Day present
Many years ago, I was invited to a very exclusive finance dinner.
As luck would have it, I found myself sitting next to a VIP ... the chief of a large international bank.
He leant in, shook my hand, and began telling me all about his sprawling bank, which employed tens of thousands of staff and had millions of customers.
Can I Block My Husband?
I dread my parents passing away! Apart from the emotional devastation, I am petrified about the financial impact the inheritance (built during a lifetime of hard work) may have.
The Barefoot Barn
On the farm we’re building a barn. Okay, honestly, it’s an old-school man cave, with a pool table, a dart board and a very big library.
Budgeting For Women
I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your column last week, where you replied to Roseanna, a domestic violence survivor, and provided some really sound advice on how to escape her abusive and controlling partner while still remaining financially safe.
All I Wanted To Be Was A ‘Good Mum’
My husband bailed on me when my son was just 18 months old, leaving me with the most beautiful boy in the wide world but nothing much else. He grew into a teenager but by then things were not going well. One night, I was on the floor gasping from the weight of uncertainty and crushing fear, thinking I might not be able to provide for him, or even to keep our home. All I ever really wanted to be was ‘a good mum’ but I was flattened.
How Can I Escape My Abusive Partner?
I am 29 and living with an abusive partner. After years of disinterest, he suddenly wants to ‘go Barefoot’ — now that I have a new job! I am wondering how I can follow my own Barefoot path and still keep money hidden away so I can escape this relationship. Perhaps I should follow your book with my partner AND open another account on the side. Any advice?
How Not to Buy an Island
A couple of years ago you warned retirees about investing with a company that owned Dunk Island, who were promising high returns. Well, I just read about Dunk’s repossession. You predicted this!
The crypto test
Last Saturday night I found myself standing alone at a bonfire party, staring thoughtfully at the flames. A guy walked up to me awkwardly. “Would you like a beer?” he asked.
When It Rains It Pours
A year ago I was in debt and had just had a marriage breakdown. Then I read your book. Since then, the debt has been paid off, I have an emergency fund, I have buckets! Which is a good thing, because I have just lost everything in the Port Macquarie floods. I was not covered for flooding, but I will survive. So thank you, you have really helped!