Where They Started
I met Liam and Olivia and started working with them as their financial coach in October 2023. Like many of my coaching clients, they struggled with financial discipline, had significant consumer and tax debt, and were living paycheck to paycheck. On top of that, Olivia was on maternity leave, meaning they were relying on just one income.
If you’ve ever had a family with a little baby, one income, and a whole heap of hormones and sleepless nights, you’ll know how challenging that can be!
Despite the challenges, they had a few strong points in their favor:
✔ No mortgage on their own home
✔ $125,000 in savings
✔ Olivia owned 50% of an investment property
✔ Most importantly, they were motivated to do better
They knew that with focus, discipline, and a dose of humor, their goals were absolutely possible.
Progress Over 12 Months
Where They Are Now
While living on one income for most of the year, they managed to pay off $76,000 of their consumer and tax debt—partly by selling one of their vehicles. Now, that is what I call a big bad-ass move (not just “skip the daily coconut cappuccino”).
They are now back to two incomes, although Olivia works part-time and enjoys more time at home with their child.
Their combined financial net benefit? $136,293—achieved in just 12 months.
And the best part? They still lived their lives!
✔ Took an overseas holiday
✔ Completed building work on their home
✔ Enjoyed life without deprivation
✔ Bought a stand-alone investment property in Hamilton!
I would have bought a designer bag to celebrate—these guys bought a freaking house! And the best part? Their new home costs them less per month than their old consumer debt payments.
How We Made This Happen
Created a 10–20 year financial plan and a step-by-step manual for the first 12 months.
Implemented a budgeting system that actually works.
Tackled consumer debt strategically—paying it off in the most effective order.
Moved their KiwiSaver to a provider with better investment strategies and historical returns.
Rearranged lending on their investment property so it cost them nothing while they were on one income.
Avoided the lazy way out—they didn’t just use their savings to pay off debt. Instead, they worked hard to make lasting change.
Sold a vehicle and unnecessary household items.
Showed up every single month for coaching—this is 50% of the secret sauce!
Ready to Change Your Financial Future?
Liam and Olivia didn’t let maternity leave or a newborn become an excuse to put off their finances. They took control—and the results speak for themselves.
If you’re ready to become our next success story and inspire your family and community, we’d love to hear from you.
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