Die With Zero: Brilliant Retirement Strategy or Terrible Advice

Most Australians think retirement is simple – work hard, pay off the home, build a nest egg, then spend carefully so you do not run out. 

But here is the uncomfortable truth. 

A lot of people do retirement backwards. They spend their healthiest years accumulating.
Then, when they finally have the money, they have less energy, less mobility, and fewer meaningful chances to use it well. 

And at the same time, we are watching a quiet shift in Australia. Inheritances and the Bank of Mum and Dad are starting to matter as much as income.  

So the big question is not just how to retire. It is when to spend, when to give, and what this is doing to families and to society. 

In this episode of Demographics Decoded, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the evolving landscape of retirement in Australia and the importance of spending wisely throughout one’s lifetime rather than hoarding wealth for the end.  

We also discuss the psychological barriers that prevent Australians from enjoying their wealth, the value of experiences over material accumulation, and the benefits of helping children financially while still alive. 

Takeaways   

• Many Australians approach retirement backwards, accumulating wealth but not enjoying it. 

• The concept of ‘die with zero’ encourages spending money while still able to enjoy life. 

• Experiences create lasting memories that enrich our lives. 

• Helping children financially during their formative years can have a significant impact. 

• Downsizing can alleviate burdens and improve quality of life in older age. 

• A scarcity mindset can prevent individuals from enjoying their wealth and experiences. 

• The bank of mum and dad can provide crucial support for children during key life stages. 

• Future tax systems may shift towards taxing wealth rather than income. 

• Living with purpose is essential for a fulfilling retirement. 

• It’s important to be intentional about spending and helping family. 

 
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 3rd 2026 – find out more 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. 

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. 

Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Property Investment, Success and Money |The Michael Yardney Podcast. Just look for it wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: