In this episode of My Money My Lifestyle, host Maya Fisher-French and financial planner Kirsty Scully tackle the daunting reality of expenses for young graduates entering the workforce.  With salaries that seem substantial on paper, they break down the sobering truth of the cost of living, from rent and groceries to utilities and transportation. Kirsty brings invaluable insights on the financial hurdles faced by those in their early career stages, discussing the potential pitfalls of home ownership, the significance of saving for retirement from a young age, and the importance of medical cover. They also touch on the strategic ways to handle insurance costs and the advantages of shared living to mitigate expenses. Listeners will learn the hard numbers behind what it truly costs to live independently as a new graduate. From the excitement of the first paycheque to the stark realisation of budget constraints, Maya and Kirsty guide you through practical financial planning to avoid common traps that can jeopardise financial stability. Whether you're a recent graduate, a parent advising your child, or simply interested in understanding the financial challenges faced by young professionals, this episode is packed with strategies and advice to navigate the financial transition from student life to full-time employment. Tune in to equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions, prioritise financial goals, and take control of your financial future, one paycheque at a time.