In this inspiring episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie sits down with Hannah Porter - founder of baby and kids' brand Bear & Moo - to talk about building a successful startup from scratch, while juggling family life and financial realities. From starting with just $6,000 to growing into a thriving online and retail store, Hannah shares what it’s really like to take a calculated risk and create something that works for your lifestyle, and helps build financial success.

This episode covers:

• How Hannah went from corporate jobs to launching Bear & Moo with only a small amount of savings
• The balance between family life, risk, and financial stability when starting a business
• The growth journey through COVID, supply chain issues, and economic slowdowns - it hasn't been easy!
• Why knowing your numbers and cashflow is vital for small business survival
• Tips on household budgeting, running multiple bank accounts, and teaching kids about money

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Bear & Moo website – https://bearandmoo.co.nz/
Tenancy Services (for household budgeting references): https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel inspired (and maybe a little more organised!) to take control of your own finances - whether that’s starting a side hustle, improving your family’s budget system, or simply getting more confident about your money decisions. So go forth and conquer!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

Spring might be in the air, but the economy hasn’t quite joined the party yet. In this quarterly economic update, Shamubeel Eaqub, Simplicity’s Chief Economist, breaks down what’s really going on in New Zealand and across the globe. He explains why the economy still feels sluggish, what's happening re: the cost of living crisis, and what to watch for next.

This episode covers:

• Why the New Zealand economy is experiencing one of its longest and deepest slowdowns in decades
• How global uncertainty - from wars to trade tensions and political instability - is shaping financial markets as well as household confidence
• What the Reserve Bank is doing with interest rates, how much time it might take to see the impacts of these levers
• The unusual signals in jobs, consumer spending, and business confidence that make this cycle different
• When Shamubeel sees (cautious) optimisim returning, and what that might mean for everyday Kiwis

Shamubeel is here to explain complex economic trends in plain language, helping you understand how global shocks and local policy decisions flow through to your wallet. Hopefully you’ll leave with a clearer picture of where we are in the cycle - and what to watch for as we (hopefully) move toward a strong recovery.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv unpack one of the most simple and powerful (yet often misunderstood) tools for building wealth: index funds. They explain what index funds are, why they’re so popular with investors worldwide, and how they actually stack up against actively managed funds. Using strawberries, gift hampers, and a couple of screw-ups along the way (we never said we were perfect!), they strip back the jargon to make index investing easy to understand - and get started!

This episode covers:

• What an index fund actually is and what "mirroring a market" means
• Why index funds are generally lower cost than actively managed funds
• How diversification works in terms of owning “a little bit of everything” 
• The long-term performance data showing how index funds compare to actively managed funds over time
• The role of ethical screening and how one can align index funds with their personal values
• Downsides and risks of index funds compared to other investments

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org guide to investment funds

- SPIVA (S&P Indices Versus Active) research reports

- Bogleheads investing community and information page

Index funds won’t promise a quick win or let you “beat the market,” but they’ve proven to be one of the simplest, lowest-cost, and most effective ways for everyday investors around the world to grow their wealth over the long term. So dive in to the podcast now!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv take on the top five money myths that keep holding Kiwis back from building financial confidence - and wealth! From saving when money is tight to whether credit cards are always “bad,” they tackle some of the most common misconceptions with real-life examples and practical advice you can actually use. 

This episode covers:

• Why “I don’t earn enough to save” is almost never true
• The truth about credit cards: when they can be helpful, and when they become dangerous
• Why buying a house isn’t always better than renting, and how to think about what’s right for you
• Busting the belief that you need to be rich to invest (spoiler: you don’t!)
• How budgeting doesn’t kill your fun; it can actually make spending more enjoyable!

By the end of this episode, you’ll see that a lot of the financial “rules” we grew up hearing don’t stack up. We aim to provide you with a clearer view of how to make your money work better for you, no matter where you’re starting from.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub sits down with Sam Stubbs, founder of Simplicity, to explore the intersection of personal journeys, global finance, and the future of New Zealand’s economy. From growing up in the depths of West Auckland to investment banking at Goldman Sachs, Sam shares lessons from his career and why he ultimately came back to try and build something for everyday New Zealanders.

Together, Shamubeel and Sam unpack what global capital flows mean for a small country like New Zealand, the unique opportunity being created by KiwiSaver, and how leadership, luck, and resilience shape both personal and national success stories. This episode covers:

• Sam’s journey from West Auckland to Goldman Sachs, and back home again
• How the global finance industry views New Zealand... and why we often get overlooked
• The role of KiwiSaver in reshaping capital flows and creating opportunities for local investment
• What New Zealand can learn from Australia’s superannuation model and strong infrastructure growth
• Why leadership, culture, resilience and curiosity matter for building great organisations - and great economies

By the end of this episode, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on how global and local capital interact, why KiwiSaver could be a game-changer for New Zealand’s future, and what it takes to lead with resilience and humility in this tricky, rapidly changing world.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv tackle the common Kiwi dilemma: Should you rent forever, or is it better to save up and buy your own home? They unpack the real-world costs on both sides (not just mortgage vs rent), discuss the lifestyle trade-offs, and how today’s market settings can tilt the decision either way. You'll get a run down of general ownership expenses, rent realities, and practical ways to stress-test what’s right for you and your whānau. This episode covers:

• The latest NZ home-ownership and house pricing trends - and what they might mean for first-time buyers
• The upfront and ongoing costs of owning a house, vs renting it
• How to compare a “typical” mortgage on a $1m home with current rent levels in big centres 
• Lifestyle trade-offs: flexibility and predictability of renting vs stability and control of owning 
• A simple framework to help you decide what fits your budget, goals and season of life 

Resources included in this episode:

- REINZ monthly housing market data

- Statistics NZ Census data on home ownership

- CoreLogic's Housing Affordability report

- MoneyHub's guide to home insurance

- Sorted.org's Home Buying Guide

By the end of this episode, you'll hopefully have a clearer idea of the pros and cons of renting vs buying, along with a realistic view of the actual costs for each so you can make your own informed decision!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In Part 2 of our “Save and Spend” series, Liv and Jennie are back to talk about the fun side of money: spend spend spend! But even spending can go sideways if you’re not intentional about it (cue: Jennie's fave Want Monster). This episode explores how to spend smarter, not harder - and how investing in the right things can save you money, stress and regret down the track! This episode covers:

• Why “buying cheap” often costs more in the long run
• How to balance quality with affordability on everything from clothes to cookware
• Why and how spending on yourself is the smartest investment
• How to plan and nail big-ticket spending like upgrading your home
• Why it’s worth spending money on professional advice for the big decisions in life

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org's great budgeting tool to get your spending under control

- The Sorted KiwiSaver fund finder

- MoneyHub's guide: Frugal decisions that backfire

- Sorted.org's savings calculator

- The list of independent Financial Advisers (thanks to MoneyHub!)

Whether it’s investing in your health, buying quality over quantity, or avoiding false savings, this episode encourages a more conscious approach to spending. We encourage you to look at your next purchase through a long-term lens - checking "Will this serve me in the long run?".

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this very special episode of the Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub sits down with Sir Ashley Bloomfield, New Zealand’s former Director-General of Health, to talk about what we’ve learned from the COVID-19 pandemic - and how those lessons could help shape our collective future.

This thoughtful conversation touches on the complex intersection between public health, the economy, leadership and trust. It’s an honest but also hopeful discussion that sheds light on what it takes to lead through uncertainty - and how we might rebuild a more resilient, empathetic society.

This episode covers:

• Sir Ashley's background, what led him to his Director-General role and where he's gone since
• What New Zealand did well (AND not so well) during the COVID-19 pandemic
• The link between public health and a strong economy
• How leadership, communication and trust matter in moments of crisis
• Lessons from the lockdowns that still apply today, from wellbeing to social cohesion
• Sir Ashley’s reflections on personal resilience and what drives him today

Whether you're interested in leadership, public policy or simply navigating uncertain times, this episode offers a timely perspective on what it takes to foster resilience — in ourselves, our communities, and our economy.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

*Please note that nothing in this podcast is personalised financial advice or recommendations. We recommend that people seek independent financial advice when it comes to making decisions around their mortgages, insurances and/or general financial situation.*

As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze Kiwi wallets, Jennie and Liv are back with practical, real-world ideas to help you save money without sacrificing everything you love. From tackling big-ticket expenses like housing and insurance, to finding creative ways to earn a little extra or make the most of what you already have, this episode is packed with ways to help you think bigger and smarter when it comes to saving.

This episode covers:

• Ideas around reviewing and renegotiating big costs like your mortgage, rent and insurance
• The benefits of switching providers for power, internet and mobile to save money
• Ways to cut down on your transport costs
• Making use of your home space to offset expenses
• The benefits of micro-saving tools and building an emergency fund
• The role of side hustles and time-based spending swaps

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org.nz’s Guide to saving and investing

- Sorted.org.nz's  KiwiSaver calculator

- MoneyHub’s Guide to saving money in NZ

- MoneyHub’s Insurance comparison guide

- Consumer NZ’s PowerSwitch tool

- The changes being made to KiwiSaver announced in Budget 2025

This episode is all about empowering you to make smart, intentional, enduring change - whether that’s trimming unnecessary costs or finding small, creative ways to save more in the long-term. With a little effort and some fresh thinking, you may just find that it's possible to spend less without feeling like you’re missing out!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub breaks down what’s going on in the New Zealand economy - and what’s coming next. Are we still in a recession? Why has it affected people so differently? And what signs should we look for to know that a recovery is finally taking shape?

From global wars and rising oil prices to interest rates and job ads, Shamubeel gives a clear-eyed update on the forces shaping our economy right now, and what might lie ahead. This episode covers:

• Why this recession has been different - with fewer job losses, but more business pressure and closures
• The surprising resilience of the labour market (businesses holding onto workers) and how it could speed up the recovery
• Signs of stabilisation (and optimism) after a year of economic decline
• Why interest rates are expected to drive growth later this year
• The bright spot in the economy - the primary sector
• How wars, trade, inflation, migration and government spending cuts will continue to shape the outlook
• What to watch for next, including increase in job ads and lending activity

It’s a challenging time, but not without hope. Shamubeel shares why he’s cautiously optimistic about a stronger second half of 2025 - and what needs to happen for that to become reality.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv and Jennie unpack the recent changes to KiwiSaver announced in Budget 2025 - what’s changing, why it matters, and how it could impact you both now, and in the long term.

From personal contribution increases to government contribution cutbacks, it’s a mixed bag. Some changes are great, particularly for younger savers and long-term investors, but others (like the halving of the government contribution)  may feel like a step backwards.

This episode covers:

• The increase in compulsory KiwiSaver contributions from 3% to 4%, and why it’s being phased in slowly
• What the drop in the government contribution from $521 to $261 means for your savings
• The new income cap - earn over $180,000 and you’ll no longer receive any government contribution
• Good news for younger workers - 16 and 17-year-olds will now receive government contributions and next year, employer contributions
• What these changes could mean for self-employed Kiwis
• How to opt out of the increased contributions (and why that might cost you long-term)
• Why it might be time to revisit your KiwiSaver settings and contribution strategy

Whether you’re just starting out, self-employed, or looking to retire one day with a decent nest egg, this episode helps make sense of the updates and how to make them work for you.

Resources mentioned:

• Watch Shamubeel Eaqub's webinar on Budget 2025 & changes to KiwiSaver
• Latest blog on KiwiSaver changes

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Josh Taylor — or JT — co-founder of Tax Traders and Taxi, two innovative businesses making waves in the world of tax. While tax might not sound like a glamorous industry, Josh’s entrepreneurial journey is packed with insight, hard-won lessons, and inspiring moments of resilience.

From getting made redundant to selling the family home to start a business, JT shares what it really takes to build a company from the ground up, and why the best opportunities often come disguised as problems.

This episode covers:

• Why JT never thought he’d work in tax - and how it ended up changing his life
• The early days of Tax Traders and how cashflow challenges inspired their first product
• What tax pooling is (and why it matters for businesses of all sizes)
• How failure, uncertainty and grit shaped their approach to growth
• The origins of Taxi and how Simplicity’s Private Equity Fund got involved
• Top tips for entrepreneurs - including when to trust your gut and when just to let go
• The power of listening to customers and solving real problems
• What’s next for JT and his team, including their new product, ProvCheck

Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business or just love a good story about determination and hard work, this episode is for you.

Websites or resources mentioned in this episode:

• Tax Traders
• Taxi
• Simplicity Private Equity Fund

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub breaks down one of the most pressing challenges facing Aotearoa today - our ongoing housing crisis. Why are homes so unaffordable? How did we end up here? And what do we need to do to make things better? From historical policy shifts to the present day shortage, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the system’s failure... and how we might fix it. This episode covers:

• Why house prices have risen from 3x to 8x the average household income
• The long-term supply issues stemming from the reforms of the 1980s
• The rise of Generation Rent, and the growing unaffordability of home ownership
• How poor-quality, insecure housing is impacting health and wellbeing
• What needs to change - from better zoning and infrastructure to more social and affordable housing stock
• The role organisations like Simplicity and other KiwiSaver providers can play in housing solutions

Shamubeel explains in simple terms how housing went from a basic right to a national crisis, and the growing inequality between those who own and those who rent. And while we can't fix this overnight, progress is possible - let him tell you how and why. 

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie is joined by Tom Hartmann, personal finance lead at Sorted and part of Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission. Together, they break down KiwiSaver in simple, practical terms to help you feel - and help you actually get - sorted when it comes to planning for your nest egg. Whether you're just starting out or have been contributing for years, this episode is packed with insight and easy-to-understand tips to get your KiwiSaver settings right. This episode covers:

• Why KiwiSaver is an investment, not just a savings account
• How managed risk in KiwiSaver can lead to better long-term rewards
• Common misunderstandings about balances, fees and fund performance
• Why percentages (like fees) can be misleading without looking at the total dollar amounts
• How to set your fund type to match your risk profile and goals
• What to do at retirement - why you don’t have to (and maybe shouldn't!) take it all out at 65
• Tools that make comparing funds and planning your KiwiSaver future easier

Resources mentioned in this episode, all thanks to Sorted.org.nz:

- KiwiSaver projection calculator: https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-calculator

- KiwiSaver fund finder: https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-fund-finder/

- Sorted's Smart Investor tool: https://smartinvestor.sorted.org.nz/

- A range of KiwiSaver guides: https://sorted.org.nz/guides/kiwisaver

- Your guide to KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals: https://sorted.org.nz/guides/kiwisaver/applying-for-a-kiwisaver-hardship-withdrawal/

 This episode should help you better understand the why behind your KiwiSaver settings, the how of choosing the right fund, and the importance of sticking with your plan for the long term. With insights from one of New Zealand’s leading financial educators, we're hoping to help you grow your financial confidence one podcast at a time! 

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Simplicity member Rugved Deshpande to share his real-life finance journey. From childhood savings jars and pocket money to index funds, KiwiSaver choices, and building wealth his own way. As a second-generation Indian Kiwi and management accountant, Rugved reflects on how his upbringing shaped his money mindset, and how that mindset has evolved over time to where he is at today. This episode covers:

Rugved’s early memories of money, shaped by his parents’ immigrant experience and a strong culture of saving vs investing

• His transition from saving everything to building confidence with investing
• The importance of routine and "payday automation" for budgeting and long-term investing
• Why he switched KiwiSaver providers and how he feels about fund choice and contribution levels today
• His long-term financial goal of working by choice, not necessity
• Why home ownership isn’t currently part of the big plan
• The three lessons he’d give his younger self when it comes to money

This episode explores how your background influences your money habits, why early investing doesn’t have to be perfect, and how small, consistent actions (like automated investing and setting goals) can quietly grow your financial future over time. We're so grateful to Rugved for taking the time to open up and chat with us!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Chief Economist Shamubeel Eaqub unpacks how government finances actually work – and why they matter to us all. From tax and spending to investment and debt, he breaks down the jargon we hear so often in political debates and media headlines, and explains how public finance is really just a larger version of household budgeting - with long-term consequences for our country's future. This episode covers:

• Where New Zealand’s government revenue comes from, including income tax, GST and other smaller sources
• What our taxes pay for, from superannuation and healthcare to infrastructure and public services
• The key difference between the govt's day-to-day spending and long-term investment
• When government borrowing makes sense – and when it doesn’t
• Why conversations about debt and deficits often confuse short-term costs with long-term value
• The trade-offs we face as a country: higher taxes vs fewer services, short-term fixes vs long-term gains

This episode aims to shed light on why and how debates about tax, spending and government borrowing affect everyone – and why no matter what’s promised, there are always trade-offs. Shamubeel explains how to cut through the noise, ask better questions, and understand the bigger picture behind political headlines.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv dive into the not-so-sexy but super important topic of tax – specifically how it works inside your KiwiSaver.

Tax might not be everyone’s idea of a good time (trust us, we get it), but understanding the basics can make a big difference to how confident you feel about your KiwiSaver. Whether you've noticed your balance dropping in March, or you're just trying to figure out what a PIR is, this episode is for you.

This episode covers:

• Where, when and how your KiwiSaver is taxed
• What PIE funds are (hint: nothing to do with food unfortunately) and how tax works inside them
• The difference between how NZ and international investments are taxed
• Why you still pay tax even when your fund has made a loss
• How your Prescribed Investor Rate (PIR) affects your tax bill – and how to check it’s right
• What happens when you move overseas or have a kids’ KiwiSaver fund or joint investment fund
• Why paying more tax could actually be a good thing!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• IRD’s PIR Calculator – work out your correct PIR
• Sorted – online resource for financial planning tools and information
• MoneyHub’s tax guide 
• Canstar's blog – Is KiwiSaver Taxed?
• Simplicity’s tax FAQ

At the time of year, tax is one of the most common topics our Investor Services team gets asked about – and for good reason. So tune in and get the lowdown on KiwiSaver tax (with a few very average tax jokes thrown in for good measure - sorry in advance).

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this thought-provoking episode of Economy Made Simple, Simplicity Chief Economist Shamubeel Eaqub is joined by Liv to help unpack the very important but complex topic of social cohesion. They discuss what it means, why it’s under pressure, and how it underpins everything from economic stability to effective policymaking in Aotearoa. Drawing on global trends and New Zealand-specific data, Shamubeel explores how growing inequality and distrust are slowly eroding the social glue that helps society function and progress. This episode covers:

• What social cohesion actually is, and how it differs from political or social uniformity
• How rising inequality, entrenched poverty, and declining trust in institutions are undermining cohesion
• Real-world examples from the US, UK, and NZ that show what happens when cohesion breaks down
• The difference between levels of social cohesion in Australia and New Zealand (you might be surprised!)
• Why a more united, cohesive society is essential to make big, future-focused decisions (like retirement reform and climate action)
• How KiwiSaver – if evolved thoughtfully – could support both retirement wellbeing and intergenerational fairness

This episode invites listeners to think more deeply about how social division affects not just politics, but everyday life – and what it will take to protect and rebuild the collective trust we're going to need to move forward. Shamubeel reminds us that New Zealand society isn’t broken, but the cracks are starting to show and need to be addressed. If we can strengthen our sense of shared purpose and empathy, we’ll be better equipped to tackle the big challenges ahead.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie chats with Consumer NZ CEO Jon Duffy about the real pressures New Zealanders are facing in today’s challenging economy – and what we can ALL do about it. From overpriced groceries to big power bills, Jon breaks down the biggest consumer issues and gives practical tips for navigating your way to smarter spending habits. This episode covers: 

• Why supermarket prices are so high and what’s stopping real competition
• How power pricing works (AKA why it’s often unfair for everyday Kiwis)
• Your personal rights under the Fair Trading Act and Consumer Guarantees Act
• How to switch providers and negotiate better deals, especially for power!
• The "right to repair" movement and how it could reduce waste (and save you dollars)
• Why lodging complaints matters - and how it can lead to real change

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Consumer NZ – Independent consumer info, product reviews, and advice
• Powerswitch.org.nz – Compare electricity plans and providers
• Right to Repair Bill – Advocacy for better product longevity
• Commerce Commission – Government regulator for competition and consumer protection

Life can be bloody expensive right now – but we know that knowledge is power. So tune in to learn your rights and get practical tips to stretch your dollar further.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv dive into effective strategies for building job resilience during an economic downturn (like we're seeing right now). If you're worried about your job security or looking to secure a new job, this episode will arm you with the insights and strategies you may be seeking. This episode covers:

• Current trends in unemployment, business closures, job applications and how these affect everyday Kiwis
• How to make yourself indispensable at work when redundancies may be on the horizon
• Strategies for effective job hunting, including how to optimise your CV (and how to use the various job platforms and networks you may not know of!)
• When to use AI, and when to avoid it - an important distinction when applying for jobs!
• The importance of building your personal brand - what, how, why
• Different ways you can network, whether you have a job or are on the hunt
• Tips on building your own financial resilience (aka safety net) to prepare for the worst, while hoping for the best

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)'s Labour market snapshot 2025 provides the statistics we quoted around unemployment, job seekers and business liquidations

- Statistics New Zealand has even more stats on the job market if you're hungry for more

- LinkedIn professional networking platform (also great for job hunting!)

- Zeil - Zuru's new job app/marketplace

- Digital Passport: Offers free online courses in digital skills, job readiness, and AI, provided by the NZ government

- NZ Polytechnic: Offers some fees-free courses including diplomas in various disciplines

- Sorted.org.nz for financial planning tools

- MMS episode #26 for more on Rainy Day Funds, and MMS episodes #7 and #8 for managing debt. Bonus - MMS #32 for budgeting (great for working out how to trim costs if your income gets reduced)

By the end of this episode, we hope that you'll feel a little more comfortable facing what is obviously quite a challenging economic time for NZ (and the world) right now! We want you to be confident in facing the uncertainty we're seeing, given you'll have an arsenal of skills, ideas and ways to network your way to your next great opportunity - whatever that may look like!

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Economy Made Simple! Our host Shamubeel Eaqub delves into the current state of financial markets, the broader economy, and the impact of global volatility on the local environment. This episode offers a "State of the Nation" perspective, perfect for those who would like to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of the economy. This episode covers:

• The recent downturns in global financial markets, shedding light on the causes of current economic fears and how these are reflected in things like KiwiSaver accounts
• Insights into how old-school policies like tariffs are reintroducing geopolitical uncertainties that haven't been seen for decades, and what this means globally and for NZ
• The importance of a long-term perspective when it comes to retirement savings, and the worth of regular and consistent contributions despite market swings
• A discussion on New Zealand’s specific challenges and strengths in the global economy, including our geographical isolation and diverse trading strategies.

 In this episode, Shamubeel unpacks some complex economic trends to help you better understand how these might impact your investments and financial strategy. Armed with this knowledge, you can make more informed decisions, stay resilient in the face of economic fluctuations, and plan more effectively for the future. 

*This podcast contains Simplicity Research Hub’s economic and policy analysis, opinions, and commentary and is provided for general information only. It does not relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity NZ Ltd is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver and Investment Funds Schemes. For Product Disclosure Statements please visit our website simplicity.kiwi.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this second episode of our two-part series with Jane Wrightson, New Zealand's Retirement Commissioner, we dive deeper into the future of retirement and how today’s choices can and will impact tomorrow's freedom. This episode, tackles some thought-provoking issues and projections, and could be a game-changer for those trying to secure a more comfortable future. This week's episode covers:

• How retirement is changing both in New Zealand and globally, reflecting longer lifespans and economic shifts
• The concept of FORO (fear of running out) and strategies to mitigate this fear by planning for a potentially 30-year retirement
• The trend towards working past traditional retirement ages, and how this can sometimes be choice and for others necessity
• Challenges future retirees might face, especially those not owning their homes outright or dealing with escalating health costs as they age
• Tips n' tricks to ensure you're planning for retirement (no matter how far away it is!) with the right goals and plan in mind

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Sorted: The Retirement Commission's very own (and world famous on this podcast) online resource for financial planning tools and information.
• Commission for Financial Capability: Offers guidance on retirement planning and financial security.

Through these discussions, listeners can gain valuable insights into preparing for a retirement that may look very different from today's standards. Whether you're just starting to think about saving or you're adjusting your existing plans, this episode provides insights and tips for navigating the complexities of retirement planning.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie sits down with New Zealand’s Retirement Commissioner, Jane Wrightson, to discuss what retirement really looks like in New Zealand. We often think of retirement as something far off on the horizon but the reality is, the choices we make today shape our financial future.

This episode covers:

• The true state of retirement in NZ—why the “rich boomer” stereotype doesn’t match the reality for many retirees
• NZ Super (the pension): What it’s designed for and the challenges it faces with rising housing costs
• KiwiSaver as a game-changer and why/how it’s one of the best tools for building long-term financial security
• The role of financial literacy and why educating young people about money is crucial
• How professional financial advice can help - and when to consider it

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Sorted.org.nz – Financial education and tools
• Money Talks – Free financial helpline and mentoring

No matter how far away retirement is, the sooner you start preparing, the more options you’ll have. Tune in for a straight-talking conversation about what it really takes to retire well in New Zealand.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In celebration of International Women's Day on the 8th March, this episode of Money Made simple sees Jennie and Liv discussing women and money. Something we should know a bit about! We discuss the unique challenges as well as opportunities women face in terms of earning, saving, spending and investing money - both here in NZ and globally. This episode covers:

• An overview of the gender pay gap in NZ (and globally), including recent trends and how the pay gap impacts women differently
• Insights into the systemic issues and biases that contribute to financial disparities for women (including the research to back it up!)
• Career breaks and their long-term effects on women’s finances, particularly regarding KiwiSaver and other savings
• Strategies for building financial confidence, from he importance of workplace negotiation to tackling the confidence gap in job applications
• How to better manage and optimise your KiwiSaver balance as a woman (including during mat leave type scenarios)
• Tips for investing outside of KiwiSaver in the current environment
• Of course, our own lessons/learnings around investing as Kiwi women!
• Some kick-ass women focused resources to help our fellow female listeners level up their financial knowledge and power

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Financial Services Council Research on the KiwiSaver gender gap

- SEEK's March 2023 Research on the gender confidence gap

- Money Talks for financial mentoring

- Mary Holm’s personal finance education site

- Making Cents, a personal finance podcast by Frances Cook

- One Up Project, our good friend Sarah Kelsey creating a community for self-improvement

- Money Made Simple book (and of course this same-named podcast!)

This episode not only sheds light on the financial inequities women face but also provides practical steps for overcoming these challenges. Whether you’re looking to negotiate a raise or better manage your investments, there’s something here to help you make informed, confident financial decisions. 

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

*Disclaimer: This podcast material is for information purposes only. Simplicity does not provide financial advice or offer insurance products. Simplicity is not affiliated with Partners Life or any other insurer, and we do not provide recommendations or referrals.*

In this second episode of our insurance 101 series, Liv welcomes back Mark from Partner's Life to get into the nitty gritty of personal insurances. Building on our "why" and "how" from Part One, this episode focuses on understanding the specific types of personal insurance and how they cater to different life stages and needs. This episode covers:

• Life insurance, its primary purpose and specifically what it covers
• Trauma and critical illness insurances, explaining how they provide lump sums for specific medical diagnoses
• A quick overview of Total Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance and how it differs based on one's ability to work post-incident
• Mortgage and income protection insurances, and their benefits in replacing income during periods of inability to work
• Clarification on health insurance and its role alongside public services like ACC (including what that covers)
• The advice process when it comes to insurance - how to choose an adviser, what their requirements are, what exactly they will do (and what's required from you)
• How to claim against your personal insurances (and how advisers can help)
• Ways to tackle affordability when it comes to paying for insurance among today's cost of living challenges

By the end of this episode, you’ll hopefully have a more comprehensive understanding of different insurance types, so that you can be better equipped to make informed decisions about your insurance needs. Whether you're looking to secure your family's future or ensure your income in case of disability, this discussion will take you through some of the main choices available to understand what protection is available for different circumstances.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.