'Where Your Treasure Is...': The Podcast where Faith and Finance Meet

Simon Glazier and Bex Elder
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How does Christian teaching on managing our finances well tie in with the modern UK financial system? Your hosts, Simon Glazier & Bex Elder, will help you navigate the key issues of financial planning and advice with reflections on, and references to, key biblical principles that should underpin our approach to money, wealth and possessions.

  1. 5d ago

    S13 Ep3 Financial Crises: Ponzi Schemes

    In the third episode of this ‘Financial Crises’ season, Simon and Bex discuss what we can learn from classic get-rich-quick ventures, such as Ponzi schemes. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Introducing this week’s topic, Simon explains that Ponzi schemes are a really good example of the way in which money can gain a powerful grip on our hearts and cause us to make unwise financial decisions purely because of a fear of missing out on a big payout. [00:44]To illustrate the way in which people are manipulated to join Ponzi schemes, Simon tries out his best persuasive techniques on Bex! [01:39]Ponzi schemes have existed before and after Charles Ponzi’s money-making projects in 1920s America, but his scam involving postage stamps (international reply coupons) was the classic example of an investment pitch which had absolutely no substance. In theory, he could have built up a profit from buying and selling stamps in different countries to take advantage of post-war currency fluctuations. In practice, he simply talked a good game and relied on money flowing in from subsequent investors to reward the early adopters of the scheme. However, when the money-go-round eventually came to a crashing halt, as it was bound to do, it was not only investors who suffered – six banks failed because of their involvement with Mr Ponzi! [04:57]Bernie Madoff used similarly deceptive techniques to build up his financial empire, which eventually collapsed in 2008. It is estimated that he managed to defraud over 65 billion dollars from investors who thought that they were buying into a legitimate investment strategy, spearheaded by a well known and highly respected Wall Street icon! [08:26]A key learning point from the devastating effect of Ponzi schemes over the years is that if a financial proposition sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! [10:13]Getting reliable investment advice, based on sound research and understanding, is not always a straightforward task, especially when finfluencers (financial influencers on social media) and other non-expert voices are prominent these days. If you are seeking serious financial advice, the best approach is to consult a regulated individual or firm from the register maintained by the Financial Conduct Authority. [11:47]Simon comments that the Book of Proverbs is a particularly good source of pithy and unambiguous warnings about the dangers of chasing money, especially when expressed in a contemporary translation: the New Living Translation of Proverbs 13.1, for example, says, ‘Wealth from get rich quick schemes quickly disappears. Wealth from hard work grows over time.’ And Proverbs 20.17 states that, ‘Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouthful of gravel.’ [14:33]When asked whether Bitcoin is a Ponzi scheme, Simon observes that there are similarities between the two, but Bitcoin initiatives tend not to have a single promoter in the way that Ponzi schemes do. Simon also comments that he would define Bitcoin as an example of speculation rather than being a genuine investment activity. [16:14]Pyramid schemes mirror the approach taken by Ponzi in that they, too, have a strong hierarchical structure, with early adopters likely to benefit the most. Pyramid schemes do, though, trade genuine products; it’s just that the pricing mechanism is deeply flawed and ultimately leads to the goods being massively overpriced. [19:11]Simon’s concluding remark is to, ‘Get rich slow’, taking advantage of tried, tested and legitimate means of growing financial resources over time. [20:59] For her part, Bex reminds us of the importance of prioritising the things that we regard as ‘true riches’, such as relationships, how we spend our time and being generous. [21:28]Our next episode in this season will look at how financial bubbles are created and how we should respond to them. [21:49] Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  2. Sep 15

    S13 Ep2 Financial Crises: Famine, Displacement and Conflict in the Bible

    In the second episode of this ‘Financial Crises’ season, Simon and Bex discuss what we can learn from instances in the Bible when individuals and/or the nation of Israel had to deal with severe challenges caused by the likes of famine, displacement and conflict. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Simon and Bex start the episode by talking about Job as a striking example of an individual who endures a devastating personal and financial crisis but perseveres in his faith. Despite losing everything and being totally bewildered by the dramatic reversal in his fortunes, he continues to place his trust in God. [02:14]The challenge that confronts Joseph has personal elements but predominantly takes place in a wider context. By obediently interpreting Pharaoh’s dream and accepting responsibility for preparing for the predicted famine, Joseph brings God’s provision into what would otherwise have been a national disaster for Egypt. [04:23]The story of Ruth focuses once again on an individual’s predicament as she tries to eke out a living in a foreign country affected by famine. In this instance, God’s provision for Ruth comes through the generosity and protection of Boaz, who acts as a guardian-redeemer to her. [09:44]Simon points out that people can be affected in different ways by financial crises, the challenge then being that each of us needs to be open to supporting others in whatever way we can, even though we may be grappling with our own circumstances in that moment. [13:20]As described in chapters 5 and 6 of the book of the Bible bearing his name, Nehemiah has to deal with all kinds of issues of injustice, exploitation and opposition when he returns to Jerusalem to rebuild the ruined city. In a time of hardship, suffering and uncertainty, his single-minded commitment, integrity and compassion brought about many significant social improvements. [14:31]The prophet Elijah is a very interesting example of an individual who engages in a crisis at an individual level but also on a national scale, as described in 1 Kings chapters 17 and 18. He denounces King Ahab for his godlessness and proclaims that no rain will fall in the whole country as a result of the king’s attitude and behaviour. He also, though, brings hope and ongoing provision to a widow from Zarephath and her son, who are on the point of dying through lack of food. [18:18]In our next episode, Simon and Bex will be discussing Ponzi schemes and their role in various financial crises. [20:45] Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  3. Sep 1

    S13 Ep1 Financial Crises: What, Why and How?

    Simon and Bex introduce their new ‘Financial Crises’ season, explaining what they hope listeners will find interesting and helpful in it. They start by discussing what financial crises are, why they happen and how we can respond to them. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Simon introduces the season by commenting that financial crises are significant because they can affect any or all of us at any time and can have a really significant impact on people’s lives. [01:38] Bex then outlines the content of the season, which will include Ponzi Schemes, Rogue Traders and Financial Bubbles before concluding with an episode on Boom, Bust and Belief. [02:44]Simon explains that this first episode will pose a number of questions around financial crises [03:45], the first one (asked by Bex) being, ‘Are financial crises happening more regularly?’ [04:39]When asked to define the distinctive nature of financial crises, Simon suggests that it is their scale – geographically and financially – that makes them stand out. [06:37]Financial crises are also sufficiently frequent and widespread to mean that they are likely to affect each one of us at one or more points in our lives. [09:25] Moreover, they can affect us very significantly even if the core element of the crisis is happening many miles away and has nothing to do with us in terms of its nature and causes. [10:51]Each financial crisis that we encounter raises the question of how, as Christians, we should respond to such an unsettling and difficult situation. [12:28] What does a godly and trusting response look like, and how can we support our community and individuals rocked by adverse events when we are affected by them as well? [13:57]Bex cites Job as a biblical example of an individual who has to grapple with how best to maintain his faith and trust in God under the most trying of circumstances. [16:25] Ultimately, in chapter 42 verses 1-3 of the book of the Bible bearing his name, Job acknowledges God’s sovereignty and accepts that not every ‘Why?’ question can be answered in this life: ‘Then Job replied to the Lord: “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely, I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”.’ [19:13]Simon concludes by encouraging listeners to tune in to subsequent episodes of this season if they are interested in exploring how best to respond to financial crises. The next episode will focus on financial crises in the Bible, which were often triggered by war and/or famine. [20:31] Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  4. Jul 28 ·  Bonus

    S13 Bonus Ep3 Talking Faith and Finance with Dave McCarthy, Lead Pastor of Westhill Community Church

    In the third bonus episode of Season 13, Simon and Bex talk faith and finance with Dave McCarthy, Lead Pastor of Westhill Community Church in Aberdeenshire. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Dave’ introduces himself [01:26] and describes how he became an unexpected convert to Christianity. [02:22]Dave’s journey into church leadership also had some surprising elements, including dropping out of university but then being accepted for ordination in a remarkably brief time frame. [05:11]Church leadership training at that time did not include financial understanding and management; instead, the relevant skills and knowledge had to be picked up on the job, once appointed to a position of responsibility within a church. [08:01]A couple of Bible verses that have been particularly significant for Dave have been Matthew 6.21 (‘For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’) and Psalm 50.10 (‘For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.). Dave describes the latter as ‘a really powerful verse’ and one that ‘I always have… in my head’ when ‘we’ve got to find resources from somewhere’. [09:02]For Dave, the best way of communicating godly truths about financial matters is to draw attention to examples of God’s provision within the local church. In one example, faith and encouragement were stimulated by a generous donation that enabled a building project to go ahead. [11:05] In another instance, a fundraising target prompted by the lack of a church toilet ended up being the means through which a congregation grew in belief and generosity after uniting in prayer and a willingness to give in response to that need. [12:34]Dave benefited from being in supportive churches with a long history of being open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit but he acknowledges that the financial ups and downs of church leadership can take their toll on individuals and wonders whether other leadership models need to be considered for the future. [14:51]In response to a question from Simon asking him what he would say to a congregation if he were to be given free rein [16:41], Dave said that he would highlight the following points: generosity begets generosity, and God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9.6-7) [17:59]; everything that a church is able to do is funded by its congregation [18:30]; giving should not become a legalistic duty but should always come from the heart. [19:15]When it comes to practical tips, Dave notes the importance of budgeting [20:52], of making our giving a primary consideration [21:07] and ensuring that we review our giving regularly. [21:15] There is also an onus on the church to provide appropriate information, teaching and encouragement for new Christians and church members regarding financial matters. [21:54]Dave’s final tip, inspired by Proverbs 16.9 (‘A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.’), is to ensure that we take time to plan for the long term, especially as far as our retirement aspirations are concerned. [23:50]Your bonus for reading these show notes is that you get to find out that the next season of the podcast, coming after our summer break, will be all about ‘Financial Crises’! [25:58] Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  5. Jun 30 ·  Bonus

    S13 Bonus Ep2 Talking Faith and Finance with Kenny Primrose, Podcaster, Educator and Writer

    In the second bonus episode of Season 13, Kenny Primrose - Podcaster, Educator and Writer - shares insights into ways in which our lives – and our engagement with faith and finance matters - can be enhanced by asking better questions. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Kenny introduces himself [01:06] and talks about how he became a Christian. [02:05]In response to a question from Bex, Kenny talks about his professional involvements, including his podcast, ‘The Examined Life’, which invites guests to ‘distil their wisdom into a question we should be asking ourselves’. [03:55] Favourite episodes of the podcast have included Oliver Burkeman on life’s finite nature, Anna Lembke on our dopamine saturated culture, Iain McGilchrist on ‘What is my culture preventing me from seeing?’ and BJ Miller on ‘Loss, Meaning, and Learning to Feel’. [06:49]When it comes to faith and finance content, two podcast episodes have stood out for Kenny: Elizabeth Oldfield on ‘Who is it that I want to be becoming?’, in which she explores the formational nature of our interaction with money; and Peter Singer on ‘How ought I to live?’, a question that prompted Kenny’s friend, Aaron Moore, to sell all of his possessions in a piece of performance art called, ‘One Thing You Lack’. [11:13]On a personal level, Kenny is clear that money is a stewardship issue rather than an ownership matter, with one of the key messages of the Christian gospel being that life is a gift. The challenge, then, is to live out that principle in a culture which is driven by the market economy rather than by grace and generosity. [14:23]When asked about the application of biblical wisdom to contemporary society, Kenny suggests that it can be helpful to concentrate on enduring themes such as justice, generosity and responsibility or, in the Jewish tradition, Tzedakah (righteous acts), Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Chesed (charity or loving-kindness). [17:10] A particular challenge these days is that money is no longer directly associated with physical work; instead, it has become much more of an abstract concept, enabling it to take on a ‘value’ and role all of its own, often to the detriment of principles such as fairness, generosity and kindness. [18:15]Kenny’s experience of churches is that they have generally been reluctant to broach financial topics. He feels that is a missed opportunity and would welcome more directness from the pulpit on this matter, especially as Jesus spoke so often, so radically and so passionately about money. [19:50]There is a danger that we can be selective when it comes to absorbing biblical truths about money, so Simon and Kenny highlight the importance, for both society and the church, of being open and receptive to those messages, even if they are challenging to take on board. [23:01]The importance of making room for conversations about money on a regular basis - and not just when a crisis strikes - is also highlighted. If professional assistance is required, to deal with debt or other financial issues, CAP (Christians Against Poverty) is recommended as an excellent source of free advice and support. [24:21]Simon suggests that his own key question on a faith and finance theme would be, ‘How much is enough?’ For his part, Kenny’s choice is, ‘What does it mean for me to live in integrity? How do I integrate my beliefs with my actions and my words?’ [25:37]To find out more about Kenny, please go to https://kennethprimrose.co.uk/ , and explore his podcast, ‘The Examined Life’ . In addition, you can sign up to his newsletter at https://thisexaminedlife.substack.com/ [26:43] A further bonus episode with a special guest will be published on 29 July 2026. Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  6. Jun 9 ·  Bonus

    S13 Bonus Ep1 Talking Faith and Finance with Lucy Peppiatt, President of WTC Theology

    In the first bonus episode of Season 13, Lucy Peppiatt, President of WTC Theology, shares insights derived from her research into what the Bible says about money, including how women fit into that overview. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Lucy introduces herself [01:21], comments on being a ‘theologian’ [02:39] and explains how she became a Christian. [03:54]Lucy describes the steps that led to her current role as President of WTC Theology and writing her first book, ‘The Disciple’. [06:34]In response to a question from Bex, Lucy talks about how she came to focus on what the Bible says about women [09:19] and goes on to share some examples of women in the Bible and the early church who had interesting interactions with money, wealth and possessions. [11:37]Lucy highlights how relevant the Bible remains today on financial matters, particularly with its main message that if you are a Christian, you need to be aware of the people around you who are in need, and you need to be prepared to meet that need. Furthermore, the Bible still speaks very powerfully to those at either end of the poverty / wealth spectrum, as does the general exhortation in Philippians 4 to ‘be anxious for nothing’. [16:14]Lucy comments that her personal approach to money has developed over the years so that she would now like to see far more transparency and openness among Christians on this topic, as well as real momentum being created to bring more and more people into a knowledge and experience of the joy of giving and of being generous. [19:51]It can feel awkward for church leaders to talk about money, but Lucy feels that it is a kingdom principle that should be given a natural, healthy and high profile in church life. [23:52]An upcoming project for Lucy is to write a couple of books on the pastoral epistles, and her preparatory work for that will include a teaching day that she is delivering in September on the topic of what those epistles say to the church. [27:14]When asked by Simon for recommendations of her books for listeners to this podcast, Lucy suggests ‘The Disciple’ and also ‘Rediscovering Scripture’s Vision for Women’. [29:28]To explore study options with WTC Theology, please go to https://wtctheology.org.uk/study-with-us/ [30:58] A further bonus episode with a special guest will be published on 1 July 2026. Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  7. May 19 ·  Bonus

    S12 Bonus Ep2 Talking Faith, Families and Finance with Tarn Bright, Co-CEO of ‘Safe Families’ and ‘Home for Good’

    In the second bonus episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Tarn Bright, Co-CEO of ‘Safe Families’ and ‘Home for Good’, shares insights into the practical, financial and emotional issues that need to be addressed when providing support for at risk children and families. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Tarn introduces herself [01:18] and then explains how ‘Safe Families’ and ‘Home for Good’ came together to form a combined charity with a shared focus on working with the Church to prevent children entering the care system, to support families in need and to campaign on related justice issues. [02:24]Tarn shares some of the ups and downs of her faith journey, including very difficult teenage years, striving for business success and a powerful conversion experience that led to a complete change of direction. [05:45]Tarn goes on to talk about her various Church and Christian Charity roles and comments on the life-changing potential of the gospel message of ‘Shalom’ - spiritual, social, emotional and economic wholeness – when it is lived out by Christians and churches in their communities. [11:39] On a personal note, she also describes how she came to adopt Mack and Charlie. [14:08]The Bible verse that has had the greatest impact on Tarn’s attitude towards money and finances, and has enabled her to handle them with a ‘light grip’, has been Psalm 24.1, ‘The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.’ [17:01]Tarn highlights the importance of financial literacy, particularly when it comes to understanding common financial activities and mechanisms. Not only Society but also the Church should be providing this knowledge because of the potential for good that can be achieved when this happens. [19:06]Tarn speaks about the significant responsibilities that are attached to being responsible for the finances of a charity. As well as regulatory requirements and fulfilling the aims of the charity, employee considerations need to be taken into account, as does the unpredictable nature of the current financial climate across the UK. Maintaining a focus on God’s provision and his faithfulness in such circumstances can be challenging but, in Tarn’s experience, has been the crucial perspective to adopt. [21:39]Tarn shares three ‘stories of hope’ to illustrate the transformative effect of volunteers and adoptive parents on family situations, ranging from life-changing support for women in isolated and vulnerable circumstances to a group of five siblings who have been able to grow up as a ‘family within a family’. [26:09]If anyone wants to contact ‘Safe Families’ and ‘Home for Good’ for support or to make enquiries of any kind, the best approach is to visit the website and to use the contact telephone number (0333 4141488) to get in touch. (An online form is also available.) [30:12]When asked for one final comment, Tarn urges each one of us to count ourselves in rather than out because that allows God to squeeze every ounce of potential and contribution out of us. [32:36] A further bonus episode with a special guest will be published on 10 June 2026. Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

  8. Apr 28 ·  Bonus

    S12 Bonus Ep1 Talking Faith, Family and Finance with Emma Wooldridge, Life & Relationship Coach

    In the first bonus episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Emma Wooldridge, a Life & Relationship Coach, talks about her experiences of an expanded family and shares insights, gleaned from her coaching role, into financial matters that can be significant for families in general. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following: Emma introduces herself and talks about how she became a Christian. [01:08]In response to a question from Bex, Emma explains how she and Mike grew their family from five to eight over a couple of years. [02:59]Emma talks about what was involved in having to ‘reset’ the ‘family clock’ financially in order to accommodate the practical implications of the family’s increase in size. [06:17]When speaking about having family conversations about potentially awkward topics, Emma highlights the importance of creating safe and relaxed spaces for children so that they feel that they can say and ask anything. [09:44]Emma shares some of the key moments that led her to start up her own business as a Life & Relationship Coach. [11:41]For Mike and Emma, having a ‘joint lens’ when dealing with financial matters over the years has been a crucial and very positive approach to have adopted. [16:23]Noting that money is the top cause of conflict in relationships, Emma talks about the importance of opening up a dialogue about money that recognises that people have different experiences, strengths and personal narratives when it comes to dealing with money. [18:07]One tip that Emma suggests in connection with opening up a difficult conversation about money is to start by commenting on our own feelings rather than making assumptions about the other person’s point of view and likely response. [23:04]Two Bible verses that have been really significant for Mike, Emma and the family over the years are, ‘Be imitators of Christ’ (Ephesians 5.1) and ‘Love is kind’ (1 Corinthians 13.4). [25:29]When asked for ‘words of wisdom’ that could be passed on to other families, Emma comments that the key thing is that there is always hope and there is always the possibility for change. [27:31] Sometimes, for change to happen, we need to open ourselves up to receiving external assistance, as Emma acknowledges when talking about the post-Covid support that she and Mike received from Adoption UK. [29:01]If anyone is interested in engaging the services of a coach, Emma suggests looking for one who is accredited by the ICF, the International Coaching Federation. The Life Coach Directory and Barefoot Coaching are also good sources of information and recommendations when looking for a coach. For her part, Emma is happy for people to contact her for an introductory chat about coaching. Her email address is emma@kcoaching.uk, and information about the services that she offers through her business, Kairos Coaching, can be found at https://www.kcoaching.uk/. [30:12]A further bonus episode with a special guest will be published on 20 May 2026. [32:02] Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. Our Instagram page will also provide you with additional content and features. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking here: https://where-your-treasure-is.kit.com/13c7b5fec6

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How does Christian teaching on managing our finances well tie in with the modern UK financial system? Your hosts, Simon Glazier & Bex Elder, will help you navigate the key issues of financial planning and advice with reflections on, and references to, key biblical principles that should underpin our approach to money, wealth and possessions.

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