Money Made Simple

Simplicity
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Welcome to Money Made Simple, a family of NZ-based financial literacy podcasts from Simplicity which keep it simple and get straight to the point. We want ALL Kiwis to have dignity, and a dignified life is one with choices. What can help with more choices? More money. So we're here to make Kiwis richer and smarter with money.MONEY MADE SIMPLE WITH JENNIE AND LIV: Join co-hosts Liv Lewis-Long and Jennie O'Donovan on a fortnightly basis to help you understand the basics around money, finances, investing, KiwiSaver, and planning for a better future. We aim to provide information in a bite-sized, easy-to-listen way that simplifies the jargon. 'Cos who's got time for that! We want you to feel empowered and confident when thinking about money and investing - whether that be via KiwiSaver, investment funds, the share market, property, or your general finances. THE ECONOMY MADE SIMPLE WITH SHAMUBEEL EAQUB: Join Shamubeel Eaqub, Simplicity's Chief Economist, on a monthly basis to help you understand what's happening in the economy, job market, politics and financial markets. Tune in to get economic updates, interviews with NZ's key movers and shakers, and deep dives into topics you might want to understand better. You can join the Simplicity community via the following channels:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplicity_kiwi/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplicitykiwiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simplicity-kiwi/Or check out our website: https://simplicity.kiwiCheers for tuning in - we appreciate each and every one of you %)

  1. MMS #71 | What's the right KiwiSaver contribution rate in 2026?

    2D AGO

    MMS #71 | What's the right KiwiSaver contribution rate in 2026?

    In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv revisit one of the most important - and most overlooked - parts of your KiwiSaver: your contribution rate. With changes coming into effect in 2026, including a lift to the default minimum, now's the perfect time to check in and ask whether you're actually contributing enough.   From what's changed and what it means for your take-home pay, to how to think about contributions based on your income, life stage and goals, this episode breaks down how to make KiwiSaver work for you - not just what the default says.  This episode covers: What's changing in 2026, including the rise in minimum contributions from 3% to 3.5% (with another increase planned)Updates to government contributions and new eligibility rules Why 3.5% is a useful baseline, but not necessarily the right number for everyoneHow to think about contributions based on your income, life stage and long-term goalsThe trade-off between contributing more to KiwiSaver vs investing outside it for flexibilityWhy small increases like 0.5% can make a big difference over time thanks to compoundingWhat to do if cash flow is tight, and when it might make sense to temporarily reduce contributionsHow self-employed Kiwis can approach KiwiSaver, including voluntary contributions and government incentivesWhy fund choice and fees can matter just as much as your contribution rate Jennie and Liv explain in plain English why there's no one "perfect" contribution rate - only the one that works for you. The key is not leaving it on autopilot. A quick check-in now could make a meaningful difference to your future.  --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    17 min
  2. Economy Made Simple #15 | Migration in NZ: Who will the next generation of Kiwis really be?

    APR 27

    Economy Made Simple #15 | Migration in NZ: Who will the next generation of Kiwis really be?

    In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Simplicity's Chief Economist Shamubeel Eaqub is joined by Money Made Simple host Liv to unpack one of the biggest quiet shifts happening in New Zealand right now: our rapidly changing ethnic make-up, and what it will take to turn that into something genuinely good for everyone. Drawing on his recent research for the Auckland Policy Office, Shamubeel walks through the numbers, the tensions and the choices in front of us, and why Auckland is the place to watch. This episode covers: Why Auckland is the leading edge of NZ's rapidly changing ethnic make-upWhat just shifted in NZ's newborn population for the first time, and why it mattersWhy low fertility and ongoing migration mean immigration is now locked into our future, not a cyclical choiceHow NZ's attitudes to immigration compare with Australia's, and why that gap between the two nations mattersThe hidden economic cost of under-using highly qualified migrants, particularly in AucklandFour practical policy levers that could turn diversity into shared economic benefitWhy multiculturalism, integration and the melting pot describe very different futures for NZ - and what we should be aiming to adoptThe two tensions underneath every diversity conversation, and how we might move past themBy the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer sense of the real choices in front of us when it comes to diversity and migration, and how to live alongside each other well. As Shamubeel puts it, when we talk with openness and curiosity, we usually find more common ground than difference. --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    27 min

  3. APR 19

    MMS #70 | What are asset classes? (and how they help you diversify)

    The world feels a bit uncertain right now - headlines are full of market volatility, rising oil prices, and global tensions. In stories about investments, you might be hearing a lot about the importance of “diversification”… but what does that actually mean? And how do you put it in to practice? In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv and Jennie break down the main investment asset classes - what they are, how they work, and why spreading your money across them is one of the simplest and most effective ways to diversify and manage risk over time. This episode covers: What asset classes are, and the key types: shares, bonds, property, commodities, and cashHow each asset class works, including how you make money from them (growth, income, or both)The trade-off between risk and return - and why higher returns often come with more ups and downs Why different assets behave differently depending on what’s happening in the worldWhat diversification really means (beyond the jargon) and how it helps “cushion” market volatilityReal-world examples of why not putting all your eggs in one basket mattersHow KiwiSaver and managed funds make diversification easy - often without you even realising itThe difference between active and passive (index) investing, and how both can fit into a diversified portfolioThis episode is a reminder that investing isn’t about picking winners or predicting the future. It’s about building a mix of investments that can handle whatever comes next. If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually inside your KiwiSaver fund, and why, this is a great place to start. --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    19 min
  4. MMS #69 | The spending traps hurting your budget

    APR 6

    MMS #69 | The spending traps hurting your budget

    Cost of living is spiralling higher and higher - but we're here to help you tackle it. In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv and Jennie discuss the psychology of spending, the traps that make it easier to overspend, and how to (gently) retrain your brain so your money decisions feel more intentional and less impulsive. We unpack the “Want Monster” - that little voice in your head telling you to buy the coffee, click the sale, upgrade the phone, or treat yourself because you “deserve it”.   This episode covers: What the “Want Monster” is, and why it's so dangerous in today's cost of living crunchHow instant gratification, social media, and constant sales shape our spending habitsCommon spending traps like buy now pay later (BNPL), credit cards, interest-free loans, sales, and subscription creepWhy these habits can become even more impactful when money is already tightSimple ways to create friction, reset habits, and make better spending decisionsPractical ideas like tracking your spending, using separate accounts, trying a no-spend challenge, and finding free ways to socialise This episode is a reminder that money decisions are not always just about maths... they’re often about habits, mindset, and the stories we tell ourselves. You'll walk away armed with a realistic, kinder approach to spending less without feeling deprived, and some small ideas for changes which could make a big difference over time. --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    20 min
  5. Economy Made Simple #14 | Oil shocks and war: What it means for NZ now - and in the future

    MAR 24

    Economy Made Simple #14 | Oil shocks and war: What it means for NZ now - and in the future

    In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub breaks down the recent surge in oil prices driven by conflict in the Middle East - and what it means for NZ households, businesses and the wider economy. While price shocks like this are not new, the episode highlights why they may become more frequent and what we need to think about as a country, as we prepare for the future. This episode covers: What’s behind the current spike in oil prices, and why conflict in the Middle East has global impacts New Zealand’s reliance on imported refined fuel - and why that leaves us more exposedHow rising fuel costs flow through to everyday expenses like transport, groceries, and other essentials The difference between price increases and actual fuel shortages, and why that distinction matters Which sectors and regions are most affected - from transport and agriculture to provincial communities How households and businesses have responded to oil shocks in the past The role government can play, from crisis planning to more targeted support measures Why global instability could make supply disruptions more common in the future How investing in local, renewable energy could improve long-term resilience  By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of why fuel prices are rising, how this impacts your day-to-day costs and the bigger picture for New Zealand’s economy. Shamubeel also explores the longer-term choices we face - and why building a more resilient, locally powered energy system could help reduce the impact of future shocks. --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    16 min
  6. MMS #68 | Side hustle tax? What you need to know (from a real accountant)

    MAR 22

    MMS #68 | Side hustle tax? What you need to know (from a real accountant)

    In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Annè Lensink from Villa Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors to break down “Accounting 101” for everyday Kiwis. Whether you’ve got a side hustle, are freelancing, or just feeling a bit unsure about tax, this episode helps make sense of the basics in plain English. Annè is a Chartered Accountant based in Northland, known for helping people understand their numbers and feel more confident making financial decisions. Together, she and Liv unpack what accounting actually means, when you need to start paying attention to it, and how to avoid some of the most common (and costly) mistakes. This episode covers: What “doing your accounts” actually means, and the difference between bookkeeping and accountingWhen you need to start thinking about accounting beyond a PAYE jobWhy side hustles and freelance income need to be declared and managed properlyThe first three things to do when starting a business or side hustleWhen DIY accounting tools are enough, and when it’s time to bring in an expertWhat provisional tax is, and why it so often catches people off guardHow to choose the right accountant depending on whether you want compliance or strategic adviceSimple habits that can reduce financial stress and improve decision makingThe biggest and most common barriers to getting on top of your finances (and how to avoid them!) By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how accounting fits into everyday life, when to ask for help, and how a few small habits can make your financial world feel a whole lot calmer and more in control. If you’d like to learn more or get in touch with Annè and her team, you can find Villa here: https://villaca.co.nz/ --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    15 min
  7. Economy Made Simple #13 | Economic update: Signs of recovery (but risks ahead)

    MAR 13

    Economy Made Simple #13 | Economic update: Signs of recovery (but risks ahead)

    Note for listeners: This episode was recorded just before the recent escalation of conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran. While those developments are likely to influence the global and local outlook, the economic trends and data discussed here remain relevant to understanding the current state of the New Zealand economy.  In this latest episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub takes a step back to look at where the NZeconomy sits right now, and what might lie ahead over the next 12 months. After several tough years marked by the pandemic, high inflation and rising interest rates, there are *early* signs that the economy may be stabilising. But recovery is likely to be slow and uneven. This episode covers: Why the last few years have felt like SUCH a grind for households and businesses following pandemic stimulus and a sharp rise in the cost of living The mixed picture in NZ right now, with businesses becoming more optimistic while many households are still feeling financial pressure The role migration plays in the economic cycle, and the opportunities and pressures it creates for infrastructure and housing What the job market is signalling, including stabilising employment but continued challenges in particular groupsAreas and sectors of strength in the economy which are looking promisingWhy inflation is still being felt strongly in essential costs, even as overall inflation moderatesWhat to watch from the Reserve Bank in terms of interest rates over the coming 1-2 yearsHow the upcoming election, government spending decisions and the Budget could influence the economic outlook  By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer picture of why the economy still feels tough today, but also why there are early signs that conditions could gradually improve. Shamubeel unpacks the signals economists watch most closely so you can better understand what’s happening in the wider economy and what it might mean for New Zealand households and businesses over the coming year. --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    15 min
  8. MMS #67 | How to switch KiwiSaver providers (it's easier than you think!)

    MAR 8

    MMS #67 | How to switch KiwiSaver providers (it's easier than you think!)

    In this week's episode of Money Made Simple, Liv and Jennie tackle a surprisingly common KiwiSaver question: how do you switch providers, and is there a “right” time to do it? They break down what happens behind the scenes with your provider and the IRD, why switching can be a smart long-term move (without trying to time the market), and the most common worries that stop people from taking smart action. This episode covers:  What “switching providers” actually means (and how that’s different to switching funds)  The main reasons people change provider (over and above just performance and fees!) What actually happens 'behind the curtain' when it comes to the transfer process The typical timeframe it takes to switch providers, and how long your money might be “out of the market”  The 5 biggest worries around switching between providers, and which worries are valid vs. not so worth dwelling on... Resources mentioned in this episode:  -  Compare KiwiSaver funds using Sorted’s Smart Investor tool: https://smartinvestor.sorted.org.nz/kiwisaver-and-managed-funds/?managedFundTypes=kiwisaver - Sorted's Fund Finder tool: https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-fund-finder/ -  IRD’s list of KiwiSaver providers: https://www.ird.govt.nz/kiwisaver/kiwisaver-individuals/joining-kiwisaver/kiwisaver-providers -  myIR help info: https://www.ird.govt.nz/myir-help/logging-in/find-username By the end of this episode, you’ll know what the switching process actually looks like (spoiler: no awkward breakup call required), what matters most when choosing a provider, and how to make the decision based on long-term fit instead of trying to pick the “perfect” day, week or year.  --- 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! Find us: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn 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.

    20 min
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About

Welcome to Money Made Simple, a family of NZ-based financial literacy podcasts from Simplicity which keep it simple and get straight to the point. We want ALL Kiwis to have dignity, and a dignified life is one with choices. What can help with more choices? More money. So we're here to make Kiwis richer and smarter with money.MONEY MADE SIMPLE WITH JENNIE AND LIV: Join co-hosts Liv Lewis-Long and Jennie O'Donovan on a fortnightly basis to help you understand the basics around money, finances, investing, KiwiSaver, and planning for a better future. We aim to provide information in a bite-sized, easy-to-listen way that simplifies the jargon. 'Cos who's got time for that! We want you to feel empowered and confident when thinking about money and investing - whether that be via KiwiSaver, investment funds, the share market, property, or your general finances. THE ECONOMY MADE SIMPLE WITH SHAMUBEEL EAQUB: Join Shamubeel Eaqub, Simplicity's Chief Economist, on a monthly basis to help you understand what's happening in the economy, job market, politics and financial markets. Tune in to get economic updates, interviews with NZ's key movers and shakers, and deep dives into topics you might want to understand better. You can join the Simplicity community via the following channels:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplicity_kiwi/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplicitykiwiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simplicity-kiwi/Or check out our website: https://simplicity.kiwiCheers for tuning in - we appreciate each and every one of you %)

Information

  • Creator
    Simplicity
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    89
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Money Made Simple
  • Show Website
    Money Made Simple

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