Episodes

  • S12 Ep7 Family Matters: Dealing with Divorce

    S12 Ep7 Family Matters: Dealing with Divorce
    Mar 25 2026
    In the penultimate episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss ways of dealing with some of the financial matters that can arise when couples divorce.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon comments that while he lived through a divorce as a child and feels that it is a very important topic to cover in the current ‘Family Matters’ season, he is not a financial specialist in that area. [01:27]In response to a question from Bex, Simon explains that this episode’s discussion will focus on financial issues associated with marriages and civil partnerships coming to an end; cohabiting couples have different rights under the law, which fall outside the scope of this episode. [02:43]The first financial step to take once a divorce is in process is to identify relevant assets. This can be quite a complex task, partly because it can comprise so many different elements and partly because it is not always a straightforward matter to understand and identify the exact nature and value of items such as pensions. [04:57]Another complicating factor is that it is not necessarily the case that every possible asset belonging to each member of the couple will be deemed to be available for sharing. [06:39] In that context, it can be important to understand the following terms: (i) matrimonial property – wealth that has been added during the relationship [07:59]; (ii) non-matrimonial property – assets that have been brought into the relationship [08:57]; (iii) matrimonialised property - resources that have been brought into the relationship and have then been deployed in some way during it. [09:42]The process of valuing assets during a divorce can be complex and contentious. It can be difficult to arrive at agreed valuations, with pensions posing a particular challenge because of the tax and timing factors that need to be taken into account. [10:46]Prompted by Bex, Simon suggests that it is good financial planning for assets in a relationship to be allocated, as far as possible, to each member of the couple on a fairly equal basis so that each of them can have access to an emergency fund, for example. That kind of approach can also help to provide the basis of a fair arrangement, should wealth need to be divided as part of a divorce settlement. [12:32]When it comes to splitting assets, it can often be hard to know how best to deal with a property. The situation with a house can be difficult, if it is not being sold, as it cannot simply be divided in half, and the process of deciding what kind of price to place on it is also not entirely straightforward. [15:01]Whether or not assets should be divided completely equally is a legal decision. [17:11]Because of tax considerations, pensions can be particularly complicated assets to distribute. [18:22] As part of a divorce, pensions can be allocated in one of three ways: (i) pension sharing [20:04]; pension offsetting [21:38]; (iii) pension attachment [22:51].Generally, offsetting is the approach taken to dividing investments, but it can be important to understand any taxation arrangements that apply so that fair and balanced arrangements can be made. [23:47]Finally, Simon suggests that a collaborative approach to divorce, as described on the resolution.org.uk website, can have definite benefits, as long as both parties are on board with the process. [26:17]The final episode of the ‘Family Matters’ season will explore some of the financial matters that can affect hybrid families. [27:42]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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    28 mins
  • S12 Ep6 Family Matters: Accident and Illness

    S12 Ep6 Family Matters: Accident and Illness
    Mar 18 2026
    In the sixth episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss how best to deal with financial matters arising from accident and illness factors that can affect families.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon describes the aim of this episode as being to help us to consider our options in light of the potential financial implications of various accident and illness events that can affect us and our families. [00:57]Simon suggests that the first area to explore should be insurance because it provides a means of preparing ourselves financially, to some extent at least, for unexpected changes in our circumstances. [02:29] He goes on to explain that insurance is a way of allowing a number of people to share risks together in a manageable fashion in order to reduce the impact of events that would otherwise have a very detrimental effect upon their financial situations. [03:12]When we are trying to decide what kinds of insurance we should take out, Simon suggests that it is helpful to establish a hierarchy of priorities so that we take out insurance options that are relevant and appropriate for our circumstances. [05:38] Illness insurance might, for example, be more important for a single person to have, compared with life insurance. [06:55]Simon suggests that most insurance decisions are heavily influenced by our emotions and that it can therefore be helpful to adopt an overview of insurance that appreciates the peace of mind that it can provide rather than focusing on the fact that it can end up being an outlay of finances without any tangible return. [08:52]Simon explains that a power of attorney arrangement can be an invaluable provision to have made when significant illness and accident events occur. It can be used in normal life - for example, to give access to a bank account while a spouse is overseas. However, its greatest benefit comes from its use to transfer decision-making powers (relating to finances, property and medical treatment) when someone has lost mental capacity and is no longer able to manage their own affairs. [10:45]A spouse or adult child will often be selected for power of attorney responsibilities, but a friend or trusted adviser would also be an appropriate choice. [12:12]There is no default power of attorney arrangement that comes into force If no such provision has been made, and this can lead to upsetting and expensive consequences for individuals and families. Simon therefore urges listeners to put a power of attorney arrangement in place sooner rather than later. [12:51]A power of attorney can be arranged through a solicitor in Scotland; in England, this can now be completed online. [15:14]The need for long-term care – caused by accident, illness or old age – can also have significant, unforeseen financial consequences. Professional advice can often be very helpful in such circumstances. [16:49] In addition, good family communication is vital in this area, so Bex and Simon encourage listeners to be proactive in raising financial matters in a constructive manner with other family members. [18:57] Simon reiterates that point in his closing remarks. [20:32]Bex invites listeners to share comments and questions through the usual channels: whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk via email and @whereyourtreasureispodcast on Instagram. [21:22]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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    22 mins
  • S12 Ep5 Family Matters: Making Financial Preparations for Death

    S12 Ep5 Family Matters: Making Financial Preparations for Death
    Mar 11 2026

    In the fifth episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss ways in which we can prepare well financially for death.

    Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

    1. Simon and Bex acknowledge that death can be a difficult topic to discuss but suggest that there are real benefits to be gained from talking about financial matters related to death in an open and honest manner. [00:34]
    2. In response to a question from Bex, Simon suggests that a key moment to start thinking about making preparations for death is when other people will be financially impacted by our passing. [03:49]
    3. The top priority when preparing our estate for death is to have a will drafted by a solicitor. Without that, things can become very messy and expensive. [05:41]
    4. Other preparations that can be very helpful include the following: lifetime cash flow modelling to predict future income and expenditure [09:15]; simplification and streamlining of bank accounts, pensions, investments etc. [09:53]; clear communication about what we have and where key information can be found [10:32]; updating details of our ‘financial footprint’ annually [11:47]; sharing accounts and transferring assets once it is clear that death may not be far away [12:20].
    5. Simon explains how a deed of variation can be a helpful tool that can allow beneficiaries of an estate to make changes to a will if they all agree to implement a new arrangement. [13:10]
    6. In connection with estate planning, it can be helpful to be aware that a will doesn’t include instructions regarding pensions [14:46] and that national laws can take priority on occasion, as is the case with the ‘prior rights’ of spouses and the legal rights of children in Scotland. [16:23]
    7. When it comes to the potentially complicated question of to whom should we give what when we die, Simon notes that there are many factors that may need to be taken into account. Ultimately, the decision is ours to make, but good communication will always be a vital part of the process. [17:35]
    8. Simon shares some thoughts on how wealth can be passed on to grandchildren, if desired. The use of a trust can be an appropriate and cost-effective way to do this, as inheritance tax can be avoided and the trustees can ensure that the right amount of money is passed on at the right time and in an appropriate manner. [21:09]
    9. Simon rounds off his comments by suggesting that if we can be well prepared for death, we will manage our financial arrangements in a manner that, potentially, will help to soften the blow of our death for our loved ones. [23:31]
    10. Next week’s episode will focus on dealing with financial matters related to accident and/or illness that can affect families. [23:55]

    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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    25 mins
  • S12 Ep4 Family Matters: Wider Family

    S12 Ep4 Family Matters: Wider Family
    Feb 18 2026

    In the fourth episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various financial matters that can arise from our interactions with members of our wider family.

    Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

    1. Simon and Bex introduce the episode by explaining what they mean by ‘wider family’ [00:50] before going on to explain how their own circumstances have influenced their thoughts on the extent to which they might feel prompted, or not, to engage financially with members of their respective wider families. [02:46] and [03:34]
    2. A sensible starting point, as so often with financial planning, is to know the nature and extent of your own resources. [04:05]
    3. It can also be sensible and helpful to try to establish some kind of appropriate ‘hierarchy of needs’ when thinking about our wider family relationships, but a great deal of openness, honesty and thoughtfulness is likely to be necessary to achieve that outcome. [05:02] It can, however, be well worth going through that process if it leads to money being used as a tool for the benefit of others. [06:33]
    4. Another approach that can be useful when trying to decide how generous we can afford to be to wider family is to establish criteria and responses that can assist with the decision-making process – these could include, for example, the option of giving time, skills or practical support rather than money. [08:08]
    5. In response to a question from Bex, Simon shares some suggestions about how to communicate honestly, clearly and well in wider family contexts that can often be emotionally charged as a result of money being the subject under discussion. [12:02]
    6. Simon also draws attention to third parties which can provide financial assistance, information, advice and support: the Government (national and local), charities and the local church. [16:21]
    7. In his concluding remarks, Simon encourages us to be alert to the needs of those who do not have family or wider family available to support them. [19:55]
    8. The next episode, which will be published after a short mid-season break, will focus on dealing with death-related financial matters that can affect families. [22:13]

    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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    23 mins
  • S12 Ep3 Family Matters: Parents

    S12 Ep3 Family Matters: Parents
    Feb 11 2026
    In the third episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various financial matters that can arise from the interactions that we have with our parents, especially later on in life.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex start off by talking about the importance of establishing an updated, shared understanding when adult children and their parents discuss money matters. Pete Scazzero’s ‘Emotionally Healthy’ resources are very helpful in this respect, and our own season on ‘Talking About Money’ may also be of interest. [02:17]It can be helpful for an adult child to consider how best to broach the topic of money with a parent as it can be an emotive subject, and the motivation for raising it can sometimes be called into question. For their part, parents can often make the situation easier if they are willing to take the initiative and introduce a conversation on a money theme. [03:38]The principle of honouring and respecting our parents is crucial to this whole area, with the most desirable outcome being an ability to tackle issues collaboratively rather than combatively. [06:38]It can be a complete nightmare if financial affairs are not left in order, so Simon suggests ways in which the necessary conversations and subsequent action points can be implemented in a timely and appropriate manner. [08:36]In response to a question from Bex, Simon talks about the importance of sharing relevant information with at least one other person if others are going to be affected practically and financially by your death. [11:03]For those wishing to find out more about legal matters such as wills and power of attorney, Bex draws attention to the input given by Fiona Clarke, a private client solicitor, when she appeared on Season 3 Bonus Episode 2 of the podcast. [12:27]When it comes to the question of whether we have a definite responsibility to support our parents in financial matters, Simon suggests that the starting point should be to have an honest and open conversation about the situation and then see where that leads. [12:46]Similarly, timely and thoughtful conversations with other family members are often required, for example when issues arise of how best to care for and support parents when they are ill or can no longer live independently. [15:47]Simon then shares some thoughts on possible care scenarios, with Age UK being mentioned as a possible source of helpful information and advice. [18:21]Bex and Simon conclude the episode by reiterating the importance of taking opportunities to have financial conversations with family members, not least because the sooner those chances are taken the more likely it is that there will be positive outcomes. [22:26]Next week’s episode will expand the conversation to include financial matters that affect the wider family. [23:34]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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    24 mins
  • S12 Ep2 Family Matters: Children

    S12 Ep2 Family Matters: Children
    Feb 4 2026
    In the second episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various financial matters that arise in connection with having children.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:When asked how much money people need to have in order to be able to afford to have children, Simon suggests that couples should fully discuss the matter but should not make it a financial decision. [01:17]On the topic of what do children need to know about money, Simon notes that it is a complex area and that it is hard to prepare children for what their ‘real world’ use of money is going to be like. Approaches that are likely to be helpful include talking openly about money and the reasons for the financial decisions that we make, including in connection with our giving. [03:32] Modelling certain behaviour – eg giving to the church – can also have a significant impact, as Bex observes. [05:39]Simon comments that it is becoming more complex and challenging for young people to become financially knowledgeable, adept and independent, with the result that practical and emotional support from parents has become more important than ever. [06:27]Some tips and tricks from Simon for educating children financially include getting them to save for items or to pay instalments to parents for special purchases, as well as briefing them on payment options such as interest free loans, buy now pay later, and credit cards. [08:18]As far as specific accounts for children are concerned, the disadvantage of Junior ISAs is that they can give an 18-year-old unfettered access to a significant amount of money, which may not always be helpful or wise. Parents can, however, use their own ISAs to build up savings for a child in a more controlled manner. Current accounts for children can get them used to managing their own money while prepayment cards, in particular, can provide them with useful hands-on experience of making their own purchases. [09:41]Simon talks through the pros and cons of taking on debt through loans, with a particular focus on student loans. [11:47]Simon explains some of the factors that need to be taken into account when parents are considering assisting children financially with the purchase of a property. [14:58]Other factors worth considering when parents are thinking about giving money to their children include tax efficiency, fairness/equality and clear communication with all relevant parties. [17:40]Simon offers some thoughts for parents on the tricky issue of how to deal financially with a child who is making contrary lifestyle choices. [20:03]When asked what end of life, financial preparations parents can make that will be helpful to their children, Simon emphasises the benefits of simplification and good communication. [22:08]Bex draws attention to Season 4 of the podcast as a useful resource for anyone looking for tips and practical suggestions about having conversations about money. [24:25]The focus of next week’s episode will be on financial issues that have particular relevance for parents. [24:55]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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    25 mins
  • S12 Ep1 Family Matters: Spouses / Romantic Partners

    S12 Ep1 Family Matters: Spouses / Romantic Partners
    Jan 28 2026

    In the first episode of this ‘Family Matters’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various financial matters that have particular relevance and significance for spouses and romantic partners who are in committed, long-term relationships.

    Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

    1. Simon and Bex introduce the new season and draw particular attention to the interplay between finances and relationships that will run through it. [00:33]
    2. Opening up the topic of financial matters relating to spouses and long-term romantic partners, Simon outlines his reasons for recommending that people in those kinds of relationships should combine their finances. [03:03]
    3. Key elements that are vital to merging finances successfully include good communication, openness, an appreciation that people take different approaches to dealing with money and good budgeting practices. [05:57]
    4. Bex mentions that CAP (Christians Against Poverty) run excellent budgeting courses for individuals or couples looking to acquire skills in that area. [11:00]
    5. Speaking about our relationship with money, Simon notes that ‘our heart’ can often help us discern how much is appropriate to spend in a particular circumstance. In addition, ‘practice’, experience and welcoming input from others can all help us to make thoughtful and appropriate adjustments to our spending habits. [12:58]
    6. There are elements, such as pensions and ISAs, that have to be apportioned individually, but Simon suggests that a key principle should be to approach family finances holistically. [14:46] And in that context, the focus and aim should not be on the material goal of maximising household income but on the family priority of maximising household value. [16:18]
    7. Planning, preparation and, most of all, communication are vital elements to include when looking ahead to the potential financial implications of the death of a partner or spouse. [19:01]
    8. In his closing comments, Simon suggests that the allocation of ‘pocket money’ can be a really helpful way of introducing flexibility, individual discretion, trust and clear expectations into shared financial arrangements. [20:16]
    9. Next week’s episode will focus on managing our finances with children in the mix. [23:12]

    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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    24 mins
  • S11 Bonus Ep2 Talking Faith and Finance with Stew Denholm, Bank Manager

    S11 Bonus Ep2 Talking Faith and Finance with Stew Denholm, Bank Manager
    Jan 14 2026

    In the second bonus episode of this ‘Good with Money’ season, Stew Denholm, Relationship Manager at Bank of Scotland, speaks in a personal capacity about banks, their role in our lives and the ethical principles that underpin best banking practice.

    Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:

    1. Stew introduces himself and talks about his Christian upbringing. [01:13]
    2. Stew then goes on to describe how he became involved in the banking sector. [03:43]
    3. In response to a question from Simon, Stew explains the nature of his role, working on financial projects with healthcare professionals. [06:19]
    4. Simon’s follow-up question is about the requirement for a bank to make a profit, prompting Stew to explain how a strong ethical approach can be entirely consistent with that goal. [08:26]
    5. Stew then provides some comments, in response to a question from Bex, outlining some steps to take in order to ensure that any loan undertaken is appropriate and manageable. [10:35]
    6. When asked about the attitudes displayed by those requesting loans, Stew highlights the benefits of deliberately seeking out advice rather than assuming that current knowledge will be sufficient. [12:37]
    7. As far as expressing his faith in the workplace is concerned, Stew emphasises the importance of consistently demonstrating integrity and honesty, especially when the awkward moments and difficult conversations come along. [14:29]
    8. Stew acknowledges that there has been a stereotypical image of banks dealing very formally with customers, but his experience and practice is that banks now make it their top priority to be client focused and to deliver really high quality services. [16:09]
    9. When given the opportunity to share some final thoughts, Stew talks passionately about stewardship and generosity being two key principles that are the hallmarks of how he aspires to use the money with which he has been entrusted by the Lord. [17:56]
    10. The focus of Season 12 of the podcast will be on financial issues around ‘family matters’, with the first episode dropping on 28 January 2026. [21:09]

    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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    22 mins