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.
---
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.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!