Spending Made Easy with Samantha Boardman on Podcast City Radio

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Nov 2026

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🎧 Spending Made Easy with Ron Fiedler and Samantha Boardman Money doesn’t have to be stressful — it can be simple, empowering, and even life-changing. Welcome to Spending Made Easy , the radio show and podcast that helps you take back control of your finances without the overwhelm. Join host Ron Fiedler from Podcast City and budgeting expert Samantha Boardman , founder of Spending Made Easy , as they unpack practical ways to stretch your dollars, reduce financial stress, and make confident money choices. Whether you're a single parent juggling expenses, a family trying to stay ahead, or just looking to finally understand where your money goes each week — this show is for you. Each fortnight, we break down real-world money challenges with straight-talking advice, inspiring stories, and simple strategies that actually work. It’s not about restriction — it’s about freedom. 💡 Tune in and discover how easy it can be to master your money, ditch the guilt, and create a spending plan that works for your life — not against it. ✨ Let’s make money make sense. Let’s make Spending Made Easy . Visit spendingmadeeasy.com.au or call Samantha directly on 0404 468 525 for personalised help and support.

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November 3, 2026Episode 6022 min

Even Millionaires Have Budgets! Why Your Income Doesn't Determine Your Financial Success

Does having millions in the bank mean you can spend whatever you like? You might be surprised by the answer. In this eye-opening episode of Spending Made Easy , host Ron Fiedler welcomes back fortnightly resident expert Samantha Boardman to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions about money: that people who earn more don't need to budget. Drawing on research from Ramsey Solutions indicating that 93% of millionaires surveyed stick to their budgets, Ron and Samantha discuss why financial discipline, awareness and planning matter at every income level. Samantha shares remarkable real-life experiences from her work with clients, including a person receiving government benefits who had more than $8,000 in savings, compared with a high-income professional earning approximately $300,000 annually who had no savings. These examples demonstrate that a high income doesn't automatically translate into financial security. What matters is understanding your income, recognising your expenses and making informed decisions before financial problems arise. The conversation also explores one of Samantha's most important lessons: your current bank balance isn't necessarily money you can afford to spend. That money may already be needed for your mortgage, rent, utilities, subscriptions, school expenses or upcoming commitments. Samantha explains how a flexible spending plan can help you see beyond your next payday, prepare for major purchases, manage irregular expenses and plan for future goals without feeling restricted or deprived. Whether you're a single parent trying to stretch a household income, a family managing rising living costs, a professional earning a comfortable salary or someone simply wondering where their money disappears each month, this episode offers practical insights. Ron and Samantha remind listeners that you don't have to become wealthy to develop better money habits. You just need to understand the numbers and create a plan that works for your circumstances. Listen to the episode and discover why a spending plan isn't about missing out – it's about making room for the life you want. Co - Host: Samantha Boardman 🌐 Website: https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au 📅 Bookings & Callbacks: Available via the website Co - Host: Ron Fiedler Senior Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Podcast City Ron is a radio and podcast host, producer, and media mentor passionate about giving people a voice and creating conversations that educate, empower, and connect communities. 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Produced by: Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Producer: Ron Fiedler

October 12, 2026Episode 5926 min

Where Does Your Money Go? The DIY Spending Plan Explained

Managing everyday money can feel exhausting when you are juggling bills, household expenses and the uncertainty of what is coming next. In this episode of Spending Made Easy, Ron Fiedler welcomes fortnightly resident expert Samantha Boardman to explore how a spending plan can help you understand your commitments and make more informed spending decisions. Their conversation focuses on building clarity, confidence and a practical picture of the months ahead. Samantha explains the story behind her DIY Spending Plan package: a client wanted access to the software so she could organise her own goals without ongoing coaching. The resulting package lets people work at their own pace, with numbered instructions and three hours of Samantha’s time available to help check their setup and understanding. They discuss how this approach may suit people who already feel comfortable managing money, as well as those seeking a clearer alternative to their existing spreadsheet. Ron and Samantha explore the difference between reviewing previous transactions and projecting upcoming income and expenses. Samantha describes the software’s visual display, how it can highlight potential shortfalls, and how users can explore changes before committing to them. They also discuss spending buffers, changing household costs and the importance of choosing the right level of support rather than selecting a package on price alone. The episode marks ten years of Spending Made Easy and includes an anniversary offer announced during the recording: 50% off the $247 DIY package with code IKNOWSAM, bringing it to $123.50. Listeners can contact Samantha to check offer availability, discuss the packages and find support that suits their circumstances. The conversation offers practical budgeting education; projections depend on the income and expense information entered and are not guarantees of future outcomes. Co - Host: Samantha Boardman 🌐 Website: https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au 📅 Bookings & Callbacks: Available via the website Co - Host: Ron Fiedler Senior Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Podcast City Ron is a radio and podcast host, producer, and media mentor passionate about giving people a voice and creating conversations that educate, empower, and connect communities. 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Produced by: Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Producer: Ron Fiedler

August 26, 2026Episode 5832 min

Money Mindset: Understanding the Feelings Behind Your Spending

Money decisions are rarely just about numbers. A bill, a shopping trip or a conversation about saving can bring up fear, pride, guilt or memories of how money was handled at home. In this episode, Ron Fiedler and Samantha Boardman speak with Carol Buchanan of Moveon Counselling about the stories people carry into their adult financial lives. Samantha shares how paying rent while living with her parents helped shape her understanding of contributing to household costs. She also reflects on receiving hand-me-downs as a child and why buying something new can still carry a special sense of achievement. Carol explains how experiences like these can influence decisions long after circumstances have changed. The conversation looks at spending for a quick lift, holding tightly to money out of fear, and feeling pressure to appear successful. Carol encourages listeners to become curious about what they think and feel before making a money decision. Awareness can create room for a different choice, particularly when an old habit is causing stress. Ron, Samantha and Carol also discuss financial learning for young people and the value of seeking help early. Their shared message is encouraging: you do not need to feel ashamed or work everything out alone. A conversation, a spending plan or emotional support can be a useful first step. Key talking points Why money can stir up strong feelings beyond the figures in a bank account. How messages heard in childhood can shape adult spending and saving. Samantha’s experience of paying rent while living at home. The different money habits that can grow from periods of uncertainty or plenty. Why some purchases offer a brief emotional lift. The pressure to look successful, even when finances are stretched. Samantha’s connection between childhood hand-me-downs and her preference for buying new. How to notice an automatic money reaction before acting on it. Why Carol suggests responding to old feelings with compassion. The difference between enjoying a planned purchase and spending in a way that creates stress. Why young people could benefit from learning about both money and emotions. Carol’s supportive approach to helping clients reach their own insights. How Samantha uses a spending plan to help clients see beyond a difficult few weeks. Why talking to someone can reduce the pressure of keeping money worries to yourself. The reassurance that support is available without judgement. Co - Host: Samantha Boardman 🌐 Website: https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au 📅 Bookings & Callbacks: Available via the website Co - Host: Ron Fiedler Senior Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Podcast City Ron is a radio and podcast host, producer, and media mentor passionate about giving people a voice and creating conversations that educate, empower, and connect communities. 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Guess: Carol Buchanan Carol Buchanan is a counsellor and clinical hypnotherapist at Moveon Counselling . With a background in nursing, she supports people experiencing stress, overwhelm and unhelpful beliefs, helping them understand their patterns and move towards change. In this episode, she brings that perspective to the emotions behind spending and saving. 🌐 https://moveoncounselling.com.au/ Produced by: Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Producer: Ron Fiedler

June 2, 2026Episode 5727 min

Busting Australia’s Biggest Money Myths

Busting Australia’s Biggest Money Myths In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by resident spending plan expert Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to challenge some of the most common money myths Australians believe. Have you ever stopped to think about what your beliefs are about money and where they actually came from? Maybe it was something your parents said, advice from a friend, something you read online, or a message you have heard so many times that you started to accept it as fact. In today’s conversation, Ron and Sam put some of these everyday money beliefs under the microscope. They discuss whether earning more money really makes financial problems disappear, whether budgeting has to feel restrictive, and whether saving money means giving up everything you enjoy in life. Sam explains why it is not always about how much income you earn, but what you do with the money you have. As she says, “It’s not about the income, it’s about the outcome.” The episode also explores why wealthy people are not always better with money, why small savings still matter, and why buy now, pay later is never truly free money. Ron and Sam also discuss the difference between a traditional budget and a flexible spending plan. While budgeting can often feel restrictive, a spending plan helps people see what is coming in, what is going out, what needs to be paid, and where there may still be room for the things they enjoy. This episode is a practical reminder that financial confidence does not come from being perfect or earning a massive income. It comes from awareness, consistency, good habits, and having a plan that works for your lifestyle. Key topics covered in this episode include: Do you really need more income to get ahead financially? Is budgeting restrictive? Does saving money mean giving up everything you enjoy? Are wealthy people naturally better with money? Can a credit card be used as an emergency fund? Is there any point in saving small amounts? Is buy now, pay later really free money? Will earning more money make financial problems disappear? Is it ever too late to improve your finances? Do most people really know their true cost of living? The biggest takeaway from today’s episode is that financial success is available to anyone, no matter what income they are on. Small changes matter, awareness is powerful, and it is never too late to start improving your financial situation. To learn more about Samantha Boardman and Spending Made Easy, visit: spendingmadeeasy.com.au If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share and subscribe, and share it with someone who may need help changing the way they think about money. Catch Ron Fiedler and Samantha Boardman again next fortnight on Spending Made Easy through the Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network.

May 6, 2026Episode 5621 min

Is Cash Still King?

Is Cash Still King? In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to ask a very timely question: is cash still king? With tap and go, digital wallets, online banking, credit cards and buy now, pay later options now part of everyday life, many people are using less cash than ever before. But while digital payments are quick and convenient, Samantha explains why cash still has an important place when it comes to understanding money, staying disciplined and keeping control of spending. Samantha proudly describes herself as a “cash girl” and shares why she believes people should always have some cash available. From technology failures and power outages to teaching children the value of money, cash can still play a powerful role in everyday life. Ron and Samantha also discuss how tap and go payments can make it easier to spend without thinking. When people are not physically handing over money, they may not always notice how much is leaving their account. Cash, on the other hand, can create more awareness. Once it is gone, it is gone, which can help people stick to limits and avoid overspending. This episode is not about saying cash is better than cards, or that digital payments are wrong. It is about understanding your own spending habits and choosing a system that helps you stay in control. Whether you prefer cash, card, digital wallets or a mix of all three, Samantha reminds listeners that the most important thing is having a spending plan that shows where your money is going. In this episode, we talk about: Why cash still matters in a digital world How tap and go can make spending feel less real Why children need to understand the value of money The importance of having cash as a backup How cash can help with discipline and spending limits Why convenience can sometimes lead to overspending How a spending plan works with both cash and digital payments The connection between awareness, control and financial confidence Key Takeaways: Cash can help people feel more connected to what they are spending. Digital payments are convenient, but they can make it easier to lose track. Having some cash available can be useful when technology or payment systems fail. Cash can be a great tool for setting limits, especially for social spending or treats. The most important thing is not whether you use cash or card, but whether you understand where your money is going. A spending plan can help you stay in control, regardless of how you pay. Contact Samantha Boardman: To learn more about Spending Made Easy, book a chat, request a callback, or find out how a spending plan can work for you, visit the Spending Made Easy website or connect with Samantha Boardman and Spending Made Easy on social media. Spending Made Easy airs every fortnight on Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network with host Ron Fiedler and resident budgeting expert Samantha Boardman. https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au/

April 22, 2026Episode 5522 min

What Success Really Looks Like With a Spending Plan

Spending Made Easy Success Stories In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to talk about real-life success stories and what can happen when people take control of their finances with the right support. Success looks different for everyone. For some people, it may mean paying rent on time, covering bills without panic, or having a little money left over for the kids. For others, it may mean paying down a mortgage, buying a car, planning for retirement, saving for a holiday, or simply feeling calmer and more confident about money. Samantha shares examples of clients who have used a spending plan to completely change the way they manage their finances. One client, Paula, started with Spending Made Easy as a single mum of five and went on to pay tens of thousands off her mortgage, buy and pay off a new vehicle, install solar panels and take full control of her money. Samantha explains that the real difference is not just having bills paid for you, but learning how to manage your own money with support, guidance and confidence. Ron and Samantha also discuss why a spending plan is helpful for people from all walks of life, whether they are on benefits, working full-time, self-employed, retired, earning a high income or managing irregular income. The episode highlights that financial success is not always about how much money you earn. It is about understanding what is coming in, what is going out, and how to make your money work better for your life. Samantha also explains how her role is similar to a mentor or personal trainer for your money. She helps people set up their spending plan, understand it, use it properly, and then continue with confidence. The goal is to move people from overwhelm to clarity, from stress to control, and from uncertainty to peace of mind. In this episode, we talk about: What financial success can look like for different people Why success is personal, not one-size-fits-all Real client stories from Spending Made Easy How a spending plan can help reduce stress Why learning to manage your own money is empowering How support and guidance can build better habits Why high-income earners, retirees and people on benefits can all benefit How small changes can lead to big results over time Key Takeaways: Success with money is not always about becoming wealthy. It can be about feeling calm, prepared and in control. A spending plan helps people understand where their money is going and what they can do with it. Spending Made Easy teaches people how to manage their own money, rather than taking control away from them. The right support can help people build confidence, reduce stress and make better financial decisions. It is always worth having a chat to see whether a spending plan could help. Contact Samantha Boardman: To learn more about Spending Made Easy, book a chat, request a callback, or find out about support options, visit the Spending Made Easy website or connect with Samantha Boardman and Spending Made Easy on social media. Spending Made Easy airs every fortnight on Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network with host Ron Fiedler and resident budgeting expert Samantha Boardman. https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au/

June 4, 2026Episode 5421 min

The Human Side of Managing Money

The Human Side of Managing Money In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to talk about why choosing the right support for your money really matters. There are budgeting apps, bank tools, spreadsheets and online programs everywhere, all promising to help people manage their finances. But as Samantha explains, while those tools can be useful, they do not always understand the real-life situations people are facing. They do not listen, offer reassurance, help unpack complicated circumstances, or provide the personal support many people need when money feels stressful or overwhelming. Ron and Samantha discuss what makes Spending Made Easy different. Rather than simply tracking what has already happened, Samantha helps clients look ahead, create a personal spending plan and feel more in control of their financial future. The focus is not on judgement or restriction. It is about support, guidance, accountability and helping people build healthier habits around money. Samantha also explains the different ways people can work with Spending Made Easy, including DIY options, six-month support and guidance, and more comprehensive packages for those with more complex needs. She shares how clients can still receive check-ins, fresh eyes and practical suggestions when they need them. This episode is a reminder that help is available, and that sorting out your money is often not as scary as it first feels. For many people, the first step is simply having a conversation with someone who will listen, understand and help them see a way forward. In this episode, we talk about: Why budgeting apps and bank tools are not always enough The value of working with a real person How a spending plan looks forward, not just backwards Why money support needs to be personal and practical The different Spending Made Easy packages available How support and guidance can help people stay accountable Why many people have more options than they realise How to take the first step with a free, no-obligation chat Key Takeaways: A budgeting app can track spending, but it cannot always offer personal support or guidance. A spending plan helps people look ahead and prepare for what is coming. Financial stress often feels worse when people try to manage it alone. Having an independent person look at your situation can bring clarity and confidence. Spending Made Easy is designed to support people without judgement and help them move forward. Contact Samantha Boardman: To learn more about Spending Made Easy, book a free chat, request a call back, or find out about upcoming masterclasses, visit the Spending Made Easy website or connect with Samantha Boardman and Spending Made Easy on social media. Spending Made Easy airs every fortnight on Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network with host Ron Fiedler and resident budgeting expert Samantha Boardman. https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au/

March 25, 2026Episode 5318 min

Why Would You Pay for a Spending Plan?

Why Would You Pay for a Spending Plan? In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to talk about a question many people quietly ask themselves: “If I’m already struggling with money, how can I afford to pay someone to help me?” It is a real concern, and in this conversation Samantha explains why a spending plan is not just another bill. It can be a practical investment in reducing stress, understanding where your money is going, and creating better habits for the future. Ron and Samantha discuss the way people often find money for everyday spending, subscriptions, takeaway, entertainment, or other wants, but hesitate when it comes to getting help with their finances. Samantha shares why paying for professional support can help people take the process more seriously, stay accountable, and actually make changes that last. This episode is not about judgement or telling people they are doing the wrong thing. It is about helping people feel more in control. Samantha explains how a spending plan can help clients pay bills on time, plan ahead, reduce financial pressure, and feel calmer about money. They also talk about the bigger impact money stress can have on everyday life, including sleep, relationships, confidence, and future goals. When people have a clear plan, they often discover they have more options than they first thought. Samantha also shares details about her free online masterclass, Why Budgeting Is Crap and What We Need to Do About It , and reminds listeners that it costs nothing to book a free, no-obligation chat to see whether Spending Made Easy is the right fit. In this episode, we talk about: Why people hesitate to pay for money support How a spending plan can reduce financial stress The value of accountability and professional guidance Why paying for a service can help people take action How better money habits can improve everyday life Why getting help is not about judgement, but support Contact Samantha Boardman: To learn more about Spending Made Easy, book a free chat, join the mailing list, or find out about upcoming masterclasses, visit Samantha’s website or connect with Spending Made Easy on social media. https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au/ Spending Made Easy airs every fortnight on Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network with host Ron Fiedler and resident budgeting expert Samantha Boardman.

June 2, 2026Episode 5220 min

Making Spending Easier, Not Reckless

Making Spending Easier, Not Reckless In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by Samantha Boardman from Spending Made Easy to unpack the meaning behind the business name and why it often starts such an interesting conversation. At first, people sometimes joke that they already find spending easy. But as Samantha explains, Spending Made Easy is not about encouraging people to be careless with money. It is about making the process of managing your spending easier, clearer and less stressful. Samantha shares how she came up with the name and why she wanted it to spark curiosity. The real meaning is simple: money comes in and money goes out. Whether it is being spent on rent, groceries, electricity, fuel, school fees, loan repayments, subscriptions, savings or holidays, it all needs to be managed. A spending plan helps people see where their money is going and make better decisions with confidence. Ron and Samantha also discuss how a spending plan can create peace of mind. When you know your bills are covered, your future expenses are planned for, and your money is working for you, everyday decisions become less stressful. You can spend intentionally, save with purpose and enjoy life without constantly worrying about what is coming next. Samantha also shares examples of how a spending plan can help people prepare for big goals such as buying a first home, reducing debt, planning a holiday, managing Afterpay or simply cleaning up their bank account. Rather than guessing or hoping everything will work out, clients can see their future finances mapped out and make informed choices. This episode is a reminder that Spending Made Easy is not about restriction or judgement. It is about structure, confidence and support. As Samantha says, she helps make spending easy by helping people understand, organise and manage where their money goes. In this episode, we talk about: Why Samantha called her business Spending Made Easy The common jokes and misunderstandings around the name Why spending is more than just buying things How bills, savings and expenses are all part of spending Why a spending plan can reduce stress and create peace of mind How planning ahead can help with holidays, homes and everyday costs Why a spending plan can help people avoid relying on Afterpay or credit How intentional spending can make life feel calmer and more manageable Key Takeaways: Spending Made Easy does not mean spending carelessly. It means making your money easier to understand and manage. A spending plan helps you see what is coming in, what is going out and what is left over. Planning ahead can reduce stress and help you make better financial decisions. When your spending is organised, you can enjoy life with more confidence and peace of mind. Contact Samantha Boardman: To learn more about Spending Made Easy, book a chat, request a callback, or find out how a spending plan can help you manage your day-to-day expenses and future goals, visit the Spending Made Easy website or connect with Samantha Boardman and Spending Made Easy on social media. Spending Made Easy airs every fortnight on Podcast City Business and Lifestyle Network with host Ron Fiedler and resident budgeting expert Samantha Boardman. https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au/

January 30, 2026Episode 5125 min

From Christmas Chaos to Calm: How to Shake the Christmas Debt Hangover

51In this episode of Spending Made Easy , Ron Fiedler is joined by resident spending planner Samantha Boardman to explore why Christmas continues to catch people out financially, even when we know it’s coming. Together, they unpack the emotional side of money — the pressure, the regret, and the shame that often follow festive overspending, and explain why this cycle repeats year after year. Importantly, they challenge the idea that the problem is a lack of discipline, revealing instead that it’s often a lack of planning and clarity. Listeners are guided through what to do when that first bank statement arrives and panic sets in. Sam explains how spending plans, not budgets, can transform financial stress into calm, control, and confidence, without restriction or guilt. This episode is for anyone who wants this year to feel different. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready to take control of your money, this conversation offers practical steps, reassurance, and hope. Resident Expert: Samantha Boardman Samantha Boardman is a professional Spending Planner and the founder of Spending Made Easy , a practical and compassionate approach to money that helps people feel calm, confident, and in control of their finances without guilt, restriction, or punishment. With years of experience working one-on-one with individuals, couples, and families, Samantha specialises in helping people break the cycle of financial stress, particularly around recurring pressure points such as Christmas, birthdays, annual bills, and everyday living costs. Her work is grounded in real life — recognising that money is emotional, personal, and often overwhelming, especially in today’s economic climate. Unlike traditional budgeting methods, Samantha teaches spending plans , not budgets. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: people don’t fail at money — money systems fail people. By creating clear, realistic spending plans that reflect how people actually live, Samantha helps her clients uncover hidden surplus, reduce anxiety, and build long-term financial confidence. Samantha is also the author of a practical, real-world book on spending planning , where she shares her personal experiences, professional insights, and proven strategies for managing money without deprivation. In the book, she openly discusses how planning ahead — even with small, consistent steps — can completely change the way people experience money, special occasions, and life milestones. Her writing reflects the same supportive, judgment-free approach she brings to her client work. As the fortnightly resident expert on Spending Made Easy on Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network, Samantha regularly shares accessible money conversations, tools, and mindset shifts that empower listeners to take action — no matter where they’re starting from. She is passionate about removing shame from financial discussions and creating safe spaces where people can ask for help and move forward with clarity. Samantha also runs highly sought-after hands-on workshops , where participants are guided step-by-step through building their own spending plans in a supportive, welcoming environment. 🌐 Website: https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au 📅 Bookings & Callbacks: Available via the website 📘 Author: Spending Plan–focused personal finance book (referenced in episode) Host: Ron Fiedler Senior Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Podcast City Ron is a radio and podcast host, producer, and media mentor passionate about giving people a voice and creating conversations that educate, empower, and connect communities. 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Produced by: Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network 🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au Producer: Ron Fiedler