The Finance Geeks Podcast

thefinancegeekspodcast

Two financial planners shoot the breeze, while sharing tips for making the most of your money and living your best life. Expect a lot of laughs and genuine insights that might just transform the way you look at your finances.

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21 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes21

Newest first

Yesterday · 35 min
The Sandwich Generation – PART 2 - Practical Strategies for Planning Family Finances
Following on from Part 1, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth move from understanding the challenges of the sandwich generation to exploring practical ways of managing them. From prioritising your own financial wellbeing to balancing the needs of children, ageing parents and retirement, they discuss how thoughtful planning can help reduce the financial, emotional and time pressures that so many families face. The conversation covers cash flow planning, budgeting, gifting strategies, estate planning, and the importance of involving the whole family in financial discussions. Warren and Paul also explain why paying yourself first, setting realistic boundaries and having a clear written financial plan can make all the difference. Whether you're living the reality of the sandwich generation or helping clients navigate it, this episode offers practical ideas to help build confidence, reduce stress and create a stronger financial future. ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
July 22 · 37 min
S4:E12 - The Sandwich Generation - PART 1 - Funding your retirement whilst supporting your family
Supporting children while caring for ageing parents has become a reality for many families. This is the first of a two-part series. In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth unpack the growing challenges faced by the sandwich generation, exploring how more people than ever are finding themselves squeezed between two generations of family responsibility. They examine the financial strain, emotional pressures and time commitments that come with supporting ageing parents while helping children find their own footing. With retirement plans often becoming the filling in the middle, it's easy for your own financial future to be overlooked as the demands from both sides continue to grow. Drawing on real-life experiences and conversations with clients, Warren and Paul explore why this balancing act has become one of the defining financial challenges of modern family life. Whether you're experiencing it yourself or advising families who are, this episode takes a closer look at the realities of being caught in the middle. The conversation continues in Episode 13, where Warren and Paul explore practical financial planning strategies to help families navigate the challenges of the sandwich generation while keeping their own retirement plans on track. ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
July 7 · 29 min
S4:E11 - The 2027 Pensions & IHT Shake-up - PART 2 - The knock-on effects you need to know
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth continue the conversation in part two of their deep dive into the 2027 pension and inheritance tax changes. If part one set the scene, this episode explores what happens when those changes start to interact — and where the real impact begins to show for financial planning. They take a closer look at how pensions, inheritance tax and wider estate strategies don’t operate in isolation, and why these changes can create knock-on effects across an entire financial plan. Like bumper cars colliding, one adjustment can send ripples through everything else. Warren and Paul discuss how different elements — from trusts and gifting to income strategies and asset positioning — can influence each other under the new rules. As always, the focus is on clarity and control. This episode looks at how planners can navigate these moving parts with confidence, helping clients avoid unintended consequences while making the most of the opportunities available. The message is simple: when the rules start to collide, thoughtful planning becomes more important than ever. ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
June 24 · 36 min
S4:E10 - The 2027 Pensions & IHT Shake-up - PART 1 - Big changes are coming, are your prepared?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth kick off the first part of a two-part conversation, unpacking the upcoming pension and inheritance tax changes arriving in April 2027 and why they matter more than many people realise. With the rules around pensions and estate planning set to shift, they explore what’s changing and how it could impact the way wealth is passed on to the next generation. They break down the key implications for financial planning, from how pensions may be treated within an estate to the knock-on effects for inheritance tax. Along the way, they discuss practical strategies planners can start thinking about now, including contribution planning, tax efficiency and the role of tools like trusts, life insurance and alternative income strategies. 2027 might feel a long way off, but when it comes to tax planning, the earlier you start, the more options you have. This is part one of a two-part episode. ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
June 10 · 45 min
S4:E9 - Markets at All-Time Highs: Should Investors Be Worried?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth climb aboard the markets at cruising altitude to tackle a question that always comes up when things are flying high: should investors be worried? With headlines shouting about record levels, it’s easy to feel like a drop could be just around the corner. But is that fear justified, or are investors simply reacting to being at new heights? They unpack what all-time highs really mean and why reaching new levels is often just part of the journey rather than a signal to change course. Like a hot air balloon, markets are influenced by a range of forces, from economic conditions to investor sentiment. Looking back at previous peaks, Warren and Paul explore what actually caused downturns and why trying to time the market can often create more problems than it solves. As always, the focus is on staying steady rather than reacting to every gust of wind. This episode looks at how investors can maintain balance through diversification, phased investing and a clear understanding of their own risk tolerance. The message is simple: markets will rise and fall, but long-term success comes from staying disciplined and focused on the bigger picture. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 6:03 - Markets at All-Time Highs: Should Investors Be Worried? ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
May 20 · 42 min
S4:E8 - The Money Map - What Money Really Means to Us
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth explore how financial planning goes far beyond numbers. They discuss the importance of aligning wealth with what truly matters to clients, helping them build a life of purpose, not just a bigger portfolio. Whether someone is early in their career or approaching retirement, the question remains the same: what is all this for? The conversation introduces the idea of a “Money Map” as a way to guide clients through deeper thinking about their goals, values and future. By encouraging more intentional thinking and better conversations, it becomes possible to design a future that delivers both financial security and genuine fulfilment. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 7:12 - The Money Map: What Money Really Means to Us ========================== Show Notes: Money Map PDF https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/d28c0y4wxql2juvk1fsj5/Your-Money-Map-Presentation-AL-v1.pdf?rlkey=urqrsudz5meq6mtdb14b0zcb9&dl=0 Naval Ravikant https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naval_Ravikant StoryTerrace - Books That Matter https://www.storyterrace.com/en-gb George Kinder: Father of Life Planning, Author, and Keynote Speaker https://www.georgekinder.com/ How To Sell Transformation Using This One Question | Strategic Coach https://www.strategiccoach.com/resources/the-multiplier-mindset-blog/how-to-sell-transformation-using-this-one-question ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
May 6 · 47 min
S4:E7 - Should Financial Planners Be Using AI? Is It a Friend or a Foe?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth explore how artificial intelligence is starting to reshape the financial planning profession. From speeding up research to improving efficiency, they break down where AI is already making an impact and why it’s becoming harder for planners to ignore. The conversation looks at both sides of the equation. On one hand, AI can automate repetitive tasks, enhance client communication and support better decision-making. On the other, there are real concerns around accuracy, bias and over-reliance on technology. Warren and Paul discuss where AI adds genuine value and where human judgement still plays a critical role. As always, the focus is on practical insight. They explore how financial planners can use AI responsibly without losing the personal touch that clients rely on. The result is a balanced look at a fast-moving topic, helping listeners understand not just what AI can do, but what it should do in the world of financial advice. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 5:37 - AI & Financial Advice: Friend or Foe? ========================== Show Notes: What Is AI – and Should You Be Worried About It? https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/tandem-thinking/what-is-ai-and-should-you-be-worried-about-it/ Learn How to Use AI – Planning Your Adventure https://planningyouradventure.co.uk/educational/learn-how-to-use-ai/ A Guide to AI https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/t0s9k8vjbm1bf210xkzw8/Tandem-AI-Guide-April-2026.pdf?rlkey=8fohfjpu8y0ybcg75cf2yjqbu&dl=0 ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
April 21 · 34 min
S4:E6 - Accumulation to Enjoyment - The Hardest Transition in Finance
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul and Warren dive into what is described as one of the hardest challenges in financial planning: helping people move from building wealth to actually enjoying it. While accumulation is often driven by clear goals, structure and habit, the shift to spending and living can feel far less certain. The conversation explores why this transition is so difficult, and why many people struggle to let go of the behaviours that helped them succeed in the first place. They unpack the mindset and emotional barriers that can hold people back, from deeply ingrained saving habits to uncertainty around what “enough” really looks like. Along the way, they share practical ways to guide this transition, including encouraging new experiences, redefining purpose beyond work, and helping clients build routines that support a fulfilling lifestyle. The idea of life’s limited window is a key theme, highlighting the importance of making the most of time rather than endlessly deferring enjoyment. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 6:14 - Accumulation to Enjoyment - The Hardest Transition in Finance ========================== Show Notes: TED Talk from Prof Riley Moyes https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/videos/video-4-x-phases-of-retirement/ 12 Questions https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ow4hhaevhdd0t5yi5kjva/AFD0dN6GKYCL4uo6P7d_coY?rlkey=936myhkbs7oxvwbvxst3zbut2&dl=0 Black Tap restaurant https://blacktap.com/restaurant-menu/london-soho/ National Maritime Museum – Greenwich https://www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
April 8 · 59 min
PFS Power Webinar - Beyond £1 Million: Building a Business That Truly Matters
In this special episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul and Warren bring a live session recorded in collaboration with the Personal Finance Society, delivering the kind of high-energy, practical discussion they’re known for. Drawing on decades of experience building successful financial planning businesses, they share what’s helped them generate strong growth while still maintaining a genuine balance between work and life. The conversation focuses on three key areas that underpin long-term success. First, mindset – covering beliefs, confidence, attitude and understanding the deeper “why” behind both personal and business decisions. Then planning – looking at the importance of having clear, structured plans, supported by the right systems, processes and people around you. And finally, action – because even the best ideas only work if they’re implemented consistently and with intent. Packed with practical insights and straight-talking advice, this episode is all about helping you move forward with clarity and purpose. Whether you’re refining your business, looking to improve your day-to-day effectiveness, or simply aiming for a better balance, Paul and Warren share the lessons, habits and thinking that have helped them build both fulfilment and long-term success.
March 25 · 37 min
S4:E4 - Why do smart people make bad money decisions? Understanding the formula
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth break down the formula behind why intelligent people often make poor financial decisions. They explore the key ingredients, including ego, overconfidence and hindsight bias, and how these can distort even the most rational thinking. The conversation looks at how behavioural factors like recency bias, anchoring and herd behaviour influence decisions, particularly in changing markets. They also examine the emotional side of investing, from regret and loss aversion to the constant urge to act, even when patience is often the better formula. Warren and Paul share practical insights to help investors and advisers recognise these patterns and make more disciplined decisions. By understanding what goes into the mix, it becomes easier to avoid costly mistakes and focus on better long-term outcomes. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 7:13 - Why do smart people make bad money decisions? ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
March 10 · 33 min
S4:E3 - Financial planning in a world that keeps changing the rules
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren and Paul explore one of the ongoing challenges of financial planning: trying to create long-term strategies in a world where the rules keep changing. From shifting tax policies to evolving pension legislation, the conversation looks at how advisers can guide clients through uncertainty while keeping plans focused on what really matters. The geeks discuss recent developments around pensions, tax allowances and policy decisions that can quickly reshape even the most carefully constructed plans. They talk about the frustration of constantly moving goalposts, including the ever-evolving story of the pension lifetime allowance, and why staying adaptable is an essential part of the job. Along the way, they share practical thoughts on reviewing plans, managing expectations and keeping perspective when the landscape changes. Rather than getting caught up in panic or predictions, the discussion focuses on how to approach change with clarity and resilience. Warren and Paul reflect on why strong principles, regular reviews and good communication can help keep financial plans on track, even when the wider policy environment feels unpredictable. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 5:57 - Planning in a World That Keeps Changing the Rules (Tax, policy, pensions — without doom.) ========================== Pauls LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/paulcleworth_healthiswealth-cairngorms-meallabhuachaille-activity-7430908103463890944-JZsG ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
February 26 · 36 min
S4:E2 - Beyond Financial Freedom: What Really Matters Next?
What happens when you’ve trained for years, crossed the finish line of financial freedom… and realise the road keeps going? In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth explore what comes next after the traditional markers of success have been ticked off. If income, assets, and independence were the race you were running, what happens when the medal is around your neck? This conversation examines the mindset shift required when financial freedom turns out not to be the final tape, but the start of a new stretch of road. They discuss why chasing “more” can feel like running on a treadmill that no longer moves you forward, and why experiences often provide deeper fulfilment than material milestones. The episode also tackles retirement not as stopping the race, but as changing pace — maintaining structure, purpose, and direction rather than drifting off course. At the heart of the conversation are the Four Cs of true wealth: connection, control, competence, and context — the foundations that give life rhythm long after the sprint for accumulation is over. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 4:47 - When "more" stops working - redefining success after financial freedom ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
February 11 · 34 min
S4:E1 - Will I Be OK? A Guiding Light in Financial Planning
In the first episode of Season 4, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth tackle the question clients are always asking, even when they don’t say it out loud: “Will I be OK?” This isn’t a spreadsheet question. It’s an emotional one. Clients don’t want certainty or perfect predictions. They want reassurance they can trust, delivered with honesty. They want to know they’re not lost, that they can orient themselves, and that they can keep moving forward safely, whatever the conditions. In this episode, Warren and Paul explore why financial planning is less about stopping storms and more about helping people navigate through them. Markets will wobble. Headlines will shout. Life will throw unexpected shocks. Good planning doesn’t promise smooth seas, but it does provide clarity, perspective, and a steady point of reference when things feel uncertain. A good financial planner, they argue, plays the role of a lighthouse. Not controlling the journey or guaranteeing calm waters, but offering guidance, reassurance, and visibility so clients can see where they are and stay on course without panic. That steady presence, combined with strong foundations, margin of safety, and flexibility, means mistakes are survivable and options remain open. Being “OK” doesn’t mean nothing bad ever happens. It means the plan holds, even when conditions change, and future decisions are made with confidence rather than fear. Ultimately, great financial planning helps people move forward not because the future is predictable, but because they know where they stand. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 7:07 - Will I Be OK? ========================== Show Notes: “Am I Going to Be OK?” – Why This Is the Only Question That Matters https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/tandem-thinking/am-i-going-to-be-ok-why-this-is-the-only-question-that-matters/ ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Dec 17, 2025 · 36 min
Episode 08: Budget Aftermath - Weathering the Fiscal Storm
In this episode, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth deliver a post-Budget forecast tailored for financial planners. With the dust settling after Rachel Reeves’ first Autumn Budget, they break down what’s changing — and what isn’t — across taxation, pensions, welfare, and public spending. It’s not just about the announcements, but the implications for client conversations and strategic planning. They explore the potential long-term effects of frozen thresholds, the subtle increases in fiscal drag, and where planners should be looking for hidden risks — and emerging opportunities. From the shifting landscape of capital gains tax to murmurs about pension reform, the geeks help you sort signal from noise. Whether you’re advising clients this week or prepping for future reviews, this episode equips you with a planner’s-eye view of the budget aftermath. It’s about more than reaction — it’s about readiness. Tune in to make sure you're prepared for whatever financial weather is coming next. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 3:27 - Budget Aftermath - Weathering the Fiscal Storm ========================== Show Notes: Budget 2025: Summary of key announcements and economic and fiscal forecasts https://lordslibrary.parliament.uk/budget-2025-summary-of-key-announcements-and-economic-and-fiscal-forecasts/ The full Budget 2025 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6929b367b3b9afff34e9621c/Final_print_HMT_Budget_2025_TEXT_PRINT_NEW.pdf Budget 2025 summary: tax rises and two-child cap scrapped https://govexplained.co.uk/budget-2025-summary/ Budget 2025: The key points at a glance | Money News | Sky News https://news.sky.com/story/budget-2025-the-key-points-at-a-glance-13475533 2025 Autumn Budget Summary (Tandem) https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=b2fc4b6dc0116f987aa61bcc8&id=4ad34e9378 Autumn Statement 2025 Spreads (Tandem) https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/autumn-statement-2025_spreads.pdf ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Dec 3, 2025 · 36 min
Episode 07: Planning for Inheritance Tax - How to help clients reduce the bill
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth unpack the often-overlooked world of inheritance tax planning. With IHT thresholds frozen and the value of estates rising, they explore the real impact this has on clients — and the critical role advisers play in helping reduce the burden. From early-stage planning to knowing when to act, they emphasise that mitigating inheritance tax is less about clever tricks and more about being proactive, structured, and informed. The conversation dives into practical strategies, including lifetime gifting, the use of trusts, and the role of protection policies to cover IHT liabilities. Warren and Paul also reflect on the psychological side of estate planning: helping clients move from a “save everything” mindset to considering how and when to pass wealth on. Their insights highlight the importance of tailoring the approach to each family’s needs, goals, and attitudes around money — not just the numbers on paper. Beyond the technical tips, the episode reinforces the importance of involving the next generation in financial conversations. Whether simplifying estates for ease of administration or making sure families understand the plan, Paul and Warren argue that clarity is the ultimate gift. With quotes, examples, and a bit of humour along the way, this is a valuable listen for anyone looking to make inheritance planning more effective and human. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 6:17 - Planning for Inheritance Tax - How to help clients reduce the bill ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Nov 19, 2025 · 45 min
Episode 06: Clients Sitting on Too Much Cash: How Do You Get Them Comfortable With Investing?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul and Warren explore the treasure-filled dungeons of client finances — where large cash reserves are tucked safely away, guarded by caution and a desire for security. With interest rates offering a short-term haven and market headlines often sounding alarm bells, it’s no surprise many clients prefer the comfort of cash. But is that the best long-term plan? From risk aversion and misunderstanding to outdated habits, they explore what’s really keeping cash locked in the vault — and how planners can help clients break free. Whether it’s reframing investment conversations, educating around long-term returns, or simply shining a torch on the emotional side of money, this episode offers practical insight into helping clients feel more confident stepping out of the safety of cash and into a better-diversified future. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 4:40 - Clients Sitting on Too Much Cash: How Do You Get Them Comfortable With Investing? ========================== Show Notes: UK savers have more than £614bn in excess cash https://on.ft.com/47JAaZ5 Latest rates https://moneyfactscompare.co.uk/savings-accounts/easy-access-savings-accounts/?utm Barclays Equity Gilt Study http://uk.investing.com/analysis/barclays-equity-gilt-study-200121844 Cost of holding cash https://www.ajbell.co.uk/news/cost-safe-haven-investing-cash-and-gilts-lose-money-real-terms Inflation holds at 3.8% https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-inflation-holds-38-september-2025-10-22/?utm ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Nov 5, 2025 · 33 min
Episode 05: Autumn Budget 2025 - Rumoured changes & how to prepare
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute fire up the speculation engine ahead of the Autumn Budget 2025. With the economic pressure mounting and a fiscal gap to fill, they explore the rumours and forecasts swirling around Rachel Reeves’ first major fiscal statement — and what financial planners should be doing right now to prepare. From possible changes to capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and pension relief, to tweaks on ISAs, NI, and VAT, the geeks break down the key tax areas under scrutiny. With clients already asking, “Should I take action before the budget?”, Paul and Warren lay out what’s being whispered in the corridors of policy — and how planners can interpret the signs without causing panic. This isn’t about panic planning — it’s about readiness. With threshold freezes, stealth taxes, and a growing national debt, the landscape demands calm analysis and proactive conversations. Whether you’re advising high earners, property investors, or business owners, this episode will help you think ahead before the Chancellor does. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 2:11 - Rachel Reeves' Upcoming Autumn Budget - Rumoured changes & how to prepare ========================== Show Notes: Tax Planning & Trusts – Tandem Financial https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/login/insight/tax-planning/ Why is the Labour Government Warning of Tax Rises, and What Should You Do? – Tandem Financial https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/tandem-thinking/why-is-the-labour-government-warning-of-tax-rises-and-what-should-you-do/ Tax Efficient Investing – Tandem Financial https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/tandem-thinking/tax-efficient-investing/ ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Oct 22, 2025 · 48 min
Episode 04: Going the Distance: Are We Ready to Plan for 100-Year Lives?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul and Warren pull on their running shoes and take on the longevity challenge — asking what it really means to financially plan for clients who might live to 100 (or beyond). The traditional retirement playbook is being stretched, and planners can’t assume the finish line is fixed at 65 plus 20 years. So, what changes when the race is longer than we ever trained for? They explore how life expectancy, health data, and shifting societal norms are reshaping retirement. From managing withdrawal strategies and sequence of returns risk, to making sure clients don’t burn through their resources in the early miles, this conversation gets into the mechanics of longevity-aware planning — and why financial planners need to think in decades, not just years. But it’s not all about the numbers. Paul and Warren also touch on identity, purpose, health, and meaning — the softer side of planning for the long game. Whether your clients are sprinting toward early retirement or pacing themselves into their 90s, this episode is packed with insights to help planners support the full journey — not just the start. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 8:34 - The Longevity Challenge: Are We Ready to Plan for 100-Year Lives? ========================== Show Notes: Jean Calment - oldest person in history https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeanne_Calment ONS Life expectancy in UK https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/lifeexpectancies/bulletins/nationallifetablesunitedkingdom/2021to2023additionaldata Two Doors in Retirement – Life Expectancy and Income Withdrawal https://tandemfinancial.co.uk/tandem-thinking/two-doors-in-retirement-life-expectancy-and-income-withdrawal/ ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Oct 8, 2025 · 45 min
Episode 03: Keeping the client on track - Has the annual review run out of steam?
In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul and Warren climb aboard the topic of annual reviews and ask whether this long-standing part of the planning timetable is still on the right track — or whether the whole process is starting to run out of steam. Are these meetings still a valuable stop on the client journey, or just a legacy carriage rolling along out of habit? Rather than sticking to a fixed schedule for the sake of tradition, Paul and Warren explore how planners can create meetings that are more intentional, more relevant, and better aligned with each client’s journey. Not every passenger needs the same route or the same number of stops — and forcing them to follow one can lead to disengagement or missed opportunities. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 5:07 - Are Annual Reviews Broken? Reinventing Client Meetings That Matter ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================
Sep 24, 2025 · 49 min
Episode 02: The Art of Being Seen – Should Every Planner Become a Content Creator
In this episode, Paul and Warren step into creative territory, asking a big question that’s facing more and more financial planners: should content creation be part of your role in 2025? With digital platforms becoming the first place clients look for credibility and connection, planners are increasingly expected to show up — not just with technical knowledge, but with a voice, a message, and a way to share it. But does that mean every planner needs to launch a podcast or start posting daily on LinkedIn? Not necessarily. Like any great piece of work, effective content comes in many forms — and Paul and Warren explore the full spectrum. From short-form videos and insightful blogs to client updates, case studies, and quiet-but-consistent newsletters, they lay out the creative options and help you figure out what fits. It’s not about being loud — it’s about being intentional. Whether you’re full of ideas or just starting to find your style, this episode is about using creativity to build trust, express your thinking, and add value long before the first meeting. And yes, sometimes that starts with picking up the brush — but you get to choose the canvas. ========================== Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 9:50 - Should Every Planner Become a Content Creator? Marketing in 2025 ========================== Show Notes: Headshots https://strikingplaces.com/ Paul's Night & Day Supplement https://www.ainslieainslie.com/ Folding treadmill https://www.fitness-superstore.co.uk/sole-f85-folding-treadmill-2.html ========================== Follow us our our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancegeekspodcast/ X: https://twitter.com/TheFinanceGeeks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancegeeks ========================== This show is designed to be informational only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. Please contact a regulated financial adviser before taking any specific action. ==========================