In this thought-provoking episode of Juggling Mind and Money, Steve and Jess unpack one of the most overlooked forces shaping our financial lives — time.

Why do we put off things we know are important — from car services to pension contributions? Why do some people rush decisions, while others delay them endlessly?

Drawing from behavioural science and financial psychology, Steve and Jess explore how our distorted sense of time drives procrastination, poor decisions, and lost opportunities.

From the optimism bias that tricks us into thinking we have “plenty of time,” to the time bias that keeps us chasing instant gratification, this episode blends research, relatable stories, and practical tools to help you regain control of your most valuable currency — your time.

They also share simple, science-backed strategies to counter time traps. If you’ve ever said “I’ll do it tomorrow” — this episode is for you.

In this episode, Steve and Jess take on one of life’s most avoided topics — protection.

From life insurance to income and health cover, they explore why people delay or dodge these crucial safeguards, even when they know better.

Steve and Jess break down the invisible barriers that keep people unprotected.

They also explore why the “abstract future” always loses to the “tangible present” — holidays feel real, insurance doesn’t.

You’ll also learn a powerful visualisation exercise that helps turn intention into action, and why talking about protection doesn’t invite bad luck — it invites peace of mind.

Don't skip Sockology as there's a fun surprise for Steve and Jess.

With Juggling Mind and Money now ranking among the top 1% of podcasts that make it past 20 episodes, Steve and Jess celebrate with gratitude — and ask listeners to help them grow further with a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review.

🎧 Next Episode: Listener Q&A with Jess

We’re turning the tables for the next episode! Jess will be answering your questions. If there’s something you’ve always wanted her take on, now’s your chance.

👉 Send your questions to steven.rowe@lucentfinancialplanning.co.uk and you might hear yours featured on the next Juggling Mind & Money episode.

Don’t wait — get them in this week!

Most people would rather insure their phone than spend money on financial protection for themselves. And who can blame them? Those products feel dull, complicated, and like money down the drain… until the worst happens.

In this episode of Juggling Mind and Money, Steve Rowe and co-host Keely (stepping in while Jess is away) tackle the essential but often ignored subject of financial protection. With wit, real-world examples, and a few sharp warnings, they reveal why protection is the unshakable foundation of any financial plan.

You’ll hear:

• Why skipping protection is like building a house of cards. Your retirement plans, travel dreams, and goals for your kids all collapse without it.
• The harsh truth about state support. From statutory sick pay to bereavement benefits, the safety net is thinner than you think.
• The four protections every family should understand. Life insurance, income protection, critical illness cover, and private medical insurance—what they are, why they matter, and how they actually work when you need them.
• The emotional side of money. Steve shares painful regrets about friends without cover, and why he believes financial planners should never ignore this part of the job.
• The psychology of avoidance. Why we’d rather play ostrich than face up to unpleasant truths—and how that puts loved ones at risk.

With a mix of practical advice and dry humour (including Steve’s take on “death wishes” and Keely’s sharp reminders for ostriches everywhere), this episode makes one thing clear: you don’t need protection because you might die—you need it because the people you love will have to carry on.

Key Takeaway: Protection isn’t glamorous, but it’s the single smartest move you can make to secure your family’s future. Sort it once, review it now and then, and hope it’s money you’ll never need—but if you do, it’ll be the best decision you ever made.