Ever feel like investing is just one big gamble?

In this episode, Steve and Jess untangle why our “caveman brains” freak out over market dips and what we can do to stay calm. From diversification and long-term thinking to quirky tricks like “worry monsters”, they explore practical ways to manage financial fear while keeping life fun.

They dive into how our brains are wired for survival, not the stock market – explaining why risk feels more dangerous than it really is. You’ll learn how to zoom out, reframe fear, and put systems in place to avoid reacting impulsively when markets move.

Whether you’re new to investing or just tired of the emotional rollercoaster, this conversation will leave you feeling a bit lighter, a bit wiser, and a lot more in control.

Grief is never just about death — it’s about loss, love, and the messiness of being human. In this episode, Steve and Jess unpack the emotional and financial layers of death and grief, offering insights on how to navigate loss without losing yourself.

From managing inherited money to knowing when to seek support, this conversation blends humour, honesty, and practical advice. You’ll hear why anger and relief are both valid emotions, how grief can show up years later, and why giving while you’re alive might be the best legacy of all.

They also explore three powerful questions to help you live more intentionally — starting now.

It’s a thoughtful, occasionally funny, always real take on life, loss, and what truly matters.

What’s investing really for? In this episode, Steve Rowe is joined by Keely Woods to unpack the truth behind investments – beyond jargon, headlines, and hype. From beating inflation and funding dream holidays to helping loved ones and retiring early, they explore the real-life reasons people choose to put their money to work.

They tackle the fears that hold people back, explain why “boring” portfolios tend to win, and reveal how diversification and compound growth quietly build wealth over time. Whether you’re new to investing or simply need reassurance, this is a grounded, inspiring conversation about how money can help you live a better life — not just a richer one.

Inheritance Tax affects more families than ever — yet too many leave it to chance.

In this episode, we explore the key tools for effective estate planning, including gifting, trusts, and life cover.

Whether you want to support your children, give to charity, or simply keep more of your wealth in the family, this is a conversation worth having.

Pensions might not sound thrilling, but this episode of Juggling Mind and Money proves otherwise. Lucent Financial Planning’s very own Luke James steps in alongside host Steve Row—and brings a healthy dose of enthusiasm, insight, and dinosaur-themed sock humour to the mic.

They unravel the mystery of pensions—from the flexibility of Defined Contribution schemes to the predictability of Defined Benefit plans—breaking down the jargon and mental barriers that often stop people from engaging with their financial future. You’ll also learn why pensions are a powerful tool for business owners, how tax relief turns savings into “free money”, and why relying on property alone might be a retirement plan built on sand (or bricks you can’t eat).

Plus: socks, legacy planning, and how Luke used a financial plan to retire his dad. Yes, really.

Don’t miss this sharp, down-to-earth chat packed with smart insights and a touch of playful raptor energy.

In this heartfelt episode, Steve Row is joined by Teresa Meredith – a long-time client of Lucent Financial Planning – who steps in as guest co-host.

Theresa shares the story of how she and her husband Phil made the leap into early retirement, the challenges they faced along the way, and how having the right support made all the difference.

From their first nervous meeting to navigating personal loss, serious illness, and big life transitions, their journey highlights the real impact of thoughtful financial planning – and the value of simply being listened to.

This conversation offers a genuine look at the human side of retirement, community, and what it means to feel secure through life’s ups and downs.

They’ve done the hard part — worked, saved, and built a sizeable nest egg. So why are so many retirees paralysed when it comes to spending their own money?

In this episode of Juggling Mind & Money, Steve and Jess dive into the strange reality of retirement underspending — where even millionaires struggle to loosen the purse strings. It’s not about maths; it’s about mindset.

We explore the psychological blocks that stop people enjoying what they’ve earned:

- fear of running out,

- guilt around indulgence,

- and the deep identity built around saving, not spending.

Steve shares how financial planning can create “permission to spend” through smart strategies like simulated income and stress testing, while Jess explains why no amount of money calms anxiety if the brain still thinks it’s broke.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or advising someone who is, this episode is your guide to turning wealth into well-being — before it’s too late to enjoy it.

Is retirement a recipe for relaxation—or social isolation?

In this episode of Juggling Mind and Money, Steve and Jess dive into the less talked about side of retirement: losing the social buzz that comes with the 9-to-5.

From awkward silences to watercooler withdrawals, we explore why making friends as an adult is harder than it sounds—and what you can actually do about it. Plus, how money plays a role in staying connected and why a solid financial plan might just buy you more than security… it could buy you happiness (or at least some decent company).

Expect wit, wisdom, and a few confessions about lonely weeks and dodgy TV habits.

Whether you’re nearing retirement, already there, or just curious about what’s beyond the payslip, this one’s for you.