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Episode 133 – Beyond Inheritance with Sharath Jeevan In this episode, chartered financial planner at Ovation Finance, Clémence Chatelin sits down with Sharath Jeevan to explore legacy. Not simply as the money we leave behind, but as the mark we make while we are here. Sharath talks about the shift from success to significance, how families can think more intentionally about the next generation, and why the financial side of legacy should support a much wider conversation about values, purpose, identity and what we want to help others build. Welcomes & Introductions Tom Morris – Managing Director and Chartered Financial Planner at Ovation Finance. Bristol-based, chartered, B Corp Certified and proudly employee owned. Clémence Chatelin – Chartered Financial Planner and Head of Investments at Ovation Finance. This episode marks the start of a new interview-led series, with Clem introducing guests from her work and wider network in sustainability, finance and beyond. Fancy a chat with Tom, Clem and the team at Ovation? Contact details can be found on the Ovation Finance website. What’s on Today’s Podcast? A chat with Sharath Jeevan about legacy, intergenerational planning and what it means to move from success towards significance. Sharath works with organisations, family businesses and individuals to think about long-term impact and legacy. His work looks beyond the traditional financial definition of inheritance and asks a broader question: what are we actually trying to leave behind? He also teaches at Oxford’s Saïd Business School and has used stand-up comedy and fiction as ways of exploring some of these ideas. Interview with Sharath Jeevan Why legacy is about more than inheritanceThe financial side of legacy as an enabler, not the whole storyThe danger of adopting somebody else’s definition of successBuilding the future with the next generation rather than for themHelping younger generations thrive in a world that looks very different from the one we knewWhat “enough” can mean in financial planningHow financial security can create more freedom to take risks and make changesWhy family conversations matter before money changes handsThe importance of openness around money, values and expectationsHow parents can support children without defining their path for themWhat fairness can look like across siblings with very different livesHow financial structures can support different career choicesWhy financial security should allow the next generation to be more adventurous, not lessThe role of parents in helping younger people build support networks and confidenceHow families can pass on wisdom as well as wealth Conclusions from the Chat One of the strongest themes running through the episode is that legacy should not begin with a financial product or an inheritance plan. It begins with a conversation. What kind of family do we want to be? What values matter to us? What do we want our money to help the next generation do? And how do we support children as individuals, rather than expecting them to follow the same path? That is where financial planning can play an important role. The conversation also highlights the importance of involving the next generation early. Legacy, in that sense, is not simply what you leave behind. It is what you help others build. Sharath Jeevan is an expert on legacy and generational success. He works with organisations, family businesses and individuals to think about long-term impact, significance and the conditions they want to create for future generations. He also teaches at Oxford’s Saïd Business School and writes and speaks about leadership, legacy and intergenerational thinking.

Episode 132 – Sense of Coherence In this episode, the guys explore why some people seem better able to cope with stress than others, and what that might teach us about our relationship with money. The conversation centres around a psychological model called Sense of Coherence. It may sound academic, but the ideas behind it are surprisingly practical. Can we understand what is happening? Do we have the resources to deal with it? And does dealing with it feel meaningful enough to deserve our attention? Welcomes and Introductions Chris Budd – Author of the original Financial Wellbeing book and founder of the Financial Wellbeing movement. Tom Morris – Managing Director and Chartered Financial Planner at Ovation Finance. Bristol-based, chartered, B Corp Certified and proudly employee owned. Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Tight Ass Tommo Chris has a suggestion for creating a nice surprise for your future self. And Tom goes for the childhood favourite, blackberry picking – just remember to pick above dog height! Why Does Money Cause So Much Stress? Money worries do not only affect people who do not have enough. Clients can also worry about whether they have enough, where they should invest it and what might happen if they lose it. The question Chris asks is whether understanding how we respond to stress could help us develop a better relationship with money. What Is a Sense of Coherence? The model was developed by medical sociologist Aaron Antonovsky as a way of exploring why some people cope with stressful situations better than others. Three Things That Can Help The model describes three components of a strong sense of coherence; Comprehensibility Manageability Meaningfulness Where Financial Planning Helps A financial plan can help bring structure to those unknowns. It cannot guarantee that life will always go to plan. Nothing can. But understanding where you are, knowing what resources are available and seeing how your money connects to the life you want can make difficult financial decisions feel considerably more manageable. Final Thoughts A strong sense of coherence does not mean eliminating every stressful situation. It is about being better equipped when one arrives. When it comes to money, that could mean: understanding your own financial positionhaving tools and people available to helpknowing what you want your money to help you achieve It is not necessarily about getting richer. It is about developing a better relationship with money and feeling more able to deal with the financial questions life throws your way.

Episode 131 – Preparing for Change with Steve Johnson In this episode, the guys are joined by Steve Johnson, founder of the Wellbeing Science Institute, for a fascinating conversation about elite sport, financial wellbeing and preparing for change. Steve explains why supporting an athlete means looking beyond performance. From finances and relationships to identity, career and emotional wellbeing, a whole-person approach can help athletes perform at their best while also preparing for life beyond sport. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance and the financial wellbeing movement. Tom Morris – Managing Director of Ovation Finance. Award winning, Bristol-based, chartered, B-Corp certified and employee-owned. Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? A chat with Steve Johnson, founder of the Wellbeing Science Institute. Steve began his career as a personal trainer and sports psychologist before moving through management, financial services and investment management. For the last 12 years, his work has returned to elite sport. His wellbeing programmes take a holistic approach, helping athletes consider not just sporting performance, but their physical, psychological, emotional, relationship, community, career and financial wellbeing. Tight Ass Tommo Light-hearted money saving tips, guaranteed to make you smile and think twice about your spending habits. This time, food is on the menu. Chris suggests going vegetarian to cut one of the more expensive parts of the weekly food shop, while Tom makes the case for visiting your local butcher. Better quality, support for a local business and, depending on what you buy, it might not cost any more. Interview with Steve Johnson Looking at the whole person, not just sporting performanceWhy financial wellbeing matters for elite athletesThe pressures of earning significant sums at a young ageIdentity, status and the question of “Who am I?”Knowing who to trust when money and success arrive quicklyWhy most elite athletes struggle to make a livingThe financial challenges facing women in professional sportStaying at the elite level, not simply getting thereFinancial literacy and the influence of agentsWhy wellbeing can be a performance enablerPreparing for injury, changing contracts and the end of a sporting careerNormalising change rather than treating transition as unexpectedThe importance of understanding who you are and what matters to youThe losses athletes can experience when they stop competingWhat elite sport can teach us about retirement, selling a business and redundancyWhy financial education needs to start earlier and feel relevant to young people Conclusions from the Guys Reflecting on the interview, David highlights Steve’s approach of starting with the person rather than focusing solely on results, contracts or performance. Tom reflects on how easy it is in sport, and in life generally, to become focused on the outcome. Paying more attention to wellbeing and the process along the way can help people enjoy what they are doing, while potentially supporting better outcomes too. Chris picks out two particularly important ideas from the conversation. The first is normalising change. Whether it is an athlete facing injury, somebody retiring, a business owner selling their company or somebody being made redundant, change should not necessarily be treated as an unexpected event. Recognising that transitions are a normal part of life gives us an opportunity to prepare for them. The second is not defining ourselves solely through our job, status, income or wealth. Chris reflects on business owners who spend years preparing their company for sale, only to complete the transaction and suddenly ask themselves, “Who am I?” Preparing financially for a transition matters. Preparing the person for what comes afterwards matters too. Steve Johnson is the founder of the Wellbeing Science Institute. After beginning his working life as a personal trainer and sports psychologist, Steve went on to work in management, financial services and investment management before returning to elite sport. He developed what he describes as the world’s first elite athlete wellbeing management programme, working with both athletes and the people who support them. His approach considers the whole person, helping athletes to perform while also building the skills and self-understanding that can support a fulfilling life beyond sport.

Episode 130 – What If Your Financial Goals Are Wrong? In this episode, David Lloyd is joined by Chris Budd and Tom Morris to ask a deceptively simple question: Are the goals we are working towards actually likely to make us happier? Along the way, there is a tenth anniversary, free museums, homemade kitchen islands, unrealistic sporting ambitions and an important conversation about the difference between accumulating money and using it to support a meaningful life. Welcomes and Introductions Chris Budd – Reflects on the tenth anniversary of The Financial Wellbeing Book and the impact its ideas have had since publication. Tom Morris – Managing Director of Ovation Finance. Award winning, Bristol-based, chartered, B-Corp certified and employee-owned. Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Tight Ass Tommo Featuring free museums, YouTube tutorials and reusing old parts of your house in DIY projects. Are Your Goals Making You Happier? Setting objectives is generally seen as good advice. Financial plans need goals. Athletes work towards targets. Businesses need direction. People who focused mainly on financial success reported lower life satisfaction over time. Goals connected to relationships, helping others and social involvement were more likely to improve wellbeing. That does not mean wanting a comfortable home, financial security or nice possessions is wrong. It means those goals need to sit alongside the things that give life meaning. Goals and Motivations Tom explains the difference between a goal and a motivation. A goal usually has an endpoint, such as retiring at a certain age, buying a house or completing a qualification. A motivation is often ongoing. It might involve creativity, purpose, pride or helping others. Some motivations are intrinsic, meaning we pursue them because they matter to us. Others are extrinsic, meaning we pursue them to impress or please someone else. Understanding the difference can help us decide whether an objective genuinely belongs to us. The Cost of the Wrong Objective Imagine working longer hours for years to buy a bigger house, only to realise that the original house was perfectly adequate. The financial target has been achieved, but the cost may have been time with family, friendships or neglected interests. A goal can be financially successful and still fail to improve your life. Are Your Goals Achievable? Dreams have value, but our happiness should not depend entirely on something unrealistic. The episode recalls Olympic diver Leon Taylor, who became so focused on winning a medal that the goal caused stress and unhappiness. Once he refocused on his love of diving, he performed at his best and won an Olympic silver medal. The lesson is not to stop stretching yourself. It is to find the right balance between ambition, enjoyment and reality. Three Questions to Review Your Goals The team suggests asking yourself: When do you feel most excited and energised?Who or what do you want to make a difference to?How do you want to help? Your answers may point towards family, creativity, community, charitable work, learning, teamwork or simply having more time available. You do not need one grand life purpose. Something purposeful is enough. Where Financial Planning Helps Many people assume they need more money than they actually do to feel secure. They continue saving and delaying the things they want to do because they are unsure what is possible. Cashflow planning can help test different ideas. Could you reduce your working hours? Retire earlier? Help your children now? Travel more? Return to an old hobby? A good financial plan does not simply tell you how much money you have. It helps you understand what that money can make possible. Final Thoughts Everybody has a financial plan, even if it has never been written down. The important question is whether that plan is leading towards something meaningful. Review your objectives and ask: If I achieve these goals, what will actually be better about my life? If the answer is unclear, it may be time to discuss them with your Financial Planner.

Episode 129: What are you building towards with John Moore In this episode of The Financial Wellbeing Podcast, Chris Budd is joined by his friend John Moore for a moving conversation about success, trauma, purpose and what really brings wellbeing. John shares how building and selling a successful business, followed by a terrible accident, changed the direction of his life. They explore impatience, listening to your inner voice and why happiness comes from relationships, purpose and connection, not accumulation. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and author of the original Financial Wellbeing Books, you can view all three here Fancy a chat with Tom Morris, Chartered and award winning Financial Planner at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? In this episode of the Financial Wellbeing Podcast, Chris Budd is joined by his friend John Moore for a conversation about success, trauma, purpose and what it really means to live well. John was a successful businessman who had built and sold a company, cleared mortgages and created freedom and choice in his life. Then one decision changed everything. But this is not just a story about what happened to John. It is a story about what he learned afterwards. Tight Ass Tommo Light-hearted money saving tips, guaranteed to make you smile and think twice about your spending habits. David shares a cautionary tale about dogs, vets and why pet insurance can be a very good idea. Producer Tommo also brings us a listener-submitted Tight-Ass Tommo tip from financial planner Darren Cook, involving teenage children, Saturday jobs and handy staff discounts. Interview with John Moore John’s early career, business success and selling his first companyWhy he planned to divide his time between business, community and charityThe accident that left him in hospital for nearly five weeksLearning to forgive yourself after a serious mistakeWhy impatience can be both a strength and a weaknessListening to your inner voice and the warning bells we sometimes ignoreThe search for purpose after a major life eventWhat John learned from working in careBuilding a business around joy, values and human connectionWhy happiness does not come from accumulationHow relationships, purpose and connection support financial wellbeing Conclusions from the Guys Life is short, fragile and precious. Money matters, of course. A good financial plan can create choice, security and confidence. But the point of that plan is not just to have enough. It is to use what you have to build a life that means something. Ask yourself What are you building towards? And is it still the life you actually want?

Episode 128 – The Fisherman Parable In this episode of the Financial Wellbeing Podcast, we visit the well-known Fisherman Parable: a story about money, happiness and what it really means to have enough. Chris, David and Producer Tommo explore why the parable is useful, but perhaps a little too simple. Money may not be the source of happiness, but it can provide security, choice and peace of mind. The real question is not just “how much is enough?” but “enough for what?” Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, author of The Four Cornerstones of Financial Wellbeing, trustee of a hospice and, as someone else once described him, the “grandfather of financial wellbeing.” Tom Morris – Managing Director of Ovation Finance. Award winning, Bristol-based, chartered, B-Corp certified and employee-owned. Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Tight Ass Tommo Featuring long-running manga series One Piece on BBC iPlayer, selling your car and not ironing your shirts! The Fisherman Parable Explained There was this chap lazing on the beach, sipping a beer. He’s fishing with his rod propped up beside him, and he lives in a grass hut on the shore with his family. A businessman comes up to him and asks the fisherman, “How many fish have you caught?” And the fisherman replies, “Three. Enough for my family for supper. I’m going to go and have a siesta soon.” So the businessman replies, “You know what, you could catch a lot more fish if you tried a bit harder.” And the fisherman says, “Well, why would I do that?” And the businessman says, “Because as well as having fish for yourself and your family, you’d have more that you could then sell for a profit.” The fisherman replies, “Then what would I do?” And the businessman says, “Well, with that profit from the sale of the extra fish, you could buy a boat. Then you could catch even more fish and make more profit. Then you could buy yourself another boat and pay someone to go out and fish for you. “After a while, you could have a whole fleet of fishing boats catching and selling loads of fish, making lots of profit.” And the fisherman replies, “Then what would I do?” “Wow,” the businessman says, “you could use the profit to perhaps build a nice bar on the beach that can then create more profit. You can use that profit to build some hotels. And within a few years, you’d be a very wealthy man.” And then the fisherman asks, “Then what would I do?” And the businessman says, “Well, then you could be so wealthy you wouldn’t have to work at all, and you could spend your time lazing on the beach, sipping beer and fishing.” What is that parable is all about then? Why the Parable Is Too Simple Link to Episode 113 – Maslow, Money and Happiness Episode 125 – Feeling Financially Safe Real-Life Examples of Financial Wellbeing Start With Happiness, Not Money What Would the Fisherman’s Financial Plan Look Like? Conclusions From The Guys

Episode 127: Thinking Clearly About Money with John Dashfield In this episode, the guys are joined by financial coach John Dashfield for a thoughtful conversation about money, mindset and decision-making. John explains why our state of mind has such a powerful effect on the financial choices we make. When we are stressed, fearful or mentally busy, money can feel heavier than it needs to. But when the mind settles, we often find we are better able to make clear, thoughtful decisions. The episode also explores the difference between intellect and insight, why money worries are not always about the money itself, and how creating a little space in our lives can help improve financial wellbeing. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and author of the original Financial Wellbeing Books, you can view all three here Fancy a chat with Tom Morris, Chartered and award winning Financial Planner at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? A chat with John Dashfield, a former financial adviser who now works as a financial coach and transformation coach. John’s work focuses on thinking, particularly how our thinking affects our experience of money. Tight Ass Tommo Light-hearted money saving tips, guaranteed to make you smile and think twice about your spending habits. This time we explore leaving items in your online shopping basket Interview with John Dashfield Challenging your own assumptionsThe role of thought in financial decisionsWhy money can feel so emotionalCan we control our thoughts?Insight versus intellectPhysics versus engineeringSlowing down the busy mind Conclusions from the Guys Reflecting on the interview, David says his key takeaway is that we need to create space for the mind to relax. Tom reflects on the connection between John’s message and the recent conversation with George Kinder. Both point towards mindfulness, presence and the importance of giving the mind room to settle. Chris adds that happiness takes work. We do not simply wake up one day with life perfectly arranged around us. We need to be proactive, especially when it comes to money, because money worries are one of the biggest sources of stress. John Dashfield is a financial coach and transformation coach with a long background in financial services. After beginning his career in the 1980s, John worked as a financial adviser before selling his practice and moving into coaching. He now works with financial professionals, business owners and individuals, helping them understand their thinking, improve decision-making and develop a healthier relationship with money. Want to know more? Connect with John on LinkedIn

Episode 126 – Why Money Should Support Life with George Kinder This episode is a thoughtful look at financial wellbeing from a broader perspective. The guys are joined by George Kinder, one of the best-known names in financial life planning. They explore why good financial planning starts with listening, not just number-crunching, and discuss George’s well-known three questions that help people think more deeply about what matters most. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and author of the original Financial Wellbeing Books, you can view all three here Fancy a chat with Tom Morris, Chartered and award winning Financial Planner at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? A chat with financial planning legend George Kinder – exploring why good financial planning starts with listening, not just number-crunching, and discuss George’s well-known three questions that help people think more deeply about what matters most. Tight Ass Tommo Light-hearted money saving tips, guaranteed to make you smile and think twice about your spending habits. This time gambling and and how to avoid being a good host when people visit! Interview with George Kinder Why listening matters so much in financial planningGeorge explains that the quality of advice depends on the quality of the listening that comes before it. The real skill is not jumping straight to solutions, but taking the time to understand what matters most to someone. The three questions George Kinder is known forChris asks George to share the famous three questions he uses to help people think more clearly about their lives. These questions move the focus away from money and towards meaning, priorities and what really matters. Why money should support life, not dictate itA central theme of the episode is that many people do not have a money problem as such. They have a clarity problem. They may be doing fine financially, but still not know what they want their money to help them do. Stories of life planning in actionGeorge shares examples of clients whose priorities became clearer through conversation. One client realised that what mattered most was not earning more, but having more time with his children. Another moved much sooner than expected towards a long-held dream. The dream of freedomGeorge talks about what he means by freedom, not as a slogan, but as a way of describing a life that feels meaningful, aligned and true to what matters most. The link between mindfulness, coaching and financial planningThe discussion also explores mindfulness, presence and emotional intelligence, and why these are more connected to financial planning than many people might think. Fiduciary in All ThingsGeorge introduces his latest project, which argues that organisations should place truth, democracy, people and planet ahead of self-interest. It is a wider conversation about trust, responsibility and the kind of society we want to build. Conclusions from the guys Reflecting on the key themes from the interview: The challenge and value of active listening, especially in financial planning. How difficult many people find it to imagine what comes next, especially around retirement or life after selling a business. Retirement, free time and how identity and work can be more closely tied than we sometimes realise. George Kinder is widely recognised as the father of the life planning movement. Through his writing, teaching and the Kinder Institute of Life Planning, he has helped shape a more human approach to financial planning, one that puts people, purpose and meaning at the centre of the conversation. For further information, people can visit the Kinder Institute of Life Planning for his work on life planning and the well-known Three Questions

Universal Basic Income: Would It Make Us Happier? In this episode, David Lloyd is joined by Chris Budd and Tom Morris to explore this hotly debated idea, UBI, but through a financial wellbeing lens rather than a political one. Along the way, there’s community joy, reused tea bags, Maslow’s pyramid, behavioural psychology and what all of this might mean for parents supporting their children, as well as those approaching retirement. Welcomes and Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, author of The Four Cornerstones of Financial Wellbeing, trustee of a hospice and, as someone else once described him, the “grandfather of financial wellbeing.” Tom Morris – Managing Director of Ovation Finance. Award winning, Bristol-based, chartered, B-Corp certified and employee-owned. Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Tight Ass Tommo Tom’s money-saving tip this week involves former England cricketer Jack Russell. Rumour has it he would hang up his tea bags between uses and reuse them later. Whether for sustainability or savings, the lesson is clear: small habits can save money. (Although David points out his mum was doing this decades ago.) Chris’ Good News Before diving into economics, the team share their regular feature: Joy Baiting – the antidote to online “rage bait.” Tom shares a story from a local mini rugby festival: 500+ children aged 6–12, countless volunteers organising parking, food stalls, refereeing and coaching — all creating a joyful community event. This Episode So… What Is Universal Basic Income? In this episode we look at a non-political Exploration. Universal Basic Income (UBI) is the idea that every adult receives a fixed income from the government, regardless of their circumstances. It’s: Not means-tested Not dependent on employment The same amount for everyone Simple in theory to administer Importantly, the discussion here is not about politics or affordability – but about what UBI tells us about the relationship between money and happiness. For context, if the UK paid everyone roughly £400 per month, it would cost around £200 billion a year — more than the NHS budget. So yes, it’s expensive. But what about the wellbeing implications? Maslow’s Hierarchy and Financial Security Maslow’s hierarchy of needs suggests we must satisfy basic needs — food, shelter, safety — before we can pursue higher goals like belonging, esteem and creativity. If someone is anxious about survival, it’s extremely difficult for them to move “up the pyramid.” Financial planners see this constantly — particularly with people approaching retirement. Until clients feel secure, they struggle to explore purpose or joy. So the question becomes: Would guaranteeing a basic income help people move up Maslow’s pyramid – or make them lazy? Does Financial Stress Motivate — or Paralyse? There are two competing views: View 1: Financial pressure motivates people to work harder. View 2: Financial pressure creates anxiety that paralyses people. To explore this, Chris consulted behavioural finance expert Neil Bage, who pointed him to the Yerkes-Dodson Law. The Yerkes-Dodson Law A little anxiety improves performance. Too much anxiety harms performance. Financial stress often sits firmly in the “too much” category. When people are overwhelmed by money worries: Their mental capacity shrinks They focus only on short-term survival Decision-making deteriorates Research shows that when people worry about paying bills, cognitive performance drops significantly. Real-World Examples David shares two personal examples: As an actor, nerves enhanced performance. As a novice pianist recording an exam, anxiety completely undermines it. The difference? Confidence and perceived control. Similarly, financial anxiety can either sharpen focus – or overwhelm entirely. Chris recounts how severe financial stress led his father to stop opening bills altogether — anxiety became paralysing rather than motivating. What Does the Research Say About UBI? Several trials have been conducted: Canada (1970s) Reduced mental health diagnoses Very few people stopped working Those who did were mainly new mothers and teenagers choosing to study Finland (2017–2018) 2,000 unemployed people received ~£500 per month No obligation to work Improved wellbeing Reduced mental strain Some started businesses or provided family care Overall economic impact: minimal Ongoing UK and Welsh trials Still awaiting results. So… Does It Work? From a wellbeing perspective: yes. UBI appears to: Reduce anxiety Improve mental clarity Improve wellbeing Enable better decision-making From a purely economic perspective:There’s no strong evidence yet of significant economic growth benefits. Why Isn’t It Implemented? It’s politically divisive. It’s extremely expensive. It would require dismantling and rebuilding the welfare system. Some argue it should be means-tested rather than universal. But the economic arguments may be missing a key point: The wellbeing benefits are significant. A Lesson for Financial Planning Financial planners often help clients answer: “How much is enough?” But perhaps they should also help answer: “What’s the minimum we need to avoid falling into anxiety?” Final Thoughts Universal Basic Income may or may not be politically viable. But the psychology is clear: A guaranteed level of financial security reduces anxiety and increases wellbeing. And that principle applies whether you’re: Designing public policy Supporting your children Or planning your own financial future

Episode 124 – Money and Meaning with Daniel Crosby What is money really for? In this episode of the Financial Wellbeing Podcast, Chris Budd is joined once again by behavioural finance expert and author Daniel Crosby to explore the deeper relationship between money, happiness, and meaning. Daniel’s latest book, The Soul of Wealth, moves beyond traditional behavioural finance to ask how money can support a life that feels fulfilling, connected, and purposeful. Together, Chris and Daniel discuss comparison, gratitude, social influence, the role of luck, and why understanding people’s stories matters just as much as understanding their finances. This is a thoughtful and wide ranging conversation about using money well, not just managing it efficiently. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and author of the original Financial Wellbeing Books, you can view all three here Fancy a chat with Tom Morris, Chartered and award winning Financial Planner at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? Why behavioural finance has evolved to include happiness and meaning The dangers of comparing yourself to others and how reference points affect satisfaction The power of social influence on money habits How simple gratitude practices can boost wellbeing Making your future self feel more real to support better decisions The role of luck and why acknowledging it can encourage generosity Tight Ass Tommo Lighthearted money saving tips, guaranteed to make you smile and think twice about your spending habits. Interview with Daniel Crosby The core conversation covers: The emotional story behind financial decisions and why empathy matters How money influences wellbeing beyond traditional financial outcomes Why your environment and role models are powerful predictors of behaviour Practical ways to build salience for your future goals Insights from The Soul of Wealth that people can apply in their daily lives Conclusions from the guys Reflecting on the key themes from the interview: Understanding money’s role in life requires looking beyond numbers Compassion and curiosity help uncover underlying financial motivations Small practices like gratitude and future visualisation can make a meaningful difference

What if the secret to financial wellbeing isn’t just in what you earn or spend, but in how you think? In this episode the guys are looking to see if we can do anything to improve our thinking and thereby improve our wellbeing. Along with the usual TightAssTommo money saving tips we have a thoughtful episode just for you! Welcomes and Introductions Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? Exploring the issue of thinking – is it something that just happens or do we have some control over it so we can improve our relationship with money and wellbeing? Tight Ass Tommo Go and watch women’s sport, a great way to see quality sport at a fraction of the cost. Chris’ Good News A new feature, do share your name ideas for future episodes in the comments below! This time, a sauna in Somerset that promotes social wellbeing. This Episode How do we think, what gets in the way and how can we think better? The Questions That Unlock Real Happiness Thinking well begins with asking the right questions. Try asking yourself: What really matters to me? What brings me joy and meaning? Whose expectations am I trying to meet? Will this decision make me happy in the long term? One of our advisers describes this as “daring to dream.” It is the courage to ask honest questions, even when the answers might challenge the path you are on. The right questions bring not confusion, but freedom. Thinking Tools That Make a Difference A few simple shifts in perspective can make a big difference. Look beyond first impressions. If something seems like the key to happiness, pause and ask, What happens next? Spot your zero. Notice one thing that could cancel out your progress — the habit or belief that quietly undermines your wellbeing. Focus on what is truly yours. Choose goals that reflect your own values, not those that rely on the approval of others. When your goals come from within, they lead to satisfaction that lasts. Conclusions From The Guys

Episode 122 – Money, Purpose and Community with Jonathan Ruffer In this episode of The Financial Wellbeing Podcast, the guys explore how wealth, when used with purpose, can create extraordinary change. They’re joined by philanthropist Jonathan Ruffer, who shares the remarkable story of how he has devoted his resources to revitalising the town of Bishop Auckland. Along the way, we reflect on the dangers of money without meaning, the importance of community, and how finding purpose can enrich every stage of life – especially when approaching retirement. Welcomes & Introductions Chris Budd – Founder of Ovation Finance, the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and author of the original Financial Wellbeing Books, you can view all three here Fancy a chat with Tom Morris, Chartered and award winning Financial Planner at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? Our chat with Jonathan Ruffer around how he has used his wealth in an extraordinary way through The Auckland Project, helping to transform the community of Bishop Auckland. Jonathan talks about purpose, education, community spirit, and the lessons learned from putting money to work for the benefit of others. Tight Ass Tommo The Borrow Box app for free audio books from your library. Always check eligibility for rail cards – two together for couples you can get 1/3rd off rail fair if you travel together Interview with Jonathan Ruffer How Jonathan became involved in Bishop Auckland and the vision behind The Auckland Project. Why wealth can be dangerous when it lacks direction or purpose. Reflections on how money can both distort and enrich lives, and why defining your own purpose is essential to financial wellbeing. Education and community engagement were central to Jonathan Ruffer’s vision for The Auckland Project. The role of education in creating long-term change. The importance of engaging local people in community transformation. Conclusions from the guys Avoid the deadly retirement Come and speak to Ovation Finance, who want to talk with you about what you want your retirement to look like Retirement often comes with baggage and many people don’t like the word. Producer Tommo often finds people don’t like being pushed into retirement but pulled towards something else. Find Out MoreThe Auckland Project is a remarkable initiative bringing new life, education, and opportunity to the town of Bishop Auckland. From restoring historic landmarks to enriching local schools and building a stronger community spirit, it’s a shining example of how purpose and philanthropy can create lasting change. To discover more about their work and how you can plan your visit, come and take a look – www.theaucklandproject.org.

Episode 121 – Financial Infidelity In this episode of The Financial Wellbeing Podcast, we’re lifting the lid on a tricky topic: financial infidelity. What does it really mean? How can it show up in everyday life? And most importantly – how can you spot it, talk about it, and navigate it with your partner? Whether you’re looking to strengthen financial trust, avoid money pitfalls, or just enjoy some honest money talk with a dash of humour, this episode is for you. Welcomes and Introductions Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Whats on Today’s Podcast Exploring what financial infidelity means and how to avoid or navigate it. Link to Episode 120 and our chat with Dr Megan McCoy Tight Ass Tommo Featuring the #tightasstommo origin story, a mobile phone loyalty trick from Chris Hull and odd rail card options. Come and get involved! We want to hear your Messages From the Future. Record a short, 30-second message, sharing a decision you’re glad you made (or one you regret) to help others make better choices. Send your voice clips to [email protected] and join the conversation. This episode: What “financial infidelity” can mean, how to define it Everyday examples where it can happen Chris’s personal story of family bankruptcy Tom’s practical tip for guilt-free budgeting Tamzin Caine’s tips Smart Divorce Podcast link What ever the reason, hiding any aspect of your life from your partner is going to lead to issues in the relationship Tamzin Cane Arrange regular money dates with calm conversationsCouples counsellingIndividual supportFind support, such as The Brightside app / Surviving Economic Abuse Conclusions From The Guys

Episode 120 – Money Stories with Dr Megan McCoy In this episode, we chat with Dr. Megan McCoy a financial therapist about money stories—the beliefs we form about money based on childhood, family, and past experiences. A warm and insightful conversation about why we behave the way we do with money, and how understanding those patterns can lead to better financial wellbeing. Welcomes & Introductions Want to know more about Chris Budd’s The Financial Wellbeing Pulse? Have a listen to Episode 110 here.Producer Tommo – Director and Chartered Financial Planner at the award winning, employee owned and B Corp certified Ovation Finance! Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Producer Tommo – Director and Chartered Financial Planner at the award winning, employee owned and B Corp certified Ovation Finance! Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here What’s on Today’s Podcast? A chat with Dr Megan McCoy, a financial therapist about the relationship between money and happiness – financial wellbeing from a therapist direction. Tight Ass Tommo Featuring cheap meals, good wellbeing investments that wont save you money and free travel on your birthday. Thank you to Rich Ellis for his suggestion – if you live in the West of England, check out the Birthday Bus website here. Interview with Dr Megan McCoy Chris Budd and Dr Megan McCoy met at the Financial Therapy Association Conference in San Diego What is Financial Therapy? 2008 Recession – therapists couldn’t help patients with financial related issues and financial advisers were seeing increased issues therapy could help with. There was a need to cross train and apply a holistic approach for someones individual and financial wellbeing. How financial advisers can train around crisis help and increase their confidence in helping their clients. Should financial advisers be approaching these areas? We need to be there for the ‘human’ moment Dr Megan McCoy How to spend money for happiness – from Elizabeth Dunn to Desmond Tutu Realigning Expectations – we often have a single Money Story and stick with it. Money Genogram – explore your family tree Start by asking: What’s your earliest memory of money?Who managed the finances in your childhood home?How did your family talk about wealth, debt, or spending?What money behaviours do you still mimic – or reject? Share stories around money with family, consider your perceptions and influences around your financial behaviours. Common issues Dr Megan McCoy comes across; Financial InfidelityEstate SettlementsMoney InsecurityBlended Families Fairness in finances When to refer; emotionally upset in meetingsnot focussed on finances in meetingsthinking about clients outside of meetings Conclusions from the Guys Dr Megan McCoy is a Financial Therapist and Assistant Professor at Kansas State University. With over 10 years of experience in counseling and research Megan’s mission is to help people achieve financial freedom and happiness. Megan’s first co-authored book “Financial Planning Counseling Skills” has just been released. Want to know more – connect with Megan on LinkedIn

Episode 119 – 7 Tips on Investing for Wellbeing It’s taken us a while to get here, but we’re finally tackling that ever-mysterious (and often misunderstood) topic: investment management. But don’t worry—this isn’t a crash course in stock-picking or trying to “beat the market”. As always, we’re looking at money through the lens of wellbeing – whether you’re managing your own portfolio, working as a financial planner, or just curious about how investing can contribute to a greater sense of security and contentment – we have 7 practical and philosophical tips to help you manage your investments in a way that supports a happier, more fulfilling life. Welcomes and Introductions Chris shares his recent experiences in Marrakesh Fancy a chat with Tom Morris and the team at Ovation? Contact details here Whats on Today’s Podcast Exploring investment management from a financial wellbeing perspective Tight Ass Tommo Featuring more from Marrakesh and special guest Rohan Sivajoti shares his supermarket yellow sticker finds. This episode: Why what you’re investing for matters more than what you’re investing in The real value of a financial plan—and why it should come before any investment decisions A powerful story about the cost of “more than enough” What a roast dinner has to do with taking too much risk! How to stop your investments from raising your heartbeat What “financial pornography” is and why you should ignore it And how one of Chris’s favourite psychological models (hello, Self-Determination Theory) can help you feel more confident and in control of your investment journey The 7 Investment Tips for Wellbeing: Invest according to your objectives – Different goals need different investment pots. A holiday fund shouldn’t be in crypto. Build your investments around a financial plan – Understanding “how much is enough” is key to knowing what you’re working towards. Know how much risk you need to take – Not everyone needs to chase high returns. Don’t invest in a way that raises your heartbeat – If it keeps you up at night, it’s not worth it. Manage your emotional response to market fluctuations – Avoid panic (or euphoria) by staying focused on your long-term plan. Set clear investment rules – Having a process gives you a sense of control, even in unpredictable markets. Boost your knowledge—or get help – If you’re not confident, seek guidance from a financial planner (ideally one who also does cashflow forecasting!). Conclusions From The Guys Come and get involved! We want to hear your Messages From the Future. Record a short 30-second message sharing a decision you’re glad you made (or one you regret) to help others make better choices. Send your voice clips to [email protected]—and join the conversation.