Her Fabulous Financial Future

You've got a lump sum sitting in your account, and instead of feeling excited, you feel pressure. In this episode of Financial Dilemmas, Penny has around £50,000 after selling a property and clearing some credit card debt. She wants to travel the world, but she also wants to make smart choices for her future. So what do you do with a lump sum like this: spend some now, invest some for later, or keep it safe in cash? Sam talks Penny through a simple decision-making framework based on when you'll need the money, why Premium Bonds feel reassuring (but are not a long-term growth plan), and how to use ISAs and pensions properly so more of your returns stay yours. What we cover The emotional side of lump sums, and the fear of "getting it wrong" Travel vs investing, and how to do both without guilt A clear rule of thumb: cash for money you'll need soon, invest for 5+ years Why leaving money in cash can still be risky (it is your buying power that takes the hit) The takeaway to steal: give every pound a purpose Important: This episode is general information and education, not personal financial advice. Tax rules can change. Investments can go down as well as up. About your host: Sam Secomb is a Chartered Financial Planner and Telegraph columnist. Resources: If this episode struck a chord, here are some ways to take the next step with us… 🌐 Explore more at →  Women's Wealth 📅 Book your free →  15-minute Discovery Call 🌟 Join our free →  Enable Membership Connect with us on [LinkedIn], [Instagram], [Facebook] and [YouTube] for more tips, tools, and conversations about women and money.  

You work hard, build the business, finally start earning decent money… and then you can't shake the fear it might not last. In this episode of Financial Dilemmas, Helen talks to Sam about the very real "self-employed money wobble" – the instinct to keep a big cash safety net, even when it's driven more by fear than by the numbers. Together they unpack how to balance short-term security with long-term progress, including why leaving too much in cash can quietly chip away at your future buying power. What we cover Why the "one bad month" feeling is so common when you're self-employed A simple way to organise your money into short-term, mid-term and long-term pots  How to give every pound a job, so cash isn't sitting there "just because"  Why cash can feel safe, but still be risky if it's the default forever  If you're self-employed and you've been keeping cash close because investing feels scary, this episode will help you find a calmer, clearer way forward.  Important: This episode is general information and education, not personal financial advice. Tax rules can change. Investments can go down as well as up. About your host: Sam Secomb is the founder of Women's Wealth, an award-winning Chartered Financial Planner and Telegraph columnist. Resources: If this episode struck a chord, here are some ways to take the next step with us… 🌐 Explore more at →  Women's Wealth 📅 Book your free →  15-minute Discovery Call 🌟 Join our free →  Enable Membership Connect with us on [LinkedIn], [Instagram], [Facebook] and [YouTube] for more tips, tools, and conversations about women and money.  

What happens when you earn well, do "all the right things", and still get caught out by an unexpected tax bill? In this episode of Her Fabulous Financial Future, Money Mentor Selena Flavius is joined by Women's Wealth client Annabelle, a senior supply chain director and working mum, who shares her honest experience of getting financial advice for the first time. After returning from maternity leave and facing a shock self-assessment tax bill, Annabelle realised something wasn't quite working. As she puts it: "I'm not rich, but I wanted to feel sorted. If something went wrong, I wanted to know I'd be okay." That moment became a turning point. Together, Selena and Annabelle talk candidly about what it really means to take control of your money when life, career and family responsibilities collide. In this episode, they cover: Why a good salary doesn't automatically equal financial confidence The reality of navigating tax, pensions and childcare costs after becoming a mum How salary sacrifice can reduce tax and protect access to childcare support The relief that comes from having an emergency fund and a clear plan Why financial independence matters, even when you're happily partnered This episode is for women who earn well but feel uneasy about tax, pensions, or whether they're "doing it right", those returning to work after having children, and anyone who wants to feel calmer, more confident, and genuinely in control of their financial future. Annabelle's story is a powerful reminder that financial advice isn't about being wealthy, it's about feeling secure, informed, and supported. Resources: If this episode struck a chord, here are some ways to take the next step with us… 🌐 Explore more at →  Women's Wealth 📅 Book your free →  15-minute Discovery Call 🌟 Join our free →  Enable Membership Connect with us on [LinkedIn], [Instagram], [Facebook] and [YouTube] for more tips, tools, and conversations about women and money.  

"Live well, die poor" – Emily's unapologetic approach to money When Emily first came to Women's Wealth, she had a high-pressure job and a good income - but no real structure to her finances. She was great at spending, unsure about saving, and had a simple but bold goal: "I want to live well and die poor." Fast forward a few years, and Emily's now managing her money with clarity, investing with confidence, and navigating life's big changes - from marriage and maternity to moving house and merging finances - with a financial plan that actually fits her life. In this funny, honest and wildly relatable episode, Emily shares: What changed when she and her husband finally started talking (really talking) about money and why they needed help to do it How she shifted from chaotic spending to a calm, structured investment strategy Why she specifically searched for female financial advisers (and found Women's Wealth) What it's like working with a financial planner who actually knows your life How she stopped beating herself up for being "a bit scatty" and started trusting that her money could work even when she didn't have it all together "It's not rocket science - but I wouldn't have done it without you." "You've helped us make decisions we didn't even know we needed to talk about." "You're like our best friend when it comes to money." Whether you're the financial decision-maker in your household, or the one who usually sits quietly and lets the other half take the lead - Emily's story will resonate. It's proof that financial advice doesn't have to feel cold, complicated, or out of reach. 👉 Listen now - and hear what's possible when you stop putting it off and start taking control. Resources: If this episode struck a chord, here are some ways to take the next step with us… 🌐 Explore more at →  Women's Wealth 📅 Book your free →  15-minute Discovery Call 🌟 Join our free →  Enable Membership Connect with us on [LinkedIn], [Instagram], [Facebook] and [YouTube] for more tips, tools, and conversations about women and money.  

"I want to live like I'm on holiday." That was Rachel's starting point - and what a journey it's been.  In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Rachel shares how she went from anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about her finances… to confident, clear, and in control. With honesty and humour, she opens up about the fears she faced, the myths she let go of (spoiler: paying off the mortgage isn't always the holy grail), and the standout moments that changed everything - including hearing the words: "Rachel, you're going to be OK."  Together with Sam Secomb, Chartered Financial Planner and founder of Women's Wealth, they unpack:  Why shame keeps so many women stuck - and how to shake it off  The moment a podcast helped Rachel take the leap  What it really means to have a "best financial friend"  How reframing her mortgage shifted her entire retirement plan  Why honesty, not perfection, is the key to financial progress  From fearing the admin and dodging pension statements, to logging into her financial portal with ease, Rachel's transformation is nothing short of inspiring. As she puts it:   "I sleep better at night now. Even if we drew a line here, I know I have enough - and that changed everything."  If you've ever felt behind, embarrassed, or intimidated by your money, this episode is for you.  Resources: If this episode struck a chord, here are some ways to take the next step with us… Explore more at →  Women's Wealth Book your free →  15-minute Discovery Call Join our free →  Enable Membership Connect with us on [LinkedIn], [Instagram], [Facebook] and [YouTube] for more tips, tools, and conversations about women and money.

In this inspiring episode, Sarah Diamond, founder of Skin Lab, joins Women's Wealth Money Mentor Siafra James to share her journey from burnout in the NHS to building a thriving aesthetic clinic in Kent. She opens up about: Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome Starting a business while working full time Making financial decisions as a solo founder and breadwinner The power of planning, persistence, and passive income Why it's never too late to design the life you want Sarah also reflects on working with Women's Wealth to set up her pension, build a financial buffer, and gain peace of mind as her business grows. 🎧 Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business, juggling finances as a solo founder, or simply looking for real-life money motivation - this one's for you. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Got questions? Book a free 15-minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network Join our free Enable Membership for access to webinars, tools, resources, and expert support - everything you need to build your financial confidence, all in one place. Women's Wealth Live Webinars Join our free live webinars and Ask the Adviser sessions - practical, supportive events where women get real answers to real money questions. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Women's Wealth Ltd is an appointed representative of Professional Financial Planning Group Ltd which is authorised and regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority, no. 950921.  

Finding herself with a lump sum of money and feeling unsure about how to use it for her future, Polly talks about the stress and overwhelm she felt during this time. She shares how she overcame these challenges, saying, "Educating yourself and building a strong support team is the best way forward." Polly also highlights the importance of leaning on friends and talking through the situation with them. She reflects on the impact of moving out of the marital home on her children and how they adjusted to the changes. Polly stresses the importance of reviewing pensions, noting that many women often lose out by not advocating for this in a settlement. While mediation requires negotiation from both parties, Polly found it unsuccessful in her case, leading her to go through the court process instead. Now, Polly is rebuilding her life after having had no control over the family finances during her marriage. It has been a challenge, but she shares, "for me, visually seeing the cash flow, knowing how I was going to spend my money, save my money and use my money was so beneficial." Today, Polly feels empowered, with her money secure and working for her. She has found peace of mind, settled into a new home, and is looking forward to a bright future. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute appointment with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network Access short courses, downloadable resources and LIVE sessions where you can ask your burning questions to qualified female advisers. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Women's Wealth Ltd is an appointed representative of Professional Financial Planning Group Ltd which is authorised and regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority, no. 950921.  

Savvy Sam talks about how to manage the family finances to get the best deal for everyone.  Sharing allowances and ownership of things to be tax efficient and fair, whether that's between adult partners or even putting stuff in the children's name. We will leave you with our top 3 tips to make sure you are a financially fit family and 3 mistakes that you can avoid. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network Access online learning, blogs, downloadable resources, newsletters, community and podcasts. LIVE sessions where you can ask your burning questions to qualified female advisers. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn    

Fernanda's Situation  In her 30's, Brazilian and living and working in London for over 9 years, Fernanda is navigating career, relationships, home ownership and managing a lifestyle in an expensive city . She felt it was time to consider how best to organise things with a view to creating resources for later out of "spare" income available now.  She and her long-term partner have 2 cockapoos so the natural progression might lead to children, so any planning needs to be nimble and adaptable. Challenges: Getting the best return possible given the different or uncertain timescales involved for different pots. How to choose? What to expect? Overpay mortgage? Cash in share options? So many choices.  Wise use of tax allowances and tax efficient investment wrappers ensures best return, but it's complicated and changes every year. How do you know you have got it right?  Continued earnings is what makes her financial plan manageable, but what if …………. ? Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network Access online learning, blogs, downloadable resources, newsletters, community and podcasts.  LIVE sessions where you can ask your burning questions to qualified female advisers. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn  

Madeleine's Situation Madeleine is navigating divorce, freelance career, health challenges and a master's degree, all whilst raising her children. We met this real-life superwoman at the point she was trying to work out if buying a replacement family home was the right use of her divorce settlement or whether there were other options that deserved her attention. Challenges · Now she is dependent on her own earnings alone. How does she build resilience for her family especially as her freelance earnings have been disrupted in the past by health issues? · Is buying a house the best use of her resources? If she doesn't buy will she end up squeezed out of the property market? If not property, then what? · Pensions divorce – complicated, long winded, and very valuable in the long run! Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join) Join us on for the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to other women asking their burning questions.  Access online learning, blogs, downloadable resources, newsletters, community and podcasts. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Jess's Situation Currently working for one of the big tech corporates Jess has a great income, bonus with share incentives, pension and benefits and wanted to be sure she was making the most of her opportunities and being financially responsible. She also has the substantial costs of living and working in London and had to navigate the 'should I rent or buy a home' dilemma.  This is further complicated by a desire to travel and eye on career options that move away from the good corporate earnings she currently enjoys. Financial planning was key to Jess levelling up her knowledge and gaining confidence as financial decisions became weightier.  She sought autonomy over relying on input from friends and family, but also realised this is a specialist area and having an expert on her side is a great way of being sure all options have been considered.  Women's Wealth loves taking on the role of BFF (Best Financial Friend) and we have enjoyed watching Jess lean into her financial responsibilities.  Challenges  Lifestyle creep means high earners can become trapped unless they manage spending to a level that leaves them with choices.  Benefit packages that include share incentive schemes turn you into an investor whether you are ready or not and learning to manage your stock assets is part of growing into financial maturity. Getting familiar with your pension fund, how to choose the right investment, contribution level and when and how best to use the fund in the future because it is likely to become one of the biggest assets you will ever own.   Buy or rent – it is a big decision with lots of ramifications. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) Join us on for the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to other women asking their burning questions.  Access online learning, blogs, downloadable resources, newsletters, community and podcasts. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Janette's Situation.  Having throttled back from full-on work to do only a bit of what she enjoys, Janette is transitioning from earning and accumulating wealth to utilising what she has created to support her lifestyle. She wants to make the most of what she has got rather than creating a legacy and she has a gap to navigate until her pensions pay out in full.  Challenges  Outliving our resources is a frightening prospect but making sure we get the most out of them is also a lifetime responsibility – how to tackle the balancing act. How to use different pensions at different stages of retirement to gap fill and smooth out your income.  She has recently come out of a long term marriage and lost her last parent – she felt quite alone and with decisions to make about an inheritance. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) Join us on for the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to what others are saying Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Listen to the women who joined our LIVE 'Ask the Adviser' session as they ask their burning questions -  we love to explore the issues (and solutions!) that affect women's money. Ask the Adviser is LIVE the last Thursday of every month on our platform - The Women's Wealth Network. FREE to join. Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) Join us on for the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to what others are saying Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Melly's Situation. Freelance worker who has divorced and received a settlement.  She is not used to having investable assets.  She lives with her new partner in his house which they adore, and he is financially independent with a secure pension of his own and an investment portfolio, but there is still an interest only mortgage outstanding on their home.  Melly has grown up children, her income fluctuates, and she loves her work so passionately that she doesn't really think about retirement, but having reached 59 she has started to wonder how she will live if her earnings opportunities dwindle. The divorce settlement is likely to be the only windfall she has, and she needs to make it count. Challenges  Self-employment (no pension or other employee benefits) New to investing and in receipt of a divorce settlement  Blended family with legacy implications Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors. Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) - join us on for the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to what others are saying Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

Eva knew she should be investing and had been researching her options, but she never felt confident enough to press the button and commit. She explains how Women's Wealth helped her move forward. The Women's Wealth Empower Membership is a 5 meeting process that gave Eva the unexpected additional benefit of revealing a more positive financial forecast than she had imagined.  She explains how this has empowered change in her outlook, thinking and behaviour.  "A baptism of fire" is how Eva described her initial experience as an investor and she explains how she navigated incredibly uncomfortable feelings and the benefits of having an expert on hand during this scary time. We discussed the value of choice and freedom and how financial planning can help promote these. Eva shared her opinion on why a friendly and affordable service, focussing on the needs of women, is a powerful option. We also explore what questions women have around money and finance and how a female focussed service made it easier for her to take the plunge and hire the expert she needed.  She has been informed, supported, encouraged, and reassured during her journey which she confirms has changed her outlook on life in a good way.  Further resources: Women's Wealth Website Book a free 15 minute chat with one of our Money Mentors Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) Join in our WEEKLY 'live' sessions, hear what others are saying. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn  

In this episode #SavvySam talks to two mortgage experts to get the low down on the market, the rates, the options open to borrowers given Bank of England base rates are rising and it looks set to continue going up.  Join us as Funmi Olufunwa - Hoops Financial and Dawn Patrick - Burlington Financial tackle the following questions: Should you escape your current fixed rate deal to fix a new one before the rates go up even more? What are your options? How does using a mortgage broker help – why not just go direct to your current lender or usual bank?  How high should you expect rates to go? What can you do to prepare for higher future costs? For a one to one chat with either Dawn or Funmi - Funmi Olufunwa - Hoops Finance f.olufunwa@hotmail.co.uk Dawn Patrick DipFA Cert CII (MP) - Burlington Financial Dawn.Patrick@burlington-financial.uk Further resources: Women's Wealth Network (FREE to join for 6 months) Visit the 'weekly lives' where you can listen to past broadcasts, 8/8/22 discussion on mortgage rates . Women's Wealth Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn