What will give you a stronger financial future? Buying a home or putting extra into your pension so you have enough to retire one day. With high property prices and changing retirement plans, millennials and Gen Z face a tricky financial dilemma. In this episode, Iona Bain sits down with Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times and host of the Money Clinic podcast, to unpack the debate around investing in a property and building a good pension pot. They explore why home ownership feels like the top priority for many and the benefit longer term of putting more money into your pension. Claer also shares practical insights on mortgage terms, overpayments, workplace pension contributions and the power of starting early. Whether you’re dreaming of your own home, being mortgage free or a retirement filled with treats, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement and steps to make your money work harder for your future self. You can watch episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow Claer Barrett on Instagram. You can find information on the Retirement Living Standards here: Home - Pensions UK - Retirement Living Standards Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buying a home is one of life’s biggest financial and emotional milestones, but it can also feel overwhelming. From deposits and legal fees to mortgage rates and market changes, there’s a lot to consider before you get the keys. In this episode, our host Iona Bain sits down with Sarah Tucker, mortgage expert and founder and CEO of The Mortgage Mum, to break down the home buying journey step-by-step and what it all might cost. With recent changes to Stamp Duty and mortgage lending, Sarah shares her expert insights on the housing market. Together they cover the stages, typical costs, common pitfalls and the emotional rollercoaster of a homebuyer’s journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to move, this episode is packed with practical advice and reassurance and your ultimate guide to making calm, confident, informed decisions for your next move. You can watch episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow The Mortgage Mum on Instagram Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Around 1 in 5 people in the UK are neurodivergent, but it often doesn’t get discussed enough when it comes to personal finance. In this episode, our host Iona Bain speaks with accountant and behavioural finance expert Krystle McGilvery about the often-overlooked link between neurodiversity and money. Krystle shares her personal experience of living with ADHD and dyslexia, and how these conditions impact her financial habits. From budgeting struggles to impulsive spending and long-term planning challenges, together they explore how emotional regulation, executive function, and financial systems all intersect. Get ready for some empowering strategies to help take control of your financial future, whether you’re navigating your own neurodivergence or supporting someone who is. You can watch episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow Krystle on Instagram Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There’s been lots in the news about workplace pensions recently. In this episode, our host lona Bain is joined by L&G's CEO of DC and workplace savings, Paula Llewellyn. They unpack changes in the pipeline and what you can do to help your pension savings grow. From the government’s push to simplify pensions and tackle the issue of multiple small pots, to a change which could see more of your money invested in UK companies and private markets, they explore how these reforms could help your financial future. Paula explains auto-enrolment, opportunities to increase saving into your pension and why this will make such a difference in the long run. Whether you’ve just started your career or are years into working life, this episode is packed with helpful advice to help you get a little bit richer in retirement. You can watch episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Money talk can be awkward and vulnerable, but it doesn’t have to kill the romance. In this episode, our host Iona Bain is joined by financial adviser and author Bola Sol to unpack the dos and don’ts of managing money with your partner. From combining accounts to spotting red flags, Bola shares practical advice for couples at every stage, whether you've just started dating or planning for a long-term future. You’ll learn smart strategies on financial fairness, keeping your independence, and building a money plan that works for both of you. You can watch episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on TikTok and Instagram Follow Bola Sol on Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Digital payments have become the norm in managing our money but why has there been a boost in cash spending? In this episode, our host Iona Bain sits down with financial advisor, author and content creator Emmanuel Asuquo to unpack our evolving relationship with money in a cashless world. Emmanuel explores the psychological impact of contactless spending, why so many are returning to cash, and how to create ‘friction’ in your finances to avoid mindless purchases. They also dive into emotional spending, creating strong financial habits and how tech can help you take back control. Get ready for some practical and empowering advice for modern money management. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram Follow Emmanuel Asuquo on Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Debt has become a fact of life for many, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to navigate or talk about. In this episode, our host Iona Bain is joined by Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times and a passionate advocate for financial literacy. Together, they tackle the reality of debt among young people in the UK - from student loans and credit cards to the rise of buy now, pay later. Claer breaks down how credit scores work, the traps of high interest borrowing, and why ‘negative wealth’ is an emerging issue for millennials. You’ll learn practical advice on managing repayments, understanding your options, and where to turn for help when things feel overwhelming. So get ready to feel on top of your finances and stay there. Claer mentioned a free guide and organisations which offer support on debt. More details are here. Watch ALBR episodes on L&G’s YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on L&G’s TikTok and Instagram Follow Claer Barrett on Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No matter how much you have to invest, setting good and solid foundations is vital. In this episode, our host Iona Bain is joined by friend of the show and financial adviser Rotimi Merriman Johnson, aka Mr. MoneyJar, to demystify the world of investing. From choosing the investment platform to understanding index funds, stocks and tax-efficient accounts like ISAs and SIPPs, Rotimi shares clear, practical advice without the jargon. They also discuss the psychology of investing, the importance of diversification, and how to stay focused on long-term growth, especially when the markets get bumpy. Get ready to be empowered to take those first steps towards building a future you’ll thank yourself for. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow Rotimi Merriman-Johnson on Instagram Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It can be hard to look beyond managing your money from one payday to the next. But if you have dreams for your life in the future, you’ll need a plan on how to fund this. In this episode our host Iona Bain is joined by financial adviser, author and money columnist Bola Sol to unpack what it really takes to be in the best position to afford it. From budgeting with purpose, deciding what your work-life balance is, building solid money habits and managing setbacks with compassion, Bola shares her no-nonsense, empathetic approach to long-term financial wellbeing. Whether you're dreaming of buying a home, starting a family, or simply trying to get your head around credit and emergency funds, you’ll hear practical wisdom to help you turn financial stress into strategy. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow Bola Sol on Instagram @Bola_Sol Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you feel like you’re working hard but hardly moving up the career ladder? Is success only achievable through promotion? What will give you satisfaction? In this episode our host Iona Bain is joined by Helen Tupper, co-founder of Amazing If and co-author of The Squiggly Career, to explore why success doesn't always mean a straight line to the top. They discuss how to rethink promotions, build confidence and find purpose in a working world that’s increasingly non-linear. You’ll learn how to identify your values, grow your network with purpose and create a career that works for you. Whether you’re climbing, pivoting, or staying put in your career, there are so many ways you can rewrite the rules of your success. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Follow Amazing If on Instagram @AmazingIf Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you spend more than you should? Or maybe the opposite and you’ve a tendency to be frugal? ? In this episode, our host Iona Bain is joined by financial psychotherapist Vicky Reynal to explore the emotional undercurrents behind our money habits. From childhood experiences and family dynamics to social media and FOMO, Vicky unpacks the complex psychology that shapes how we think, feel, and behave with money. You’ll hear about the subtle difference between overspending and self-sabotage, how scarcity mindsets can quietly drive our decisions, and why our financial habits are often less about numbers—and more about feelings. Whether you're a frugal saver or a spontaneous spender, there’s lots of practical insights and empowering advice to help you better understand your relationship with money and how to start building healthier habits today. Follow Vicky on Instagram @vickyreynalpsychotherapy You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on L&G’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from L&G’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Whether you're looking for some extra income, creative fulfilment, or a path to financial independence, side hustles are a great way to do this. In this episode, financial advisor Emmanuel Asuquo and our host Iona Bain dive into the world of side hustles— from what you could offer, when you might need to pay tax and ideas to generate business. They explore the highs and lows, the myths and realities, and strategies to balance it with your full-time job. Because taking time to develop a side hustle you’re passionate about, can go a long way to making you a little bit richer. Follow Emmanuel on Instagram @theemaneffectuk You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a post-pandemic world, with the rise of working from home and flexible hours, there’s a whole new meaning to work life balance. In this episode, Joe Ryle from the Four Day Week Foundation joins our host Iona Bain to discuss how changing work patterns can lead to a healthier work culture with increased productivity and reduced burnout. They dive deep into the role of technology in blurring boundaries and offer practical advice on how you can begin advocating for more balance in your work life. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With endless inspiration online, home improvements have never been more tempting - but is reality living up to the "property porn" hype? In this episode, our host Iona Bain is joined by Paula Higgins from the HomeOwners Alliance to explore the smartest ways to transform your home without breaking the bank. From deciding between a doer-upper and a move-in-ready home to prioritising renovations that actually add value, Paula shares expert advice on budgeting, managing tradespeople and making the most of your space. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, there are plenty of ways to refresh your home - sometimes all it takes is a fresh coat of paint and a little creativity! For more on the Homeowners Alliance visit hoa.org.uk You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever wondered what happens to some of the money you save in your pension? Beyond securing your financial future, your pension could be helping to build better communities, fund affordable housing and invest in innovative health technologies. In this episode, our host Iona Bain sits down with Legal & General’s Pete Gladwell to explore how pension funds can be used for social investments, while still delivering strong financial returns. Learn how your pension savings contribute to projects that shape towns and local communities and how you can make more informed investment choices. You can watch episodes on our YouTube channel And see behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special season opener of A Little Bit Richer, we turn the tables on our brand-new host, Iona Bain! Pension expert Kim Brown from Legal & General takes the interviewer’s seat to dig into Iona’s personal finance journey— from unexpected money lessons to navigating the challenges of millennial finances. They discuss everything from getting on the property ladder to balancing today’s financial needs with saving for the future. Iona shares her dreams, fears and working towards financial freedom. You can watch the full episodes on our YouTube channel And watch behind the scenes content on our TikTok and Instagram You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Iona and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’ve got an exciting announcement for you. In this new series we're delving deeper to help you with smart money choices. To guide us through we're thrilled to be welcoming Iona Bain to the team. Listen and follow on your favourite podcast app. Now you can also watch the full episodes on our YouTube channel And watch behind the scenes content on our TikTok and InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Moving in with someone is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a big decision that requires careful planning. In this episode our host Kia Commodore sits down with family lawyer Yasmin Khan-Gunns to uncover what you should consider before taking the plunge - whether you’re renting or buying with a partner, friend or family member. From financial considerations and tenancy agreements to the importance of cohabitation agreements, Yasmin shares expert advice on how to navigate potential challenges and protect yourself if things don’t go as planned. She also gives practical tips for managing shared expenses, understanding property ownership and dealing with breakups or separations. Whether you're blissfully in love, teaming up with roommates, or just starting to think about your living arrangements, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions. You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website:www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer You can find Yasmin on Instagram @londonfamilysolicitor Kia and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give information for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The new year is here and while we often focus on resolutions like fitness or dry January, what about setting yourself up for a brighter financial future? In this episode, our host Kia Commodore welcomes Sean Philip from Legal & General, who shares some great tips to improve your personal finances for the longer term. From rethinking financial sacrifices as ‘badges of honour’, the ‘Couch to £5k’ savings challenge, building an emergency fund and when to increase your pension contributions. This episode is packed with insights to help you save smarter and plan better. Whether you're navigating the challenge of balancing short-term needs with long-term goals or looking for motivation to get started, Sean’s thoughts will inspire you to take steps to help make you a little bit richer! Make 2025 the year future you will thank you for! You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Kia and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Step into the new year armed with pearls of financial wisdom from A Little Bit Richer! In this special episode, our host Kia Commodore goes through the archives to share her top ten favourite money tips from the series so far. From building financial discipline to smart investing, tackling debt and planning for your dream retirement, this episode is packed with actionable advice from some of the most insightful guests we've had on the show, including Orann Coyle, Timi Merriman-Johnson, Kim Brown, Emilie Bellet and many more. Start 2025 strong and take control of your financial future. Whether you're navigating the property market, or exploring pensions and ISAs, there are plenty of ways to help make you a little bit richer! You can play the podcast and find other useful content on Legal & General’s website: www.legalandgeneral.com/podcasts/a-little-bit-richer Kia and her guests share their own personal thoughts and opinions in this podcast. These might be different from Legal & General’s take on things. They give financial guidance for a UK audience that’s relevant at the time of recording. It’s general best practice, not the kind of personalised advice you’d get from a financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
G.Prosser
Really insightful and always a create listen