In this episode of Life and Money Unfiltered, George is joined by Darren McGowan from Manning Gee Investments to unpack the real meaning behind financial wellbeing. Is it just another buzzword, or something deeper? Darren shares his journey into financial services, why financial wellbeing matters to him, and how financial stress impacts our lives in ways we often overlook. We discuss how better education, workplace support, and a focus on the emotional side of money can make a real difference, financially and overall wellbeing. Darren also talks about his work with employers to help more people take control of their financial futures—a must-listen for anyone interested in how financial planning can be about more than just the numbers.

Quotes:

1. "Financial wellbeing isn't just about numbers — it's about how you feel about your money."

2. "You can have the perfect financial plan on paper, but without emotional coaching, it can fall apart."

3. "Money stress doesn’t just hit your wallet — it impacts your health, your work, and your relationships."

4. "The real win? When employers support financial wellbeing, everyone benefits."

5. "It’s not about selling investments — it’s about empowering people to make better choices for their futures."

6. "Sometimes the biggest changes come from understanding the small things no one ever explains."

7. "Financial wellbeing should be a standard part of workplace support — not an optional extra."

8. "We don’t get taught this in school. That's why workplace financial education matters more than ever."

   
   

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   📢Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalised guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.

In this episode, George and Sam explore the impact of Trump’s recent tariff announcements on market volatility and broader economic conditions. They draw the Liz Truss mini-budget episode, noting that while valuations fluctuate, the core investments remain unchanged.

George references a 2018 paper by Matthew Rooney (George W. Bush Institute), which warns of the potential downsides of tariffs—higher prices, job risks, and stifled innovation. Sam adds that although tariffs create short-term turbulence, they may indirectly help reduce government borrowing costs.

The conversation shifts to recession worries, focusing on U.S. employment trends and ongoing supply chain issues. Sam reassures listeners that markets are historically resilient and highlights a positive shift in client behaviour—more confidence, less panic.

As the episode wraps up, Sam underlines the vital role of financial advisers in helping clients stay the course. Unlike fund managers who chase performance, advisers offer tailored, steady guidance rooted in long-term planning.

Chapters:

• 00:00:03 – Introduction and Market Context
• 00:00:35 – Trump’s Tariff Impact on Markets
• 00:03:06 – Economic Implications of Tariffs
• 00:07:36 – Recession Concerns and Market Response
• 00:11:14 – Client Behaviour and Financial Well-being
• 00:17:47 – Role of Financial Advisors

Key Takeaways:

• Stick with your investment strategy unless you have short-term needs (00:15:50)
• Contact your adviser during periods of uncertainty (00:17:47)
• Follow your financial plan instead of making reactive decisions (00:19:21)
• If you’re worried, don’t go it alone—talk to your adviser (00:20:10)
• 
  

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Matthew Rooney Essay

Podcast Editor: Jonathan R, Audio Producer

📢Disclaimer:This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalised guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.

Life and Money Unfiltered – Episode 1

🎙️ Hosts: George & Sam
🎧 Podcast Spin-off: Money Wise UK

Following our chat on the Money Wise UK podcast, we’re launching our own spin-off – a short, unfiltered chat about life, money, and everything in between. In this first episode, we introduce ourselves and discuss personal reflections.

• Who Are George & Sam?

  • One of us wanted to be a pilot, and the other dreamed of being a farmer—find out who!

• Travel & Perspective on Happiness

  • Sam shares insights from over 25 trips to Sub-Saharan Africa, discussing the authenticity of travel and why he prefers cultural immersion over all-inclusive resorts.
  • We reflect on happiness, success, and what truly matters in life.

• Is Financial Planning Worth It?

  • We discuss the real value of financial planning—is it just about investments or something more?
  • Why financial planning is like having a pilot guiding your financial journey.

✅ Visit our website to learn more about us.
✅ Follow, rate, and share if you enjoyed this episode!
✅ We aim to keep these chats short, insightful, and monthly—let us know what topics you'd like us to cover next!

Listen now & subscribe!

📢Disclaimer:This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalised guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.