Most people think financial advice is only for the wealthy but that’s not the case. In this episode, Vignes (Founder of Plouta) talks with FCA-regulated Independent Financial Adviser Joshua Shepherd about when and why you might consider working with a financial adviser, what it really costs and how they can help you achive finanical independence.

What you will hear in this podcast:

✅ What’s the difference between independent and restricted advisers

✅ What financial advisers actually do from pensions and ISAs to inheritance tax and insurance

✅ How advisers charge: flat fees vs percentage-based

✅ When it makes sense to book a consultation

✅ How to find a trusted FCA-regulated adviser

Whether you’re planning for retirement, growing investments, or simply want to make smarter money decisions, this episode will help you decide if professional advice is right for you.

Feel like money’s vanishing from your account? You’re not alone.

In this episode, Vignes (Founder of Plouta) sits down with FCA-regulated financial adviser Joshua Shepherd to explore why budgeting often fails — and how you can finally make it work.

We’ll cover:

✅ Why budget planning is key to financial freedom

✅ The psychology of overspending and emotional triggers

✅ Why most budgets don’t stick and how to fix yours

✅ Proven budgeting frameworks (like 50/30/20) that actually work

✅ Simple, psychology-backed habits to take control of your money

Whether you’re struggling with impulse spending or just want a smarter plan, this episode gives you the tools to stop overspending and budget like a pro.

Both ISAs and pensions have tax benefits, but which is right for you?

In this episode, Vignes (Founder of Plouta) is joined by FCA-regulated financial adviser Joshua Shepherd to break down the pros and cons of each option, and when to use them.

We cover:

✅ When to choose an ISA over a pension and vice versa

✅ The current ISA allowance and different types available

✅ Is the Lifetime ISA still worth it?

✅ Pension tax relief explained, how it boosts your savings

✅ What happens if you need access to your money before retirement

Simple, practical advice to help you save smarter and plan for financial freedom in the UK.

Most UK adults don’t know if they’re saving enough for retirement. In this episode, Vignes (Founder of Plouta) is joined by FCA-regulated financial adviser Joshua Shepherd to explain everything you need to know about UK pensions.

We discuss:

✅ Why pension planning matters

✅ The State Pension — who qualifies and how much it pays

✅ How much you need to retire at 60 or 65

✅ Workplace pensions and auto-enrolment

✅ Pension options for the self-employed

Clear, practical guidance to help you get on track for retirement without the jargon.

Got £50 or £100 a month to spare? Should you save it or invest it? In this episode, Vignes (Founder of Plouta) is joined by FCA-regulated financial adviser Joshua Shepherd to explore the basics of investing in the UK. We break down the difference between saving and investing, Stocks & Shares ISAs vs pensions, index funds, and how risky investing really is — all explained simply for beginners.

How much of your salary should you actually be saving every month? 10%? 20%? It's the most common question in personal finance, and it can be hard to know if you're on track.

In the first-ever episode of the Plouta Financial Wellness Podcast, we're joined by UK financial adviser Joshua Shepherd to give you a clear, practical framework. We break down the 50/30/20 rule, explain the difference between saving for an emergency and investing for your future, and provide a simple rule of thumb for your pension.