In an increasingly complex world, financial decision-making is something many people struggle with even in the best of circumstances. Imagine doing so with impaired communication or cognitive ability? Your host, Dr Dexter Penn is joined by Dr Anna Volkmer, a Speech and Language Therapist, author and UCL dementia researcher. We discuss decision-making capacity and how to support and empower people with communication or cognitive difficulties.

We all love a bargain. Whether it's haggling at a market, a car boot sale or online. Peer-to-peer marketplaces connect buyers and sellers online and PwC predicts that this market will be worth $355 billion by 2025. However, 90% of people report being approached by scammers or know someone that has been scammed while buying or selling online. I am joined by Pablo Gonzalez-Iglesias, Co-founder and CEO of vendi a UCL backed startup making it safer to buy and sell online.

Financial vulnerability can affect anyone at any time for a variety of reasons. In June 2019, the UK's financial regulator (the FCA) released guidance on how to better support vulnerable customers. This guidance also suggested ways financial institutions can be more accountable for their conduct towards their vulnerable customers. In this episode, Dexter is joined by Kalgera's Chief Operating Officer, Chryssi Chorafa. They discuss the evolution of the understanding of financial vulnerability and how this will soon affect the way we all access financial services.

Fintech is at the forefront of engaging traditionally financially excluded people from all walks of life. In this episode, Dexter speaks with former banker, author, educator, entrepreneur and Kalgera advisor Helene Panzarino. Helene and Dexter explore the history of Fintech and where the industry is heading post COVID-19.

Although many of us are living apart, many extended families are living in isolation together. We speak with former healthcare professional and academic turned journalist Karen Thomas about her experience of being stranded in New Zealand with her family including her 82 year old mum.

It has been a difficult few weeks as we all have had to make significant adjustments to our lives. We sincerely hope that you and those close to you are well and remain safe as the current pandemic unfolds.

There is no greater need for community than right now and we are glad you have chosen to be part of our digital community.

In this episode we talk about managing your mental health during lockdown. We also touch on what it is like to live in an inter-generational household during the pandemic.

Dexter is joined by Ivona who draws from a decade in the financial services industry to give some practical tips as a prompt to get your financial life on the road to wellness right now.

Karen and Dexter recall the moment of realisation that made Karen realise she had to step up her caregiving to her elderly parents

What is Open Banking and how can consumers benefit from it?

We all need money to meet our basic needs but sometimes we lose track of things. In this episode Dexter, Ivona and Karen talk about financial wellbeing, its importance and how we can help the older people in our lives be more financially fit.