What shapes our relationship with money? For Paul Fox, it began with old shillings from his great-grandfather and a bob-a-job week that involved a little help from mum’s purse. In this episode of Let’s Talk Money and More, Lesley Thomas is joined by Paul Fox, a financial wellbeing expert at the Money and Pensions Service, for a conversation that’s full of honesty, experience, and practical wisdom.
Paul’s money story is one of early graft, life lessons, and financial turning points—from racking up debt as a student to learning the power of ‘save as you earn’, becoming mortgage-free, and helping others do the same. Together, Lesley and Paul unpack how personal experiences shape financial behaviours, why financial education is vital at every age, and how we can all become more confident in navigating our financial lives.
✅ Why early conversations about money at home really matter
✅ How work ethic and money habits are formed in childhood
✅ The dangers of buy now, pay later culture and disconnection from money
✅ How Paul got into debt—and the turning point that changed everything
✅ Why financial education is essential, accessible, and empowering
✅ The importance of pensions, even if they feel boring or too far away
✅ How to talk about money without jargon or shame
✅ Where to find free, impartial support through the MoneyHelper service
🔹 Memorable Quotes from Paul:
✨ “We spring clean our homes—but not enough people take the time to spring clean their finances.”
✨ “You don’t need to be perfect with money—you need to be intentional.”
✨ “Saving into a pension in your 20s feels irrelevant—until you wake up in your 50s and wish you had.”
✨ “Financial education doesn’t stop at school. We’re all still learning.”
Paul recommends MoneyHelper.org.uk, a free, government-backed service offering impartial guidance, tools, and one-to-one support across everything from debt and budgeting to pensions and retirement planning.
📞 Call the helpline on 0800 138 7777
🌐 Visit: www.moneyhelper.org.uk
📢 Tune in now to hear Paul’s story—and take the next step towards a more confident, informed relationship with your money.
Connect with Lesley Thomas
Download for FREE – The 2025 Money Mindset Playbook - https://lesleyathomas.kartra.com/page/2025-money-mindset-playbook
My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/
Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlesley_thomas
Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas
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