Feel Better About Money

In this episode, Lucy and Holly ask why a new generation of investors is turning to one of the world’s oldest assets: Gold. Joined by Brian Byrnes from Moneybox together they unpack gold’s historical role in the economy, its incredible performance, and how it compares to trendier assets like Bitcoin and tech stocks. Is gold still relevant in a digital-first world? Why are younger investors increasingly drawn to it? And does it have any downsides? Plus, we hear from young financial coach Laura Ann Moore, on how it fits into own long-term investment plan.Guests: Brian Byrnes, Head of Personal Finance at MoneyboxContact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk

Big changes in global trade can feel...unsettling, and as President Donald Trump's tariffs move markets we’re here to help you stay steady. So what does all this mean for your savings, your investments, your pensions, your mortgages, and your bills? Amy Knight from NerdWallet and Fergus McDonald, from Evelyn Partners, join Holly and Lucy to give us the best tips for Trump proofing your finances!Guests: Amy Knight, NerdWallet & Fergus McDonald, Financial Planner at Evelyn Partners.Contact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk

What actually is inheritance tax, and will it affect you? Can it be avoided without breaking the law? And why are Britain’s farmers so furious about it? In this episode, Holly Mead is joined by consumer finance expert Sarah Pennells to demystify one of the UK’s most controversial taxes. From gifting and the seven-year rule to pensions, property, and the latest government changes, Feel Better About Money is breaking it all down.Guest: Sarah Pennells, Consumer Finance Specialist at Royal London.Contact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk

Pensions payouts can be confusing, but good news! You don’t have to figure it out alone. With a third of people over 55 unsure about their options and many worried about tax implications, we’re here to make it all a little clearer. Former Pensions Minister Steve Webb joins Holly and Lucy to demystify the process, explaining when and how you can access your pension, the pros and cons of lump sums, drawdowns, and annuities, and how to make sure your money lasts through retirement.Guest: Steve Webb, Partner at Lane Clark and Peacock & Former Minister for Pensions.Contact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has delivered her Spring Statement - but what does it really mean for your money? Holly Mead is joined by Jo Noble, Chris Etherington and Tom Selby to break down the key takeaways - from welfare cuts to tax crackdowns - as they look at what was announced, what was left out, and what may still come later this year.Guests: Jo Noble, Money Editor, The Times and The Sunday Times. Chris Etherington, Private Client Partner, RSM UK. Tom Selby, Director of Public Policy, AJ Bell.Image: Getty

Poor April! Next month has been labelled as 'awful'. Why? Because many household bills across the board are set to rise once again. So, what can we do to weather the storm? Consumer rights expert Martyn James joins Holly and Lucy to make it all feel a little less scary, with tips and tricks to help you save money.   Guest: Martyn James, consumer rights expert, journalist and broadcaster. Contact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk 

It’s thought our money habits are learned by the age of seven. So how do you give your child the best money saving chances? This week Holly and Lucy are joined by family wealth planner Francesca Smith to discuss how to teach children the basics about money - how to make those conversations fun, as well as the apps, cards and accounts suitable for young savers.The Times and Sunday Times have also launched a new parenting hub, where you’ll find all the latest articles on school and university guides, advice on mental health, finances, as well as Jo Noble's ongoing series on the cost of raising a child. Find out more at thetimes.com/parenting.   Guests: Francesca Smith, Financial Adviser at FSWM and founder of the Frankie’s women’s network. Contact: Lucy and Holly at: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk 

From the 1p savings challenge to the 50-30-20 budgeting rule, the internet is brimming with advice on how to save pennies and turn them into pounds - but do they actually work? To separate fact from fad, Holly and Lucy are joined by Beth Snow from Beth's Budget Diary to discuss saving tips and tricks that make a difference.Listen: Getting started with investing Contact: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk

Driving lessons and car insurance costs are rising, but there are ways to cut costs. Holly and Lucy dive into the rising costs of driving with Julie Daniels from Compare The Market and Seb Goldin from Red Driving School. They reveal smart ways to save - from cutting insurance costs to avoiding scams that target learner drivers. Contact: moneyteam@thetimes.co.uk