In this episode of Juggling Mind and Money, Steve is joined by Chartered Financial Planner Luke James for a clear and grounded conversation about the recently released Budget. With Jess away, Luke steps in to help unpack the announcements that matter most to listeners and clients.

They cut through the pre-Budget rumours, explore the psychology behind fear-driven financial decisions and discuss the major changes around salary sacrifice, dividend tax, ISAs, VCTs, property income and the newly introduced mansion tax.

They also highlight what didn’t change, why many measures are delayed and the practical steps listeners can take while current allowances remain in place.

In this episode Steve and Jess unpack a question many of us think about but rarely admit out loud: When is it smart risk-taking… and when is it simply gambling?

The conversation begins with confessions, before diving into the psychology behind risk, excitement and the chase for dopamine.

From thrill-seeking behaviour to escapism and social pressure, they explore why gambling can be so compelling… even when we know the odds are stacked against us.

But what about the other side? Why do some people avoid gambling altogether? Financial trauma, fear of loss and moral judgement all play their part. Jess explains how our past experiences shape the way we feel about uncertainty.

Steve draws a sharp line between gambling and investing, breaking down their differences in strategy, purpose and timeline. The pair also discuss the “dark side” of investment apps and the psychological tricks used to encourage rapid buying and selling — often disguised as investing but rooted in gambling behaviour.

The episode closes with practical tools to stay on the right side of the line:

• Money fixes: financial planning, realistic goals and focusing on return on life rather than just return on investment.
• Psychological fixes: managing emotions, knowing your risk profile and seeking help when money becomes an escape rather than a plan.

And in true Sockology style, it all ends with a pair of socks you woudn't want to miss.

A light-hearted conversation with a serious message: long-term wealth is built on patience, not lucky breaks.

In this episode, Steve is joined by Neil Bage, Co-Founder of Shaping Wealth, for a powerful conversation about understanding people as the core of great financial planning.

Steve and Neil explore the psychology behind money and the emotional challenges that both clients and advisers face.

Neil explains how our brains, designed for survival thousands of years ago, struggle to navigate a world built on numbers, screens, and long-term financial commitments.

From emotional reactions to markets, to the identity shifts that come with retirement, this discussion highlights why empathy, awareness, and self-understanding are essential skills for anyone helping others make financial decisions.

💬 Memorable Insight

💡 Takeaway

If you’ve ever felt anxious, impatient, or uncertain about money — you’re not alone.

Our brains were never built for the financial world we live in today, but understanding that can help you make calmer, wiser, and more confident decisions about your future.

🎧 Listen now to discover how understanding yourself can be the most powerful financial skill you’ll ever learn.

📚 Quoted sources:

• Daycart's error - Antonio Damasio

• Life is in the Transitions - Bruce Filer