Shows
The Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 19: What to expect when you first meet with a Financial PlannerIn this episode, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth walk you through what really happens in a first client meeting — and how to make sure yours feels less like a cold sales pitch and more like the start of an empowering journey. Think of it as your client’s first step onto the Yellow Brick Road — and you're there as their guide, helping them find clarity, courage, and confidence about their future.
Warren and Paul break down the essential ingredients for a truly meaningful first meeting: warm hospitality, a calm and welcoming setting (with proper biscuits!), and a tone t...2025-07-0959 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 18: Client Magnetism - How to Attract Your Ideal ClientsIn this episode, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth share what it really takes to attract the right clients to your financial planning business—without resorting to pushy tactics or broad marketing blasts. They unpack how getting crystal clear on who you want to serve helps you become a magnet for the clients who truly value your work.
From mastering referrals to managing expectations and building trust, they offer practical strategies rooted in real-world experience. The conversation also highlights the power of personal congruence—how being aligned in your values and communication creates stronger, longer-lasting client relationships.
...2025-06-2438 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 17: How to Level Up from a Solo Planner to a Financial Planning PracticeLeap into this retro platformer–inspired episode with Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth as your pixelated protagonists. Starting in the “Solo Start” world, you dash across blocks labelled “Capacity Limits” and collect “Client Coins". Discover why a single character can’t conquer every level alone and learn to spot the flashing “Power-Up” icons—signals it’s time to recruit allies and build a party strong enough for the next stages.
As you warp pipe into the “Foundation Fortress,” our hosts guide you through building sturdy platforms: “Process Scrolls” for CRM, “Fact-Find Feathers". Bounce on question-mark blocks to uncover hidden “Tech Toolkit” po...2025-06-0449 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 16: Quakeproof Your Planning - Top 10 Financial Planner Faults to AvoidIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute survey the seismic fault lines that can undermine even the most seasoned advisory practices. They uncover the top ten mistakes—such as assumptions that skip proper discovery, communication cracks that widen client doubts, and the tremors caused by overpromising outcomes—that can destabilise your planning from the ground up.
Whether you’re laying the foundations for a new practice or retrofitting an established firm, this episode provides a blueprint for building a truly quake-resistant advisory service. Tune in to discover how to shore up your proces...2025-05-2148 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 15: One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Crafting Your Income Plan in RetirementIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth roll out the measuring tape on retirement income planning—proving that the best strategies are tailored to fit, not pulled straight off the rack. They explore how personalised planning, shaped around an individual’s goals, mindset, and spending habits, leads to a more comfortable financial future.
From refining the classic 4% rule to cutting through the complexity of gilt yields, annuities, and long-term cash flow, they show how every element of a client’s retirement plan needs to be carefully stitched together. They also highlight why life’s...2025-05-0745 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 14: Market Mayhem & The Tariff Effect - Navigating Risk vs Volatility Like a GeekIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth explore the impact of Trump's tariffs on market volatility and the broader economic landscape. They unpack the difference between risk and volatility, highlighting why investors often confuse short-term market fluctuations with long-term financial danger.
The conversation dives into how behavioural biases shape client perceptions, the importance of clear communication during periods of uncertainty, and strategies for helping clients stay focused on their long-term goals. Warren and Paul also discuss how experience and financial maturity influence investment decisions, and why a calm, consistent approach can make...2025-04-2347 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 13: The Vault of Legacy - Inheritance Tax Planning StrategiesDust off your pixelated fedora and light your tax-saving torch—because in this epic 8-bit adventure, Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth set off on a quest to uncover the hidden treasures of Inheritance Tax planning. From ancient gifting scrolls to the mystical artefacts of trusts and insurance, they navigate booby traps of complexity to help preserve your family fortune.
With sharp wit and strategic know-how, they dodge the 40% boulder of HMRC and shine a torch on golden relics like Business Relief, Nil-Rate Band secrets, and the lost legend of Lifetime Gifting. Along the way, our geeky explorers dec...2025-04-0949 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 12: End of Tax Year Planning - The Great Tax Detective’s PlaybookWarren Shute and Paul Cleworth scrutinise every clue in this timely investigation of year-end tax planning. Like master sleuths hot on the scent, they bring to light strategies ranging from maximising ISA contributions and refining pension allocations to making the most of charitable donations. Each insight presented as a vital piece of evidence that can protect your financial well-being before the 5th of April tax deadline.
The game is truly afoot: by the final deduction, this engaging discussion equips you with the know-how to ensure your year-end tax approach stands on solid ground, proving that cracking the...2025-03-2139 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 11: Mission: Secure Retirement – Strategies and Insights in Securing Retirement IncomeIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute set forth on a mission to unravel the art of securing retirement income. With a clear and methodical approach, they explore the fundamentals of retirement planning—delving into cash flow management, optimal withdrawal techniques, and tailored investment strategies that resonate with both financial planners and individuals alike.
The discussion covers essential elements of pension strategy, from understanding tax advantages and contribution limits to mastering carry-forward calculations and the benefits of salary sacrifice. Paul and Warren break down these complex topics into practical insights, ensuring that ev...2025-03-1247 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 10: The Golden Quest - Understanding Retirement and the Secrets to Financial FreedomEmbark on a legendary journey into the realm of retirement planning with Warren and Paul in this epic episode of The Finance Geeks. In "The Golden Quest," our hosts reveal the ancient secrets behind building a secure and prosperous future.
Discover how every element of your pension plan can be transformed into a treasure trove of financial freedom. With insights drawn from both time-honoured wisdom and modern strategy, Warren and Paul share the pros, cons, and challenges of various approaches, turning complex concepts into an engaging saga of preparation and possibility.
Join this quest for...2025-02-2639 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 9: Investing Uncovered – Behind the Scenes of Portfolio ManagementIn this revealing episode of The Finance Geeks, the curtain is pulled back on the portfolio management control room. Warren and Paul kick off by exploring the meaning of portfolio management and why transparency is key in the world of investing. Each introduces his core investment philosophy—grounded in evidence-based decision-making and a focus on controlling costs, asset allocation, and risk.
Next, the discussion dives into the nuts and bolts of the investment process and details each approach to portfolio construction. Warren and Paul break down how they balance equity, bonds, property, and commodities while incorporating factor in...2025-02-1243 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 8: Turbocharge Your Efficiency - Accelerating Your Business PerformanceIn this high-speed episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren and Paul rev up your business efficiencies. Just like fine-tuning a race car for peak performance, they delve into essential methods to streamline your operations and eliminate inefficiencies. From streamlining processes and reducing task duplication to automating repetitive activities, discover how to optimize every aspect of your business engine for maximum productivity and speed.
Join Warren and Paul as they provide actionable insights and strategic adjustments to keep your business running like a well-oiled machine. Whether you're looking to boost productivity, enhance team collaboration, or implement cutting-edge automation...2025-01-2957 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 7: Charting Your Business Plan - Setting Sail for Success in 2025In this episode, Warren and Paul draw on client insights to show that robust financial and business planning is like the detailed charting of a sea voyage. Just as a seasoned captain plots a route with waypoints and contingency plans, you need to plot your business and financial objectives to steer clear of unwanted currents and navigate towards long-term success.
Imagine your Management Information reviews, process audits, and updated documentation as your ship’s rigging and instruments - each element finely tuned to keep your vessel steady. By regularly scheduling compliance checks and planning for team coverage (mu...2025-01-1557 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 6: Blueprint for 2025 - Planning Your Best Year Yet!This episode delves into the meticulous process of designing your personal and professional goals for the upcoming year. Discover how to draft a comprehensive blueprint that outlines your aspirations, sets actionable milestones, and builds a solid foundation for success.
Whether you're aiming to advance your career, enhance your well-being, or embark on new personal endeavours, Warren and Paul provide the strategic insights and practical tools you need to construct a fulfilling and prosperous 2025. Start laying the groundwork for your best year yet with expert guidance from The Finance Geeks!
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0:00...2024-12-2453 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 5: Real Life Financial Success StoriesWarren Shute & Paul Cleworth highlight inspiring financial success stories from their clients. From conquering complex tax problems to building a secure retirement plan, they break down the strategies that helped turn financial chaos into clear, achievable wins.
These stories aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet—they’re real people hitting their goals, proving that with the right advice and a little geeky know-how, financial success is within reach. If you’ve ever wondered how good planning can transform lives, this episode has the answers.
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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
12:12 - Real Lif...2024-12-1052 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 4: Wrestling Retirement Planning - Smackdown Strategies for a Winning FutureStep into the ring with Paul and Warren as they grapple with the heavyweight challenge of retirement planning. In this episode, our financial tag team breaks down the moves you need to pin down your retirement strategy.
From the early-game tactics of auto-enrolment and salary exchange to the high-flying maneuvers of carry forward contributions, they’ll show you how to stay on the offense and avoid being counted out by tax inefficiencies.
The Geeks put retirement income goals into a sleeper hold, asking the big question: “How much is enough?”. They also emphasize the importance of tag...2024-11-2645 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 3: Budget Fallout - Weighing the AftermathIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute dig into the aftermath of the UK’s Autumn Budget, one of the biggest tax-raising budgets since 1993. With the government targeting £40 billion in taxes, they break down the key changes, including rises in employer National Insurance, adjustments to Capital Gains Tax, and a boost in the minimum wage.
They highlight the government’s 180-degree shift on tax policy, increasing taxes despite prior promises, and share insights on how these adjustments will impact businesses, investors, and homeowners alike.
Paul and Warren share advice for proac...2024-11-1245 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 2: Wrangling Bulls & Bears - Insights for a Steady Financial RideIn this episode of The Finance Geeks, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute bring you on a journey through the unpredictable world of bull and bear markets.
Just like wrangling powerful forces in the wild, navigating market shifts requires skill, patience, and a clear strategy. Paul and Warren dive into what makes a market “bullish” or “bearish” and explore why these cycles occur, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and focused even in turbulent times.
They share insights on recent trends in major market indices, the dynamics of growth and value stocks, and why bull markets have his...2024-10-3041 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 01: Autumn Budget 2024 - The Geeky Guide to What’s ComingAfter a summer break full of travels and downtime, Paul and Warren are back with The Finance Geeks! In this episode, they get straight to business, tackling the upcoming UK Budget on October 30th. The Geeks discuss the potential tax changes on the horizon and how they could affect everything from pensions to capital gains. Whether it's Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Inheritance Tax (IHT), or possible tweaks to pensions, Paul and Warren offer their expert insights on what might be coming your way—and how a good adviser can help you save. Tune in to find out what’s in s...2024-10-1535 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 013: Raising Money Smart Kids - Conquering the Financial PlaygroundIn this episode, financial experts Warren Shute and Paul Cleworth share their experiences and practical tips to help you equip your kids with the skills to navigate the financial ups and downs of life with confidence.
Discover why financial literacy is a must-have superpower for your kids, and learn how to teach them to navigate the financial ups and downs like pros. Warren and Paul will share age-appropriate strategies and systems that make money management a fun and engaging part of growing up.
From swinging into positive money habits to balancing on the financial seesaw...2024-07-1050 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 012: Love and Money - Navigating Finances with Your PartnerThis episode tackles the ultimate two-player challenge: Love and Money! We're delving into the pixelated world of couples' finances, guiding you through your financial journey together. We'll decode the secrets of managing your money together, dodge hidden traps of financial infidelity, and explore how different spending habits can affect your relationship and how to manage them.
Level up your relationship with our essential strategies. This includes planning a romantic "financial date night" to discuss budgets and goals; establishing clear spending boundaries to avoid any surprises down the road; and learning how to manage your bank accounts together...2024-06-2646 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 011: Financial Wellbeing - Find Your Balance, Achieve Financial NirvanaJoin finance gurus Paul and Warren on a journey to financial nirvana! This episode tackles the essential question: what truly defines your financial wellbeing? The Finance Geeks unpack the key aspects that could help you to achieve financial peace of mind.
They'll discuss the core pillars of what financial freedom means, from getting organized and budgeting effectively to managing debt, saving for the future, and building resilience. Learn how to cultivate the right financial mindset and unlock the door to financial wellness and a life of balanced abundance.
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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro2024-06-1452 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 010: Property vs Pensions - Showdown at the Retirement CorralSaddle up, partners, for "The Showdown at the Retirement Corral". How do you wrangle in that perfect nest egg for your golden years? We'll be bustin' broncs of confusion surrounding property and pension investments.
On one side of the corral, we've got the familiar ranch hand, Property. It's a tangible critter, offering that steady stream of rental income and the potential for growth over time. Now, mosey on over to the other side of the corral, where the Pension stands guard. This fella offers some mighty attractive tax benefits and employer contributions.
Warren and Paul...2024-06-0543 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 009: 12 golden rules of investing - Paul's nerdy nuggets get decoded by WarrenIn this episode of "The Finance Geeks," get ready to embark on an epic quest as Paul unveils his twelve golden rules of investing. Each rule is a powerful tool in your arsenal, meticulously honed to guide you through the treacherous dungeons of financial decision-making. But fear not, fellow adventurers, for no quest through the realm of The Finance Geeks is complete without the sage wisdom of Warren, who will be deciphering Paul's Nerdy Nuggets with his own unique insights.
Join us as we delve into the depths of financial strategy, navigating through the twists and turns...2024-05-2138 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 008: Mastering Money with Financial Rules of ThumbA financial heuristic is a mental shortcut you use to make financial decisions quickly and easily. These are also known as financial rules of thumb, and can guide your financial choices without requiring extensive analysis and avoiding information overload. In this episode of The Finance Geeks, we're putting these financial rules of thumb under the microscope.
We'll explore popular rules like the 50/30/20 Rule (50% Needs, 30% wants, 20% invest), the Rule of 72 (calculating investment doubling time), the 100-minus-your-age asset allocation strategy and the Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule), plus many more, revealing their strengths and limitations.
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2024-05-0157 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 007 : The "Enough" Enigma - Cracking the Code to Financial FulfilmentFeeling like you're constantly chasing more money? In this episode of The Finance Geeks, Warren and Paul crack the code to financial fulfilment! We delve into the "Enough" Enigma, revealing why clarity is key to achieving financial peace. Learn why knowing your desired lifestyle and values is crucial, and how Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs helps define your "enough." We'll explore the concept of lifestyle inflation and strategies to avoid the "keeping up with the Joneses" trap. Join us as we equip you with strategies to unlock financial fulfilment and build a life you truly love!
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...2024-04-1751 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 006: Your Financial Force Field - Plan for the unknown and protect yourselfDoes life sometimes feel like a rogue asteroid hurtling towards your financial well-being? Don't panic! This episode equips you with the tools to build a Financial Force Field, deflecting the unexpected financial blows that can send your budget into a black hole.
We explore the importance of an emergency fund. Think of it as your personal starship's warp core reserve.
We'll also blast off into the world of Income Protection. This isn't just your average illness and injury insurance, it's your financial deflector shield against lost income. Whether you're battling a surprise space slug infestation...2024-04-0247 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 005: Action Man vs. the Taxman - Become a tax efficient investment geek!In the ever-present battle for financial dominance, a new challenger emerges! Forget the stock market swings and the endless ticker tape scrolls. Today's fight is against a familiar foe – the Taxman. But fear not, fellow investment geeks! Here at the Finance Geeks Podcast, we're arming you with the knowledge and strategies to become tax-efficient investing heroes. We'll delve into the intricacies of allowances, pensions, and investment accounts, showing you how to maximize your returns while minimizing your tax burden.
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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
8:22 - Hot off the press
12:31 - The fo...2024-03-2252 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 004: Unmasking the Mystery of Investment RiskHave you ever wondered what lurks behind the cryptic phrase "investment risk"? It might sound like a financial boogeyman, shrouded in mystery and ready to pounce on your hard-earned cash. But fear not, as today on The Finance Geeks, we're unmasking the mystery of investment risk.
We will be putting on our metaphorical trench coats and magnifying glasses, delving into the different types of risk lurking in the investment world. We'll shed light on how these risks can impact your portfolio, but more importantly, we'll equip you with the knowledge to become a risk-savvy investor, not a...2024-03-0655 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 003: Level Up Your Finances - Mastering the Art of Budgeting and Cash FlowCalling all financial adventurers! Get ready to slay the debt dragon and conquer your financial fortress with Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute. Join us on this epic quest to master the art of saving and avoiding the traps of impulsive spending.
We'll uncover the secret formula for success (no magic potions needed!), exploring the legendary 50/30/20 rule and the hidden treasures of Compound Interest.
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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
9:09 - Hot off the press
16:40 - The focal point: How much could you save? budgeting, cashflow and getting the balance right
59:46...2024-02-271h 15The Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 002: Secrets to a Happy Life - The Ultimate InvestmentIn this episode, the Geeks ditch the spreadsheets and dive into the ultimate investment - happiness (with dividends that reach every corner of your life). Discover the secrets to unlocking happiness that's bigger, brighter, and more fulfilling than any fleeting financial gain.
So, let's get happy and let's show the world that true happiness is built on more than just numbers – it's built on a foundation of laughter, love, and living life to the fullest!
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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
1:43 - what have you been up to?
7:13 - Hot off...2024-02-2059 minThe Finance Geeks PodcastEpisode 001: 2024 Goals - Crushing It Like a Financial GeekIn this episode, the geeks share their personal and professional goals for the year, offering insights you can apply to your own financial journey. Join The Finance Geeks as we unleash our inner financial nerd and crush 2024 like the fiscally responsible rockstars we are.
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Podcast Reference Links:
UK House Price Index https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/inflationandpriceindices/bulletins/housepriceindex/november2023
When will we get back to low inflation
https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/explainers/will-inflation-in-the-uk-keep-rising
Rising cost of living in the UK
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk...2024-02-121h 04