AJ Bell Money Matters

From Wall Street to kidnap survivor: how a best-selling author became a life coach

On this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni and Laura discuss how to spot an investing scam and when a finfluencer's posts online are too good to be true.

We also speak to best-selling author and life coach Linda Davies about her extraordinary life. She shares how she started out on Wall Street in the world of investment banking to save up to become a best-selling author, as well as how she overcame a kidnapping and breast cancer to fulfil her dream of becoming a life coach. Linda also shares her top tips to building a healthy view of money.

Focussing on the long-term during market ups and downs

This week on the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni and Laura discuss new legislation being proposed around Buy Now Pay Later schemes. As these loans become increasingly popular, do consumers really understand what they're signing up for, and why has it taken so long for regulators to step in?

We also hear from Troy Asset Management's Charlotte Yonge as we talk through how to focus on long-term views when markets (and headlines) are panicked. From doing your homework to diversification, Charlotte shares her top tips.

Investing in art

In this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, we talk about all things art with Jennifer Conner, UK Regional MD of the Affordable Art Fair. Jennifer shares her top art-buying tips, explains the story behind the Affordable Art Fair, and shares her one rule when buying art as an investment - you have to love it!

Laura and Danni also de-jargon interest rates, breaking down the basics and explaining how the recent cut affects mortgages and savings.

The truth behind responsible investing

On this week's episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters, Danni and Laura are celebrating World Earth Day with an episode all about investing for positive change. You might have heard the term ESG it stands for Environmental, Social and Governance but what does that actually mean when it comes to your money? From the basics of what ESG actually means to understanding what a sustainable fund manager weighs up when building their portfolio, we're peeling back the layers with the help of Schroder's Roberta Barr.

The team also discuss the good news stories... plus a pension error which means some women are owed thousands.

What kids really think about money (and what we’re teaching them!)

In this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni and Laura hear from the team's children spanning from four to eighteen. We know money habits start early in life, so how do they feel about money, do they have any worries, and are we teaching good habits? Find out which kind of account grandparents and relatives can pay into to help boost your child's long-term finances.

We also breakdown recent news of markets spiralling following President Trump's tariffs, and how to avoid making rash decisions which could impact your financial future.

Everything you need to know about tax year end

On this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni is joined by Charlene Young and Rachel Vahey for a tax year end special. The team are breaking down jargon to help you understand what is changing and how to make the most of your money. 

Tax year end can be daunting and complicated, but it can also be a brilliant time to reset your finances. We're covering ISA allowances, tax thresholds, pensions and more with our friendly experts. The team also touch on the £100,000 cliff edge which is generating a lot of interest on TikTok and talk you through some of the benefits you might be missing out on. 

Why mentoring really matters

On this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni and Laura walk through the changes hurtling towards us in April including energy price caps, broadband and council tax.

We also hear from AJ Bell's sales director Alison Mollard and business development team leader Georgia Swallow who are mentor and mentee respectively. When Alison began her career, the financial services sector looked particularly different as she was often the only woman in the room. Both Alison and Georgia share their stories and insights, plus why mentoring is still essential.

Accelerating Action on International Women's Day

On this special episode of the podcast which coincides with International Women’s Day 2025, Danni and Laura talk through our new research which sheds light on the £6.6 billion gender ISA gap. Lots of women have ISAs but they tend to keep their savings in cash which means the growth potential is likely to be lower. Simplifying ISAs, ditching jargon and helping women become more confident with their financial choices are all part of the solution which will hopefully help close the wider gender investment gap.  

We’ve also got a very special guest. Jenny Halpern Prince is the founder of charities the Lady Garden and Access Aspiration, plus she runs her own  PR and brand company and just in case she’s got a few hours spare, she’s also a mum of three. We also hear about the lessons she’s learned over the years and how she feels we can all #AccelerateAction which of course is the theme of this year’s IWD. 

Married with a business

On this episode of the AJ Bell Money Matters podcast, Danni and Laura discuss love and money. Often taboo in relationships, they share their own money stories as well as top tips for those managing joint finances and for people experiencing the single tax.

We also hear from husband-and-wife Matt & Claire Towe who set up a business together. Meet Margo's mission is to make mortgages easy with a focus on women's finances; set up at Matt & Claire's dining table, the couple chat about balancing work and personal lives, managing finances, and creating a company around flexible working. 

https://meetmargo.uk/

Saving for retirement and taking pension payments

On this episode of the pod, Danni and Laura discuss trends from the latest Unemployment Index curated by our charity partner Smart Works.

We also speak to Georgina Taylor from Invesco who walks us through the key things to consider for those preparing to take pension payments, as well as top retirement tips for all ages. Georgina also explains what 'lifestyling' is, and talks about buying an annuity vs taking money in drawdown (and if you can use them together). Plus how she nearly turned down becoming a fund manager at 40.