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Aneka Beneby: Ambition, Motherhood and Redefining Success  In this episode of BWD In The Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management.   Ellie is joined by Aneka Beneby, Senior Portfolio Manager and CFA Charterholder, for a conversation about ambition, motherhood, self-belief and how our definition of success can change throughout our careers.   Aneka shares her journey from growing up in the Bahamas and discovering financial markets almost by chance, to building a career in investment management and making the move to London with a six-month-old baby. She reflects on some of the biggest decisions and challenges she has faced along the way, and the lessons she has learnt about taking risks, putting yourself forward and building a career that feels meaningful beyond titles and promotions.   In this episode, they discuss: Aneka’s journey from the Bahamas into investment management, from starting as an assistant to a CEO to becoming a portfolio managerMaking the move to London with a young baby and why some of the biggest opportunities can come when the timing feels far from perfectAmbition, self-awareness and why women shouldn’t feel they have to shrink themselves in order to be likedAchieving a major promotion and still feeling flat, and how this forced Aneka to rethink what success actually meant to herThe danger of constantly chasing the next achievement, title or piece of external validation rather than learning to enjoy the journeyMotherhood and career, why there is no perfect time to have children and the different trade-offs that come with starting a family at different stages of your careerThe practical things that helped Aneka navigate motherhood alongside a senior career, from support networks and finances to protecting her time and energyWhy women no longer necessarily have to choose between having a successful career and having a family, even if balancing the two is not always easyRepresentation, mentorship and why Aneka feels a responsibility to be the role model for others that she was fortunate enough to see growing upTaking opportunities before you feel ready, from moving countries to appearing on Bloomberg and delivering a TEDx talk, and how doing hard things can build confidence over time  This is an open and honest conversation about ambition, family, career progression and learning to define success on your own terms.   Whether you work in wealth or investment management, are navigating your own career progression, thinking about how family fits alongside ambition, or simply find yourself constantly asking “what’s next?”, this episode is well worth a listen. Chapters00:00 Introduction 00:29 From the Bahamas to finance 02:46 Moving to London 05:04 Confidence and doing hard things 07:25 Ambition and being “too ambitious” 10:00 Representation in a male-dominated industry 12:14 The flat feeling after promotion 15:00 Redefining success 19:02 Motherhood and career trade-offs 21:21 Building a support system 27:10 Returning to work after maternity leave 31:04 Why representation matters 33:55 Bloomberg and the full-circle moment 38:58 TEDx and acting in spite of fear 43:05 Self-talk and managing the inner critic 47:38 Advice to younger Aneka Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clarity, Curiosity & Belonging with Hazel Bowen In episode 57 of BWD In The Know, James Walker is joined by multi-award-winning financial planner Hazel Bowen FPFS TEP for the latest conversation in the Future Fit Financial Planning series.   Hazel's route into the profession was anything but straightforward. Growing up in a working-class household in Norwich, moving from state school to private education on a bursary and later building a successful career in financial planning have all shaped how she thinks about opportunity, leadership and belonging.   Diagnosed as autistic and with ADHD as an adult, Hazel speaks openly about the relief that came with understanding herself differently, the value - and limitations - of labels, and why being neurodivergent cannot simply be treated as something an individual should learn to "fix".   In this episode, James and Hazel discuss: Hazel's upbringing and the impact class and belonging had on her early lifeWhy learning to back yourself can matter more than looking like the "finished article"Her unconventional route from leaving A-levels to becoming a financial plannerServant leadership and why creating a genuine sense of belonging mattersHazel's experience of receiving an autism and ADHD diagnosis as an adultWhy labels can provide understanding without needing to define someoneThe importance of curiosity over assumption when leading different peopleWhy reasonable adjustments can benefit both the individual and the businessMasking, direct communication and becoming more comfortable with who you areWhy "clarity is kindness" when giving feedbackThe difference between cultural fit and cultural enrichmentWhy diversity of thought makes teams and businesses strongerHow experience can become a leadership blind spot when curiosity disappears  This is an open and deeply personal conversation about neurodiversity, leadership and what it really takes to create workplaces where different people can thrive.   Above all, it is a reminder that good leadership does not require having all the answers. Sometimes it starts with being curious enough to recognise that the person opposite you may experience the world very differently. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Future Fit Leadership 01:01 Childhood, Class and Belonging 05:25 Self-Belief and Backing Yourself 07:57 Representation and Speaking Openly 10:43 Finding a Career in Financial Planning 13:38 Servant Leadership and Creating Belonging 15:53 Hazel's Autism and ADHD Diagnosis 21:20 Relief, Labels and Understanding Yourself 27:07 Identity and Communication Differences 35:33 Curiosity and Proper Conversations 38:41 Reasonable Adjustments and Better Performance 44:35 Preparing for Better Conversations 48:32 Masking and Becoming More Yourself 56:12 Why Clarity Is Kindness 62:31 Directness, Honesty and Respect 67:07 Diversity of Thought and Cultural Enrichment 71:43 Curiosity, Experience and Future Leaders 75:25 One Wish: Joy and Belonging Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah Roughsedge: Women and Wealth, Financial Confidence and Rethinking Financial Advice In this episode of BWD In The Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management. Ellie is joined by Sarah Roughsedge, Chartered Financial Planner, author and founder of Eva Wealth, for a conversation about women and wealth, financial confidence and why the traditional advice model hasn’t always worked for everyone. Sarah shares her unconventional journey into financial services, having originally trained as a neuroscientist before changing direction and becoming a financial planner. She reflects on the experiences that led her to recognise how often women were being left out of financial conversations, and why she decided to build an approach designed to make money and investing feel more accessible. In this episode, they discuss: Sarah’s unconventional career journey from neuroscience into financial planning, and how her original training still influences the way she works with clients todayWhy women have historically been left out of core financial conversations and how this can affect confidence around money and investingHow financial services has traditionally communicated differently with men and women, and why language and approach matterMoving beyond products and performance to understand a client’s values, behaviours, priorities and wider lifeWhy clients going through divorce, bereavement and other major life changes may need more time and space before making financial decisionsChallenging the idea that women are naturally more cautious investors, and why confidence and understanding can be more important than capabilityThe role of financial coaching alongside traditional advice and how understanding behaviour can help clients make better decisionsMaking financial guidance more accessible to people who may not fit the traditional wealth management modelThe growing role of AI and technology in financial advice, what it could replace and where trust and human relationships will continue to matterSarah’s wider mission to improve women’s financial confidence through her book, Smart Money, Strong Women, and her upcoming app, MyWealthVault This is an open and thought-provoking conversation about women and wealth, the psychology behind financial decision-making and how the advice profession can continue to evolve to better serve the individual sitting in front of you. Whether you work in wealth management or financial planning, are interested in the future of advice, or simply want to better understand the relationship between money, confidence and behaviour, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah and Evo Wealth 04:01 Creating a Women-Centric Financial Proposition 07:16 Building a Differentiated Financial Service 11:02 Women in Finance and the Boys Club Mentality 16:50 The Evolution of Financial Advice Delivery 21:34 The Importance of Giving Women Space to Decide 25:09 Building a Community for Women in Finance 26:15 The Need for Ongoing Support for Women Clients 27:16 Traditional Advice vs. Personalized Approach 28:29 Sarah's Book: Smart Money Strong 30:26 Content of the Book and Its Benefits 33:28 The Journey of Publishing the Book 35:06 The New Financial App as a Personal Coach 39:11 Launching the App and Community Feedback 40:17 The Role of Coaching in Financial Advice 41:45 The Future of Advice, Technology, and Trust 43:30 The Human Element in Financial Advice 45:31 The Impact of AI and Technology 46:51 The Next Steps for Evo Wealth 50:30 Advice for Advisors on Tailoring for Women Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louisa Braywood: Women, Wealth and the Power of Human Connection  In this episode of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management.   Ellie is joined by Louisa Braywood, Investment Manager, for a conversation about financial confidence, authentic relationship-building and making investing feel more accessible to women.   Louisa shares her unconventional journey into wealth management, beginning her career at just 18 and learning the industry from the ground up. She reflects on developing her technical knowledge, becoming Chartered and discovering that the client-facing, human side of investment management was where her real passion lay.   In this episode, they discuss: Louisa’s unconventional route into wealth management, starting her career at 18 and building confidence through experience and professional qualificationsWhy money is never just money, but represents family, freedom, security and the futureThe importance of empathy, emotional intelligence and understanding behavioural biases when supporting clientsHow AI and technology can make investing more accessible without replacing the value of human relationshipsWhy the investment gap is not a capability issue, but often a confidence and exposure issueInvolving both partners in financial conversations and supporting clients through divorce, bereavement and other significant life eventsRemoving unnecessary jargon and making conversations about money and investing easier to understandBuilding visibility through LinkedIn, personal brand and putting yourself outside your comfort zoneApproaching networking authentically and creating more engaging, inclusive professional eventsLouisa’s ambition to become the person women recommend when they need support with their finances  This is an open and engaging conversation about women and wealth, building genuine relationships and why the most effective investment management goes far beyond portfolios and performance.   Whether you work in wealth management, are developing your career in the profession, or want to understand how investing can become more accessible, relatable and human, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Louisa and episode overview 02:54 Early career, qualifications, and client-facing roles 07:05 The importance of technical knowledge and relationship skills 10:49 Impact of AI and robo-advice on personalised service 15:12 Encouraging women to invest and increasing financial confidence 16:59 Changing industry perceptions and making finance accessible 18:57 Supporting women through life transitions and emotional moments 21:00 The importance of understanding clients’ emotional backgrounds 23:03 Addressing confidence gaps and social influences on women’s investing 24:49 The significance of early pension and savings education 26:46 Learning from industry mentors and shadowing experiences 28:54 Building relationships through in-person and virtual meetings 31:02 Networking strategies and leveraging social media 33:07 Hosting inclusive events and fostering community 35:04 Differentiating oneself in a competitive industry 36:55 Advice for less confident networkers and introverts 39:11 Industry changes needed to attract more women 40:51 Encouraging young women to pursue careers in finance 43:02 Louisa’s vision of success and personal branding 44:57 Final advice to her younger self and closing remarks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Wealth Management to Health Management. Some careers evolve. Others redefine an industry. In this episode of Future Fit Financial Planning, James Walker is joined by Sarah Soar, Founder of Estelle: Health is Wealth and former CEO of Hawksmoor Investment Management, to explore why the future of leadership isn't just about managing wealth, but managing health. Drawing on four decades in financial services and executive leadership, Sarah shares how her experiences of leading through significant organisational change ultimately inspired the launch of Estelle: Health is Wealth; a business built on a simple but powerful belief: the health of your leadership team is your greatest business asset, and one of your biggest business risks. Together, they discuss: Sarah's journey from CEO to entrepreneur Why health management belongs in the boardroom The hidden cost of stress, burnout and poor decision-making Building healthier, higher-performing leadership teams Why prevention delivers better business outcomes than intervention The role of breathwork, movement and nervous system regulation Why the future of leadership starts with healthier people Whether you're leading a financial planning business, advising clients or simply looking to perform at your best, this episode offers a fresh perspective on sustainable leadership and long-term success. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:16 Sarah Soar's 40-year career in wealth management 03:54 Leading through COVID and a major acquisition 04:18 From aspiring doctor to accidental stockbroker 07:00 Discovering yoga and managing pressure 12:47 What yoga really is (and isn't) 16:25 Why daily practice changed everything 18:20 Leaving corporate life and training as a yoga teacher 22:10 Why leaders switch off when they hear the word "yoga" 27:10 Introducing the idea of "Health Management" 31:00 Fight or flight vs rest and digest 35:20 Burnout, business risk and prevention 40:40 Looking after your body like your most valuable asset 43:00 Why corporate culture normalises unhealthy behaviour 47:20 The business case for investing in people 53:00 Faster business, greater pressure and modern leadership 55:10 Why many wellbeing programmes only scratch the surface 59:10 The financial cost of burnout 01:01:20 Making alternative approaches mainstream 01:04:15 Better decisions through calmer leadership 01:07:45 From Wealth Management to Health Management Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some careers follow a carefully mapped-out route. Others take an unexpected turn. In this episode of Future Fit Financial Planning, James Walker is joined by James Connor, Founder & CEO of Connor Broadley, to explore the journey from professional footballer to business owner, and the principles that have shaped nearly two decades of independent financial planning. From earning just £250 in their first month of trading to building one of the City's most respected wealth management firms, James reflects on the importance of client relationships, long-term thinking and staying true to your values, even as the profession continues to evolve. Together, they discuss: James' journey from Millwall Football Club to financial planningWhy client relationships should always come before commercial growthBuilding Connor Broadley with patience, purpose and clear principlesIndustry consolidation and what independent firms should protectSuccession planning and preparing businesses for the futureTechnology, infrastructure and attracting the next generation of clientsWhat leadership, resilience and partnership really look like over the long term Whether you're a financial planner, adviser, business owner or simply interested in building a business with lasting values, this episode offers an honest conversation about growth, integrity and creating something that stands the test of time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marie Smith: Confidence, Community and Creating Meaningful Change   In this episode of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management.   Ellie is joined by Marie Smith, Relationship Associate Partner at Cooper Parry Wealth, for a conversation about confidence, community, inclusive leadership and creating meaningful change within the financial planning profession.   Marie shares her journey from starting in an administrative role to progressing through paraplanning, advice and leadership. She reflects honestly on experiencing imposter syndrome, the importance of mentorship and advocacy, and how learning to recognise her own strengths helped shape her career.   In this episode, they discuss: ·      Marie’s journey from administration and paraplanning into financial advice and leadership ·      Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence throughout your career ·      Why you do not need to feel 100% ready before taking your next step ·      The difference between mentoring talented people and actively advocating for them ·      How leaders can recognise those who may not naturally shout the loudest ·      Why firms need to develop diverse talent rather than simply recruit it from elsewhere ·      What the Women in Finance Charter means and how firms can turn commitments into meaningful action ·      Building professional communities and the story behind SheRocks Business ·      How strengths-based leadership can help people thrive and progress ·      Why empathy, active listening and storytelling will become even more valuable as AI develops ·      The human skills advisers need to continue demonstrating their value ·      Marie’s advice for people beginning their careers in financial planning   This is an open and thoughtful conversation about confidence, representation, leadership and the importance of creating environments in which people can succeed.   Whether you work in wealth management, are developing your career in financial advice, or are interested in how the profession can become more inclusive and human, this episode is well worth a listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emmelia Powell: Building Trust, Visibility and the Future of Advice  In episode 51 of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the second episode of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management. Ellie is joined by Emmelia Powell, Financial Adviser, for a conversation on building trust, finding your voice and creating a more personal, human version of financial advice. Emmelia shares her journey into the profession, from starting out in banking to entering financial advice after having three children, completing her exams and building a career that works around both her family and her clients. In this episode, they discuss: Emmelia’s journey into financial advice and how she found a career that fitsWhy financial advice can be such a powerful profession for women and working mumsBuilding trust with clients and why good advice starts with doing the right thingSupporting sports professionals, business owners and younger clientsWhy no two financial plans should ever look the sameThe role of empathy, patience and lived experience in client relationshipsBuilding a personal brand and the value of being visible onlineHow AI and technology are changing the advice professionWhat the next generation of advisers need to succeedWhy the future of advice needs to be more human, relatable and personal This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about trust, visibility, motherhood, client relationships and the realities of building a career in financial advice.   Whether you work in wealth management, are building a career in advice, or are interested in how the profession can continue to evolve, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emmelia Powell and the episode’s focus on the human side of wealth management 02:45 Emmelia’s background and why she transitioned into financial advice 03:10 Balancing career growth and family life in wealth management 04:46 Internal narratives and challenges faced by women entering the industry 05:34 Experiences shaping Emmelia into her current advising style 06:55 Embracing continuous exploration and innovation in financial advice 07:22 Challenging industry stereotypes and traditional client approaches 09:10 How Emmelia’s client-centric philosophy influences her niche focus on sports professionals 10:04 Benefits of niche specialisation and understanding client nuances 12:31 Differentiating client approaches based on individual needs and circumstances 15:22 Insights into working with athletes, timing of advice, and financial planning nuances 17:36 The importance of early financial education and behaviour in wealth management 19:56 Personalisation, emotional anchors and why money management is human at its core 23:02 Building trust and openness: creating a safe environment for clients 24:04 Balancing empathy with challenging clients effectively 26:38 Influences and role models underpinning Emmelia’s professional development 28:44 Building personal brand online, authenticity and sharing your story 33:29 The role of AI in advice: tools, limitations and enhancing client service 36:26 Tips on using AI thoughtfully while maintaining a personal voice 38:23 The future of AI in wealth management and the human touch’s enduring importance 43:11 Soft skills essential for new advisers in a tech-driven landscape 45:00 Making wealth management appealing to the next generation and industry diversity 52:55 The benefits and challenges of niching: advice for aspiring specialists 56:43 Encouragement for early-career advisers to find their voice and gain visibility 59:58 Key takeaway: the importance of personalised, human-centric financial advice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Excellence, Not Perfection with Ann-Marie Atkins In this special 50th episode of BWD In The Know, James is joined by Ann-Marie Atkins, Head of Entrepreneurs at Evelyn Partners, for a conversation about what really sits behind long-term success in financial planning. Known as one of the UK's leading advisers in the entrepreneur and business owner space, Ann-Marie reflects on the experiences, values and lessons that have shaped her career. In this episode, they discuss:Ann-Marie's journey into financial services and the challenges she faced early in her career Confidence, emotional intelligence and communication in adviceWhy excellence matters more than perfectionBuilding trust with clients and professional introducersCollaboration in delivering better outcomesLeadership, mentoring and high-performing teamsAI, technology and the future of adviceThe growing importance of holistic financial planning This episode is a reminder that the best advisers don't simply provide advice — they bring people, expertise and ideas together to help clients make better decisions.   If you're a financial planner, adviser or leader looking to build trust, improve your impact and future-proof your career, this episode is for you. Chapters00:00 Introduction 00:28 Ann-Marie's Journey Into Financial Services 01:23 Building Confidence & Finding Your Voice 03:29 Fairness, Honesty & Authenticity 04:39 Learning Through Mistakes & Self-Reflection 05:42 Overcoming Fear & High-Stakes Situations 06:42 Understanding Your Core Values 08:36 Childhood Influences, Ambition & Competitiveness 09:16 Sport, Teamwork & Resilience 09:59 Being Taken Seriously in Financial Services 11:24 Mentors, Role Models & Career Development 13:19 Early Leadership Lessons 14:33 Managing Mistakes & High Standards 16:54 Why Collaboration Matters 17:42 Delivering Better Outcomes for Complex Clients 21:29 The Problem with Siloed Advice 24:28 The Risks of Disconnected Planning 27:11 Building Trust Over Time 28:44 Creating High-Performing Teams 30:28 A Client-First Culture 31:35 Excellence, Not Perfection 35:52 AI, Technology & The Future of Advice 44:17 The Future of Collaborative Advice 50:53 Authenticity as a Competitive Advantage 66:14 Closing Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 49 of BWD In The Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the first episode of her new mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management. Ellie is joined by Jay Dhaliwal APFS, Chartered Independent Financial Adviser at Chase de Vere, for a conversation on resilience, representation and the power of showing up. Jay shares her journey into financial advice, from starting her career in financial services to becoming Chartered, building a visible personal brand and using her platform to support others entering the profession. In this episode, they discuss: Jay’s journey into financial advice and the experiences that have shaped her careerThe reality of building a personal brand and putting yourself out thereThe importance of representation within the professionThe role resilience has played throughout Jay’s careerWhy soft skills and building genuine relationships still matterThe value of networking, giving back and supporting others entering the industryHow wealth management can continue to become more human, relatable and accessible This is an open and honest conversation about career journeys, confidence, community and the importance of continuing to show up - even when the path is not always linear. Whether you already work in wealth management, are building a career in financial advice or are simply interested in the people helping to move the profession forward, this episode is well worth a listen. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Jay’s Career Background 01:03 Early Influences and Education Choices 03:18 First Steps into Financial Services 04:37 Transition from Admin to Adviser 05:57 Overcoming Rejection and Career Persistence 06:42 Achieving Chartership and Professional Credibility 07:53 The Power of Intentional Career Planning 09:39 Representation and Diversity in Wealth Management 10:29 Dealing with Being a Minority in the Sector 12:18 Building Resilience and Confidence 14:06 The Role of Personal Branding and Visibility 16:45 Authenticity and Human Connection in Content Creation 18:10 Balancing Professionalism and Personality 20:39 Opportunities from Being Visible 23:01 Encouraging Others to Be Visible and Authentic 27:08 The Importance of Representation and Role Models 29:31 Mentoring and Giving Back to the Community 32:08 Managing Work-Life Balance and Overcoming Self-Doubt 34:28 The Impact of Fitness and Lifestyle on Professional Success 37:15 Networking Through Shared Interests 39:24 The Future of Wealth Management and Adviser Skills 41:40 Excitement for Sector Innovation and Young Talent 45:10 Advice for Aspiring Advisers and Personal Growth 48:33 Changing Perceptions of Age and Diversity in the Sector 49:53 Supporting the Next Generation of Advisers 51:37 Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion in Wealth Management 54:11 Key Takeaways: Resilience, Community, Giving Back 55:20 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CRM Wars: Endgame for the Legacy?In conversation with Paul Miller In this episode, James is joined by Paul Miller to explore why most financial planning firms don’t have a true tech strategy, and why that’s becoming a serious risk. After leading technology at IWP, one of the UK’s early consolidators, Paul has seen first-hand what happens when multiple firms attempt to operate as one, with different systems, inconsistent processes and fragmented data underneath it all. At the centre of the problem is the assumption that the CRM is the source of truth; when in reality, it often isn’t. In this episode, they discuss: Why most firms don’t have a true tech strategyThe limitations of CRM as a “source of truth”The challenge of integrating multiple firms and systemsA practical approach to improving data without stopping the businessThe hidden risks of “shadow AI”Why data quality is becoming critical in M&A valuationsWhy AI will amplify problems if the data isn’t right This episode offers a practical and honest look at the infrastructure behind advice firms — and why getting the foundations right matters more than ever. If you’re a financial planner, firm owner or leader thinking about data, systems or AI, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marketing isn’t the colouring in department. In conversation with Emma Hardiman In this episode, James is joined by Emma Hardiman to explore the role marketing should really play inside a financial planning business, and why it’s often misunderstood. Too often, marketing is treated as a support function, brought in at the end to “make things look good” rather than influence how a firm grows. In this conversation, Emma shares why marketing should sit at the centre of client understanding, trust and strategic decision-making.   In this episode, they discuss: Why marketing is often treated as a “colouring in” functionThe gap between brand, strategy and real growthHow trust is built before any client interactionWhy clients buy belief, not just adviceThe role marketing should play in shaping a businessMoving from reactive activity to strategic influence This episode challenges how financial planning firms think about marketing, and what needs to change for it to truly drive growth.   If you’re a financial planner, business owner or marketer within an advice firm, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Adviser Who Walked Away  In conversation with James McPartland    In this episode, James is joined by James McPartland to explore the story behind building and ultimately walking away from a £400m financial planning business.    Built from scratch under the St. James’s Place model, James and his partners grew a highly successful firm before making the decision to leave and start again. In this candid conversation, he shares what pushed them to that point, what they got wrong along the way, and what they would do differently if they had their time again.    In this episode, they discuss:  Building an advice business from scratch in your twenties Growing organically to £400m of client assets The realities of operating within a large advice model The frustrations that led to the decision to leave What happens when you resign from your own business The risks, pressure and personal impact of starting again Lessons learned — and what they would do differently Why client relationships matter more than brand names   This episode offers a candid and practical look at one of the biggest decisions an adviser can make, and what it really takes to start again.    If you’re a financial planner, adviser or business owner thinking about the future of your firm, this episode is for you.  Chapters  00:00 Introduction  02:20 How James Fell Into Financial Planning  07:00 Starting Out With Just a Phone  12:00 Building an Advice Business in Your Twenties  18:00 Joining St. James’s Place  24:00 Growing the Business to £400m  32:00 When Things Started to Feel Misaligned  40:00 The Frustrations That Built Over Time  48:00 Deciding to Leave the Business  57:00 The Risks of Walking Away  01:05:00 Stress, Family and the Reality of the Decision  01:12:00 Planning the Exit Strategy  01:20:00 Rebuilding the Business From Scratch  01:28:00 Technology, Platforms and the New Proposition  01:36:00 What Other Advisers Should Know  01:44:00 Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back to the Future (of Advice)In conversation with John White & Mike Toole No DeLorean. No flux capacitor. But in this episode, James is joined by John White and Mike Toole to explore a genuinely interesting question: what does the future of financial planning actually look like? And, somewhat ironically, the answer might feel familiar. Rather than consolidation cycles, efficiency drives or purely transactional relationships, the conversation looks toward a future that resembles the best parts of advice’s past — where judgement, empathy and trust sit at the centre of client relationships, supported (not replaced) by technology. John and Mike share their thinking behind building a firm from scratch with quality and character at its core, alongside a view of how AI and automation are reshaping the technical side of planning while leaving the human side more important than ever. In this episode, they discuss: What the “future” of financial advice may actually look likeWhy the human elements of advice are becoming more valuable, not lessBuilding firms around character, culture and long-term qualityAI’s role in reducing technical and administrative loadJudgement, empathy and trust as competitive advantagesMoving away from transactional throughput toward meaningful relationships Ultimately, this episode offers a forward-looking yet grounded perspective on where the profession is heading — and why the future of advice may be less about reinvention and more about rediscovery. If you’re a Financial Planner, Adviser or leader within an advice firm, this episode is for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Episode Overview 04:00 Guest Introductions – John White & Mike Toole 11:30 The Current Financial Advice Landscape 20:15 Changing Expectations of Financial Planners 29:40 Communication, Trust & Client Relationships 39:10 Technology vs Human Connection 48:30 Skills That Matter Most in Modern Advice 58:00 Professional Development & Continuous Learning 01:07:20 Regulation, Value & Commercial Reality 01:16:45 Building Credibility & Differentiation 01:26:10 Future-Proofing Careers in Financial Planning 01:35:30 Advice Firm Culture & Leadership 01:44:15 Key Takeaways From the Discussion 01:51:30 Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI will not increase your business value. It will protect it. In the second episode the Future Fit Financial Planning series, James is joined by Vicky Hicks, Co-Founder of Melo, for an honest conversation about business value, identity, leadership and the realities of today’s M&A market. Vicky shares her journey of building and selling a firm, the personal identity shift that followed, and the lessons she learned about value creation, culture and operational discipline. She offers a rare, candid look at what is really happening in the M&A landscape; from price pressure to what buyers now expect from advice firms. They explore how clearer propositions, consistent processes and strong operational foundations protect long-term value, and why technology has become essential infrastructure rather than a differentiator. In this episode, they cover: How advisers are evolving into coaches, communicators and plannersWhy clear propositions and consistent processes protect business valueTechnology as core infrastructure, not a “nice to have”What buyers are really looking for in today’s M&A marketRising price pressure and shifting valuation expectationsLessons from both nightmare sale stories and record-valuation exitsIdentity, resilience and planning for your own future — not just your clients’ This episode gives owner-managers, advisers and firm leaders a grounded view of where the market is heading — and a reminder that value isn’t created at exit, but in the everyday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.