Shows
Financial Planner Life PodcastOver 50% of New UK Financial Advisers Came Through This ONE Academy!Learn more about the St. James's Place AcademyWhen a financial adviser retires, their clients do not retire with them. Somebody has to be ready to pick up those relationships, and the profession is not currently producing enough people to do it.Sam Oakes welcomes back Gee Foottit, who leads the St James’s Place Academy, the longest running adviser training programme in the profession, to talk through what has changed for 2026.Almost 50% of financial advisers in the UK are over 50, and fewer than 30% are under 40. The Academy was built as a...
2026-10-0155 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastAI And The Future Of Paraplanning with Templi | Jack SleatorA paraplanner sits down on a Monday morning to write one new business suitability report and loses most of the day to it. The document runs to 40+ pages. The client takes it home after a one hour meeting and, if we are honest, reads about five of them.Sam Oakes is joined by Jack Sleator, co-founder of Templi and a former paraplanner and adviser who spent five years inside UK advice firms before he started building software for them. Jack went from a graduate admin scheme at a large Irish wealth manager, into paraplanning at a national...
2026-09-1744 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastNatalie Malone on the Financial Services Career That Puts YOU In Front of Entire WorkforcesAlmost nobody in financial services can explain what an employee benefits consultant actually does all day, which is strange for a specialism that sits inside most of the big advice firms in the UK.Sam Oakes is joined by Natalie Malone, who leads the Risk and Reward team within Titan Wealth's corporate division. Natalie has spent almost 17 years in this part of the profession, starting in junior support roles and working her way up to running a specialist team of healthcare and group risk consultants.Her clients are businesses rather than individuals, so the people...
2026-09-1036 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastJeanne Mpondo Asked a Room of Women Who Invests. Not One Hand Went Up...Jeanne Mpondo asked a room full of women in London whether anybody there was investing in anything. Not one hand went up. She then asked who owned their home or held a pension, and hands went up all over the room.Jeanne Mpondo is a St. James's Place partner running her own practice in London, and a former senior data analyst at S&P Global. She came into financial planning by accident, after helping her uncle raise the funding for long term care.She talks to Sam Oakes about coming through the St. James's Place...
2026-09-0355 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastShe Spent 10 Years in Law Before Taking a HUGE Pay Cut To Become a Financial Planner | Imogen Winfield Towards the end of her ten years in law, Imogen worked out that fifteen hour days for three and a half months would get her to the billable hours she needed for her bonus. She did it, hit the number, and then handed in her notice. Sam Oakes speaks to Imogen Winfield, Paraplanner and soon to be qualified financial planner at City Gate Financial Planning, about the five month career break that became a complete change of profession. Imogen spent a decade at a US law firm, qualifying into lit...
2026-08-3145 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastFrom Financial Planning Degree To Head Of Advice In Dubai | Rebecca EllisRebecca Ellis became a Chartered Fellow in her early twenties, but becoming a financial adviser wasn’t her immediate next step.Today, she is Head of Advice at Titan Wealth International in Dubai, with experience spanning technical financial planning, paraplanning, international advice, operations and leadership.In this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, in partnership with Titan Wealth, Sam Oakes speaks with Rebecca about her career journey and the range of opportunities available within financial planning.Rebecca initially studied accounting and finance at university before switching to a financial planning de...
2026-08-2737 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastYou Can Build A Brilliant Financial Adviser Career Without Going Self-Employed | Laura FordhamLaura Fordham's (Financial Adviser at Titan Wealth) route into financial planning wasn't planned. She spent her first year handling the job entirely alone, while her client bank was still small. She lays out exactly what that year looked like in conversation with Sam Oakes this weekLaura Fordham's route into financial planning wasn't planned. She started out on maternity cover in an admin role at Barclays Wealth, and it was proximity to the financial planning job , printing client packs and greeting people in the office, that first got her curious about the profession. From there she trained...
2026-08-1346 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastHow A Mortgage Adviser Built A Predictable Income As A Financial Planner | Natalie CheesmanNatalie Cheesman, Partner at St. James's Place, joins Sam Oakes to talk about how she built a financial planning practice to £6 million in funds under management in 18 months, without ever fully stepping away from the mortgage business she'd run for 15 years. In this episode, Natalie explains why a transactional mortgage career, however loyal her 1,200-client bank was, left her wanting something more predictable, and what it actually took to build financial planning on top of it rather than instead of it.Natalie talks through passing the CII Investment Advice Diploma in under a year while still running t...
2026-07-3048 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastHow a Financial Advice Podcast Beat £1 Million in Google Ads for recruitment | New Leaf DistributionDan Hobbs, CEO at New Leaf Distribution, joins Sam Oakes to talk about what building their own podcast has delivered for an IFA Network. He's joined by his father, Founder & Chairman of New Leaf Distribution, Mark Hobbs, whose own scepticism about podcasting turned around once it started outperforming close to £1,000,000 spent on Google Ads." In this episode, Dan and Mark explain why Mark was initially convinced podcasting was a gimmick, and what it took for Dan to change his mind. They talk about why New Leaf deliberately avoided the well worn topics every other network already covers, choosing instead t...
2026-07-2754 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastADHD and Neurodiversity Exam Support for Financial Planning from Redmill Advance & NeurosparksDan Armitage (CEO of Neuro Sparks) and David Tait (Founder of Redmill Advance,) joins Sam Oakes to talk about supporting neurodivergent individuals in financial planning. Dan spent a decade as a regulated financial adviser, as well as a bank manager in his early twenties, before founding Neuro Sparks with his mother three years ago. He lives with ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia himself, and that experience now shapes every part of how he trains other financial planners.In this conversation, Dan explains what it was like navigating a career in financial services before he had the language for...
2026-07-2353 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastHow UK Planners Can Advise Clients With US Assets | Matthew SamuelMatthew Samuel, UK Chartered Financial Planner and SEC Regulated Financial Planner at Titan Wealth International, has built a career across both the UK and the international market, specialising in advising clients with US connections and US assets from his base in Dubai.He holds his UK chartered status alongside the Series 65 qualification, which makes him a registered investment adviser under the SEC, the US regulator. That means he can advise American expats living anywhere in the world, UK pension holders based in the US, and anyone navigating assets across both jurisdictions. It is one of the most...
2026-07-2038 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastHow the UK's Youngest Financial Adviser Built a £10 Million AUM Business Before 24 | Romany YouellRomany Youell, Founder of The Finance Woman, qualified as the UK's youngest ever financial adviser at 18 after dropping out of college at 16. By 24 she had built a £10 million financial planning business. But the journey between those two moments nearly broke her.In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Romany to hear the full story. How she grew up going to client meetings with her dad from the age of 11. How she dropped out of college at 16 and qualified as a mortgage adviser before most of her peers had finished their A-levels. How Q...
2026-07-1358 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastAycan Richards on Building and Exiting a Financial Planning Career in the Middle East | Titan WealthAycan Richards, Chartered Financial Planner at Titan Wealth, spent 13 years building a financial planning career across Qatar and Dubai before making the decision to sell her business and hand her clients over to Titan Wealth.In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Aycan to find out what that journey actually looked like. How she moved to Qatar in 2013 with a seven-year-old daughter and no existing client base. How she built trust from scratch using a referral-first approach that eventually became the foundation of a business worth selling. What it meant to be...
2026-07-0941 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastHow Financial Advisers Are Booking 3 to 5 Client Appointments a Week on LinkedIn | Louis AdkinsMost financial advisers already know they should be more active on LinkedIn. What they don't know is why what they're doing isn't working.Free LinkedIn Webinar - book here - http://www.leadgenfs.co.uk/fpl It's not the content. It's not the consistency. It's who they're connected to, what they're saying in messages, and whether they've ever stopped to define exactly who they're trying to reach. Get those three things wrong and LinkedIn produces nothing. Get them right and, as Louis Adkins puts it, consistent inputs get consistent outputs.In...
2026-07-0654 min
Financial Planner Life PodcastAre these the Best Paid Jobs and Benefits in Financial Planning? Frazer James: the best should be paid more! | James MackayFrazer James aren't looking for every candidate. They're looking for A++ people.Check out the jobs and book a meeting with James Mackay today!!And if that's you, or if you’re also interested in attracting some of the industry’s best talent, then this episode was made for you.In this week’s episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes is joined by James Mackay, co-founder of Frazer James, to find out what a firm that's serious about attracting exceptional talent actually looks like from the inside.James and Ch...
2026-04-301h 13Financial Planner Life PodcastInside Titan Wealth: James Kaberry & Andrew Fearon on Consolidation, Private Equity and the Future of Financial AdviceConsolidation is rapidly reshaping the financial planning profession.But what’s really driving it? And what does it actually mean for advisers, firm owners, and the future of advice businesses?In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with James Kaberry and Andrew Fearon, co-founders of Titan Wealth, to unpack the reality behind consolidation, private equity, and the structural changes happening across the industry.Drawing on their experience building one of the UK’s fastest-scaling advice businesses, James and Andrew share an inside perspective on what it really takes to grow...
2026-04-0944 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastBuilding a Financial Planning Career in Public: Lessons, Risks & Opportunities | Hannah WooldridgeWhat happens when you realise your relationship with money needs to change, and it ends up changing your entire life?In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes speaks with Hannah Wooldridge about her journey from living with £10,000 of debt without concern to becoming debt-free and pursuing a career in financial planning.Hannah shares the moment that shifted her perspective, how she paid off her debt within a year, and why that experience sparked a deeper curiosity about saving, investing, and financial independence.She also opens up about leaving a job that n...
2026-04-0237 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom Rugby Player to Financial Adviser: How Titan Wealth’s Sports Academy Supports Career Change | Ethan WallerWhat happens when a professional athlete’s career comes to an end… and what comes next? In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Ethan Waller, a former professional rugby player turned financial planner at Titan Wealth, to explore the reality of transitioning out of sport and into a new career. Ethan shares his personal journey from a 14-year rugby career into financial planning, opening up about the emotional challenges that come with losing identity, structure and purpose, even when you think you’re prepared. He breaks...
2026-03-2648 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastA Financial Adviser Built AI That Replaced His Job for £149 a Month | Max AndersonHow can financial advisers use AI to grow their business without hiring more staff?Book Free Demo of Wealth Space - HereIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Max Anderson, former financial planner and founder of Wealth Space, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the day-to-day reality of running an advice firm.Max built Wealth Space after experiencing the same challenge most advisers face today: capacity.Advice firms are not...
2026-03-1350 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastInvestment Banker to Self Employed IFA | Caroline LaudrenIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, Sam Oakes speaks with Caroline Laudren-Quillet, who transitioned from investment banking at Deutsche Bank to becoming a self-employed IFA and financial planner.Just two years into her financial planning career, Caroline has built £14 million assets under management, while balancing family life and designing a career with genuine flexibility.Caroline shares her full journey from investment banking to financial planning, including how she qualified, why she chose the self-employed IFA route, and how she evaluated different firms b...
2026-03-0559 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastBuilding An International Financial Advice Powerhouse - Titan Wealth International | Tyla Phillips & William BurrowsThe Evolution of International Financial Planning | Titan Wealth International | Dubai Careers and Global Financial Advice OpportunitiesInternational Financial Planning is evolving and Titan Wealth International is helping shape what comes next.In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Tyla Phillips and William Burrows, now part of the senior leadership team at Titan Wealth International, to explore their journey from starting at the bottom in Dubai to becoming leaders within one of the fastest-growing global financial planning businesses.Both Tyla and Will share the harsh early realities...
2026-02-1956 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastRedmill Advance: Raising Standards in Financial Planning Education & Qualifications | David TaitIn this special episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes welcomes David Tait, Managing Director and Founder of Redmill Advance, our official training and development sponsor for 2026.David shares the inspiring growth journey of Redmill Advance and how they are transforming training and development in the financial planning profession through accessible qualifications, CPD, and behavioural support. From self-study learners to large-scale corporate academies, David explains how their tech-first, learner-centric approach is improving pass rates and raising industry standards.We explore learning styles, neurodiversity, and how financial planning firms can deliver consistent...
2026-01-2347 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow A Career Pivot At 45 Built A Purpose-Led Financial Planning Practice | Heather HileyIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes speaks with Heather Hiley, founder of Heather Hiley Financial Planning and a Partner Practice with St. James’s Place. Heather shares her inspiring transition from retail and e-commerce into financial planning via the St James's Place Financial Adviser Academy at the age of 45, showing what’s possible with courage, curiosity, and commitment.🔥 Key Takeaways:A Non-Traditional Start: Heather began her career in retail and ran a furniture business for over 10 years. Despite a long period without contributing to her...
2026-01-0845 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom 17 Clients to £500M+ AUM: How Marc Norris Built a Thriving Financial Planning Firm | Marc NorrisTitle: From 17 Clients to £500M AUM: How Marc Norris Built a Thriving Financial Planning FirmIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes is joined by Marc Norris, founder of Twelve Wealth Management, to explore how he went from estate agency to building a financial advice business with over £500 million under management.Marc shares his journey from day one of the St. James’s Place Academy, through the early years of client acquisition, to leading a team of 38 advisers and staff, with big plans to t...
2025-12-1751 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow A 20% Pay Cut Became A Career Breakthrough In Wealth Management | Neil WhitesideIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes talks with Neil Whiteside, a financial planner at First Equitable, about his winding, risk‑reward career journey from starting as a cashier in banking to embracing financial planning, taking a pay cut for growth as a trainee Financial Planner, and ultimately choosing a role that lets him help build a business rather than just sustain one.Neil shares:How his early roles in banking taught him core skills (customer service, fact‑finding, relationship building).The tough choice to leave a secure management path to p...
2025-12-1157 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastLife as a Hyper Local Female Financial Planner in Bishop’s Stortford | Tammy Salmon & Emma LaytonIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes speaks with Tammy Salmon and Emma Layton of Salmon Financial Planning, a partner practice of St. James’s Place in Bishop’s Stortford.We hear how Emma transitioned from redundancy to a qualified financial planner through the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy, supported by Tammy’s mentorship. Tammy shares her 20-year journey in financial services and why creating a flexible, values-led business was essential for her success and her team’s.Together...
2025-11-2656 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow to Build a Referral-Driven Financial Planning Business with Rosie HooperThis week on the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Rosie Hooper, Chartered Fellow and Financial Planner at Quilter Cheviot. Rosie shares her inspiring 26-year journey from her early days in bank management, through corporate employee benefits, to becoming a highly respected private client planner.Rosie talks candidly about how growing up in a household where money was tight shaped her relationship with finances and fuelled her passion for planning. She opens up about the emotional depth of her client work, why she proudly calls herself a "financial planner" rather than an...
2025-11-1945 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHe Built 40 Clients in a Library. Now He Manages £58M AUM | James WestpfelThis week on the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes speaks with James Westpfel, a financial planner at Foster Denovo, who shares his career journey from self-employed to employed and how going hyper-local helped him build a thriving client base from scratch.After 22 years working in a building society, James made the leap into self-employment. With no client book and no lead funnel, he turned to his local community for opportunity. His strategy? Show up in person, build trust and offer financial guidance where people needed it most.By setting up a weekly financial advice...
2025-11-1236 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom the Trading Floor To Financial Planner with £70 Million AUM | Kanishk SwarupIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Kanishk Swarup shares his incredible journey from high-stakes equity derivatives trading at JP Morgan and Credit Suisse to launching his own financial planning practice through the St. James’s Place Academy.We explore what it’s really like to work on a trading floor, the burnout behind big bonuses, and the unexpected truth: even successful finance professionals often have no financial plan.Kanishk opens up about growing up in a small town in India, landing a scholarship at LSE, navigating culture shock in t...
2025-11-0746 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastActive vs Passive investing: A Pointless Debate for Financial Planners? | Andrew SpenceIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes sits down with Andrew Spence, Co-Founder of Aspen, to challenge the industry’s most controversial questions - what we call the Marmite topics of financial planning.Aspen was born out of something deeper than disruption. After a personal health crisis led Andrew to reflect on the impact of his work, he decided to build a model portfolio service that put purpose, clarity & client outcomes first.Now, he’s leading the charge on topics that divide financial services professionals daily.
2025-10-2955 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastCan 105 Financial Advisers Be Wrong? Find Out! | Sam WallisIs This the Best IFA Network? Sam Oakes Meets Sam Wallis – New Leaf Distribution Visit: reach out to new leaf - click here Welcome back to the Financial Planner Life Podcast, where we explore what it really takes to build a meaningful and rewarding career in financial planning.This week, host Sam Oakes speaks with Sam Wallis, Managing Director of New Leaf Distribution, to unpack how this IFA network is giving self-employed advisers true branding freedom, community support, and the tools they need to thrive.If you’re wondering “Is this t...
2025-10-0334 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastWorking 3 Days a Week as a Financial Planner and Thriving! | Hannah WittyIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Hannah Witty, Chartered Financial Planner at Foster Denovo, to explore her inspiring journey into financial planning. From working on superyachts to becoming one of the earliest Chartered female planners in the UK, Hannah shares the personal and professional hurdles she faced as a woman, a mother, and a leader in a male-dominated industry.We talk about her career beginnings, the impact of becoming a mother, navigating flexibility as an employed adviser, and the emotional realities of returning to work. Hannah also offers insight...
2025-09-2627 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastCareer Tips From Successful Financial Planners Part 1 - Golf Day🎥 Financial Planner Life Golf Day | Game 1: Vikash Kanani vs Paul TaylorReal Golf. Real Financial Planners, Real Finanical Planning Career advice.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify - here Welcome to the first ever Financial Planner Life Golf Day, where the fairway becomes a forum for honest, unfiltered career advice in financial planning.🏌️♂️ The Match:It’s Vikash Kanani (MD, Chatsworth Wealth) vs Paul “The Power” Taylor (Chartered Planner & Coach) in a competitive 9-hole matchplay at Mappley Golf Course, Nottingham.🎒 Caddies: • Paul Bradley (Founder, Chiltern Hills FP) • Jay Dhaliwal (Char...
2025-09-111h 06Financial Planner Life PodcastCareer Tips From Successful Financial Planners Part 2 - Golf DayWelcome to Day 2 of the Financial Planner Life Golf Day – where birdies, bogeys, and brilliant business insights go hand in hand.You can watch this episode on youtube or spotify! here This round sees Michael Yuille CFP™ (aka Mr #ChickenTuesday) and Sam Oakes take on Carla Brown (President of the PFS) and Guy Skinner (Citygate Financial Planning) in a best-of-seven match play showdown — with caddies, clubs, and competitive spirit fully loaded.What starts as a light-hearted game quickly turns into a meaningful conversation about
2025-09-1147 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow to pass the CII R01-RO6 exams (DipPFS) in 6 months. 2025 update! | Gary Paul, John Smith & Rebecca BidwellHow do you pass the CII RO exams and achieve the DipPFS? In this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes speaks with Gary Paul (Academy Relationship Manager, St. James’s Place Academy), John Smith (Qualifications/Technical Trainer, Redmill Advance) and Rebecca Bidwell, who passed the DipPFS in just 5 months.We answer the top questions aspiring advisers ask:What are the RO exams? → Six modules (RO1–RO6) that make up the CII DipPFS qualification.Which R...
2025-09-0129 minFinancial Planner Life Podcast85 First Client Meetings in 2 Months, Why I Love Prospecting! | Jak AliHow do you get clients as a financial planner without buying leads or relying on referrals?In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes interviews Jak Ali, Managing Director of J.A. Financial Planning Ltd, a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management.Jak shares exactly how he generates clients as a financial adviser using creative, confident, and relationship-based business development. He has built his entire client base without depending on lead providers or a legacy client book.After training as a barrister and working on a death penalty case in...
2025-08-2753 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastSo, you want to be a self-employed IFA? Watch this first! | Mark HobbsIf you’re a newly Level 4 Diploma qualified financial adviser with or without CAS status, an experienced financial planner wanting to run your own practice, or a mortgage broker looking to expand into financial planning, this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast is a must-listen.This week, host Sam Oakes speaks with Mark Hobbs, founder of New Leaf Distribution - an IFA network that supports advisers at every stage of their career. From helping mortgage brokers future-proof their income by transitioning into IFA, to supporting financial planners ready to launch their pr...
2025-08-1341 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastAI Is a Fuel, Not a Tool: Redefining Financial Advice with Saturn - Rohit VaishaWhat if your advisers could serve 20–30 more clients, save 45 minutes per meeting, and reduce suitability report time from 3 hours to 10 minutes - all without hiring more support staff?That’s what Saturn AI is already delivering for over 600 financial planning firms ( 1600 Advisers ), and in this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with co-founder Rohit Vaisha to explore how.But this isn’t another “AI will replace advisers” narrative.Saturn’s mission is to enhance human connection
2025-08-0654 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastI never thought someone like me could be a financial planner! | Miriam MurphyThinking about a career in financial planning?In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Miriam Murphy joins Sam Oakes to share her powerful career switch story, from Executive Assistant to qualified financial planner, with support from the St. James’s Place Academy.Miriam opens up about her early money mindset, paying off debt, buying a home, and how mentorship from Rob Gardner helped her see the potential she hadn’t yet recognised in herself. If you're considering becoming a financial planner or making a career change, this is t...
2025-07-2951 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastRestricted or IFA? What is best for my Financial Planning Career - with Wayne Griffiths from One Financial Solutions. Wayne Griffiths | One Financial Solutions | Financial Planner CareersIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sit down with Wayne Griffiths, Managing Partner at One Financial Solutions, to explore how he’s creating meaningful, supportive career paths for self-employed financial planners.We also dive into the ongoing debate: what’s better, restricted or IFA? Wayne shares his honest views and explains why the best advice always comes down to trust and intention—not just labels.Wayne also opens up about his jou...
2025-07-2452 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastSelf-Employed Chartered Financial Planner with £10M AUM, By 26 - Lawrence Bearman from Westminster Wealth ManagementFrom Admin to Self-Employed Financial Planner with £10M AUM by 26! In this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Lawrence Bearman, a 26-year-old Chartered Financial Planner at Westminster Wealth Management who's gone from admin assistant to managing £10 million in assets, all within his first year of self-employment.We unpack:Why Lawrence chose to go self-employed with just £3M AUMHow he tripled his assets in 12 months without cold calls or networking eventsThe £10K personal investment he made to become a better communicatorHis laser-focused niche: high-earning lawyers - book a meeting here ...
2025-07-1548 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom Council Estate to Financial Planning TV & Social Media Influencer! | Emmanuel AsuquoIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, host Sam Oakes reconnects with Emmanuel Asuquo, a leading financial planner, TV personality, and social media educator. Emmanuel was Sam’s second-ever guest when the podcast launched, making this a special full-circle conversation.They dive deep into Emmanuel’s journey from growing up on a council estate to becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable financial planners, using platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube to educate and entertain audiences.Discover how Emmanuel built a purpose-driven career in financial planning, leveraged social...
2025-07-0351 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastShe left the Army and became a Financial Planner Mum, With St James's Place Academy | Katie VolkerIn this episode of the financial planner life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Katie, a former Army officer who transitioned into a successful financial planning career with the St. James’s Place Academy.Katie’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and building a business that fits around life’s big moments, including becoming a mum mid-way through growing her firm.We cover:✅ How military skills like leadership, discipline, and resilience translate into financial planning✅ What it’s really like going through the St. James’s Place Academy
2025-06-2650 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastLet Go or Burn Out: Jeri Williams’ Guide to Reclaiming Your TimeJeri Williams on Scaling a Business, Letting Go of Control, and Building a Life with More FreedomIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes sits down with Jeri Williams, the powerhouse behind Smooth Accounting in the UK and now Smooth Dubai.Jeri shares how she built a business that runs without her, the mindset shift that allowed her to finally let go of control, and why protecting her time is now non-negotiable.We dive deep into:✅ Why she expanded in...
2025-06-1928 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHe Built £12M AUM With Just LinkedIn and a Laptop - Financial Planner Success! | Aleem NijabatIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes speaks with Aleem Nijabat, a self-employed financial planner who built £12 million in AUM without a client bank, without leads, and without a background in finance.Aleem started during lockdown, working alone from his bedroom. He had just qualified, had no clients, and relied entirely on cold outreach through LinkedIn to get started.This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone considering a self-employed career in financial planning, especially those thinking about going it alone.What we cover:
2025-06-1044 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastWhy You Feel Anxious About Money (And Don’t Even Know It) - with Dennis HarhalakisIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes is joined by certified money coach Dennis Harhalakis to explore the powerful emotional side of money - and why financial planners can't afford to ignore it.Dennis shares how our earliest money experiences shape the way we think, feel, and act around money as adults. Whether it’s shame, fear, scarcity, or self-worth, these emotional drivers often get in the way of good financial decision-making. We discuss:Why childhood money stories influence adult financial behaviourHow money shame blocks clients from implementing adv...
2025-05-2648 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom ChatGPT to Chat SJP: The AI Revolution at St. James’s Place | John O'Driscoll & Wenyu Bai (SJP)In this episode, Sam Oakes is joined by John O’Driscoll and Wenyu Bai from St. James’s Place to explore how AI and technology are being developed to support the future of financial planning.Discover how SJP’s 2030 vision is being built around:Advice Assistant: An AI-enabled tool already in production that reduces the time to produce advice packs from hours to minutesChat SJP: An internal GPT-style assistant that delivers fast, accurate, compliant answers to technical questionsAgentic AI: The concept of digital support agents acting as a virtua...
2025-05-1547 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom Rejection to Chartered Financial Planner: Jay Dhaliwal's JourneyIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, host Sam Oakes sits down with Jay Dhaliwal, Chartered Financial Planner at Chase de Vere, to talk about her inspiring career journey.Jay shares how facing rejection twice for financial planner roles early in her career didn’t stop her - it fueled her.Already working as a paraplanner, she used the setbacks as motivation to deepen her technical expertise, achieve Chartered status, and carve out a specialist niche advising NHS medical professionals on their complex pension needs....
2025-04-3046 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom Recruiter to £266M Financial Planner | A Career Change That Paid Off - with Vikash KananiHow a Former Recruiter Built a £266M Financial Planning Business - Vikash’s Journey from BD to Chartered AdviserIn this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes is joined by Chartered Financial Planner Vikash, who shares how he made the bold move from a successful recruitment career into the world of financial advice.Vikash’s story is one of intentional reinvention. After building a strong career in recruitment and business development, he stepped away from the boardroom and into financial planning - starting from scratch, taking a pay cut...
2025-04-2144 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastGo All In on Your Niche When Building a Financial Planning Business from Scratch - Rohit RohelaIn this inspiring episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, host Sam Oakes sits down with Chartered Financial Planner Rohit Rohela, affectionately known as The Tax Terminator and Architect of Financial Freedom. Rohit shares the incredible journey of building his financial planning business, Finsbridge, and the pivotal role that niching down has played in his success. As a long-time listener of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, Rohit credits the show and its guests for sparking his strategy of focusing on specific client communities—a move that has transformed his business.What You’ll Learn in This Epis...
2025-01-2351 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastFrom Kyrgyzstan to UK Financial Planner: Cholpon Djanuzakova - Why Mindset And Hardwork, Always Wins!"Imagine starting over in a new country, grappling with a new language, and breaking into a competitive industry. This is Cholpan Djanuzakova's reality. Her journey from Kyrgyzstan to becoming a top financial adviser and business owner in the UK is a testament to the incredible things you can achieve when you turn your challenges into stepping stones. Tune in as Cholpan shares the secrets to her success and how she uses her cultural heritage to make unforgettable connections in the financial world.Join host Sam Oakes as he and Cholpan delve into how embracing personal h...
2024-12-1145 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow I achieved £500,000 turnover as a self employed financial planner with Foster Denovo | Nikos ChristoforouEver wondered what it takes to successfully transition from product sales to holistic financial planning? Today, Financial Planner Life host Sam Oakes sits down with Nikos Christoforou, a Senior Partner at Foster Denovo, to uncover the challenges, mindset shifts, and strategies that can make or break a career in financial planning.In this episode, Nikos shares his journey from stockbroking and product-focused sales to a values-driven approach in financial planning. Starting as a self-employed advisor, Nikos quickly realized the differences between selling a product and offering comprehensive financial advice. This transformation wasn’t easy, as it required hi...
2024-11-0745 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastBreaking the Age Bias: Investing in the Next Generation of Financial Planners with Kate Bailey and Ryan MilneIn this episode, Managing Director, Kate Bailey, and Associate Partner, Ryan Milne, explore how mentorship, training, and succession planning are driving the next generation of success in the profession. With a rapidly aging adviser workforce and a looming talent shortage, investing in young financial planners is more important than ever. Sam Oakes sit down with Ryan, a young financial planner, and Kate, his mentor, to discuss the challenges they’ve faced and how they’re working together to shape the future of the company - Kate Bailey Financial Planning - and the profession as a whole.Ryan share...
2024-10-0959 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastWomen, Wealth and Podcasting: Tracy Brookes' Journey Through Her Financial Planning CareerIn this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes sits down with financial planner Tracy Brookes for an honest and open conversation about her journey into the financial planning profession. Join us as Tracy discusses her remarkable journey from a chartered financial planner to becoming an influential voice in the financial planning community as the new host of the Wealth and Women podcast. She shares her valuable insights on leadership, organisational strategies, and the importance of a supportive, growth-minded work environment. Learn firsthand how her podcast with the Personal Finance Society (PFS) aims to attract more women to...
2024-09-2045 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastGlobal Compliance in Financial Planning: Insights from Paul Tate of Hoxton Capital ManagementUnlock the secrets of global compliance in financial planning with our special guest, Paul Tate, the Global Head of Compliance at Hoxton Capital Management.From his humble beginnings as a financial advisor in South Africa to his influential role in Dubai, Paul shares his compelling journey and the passion that drives him. Discover how ethics and compliance can positively impact lives across different markets including the UK, Australia, the US, Cyprus (Europe), and South Africa.Navigate the intricate web of global financial regulations as Paul unravels the complex landscape of multi-jurisdictional compliance and...
2024-08-2343 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastThe Transformative Journey of a Young Financial Planner - Dylan EllisTrigger Warning - We discuss Suicide and Addiction. Hosted by: Sam OakesGuest: Dylan Ellis, Financial Planner at St James's PlaceEpisode Overview: In this deeply insightful episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, host Sam Oakes talks with Dylan Ellis, who at just 26 years old has transformed personal adversity into professional success. Dylan candidly shares his story of growing up in poverty, the profound impact of losing his brother to suicide, and his mother's battle with addiction and subsequent death, and how these pivotal moments steered hi...
2024-08-211h 03Financial Planner Life PodcastWhy Switching from Mortgage Advice to IFA is a good idea! With Daniel Hobbs of New LeafAre you a mortgage advisor looking for more stability and long-term growth in your career? Transitioning to an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA) might be the strategic move you’ve been searching for. In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Daniel Hobbs from New Leaf to explore the benefits and challenges of making the shift from mortgage advice to financial planning. They discuss the role of networks like New Leaf in supporting advisors through this transition, the potential for increased financial security and business growth as an IFA, and the key considerations for th...
2024-08-1544 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastLife Protection, Careers and International Opportunities at Hoxton Capital with new hire Adrian Benjamin and Sam OakesAnd another top hire for Hoxton Capital Managment in the UK!Join us on this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast as we sit down with Adrian Benjamin, who recently joined Hoxton Capital Management as a protection consultant. this is Adrians second spin on the Financial Planner Life Podcast! Adrian delves into his motivations for the career move, discussing Hoxton's innovative approach to financial services, their ambitious growth plans, and international reach. Reflecting on his journey over the past two years, Adrian shares his dedication to raising awareness about protection services, his s...
2024-08-1226 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastEmotional Intelligence in Financial Planning with James Woodfall & Sam OakesUnlock the secrets of emotional intelligence in financial planning with James Woodfall, our special guest and ex-financial planner turned EQ expert. Discover how emotional intelligence stacks up against traditional IQ in shaping successful careers in financial planning. Learn why EQ is a game-changer in recruitment, training, and its profound impact on the bottom line. James explains why emotional intelligence is crucial for navigating high-stakes financial conversations. We delve into the science behind neuroplasticity and how mindfulness techniques can catalyse personal and professional growth. Witness the transformational power of empathy and self-awareness in enhancing job performance and client...
2024-07-301h 26Financial Planner Life PodcastBuilding an International Financial Planning Business with $2bil AUM in 6 years! Chris Ball of Hoxton Capital ManagementCurious about the international Financial planning space? Join us for an exclusive conversation with Chris Ball, CEO of Hoxton Capital Management, as he shares the impressive journey of evolving from a business set up at his kitchen table, to a client-centric financial planning powerhouse with over 250 staff in 6 countries, including the UK. Sam Oakes was so impressed with Chris, and Hoxton Capital Management, that he decided to join the company as Head of Creative! in this episode, Chris reveals the company's strategic growth, including navigating the challenges of 2022 and 2023, and the pivotal role of a...
2024-07-2353 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastJonathon Jay - Why I joined Hoxton Capital Managment as Managing Director of UK Financial Planning - With Your Host Sam OakesThis week on the Financial Planner Life Podcast, we welcome back Jonathon Jay who first appeared on the podcast 3.5 years ago and lots has changed since then!This is a special episode for me because I get to announce Jonathon Jay joining Hoxton Capital Management as Director of UK Financial Planning. This is the first episode in the series I'm calling Hoxton Life! What it's really like working for an International Financial Planning Company. Join us as we explore Hoxton Capital Management's ambitious expansion plans in the UK and globally. Jonathan shares in...
2024-07-1246 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow I 6x My Turnover as a Financial Planner - Tom Schofield of Foster Denovo shares with Sam OakesWhat happens when an aspiring professional rugby player swaps the field for financial advising? Join us for a conversation with Tom Schofield, a partner at Foster Denovo, who shares his compelling journey from the highs and lows of sports to carving out a successful career in the financial sector.Discover how his father's influence and the rigorous training at the Quilter Financial Advisory School played crucial roles in reshaping his career path.Tom Schofield walks us through the essential building blocks of a thriving financial advising career. He opens up about the perseverance...
2024-07-0949 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastSam Oakes Talks to Jack Dudley about his career change, from teaching to financial advice and how to get a job in financial planning.What happens when you blend military precision with classroom teaching and then pivot to financial planning? Meet Jack Dudley, a former Royal Engineer and Secondary School educator, who shares his intriguing journey on this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast. Learn how Jack transitioned from the high-pressure world of teaching to a successful career in financial planning, leveraging his skills in numbers and relationship-building to redefine his professional path. Jack's story offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone considering a major career shift.We pull back the curtain on the essential traits and varied pathways t...
2024-07-041h 03Financial Planner Life PodcastWhy I joined the Financial Planning Profession as Head of Creative for Hoxton Capital - Sam OakesToday is a solo episode with your host Sam Oakes who gives and update in his brand new role at Hoxton Capital Managment as the Head Of Creative. Reach out if you are an adviser interested in joining Hoxton in the UK or abroad. - sam@financialplannerlife.comBe sure to follow Financial Planner life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? dr...
2024-05-2911 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHow to set up your own financial planning business | Calum ScottWelcome to the first episode of 2024! And what a fantastic episode to get us going! Calum Scott, Financial Planner and Director of Libertas Financial Management joins Sam Oakes on this step-by-step journey of an episode. We were really fortunate to talk to Calum, his story is certainly inspiring. He walks us through the process of setting up his IFA business, Libertas Financial Management, along with his two business partners. Now in the third year of Calum’s journey with Libertas, we learn about his thought process behind the decision making, how he planned for a thri...
2024-01-181h 16Financial Planner Life PodcastParaplanners – The Engine Behind a Truly Successful Financial Planning Firm | Sam PattersonBack in the world of high-performance Financial Planning pros on the FPL Podcast as this week we’re joined by Sam Patterson, Managing Director of The Patterson Group! Sam’s experience in Financial Planning puts him a cut above the rest when it comes to navigating a career as a Paraplanner. After taking on the role himself, Sam moved into managing a team of successful Paraplanners, and has seen some of his colleagues make serious waves in the world of Paraplanning as a career choice since then. We establish the value of strong back-office support when i...
2023-12-141h 24Financial Planner Life PodcastWhy You Should Become a Financial Planner: Live from ChangefestThe Financial Planner Life hosts Sam Oakes, Elena Stephenson and Charlie Scott were recently invited to speak at The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) Changefest event, to talk all things careers in Financial Planning. This was a chance for us to champion the profession of Financial Planning, raise awareness of the abundance of opportunity out there for those entering the industry, as well as offering expertise on securing a position in a firm. We covered:- Roles within Financial Planning- Salaries, qualifications and relevant skills- ...
2023-11-021h 01Financial Planner Life PodcastUnleash Your Potential – Embracing Self Employment as a Financial PlannerBREAKING FPL NEWS: Sam Oakes and Financial Planner Life have been nominated for the Talent Attraction Award at this year’s Verve Evolution Awards 2023!!! We’re very proud to be nominated so if you’re an FPL listener follow the link to cast your vote and support the Financial Planner Life podcast: Awards – Evolution by The Verve Group (weareverve.co.uk)Our guest this week is Adam Cockerham, Financial Adviser with William Dixon & Associates and Self-Employed career advocate. Adam has mentored Financial Planners entering the industry and was referred to Financial Planner Life after an individual he mentored...
2023-08-241h 11Financial Planner Life PodcastThe Kinvault From Kinherit - Revolutionising Wealth Transfer for IFAs and their ClientsThis week we celebrate the launch of Financial Planner Life – Fintech, where we showcase some of the most innovative technology that helps improves the Financial Planning experience for Financial Planners and their clients. Sam Oakes is pleased to welcome back Ben Mason the CEO of Kinherit a Wills and Trust onto the podcast to talk about their one-of-a-kind online platform called The Kinvault that protects clients and their wealth, reduces stress for families upon the death of a family member and allows timely support from the client's Financial Adviser. By 2027 it’s expected that wealth transfer...
2022-11-1825 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastThe ultimate review of the St James's Place Financial Adviser Academy - Gee FoottitWelcome to the Financial Planner Life Academies where we take a deep dive into the entry-level opportunities and advice academies that are out there to make it easier for you to enter the profession of financial planning. Today in episode 2 of The Financial Planner Life - Academies Sam Oakes is joined by Gee Foottit from the St James's Place Financial Adviser Academy and we cover topics such as the demand for more financial advisers, the history and success of the academy, the structure of it as well as the qualifications that St James's Place can offer you.
2022-09-281h 16Financial Planner Life PodcastA Financial Planner does NOT need to be academic – Sam RobinsonThis week Elena is joined by Sam Robinson, Director of Almond Financial Ltd. Sam proves that you don’t need to be a high performer at school in order to be a successful financial planner. If you have the gift of people skills then the sky’s the limit in this profession. In this episode Sam shares his unusual but fascinating career journey, from chef to financial planning firm director. Sam & Elena also talk about the importance of embedding a strong & positive culture in the workplace, the benefits of having a younger age profile team and how a positive mind...
2022-03-171h 00
Arcane Soakes TVMax Gavins on New Music, Battle Rap, Favourite Artists | Arcane Soakes TVHere we discuss Max's new music and artistic process, his journey through battle rap and current views on it. We also critique and commend the discographys of certain established artists.
Intro song: Max Gavins - "Kamoze" https://youtu.be/OUB56yjPZoM
STREAM MY MUSIC: https://ffm.to/47aepdx
INSTAGRAM: https://biturl.top/VVFVzm
FACEBOOK; https://bit.ly/3sP3Fm7 Max:
YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGH6akMrt8tviJy_xKg8sVQINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/maxgavinsmusic/
---
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/s...
2021-07-3059 minArcane Soakes TVPerforming, Past Jobs, Upcoming Projects | Arcane Soakes TVHere we discuss performing, past jobs, upcoming projects. And more!
Intro song: J.Spinkz - "Paper Plane"
STREAM MY MUSIC: https://ffm.to/47aepdx
INSTAGRAM: https://biturl.top/VVFVzm
FACEBOOK; https://bit.ly/3sP3Fm7
J.Spinkz: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcoLYzm0K_nBS5HI0ID9yEg
https://www.instagram.com/j.spinkz/
---
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sam-oakes/message
2021-07-0647 minArcane Soakes TVTop 5 UK Rappers, Cancel Culture, Addictions | Arcane Soakes TV Episode #004Here we discuss serial killers, cancel culture and our favorite rappers. And more! Intro song: Yorkshire Geordies - “Wonderland” STREAM MY MUSIC: https://ffm.to/47aepdx INSTAGRAM: https://biturl.top/VVFVzm FACEBOOK; https://bit.ly/3sP3Fm7 J.Spinkz: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcoLYzm0K_nBS5HI0ID9yEg https://www.instagram.com/yorkshiregeordies/
---
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sam-oakes/message
2021-05-0842 minArcane Soakes TVThe Wrath of Social Media, Happiness vs Riches, Hard WYR Questions | Arcane Soakes TV Episode #003Here we discuss the wrath of social media and our treatment of it, pretend we know about bitcoin and address the prospect of murdering loved ones.
STREAM MY MUSIC: https://ffm.to/47aepdx
INSTAGRAM: https://biturl.top/VVFVzm
FACEBOOK; https://bit.ly/3sP3Fm7
Joseph: https://www.instagram.com/joseph_marcus/
Alex: https://www.instagram.com/alexdavidconstantin/
---
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sam-oakes/message
2021-04-2248 minArcane Soakes TVDurty Devz on Rap Beef, His Radio Show & (Not) Gigging in Amsterdam | Arcane Soakes TV Episode #002Here we discuss the ongoing disputes between Durty Devz and Jordan Castle and whether beef in Hip Hop is beneficial or detrimental to the progress of the culture, Devz's radio show on Skank FM and where to go for sources of inspiration in times of writer's block.
Intro song: Durty Devz - 4 Cans
Outro song: Durty Devz - Fuck the Cops ft Steve Loc S
TREAM MY MUSIC: https://ffm.to/47aepdx
INSTAGRAM: https://biturl.top/VVFVzm
FACEBOOK; https://bit.ly/3sP3Fm7
DEVZ: https://www.yout...
2021-04-0155 minArcane Soakes TVSkeet | Arcane Soakes TV Episode #001Here we discuss the craft involved in creating music videos, Skeet's latest album, 'Simple Mind' and decision to make visuals for each track. As well as balancing personal life with the yearning to make art and a brief of, as well the current climate of, the Irish Hip Hop scene.
Intro song: Skeet - Headcase feat. Jack Bashful & Rosco Sauce
Outro song: Skeet - Timepiece Feat. Khloe & Durty Devz
---
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sam-oakes/message
2021-03-1150 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastSteven Pyne from Holden & Partners an early adopter of ethical investments and growing a directly authorised IFA practice. “18 years ago you were considered a bit of an oddball if you were talking about Ethical investments, today you’re an oddball if you don't talk about it!” Today’s guest on Episode 36 of the financial planner life podcast is Steven Pyne, one of the founding partners at Holden and partner in London, a directly authorised firm with £500,000,000 of assets under advice. We talk about why ethical financial planning and not being a cog in the wheel were the driving force in setting up his own IFA practice...
2021-03-0549 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastWhy apprenticeships in Finanical Planning are a great way to train the next generation of Financial Advisers🚨 Inspiring entry-level episode 🚨 This weeks episode is with Joel Carter from Rathbone Brothers At 17 years old Joel Carter left the sixth form to pursue a career in financial services, like everyone else he was presented with obstacles to entry, but this did not deter him. he was given the opportunity of work experience in an IFA practice; it was here that he met two Investment Directors from Quilter Cheviot that took the time to educate him about the roles within investment management & arranged some further work experience, this conversation & work experience was vital in giving...
2021-02-241h 00Financial Planner Life PodcastHow to triple your turnover as a financial planner, the private client experience & the benefits of a partnership.🚨Inspiring leadership podcast alert 🚨 Todays guest is James Roberts from Partners Wealth Management in the City of London. James is one of the founding partners of PWM, and today he shares his journey from private banking to building a highly successful boutique #financialplanning company with c£2,500,000,000 AUM. James is 100% dedicated to the client experience, and in his words “it is everything" 💚 he shares what the client journey looks like at PWM and how this has helped some of the partners triple their turnover. 💪 ...
2021-02-161h 16Financial Planner Life PodcastBuilding a start up financial planning company during lock down with Gregg MossThe mood always changes when I talk to financial planners about what they would do if they ran their own business, it becomes a creative, inspiring, and exciting conversation and I love being part of the process. It has never been a better time to start your own business within financial planning! The advice gap, advancements in technology, outsourced solutions, and with the power of social and digital marketing helping you scale and stand out and rapidly establish yourself as an expert within your niche. It is exactly what this week’s guest Gregg...
2021-02-041h 23Financial Planner Life PodcastImpact and Ethical investment focused Financial Planning career with David Macdonald of The Path“I set this business up to revolutionise savings and to give power to people who care about making a difference, not just for themselves and their loved ones but for the community as well”. This week’s guest on the financial planner life podcast is David Macdonald, founder of The Path an ethical and positive impact-focused financial planning firm. I 💚 David’s story, a chance viewing of the powerful documentary Cowspiracy completely changed his career path, he sold his practice and decided to be 100% committed to positive impact financial planning, and...
2021-01-291h 16Financial Planner Life PodcastA career move from Actuary to Self employed IFA, Why Daniel chose Financial Planning as a careerAs the advice gap widens and a high proportion of advisers are set to retire over the next 5- 10 years it's now commonly accepted that we need to increase efforts to attract talent from other professions. I personally find this very interesting, what transferable skills, attributes, and personalities are suited to financial planning? So, when I got the opportunity to interview Daniel Wiltshire a Chartered Fellow Actuary who made the move to Financial Planning, I jumped at the chance. Actuaries tend to be predominantly conventional individuals, they are usu...
2021-01-221h 08Financial Planner Life PodcastMichael Pashley discusses the brand new PIP Qualification, a game changer for all levels of financial plannersIt's no secret that there is a growing adviser gap in the UK and we need new Financial Planners to join the profession and for firms to upskill the growing number of administrators and paraplanners that want to progress their careers into an adviser role. there is a growing misconception that by achieving level 4 qualifications you can walk straight into a financial planning role, sadly this just isn't true. although level 4 is a great indication of technical knowledge, many Financial Planning firms are still put off by the lack of practical experience that a trainee fi...
2021-01-1543 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastLuiza Todd - How to Pass you Cii Diploma in Financial Planning first time with Bespoke Training SolutionsThis week's guest on the financial planner life podcast is that Fabulous ( with a capital Fuh) Luiza Todd of Bespoke training solutions! It’s fair to say Luiza knows a thing two about passing Cii qualifications, over the last 16 years she's helped tens of thousands of students Pass their R0 exams. I really enjoyed this podcast, Luiza is passionate, funny, engaging, and straight-talking, everything you want from a trainer! Bespoke training solutions have simplified the process of passing your R0 exams and created easy to follow study guides and a game-changing App to he...
2020-12-181h 15Financial Planner Life PodcastBenjamin Beck - from the army to financial planning and mentoring the next generation of financial planners.This week's guest on the financial planner life podcast is wealth adviser Benjamin Beck from Nigel Grice and associates.Born and raised in Norway, Benjamin moved to England aged 21, and spent 6 years in the Army before starting a career in financial planning. Let’s face it, getting into the financial planning profession without any experience can be difficult and confusing, and it was no different for Benjamin. This is why Benjamin has taken to LinkedIn to offer free career guidance and mentorship to those just starting out on their financial planning journey. We...
2020-12-1057 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastHanna Hunt - is IFA Administration & Paraplanning the best career route to becoming a Financial Planner?Lots of people ask me 'What's the best route to becoming a financial planner? should I start as an IFA administrator and work my way up to paraplanner and then step into the role of a financial planner, or should I jump straight into a trainee financial planner role? This week's guest on the financial planner life podcast is the recently level 4 qualified Hanna Hunt from Radcliffe & Newlands believes that starting as an IFA administrator is the best route to becoming a financial planner.I Loved talking to Hanna about her journey from IFA administrator in...
2020-12-031h 03Financial Planner Life PodcastTraining and development with Natalie Bell from The Art of Finance Is there an art to delivering training within financial planning? Natalie Bell from the Art of finance definitely believes so.This weeks guest on the financial planner life podcast is Natalie Bell director of culture and engagement at the verve group and managing director of ‘The Art of Finance’ The Art Of Finance delivers a blend of practical and technical training to aspiring compliance, administrators and paraplanners . We cover • #wearechange their charity that aims to attract more...
2020-11-271h 10Financial Planner Life PodcastJason Mountford - Personal Injury Financial Planning and transfering skills from Australia to the UK“In Australia, I was an experienced Financial planner holding the equivalent of chartered status. However, when I moved to the UK that equated to 30 CII credits! I quickly realised I had to leave my ego at the door, retake my exams and adapt to the UK market.”And that’s exactly what Jason did, spending several years in a client relationship manager role, retraining and passing exams, and eventually securing a role with Irwin Mitchel as a personal injury financial planner.I’ve always enjoyed representing financial planners in the clinical negligence and personal injury space an...
2020-11-191h 09Financial Planner Life PodcastTaylor Beavis on LGBTQ+ Financial Planning & running a business with purpose, and why he went self employed / DAon episode 20 of the Financial Planner Life Podcast your host Sam Oakes talks to Taylor Beavis of Universe Financial Advice. Taylor is quite unique. At the age of 25, he is running his own directly authorised IFA practice. After speaking to several IFA business owners, he quickly established that client relationships are everything and having ownership of these will ensure that his business grows in value over time. So for Taylor, self-employment was the only option.His chosen route into the profession was challenged numerous times, being told that he’s too young and perhaps he sho...
2020-10-151h 28Financial Planner Life PodcastMichael Donkor - From Stockbroker to Financial Planner & Personal branding on Social MediaOn this week’s episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, I talk to London-based Financial Planner Michael Donkor. Michael started his financial services career as a personal banker for a leading high street bank before having a successful career in the high-pressure world of stockbroking in London, working his way up to team manager, before deciding to become a Financial Planner. Like many Financial Planners, Michael is looking for ways to stand out from the crowd to attract the right clients and introducers, this has led him to invest more time into his personal bran...
2020-10-081h 47Financial Planner Life PodcastRobert Lewis - the realities of building a directly authorised IFAOn this week’s episode of the financial planner life podcast, I’m joined by Robert Lewis who shares his financial services career journey, from starting with HBOS in the scanning department to eventually running his own directly authorised IFA practice Celtic Financial Planning. We talk about the pressure of running a directly authorised IFA firm and why if you are thinking setting up your own practice to earn more money quickly, this might not be the best option!Its clear Robert cares deeply about his clients and being independent, this spills over into the compa...
2020-09-031h 29Financial Planner Life PodcastAnthony Rowe - From professional basketball to a career in Finanical Planning.Episode 15 of the financial planner life podcast with Sam Oakes. This Weeks Guest on episode 15 of the Financial Planner Life Podcast is Anthony Rowe who is an ex-professional basketball player turned Financial Planner. Anthony first picked up a basketball at the age of 13, he quickly established himself as one of the top young basketball players in the UK securing a college scholarship in the USA with the University of North Georgia and a highly successful professional career in the UK playing for Leicester Riders & the Plymouth Raiders. unfortunately, due to injury, An...
2020-08-171h 06Financial Planner Life PodcastKieran Bywater - From Professional Footballer to Financial Planner, Why he chose Financial Planning as a career.Episode 14 of the Financial Planner Life Podcast with Sam Oakes My dad once said to me (after a skinful of cider & in front of all my mates)… “Sam,you could’ve played football for England.” Totesembarrassing, right?! Thanksfor the vote of confidence daddio, but in reality I was nowhere nearprofessional level. In fact, the statistics are really sobering - less than 1%properly make a living from the game & only 180 of the 1.5 million playingorganised youth football in England wil...
2020-08-101h 06Financial Planner Life PodcastJeremy Korn - on Impact & ESG Investing, why ethical investments are important & the changes to MiFID II for Financial PlannersOn episode 13 of the financial planner life podcast wh Sam Oakes, I’m joined by jeremy Korn who is the CEO of Impact and Invest, a regulated Impact investment platform for financial planners and sophisticated investors. There is approximately £17 billion invested in ethical funds in the UK. 78% of investors say ethical investing is more important to them now than it was five years ago, whilst almost two-thirds of people have increased their investment in sustainable funds over the past five years. Sustainable investments have also grown 107.4% annually since 2012 and they currently account for 18% of assets under management.
2020-08-061h 05Financial Planner Life PodcastCatherine Morgan on financial wellbeing, personal branding and why more women should join the financial planning profession.Sam Oakes from the Financial Planner Life Podcast interviews Catherin Morgan of episode 12This week’s guest is Catherine Morgan who is a multi-award-winning financial planner, podcast host & financial coach at Money Panel. Catherine’s career started in banking as a cashier, quickly rising through the ranks of bancassurance to sales manager, a detour into personal styling proved instrumental in changing the way she thought about financial planning for women. “When sales became a bigger priority than the wellbeing of a client, I knew it was time for a change”Disillusioned with the s...
2020-07-301h 05Financial Planner Life PodcastTina Weeks on coaching clients, running a financial planning business, and how getting to know yourself will make you a better financial plannerThis week Sam Oakes talks to Tina Weeks on the Financial Planner Life Podcast. Sometimes the universe presents people that become influential in your life and for me, on episode 11 of The Financial Planner Life podcast, Tina Weeks was one of those people. I really enjoyed talking to Tina Weeks. Her passion and enthusiasm for the Financial Planning profession is beautiful; we need more women like Tina pioneering and changing the way Financial Planning is delivered. Tina Weeks lives and breathes the relationship-based approach, and is a firm believer that...
2020-07-2252 minFinancial Planner Life PodcastRichard Mikdadi Chartered Fellow on Ultra High Net Worth Financial Planning, Why Team Work Makes the Dream Work, And a Career at Tilney.“As a Financial Planner, you are not trying to sell a thing; you are trying to solve a problem.” I love this quote from Chartered Fellow Richard Mikdadi, a partner at Tilney. I’ve known Richard for over a decade - we sat opposite each other when we both worked for Aviva. I knew back then that he was destined for great things, and that day came when he got to be a guest on The Financial Planner Life podcast. Joking aside, Richard was a fantastic guest who shares some absolute gems around a h...
2020-07-161h 38Financial Planner Life PodcastJonathon Jay, from Trainee Paraplanner to Chartered Financial Planning Director at InvestecThis week’s guest is Jonathon Jay - Associate Director level Financial Planner at Investec Wealth. Jonathon is a prime example of how ambition, hard work, self-belief and a clearly defined goal can propel your financial planning career forward within a short space of time. Jonathon didn’t leave school with the greatest of A-Levels and didn’t go to University. However, this didn’t stop him from achieving his Level 4 DipFA within 7 months and Chartered by the age of 26. Yet again, proving that your school grades do not define your future. Jonathon takes us on...
2020-07-071h 20Financial Planner Life PodcastMakala Green on networking, advising the entertainment industry and being the first black chartered female financial planner in the UK.My guest on Episode 5 of the financial planner life podcast this week is Makala Green. the principal of Green wealth Planning. Makala Green dropped out of college at the age of 16 and started working for a building society as a cashier, she quickly rose through the ranks to become a Financial Planner at the age of 21!Makala’s passion for studying and self-improvement helped her become the first black female Chartered Financial Planner in the UK and most recently a board-level member for the association of black financial professionals, the primary voice of bl...
2020-05-181h 41