Can the financial planning industry sustain itself without adapting to the needs of new talent? 

Join us on the Financial Planner Life podcast for a thought-provoking conversation with Rob Atherton as we tackle this urgent question. We start by examining entry-level opportunities and the growing debate between employed and self-employed roles. Both Rob and I stress the need for companies to transform their career development plans to cater to ambitious individuals, even those without prior experience. 

My own career journey—from recruitment to a leadership role at Hoxton Capital—adds a personal layer to our discussion, highlighting the diverse paths within the financial planning profession.

As we navigate the complexities of this industry, we focus on the persistent challenges faced by aspiring financial planners, particularly the struggle to find meaningful training opportunities. With a significant portion of current advisors nearing retirement, the urgency to fill the impending advice gap has never been greater. We share our insights and experiences from mentoring individuals through LinkedIn, emphasizing the crucial role of persistence and self-advocacy. Rob and I delve into the barriers that continue to hinder new entrants and advocate for industry-wide changes to provide more employed roles, ultimately ensuring the profession's sustainability and growth.

Our conversation doesn't shy away from the need for modernization within the financial advisory field. We discuss the efficiency gaps caused by outdated processes and underscore the pivotal role of training academies in nurturing new talent. Highlighting the success stories of smaller firms and debating the effectiveness of such investments, we call on large, established companies to lead by example. Imagine a future where financial planning is as structured and supportive as professions like law or accountancy; that's the vision we hope to inspire. Tune in to hear how innovative firms like Hoxton are paving the way, setting new standards, and embracing fresh perspectives to transform the industry for future generations.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

This week is a talent partnership special with St James's Place

Ever wondered how financial advisers can make a monumental impact on women's lives, particularly those navigating high-stakes divorces?

Listen as we sit down with Ceri Griffiths from Willowbrook Financial Planning, who has carved out a unique niche advising women divorcing multi-millionaire CEOs.

Ceri’s journey from a broad clientele to a highly specialized practice offers invaluable lessons on the power of niche marketing, strategic networking, and mission-led content.

She shares her experience and expertise in financial abuse, narcissism, and conflict-free divorce practices, shedding light on the complex dynamics of high-net-worth divorces.

Discover how Dan Priestley's coaching transformed Ceri's approach to business, helping her identify and target the specific needs of her clients. Ceri talks about the unique challenges women face divorcing wealthy and powerful men, and her mission to eliminate financial vulnerability and empower women to become money savvy.

The discussion highlights the importance of finding a target market that aligns with one's personal and professional goals and the role of impactful content in articulating a clear vision.

Learn the nuances of navigating financial advisory relationships, especially in cases involving narcissism and financial abuse, and the supportive role advisors can play in these difficult times.

Ceri also delves into her innovative approach to business development, moving away from traditional networking to building a strong online presence through LinkedIn and other social channels.

She shares insights on creating meaningful connections with like-minded professionals and the value of being "Googleable" through strategic content such as podcasts and blogs.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in financial planning considering niching down, as it is packed with actionable advice on specialization, client relationships, and building a business that not only thrives but also makes a significant difference in the lives of its clients.

If you are interested in joining the St James's Place Academy  - Click here

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Today 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.  - [email protected]

Be sure to follow Financial Planner life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning.

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production.

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? drop Sam a message.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Ever wondered how a young professional scales the heights of the financial planning industry? Ryan Edwards, Client Relationship Manager at Foster Denovo, joins us to share the riveting tale of his career ascent.

Ryan's story is one of bold choices and strategic connections. With an apprenticeship that catapulted him into the fast-paced finance sector, he's on track to become a financial planner by 25, a testament to the power of mentorship and seizing opportunities.

This episode uncovers how companies like Foster Denovo are crafting a new era of financial advising that encourages rapid career progression and nurtures young minds like Ryan.

The conversation highlights the critical role of mentorship in shattering the stereotype of the gray-haired financial advisor and the importance of attracting youthful talent to revitalise an aging industry. Mentorship, as Ryan experienced, isn't just career development—it's an industry revolution.

As we wrap up, we touch on the profound influence financial planners wield on their clients' lives, linking fiscal health to emotional well-being.

Ryan and I explore the emotional rewards that come from guiding individuals toward financial milestones, the significance of financial literacy, and how technology is poised to redefine the industry landscape.

Looking ahead, we anticipate the excitement of a new guard of advisors ready to uphold the legacy of those before them, with Ryan's narrative serving as an inspiration for a vibrant future in financial planning.

If you are interested in joining Foster Denovo - Click here for current Vacancies 

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

• The Journey Continues: Natasha reflects on her progression since her last appearance, detailing the evolution of her career and the impact of her initial podcast episode, one of the most downloaded in our history.
• Networking Mastery: With an impressive track record of attending 120 networking events in just two years, Natasha dives into the nuances of effective networking. She discusses the importance of intrinsic networking, engaging first impressions, strategic preparation, maintaining connections, and the art of follow-up. Her preference for LinkedIn as a networking tool provides listeners with practical advice for enhancing their online networking strategy.
• Building an Online Presence: Natasha emphasises the significance of a strong online presence for personal branding and client engagement. She shares her successful strategies for visibility, including podcast appearances and social media engagement, and reveals which platforms have yielded the best results for her.
• Client Meeting Strategies: Natasha offers a behind-the-scenes look at preparing for and conducting client meetings. From comprehensive preparation to utilizing prompt sheets for different meeting types, sticking to a process, and the importance of client and mentor feedback, she provides a roadmap for effective client interactions.
• The Power of Partnership: Natasha speaks to the essence of the 'St James Place Partnership,' highlighting the support, community feel, training opportunities, and the unique partnership experience that has fuelled her growth and success.
• Looking Ahead: What does the future hold for Natasha? Listen in as she outlines her plans for continuing her impactful journey in financial planning.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Episode 2 of the Foster Denovo talent partnership series. Click here to see the latest job opportunities with Foster Denovo. 

Embark on a journey with the remarkable Josie Freeman of Foster Denovo as she shares her ascent from history graduate to financial planning aficionado. Through her story, we uncover the transformative impact of mentorship, structured career development, and the undeniable importance of financial education in today's digital age. Josie's narrative invites us to consider the infinite possibilities that await in the financial planning sector for those with the drive to succeed.

This episode unpacks the realities of growing within the financial planning industry, offering listeners a front-row seat to Josie's progression from administrative beginnings to a commanding practice manager role. Her experiences shed light on the dual art of cultivating technical know-how alongside essential relationship-building techniques, proving that success in this field hinges on juggling both with grace. Josie's insights into professional trajectories will resonate with anyone looking to carve out their own path in this dynamic space.

Listen in as we navigate the nuances of supporting advisors and clients, the strategic importance of personal development plans, and the delicate balance required in management roles. Josie's candid reflections on the rise through the ranks of financial planning not only offer guidance but also celebrate the personal satisfaction that accompanies each new career milestone. Her story is a beacon for ambitious individuals, illuminating the diverse pathways to achievement in the financial planning profession.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Charlie Scott is joined by Phoebe Ellis, the remarkable Rising Star of 2023 from the Women in Finance Awards and Client Relationship Manager at First Wealth, graces our podcast with her vibrant journey from the world of PE and art to the financial sector. 

Her path, influenced by personal connections and a drive for inclusivity, echoes throughout our discussion, offering a fresh perspective on finding one's niche in the often-intimidating world of finance.

 At First Wealth, Phoebe's story unfolds within a firm that prides itself on being a B Corp, valuing impact on society and the environment as much as client satisfaction.

Navigating the financial industry is no small feat, yet Phoebe does so with grace, balancing client engagement and advisor support within First Wealth's unique 'pod' system. 

Her candid sharing of the challenges and triumphs of pursuing professional qualifications, like the CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, underscores the importance of resilience in personal growth. 

Her position as a B Corp leader further illuminates how non-traditional roles within finance can spearhead positive change, proving that every team member can have a profound influence on a company's ethos and action.

This episode takes a sharp turn into the significance of diversity and inclusive financial education, both of which are transforming the finance landscape. As Phoebe discusses initiatives like Thrive, co-founded by Robert Kaplan, it becomes clear that democratizing financial advice is not just a dream but an actionable goal. 

The platform's mission to break cycles of financial illiteracy is a testament to the evolving face of finance—one that embraces different backgrounds and strives for an inclusive future. 

Whether you're in the financial sector or simply curious about the people that shape it, Phoebe's insights offer a compelling narrative on the power of inclusion and education.

Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill Advance

Whether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.

✅ Trusted by top UK firms

👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fpl

Be sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about  career development within Financial Planning. 

Reach out to [email protected] in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. 

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.