In 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, they explore:

• Why women leave financial services mid-career
• The power of local, relationship-led client acquisition
• From mortgage adviser to business owner
• Why visibility of women in leadership matters
• How motherhood and financial planning can thrive side-by-side

If you’re considering a career in financial planning or want to build a more inclusive practice, this episode is for you.

00:00 - Intro to Tammy & Emma’s Story
01:45 - Why So Few Women Become Financial Advisers
04:30 - Tammy’s Journey from Mortgage to Financial Advice
07:50 - Emma’s Career Change & Entry via SJP Academy
11:10 - The Role of Mentorship in Career Progression
14:30 - Creating a Flexible, Family-First Advice Firm
18:15 - Visibility of Women in Leadership Roles
22:00 - Local Marketing & The Bishop’s Stortford Mummies
25:45 - Authenticity Over Aggression in Sales
29:00 - Work-Life Balance and Setting Boundaries
32:10 - Advice for Women Entering Financial Planning
35:20 - Who the SJP Academy is Right For
37:45 - Legacy, Purpose & Final Reflections
40:00 - Wrap Up & How to Connect

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