Join us as we chat to special guests from across the industry about their experiences of getting in and getting on in financial services. On this podcast we aim to bring together peers and industry experts to share real career stories from real people. Find out about study options, exams and routes to qualification, and hear about our guests' experience on subjects including: Getting into Financial Services; where to start? Changing careers and transferrable skills. Routes to Level 4 Qualifi ...
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Paraplanner Podcasts
Welcome to The Financial Planner Life Podcast. We cover an intimate and honest account of what it’s really like to work in the financial planning profession. Our guests share their stories of success, failures and learnings, as well as what to expect from a career in the financial planning profession! We host guests at various stages in their careers, as well as multiple roles to ensure that our audience has a variety each week. Financial planners, business owners, paraplanners and back-offi ...
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Introducing clarityON, the podcast that illuminates the world of finance. Join us as we delve into the complexities of the market, unravel the mysteries of pensions, and explore all things related to wealth management. In each episode, our team including chartered financial planners, investment managers and paraplanners will share their expertise and real-world experiences, ensuring you stay ahead of the game in the world of finance. But clarityON goes beyond numbers and charts; we're passio ...
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The Problem With... podcast is here to challenge the everyday problems or myths we face in financial services and to provide practical solutions. Hosted by Alex and Annabel, we offer practical advice to help financial advisers to take back control of their careers. Whether you are just starting out or looking to enhance your existing business, our mission is to guide you every step of the way. Tune in and transform your advisory journey!
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All LIBF podcasts are now on our main channel https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/libf. For future programmes please subscribe to The LIBF Podcast.
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The Problem With Paraplanner Career Progression
34:21
34:21
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34:21In this episode of The Problem With, hosts Alex and Annabel dive deep into the overlooked and often misunderstood world of paraplanner career progression in financial services. Drawing from their own journeys—from administrator to paraplanner to compliance professional—they unpack why so many firms still lack structured career paths, especially for…
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From Council Estate to Financial Planning TV & Social Media Influencer!
52:11
52:11
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52:11In 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 cou…
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She left the Army and became a Financial Planner Mum, With St James's Place Academy | Katie Volker
51:49
51:49
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51:49In 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 …
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Let Go or Burn Out: Jeri Williams’ Guide to Reclaiming Your Time
29:27
29:27
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29:27Jeri Williams on Scaling a Business, Letting Go of Control, and Building a Life with More Freedom In 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…
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In this episode of The Problem With, hosts Alex and Annabel dive into one of the industry's most debated topics: the role of networks in financial services. They're joined by Paul Day, founder of Network Consulting Services Ltd, who brings over 30 years of industry experience as an advisor and network strategist. Paul shares his insights into why m…
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The M&G Wealth Advice Academy: Supporting you to build your business
30:58
30:58
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30:58In this episode, Natalie Dawes at BTS chats to Allen Ferrol and Stephen Christie at The M&G Wealth Advice Academy about the support their trainee advisers receive, when it comes to building their own business. Key outcomes? Natalie learns about how the support from the team at The Academy is well rounded, thorough and adaptable - helping trainees t…
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He Built £12M AUM With Just LinkedIn and a Laptop - Financial Planner Success! | Aleem Nijabat
44:59
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44:59In 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 entirel…
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In this episode of The Problem With, Alex and Annabel are joined by Nicky from Woven Advice to unpack one of the financial advice industry’s most overlooked areas: platform switching. With Consumer Duty placing increasing pressure on advisers to demonstrate value, platform costs and client outcomes are more important than ever. But is switching wor…
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In this episode of clarityON, Senior Investment Management Services (IMS) Administrator Francisca (Kika) Ferreira and Chartered Financial Adviser Tuhin Miah consider a crucial question for investors: Why should you consolidate your investments? With portfolios increasingly scattered across multiple platforms, investment consolidation isn’t just abo…
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In this episode, we dive into the challenges surrounding Management Information (MI) and how it’s often underutilised by advisers. We explore how, when used effectively, MI can become a powerful tool to drive business growth, uncover weaknesses, and improve performance. We also touch on how other industries refer to MI as “business intelligence” — …
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Why You Feel Anxious About Money (And Don’t Even Know It) - with Dennis Harhalakis
49:22
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49:22In 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, sca…
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In this episode, we confront the uncomfortable truths about being a woman in financial services. From the subtle microaggressions to the overt barriers, we share real experiences that highlight just how challenging the industry can be — and why that needs to change. But this isn’t just about the problems. It’s about the power of authenticity. We ex…
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In this episode of clarityON, Chartered Financial Adviser Vicki Watson and Senior Paraplanner Andrew Kemp unpack everything you need to know about Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) — one of the UK’s most tax-efficient tools for saving and investing. From the basics of Cash ISAs and Stocks & Shares ISAs to the ins and outs of Lifetime ISAs, Junior …
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From ChatGPT to Chat SJP: The AI Revolution at St. James’s Place | John O'Driscoll & Wenyu Bai (SJP)
48:12
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48:12In 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 …
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In this episode, we delve into the critical role of personalised policies within financial services. Moving away from generic templates, we explore how bespoke policies can reflect a company's unique values and operational realities. With 76% of customers expecting personalized experiences, the financial sector must adapt to meet these evolving exp…
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20 Years, 450+ People: The Foster Denovo Growth Journey with Roger Brosch
27:45
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27:45Roger Brosch | 20 Years of Foster Denovo, 47% Growth, and the Launch of Foster Denovo Talks In this episode of Financial Planner Life, we welcome back Roger Brosch, CEO of Foster Denovo, to reflect on a standout year for the business. 47% revenue growth 200+ new hires 7 acquisitions A thriving culture that’s stronger than ever Roger shares what’s d…
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From Rejection to Chartered Financial Planner: Jay Dhaliwal's Journey
46:56
46:56
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46:56In 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…
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In this special hour-long episode, I’m joined by someone who’s not only my yoga teacher, but also a former City lawyer with first-hand experience of financial crime and its consequences. Claire pulls back the curtain on the world of AML (Anti-Money Laundering), compliance, and regulation — and trust me, it's anything but dry. We explore: Why AML ch…
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From Recruiter to £266M Financial Planner | A Career Change That Paid Off - with Vikash Kanani
44:57
44:57
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44:57How a Former Recruiter Built a £266M Financial Planning Business - Vikash’s Journey from BD to Chartered Adviser In 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 stor…
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In this episode of clarityON, CEO Angus Jones is joined by Daniel Smith, Chartered Adviser, to help you make sense of the new tax year. Together, they explore what has changed, what is on the horizon, and how to plan ahead with confidence. Topics include: Key tax year changes to be aware of The latest on pension legislation updates coming in 2027 —…
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In this short and sweet episode, we shine a light on a common pitfall in financial advice — misunderstanding or overlooking FCA roles and permissions. We explore how advisers can get it wrong, what that means in practice, and most importantly, how to check you're operating within the lines. Whether you're an adviser or working with one, this is a m…
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How Financial Planners Can Win with Marketing in 2025 | Samantha Russell
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42:02This week on the Financial Planner Life podcast, I sat down with Samantha Russell, one of the most respected voices in financial adviser marketing in the US. She shared insight after insight. Here’s one that really stuck with me: “Even if someone is referred to you, they’re still going to Google you. What they find next decides whether they pick up…
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In this episode, we’re diving into the often-dreaded but incredibly important annual audit for financial advice firms. We break down what the audit process actually involves, why it’s nothing to fear, and how—believe it or not—it can help you grow and manage your business more effectively. From smart preparation tips to mindset shifts, we’re here t…
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The Problem with Going Directly Authorised
33:33
33:33
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33:33Becoming directly authorised by the FCA is a big step—but is it the right one? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Davies, who has recently gone through the authorisation process himself. He shares: ✅ How to prepare for FCA approval ✅ Whether working with a compliance company made the process easier ✅ The challenges, surprises, and whether he th…
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How well are schools preparing the next generation for the real world of money? In this episode, I sit down with my teenage sons to find out what they’re actually taught in school about finance, how they discuss money with their friends, and the lessons they’re picking up from social media (for better or worse!). It’s an eye-opening conversation th…
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Paul Jackson from Invesco on Investment Strategy & Career Lessons
1:11:14
1:11:14
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1:11:14In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Chris Ball sits down with Paul Jackson, Global Head of Asset Allocation Research at Invesco, to explore the career pivots, market cycles, and investment principles that shaped his journey from working-class beginnings to global leadership. Paul shares his honest reflections on a non-linear care…
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Can You Be a Financial Planner with ADHD & Dyslexia?
1:01:18
1:01:18
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1:01:18This week on The Financial Planner Life Podcast, we’re celebrating Neurodiversity Celebration Week with an inspiring conversation featuring Dan Buckland, a financial planner who has ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. Dan’s story is one of self-doubt, resilience, and transformation. Growing up, he was told by teachers he’d “never amount to anything.” …
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In this episode of clarityON, we’re taking a deep dive into clarityONLINE, our secure, all-in-one digital portal designed to give you a complete view of your financial world. Host Leila Photiou, Digital Marketing Manager, is joined by Gordon Jones, clarity’s Chief Technology Officer, to explore how clarityONLINE empowers clients to track investment…
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Joining The St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy - A Success Story
39:53
39:53
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39:53Will Salmon, BTS Candidate Support and Business Development Adviser sits down with James Locke DipPFS from Chartered Edge Financial Planning, to ask about James' recent experience of being a delegate on the St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy. James used BTS materials during his R0 exams and speaks about how they helped him through his Dipl…
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Hiring Missionaries, Not Mercenaries: How Guy Skinner Built a £1M Financial Planning Firm
51:30
51:30
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51:30Hiring Missionaries, Not Mercenaries with Guy Skinner In this episode of Financial Planner Life, we welcome back Guy Skinner, founder of Citygate Financial Planning, to discuss what it really takes to build a sustainable, mission-driven financial planning firm. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Why ‘Missionaries, Not Mercenaries’ Is the Hiring Philosophy That Works…
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Want to Be a Financial Planner? Here’s What You Need to Know! - with Carla Brown
35:44
35:44
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35:44🚀 How Do We Attract and Develop the Next Generation of Financial Planners? In this episode of Financial Planner Life, I sit down with Carla Brown, President of the Personal Finance Society (PFS) and Founder & CEO of Oakmere Wealth Management, to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities in financial planning today. 🎯 We cover: ✅ The PFS Prof…
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The Problem with Marking Your Own Homework
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17:03In this episode, Alex and Annabel dive into a critical issue in financial services—advisers and compliance companies effectively "marking their own homework." When advisers review their own suitability letters or compliance firms assess templates they’ve provided, is the process truly objective? Or does it create a false sense of security? We explo…
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Chris Ball: Hoxton Wealth’s Big Plans for 2025
59:22
59:22
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59:22Chris Ball is back on the Financial Planner Life Podcast, and this time, we’re diving deep into Hoxton Wealth’s explosive growth in 2024 and what’s coming in 2025. From smashing revenue and AUM targets to a complete brand transformation, Hoxton Wealth has gone from industry underdog to one of the most disruptive firms in financial planning. But not…
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The Problem with the Advice Gap - Is AI the Answer?
33:05
33:05
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33:05Are you wondering how AI can enhance your financial advice business while keeping your client data secure? Or perhaps you're unsure how to offer a service that meets the needs of all potential clients? In this episode, we sit down with Madeleine from Otto Finance, who is at the forefront of AI for financial advisers. She shares her expert insights …
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Performance Coaching for Financial Planners: Unlock Your Full Potential - with Tony Fields
46:25
46:25
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46:25🔥 From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Performance Coaching Transforms Careers 🔥 In this episode of The Financial Planner Life Podcast, I sit down with Tony Fields, a former chartered financial planner turned performance coach, to discuss how high achievers in financial planning—and beyond—can break free from burnout, find clarity, and reach their ful…
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With the tax year-end fast approaching, now is the time to make the most of your allowances and tax-efficient strategies. In this episode of the clarityON Podcast, Francisca (Kika) Ferreira is joined by Naomi Kewell, a Chartered Financial Adviser at clarity, to break down everything you need to know before the Tax Year End, April 5th deadline. Key …
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Crypto, ETFs & Big Money—Why Institutions Are Moving Into Bitcoin. - With Lisa Tyshchenko
32:23
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32:23Bitcoin just smashed past $100K—but is it just another speculative bubble, or is it cementing its place as the digital gold of the future? To get real answers, I sat down with Lisa Tyshchenko, Alternative Investment Specialist, while she was in Dubai. Lisa is a globally connected expert in digital assets, regularly working with family offices, priv…
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We all know T&C (Training & Competence) is a crucial part of financial services, but let’s be honest—does it really add value, or is it just another box-ticking exercise? In this episode, we explore how T&C can become an integrated, engaging, and even enjoyable part of your business. One key element of T&C is ongoing development, often achieved thr…
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Want to Grow as a Financial Planner? Build the Right Team Around You - with Joanna Butler
32:18
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32:18In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, we sit down with Joanna Butler, Director of Client Operations at Foster Denovo. Joanna’s 18-year career within the company is a testament to the firm’s culture of innovation, career development, and commitment to diversity. We explore Joanna’s journey from marketing to operations, how Foster De…
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The Problem with Factfinding – Factfinding is the foundation of financial advice, but is it always done right? In this episode, we uncover the common pitfalls in factfinding, from box-ticking exercises to missing crucial client details. Are advisers truly getting to the heart of their clients' needs, or is the process just another compliance burden…
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Father & Son in Finance: How St. James’s Place Academy Shapes Careers & Succession
48:02
48:02
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48:02Would you trust a financial planner under 30? There’s a big debate in financial planning: Does age matter? Some say younger advisors lack life experience—that they can’t guide clients through retirement, divorce, or legacy planning. Others argue that young planners bring fresh perspectives, long-term commitment, and up-to-date knowledge. After sitt…
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Behind the Headlines: Neil Woodford Reflects on His Career
1:30:16
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1:30:16This week on the Financial Planner Life Podcast, Chris Ball hosts a long-form, unedited conversation with Neil Woodford—one of the most talked-about figures in UK financial services. Neil’s career has been one of immense ambition, remarkable success, and intense scrutiny. From humble beginnings sleeping on his brother’s floor to managing billions o…
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In this episode, we explore the well known challenges of suitability letters. From regulatory pitfalls to common communication gaps, we break down the issues and share our top hints and tips to make your letters more interesting and compliant. Plus, we’re setting a challenge to help you make your suitability reports something that the clients will …
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Go All In on Your Niche When Building a Financial Planning Business from Scratch - Rohit Rohela
52:50
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52:50In 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 ha…
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Are you frustrated by the gap between the promise of CRMs and the reality of getting your team to actually use them? You’re not alone. The Problem with CRMs dives deep into the most overlooked challenge in CRM success: user adoption. Join us as we explore why so many businesses struggle to integrate CRMs into their workflows and how you can overcom…
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In this episode of the clarityON Podcast, Adviser Tuhin Miah and Investment Manager David Eve delve into the world of Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs)—a unique investment opportunity designed to support small, high-growth UK businesses while offering attractive tax benefits. They discuss: How VCTs work and their key features. The 30% income tax relief…
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Switching From Mortgage Adviser to Chartered Financial Planner With Charlotte Walters
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57:59In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, we are joined by Charlotte Walter, an award-winning chartered financial planner and founder of Avail Financial Planning a partner practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management based in Woburn near Milton Keynes. Charlotte shares her inspiring journey from mortgage advising to running her succ…
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Starting a Financial Planning Career at 50 & Writing £400k in Year 1 at Foster Denovo
58:19
58:19
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58:19In this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, we’re joined by Marnel Stafford, a financial planner at Foster Denovo, who shares her remarkable story of pivoting into the profession at 50 and making waves in her first year. 💬 "Starting at 50 might seem late to some, but for me, it was the perfect time. My life experience became my greatest …
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From Classroom to Client Meetings: Laura North's Journey from Teacher to Financial Planner
1:05:45
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1:05:45Laura North, a former college lecturer with 16 years of experience, shares her incredible journey of moving from the classroom to becoming a successful financial planner. Discover how she navigated this life-altering transition, leveraging her teaching skills in a whole new way. Laura's story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone contemplating a ca…
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The Gift of Giving: Charitable Donations and Tax Efficiency
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5:53In this special holiday episode of the clarityON Podcast, host Carrie Hughes is joined by Vicki Watson, Chartered Financial Planner at Clarity, to explore how you can make your charitable donations go further. Whether you’re interested in maximising your Gift Aid benefits, learning about tax-efficient ways to donate shares or property, or leaving a…
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