Welcome back to the Pyllon Ultra Pod. In this short episode, we explore a tension many athletes and coaches feel but rarely voice: why does branding and polished packaging often outshine hard-won experience in today’s coaching world? I reflect on what real coaching value looks like — not the spreadsheets or the slogans, but the deep, often unseen w…

In the latest episode of IFA Talk, we’re diving into the findings of The Lang Cat’s State of The Advice Nation report with Steve Nelson, Insights Director at The Lang Cat. Co-hosting with our Editor, Sue Whitbread is our very own Senior Financial Journalist, Jenny Hunter, who brings a unique perspective as a part-time Chartered Paraplanner herself.…

In this month’s special Mortgage & Property edition of IFA Talk, Jenny and Meg explore the fast-evolving world of later life lending — a sector which is gaining momentum and rapidly beginning to capture growing interest among advisers and clients alike. As demand grows for more flexible borrowing options in later life, we’ll be unpacking how advise…

For this week’s episode, we’re diving into the world of AI in financial advice. With tech adoption on the rise, there’s plenty to unpack – from the potential of AI to streamline processes to the risk of losing that all-important human touch. Joining IFA Magazine’s Senior Financial Journalist Jenny Hunter and Editor Sue Whitbread are two industry ex…

In this week’s episode, Matt and Jenny dive into the world of MPS with expert James Giblin, a Multi-Asset Fund Manager at L&G. James discusses how advisers view MPS—whether it’s more of a product, a service, or something in between—and what really matters when it comes to picking the right solution. James explores what makes an MPS relationship wor…

In this deeply honest episode of the Pyllon Ultra podcast, we’re joined by Pyllon coach John Connolly and long-time athlete Rachel Normand — a fierce competitor, thoughtful human, and now, a mother expecting her second child. We talk openly about what it means to navigate training, identity, and life as a female athlete, especially during and after…

Let’s face it—Letters of Authority (LoAs) are one of the biggest pain points in financial services. They should be straightforward, but more often than not, they’re anything but. In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, we’re digging into why that is, and more importantly, what’s being done to make the process better. Joining us for a proper deep-dive i…

✍️ Show Notes (Description): Most people don’t think of ultra-running as creative. It’s numbers. It’s structure. It’s repetition. But the best runners — the ones who stay in it for the long haul — often aren’t just tough. They’re imaginative. Flexible. Quietly inventive. In this episode, I explore why creativity is a powerful tool in training, raci…

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, we dive into one of the most exciting developments in personalised advice: behavioural finance. We explore why the days of one-size-fits-all advice are numbered — and how understanding how clients feel and behave around money can make all the difference. Joining Matt and Sue to unpack all of this is Dr Greg B. Da…

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, Jenny Hunter and Sue Whitbread dig into one of the most important regulatory developments facing financial advisers and firms today – the FCA’s newly launched strategy for 2025 to 2030. What does the strategy actually say? What does it mean for firms in the short and long term? And how can advisers prepare for wh…

This week on IFA Talk, hosts Matt and Sue tackle one of the most significant developments shaking global markets—Trump’s reintroduction of tariffs. With markets on edge and economic forecasts shifting rapidly, we’re joined by Nicolò Bragazza, Associate Portfolio Manager on Morningstar Wealth’s multi-asset team, to break down what financial advisers…

In this month's special 'Insurance & Protection' episode of IFA Talk, Matt and Sue are diving into a topic that sits at the core of great financial planning; value in the protection space. We hear the word 'value' all the time, but what does it actually mean? Is it just about price? Or is it about the true worth and benefits protection brings to cl…

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, Jenny and Sue are diving into the world of US investing—at a time when markets feel more jittery than ever. With recent volatility shaking investor confidence and big headlines dominating the financial news, it’s never been more important for advisers to help clients keep calm and stay focused. That’s why we have…

In this special Mortgage and Property edition of IFA Talk, hosts Sue and Matt explore how financial advisers can better support clients with more complex borrowing needs. They’re joined by Chris Blewitt, Head of Mortgage Distribution at Darlington Building Society, an organisation known for its flexible and personal approach to lending. Together, t…

In this special episode of the Pyllon Ultra Pod, I sit down with Pyllon coach John Connolly and long-time creative collaborator (and pal) Gavin Bussey, just ahead of the release of A Run Through Darkness — the film documenting my 3,000km run across New Zealand. We talk about the discomfort of putting something so personal out into the world, the ro…

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, we mark a major milestone in retirement planning: ten years since the introduction of Pension Freedoms. Jenny Hunter and Sue Whitbread are joined by Ed Monk, Associate Director at Fidelity International, to reflect on how this seismic shift has shaped the retirement landscape – and what advisers need to consider …

What happens after the race is done, the film is released, or the effort is over? In this solo reflection, Paul explores the quiet space between doing the work and discovering what it meant. Drawing from his own experience at the Yukon Arctic Ultra — and a story from Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert — this episode is about stillness, identity, and tr…

In this episode of IFA Talk, we’re tackling some of the biggest questions in today’s global stock markets. US stockmarket indices have recently dipped to their lowest levels since last September, as concerns over tariffs, inflation, and even a potential US recession weigh on investors’ minds. Is this just a short-term correction, or the start of so…

Welcome to another special episode of IFA Talk in partnership with GBI Magazine. This time, we look at the ever-evolving VCT landscape and the opportunities it brings. IFA Magazine’s Senior Financial Journalist, Jenny Hunter, and GBI’s Content Editor, Matt Williams, are joined by James D’Mello, the Head of IFA Distribution at Fuel Ventures. With 15…

In this latest episode of IFA Talk, Sue and Jenny explore a challenge that financial advisers frequently face—helping clients move beyond the security of cash savings and towards long-term investment growth. This discussion highlights why so many savers still default to Cash ISAs, despite decades of evidence showing that investment returns have sig…

This episode is a little different from our usual structured approach. It’s a raw and honest conversation between two friends—Pyllon coach Paul Giblin and fellow coach John Connolly. Paul shares the repercussions of his Yukon Arctic Ultra experience, including the frostbite he suffered during the race and the long road to recovery. It’s not all ser…

The Autumn Budget shook things up when the Chancellor announced plans to bring pensions into the inheritance tax (IHT) net from April 2027. This shift has sparked big questions for advisers, especially around balancing pension strategies with protection planning. In this episode, we dive into: How the IHT changes impact pension planning — especiall…

In this episode of IFA Talk, we’re tackling one of the biggest issues in financial services today: the gender gap. While progress has been made, women in finance still face significant barriers to leadership, a persistent gender pay gap, and a workplace culture that often overlooks their contributions. But this isn’t just a matter of fairness—it’s …

In honour of last Saturday’s International Women's Day, IFA Magazine is excited to share this special edition of our weekly podcast, IFA Talk, focusing on strategies to bridge the gender investing gap. Recent data from Barclays Smart Investor indicates that women are disproportionately at risk of falling through the "advice gap" when it comes to in…

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re bringing you a special episode of IFA Talk, the weekly podcast from IFA Magazine. This time, we’re shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible contributions of women in financial services. Join Jenny Hunter and Sue Whitbread as they sit down with Yasmina Siadatan, Chief Revenue Officer at D…

Later life lending is evolving rapidly, with new products, changing regulations, and growing opportunities for advisers and their clients. In this special Mortgage and Property edition of IFA Talk, we’re joined by Sanjay Gadhia, Head of Sales at Standard Life Home Finance, who brings his expertise and passion for supporting advisers in this importa…

In this episode of IFA Talk, Jenny and Sue are diving into the evolving financial landscape and what it means for advisers and their clients. With tax and pension changes following the 2024 Autumn Budget, it’s more important than ever for advisers to stay informed on the latest trends and opportunities in financial planning. To discuss these develo…

Retirement income planning is evolving fast — and staying ahead of the curve is crucial for advisers. With the FCA’s retirement income advice review sparking big conversations last year, 2025 brings even more focus from the regulator on ensuring firms deliver the best outcomes for clients. The regulator is watching closely, so it’s essential to sta…

In this episode of IFA Talk, we explore the rising demand for income protection and what is driving its strong growth over the past 12 months. To help us unpack this topic, we are joined by Shelley Read, Senior Protection Technical Manager at Royal London. Shelley shares her expert insights into the factors influencing this increase, how advisers c…

Welcome to a special episode of IFA Talk in partnership with GBI Magazine. In this discussion, we take a deep dive into Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) as they mark their 30th anniversary. How have they evolved since their inception? Why do they remain relevant in today’s investment landscape? And what does the future hold? To answer these questions,…

Many financial advisers are turning to outsourced investment solutions—but for those who prefer to keep full control in-house, the challenges are different. Can technology help? If so, how? What are the key obstacles, and how can advisers overcome them? In this episode, we dive into these pressing questions with Symon Stickney, Founder and CEO of C…

We’re excited to bring you another insightful conversation from the world of financial services. Hosted by Sue Whitbread, editor of IFA Magazine, and senior financial journalist, Jenny Hunter, this week’s episode shines a spotlight on key topics from within the paraplanner profession.By IFA Magazine

This week, Jenny and Brandon are diving into what lies ahead for investing in 2025. After the rollercoaster of 2024, the year ahead might look calmer, but it’s still packed with important questions and opportunities for advisers and their clients. We are joined this week by Dan Kemp, Chief Research and Investment Officer at Morningstar. Dan shares …

In our latest IFA Talk podcast, hosts Jenny and Brandon sit down with Stuart Breyer, CEO of Mallowstreet, to talk all things AI and its growing role in financial services. Stu shares how Mallowstreet is using AI, especially their SOFI tool, to make things run smoother and drive innovation. They chat about how AI can work alongside advisers to boost…

A thriving property market relies on a strong foundation of first-time buyers. But with rising concerns about prolonged higher interest rates and the changes to those temporary stamp duty reliefs coming in from 1st April, the landscape is changing—and not in their favour. These shifts will impact everyone looking to move, but first-time buyers face…

On this week’s IFA Talk podcast, Sue and Brandon sit down with Andrew Rockey, Head of Investment Solutions, and Tom Ball, Investment Solutions Director at Brooks Macdonald. Together, they explore how advisers can navigate today’s challenges and uncover opportunities to deliver effective, client-focused investment solutions.…

Sue and Brandon’s guest on this week’s IFA Talk Podcast is Mark Sherlock, Head of US equities at Federated Hermes. In this episode, Mark tells us why he’s generally feeling positive about US investment prospects – particularly in the small and mid-cap arena where valuations remain compelling. They discuss some of the uncertainties as well as risks …

In this episode of IFA Talk, Glamis IFA's Charles Chami, an IFA based in Bristol, discusses some of the many challenges he faces in his role as an IFA and as a director of a directly authorised business. Charles reveals what it was like moving from working an investment bank into the world of financial advice and what some of the biggest challenges…

When it comes to insurance, your clients almost always think about protecting their homes, cars, businesses and even lives but often neglect to shield the thing that makes that all possible, their income. On the show today, Sue and Brandon welcome back Rose St Louis, Protection Director at Lloyds Banking Group – someone who is particularly passiona…

In this episode of the Pyllon Ultra Podcast, Paul Giblin dives deep into the art of race planning. As you finalise your 2025 race schedule, it’s essential to choose events that align with your goals, capacity, and long-term ambitions. Paul challenges the belief that more races equal better preparation and shares practical advice on how to build a t…

Welcome to a special episode of IFA Talk, brought to you in partnership with GBI Magazine. In this week’s podcast, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most pressing and exciting topics of our time—how we’re powering the future and navigating the energy transition. Hosted by Matt Williams, Content Editor at GBI and IFA Magazine, alongside IFA Mag…

In this episode of the Pyllon Ultra Pod, Paul dives into the challenges of perfectionism in ultrarunning and life. Why do we chase the perfect training plan, race, or outcome? Paul reflects on his personal struggles with perfectionism, shares lessons from his own failures, and offers practical advice on how to let go of overthinking to embrace prog…

In this episode of IFA Talk, we're getting into a topic that’s been stirring up some serious conversation in the financial world—how well are advisers really connecting with their women clients? Jenny Hunter, our Senior Financial Journalist, and Editor Sue Whitbread dig into some eye-opening research called "Women and Financial Advice."…

Welcome to this week’s Mortgage & Property edition of IFA Talk! In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of later-life lending—a sector experiencing rapid growth and opening up incredible opportunities for advisers and their clients. Joining us is Dave Harris, CEO of specialist later life lender, more2life. With his wealth of experience and…

Our guest on this week’s IFA Talk is Ruth Handcock, Chief Executive of Octopus Money – and someone who’s always been so passionate about the future of financial advice as she makes so clear in this conversation. During her chat with Sue and Brandon, Ruth explains how by using a combination of coaches (aka humans!) and great tech, Ruth and her team …

In this week’s show, Sue and Brandon talk to Shanti Kelleman firstly to reflect on some of the ideas her and her team got right in 2024. They progress to talk about her thoughts on some of the possible positive events she’s seeing ( spoiler alert – look out for some surprises here!), then it rolls into where some of the key risks might lie and how …

In this week’s special edition of our IFA Talk, Sue and Brandon focus on the measures announced in last week’s budget that are of most relevance to advisers and their clients. Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first budget was always going to involve some big decisions. And big was what she delivered - announcing the biggest budget tax rises we’ve seen in …

We’re used to seeing fixed rate mortgages being offered for a 2 year term or even up to 5 years but recently the market has been moving to offer even longer fixed rate products. Sue and Brandon’s guest on today’s Mortgage & Property special edition of the IFA Talk podcast is really on top of all this and she is Rachael Hunnisett, Director Of Mortga…

In this episode of IFA Talk, Jenny and Brandon dig into the topic of Business Protection and why it’s something advisers shouldn’t overlook. In fact, it’s something that should be at the forefront of planning for businesses to have the right cover in place to protect both the company and its clients when the unexpected happens.…

Welcome to our latest IFA Talk podcast! In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of UK Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), which have faced recent challenges but currently show signs of revitalisation. Joining us is Matt Norris, Head of Real Estate Securities at Gravis, who will walk us through seven key factors that could spark a po…