In this episode, Abraham Okusanya talks with Matthew Hutton, author of Your Last Gift, about the importance of planning for death. Matthew shares his personal journey and discusses the practical steps—like creating wills and letters of wishes—that can help ease the burden on loved ones. They also explore the role financial advisers play in guiding these sensitive conversations.

Key Takeaways:

• Planning for death is a gift to loved ones.
• Your Last Gift simplifies end-of-life planning.
• Wills, checklists, and trusts ensure assets are managed and protected.
• Financial advisers are crucial in these discussions.

Find out more about the podcast here.

In this episode, Abraham sits down with David Hole to explore the world of non-regulated financial planning and his journey from being a financial advisor to becoming a money coach. David shares his motivations behind this career shift and offers insights into the value of non-regulated financial planning and the growing role of money coaching. We discuss the impact of timeline software, the importance of regulated advisors, and how alternative financial models are shaping the future of the industry. David also highlights how lower charges can enhance client outcomes and stresses the need for a client-centric approach in today’s evolving financial landscape.

Simon Rogerson, Founder and CEO of the Octopus Group, shares the story of how he founded Octopus and the challenges they faced in the early days. He emphasises the importance of trust and simplicity in the financial services industry and how Octopus aims to build businesses that prioritise customer happiness. Rogerson also discusses the success of Octopus Energy and their disruptive force in the energy market. He explains the thinking behind Circle, Octopus' platform market venture, and their long-term commitment to building special businesses. Rogerson concludes by discussing Octopus' decision to remain a private company and their focus on creating value over the long term. Simon Rogerson discusses the possibility of Octopus Energy becoming a public company and his personal motivations for running the business.

Platforms 1.0 and 2.0 were not fit for purpose, but platform 3.0 is a true revolution. It prioritises the adviser-client relationship and allows for a fully digital proposition. The data fragmentation and lack of API integration in platform 2.0 led to a dysfunctional ecosystem. Platform 3.0 aims to align with advisers and their clients, moving control of the market closer to the customer. The commercial alignment of cost and the availability of real-time data are crucial for a successful platform. API-first companies like Stripe have set a new standard for seamless integration and instant data availability. In this conversation, Abraham and David discuss the differences between API-first and API-facade approaches in platform development. They explore the challenges of migrating from legacy systems to new technology and the impact it has on businesses. They also discuss the importance of creating a seamless integration of critical advice tools for financial advisers and the role of platforms in the distribution of financial services. They highlight the need for long-term commitment and resources to build and sustain a platform. Overall, they express excitement about the partnership between Timeline and Seccl and the potential for transformation in the financial advice industry.

In this episode, Abraham interviews Amyr Rocha Lima, the managing director of Strategic Wealth Partners.

They discuss the journey of young financial planners and the challenges they face in the industry. They also explore the trend of frustrated succession plans and the reasons behind their failure. Amyr shares his own experience of starting his own financial planning firm and the vision behind Strategic Wealth Partners. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a firm where both clients and employees can be proud to be a part of. Find out more about the episode here.

Dennis Hall and Sarah Steele share their career journeys and the evolution of Yellowtail Financial Planning. Dennis started in direct sales and eventually transitioned to fee-based financial planning. Sarah joined Yellowtail after struggling to find part-time work in the industry. Together, they have transformed the business and focused on client-centric financial planning. They discuss the challenges of transitioning to a fee-based model and the importance of community and collaboration in the industry. They also highlight the impact of COVID-19 on remote client meetings and the need for adaptability in the changing landscape of financial advice. In this conversation, Dennis Hall and Sarah Steele discuss the future of Yellowtail Financial Planning and the challenges they face as they transition to the next generation of practitioners and managers. They emphasise the importance of organic growth, maintaining a mall and defined number of clients, and providing exceptional service. They also discuss the need for an economic model that allows the next generation to take over the business while preserving the legacy and value that has been built. They express their commitment to never selling the business to a consolidator and their desire to continue making a positive impact in the industry.

Nik Marsh, the managing director of Ashlea Financial Planning, shares his journey of transitioning from a career in high finance to financial planning and navigating the process of internal succession planning. He discusses his background, the challenges he faced, and the importance of finding a different way to provide financial advice. The conversation explores the role of Diane Weitz, the founder of Ashlea Financial Planning, and her desire to ensure the continuity of the business and the well-being of her clients. The chapter concludes with the restructuring of the management buyout and the future succession plans for the firm. In this conversation, Nik Marsh discusses the challenges of business transition and the need for a suitable model for financial planners. He shares insights on transitioning to the next generation and the difficulties of seller financing in management buyouts (MBOs). The conversation also covers the use of preferred shares and the importance of setting up the next generation of owners. Nik Marsh talks about the structure and team of Ashlea, as well as the technology stack and CRM challenges faced by the firm. The conversation concludes with a discussion on future plans and success.

Loic Fonteneau, Investment Director at Blackfin, discusses the influx of capital into the financial advice and wealth management space, particularly in the form of venture capital backing technology firms. He shares his background in VC and how he came to join Blackfin. Loic explains the differences between private equity and venture capital, highlighting the focus on majority ownership and control in private equity, while venture capital takes minority stakes and partners with founders. He also discusses the investment strategy of BlackfinTech, the venture capital arm of Blackfin, and why they invested in Timeline. Loic shares his insights on the current state of the venture market and the future of venture investing.

Join Abraham Okusanya as he chats with Pete Matthew, CEO of Jacksons Wealth Management & Financial Planner.

Discover the fascinating history of Jacksons as it celebrates its centenary milestone, and learn how Pete emphasises building a business centred around people. Uncover insights into the power of business as a tool for making a difference and pushing boundaries.

In episode 77, Abraham Okusanya is joined by Samantha Secomb, a chartered financial planner and founder of Women's Wealth.

Don't miss this incredibly insightful episode where Samantha shares her journey and insights into women seeking financial advice. She discusses her innovative business strategy likening financial advice to a gym membership, the importance of certainty, and why women are often more inclined to be highly qualified in their pursuits compared to their counterparts. Tune in for valuable perspectives on navigating financial planning and empowerment.

Tune in as Abraham Okusanya engages in a compelling conversation with Sean McDermott, Director & Chartered Planner at Lightside Financial Planning. Sean's unique journey from DJ to successful Financial Planner unfolds, from his early days at Lloyds TSB to entrepreneurship. Don't miss the insights and inspiration in this episode!

Find out more information on each episode via our website.

Join us for our latest episode on 'Fixing Adviser Tech Integration & Data Aggregation Headaches', where Abraham is joined by Nicky Sevel (Founder of Woven Advice).

In this episode, hosted by Abraham Okusanya, Mary Waring shares her inspiring journey from mortgage adviser to running a solo financial advice practice. Discover why she chose to charge fixed fees, the challenges she faced with regulatory issues, and the importance of specialising in a niche market. Mary also offers valuable insights into the art of financial planning, including the crucial role of understanding client psychology and finding joy in your work. Whether you’re an aspiring financial adviser or a seasoned professional, Mary’s story provides plenty of food for thought on running a successful and fulfilling business. Tune in to learn more!

In this episode, Abraham Okusanya is joined by the guys behind the new business, Finova Money - Scott Millar, Rob Bell & Rob Schwarz. They shed light on their bad introductions to the profession, what made them take the step towards creating their own business and what the first few months since launch have been like.

In our next episode, Abraham is joined by James de Lisle Wells to discuss 'The Joys & Pains of Going Solo'. 🗣️

You'll get insight into frustrated successors, managing the legacy of a business and knowing when it's 'right' to start your own business, as well as hearing what's next for de Lisle Financial Planning.

Join us on an exciting journey in this podcast episode, as Abraham Okusanya delves into Brett Davidson's groundbreaking whitepaper, 'How To Solve The Scale Problem (in financial planning businesses)'.

The duo cover: making an impact, scaling up your business and rewriting the status quo. You won't want to miss it! ✨🚀

Dan Martin, Managing Director of MDM Wealth, joins Abraham for a chat on the dynamics of joining and taking over ownership of a family financial planning business. He also sheds light on how the exit was funded, what the business looks like today and the strength of being a young adviser in today's industry.

In early September 2023, the Timeline leadership team embarked on an inspiring journey to California, attending two significant conferences in the heart of technological innovation: Saastr and FUTUREPROOF.

This experience notonly offered us valuable insights into financial advisory technology trends but also provided a unique opportunity for team bonding. Here's a glimpse of the key takeaways and observations from this transformative trip.

Join Abraham Okusanya for a new episode of Adviser 3.0: The Podcast.

In this episode he is joined by guests, Jacqueline Lockie CFP™ & Philippa Hann, discussing how technology is used to enhance professional connections between Financial Planners and accountants/lawyers. 

Join Abraham Okusanya for a bonus episode on St. James's Place. On Friday 13th October 2023, SJP market shares fell by over 20%,, as well as losing 46% of its market cap over recent months and why it's had no choice but to cut its fees.

In this episode, Abraham Okusanya is joined by Mike LeGassick (Behavioural Investment Coach and Author) for a fascinating episode on financially educating clients.

Mike sheds light on the crucial significance of framing questions adeptly, particularly when broaching complex subjects like the risk ladder and the stock market with clients. Their discussion underscores how the choice of language can significantly impact a client's comprehension, particularly for those with limited prior knowledge. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode that promises valuable insights - tune in now!

Tune in for an episode with Abraham Okusanya and his guest, Paul McCoubrey (Director & Financial Planner of Navigate IFA).

Paul sheds light on what Navigate IFA looks like today and where it all started, the importance of clients understanding the service you deliver and the significance of rationalising success. Don't miss out on this insightful episode!

In this episode, Abraham Okusanya is joined by Karen Ritchie, owner of Karen Ritchie Financial Planning.

In this engaging discussion, Karen shares her inspiring journey from accountant to financial adviser, detailing her training under Rory Percival. She also shares valuable insights on branding, tailored client communication, solo entrepreneurship, and the importance of building a supportive network. Tune in for a condensed masterclass in finance, entrepreneurship, and personal growth that promises to inspire.

In this episode, Jamie Gordon and Emma Barclay, the dynamic duo behind Lynas Vokes Wealth Management, share their journey in financial planning and the growth of their Lincolnshire-based firm. They discuss the critical role of nurturing the next generation of advisers and the importance of continuous improvement. Tune in to learn why investing in education, maintaining independence, and a client-first approach are key to long-term success in financial planning.

Why Listen? Discover how Lynas Vokes is shaping the future of financial planning and get inspired by their vision for growth and innovation—without sacrificing their client-centric values.

Here's the first episode of our podcast under our new name, 'Adviser 3.0: The Podcast'.

Today Abraham is joined by Alex Whitson, Managing Director at VouchedFor, for a brilliant episode. Alex provides insights into his early career and where he started out, to where he is today.

Join Abraham Okusanya for an insightful episode with Lloyd Davies, owner of RockWealth Aberdeen.

Here’s what is covered in the episode:

• 19 years in Financial Services and what that looks like

• Two questions to consider when taking the next step in business

• The entrepreneurial journey and ‘getting permission’

• The power of the press and social media

• What’s next for RockWealth Aberdeen

• The set up of the firm that enables Kevin to focus on being a ‘high-value adviser’ to his clients
• The joys and pains (but mostly joys) of setting up a firm from the scratch 
• Hard lessons on how NOT to do financial planning 
• The productivity battle - boutique vs. larger firms
• Shaping your tech stack
• What's next for Oak Four

This week we are joined by Jonathan Gunby, Chief Executive of Transact, for a fantastic episode on all things tech.

Here’s what is covered in the episode:

• How Jonathan came to join Transact - from CTO to CEO

• Where does Integrafin fit in

• Does Transact really have no competitors?

• Ian Taylor & the legacy he left behind

• Is there a benefit to not being outsourced?

• How will the market evolve in the coming years

As awareness and concerns for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues continue to grow, there has been a significant surge in demand for ESG investing. Financial advisers and investors are increasingly interested in incorporating ESG considerations into their investment strategies. However, the actual impact of ESG investing on the real world is still a subject of debate.

Hosted by Nicki Hinton-Jones CFA, Chief Investment Officer at Timeline, this discussion explores the following key questions:

• Does ESG investing move the needle in the real world and how can we judge its results?

• What data is required to measure the outcomes, and how can it be obtained and analysed effectively? 

• What is really needed from the investment community to drive change?

• What are the opportunities for innovation to improve both investor and real-world outcomes?

Recorded live at Adviser 3.0: Change Agents. We apologise in advance for the poor audio quality but the content is a must-hear for every financial planner.

Are you an ambitious financial planning firm owner/manager with an aspiration to exceed £5m in revenue over the next 5 years? Then, you'll want to hear from our panel of heavyweights - Gaynor Rigby, Tim Horrocks & Alan Smith.

This episode was recorded live at 'Adviser 3.0: Change Agents' in May 2023. The audio quality is poorer compared to previous episodes due to the recording circumstances.

This podcast episode is led by two wildly successful financial planners, Paul Cleworth and Warren Shute, who themselves are walking the walk by creating bigger, better futures for their teams and clients. From client acquisition to marketing and team building, they will let you in on their playbook for creating a million pound solo practice. 

The session is moderated by Timeline’s very own Kate Phillips and provides meaningful discussion and an interactive Q&A to fuel your growth with ideas and practical tips. 

Recorded at Adviser 3.0: Change Agents.

Abraham chats to Jo Little (CEO) and Alfie Mullan at Emery Little, providing insight into leadership, the dynamics of a family business and why retirement is a young person’s game! Make sure to catch this episode.

Join Abraham in a captivating conversation with Andrew and Sarah Elson, owners of Berry & Oak. From their humble beginnings in a bank to running their successful business, they share their journey, discuss the power couple dynamics, team growth, operations, marketing strategies, financial planning, and exciting plans for the future. Tune in for inspiration and valuable insights into the thriving world of Berry & Oak.

Join us on this captivating episode of Retirementals as we have the privilege of hosting Gretchen Betts, a trailblazer in the financial advisory industry. In this inspiring conversation, Gretchen shares her firsthand account of planning, financing, and flawlessly executing a highly successful internal succession at Magenta Financial Planning. Prepare to be captivated by Gretchen's insights, as she takes us through the strategic decisions, financial considerations, and key lessons learned throughout this remarkable journey. Whether you're an aspiring adviser or simply fascinated by stories of triumph, this episode is bound to leave you inspired and equipped with valuable knowledge.

Tune in for an insightful conversation with Neil Cowell, former head of UK distribution at Vanguard, as he shares his experiences of transforming Vanguard UK from a small start-up into a major force in the asset management industry. Neil delves into the evolving role of financial advisers, the critical importance of strong leadership, and why prioritising client needs is more vital than ever. Discover the tools and strategies Neil used to achieve success, and why he values the guidance of trusted advisers. Whether you’re in asset management or simply curious about the industry, this episode offers valuable insights you won’t want to miss.

Abraham chats to the vibrant multi award-winning Warren Shute, covering:

• Where he started out, studying accountancy & early career

• The beginning of Lexington Wealth Management

• How to deliver a congruent service to clients

• The importance of proactive communication

• Why Warren is not looking to sell his business

• The launch of Warren’s new financial planning coaching programme

• ChatGPT, AI & what it can do

• What the future holds for Lexington Wealth

Abraham chats to Julian Gilbert, Founder & Director of Wealth Matters, covering:

• Where he started out, going to Australia & being inspired to be a Financial Adviser

• How Wealth Matters started in 2001

• The figures & staff behind the successful business

• What does Julian put success down to?

• The significance of a Graduate Programme

• The role of women in Financial Services

• What the future holds for Wealth Matters

Abraham chats to Matthew, Director at Vertus Capital, on his journey to date covering:

• How did Vertus Capital get to where it is today?

• Moving his family from South Africa to the UK with no possessions

• The funding journey

• Case Study Scenario: The process of selling a business

• The two steps to every deal

• As a firm owner looking to sell, what should you be alert to right now?

• What the future holds for Vertus Capital

Abraham chats to Dom and Jonathan from Expert Wealth Management about their journey, covering:

• How Jonathan and Dom started out and met
• The start of Expert Wealth Management
• When 3 became 2 & the team behind the success
• The significance of bringing the next generation through
• The challenges of running a business & recruitment
• What happens next…& the question of succession
• The client advisory board - what is it?
• Goals for the future

Abraham chats to the esteemed Catherine Morgan about her journey in financial services, covering:

• How she got into the world of financial planning & coaching
• What does money mean to different people?
• The psychology behind people’s relationships with money
• What is ‘wealth’?
• How life and trauma shape behaviour
• The 5 money types
• Building a brand & finding your ‘why’

In episode 49, Abraham chats to Steve Martin about his journey in financial services, covering:

• Where he started out in the industry
• The moments that defined his career
• Starting Smart Financial, the Training Academy and Smart International
• Bouncing off problems in business
• Learning to understand yourself before understanding others
• His choice to move to Spain and start again
• What Steve would say to his younger self

Abraham joins Peter Ellis from JUST for a special on guaranteed income, here’s what they discuss:

The humble annuities…

• How do they fit into the retirement plan?
• Can you think of them as an asset class?
• Do annuities and investment portfolios mix?
• Product innovation and constructing a product
• Creating more sustainable portfolios
• The alternative asset debate
• Modelling guaranteed income alongside investment assets

Abraham is joined by the enigma that is Nick Lincoln. They have an energetic conversation, covering:

• How Nick started out and set up his business in 2008
• How he fashioned his business to suit the lifestyle he wanted
• What you can learn from other people
• Bonds…is there any point to them?
• The importance of good consumer outcomes
• Is the adviser tech stack as good as it gets?
• Why you should use an MPS
• Plus Nick has a few questions for Abraham…

Abraham is joined by Sarah Lord and Alasdair Walker to discuss what’s going on between the PFS and CII. You’ll gain clear insight into the issue at hand, covering:

• What is going on with the PFS and CII, and the relationship over the past few years?
• The announcement on 21st December 2022 and what that meant
• What led to the CII making this decision
• What is the primary focus of the PFS?
• Does the CII actually have to consider feedback?
• What is the way forward and the key actions which need to be taken?

Ed Moisson, author of The Economics of Fund Management chats to Abraham about his book, covering:

• Where he started out in the industry and his switch to journalism
• What led him to write his book & insight into the topics he covered
• How do mutual funds compare between the US and the UK?
• Do certain ownership models lead to better fund performance?
• What is the real purpose of the investment management industry?

Join us as Guy Skinner, Managing Director of Citygate Financial Planning, reveals his journey into financial planning and the impact of his early experiences with money. He shares his insights on the importance of teaching children about financial literacy, the challenges in connecting with clients, and the evolution of his business philosophy. Guy discusses how building credibility and leveraging referrals have fueled his success, and he emphasises the need for more ambition and disruption in the industry. Tune in to hear about the future of financial planning, the role of education and technology, and Guy’s vision for making a meaningful impact.

Paul Cleworth joins Abraham for an insightful chat on being a business owner and adviser. Here’s what they covered:

• The creation of Tandem Financial and where it is today
• Why relationship building is so important to understand clients
• Can you do it on your own as an adviser?
• Tandem’s approach to marketing and what attracts clients
• What approach should you take to equity investing
• What the future holds for Paul and Tandem Financial

Roderic joins Abraham, as a fountain of wisdom on all things M&A and succession planning. Here’s what they covered:

• Roderic’s career in financial services for over 40 years
• The three options for exiting a business
• Selling a business & the subcategories that come with it
• How to breakdown & establish a realistic succession plan
• Debt vs. equity
• Valuations - what is the market looking like?

Abraham is joined by the reputable Ruth Handcock, having an insightful chat on:

• How she got into financial services
• The setup of Octopus as an organisation and where it all started
• How Octopus are investing to change the world
• The idea behind Seccl
• Advice on advisers looking to exit their business
• The experience for women in financial service and what needs to change
• Parenting in the workplace
• How Ruth thinks about planning and investing for her retirement

Abraham is joined by the formidable Ruth Sturkey discussing all things Financial Services, including:

• Her journey into the industry and financial planning
• The setup and vision behind one of the leading financial firms, The Red House
• The structure of the exit deal for The Red House
• What lead to the merger with Paradigm Norton and the opportunities that emerged from it
• Ruth’s new role at the Institute for Financial Wellbeing and how to get involved
• Why she invested in Timeline and her stance on early-stage investments