Explore every episode of the podcast The Financial Planning Podcast

In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Nick Hawkins, founder of NH Wealth, to talk about leaving the corporate world, starting a financial planning firm from scratch and the power of finding your niche.

Nick shares his journey from investment management into financial planning, why he launched NH Wealth in 2023, and how a desire for more control over his time and family life played a huge part in making the leap into business ownership.

They dive into Nick's decision to specialise in working with lawyers, the common financial challenges faced by high earners, and why getting really clear on who you want to serve can transform your marketing and business development.

Nick also talks openly about the reality of starting a firm with zero clients, learning to market yourself, creating his Lawyers Financial Blueprint, and his ambition to make NH Wealth the go-to financial planning firm for lawyers in the UK.

From niching and lead generation to lifestyle creep, financial education and building a business around the life you want, there are loads of practical lessons in this one for financial planners and owner managers.

In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Nila Mistry, founder of Prosperity Life Planning, for a brilliant conversation about building a financial planning business around the life you actually want to live.

With more than 30 years in financial services, Nila shares how her career has evolved from commission-only roles and standing outside tube stations speaking to potential clients, through to discovering life planning and building a boutique business centred around deeper conversations, connection and giving clients the confidence to make big life decisions.

They explore why great financial planning starts with listening, the importance of giving clients space to think, and how technology, outsourcing and the right support can actually help planners become more human, not less.

Nila also opens up about her own journey as a business owner, creating better processes, taking a full month away from the business for the first time, and redefining what success looks like at this stage of her life.

From life planning and client conversations to freedom, health, retirement and building a business aligned with your values, this is a really energising episode for planners who want to create a business that works for their clients and for them.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Nathan McKerlie, Partnerships Manager at Albemarle Street Partners.

Nathan talks about how Albemarle supports independently minded financial advisers beyond investment management, from marketing and client communications to education and business growth, and why collaboration sits at the heart of its approach.

We also get into the next generation of investors, the intergenerational wealth transfer, and why advisers may need to rethink how they engage younger clients whose attitudes towards investing, technology and risk can look very different from previous generations.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Anna Butcher, Head of Operations at Finova Money.

Anna talks about settling into a new role after 12 years with her previous firm, helping Finova Money grow its team, and why she thrives on building the processes and structure that sit behind a growing business.

We also get into the launch of the Uniquely Wired Network, Anna's work around neurodiversity in financial services, and why creating more neuro-inclusive workplaces and client experiences could make a real difference across the profession.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Conor O'Sullivan, Founder of O'Sullivan Financial Planning.

Conor shares his journey from corporate financial services into building his own firm, how the business has grown from a small lifestyle practice into a growing team, and why his long-term ambition is to build a firm that can serve clients and their families for generations.

We also talk about outsourcing, AI, using technology to remove friction, and why great financial planning should always focus on the client's journey rather than just the products and vehicles around it.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Stephanie Woodward from Poole Townsend.

Stephanie shares her journey back into financial services after time working in the NHS and environmental consultancy, and how those experiences have shaped the way she now approaches leadership, problem-solving and client work.

We also talk about Poole Townsend's move to employee ownership, the challenge of leading people through change, improving processes and compliance, and why getting the foundations right creates more space to focus on what matters most, clients and relationships.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Adrian Denton from Fundment.

Adrian talks about Fundment's growth as a tech-led platform, why owning its own technology helps it move quickly, and how automation, open APIs and better integration can remove friction from financial planning businesses.

We also get into platform efficiency, the challenges of replatforming, the importance of strong adviser support, and why firms should think about their platform as part of their wider business strategy, not just as a standalone piece of tech.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Zoe Howard from Rathbones.

Zoe talks about the role of bespoke investment management, how advisers and investment specialists can work together, and why more complex client needs often benefit from a genuinely tailored approach.

We also get into retirement planning, Rathbones' three-pot approach to decumulation, and the importance of balancing investment strategy with the very human and emotional side of retirement.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Gretchen Betts, MD of Magenta Financial Planning and founder of SheFinance.

Gretchen reflects on 10 years of running Magenta, the role financial education can play in closing the advice gap, and why younger adults in particular need better access to useful, practical conversations about money.

We also talk about the importance of team culture, embracing change, and why in a world increasingly shaped by tech, AI and hybrid working, financial planning businesses still need to protect the human connection at the heart of what they do.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Ryan Edwards from Foster Denovo.

Ryan shares his journey from apprenticeship and administration into financial planning, and why he believes technical knowledge is only part of what makes a great adviser, the real value comes from understanding people, their goals and the decisions that matter most to them.

We also talk about the role of cashflow planning, building a high-touch client service, finding your niche, and what it's like growing a career in advice as part of the next generation entering the profession.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Becky Adams and Emma Bird, Directors and Financial Planners at Hansford Bell.

Becky and Emma talk about running the firm as part of a five-person leadership team, balancing client work with growing the business, and why having the right people and culture matters just as much as growth itself.

We also get into their ambition to champion financial planning in the South West, bringing firms together through initiatives like Edge Southwest, and the importance of collaboration across the profession.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Nick Green from Criterion.

Nick explains the work Criterion does behind the scenes to help financial services firms connect systems, share data more effectively and reduce friction across the advice journey.

We also talk about why interoperability matters, what financial planners should be asking technology providers, and how avoiding vendor lock-in can help firms stay flexible as their tech stack evolves.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Oliver Secomb from Pentins Financial Planners.

Oliver shares his journey from administrator to adviser and now managing director, including the transition of leadership from his mum and the challenge of stepping into a bigger role while staying true to his own personality and approach.

We also talk about delegation, building clear processes as a team grows, embracing AI and technology, and Oliver's ambition to create a business that "runs on rails" while continuing to improve the experience for clients.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Richard Fletcher and Jackie Hickson, founders of Fletcher Hickson Legal Services.

Richard and Jackie share how their combined financial services and legal experience led them to launch their own specialist law firm, and why understanding the realities of the profession gives them a different perspective when supporting advisers and firms.

We also get into some of the legal issues business owners often overlook, from shareholder agreements and what happens when relationships change, to self-employed adviser contracts, restrictive covenants and the importance of getting things right before a dispute arises.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Duncan Butler-Wheelhouse, Founder of Hoe Bridge Wealth.

Duncan shares his journey from accountancy and education into financial planning, and the lessons he's learned from building his own firm, from knowing who you work best with to being comfortable saying no to the wrong-fit clients.

We also talk about industry uncertainty, the frustrations of legacy providers, and why Duncan is focused on building a business that works for his clients and gives him the freedom to enjoy life outside of work.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Jas Nattrass, Events & Partnerships Lead at Verve.

Jas takes us behind the scenes of Transformation, from growing the event from fewer than 100 delegates to more than 500, to the feedback, planning and constant evolution that goes into making each year better than the last.

We also talk about shaking up the traditional financial services conference, the importance of creating genuinely useful events and partnerships, and why sometimes bigger isn't always better.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Freddie Winter, Founder of Gratitude Financial Planning.

Freddie talks about building his firm from scratch, balancing business growth with family life, and the challenge of creating enough space to work on the business rather than always being in it.

We also get into the opportunities around inheritance tax planning, how AI could reshape financial advice, and why human connection, judgement and helping clients through big life decisions will continue to set great advisers apart.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Marnel Stafford.

Marnel's route into financial planning has been anything but conventional. After a career in hospitality in South Africa, she discovered finance later in life, moved to the UK, requalified and became a financial adviser at 50, building her client base from the ground up.

We talk about putting people at the heart of financial advice, why Marnell believes the money follows when you focus on genuinely helping clients, and how building the right team has allowed her to concentrate on what she does best: spending time with people.

Marnell also shares one of the biggest changes she's made in her business letting go of control and delegating everything from administration to managing her diary and how that shift has helped her scale while still giving clients the attention they need.

We also get into the changing role of the financial adviser in an AI-enabled world, why understanding a client's life, family and relationship with money matters far more than simply choosing products, and the business lesson Marnell thinks more advisers need to embrace: stop trying to do everything yourself.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Tony Pound, Founder of Journey Happy Financial Planning.

Tony shares his journey from more than 35 years in financial services to taking the leap into self-employment, just one month before lockdown and eventually building the boutique financial planning business he had pictured for years.
We talk about finding clarity on who you really want to work with, learning to say no to the wrong-fit clients and deciding what success actually looks like for your own business, rather than simply chasing growth for growth's sake.

Tony also opens up about the shift from adviser to business owner, the question of what comes next once you've built the business you originally set out to create, and why not every financial planning firm needs to become bigger.

Plus, we discuss the isolation that can come with self-employment, the value of having the right people around you and Tony's advice for anyone currently wondering whether to make the leap themselves.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Next up on Podcast on Tour from Verve Transformation 2026, we're joined by Cathi Harrison, Founder & CEO of Verve.

Recorded live at the event, Cathi talks about the journey behind Verve, how the business has evolved, and why so much of her focus is now on helping financial planning firms operate better, scale more effectively and make finance more accessible.

We also get into Verve's Careers in Finance platform and the work being done to bring new talent into the profession, as well as the role AI can play in making services more efficient and reducing costs for firms and clients.

Cathi also shares what she'd change in the profession if she had a magic wand, why business owners need to spend more time thinking about the business itself, not just the advice, and what makes Verve Transformation such an important day in the calendar.

A quick-fire conversation covering growth, talent, technology, accessibility and the future of financial planning.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

We're back on tour.

To kick off our Podcast on Tour series from Verve Transformation 2026, The Financial Planning Club co-founders sit down together for a proper catch-up on all things Club.

Recorded live from the event, they talk about what's coming up over the next few months, the role the Club plays for owner-managers, why accountability and community matter so much, and how they're continuing to evolve the support available to financial planning firms.

They also get into upcoming Club events, future plans, Insights Discovery, Experience the Club, and what 2027 is starting to look like, with the usual mix of practical business chat, honest reflections and a fair amount of duck-related chaos along the way.

It's a relaxed first episode to set the scene for the series, before we hand the mic over to more guests recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

🎙️ Recorded live at Verve Transformation 2026.

Simplifying Financial Advice: Tech, Time & the Future of Planning with Nick Ryan & Hayley Rabbets

Nick Ryan and Hayley Rabbets join Lewis on The Financial Planning Club Podcast to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing advice firms today, complexity.

They discuss why so many firms are still losing time to clunky processes, duplicated systems and overcomplicated tech stacks, and why adding another bit of software often isn't the answer.

Nick and Hayley share the thinking behind Pilot, the importance of starting with your process before choosing technology, and how better systems can create more capacity for advisers to spend time where it actually matters, with clients.

They also get into AI, operational efficiency, the advice gap and why sometimes the biggest improvement comes from stripping things back rather than adding more.

If you're looking at your processes, tech stack or capacity inside your advice business, this one is well worth a listen.

Two Years of Growth, Leadership & Getting Out of the Way

Lee Waters is back on The Financial Planning Club Podcast, two years after his first appearance.

This time, we revisit the journey and look at what's changed inside Barwells Wealth, from leadership and delegation to operational efficiency, team culture and creating a business that isn't completely reliant on the owner.

Lee shares practical lessons on removing yourself as the bottleneck, improving processes, creating more capacity and using technology with purpose.

We also discuss the future of financial planning, the role of AI and why the human side of advice is only becoming more important.

If you're an owner manager looking to build a better, more scalable advice business, there are plenty of useful takeaways in this one.

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Harry Thiel joins Lewis Byford on The Financial Planning Podcast to share the reality of building Wealthwave Financial from the ground up.

From buying a client bank and moving into a new office, to balancing family life, long hours and the pressure of growing a business, Harry opens up about the highs and challenges of becoming an owner-manager in financial planning.

Lewis and Harry discuss delegation, imposter syndrome, succession opportunities, work-life balance, building a modern advice business and why community matters when you're trying to grow something meaningful.

If you're a financial planner, adviser or business owner trying to build a firm that works for both your clients and your family, this episode will resonate.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis Byford sits down with Rebecca Aldridge, Managing Director of Balance Wealth Planning.

Rebecca shares how she built her firm from the ground up with no clients, no shortcuts, and a clear vision of doing things differently.

They dive into what it really takes to build a scalable financial planning business, from putting the right operational framework in place early, to creating a culture where people can grow, take ownership and genuinely enjoy their work.

Rebecca also breaks down her approach to fixed fees, why transparency matters more than ever, and how many firms are still getting it wrong when it comes to aligning value with what clients actually need.

This is a conversation about building a business with intention, not just as a financial planner, but as a business owner.

If you're an owner manager looking to step back, scale up and build something that runs properly, this episode is packed with practical insight.

Listen to the full episode to hear how Rebecca built Balance and what you can take into your own firm.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Club Podcast, Lewis sits down with Claudia Clark from Saturn to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing advice firms right now… operational efficiency.

Claudia brings a fresh perspective from both discretionary fund management and the fast-moving AI and tech space, working closely with over 700 advice firms to understand what's really slowing them down.

This isn't a conversation about chasing shiny new tech. It's about getting clear on your process, fixing the real bottlenecks, and using technology properly to enhance both your business and your client experience.

Lewis and Claudia dive into what's actually happening inside advice firms day-to-day, where most are getting stuck, and how small changes can unlock serious capacity.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Jonathan Newell, CEO and co-founder of BareRock, for a practical conversation about PI, risk and what good support should actually look like for financial planning firms.

Jonathan shares the story behind BareRock, the frustrations that led to its creation, and why too many quality firms are still being treated like everyone else when it comes to PI. They also get into complaints handling, policy wording, risk management, why PI should be seen as a strategic asset, and what firms need to understand before simply renewing year after year.

 This is a valuable episode for owner managers who want to build stronger, more resilient businesses and think more carefully about the support sitting behind them.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Marina Herbert from Herbert & Webster for a refreshingly honest conversation about the role operations plays in building a strong financial planning business.

Marina shares her journey into the profession, how Herbert & Webster grew from the early days, and why they have been so deliberate about building the firm around values, process, client experience and the right external support.

They get into outsourcing, systems, operational leadership, business growth, and the reality of making strategic decisions when you do not always know the answer straight away.

A must-listen for owner managers who want to strengthen what is happening behind the scenes, not just what clients see at the front end.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Vanessa Barnes for a brilliant conversation on how financial planning has changed over the last 40 years and where the profession still needs to improve.

Vanessa shares her perspective on the shift from a sales-led industry to a true profession, why rapport, communication and client understanding still matter so much, and how planners can better support people through major life stages. They also talk about women's wealth, the pension gender gap, vulnerability, AI, and how owner managers can build firms around the life they actually want.

This is a practical and thought-provoking episode for advisers and business owners who care about better conversations, better client outcomes and the long-term future of financial planning.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Chris Palmer, Managing Director of Hansford Bell, for a brilliant conversation about leadership, growth and what it really takes to build a strong advice business.

Chris shares his journey from the Royal Navy into financial services, the lessons that shaped his leadership style, and how Hansford Bell has built a collaborative culture with a clear sense of direction. They also get into the realities of recruitment, creating progression for good people, moving fully into financial planning, and why the firm introduced a four-day week.

This is a practical episode for owner managers who want to build a business with better systems, stronger people and a clearer plan for growth.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Debbie Brant, Managing Director of Bigmore Associates.

Debbie shares her 25-year journey in financial services, from starting out as a junior paraplanner to now leading a growing multi-service firm with a strong people-first culture.

They discuss career progression, apprenticeships, leadership, values-led recruitment, and why building from within has been such a powerful part of Bigmore's growth. Debbie also reflects on confidence, imposter feelings, succession planning, and the role coaching and external support can play in helping both firms and individuals grow.

It's an honest, insightful conversation about building a business where people want to stay, develop and thrive.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Matt Campbell, founder of Stadium Wealth and a member of the Financial Planning Club.

After more than a decade working in banking, Matt made the leap into financial advice before eventually launching his own firm,  building a business designed around flexibility, purpose and the clients he wants to serve.

They discuss the realities of starting an advice firm, building resilience as a business owner, and why creating an inclusive environment for clients, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, can make financial advice more accessible.

A must-listen for advisers thinking about starting their own firm, or building a business that truly fits their life.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Max Sullivan, Chartered Financial Adviser and founder of Archgate Wealth.

After a life-changing medical setback in his teens redirected him away from a planned army career, Max built a career in financial services, achieving Chartered status and eventually turning down a leadership role at HSBC to launch his own independent firm.

Max shares the realities of building from scratch: managing shiny tech distractions, protecting "commercial time," choosing aligned partnerships like Aspen, and designing a business around independence and flexibility.

 A grounded and honest conversation about resilience, ownership, and building a firm that reflects who you actually are.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Taylor Beavis, founder of Universe Financial Advice, a deliberately small, boutique firm built around lifestyle, freedom, and intentional growth.

From emailing Pete Matthew before he'd even become an adviser, to adopting his son mid-business journey, Taylor shares the mindset shifts that shaped his career, including his powerful question:

"What would you do if you were 10 times bolder?"

They explore direct authorisation, keeping a firm intentionally small, setting boundaries, transitioning clients respectfully, and building a business that works for your life, not the other way around.

A thoughtful and refreshingly honest conversation for advisers who want clarity over scale.

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In this episode, Lewis sits down with Justin King, Chartered & Certified Financial Planner, Registered Life Planner and founder of MFP Wealth Management.

Justin shares his remarkable personal story: from a youth training scheme at 16 to building a life-centred financial planning firm. He reflects on lessons from early struggles, what truly makes a fulfilling life, and how life planning gave him the framework to help clients get clarity and direction.

One for both new entrants and experienced planners alike.

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In this episode, Lewis sits down with Frazer Cronin, Head of Operations at First Wealth, to explore what it really takes to build a modern financial planning firm from the inside out.

Frazer shares his journey from career-changer to Head of Operations in under six years and how curiosity, skill development, and strong culture shaped that path.

They discuss scaling without losing client focus, embedding technology intelligently, attracting new talent into the profession, and why great financial planning businesses are built on systems, not just advisers.

 A powerful episode for firm owners, operations leaders, and anyone looking to future-proof their financial planning business.

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In this episode, Lewis speaks with Tim Horrocks, founder and CEO of RockWealth, about building a client-first, evidence-led financial planning business and how his partnership with Albion Strategic has supported that mission.

Tim shares the journey from starting RockWealth to building a national presence, the mindset shifts it took to scale without sacrificing quality, and why structure, delegation, and collaboration are key to success as a business owner.

A must-listen for financial planners, business owners, and future firm builders.

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In this episode, Lewis sits down with Amy Goodall-Smith, founder of Goodall-Smith Wealth Management, to explore what it really means to build a values-led financial planning firm.

Amy shares how she left a big national to create a more human, empathetic, and purpose-driven experience for clients, one where people always come before profit.

From aligning personal values with business strategy, to supporting clients through life's messiest transitions with grace and clarity, this conversation is a masterclass in intentional leadership.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis is joined by Tom Hegarty, CEO of SimplyBiz and Chair of the New Talent Alliance, for a warm, insightful conversation about building a more sustainable, impactful advice profession.

Tom reflects on his 30-year journey across advice, education and leadership and the mindset shifts that have helped him evolve along the way. From tackling imposter syndrome to embracing the power of apprenticeships, this is a masterclass in how small changes can lead to meaningful, long-term impact.

Whether you're an established adviser or just starting your career, Tom's lessons on people, purpose and legacy are ones we can all learn from.

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In this episode of the Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Wes Wilks, CEO of Iron Market Wealth and Fint Invest, for a rich and inspiring conversation about building a truly client-led financial advice business. Wes shares how he went from being made redundant to founding one of the UK's most innovative firms, how he manages work-life balance as a father of three, and his vision for revolutionising financial literacy for Gen Z through technology.

Whether you're a financial planner, business owner or just someone looking for inspiration on purpose-led leadership, this episode is packed with practical takeaways, candid insights and real emotion.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis is joined by Susie Hill, a seasoned financial planner whose journey spans RAF service, direct sales, RDR reinvention, and today, a tech-savvy solo practice with a powerful niche.

Susie shares what it takes to build a business from scratch, not once, but multiple times, and why planning isn't just something she does for clients, but something that drives her own direction too.

From riding the Cresta Run at 65mph to becoming a champion for female clients and early adopter of AI tools like Nexus, Susie's story is one of independence, intentionality, and insight.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis is joined by Pete Matthew, Chartered Financial Planner, author, and the creator of Meaningful Money, to explore what really separates great planners from good ones.

With a career spanning more than 25 years, Pete shares the values, systems, and mindset shifts that keep financial planners fulfilled for the long term and why it all comes back to knowing your client.

They dive into everything from process and positioning to podcasts and purpose, a wide-ranging, energising conversation.

One of the frameworks discussed in this episode is Traction by Gino Wickman, a must-read for any firm owner looking to gain clarity and scale with intention.

If you've ever wondered how to stay motivated and build a practice you're truly proud of, this one's for you.

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In this episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Alex Crowther from Timeline, one of the fastest-growing DFMs in the UK and a valued collaborator of the Financial Planning Club.

Alex shares her journey from psychology student to financial adviser to joining the investment strategy team at Timeline, where she helps build and communicate their evidence-based investment approach.

From rebalancing nightmares and regulatory headaches to saving time and scaling smart, this episode breaks down how the right tech + investment strategy can help firms grow without the overwhelm.

Alex also lifts the lid on what makes the Timeline culture so unique, why the team is obsessed with solving real problems (not hypothetical ones), and why she always brings up bruises when talking about netball. Yes, really.

If you're thinking about your CIP, your tech stack, or how to work smarter, this one's for you.

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In this episode, Lewis is joined by Ben Edwards, Director and Senior Investment Analyst at Albion Strategic Consulting to discuss the power of investment partnerships, simplifying complexity, and building scalable advice firms.

They dive into the realities of wearing too many hats, the benefits of outsourcing to trusted partners, and why clarity and confidence in your investment approach are key to scaling with control.

From "Innovation Fridays" to the importance of values, this episode is packed with insight for firm owners who want to grow without losing what matters most.

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In this episode, Lewis is joined by Chris Hindle and James Mackey, co-founders of Frazer James, for a candid and inspiring conversation about building a modern, values-led advice business.

From bad dinners and good ideas to clear vision and even clearer communication, Chris and James share how they built a 100% remote firm that's now managing over £100m in assets. They talk openly about the reality of partnership, why defining roles early matters, and how tools like Traction helped them turn chaos into clarity.

They also discuss the small but powerful routines that keep their team connected, including a weekly motivational check-in that helps maintain focus, accountability, and morale across a fully remote business.

This episode is packed with insight for anyone growing a financial planning firm, from startup founders to seasoned business owners looking to scale sustainably.

If you believe great businesses start with great partnerships, this one's for you.

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In this episode, Lewis is joined by Dennis Harhalakis, Certified Money Coach, trainer, and founder of Cambridge Money Coaching, for a powerful conversation on the emotional side of financial advice.

With over 30 years of experience in financial services, Dennis now helps professionals and clients understand the deep-rooted beliefs that drive money behaviour. From childhood messaging to emotional blocks, Dennis reveals why even the most experienced advisors can struggle to connect with clients on a deeper level and what to do about it.

They explore how money coaching builds better conversations, strengthens relationships, and helps advisors finally feel confident asking for fees, guiding transitions, and supporting real change.

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In this episode, Lewis is joined by Mark Livingston, COO at Aspen, for a practical, honest conversation about the real operational challenges advice firms face when trying to grow and how the right investment partnership can help solve them.

Mark shares his journey from asset management to the boardroom, how his process-first mindset shaped Aspen's offering, and why planners deserve more from their CIP providers.

From scalable investment solutions to standout service, this is a deep dive into what great collaboration really looks like in 2025.

If you're building a more efficient, client-focused advice business, this one's for you.

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From pulling pints in a Working Men's Club to leading distribution at one of the fastest-growing platforms in financial services, Laurie Jacques' journey is packed with grit, perspective, and hard-earned lessons. In this episode, Laurie shares how he got his start, the leadership principles that have shaped his career, and why visibility and communication matter most especially when things go wrong.

We talk about scaling Fundment from a team of 8 to over 60, the role of influencers in early growth, and how tech can and should replace complexity, not just digitise it. Laurie also shares sharp advice for both new and established advice firms: be honest, enjoy what you do, and stop settling for legacy systems just because they're familiar.

A refreshingly grounded take on leadership, culture, and the future of platforms.

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Nila Mistry's journey into financial planning began in 1992, driven by instinct, resilience, and a desire to defy expectations. In this open and powerful conversation, Nila reflects on a career that's included working for Barclays Life, founding two businesses, navigating personal loss, and ultimately rediscovering her purpose through life planning.

She shares what it really means to build a business around your life, why deep listening is the cornerstone of good financial planning, and how growth often begins with learning to ask for help. From family and mindset to tech stacks and trusting your intuition, this is a heartfelt and inspiring story of rebuilding and rising with clarity and courage.

For anyone rethinking success or navigating growth, this one is not to be missed.

Connect with Lee Old

Connect with Nila Mistry

In this episode, Lewis is joined by David Scholes, Director of Wealth Sales at FE FundInfo, for an in-depth conversation about the tech that's powering better advice.

David shares his journey from help desk to director, reflects on nearly two decades in the industry, and gets honest about what's broken in today's advice tech stacks, from data fragmentation to poor integrations.

They also explore how FE FundInfo helps bridge the gap between fund managers, platforms, and advisors, simplifying complexity through clean data, powerful cashflow tools, and real-time insights.

If you're feeling the strain of compliance, admin, and disjointed systems, this one is for you.

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Connect with David Scholes

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