PODCAST · business
My Risk Adviser
by Phil Thompson
My Risk Adviser is a podcast for Australian financial advisers hosted by Phil Thompson, bringing together industry leaders and experts to help excel you on your professional journey. Join the My Risk Adviser facebook group for all advisers who want to learn more and connect with like minded people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
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Why New Zealand Advisers Envy (and Pity) the Australian System
19 years in advice, three business names, one industry that never really lets go of him. Matt Page from Sprout Financial Services sat down with us straight off the plane from Melbourne and we went deep into the stuff advisers actually talk about when the cameras aren't rolling. ACC and how it...
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AFL Concussions and the TPD Fine Print
Zurich has knocked back TPD claims from three AFL players whose careers were ended by concussion, and the footy media is up in arms about it. We get why it looks bad. But these policies pay out on an activities of daily living definition, and it's hard to argue you can't read, write or…
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Is Zurich Actually Cheating? The iExtend Drama Every Risk Adviser Needs to Hear
Every week, Phil and Trent dig into the My Risk Adviser Facebook group to pull out the most interesting questions and debates from real risk advisers dealing with real problems. This week the iExtend and Zurich conversation is front and centre, and it is a lot more layered than the noise…
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Zurich Pricing Shenanigans
Zurich’s pricing changes are being framed as aggressive, but from an actuarial lens, they’re a response to worsening pool dynamics. Duration-based discounting pulls forward profitability, while lapse-supported pricing assumptions break down when persistency improves among higher-risk cohorts. The...
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Rethinking CPD for Financial Advisers
Most advisers aren’t short on CPD. They’re just not capturing what’s already happening. We’ve all seen the cycle. End of year hits, Kaplan gets opened, and hours get ticked off quickly just to get it done. The requirement gets met, but it rarely reflects how advisors are actually improving day to...
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Clearview Sold to Zurich for $415M - What It Means for Advisers & Clients
The insurance industry's worst-kept secret is finally out. Clearview has been sold to Zurich for $415 million. In this episode, Trent and Phil break down the deal, what it means for existing policyholders, and speculate on what Zurich might do with the Clearview brand next. But before the...
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Insights from Marc Fabris on Innovation in Advisory Services
Most advisers say they want innovation. Fewer actually sit down and map where their time is bleeding. Marc Fabris has worked across advice, corporate, digital strategy and now as founder of Risk Hub and Life Insurance Guide. He has seen where the friction lives. This conversation is not about…
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TPD is getting a reset, and advisers need to notice
TPD was built for “total” and “permanent”, but the market drifted into grey areas. More subjectivity. More debate. More claims that, in hindsight, never really matched what the words were supposed to mean. We sat down with Gerard Kerr, Chief Executive, Individual Business at Acenda, to talk about...
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Neha’s Professional Year
In this episode of My Risk Adviser, Trent is joined by Neha to unpack what the first quarter of the Professional Year really looks like. Not the glossy version. The real one. They cover: What the Professional Year actually is, and why it exists Why starting your PY later can sometimes be the...
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Durational Discounting
A cheap premium in year one can feel like a win. Until you look a few years down the track and realise the price has quietly crept up. Durational discounting has changed how life insurance is priced, recommended and kept in force. Big upfront discounts make policies easy to sell, but they also...
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Talking all things underwriting with Gabi Varnier from PPS Mutual
In this episode of My Risk Adviser, Phil Thompson and Trent Bacon sit down with Gabi Varnier, National Underwriting Manager at PPS Mutual, to lift the lid on how underwriting decisions are really made. They explore why underwriting is not about saying no, but about finding a way to offer cover…
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What’s Really Happening in the Risk Advice Market
In this episode of My Risk Adviser, Phil Thompson and Trent Bacon dig into what is actually happening in the insurance advice market, and why risk advice is becoming more specialised than ever. With fewer advisers writing the majority of new insurance business, increasing product complexity,...
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Exploring the future of financial advice with Phil & Trent
Join Phil Thompson and Trent Bacon as they relaunch the "My Risk Adviser" podcast, diving into the world of financial advising. This episode explores adviser journeys, industry trends, and the future of advice. Whether you're a seasoned adviser or just starting out, gain insights from industry...
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My Risk Adviser With Paul Milbourne
We’re kicking off Season 5 with Paul Milbourne, tackling the pitfalls of group insurance tenders and why they often fall short of delivering real value. Paul shares his expert insights on: ✅ How tender fatigue is eroding insurer accountability ✅ The misalignment between price and value in...
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Sue Viskovic on how better processes can boost EBIT and client satisfaction
Sue Viskovic dives deep into the operational backbone of successful advice firms and shares how defined processes aren’t just about compliance—they’re key to scalable, high-quality service. In our conversation, Sue discusses the findings from the Advice Operations Research Report, revealing how...
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Kylie Denton on leading multi-generational advice with understanding and empathy
Kylie Denton has spent 34 years in the financial services industry, and her insights on leadership and emotional intelligence are transforming how advisers connect with clients. From working in underwriting and claims management to developing a structured, emotionally intelligent framework for...
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The life insurance conversation advisers need to have – with Peter Stathis
Peter Stathis, aka The Life Insurance Guy, is on a mission to tackle the gap in financial advice around life insurance. His focus? Helping advisers and clients understand that financial protection isn’t just an afterthought—it’s the backbone of any solid financial plan. As Peter puts it, “It’s…
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Nathan Fradley on specialist advice for divorce, aged care, and estate challenges
Join us for an eye-opening episode featuring Nathan Fradley, a multi-award-winning independent specialist adviser at Nathan Fradley Specialist Financial Advice, known for his mastery in guiding clients through emotionally and technically complex situations. From divorce and aged care to estate...
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Deline Jacovides on starting a thriving business through smart processes
When Deline Jacovides, Founder & Financial Planner at Mazi Wealth, started her business, she knew that success required more than just hard work—it needed smart processes. In this episode, Deline takes us behind the scenes of how she left a steady corporate job to pursue her dream of...
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Ashleigh Campbell’s leap from accounting to financial advice
Ashleigh Campbell shares her story of transitioning from accounting to financial advice, driven by a passion to work with people, not just numbers. From discovering financial advice through podcasts to reaching out to industry professionals on LinkedIn, Ashleigh’s journey shows the power of...
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Mastering growth in financial advice with David Haintz on M&A and scaling your firm
In this episode, we explore key strategies with David Haintz, partner at Merchant Australia, on mastering growth in the financial advice industry. From understanding the importance of M&A in today’s market to leveraging the Rule of 40 for business success, David shares his decades of experience....
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Finding the right fit in financial advice with Laura Kelly
In our latest episode, we chat with Laura Kelly, a financial adviser who’s navigated her career from big banks to boutique firms. Laura shares her key takeaways on how culture, values, and the ability to wear many hats can shape your career. We discuss why she believes small businesses offer...
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Turning financial advice into viral TikTok content
In this episode, we chat with James Wrigley, a financial adviser who’s taken an unconventional path to success by turning financial advice into viral TikTok content. James takes us through his fascinating journey from traditional advisory roles to becoming a digital content creator with a massive...
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The challenges of starting an insurance business
In this episode, we chat with Scott Reid, the managing director and insurance adviser at Abbotts Personal Insurance. Scott takes us on his fascinating journey from being a bank adviser to launching his own insurance business. Learn how Scott’s background in corporate banking shaped his approach…
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How Willed is making estate planning easier than ever
In this episode, we dive into the innovative world of online wills with Aaron Zelman, co-founder of Willed and award winner of the IFA Risk Adviser of the Year. Aaron shares his journey from a passionate life insurance adviser to a tech entrepreneur, driven by the need to simplify end-of-life...
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Why outsourcing insurance claims to experts is worth it
In this episode, Bruno Muraca, CEO of AFRM Claims Advocacy, discusses the complexities of managing insurance claims and the dual purpose of AFRM. They alleviate financial stress for clients while saving time and money for advisers. Bruno highlights the impact of reinsurers and the complexity of...
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Balancing multiple businesses and a case study on effective succession planning
Discover how Patricia Garcia, Director of Your Vision Financial Solutions, Co-Founder of Integrated Finance, and Director of FAAA, masterfully manages three different companies. Learn about her journey from biotechnology to finance, and how she balances the demands of multiple businesses while...
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Winning team and rebranding for growth
Growing a financial advisory business can be tough. But John Cachia, Founder and CEO of Thriving Wealth (formerly known as AFA Group Wealth), shares his secrets to success in this episode. He reveals the mindset shift that tripled his profits, and why building a talented and empowered team is...
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Unpacking risk insurance secrets
Join us for a relaxed chat with Rob Vitnell, Managing Director of AFRM, as he shares his journey from a commerce student to a leader in risk insurance. In this podcast, Rob delves into how specialising in risk transformed his career and enhanced client support during crucial times. Discover the...
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Life insurance in a new era
In this episode, Ben Donald, Managing Director at Austbrokers Life, shares his passion for the industry and how he's seen it evolve, especially post-Covid. Ben's journey from a humble start in a one-man band financial practice to mastering life insurance specialisation provides a unique…
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Simplifying money management for all
Meet Jess, turning the financial industry on its head by making finance fun and accessible. From corporate high-flyer to financial educator, Jessica's programs are designed to empower you with the knowledge to make savvy financial decisions. Join her as she breaks down complex money matters into...
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A career from hospitality to finance
Join us on this episode as Bradley Gecelter, a partner at Priority Life, shares his unique journey from working in hospitality to becoming a financial planning expert. Discover the pivotal moments, mentorship, and the crucial decision-making that propelled him into the world of finance. Tune in…
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From army officer to finance guru
Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Ben Herzog, where he shares his fascinating transition from a commissioned army officer to a financial advising expert. Dive into the stories behind the inception of Blue Ocean Wealth Management, the challenges of reshaping a business model, and the...
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Work-life harmony: insights from a MWL financial expert
In this episode, listeners get a unique glimpse into Tyson Holmes' journey from being a promising soccer player in Melbourne to a skilled financial adviser and insurance specialist at MWL Financial Group. Tyson balances a high-demand career with personal life. His insightful anecdotes and…
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Easy-insurance insights with life tech assist's resource centre
With over 35 years of experience in the life insurance industry, David Spiteri has always found immense satisfaction in collaborating with financial advisers, offering them unparalleled technical support on life insurance matters. Dive deep into the "Life Tech Assist Resource Centre" - a treasure...
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Insurance advice in the digital age
Welcome back for another season of My Risk Adviser! In this episode, Phil chats with Marc Fabris, the trailblazing mind behind Risk Hub. Listen in as Marc gives us the lowdown on the advancement of insurance advice through digital software. Plus, get the scoop on his journey from Australia to...
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A chat with industry veteran, Guy Mankey
Guy Mankey has been in risk advice for 43 years - wow! Guy shares about his journey in the industry and his personal philosophies around giving insurance advice. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook community for Australian advisers. My Risk Adviser is produced by SYMO interactive. Hosted on Acast....
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How to get endorsements not referrals
What's more powerful than a referral? A shining endorsement! Phil chats with business success coach Steve Salvia from Blackwing Consulting about making friends in business who trust you enough to recommend you to their network. Steve walks through an adviser-accountant relationship as an example....
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18 months into a new business
After many years in financial planning, Anthony Campbell took the plunge to become self employed and start Business Risk Solutions, an insurance-only advice practice. Anthony chats about what the transition has been like and how the business journey is going 18 months on. Join the My Risk Adviser...
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4 years into founding Everest Wealth
Alex Luck & Scott Taylor co-founded their advice practice Everest Wealth a little over 4 years ago. Before this, Scott was working as a BDM for insurance companies and super funds while Alex was employed as an adviser. They chat with Phil about how and why they got started, how the business is...
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Income protection 12 months on and the quality of advice review
Shaun Clements from NOR Financial returns to the show! Phil and Shaun chat about the last 12 months for risk advice, particularly the changes to income protection and the quality of advice review. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook community for Australian advisers. My Risk Adviser is produced by...
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Building healthy and high performing teams
If you want to drive growth in your practice, be intentional about designing your employee experience not just your client experience. HR consultant Shelley Johnson from Boldside Consulting chats with Phil about some steps that business owners can take to build a healthy team that kicks goals.…
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How Super Fierce is making advice more affordable for Australians
The team at Super Fierce are on a mission to empower women financially and they're starting with super. They're helping Aussies easily compare and switch to lower cost super funds, potentially saving them thousands. Phil chats with Trenna Probert and Gemma Mitchell about how the platform works,...
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How to attract and retain new graduates
Growing your team? Alisdair Barr from Striver unpacks the current landscape for grad recruitment in financial services and things that businesses can do to attract and keep great talent. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook community for Australian advisers. My Risk Adviser is produced by SYMO...
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What is a money coach and how can advisers partner with them
After spending a decade as a financial adviser, Lexi Smith started MoneyVine to help people get on top of their finances as a money coach. Phil and Lexi chat about how a coach differs from an adviser or financial counsellor and Lexi shares the powerful reason that led her to make the switch from...
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How to protect our clients data
Welcome back for another season of My Risk Adviser! In today's episode Fraser Jack from The Cyber Collective shares some key safety measures that financial professionals can implement to safeguard sensitive client data and reduce the risk of being hacked. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook…
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How to attract new clients
Does your practice have an effective strategy to bring in new clients? Mel Ware, Head of Marketing & Brand at Zurich and OnePath breaks down the steps for setting up a marketing plan to attract your ideal client. Check out the extra resources below: https://www.onepathclarity.com.au/engage...
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Fixing life insurance with technology
LifeBid is a technology solution working to make life insurance more efficient and profitable for advisers and insurers while enabling Australians to better access quality advice and cover. Phil chats with LifeBid founder, Brett Wright. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook community for Australian...
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How to nail your role in client services
Marie Bailey is the head of Client Services at Skye Wealth and has worked in numerous financial services support roles over the years. Phil and Marie chat about the value of support staff within advice practices, and how advisers and CSOs can get the most out of each other to better serve their...
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15 years as a BDM to a small advice practice
After many years working as a BDM in the corporate finance industry, Blair Jamieson joined a small business advice firm and shares about the experience in today's episode. Join the My Risk Adviser Facebook community for Australian advisers. My Risk Adviser is produced by SYMO interactive. Hosted…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
My Risk Adviser is a podcast for Australian financial advisers hosted by Phil Thompson, bringing together industry leaders and experts to help excel you on your professional journey. Join the My Risk Adviser facebook group for all advisers who want to learn more and connect with like minded people.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
HOSTED BY
Phil Thompson
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does My Risk Adviser have?
My Risk Adviser currently has 89 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is My Risk Adviser about?
My Risk Adviser is a podcast for Australian financial advisers hosted by Phil Thompson, bringing together industry leaders and experts to help excel you on your professional journey. Join the My Risk Adviser facebook group for all advisers who want to learn more and connect with like minded people....
How often does My Risk Adviser release new episodes?
My Risk Adviser has 89 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to My Risk Adviser?
You can listen to My Risk Adviser on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts My Risk Adviser?
My Risk Adviser is created and hosted by Phil Thompson.
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