The Financial Planning Podcast

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Harry Thiel  

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Rebecca Aldridge  

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Claudia Clark

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Jonathan Newell

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Marina Herbert

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Vanessa Barnes

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Chris Palmer

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Matt Campbell Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Matt Campbell Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Max Sullivan Follow The Financial Planning Club    

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Taylor Beavis Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Justin King Follow The Financial Planning Club      

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Frazer Cronin Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Tim Horrocks Follow The Financial Planning Club    

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Amy Goodall-Smith Follow The Financial Planning Club  

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Tom Hegarty Follow The Financial Planning Club    

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Wes Wilkes Follow The Financial Planning Club  

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Susie Hill Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Pete Matthew Follow The Financial Planning Club  

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Alex Crowther Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Ben Edwards Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Try the Motivational check-in Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Chris Hindle Connect with James Mackay Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Dennis Harhalakis Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Mark Livingston Follow The Financial Planning Club

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. Connect with Lee Old Connect with Laurie Jacques

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. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with David Scholes Follow The Financial Planning Club

With more than two decades in financial services and 14 years running his own business, Tim has built a reputation for helping firms get the most out of their back-office systems, particularly Intelliflo. In this episode, he shares how Cicadian supports advice firms of all sizes with income reconciliation, configuration, valuations and beyond, all with a practical, personable and process-driven approach. We talk about the challenges of scaling a niche service business, why good tech support is more than just training, and how small changes in process can deliver big time savings. If you've ever thought "we're probably not using our system to its full potential" , this is the one to listen to. A great insight into the operational side of advice firms and the people behind keeping things running smoothly. Connect with Lee Old Connect with Tim Gale

After two decades in the investment world, Stuart is now stepping into financial planning with a fresh perspective, a ton of industry experience, and a healthy dose of imposter syndrome. From his early days as a discretionary fund manager to his current journey through the Verve Foundation's Consider and Build programmes, Stuart shares what it's like to go from observing planners to becoming one. This episode is a brilliant insight into the realities of career transition, the power of collaboration, and why curiosity might be the most underrated skill in financial planning today. Stuart's openness about self-doubt, accountability, and business building is what makes this conversation so relatable — especially for those plotting a change or starting something new. A must-listen for anyone thinking about taking the leap. Connect with Lee Old Connect with Stewart Heggie

After cutting his teeth at Hargreaves Lansdown and spotting a disconnect between advisers' strengths and their day-to-day workload, Oren Henry decided to do something about it. Now founder of AutoAdvice, he's building AI-powered tools to ease the burden of admin and compliance, giving advisers back the time and headspace to focus on their clients. In this conversation, Oren shares the story behind his leap into entrepreneurship, the lessons he's learned along the way, and why great technology starts with deep listening, not feature lists. If you've ever felt like tech solutions don't quite 'get' advice, this one will resonate. One for the forward-thinkers and the builders. Connect with Lee Old Connect with Oren Henry  

In this episode, we dive into one of the most frustrating blockers in financial planning: the letter of authority process. Nick Green, from data integration specialists Criterion, joins us to explain how his team is tackling this long-standing issue and why collaboration is the key to moving forward. Nick shares his perspective on: How technology is evolving to serve advisers more efficiently Why LOA processes are still so broken (and what's finally changing) The growing pressure to deliver cost-efficient advice in a hybrid, API-driven world An insightful chat with someone working behind the scenes to drive real progress in the profession. This one's for the planners who want admin to work smarter, not harder. Connect with Lee Old Connect with Nick Green  

After two decades helping financial planning firms scale, evolve and thrive, Keith Hare is now walking the talk. In this Podcast on Tour episode, we catch up with Keith as he prepares to launch Cadence Financial Planning, a new, AI-enabled advice firm rooted in purpose, clarity, and control. Keith shares what it's like to go from consultancy to co-founder, why he's focused on building a business that empowers both clients and advisers, and the thinking behind everything from his recruitment strategy to his tech stack. If you're thinking about what a modern, human-first firm looks like, or how to create a values-led business with true direction of travel, this conversation is packed with insight. This one's for the planners who want to build with intention. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Keith Hare  

In this episode, we sit down with Keith Boyes, Director and Financial Planner at Spentwell, to explore the realities of launching and growing a purpose-led financial planning firm. From his early days in Edinburgh (and a stint in Hong Kong) to building a business around clarity, community, and creativity, Keith shares the lessons he's learned over six years in business. We dive into: The power of community when you're going solo Why niching is often something that finds you How sport shaped Keith's approach to building a strong team The strategy behind his award-nominated masterclasses If you're thinking about going solo, scaling smart, or simply building a firm that feels like you, this one's packed with insight. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Keith Boyes

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we chat with Fred, founder of her own financial planning firm, fresh off her first year in business. She opens up about the reality of launching a practice while raising a family, the lessons she's learned, and the support systems that helped her get there (spoiler: community is everything). From the highs and lows of year one, to what it's really like navigating growth, hiring decisions, and charging reviews, this is an honest, thoughtful, and empowering listen for any planner building something of their own. If you're in year one, or reflecting on your own journey, this one's for you. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Frederika Clay

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we sit down with Chris Miles from SM Advice, a marketing and operational support firm built exclusively for financial advisers. Chris shares how their innovative use of BSL content and social scheduling is helping advice firms stay visible, inclusive, and connected to their audience, without burning out. From mindset shifts and letting go of control to building a business that doesn't run you, this is a brilliant chat about scalable marketing, smart delegation and unlocking more time to focus on the bits you actually enjoy. A must-listen for any advice firm owner who knows they should be doing more on social, but doesn't know where to start. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Chris Miles

In this episode, Lewis is joined by Gabriella Peters from the partnerships team at Saturn AI. With a background in science, Big Four experience, and a sharp eye on the future of advice, Gabby shares how Saturn is transforming financial planning firms from the inside out, helping to reduce admin, embed compliance, and free up time to focus on what really matters. From her personal career journey to actionable insight for ops directors and owner-managed firms, this one's full of practical takeaways for firms navigating growth, AI and the future of advice. Oh and a healthy dose of padel vs. paddle debate thrown in. If you're wondering what real AI integration can look like in your firm, start here. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Gabriella Peters Follow The Financial Planning Club

In this episode of The Financial Planning Club Podcast, Lewis is joined by Mark Wintle, Business Development Manager at WAY Trustees, award-winning estate planner, and former IFA with over 30 years in the profession. Mark shares how advisers can naturally bring trusts into the conversation, what makes WAY's approach different, and why trust planning isn't just for the ultra-wealthy. With a unique perspective from both sides of the advice process, Mark explains how smart estate planning drives better client outcomes, across generations. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Mark Wintle Follow The Financial Planning Club

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we sit down with Steven Rowe, Director and IFA at Lucent Financial Planning, for a conversation that goes well beyond the technical side of advice. Steven shares how he's built a business around connection, from community events for retirees to building a team of 15 and stepping back from doing it all himself. With warmth, wit, and a dose of real talk, he opens up about the realities of growing a firm, managing stress, hiring too late, and what he'd do differently if he had to start again. Down-to-earth, insightful, and quietly full of gold, this one's for every adviser who's building something that matters. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Steven Rowe  

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we chat with Ryan Milne, Senior Partner at Kate Bailey Financial Planning, about what it really looks like to build a long-term career in financial advice starting from the age of 16. Ryan shares his journey from an apprenticeship at Prudential to becoming a partner in an established firm, how he's overcome self-doubt, and why he's passionate about making financial planning more visible and accessible in his local community. It's a powerful reminder that the next generation of planners are already here and they're shaping the future. A brilliant listen for anyone building a career, a client base, or a business they want to be proud of. Connect with Amanda Ford Connect with Ryan Milne

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we're joined by Kate Phillips, Head of Sales at Timeline, for an open, upbeat conversation on what's really going on inside advice firms today. Kate shares her journey into the profession, why she's passionate about making financial planning more inclusive, and the work she's doing to support women across the sector. From information overload to the power of finding your tribe, this chat goes beyond product talk and gets to the heart of what helps advisers thrive, both in business and in life. Packed with energy, honesty and ideas, this one's well worth a listen. Connect with Amanda Ford Connect with Kate Phillips

In this Podcast on Tour episode, we sit down with Justine Randall, Chief Commercial Officer at Tatton Investment Management, for an inspiring conversation on careers, culture, and creating meaningful change in financial services. Justine shares her journey from medical school dropout to industry leader, why she believes financial planning needs more transferable talent, and how Tatton is helping planners thrive without compromising their independence. From grassroots mentoring to AI innovation, this is a masterclass in doing business with purpose. One for anyone who loves this profession and wants to leave it better than they found it. Connect with Amanda Ford Connect with Justine Randall  

In this episode of our Podcast on Tour series, we catch up with Freddie Winter, Director and Chartered Financial Adviser at Gratitude Financial Planning. Freddie shares what it's really like to go from adviser to business owner, from wearing every hat in the early days to learning how (and when) to outsource. He opens up about the challenges of staying visible on social media, the reality of hiring, and why building a lifestyle business around his young family is the goal right now. Real, relatable, and packed with lessons for any adviser running their own firm. It's a brilliant listen for anyone juggling growth and balance in their advice business. Connect with Amanda Ford Connect with Freddie Winter

In this episode of our Podcast on Tour series, we sit down with Paul Raventscroft, Strategic Business Development Specialist at Intelliflo, to unpack what digital transformation really means for advice firms today. Paul shares his perspective on where tech can help (without getting in the way), why data quality is now crucial under the FCA's evolving expectations, and how firm owners can future-proof their operations without compromising their identity. This one's for anyone trying to make sense of systems, CRMs, AI and how to take the next step without the overwhelm. A calm, grounded voice in the noise of the tech revolution. Well worth a listen. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Paul Ravenscroft

In this episode of our Podcast on Tour series, we're joined by Jonathan Newell, Founder and CEO of BareRock, the business rewriting the rulebook on PI insurance. Jonathan talks about moving the sector out of the dark ages, why governance and culture matter more than product types, and how BareRock rewards great firms with practical, tailored support. He also shares the realities of launching a disruptive business, what he's learned from years in commercial insurance, and why surrounding yourself with the right people is non-negotiable. If you've ever dreaded PI renewal, this one might just change your mindset. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Jonathan Newell

In this episode of our Podcast on Tour series, we sit down with Greg Moss, Chartered Financial Planner and founder of his own advice practice, to talk about what happens when you shift from chasing new business to focusing on deep, meaningful client relationships. Greg shares the moment he realised the traditional employed route was no longer serving him and how he's designed a business around his version of success. From managing pressure to scale, to mentoring the next generation of planners, this conversation is all about defining success on your own terms. A must-listen for any adviser wondering if "bigger" really means "better." Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Greg Moss

In this first episode of our Podcast on Tour mini-series, we're live at the Verve Evolution Conference in London, kicking things off with none other than Cathi Harrison, CEO of Verve. In this energetic chat, Cathi shares what it really takes to build a business that grows without grinding you down. From the power of delegation to the mindset shift from adviser to business owner, this one's packed with insight for firm owners ready to scale. If you're still wearing every hat in your firm, Cathy's advice might be exactly what you need to hear. Listen now and get inspired to do things differently. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Cathi Harrison 

In this special episode of The Financial Planning Podcast, Lewis sits down with Allen Johnson — coach, speaker, and founder of Allen Johnson Coaching, to talk fitness, mindset, and the power of small changes. AJ helps career-driven parents and business owners ditch the dad bod, boost their energy, and lead by example, without giving up wine, chocolate, or a social life. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Allen Johnson Follow The Financial Planning Club

In this episode, Lewis is joined by Nick Ryan, IFA, business owner, and Co-Founder of Pilot, for a real-world conversation about tech, time, and the systems holding advice firms back. Nick shares the journey behind building Pilot, a new all-in-one CRM designed by advisors, for advisors. But this isn't just a tech story, it's about what happens when you stop firefighting and start thinking like a business owner. From scaling without over-hiring, to simplifying client journeys, Nick offers practical insight for any advice firm owner looking to reclaim their time and run a smoother, leaner business. He also reflects on how running two businesses (and being a parent) forced him to get ruthless about focus, systems and mindset. If you've ever felt buried in platforms, tasks or to-do lists, this one's for you. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Nick Ryan Follow The Financial Planning Club

In this episode, Lewis is joined by Justine Randall, Chief Commercial Officer at Tatton Investment Management, for a practical and inspiring conversation about how financial planning firms can scale without burning out. Justine shares her journey through financial services and explores what it really takes to grow a lean, profitable advice business. From the importance of outsourcing investment management, to the hidden cost of trying to do it all yourself, this episode is packed with perspective for advice firm owners. She also opens up about work-life rhythm, leadership, and how Tatton supports over 1,100 financial planning firms across the UK through collaborative, advisor-led partnerships. If you're serious about building a future-ready advice business, this one's for you. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Justine Randall Follow The Financial Planning Club The Financial Planning Club Website 

This week on The Financial Planning Podcast, host Lewis Byford is joined by Sarah Steele, Operations Director at Yellowtail Financial Planning. With 20+ years in financial services, Sarah shares her refreshingly honest view of what it really takes to build a high-performing team, deliver an outstanding client experience, and lead a values-driven firm. In this conversation, she opens up about her journey from private banking at Coots to operations leadership in Devon, including how she re-entered the workforce after five years at home, the shift from culture activities to a culture of consistency, and what she's learned from reshaping the Yellowtail team for growth. From DIY to leadership, tech overwhelm to team kindness, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for owner-managers serious about building a better business. 🎧 A must-listen for anyone navigating change, culture, or team growth in a modern advice firm. Connect with Lewis Byford Connect with Sarah Steele Follow The Financial Planning Club The Financial Planning Club Website