

Financial Planner Life Podcast
Sam Oakes
Welcome to The Financial Planner Life Podcast. We cover an intimate and honest account of what it’s really like to work in the financial planning profession. Our guests share their stories of success, failures, and learnings, as well as what to expect from a career in the financial planning profession! We host guests at various stages in their careers, as well as multiple roles, to ensure that our audience has a variety each week. Financial planners, business owners, paraplanners, and back-office staff all have their own stories to share, and The Financial Planner Life podcast serves as a platform for them to discuss their personal and professional journeys. The podcast covers a multitude of topics, from mindset and motivation, health and wellbeing, all the way to diversity and inclusion. We approach each episode with the idea that it will educate and spark a conversation within the industry on topics that may not be openly discussed. If you're considering a career as a financial adviser or are curious about learning more about this exciting sector, we encourage you to give the podcast a listen. The Host: Sam Oakes is the host of The Financial Planner Life Podcast. since 2008 Sam has been supporting leading national and global financial planning firms in finding the best talent, he was the director of Recruit UK, a 7 figure turnover financial planning recruitment company that he successfully exited in 2024, Sam now works as the Head of Creative for Hoxton wealth, building out podcasts, YouTube and social content for this fast growing fee based international financial planning firm. Sam has always had a passion for financial services, starting as a trainer for a leading product provider in the UK, and he has been in the industry for over 20 years. He sees himself as a partner to the industry and wants to contribute useful resources, such as this podcast, to educate those who are further seeking advice and help about how to push their careers forward in this amazing profession.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 20, 2024 • 45min
Women, Wealth and Podcasting: Tracy Brookes' Journey Through Her Financial Planning Career
In this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes sits down with financial planner Tracy Brookes for an honest and open conversation about her journey into the financial planning profession. Join us as Tracy discusses her remarkable journey from a chartered financial planner to becoming an influential voice in the financial planning community as the new host of the Wealth and Women podcast. She shares her valuable insights on leadership, organisational strategies, and the importance of a supportive, growth-minded work environment. Learn firsthand how her podcast with the Personal Finance Society (PFS) aims to attract more women to the financial planning profession, making a substantial impact in a profession where female representation is still limited.Sam and Tracy talk about the art of juggling a thriving career and a busy family life, while she reveals her tips for effective organisation, discipline, and delegation as a working mother. The two also delve into a conversation about the evolution of the profession toward a client-focused service model, and how leveraging technology can elevate client engagement and free up valuable time for meaningful interactions. Listen to Tracy and Sam uncover the myths and realities of the financial planning profession. Tackling the misconceptions head-on, from the outdated view of financial planning as a sales job to the gender disparities still present in the field. This episode offers practical solutions for increasing gender diversity, building credibility and fostering professional growth - especially by harnessing the power of podcasts to promote women's voices in finance. Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Sep 12, 2024 • 1h 1min
From Retail to Financial Planning: The Transformative Journey of Godfrey Asare
Discover the transformative journey of Godfrey Asare, who transitioned from the food retail sector to becoming a successful financial planner, all while emphasizing the importance of financial literacy for everyone. This episode promises to unravel Godfrey's incredible story—from working at Waitrose, Itsu, and Marks and Spencer to his graduation from the prestigious St. James's Place Academy. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into how financial education can alleviate financial stress and improve mental health, irrespective of socioeconomic background.Godfrey's story is not just about career transitions but also about leveraging past experiences for future success. We discuss how his background in buying and negotiation has been instrumental in building trust and relationships in his financial planning career. The episode also delves into Godfrey's commitment to providing financial education seminars, particularly within the food and drink industry, and the dual role he often plays in offering both financial and buying advice. His insights into making employee benefits relevant and the positive feedback he has received are particularly noteworthy.Moreover, this episode emphasizes the power of purpose-driven work in fostering resilience and achieving long-term success. Godfrey shares personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of a strong support system, nurturing energizing relationships, and the value of content repurposing for social media. If you're looking to understand the profound impact of financial literacy, gain tips on career transitions, and be inspired by someone who has turned personal experiences into professional triumphs, then this conversation with Godfrey Asari is not to be missed.Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Sep 10, 2024 • 37min
From Accounting to Financial Planning: Charley Smith’s Journey to Success
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to make the leap from the UK to Dubai for a career in financial planning? In this episode, we sit down with Charley, a UK-born client services manager, to delve into her journey of transitioning from accounting in the UK to working in international financial planning in Dubai. Charley shares her personal motivations for the move, the challenges she faced, and the reality of living in a city known for its luxury and high cost of living. She offers a candid look at the financial and lifestyle adjustments required to thrive in this vibrant metropolis.Listen in as Charley discusses the significant financial considerations of living in Dubai, from high rent and living costs to the unique benefits of a tax-free income. She also sheds light on the lifestyle contrasts between Dubai and the UK, highlighting how the city’s diverse opportunities and sunny weather offer a different kind of quality of life. Beyond the glitz and glamour, Charley emphasizes Dubai’s wellness and family-friendly aspects, demonstrating that the city is more than just a playground for the wealthy.In addition, Charley reflects on her career ambitions and how Dubai has opened doors for her in the international financial planning arena. She talks about her plans to expand her qualifications to include U.S. certifications and her vision of potentially moving to other global markets in the future. Tune in to discover how Dubai is shaping her career and personal growth, and gain valuable insights into what it means to embark on an international career in financial planning.Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Sep 5, 2024 • 44min
From Admin to Paraplanner to Practice Manager - Paula Guedes Inspiring Journey in Financial Planning
What does it take to transition from an administrative role to a technical expert in financial planning? Join us as we talk with Paula Guedes, a dynamic practice lead at Foster Denovo. Paulas journey from Brazil to the UK, pursuing a master's in finance and economics, and working her way up from an entry-level position to a chartered paraplanner, is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how her analytical strengths and passion for financial planning have shaped her career, offering valuable insights for women aspiring to make their mark in this predominantly male-dominated profession. Communication is the cornerstone of any successful financial planning team. In this episode, Paola elaborates on the crucial relationship between financial advisers and paraplanners, emphasising the benefits of fostering a team atmosphere. She reveals how paraplanners can enhance client confidence by simplifying complex financial information, and discusses the unique perspective non-native English speakers can bring to the table. Celebrating the achievements of women in finance, Paola advocates for greater diversity and inclusion, making a compelling case for why the profession needs more female leaders.Paulas story of ambition and growth is both motivating and instructive. After significant personal milestones, such as the birth of her daughter, she returned to work with renewed vigor, tackling challenging qualifications and securing a promotion to chartered paraplanner. She highlights the importance of continuous learning, viewing failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback. By sharing her experiences at Foster Denovo, including the firm's impressive gender diversity and people-centric approach, Paula underscores the significance of personal growth and development within the company. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in one's career. if you are interested in joining Foster Denovo - Click here Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Aug 30, 2024 • 37min
Thriving in Dubai: This 22-Year-Old Financial Planner's Journey to Success - Ellie Gracie from Hoxton Wealth
Unlock the secrets to thriving in a tax-free entrepreneurial paradise as we sit down with Ellie Gracie, a driven 22-year-old financial planner from Hoxton Wealth who traded the historic streets of Edinburgh for the bustling avenues of Dubai. Ellie recounts her adventure of diving headfirst into Dubai’s high-energy, opportunity-laden environment, gaining invaluable experience in paraplanning and client relationship management under the mentorship of Hoxton Wealth's CEO, Chris Ball. Discover how the fast-paced lifestyle of Dubai contrasts with the more serene pace of Edinburgh and why this dynamic shift has been pivotal for Ellie's career.Ellie shares her strategic journey of breaking into financial planning, detailing her proactive steps from university to securing roles that honed her soft skills and practical know-how. We explore the challenges and rewards of managing multi-jurisdictional portfolios and the vital importance of building impeccable client relationships. Through a blend of administrative, analytical, and client-facing roles, Ellie is meticulously crafting a path towards obtaining professional qualifications in both the UK and the US, setting a solid foundation for a thriving career in financial planning.Lastly, tune in for an inspiring discussion on the role of women in finance, especially those navigating international waters. Ellie opens up about the support and mentorship she’s received at Hoxton, the importance of confident, strategic networking, and her lofty ambitions for content creation and connections. With stories of potential collaborations with influential figures like Jo Malone, this episode brims with ambition, inspiration, and actionable insights for anyone looking to carve out a successful career in financial planning, particularly in the vibrant city of Dubai.Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

4 snips
Aug 29, 2024 • 35min
From Graduate to Chartered Financial Planner & what I do in the paraplanner club - Matt Finch
Matt Finch, a financial planner who rose from administrator to managing a client book, shares his inspirational journey. He emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach in financial planning while managing diverse clients. Matt discusses the vital role of paraplanners, the challenges they face, and the supportive community of the Paraplanner Club. He also provides insights into career progression, the benefits of starting in smaller firms, and the significance of mentorship in the financial services industry. Perfect for anyone considering a career in financial planning!

Aug 23, 2024 • 44min
Global Compliance in Financial Planning: Insights from Paul Tate of Hoxton Capital Management
Unlock the secrets of global compliance in financial planning with our special guest, Paul Tate, the Global Head of Compliance at Hoxton Capital Management.From his humble beginnings as a financial advisor in South Africa to his influential role in Dubai, Paul shares his compelling journey and the passion that drives him. Discover how ethics and compliance can positively impact lives across different markets including the UK, Australia, the US, Cyprus (Europe), and South Africa.Navigate the intricate web of global financial regulations as Paul unravels the complex landscape of multi-jurisdictional compliance and Advice. Learn about the specific licenses and regulatory bodies that govern financial services in regions like Australia, the UAE, the USA, and South Africa. Paul offers his first-hand experience, detailing the challenges faced and strategies employed to maintain compliance while growing international operations. This segment provides an essential guide for anyone looking to understand the regulatory frameworks that shape global Financial Planning. Explore the future of financial services through technology, with a focus on its role in compliance and client management. Paul discusses how technological advancements are creating efficiencies and ensuring fair treatment for all clients.Additionally, we delve into the booming trend of digital nomadism, where financial planners can build a strong social media presence and enjoy a flexible lifestyle. This episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories, making it a must-listen for financial professionals and aspiring digital financial planning nomads alike.interested in joining Hoxton - Check out our careers page here or reach out directly to Sam Oakes Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

6 snips
Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 4min
The Transformative Journey of a Young Financial Planner - Dylan Ellis
Dylan Ellis, a young financial planner who turned personal adversity into success, shares his inspiring journey. He opens up about growing up in poverty and the devastating loss of his brother to suicide. Dylan emphasizes the transformative power of empathy gained through his experiences, advocating for mental health awareness in the finance industry. He also highlights the importance of support systems, discussing mentoring and healing circles that have shaped his career, and encourages men to embrace vulnerability in addressing mental health.

Aug 15, 2024 • 45min
Why Switching from Mortgage Advice to IFA is a good idea! With Daniel Hobbs of New Leaf
Are you a mortgage advisor looking for more stability and long-term growth in your career? Transitioning to an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA) might be the strategic move you’ve been searching for. In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Daniel Hobbs from New Leaf to explore the benefits and challenges of making the shift from mortgage advice to financial planning. They discuss the role of networks like New Leaf in supporting advisors through this transition, the potential for increased financial security and business growth as an IFA, and the key considerations for those thinking about making the leap. Daniel shares success stories from mortgage advisors who have successfully transitioned, offering practical advice on how to leverage existing client relationships and data to build a thriving IFA practice.Key Topics Covered:Introduction to New Leaf:Overview of New Leaf's support for mortgage advisors and IFAs.Explanation of the network's role in compliance, regulatory support, and fostering a community.The Case for Transitioning to IFA:Differences between mortgage advice and IFA roles.Long-term benefits of becoming an IFA, including recurring income and business value.Success stories from advisors who transitioned and grew their practices.Challenges and Considerations:Importance of a mindset shift from transactional sales to long-term financial planning.Financial implications of the transition, including the need for financial reserves.The necessity of patience and taking the time (6-24 months) to establish a successful IFA practice.Support from Networks Like New Leaf:New Leaf’s mentoring and development programs for new and transitioning IFAs.Importance of choosing a network that aligns with individual goals and offers comprehensive support.Details on New Leaf’s Academy program for guiding new advisors.Leveraging Existing Client Relationships:Strategies for mortgage advisors to use existing client data and networks to build their IFA business.Emphasis on understanding client assets early to identify wealth management opportunities.The Future of Financial Advice:Discussion on the decreasing number of wealth advisors and the growing advice gap.Opportunities for mortgage advisors to transition and meet the increasing demand for financial planning services.The role of technology and AI in enhancing advisor efficiency and client service.In conclusion, the episode offers valuable insights for mortgage advisors considering a transition to financial planning, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and the crucial role of networks like New Leaf in making this career shift successful.Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.

Aug 12, 2024 • 27min
Life Protection, Careers and International Opportunities at Hoxton Capital with new hire Adrian Benjamin and Sam Oakes
And another top hire for Hoxton Capital Managment in the UK!Join us on this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast as we sit down with Adrian Benjamin, who recently joined Hoxton Capital Management as a protection consultant. this is Adrians second spin on the Financial Planner Life Podcast! Adrian delves into his motivations for the career move, discussing Hoxton's innovative approach to financial services, their ambitious growth plans, and international reach. Reflecting on his journey over the past two years, Adrian shares his dedication to raising awareness about protection services, his social media advocacy, and his notable achievements, including winning the Dr. Marioness Barnard Award.Uncover the critical importance of life protection and financial security through Adrian's poignant personal stories. Following the passing of his father, Adrian's commitment to ensuring comprehensive protection for families has only strengthened. From life insurance to mental health and bereavement support, he emphasizes the breadth of policies available today. We also explore the exciting prospects of working with an international firm like Hoxton Capital, including opportunities for global mobility, such as moving to Dubai.Wrapping up, we dive into the evolving landscape of financial planning careers, highlighting the benefits of remote work for achieving a better work-life balance. Adrian and I discuss the significance of authenticity in professional roles, rapid business growth opportunities, and the support provided by Hoxton's Pathway Academy for aspiring financial planners. We also touch on the potential of the Expat Life podcast and other educational initiatives aimed at enhancing financial well-being. Tune in to hear about the promising future and shared enthusiasm for the journey ahead with a dynamic, young company led by visionary leadership. Welcome to Hoxton Adrian! if you ar einterested in joining Hoxton register your details here Financial Planner Life is sponsored by Redmill AdvanceWhether you're starting out, already qualified, or building a training academy, Redmill Advance delivers expert-led learning, exam support and CPD from Level 4 to Chartered.✅ Trusted by top UK firms👉 www.redmilladvance.com/fplBe sure to follow Financial Planner Life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning. Reach out to sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production. Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? Drop Sam a message.


