Financial Planner Life Podcast

Sam Oakes
  • 4.7 (55)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. Be sure to check out Financial Planner Life Academy - start your career today! https://financialplannerlife.com/academy/

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    From the Trading Floor To Financial Planner with £70 Million AUM

    In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Kanishk Swarup shares his incredible journey from high-stakes equity derivatives trading at JP Morgan and Credit Suisse to launching his own financial planning practice through the St. James’s Place Academy. We explore what it’s really like to work on a trading floor, the burnout behind big bonuses, and the unexpected truth: even successful finance professionals often have no financial plan. Kanishk opens up about growing up in a small town in India, landing a scholarship at LSE, navigating culture shock in the UK, and building a life from scratch — all leading to a career defined by purpose over pressure. He now runs Compound Wealth Planning, a thriving partner practice with £70 million in assets under management. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The harsh truths behind trading at global investment banksWhy burnout pushed Kanishk to rethink his career trajectoryHow helping colleagues with their bonuses sparked a career shiftWhat made the St. James’s Place Academy the perfect next stepThe mindset it takes to build a successful planning business from zeroWhy lifestyle creep is the hidden enemy of financial freedomHow Kanishk defines success today — and why it’s not about the money✨ Who This Episode is For: Career changers curious about financial planningProfessionals in high-stress finance roles questioning their pathAspiring planners interested in the St. James’s Place AcademyFinancial services leaders looking to attract new talentAnyone who believes in the power of long-term thinking and purpose-driven work🔗 Resources & Mentions: Learn more about St. James’s Place Academy Follow Kanishk Swarup on LinkedIn Check out Compound Wealth Planning Connect with Sam Oakes on LinkedInBe 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.

    47 min

  2. 29 OCT

    Active vs Passive investing: A Pointless Debate for Financial Planners?

    In this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes sits down with Andrew Spence, Co-Founder of Aspen, to challenge the industry’s most controversial questions - what we call the Marmite topics of financial planning. Aspen was born out of something deeper than disruption. After a personal health crisis led Andrew to reflect on the impact of his work, he decided to build a model portfolio service that put purpose, clarity & client outcomes first. Now, he’s leading the charge on topics that divide financial services professionals daily. 🚨 Here’s what we cover: Is evidence-based investing just clever branding - or genuinely better for clients?Why most risk profiling tools are broken & unhelpfulShould financial planners choose sides in the active vs passive debate?The rise of Bitcoin, the return of gold, & the role of private equity in portfoliosHow Aspen uses tech that actually works for financial planners & their clientsWhy first-principles thinking beats copy-paste product designAndrew shares why financial planners need to stop overcomplicating things & start designing investment experiences that genuinely serve the people behind the portfolios. This is a must-watch for: ✔️ Financial planners seeking clarity in the chaos ✔️ Firms looking to improve their MPS offering ✔️ Advisers questioning the one-size-fits-all model ✔️ Anyone ready to rethink what investment management should look like 📩 Learn more about Aspen or book a discovery session.  🔗 Follow Sam Oakes & Financial Planner Life on LinkedIn 00:00 - Intro: From engineering to investment management   00:34 - Andrew's early career & first role in wealth management   02:45 - A personal health crisis & the search for purpose   04:44 - Is finance a noble profession?   05:39 - Why start an MPS business in a saturated market?   08:06 - How engineering logic shaped Aspen's investment approach   09:33 - Building intuitive tech for financial planners   11:05 - Starting from scratch: Aspen’s early days & growth   13:28 - Early supporters & the power of trust in MPS   14:41 - Social proof & buying decisions in financial planning   16:17 - Could AI avatars replace financial advisers?   18:21 - Active vs Passive - is the debate pointless?   22:34 - Is evidence-based investing just marketing?   25:16 - Why risk profiling is broken   29:01 - Should Bitcoin or gold be in portfolios?   32:44 - Is private equity too complex for clients?   34:43 - Andrew’s approach to LinkedIn & thought leadership   37:04 - Sam’s take: Building trust & visibility on LinkedIn   41:04 - Why YouTube is a goldmine for financial planners   42:37 - Sam’s full breakdown of a video-first marketing setup   45:19 - Turning content into conversations & conversions   46:32 - Engagement matters: Don’t post & ghost   48:24 - What’s next for wealth management & MPS?   50:01 - Final reflections & how to connect with Aspen   QFrXdmRdqMuoQ1DSQ5qd Be 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.

    56 min

  3. 8 OCT

    From JP Morgan to £150M AUM: - Building a Referral-Only Financial Advice Practice

    Karen Berisford, Chartered Financial Planner and Fellow of the PFS, left a prestigious investment role at JP Morgan to build a client-first advice practice with St. James’s Place. She prioritised trust, time control, and service over scale-at-all-costs. In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Karen shares how she grew to £150M AUM without relying on social media or paid marketing. Instead, she focused on referrals and long-term, values-led growth. You’ll learn: How to transition from investments to adviceThe fear and reward of becoming client-facingTurning one ex-colleague’s “yes” into a thriving networkWhy trust, consistency, and integrity beat any sales pitchThe realities of flexible working when you run your own practiceHow the Women Returners Network helped her hire two standout advisersThe compounding effect of delegation, leadership, and supportThe key benefits of the SJP partnership modelWhy building optionality starts long before a saleIf you’re serious about building a meaningful career in financial planning, this is your blueprint. 🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share the one insight you’ll put into action this week. Be 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.

    38 min

  4. 3 OCT

    Can 105 Financial Advisers Be Wrong? Find Out!

    Is This the Best IFA Network?  Sam Oakes Meets Sam Wallis – New Leaf Distribution Visit:  reach out to new leaf - click here  Welcome back to the Financial Planner Life Podcast, where we explore what it really takes to build a meaningful and rewarding career in financial planning. This week, host Sam Oakes speaks with Sam Wallis, Managing Director of New Leaf Distribution, to unpack how this IFA network is giving self-employed advisers true branding freedom, community support, and the tools they need to thrive. If you’re wondering “Is this the best IFA network?” — this episode might help you decide. New Leaf currently supports around 350 advisers across mortgages, protection, and financial advice. Whether you're a newly qualified adviser, a mortgage professional looking to futureproof your business, or a registered individual stuck in an outdated setup, this could be your next move. 👉 Interested in joining New Leaf Distribution? Visit: https://newleafdistribution.co.uk 🔑 What we cover in this episode: Building your brand as a self-employed IFA What it's like being an appointed representative under New Leaf The importance of community, mentorship and real development Why some advisers are leaving other networks for New Leaf Distribution AI tools, paraplanning support and pre-approval compliance Attracting new talent into the profession The rise of mortgage advisers transitioning into financial planning What makes a truly supportive IFA network in 2025 👤 About Sam Wallis Sam Wallis is the Managing Director at New Leaf Distribution, a progressive IFA network focused on empowering advisers to build their own businesses and brands, with the right infrastructure and support behind them. His vision is to combine branding freedom with a strong compliance framework, mentoring and community. 🔗 Learn more at: https://newleafdistribution.co.uk Be 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.

    35 min

  5. 26 SEPT

    Working 3 Days a Week as a Financial Planner and Thriving!

    In this episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Hannah Witty, Chartered Financial Planner at Foster Denovo, to explore her inspiring journey into financial planning. From working on superyachts to becoming one of the earliest Chartered female planners in the UK, Hannah shares the personal and professional hurdles she faced as a woman, a mother, and a leader in a male-dominated industry. We talk about her career beginnings, the impact of becoming a mother, navigating flexibility as an employed adviser, and the emotional realities of returning to work. Hannah also offers insight into what it's like working at Foster Denovo post-acquisition, as well as the importance of workplace culture, flexibility, and recognition. Her story is a powerful reminder that you can excel as both a parent and a financial professional. She’s living proof that success isn’t just about titles, it’s about happiness, purpose, and support. This episode is a must-listen for: Women considering a career in financial planningWorking parents seeking flexibilityFirms striving to build inclusive and supportive culturesAnyone who believes in the power of mentorship and representation Be 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.

    28 min

  6. 11 SEPT

    Career Tips From Successful Financial Planners Part 1 - Golf Day

    🎥 Financial Planner Life Golf Day | Game 1: Vikash Kanani vs Paul Taylor Real Golf. Real Financial Planners, Real Finanical Planning Career advice. Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify - here Welcome to the first ever Financial Planner Life Golf Day, where the fairway becomes a forum for honest, unfiltered career advice in financial planning. 🏌️‍♂️ The Match: It’s Vikash Kanani (MD, Chatsworth Wealth) vs Paul “The Power” Taylor (Chartered Planner & Coach) in a competitive 9-hole matchplay at Mappley Golf Course, Nottingham. 🎒 Caddies: • Paul Bradley (Founder, Chiltern Hills FP) • Jay Dhaliwal (Chartered Planner & Young Achiever of the Year 2023) 🎤 Featuring appearances and insights from: • Mike Yuille (financial planner and straight-talking realist) • Carla Brown (President of the PFS & Director at Oakmere Wealth) • Guy Skinner (Founder, Citygate – the “4-week career starter”!) • Your host, Sam Oakes, bringing the banter and asking the real questions ⸻ ✅ Topics we cover on the course: • Starting your career in financial planning with zero clients • The truth about referrals (and how to ask for them properly) • Niche marketing, cashflow struggles, and what no one tells you about year one • How AI is reshaping advice and speeding up training • Imposter syndrome and gaining confidence as a new planner • Managing time, energy, and avoiding “playing office” • The power of mentorship, and the case for being a human first planner 🔑 Quote of the Day: “AI lets you be more human. And that’s where the real value in advice lives.” – Vikash Kanani ⸻ 🏆 But who won the match? Let’s just say it came down to the final green. One clutch putt. One celebration. And one loser with their head in their hands. You’ll have to watch to find out. Be 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.

    1h 7m

  7. 11 SEPT

    Career Tips From Successful Financial Planners Part 2 - Golf Day

    Welcome to Day 2 of the Financial Planner Life Golf Day – where birdies, bogeys, and brilliant business insights go hand in hand. You can watch this episode on youtube or spotify!  here  This round sees Michael Yuille CFP™ (aka Mr #ChickenTuesday) and Sam Oakes take on Carla Brown (President of the PFS) and Guy Skinner (Citygate Financial Planning) in a best-of-seven match play showdown — with caddies, clubs, and competitive spirit fully loaded. What starts as a light-hearted game quickly turns into a meaningful conversation about building a career in financial planning, winning business, and doing the right thing — both on and off the course. 🏌️‍♂️ Today’s Golfers & Caddies: Michael Yuille CFP™ – France-based Certified Financial Planner™, U.K. pension specialist, and U.S. investment adviser helping UK/US expats retire in France. Known for viral LinkedIn content under #ChickenTuesday.Sam Oakes – Host of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, producer of content for the financial services, and founder and seller of a 7-figure turnover financial planning recruitment company. Expert in video-first marketing and passionate about attracting fresh talent to the profession.Carla Brown – President & Chair of the Personal Finance Society and MD of Oakmere Wealth Management. Champion of inclusivity and a major voice for women in financial planning.Guy Skinner – Director at Citygate Financial Planning and patron of Stand By Me, a bereavement counselling charity. Specialises in protection-led planning and advising legal professionals.🎤 You’ll also hear from: Paul Bradley – Founder of Chiltern Hills Financial Planning, passionate about values-based, lifestyle-led advice.Jay Dhaliwal – Chartered Financial Planner and Young Achiever of the Year 2023, representing the next generation of high-impact advisers.Paul Taylor FPFS – Chartered Planner, Certified Coach and Wealth Management Coach, helping planners grow personally and professionally.Vikash Kanani – Managing Director of Chatsworth Wealth Management Ltd, building a people-first advice business with empathy and integrity.🎯 In this episode, we explore: Why referrals are still the #1 business development toolHow protection advice opens the door to long-term client relationshipsThe key to building a client bank under 45Carla’s mission to attract more women into financial planningHow to get comfortable with asking for referrals (without sounding salesy)Why personality matters just as much as qualificationsBuilding your brand on LinkedIn through authenticity and humourSuccession, hiring the right people, and getting your culture right❤️ Charity Spotlight: This episode also highlights Stand By Me, a bereavement support charity for children and young people, with Guy Skinner as a proud patron. If you enjoyed the episode and want to give back, please consider making a donation: Be 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.

    47 min

  8. 1 SEPT

    How to pass the CII R01-RO6 exams (DipPFS) in 6 months. 2025 update!

    How do you pass the CII RO exams and achieve the DipPFS?  In this episode of Financial Planner Life, host Sam Oakes speaks with Gary Paul (Academy Relationship Manager, St. James’s Place Academy), John Smith (Qualifications/Technical Trainer, Redmill Advance) and Rebecca Bidwell, who passed the DipPFS in just 5 months. We answer the top questions aspiring advisers ask: What are the RO exams? → Six modules (RO1–RO6) that make up the CII DipPFS qualification.Which RO exam is hardest? → Most students struggle with RO3 (Personal Taxation).How long does DipPFS take? → Many take 12–18 months, but Rebecca did it in 5 with the right support.Do I need experience? → No. With the Academy and Redmill Advance, even career changers can pass.As a Back to School Special, the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy have 100 discount codes to get 50% OFF RO1 learning materials with Redmill Advance. Financial Planner Life listeners can access the codes on a first come first served basis: 👉 Claim your exclusive discount now: https://shorturl.at/Fn8wP If you would prefer watching the episode, you can here on the Financial Planner Life Youtube Channel  -  This episode blends real experience with expert training insights, making it the perfect study guide if you’re preparing for your CII regulated financial adviser exams. Be 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.

    30 min
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4.7
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

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. Be sure to check out Financial Planner Life Academy - start your career today! https://financialplannerlife.com/academy/

Information

  • Creator
    Sam Oakes
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    254
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Financial Planner Life Podcast
  • Show Website
    Financial Planner Life Podcast

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