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. 6 DAYS AGO

    From 17 Clients to £500M+ AUM: How Marc Norris Built a Thriving Financial Planning Firm

    Title: From 17 Clients to £500M AUM: How Marc Norris Built a Thriving Financial Planning Firm In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes is joined by Marc Norris, founder of Twelve Wealth Management, to explore how he went from estate agency to building a financial advice business with over £500 million under management. Marc shares his journey from day one of the St. James’s Place Academy, through the early years of client acquisition, to leading a team of 38 advisers and staff, with big plans to triple the size of the business in the next five years. 🔥 What you'll learn in this episode: How Marc used his estate agency background to win early clientsThe role the SJP Academy played in helping him build the foundationsWhy mortgages were a strategic way to keep cash flow going and build trustHow he built powerful introducer relationships, especially with accountantsHow he supports an accountancy firm with 8,000 clients through education and webinarsWhy relationship-building still beats technical knowledge in the early yearsHow he plans to scale towards £1 billion AUM with a long-term mindset💬 Marc’s story is a real-world example of what it takes to grow a successful advice business from the ground up and it’s packed with practical insights for anyone building a career in financial planning. 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.

    51 min

  2. 11 DEC

    How A 20% Pay Cut Became A Career Breakthrough In Wealth Management

    In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes talks with Neil Whiteside, a financial planner at First Equitable, about his winding, risk‑reward career journey from starting as a cashier in banking to embracing financial planning, taking a pay cut for growth as a trainee Financial Planner, and ultimately choosing a role that lets him help build a business rather than just sustain one. Neil shares: How his early roles in banking taught him core skills (customer service, fact‑finding, relationship building).The tough choice to leave a secure management path to pursue financial planning.What it took to get back to his previous income after stepping into a trainee adviser role. How specialisation (e.g., working with hospital doctors and understanding complex pension schemes) boosted his confidence and client value.His transition from corporate structures to smaller firms, where influence, autonomy, and entrepreneurial energy matter.Why protection advice is undervalued and the power it has to transform clients’ lives.How voluntary work and governance roles are shaping his long‑term vision - including non‑executive director aspirations.This episode offers honest career reflections and tactical lessons for aspiring and established advisors alike. 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.

    57 min

  3. 26 NOV

    Life as a Hyper Local Female Financial Planner in Bishop’s Stortford

    In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Sam Oakes speaks with Tammy Salmon and Emma Layton of Salmon Financial Planning, a partner practice of St. James’s Place in Bishop’s Stortford. We hear how Emma transitioned from redundancy to a qualified financial planner through the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy, supported by Tammy’s mentorship. Tammy shares her 20-year journey in financial services and why creating a flexible, values-led business was essential for her success and her team’s. Together, they explore: Why women leave financial services mid-careerThe power of local, relationship-led client acquisitionFrom mortgage adviser to business ownerWhy visibility of women in leadership mattersHow motherhood and financial planning can thrive side-by-sideIf you’re considering a career in financial planning or want to build a more inclusive practice, this episode is for you. 00:00 - Intro to Tammy & Emma’s Story 01:45 - Why So Few Women Become Financial Advisers 04:30 - Tammy’s Journey from Mortgage to Financial Advice 07:50 - Emma’s Career Change & Entry via SJP Academy 11:10 - The Role of Mentorship in Career Progression 14:30 - Creating a Flexible, Family-First Advice Firm 18:15 - Visibility of Women in Leadership Roles 22:00 - Local Marketing & The Bishop’s Stortford Mummies 25:45 - Authenticity Over Aggression in Sales 29:00 - Work-Life Balance and Setting Boundaries 32:10 - Advice for Women Entering Financial Planning 35:20 - Who the SJP Academy is Right For 37:45 - Legacy, Purpose & Final Reflections 40:00 - Wrap Up & How to Connect 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

  4. 19 NOV

    How to Build a Referral-Driven Financial Planning Business with Rosie Hooper

    This week on the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes sits down with Rosie Hooper, Chartered Fellow and Financial Planner at Quilter Cheviot. Rosie shares her inspiring 26-year journey from her early days in bank management, through corporate employee benefits, to becoming a highly respected private client planner. Rosie talks candidly about how growing up in a household where money was tight shaped her relationship with finances and fuelled her passion for planning. She opens up about the emotional depth of her client work, why she proudly calls herself a "financial planner" rather than an advisor, and how truly understanding her clients’ lives, not just their portfolios, makes all the difference. In this episode, you’ll learn: The mindset shift from corporate benefits to private client advice, and how the two worlds are more connected than you thinkHow to create a referral engine by delivering a first-class, emotionally resonant client experienceThe power of coaching and mentorship in developing new talent (and why "menchoring" might be the secret sauce)Why confidence is just as important as competence, and how Rosie helps emerging planners build bothHow AI is enhancing client service at Quilter Cheviot while preserving the all-important human touchRosie's two "magic wand" wishes for the future of the financial planning professionPlus, hear about the "health and wealth seesaw” she uses to help clients balance financial goals with living a fulfilling, healthy life. Discover how this approach, alongside her deep client relationships, has earned her the nickname Rosie Poppins. Whether you're new to financial planning or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical wisdom for building a client-focused, referral-based business. 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.

    45 min

  5. 12 NOV

    He Built 40 Clients in a Library. Now He Manages £58M AUM

    This week on the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes speaks with James Westpfel, a financial planner at Foster Denovo, who shares his career journey from self-employed to employed and how going hyper-local helped him build a thriving client base from scratch. After 22 years working in a building society, James made the leap into self-employment. With no client book and no lead funnel, he turned to his local community for opportunity. His strategy? Show up in person, build trust and offer financial guidance where people needed it most. By setting up a weekly financial advice clinic in a local community library, James became a familiar, approachable presence. That hyper-local client strategy helped him win over 40 clients organically, through word of mouth and relationships built face-to-face. In this episode, James opens up about: ✅ His transition from redundancy to retraining as a financial planner ✅ The highs and lows of being a self-employed financial planner ✅ How he used a hyper-local strategy to win clients and build trust ✅ Why he moved to an employed role at Foster Denovo ✅ How structure and support have helped him thrive, managing a book of 170 clients ✅ What financial planners should consider when choosing between self-employed and employed paths If you're exploring a financial planner career, looking for new ways to connect with clients, or considering the realities of self-employed vs employed advice, this episode is packed with insight and real-world experience. 00:00 – Intro: Why finding clients is the hardest part   00:30 – Redundancy after 22 years in banking   01:45 – From cashier to branch manager: James’ early career   04:00 – The reality of high street banking and community connection   06:20 – Is banking still a good route into financial planning?   08:00 – Retraining at 42: Overcoming fears and starting again   09:40 – Finding opportunities after qualification   10:20 – Choosing the self-employed route in financial advice   11:30 – The biggest challenge: confidence and standing out   12:40 – The hyper-local idea that changed everything   14:00 – Setting up a financial advice clinic in a community library   16:00 – Becoming “The Library Guy” and winning 40+ clients   18:10 – Why James works with clients of all wealth levels   19:40 – Building a referral network with care and integrity   22:00 – Hyper-local visibility: how trust builds trust   24:00 – Connecting with local businesses and schools   26:30 – From library pop-ups to career opportunities   27:20 – Why James chose to join Foster Denovo   29:00 – Managing 170 clients: structure, support, and growth   30:30 – Balancing work, family, and purpose   32:00 – Keeping the community work alive at Foster Denovo   34:00 – Advice for planners considering employed vs self-employed   36:00 – Final thoughts: trust, career clarity, and client care   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.

    37 min

  6. 7 NOV

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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
See All (259)

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
    259
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Financial Planner Life Podcast
  • Show Website
    Financial Planner Life Podcast

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