BWD: In The Know

BWD

Join us for expert interviews, engaging panel discussions, and recruitment insights. Listeners can expect to gain a deeper understanding of market trends, hear real-life success stories, and get practical advice on navigating the job market. "Offering a unique and dynamic platform for professionals in the financial services industry, our podcast aims to foster meaningful conversations, share valuable knowledge, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth in the ever-evolving financial services sector." - James Walker, Managing Director | BWD. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 6d ago

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Hazel Bowen

    Clarity, Curiosity & Belonging with Hazel Bowen In episode 57 of BWD In The Know, James Walker is joined by multi-award-winning financial planner Hazel Bowen FPFS TEP for the latest conversation in the Future Fit Financial Planning series.   Hazel's route into the profession was anything but straightforward. Growing up in a working-class household in Norwich, moving from state school to private education on a bursary and later building a successful career in financial planning have all shaped how she thinks about opportunity, leadership and belonging.   Diagnosed as autistic and with ADHD as an adult, Hazel speaks openly about the relief that came with understanding herself differently, the value - and limitations - of labels, and why being neurodivergent cannot simply be treated as something an individual should learn to "fix".   In this episode, James and Hazel discuss: Hazel's upbringing and the impact class and belonging had on her early lifeWhy learning to back yourself can matter more than looking like the "finished article"Her unconventional route from leaving A-levels to becoming a financial plannerServant leadership and why creating a genuine sense of belonging mattersHazel's experience of receiving an autism and ADHD diagnosis as an adultWhy labels can provide understanding without needing to define someoneThe importance of curiosity over assumption when leading different peopleWhy reasonable adjustments can benefit both the individual and the businessMasking, direct communication and becoming more comfortable with who you areWhy "clarity is kindness" when giving feedbackThe difference between cultural fit and cultural enrichmentWhy diversity of thought makes teams and businesses strongerHow experience can become a leadership blind spot when curiosity disappears  This is an open and deeply personal conversation about neurodiversity, leadership and what it really takes to create workplaces where different people can thrive.   Above all, it is a reminder that good leadership does not require having all the answers. Sometimes it starts with being curious enough to recognise that the person opposite you may experience the world very differently. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Future Fit Leadership 01:01 Childhood, Class and Belonging 05:25 Self-Belief and Backing Yourself 07:57 Representation and Speaking Openly 10:43 Finding a Career in Financial Planning 13:38 Servant Leadership and Creating Belonging 15:53 Hazel's Autism and ADHD Diagnosis 21:20 Relief, Labels and Understanding Yourself 27:07 Identity and Communication Differences 35:33 Curiosity and Proper Conversations 38:41 Reasonable Adjustments and Better Performance 44:35 Preparing for Better Conversations 48:32 Masking and Becoming More Yourself 56:12 Why Clarity Is Kindness 62:31 Directness, Honesty and Respect 67:07 Diversity of Thought and Cultural Enrichment 71:43 Curiosity, Experience and Future Leaders 75:25 One Wish: Joy and Belonging Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Hazel Bowen
  2. Aug 21

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Sarah Roughsedge

    Sarah Roughsedge: Women and Wealth, Financial Confidence and Rethinking Financial Advice In this episode of BWD In The Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management. Ellie is joined by Sarah Roughsedge, Chartered Financial Planner, author and founder of Eva Wealth, for a conversation about women and wealth, financial confidence and why the traditional advice model hasn’t always worked for everyone. Sarah shares her unconventional journey into financial services, having originally trained as a neuroscientist before changing direction and becoming a financial planner. She reflects on the experiences that led her to recognise how often women were being left out of financial conversations, and why she decided to build an approach designed to make money and investing feel more accessible. In this episode, they discuss: Sarah’s unconventional career journey from neuroscience into financial planning, and how her original training still influences the way she works with clients todayWhy women have historically been left out of core financial conversations and how this can affect confidence around money and investingHow financial services has traditionally communicated differently with men and women, and why language and approach matterMoving beyond products and performance to understand a client’s values, behaviours, priorities and wider lifeWhy clients going through divorce, bereavement and other major life changes may need more time and space before making financial decisionsChallenging the idea that women are naturally more cautious investors, and why confidence and understanding can be more important than capabilityThe role of financial coaching alongside traditional advice and how understanding behaviour can help clients make better decisionsMaking financial guidance more accessible to people who may not fit the traditional wealth management modelThe growing role of AI and technology in financial advice, what it could replace and where trust and human relationships will continue to matterSarah’s wider mission to improve women’s financial confidence through her book, Smart Money, Strong Women, and her upcoming app, MyWealthVault This is an open and thought-provoking conversation about women and wealth, the psychology behind financial decision-making and how the advice profession can continue to evolve to better serve the individual sitting in front of you. Whether you work in wealth management or financial planning, are interested in the future of advice, or simply want to better understand the relationship between money, confidence and behaviour, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah and Evo Wealth 04:01 Creating a Women-Centric Financial Proposition 07:16 Building a Differentiated Financial Service 11:02 Women in Finance and the Boys Club Mentality 16:50 The Evolution of Financial Advice Delivery 21:34 The Importance of Giving Women Space to Decide 25:09 Building a Community for Women in Finance 26:15 The Need for Ongoing Support for Women Clients 27:16 Traditional Advice vs. Personalized Approach 28:29 Sarah's Book: Smart Money Strong 30:26 Content of the Book and Its Benefits 33:28 The Journey of Publishing the Book 35:06 The New Financial App as a Personal Coach 39:11 Launching the App and Community Feedback 40:17 The Role of Coaching in Financial Advice 41:45 The Future of Advice, Technology, and Trust 43:30 The Human Element in Financial Advice 45:31 The Impact of AI and Technology 46:51 The Next Steps for Evo Wealth 50:30 Advice for Advisors on Tailoring for Women Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Sarah Roughsedge
  3. Aug 7

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Louisa Braywood

    Louisa Braywood: Women, Wealth and the Power of Human Connection  In this episode of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management.   Ellie is joined by Louisa Braywood, Investment Manager, for a conversation about financial confidence, authentic relationship-building and making investing feel more accessible to women.   Louisa shares her unconventional journey into wealth management, beginning her career at just 18 and learning the industry from the ground up. She reflects on developing her technical knowledge, becoming Chartered and discovering that the client-facing, human side of investment management was where her real passion lay.   In this episode, they discuss: Louisa’s unconventional route into wealth management, starting her career at 18 and building confidence through experience and professional qualificationsWhy money is never just money, but represents family, freedom, security and the futureThe importance of empathy, emotional intelligence and understanding behavioural biases when supporting clientsHow AI and technology can make investing more accessible without replacing the value of human relationshipsWhy the investment gap is not a capability issue, but often a confidence and exposure issueInvolving both partners in financial conversations and supporting clients through divorce, bereavement and other significant life eventsRemoving unnecessary jargon and making conversations about money and investing easier to understandBuilding visibility through LinkedIn, personal brand and putting yourself outside your comfort zoneApproaching networking authentically and creating more engaging, inclusive professional eventsLouisa’s ambition to become the person women recommend when they need support with their finances  This is an open and engaging conversation about women and wealth, building genuine relationships and why the most effective investment management goes far beyond portfolios and performance.   Whether you work in wealth management, are developing your career in the profession, or want to understand how investing can become more accessible, relatable and human, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Louisa and episode overview 02:54 Early career, qualifications, and client-facing roles 07:05 The importance of technical knowledge and relationship skills 10:49 Impact of AI and robo-advice on personalised service 15:12 Encouraging women to invest and increasing financial confidence 16:59 Changing industry perceptions and making finance accessible 18:57 Supporting women through life transitions and emotional moments 21:00 The importance of understanding clients’ emotional backgrounds 23:03 Addressing confidence gaps and social influences on women’s investing 24:49 The significance of early pension and savings education 26:46 Learning from industry mentors and shadowing experiences 28:54 Building relationships through in-person and virtual meetings 31:02 Networking strategies and leveraging social media 33:07 Hosting inclusive events and fostering community 35:04 Differentiating oneself in a competitive industry 36:55 Advice for less confident networkers and introverts 39:11 Industry changes needed to attract more women 40:51 Encouraging young women to pursue careers in finance 43:02 Louisa’s vision of success and personal branding 44:57 Final advice to her younger self and closing remarks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Louisa Braywood
  4. Aug 5

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Sarah Soar

    From Wealth Management to Health Management. Some careers evolve. Others redefine an industry. In this episode of Future Fit Financial Planning, James Walker is joined by Sarah Soar, Founder of Estelle: Health is Wealth and former CEO of Hawksmoor Investment Management, to explore why the future of leadership isn't just about managing wealth, but managing health. Drawing on four decades in financial services and executive leadership, Sarah shares how her experiences of leading through significant organisational change ultimately inspired the launch of Estelle: Health is Wealth; a business built on a simple but powerful belief: the health of your leadership team is your greatest business asset, and one of your biggest business risks. Together, they discuss: Sarah's journey from CEO to entrepreneur Why health management belongs in the boardroom The hidden cost of stress, burnout and poor decision-making Building healthier, higher-performing leadership teams Why prevention delivers better business outcomes than intervention The role of breathwork, movement and nervous system regulation Why the future of leadership starts with healthier people Whether you're leading a financial planning business, advising clients or simply looking to perform at your best, this episode offers a fresh perspective on sustainable leadership and long-term success. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:16 Sarah Soar's 40-year career in wealth management 03:54 Leading through COVID and a major acquisition 04:18 From aspiring doctor to accidental stockbroker 07:00 Discovering yoga and managing pressure 12:47 What yoga really is (and isn't) 16:25 Why daily practice changed everything 18:20 Leaving corporate life and training as a yoga teacher 22:10 Why leaders switch off when they hear the word "yoga" 27:10 Introducing the idea of "Health Management" 31:00 Fight or flight vs rest and digest 35:20 Burnout, business risk and prevention 40:40 Looking after your body like your most valuable asset 43:00 Why corporate culture normalises unhealthy behaviour 47:20 The business case for investing in people 53:00 Faster business, greater pressure and modern leadership 55:10 Why many wellbeing programmes only scratch the surface 59:10 The financial cost of burnout 01:01:20 Making alternative approaches mainstream 01:04:15 Better decisions through calmer leadership 01:07:45 From Wealth Management to Health Management Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Sarah Soar
  5. Jul 30

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with James Connor

    Some careers follow a carefully mapped-out route. Others take an unexpected turn. In this episode of Future Fit Financial Planning, James Walker is joined by James Connor, Founder & CEO of Connor Broadley, to explore the journey from professional footballer to business owner, and the principles that have shaped nearly two decades of independent financial planning. From earning just £250 in their first month of trading to building one of the City's most respected wealth management firms, James reflects on the importance of client relationships, long-term thinking and staying true to your values, even as the profession continues to evolve. Together, they discuss: James' journey from Millwall Football Club to financial planningWhy client relationships should always come before commercial growthBuilding Connor Broadley with patience, purpose and clear principlesIndustry consolidation and what independent firms should protectSuccession planning and preparing businesses for the futureTechnology, infrastructure and attracting the next generation of clientsWhat leadership, resilience and partnership really look like over the long term Whether you're a financial planner, adviser, business owner or simply interested in building a business with lasting values, this episode offers an honest conversation about growth, integrity and creating something that stands the test of time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with James Connor
  6. Jul 23

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Marie Smith

    Marie Smith: Confidence, Community and Creating Meaningful Change   In this episode of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the latest instalment of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management.   Ellie is joined by Marie Smith, Relationship Associate Partner at Cooper Parry Wealth, for a conversation about confidence, community, inclusive leadership and creating meaningful change within the financial planning profession.   Marie shares her journey from starting in an administrative role to progressing through paraplanning, advice and leadership. She reflects honestly on experiencing imposter syndrome, the importance of mentorship and advocacy, and how learning to recognise her own strengths helped shape her career.   In this episode, they discuss: ·      Marie’s journey from administration and paraplanning into financial advice and leadership ·      Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence throughout your career ·      Why you do not need to feel 100% ready before taking your next step ·      The difference between mentoring talented people and actively advocating for them ·      How leaders can recognise those who may not naturally shout the loudest ·      Why firms need to develop diverse talent rather than simply recruit it from elsewhere ·      What the Women in Finance Charter means and how firms can turn commitments into meaningful action ·      Building professional communities and the story behind SheRocks Business ·      How strengths-based leadership can help people thrive and progress ·      Why empathy, active listening and storytelling will become even more valuable as AI develops ·      The human skills advisers need to continue demonstrating their value ·      Marie’s advice for people beginning their careers in financial planning   This is an open and thoughtful conversation about confidence, representation, leadership and the importance of creating environments in which people can succeed.   Whether you work in wealth management, are developing your career in financial advice, or are interested in how the profession can become more inclusive and human, this episode is well worth a listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Marie Smith
  7. Jun 25

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Emmelia Powell

    Emmelia Powell: Building Trust, Visibility and the Future of Advice  In episode 51 of BWD In the Know, Ellie Corkill hosts the second episode of her mini-series, The Human Side of Wealth Management. Ellie is joined by Emmelia Powell, Financial Adviser, for a conversation on building trust, finding your voice and creating a more personal, human version of financial advice. Emmelia shares her journey into the profession, from starting out in banking to entering financial advice after having three children, completing her exams and building a career that works around both her family and her clients. In this episode, they discuss: Emmelia’s journey into financial advice and how she found a career that fitsWhy financial advice can be such a powerful profession for women and working mumsBuilding trust with clients and why good advice starts with doing the right thingSupporting sports professionals, business owners and younger clientsWhy no two financial plans should ever look the sameThe role of empathy, patience and lived experience in client relationshipsBuilding a personal brand and the value of being visible onlineHow AI and technology are changing the advice professionWhat the next generation of advisers need to succeedWhy the future of advice needs to be more human, relatable and personal This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about trust, visibility, motherhood, client relationships and the realities of building a career in financial advice.   Whether you work in wealth management, are building a career in advice, or are interested in how the profession can continue to evolve, this episode is well worth a listen.   Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emmelia Powell and the episode’s focus on the human side of wealth management 02:45 Emmelia’s background and why she transitioned into financial advice 03:10 Balancing career growth and family life in wealth management 04:46 Internal narratives and challenges faced by women entering the industry 05:34 Experiences shaping Emmelia into her current advising style 06:55 Embracing continuous exploration and innovation in financial advice 07:22 Challenging industry stereotypes and traditional client approaches 09:10 How Emmelia’s client-centric philosophy influences her niche focus on sports professionals 10:04 Benefits of niche specialisation and understanding client nuances 12:31 Differentiating client approaches based on individual needs and circumstances 15:22 Insights into working with athletes, timing of advice, and financial planning nuances 17:36 The importance of early financial education and behaviour in wealth management 19:56 Personalisation, emotional anchors and why money management is human at its core 23:02 Building trust and openness: creating a safe environment for clients 24:04 Balancing empathy with challenging clients effectively 26:38 Influences and role models underpinning Emmelia’s professional development 28:44 Building personal brand online, authenticity and sharing your story 33:29 The role of AI in advice: tools, limitations and enhancing client service 36:26 Tips on using AI thoughtfully while maintaining a personal voice 38:23 The future of AI in wealth management and the human touch’s enduring importance 43:11 Soft skills essential for new advisers in a tech-driven landscape 45:00 Making wealth management appealing to the next generation and industry diversity 52:55 The benefits and challenges of niching: advice for aspiring specialists 56:43 Encouragement for early-career advisers to find their voice and gain visibility 59:58 Key takeaway: the importance of personalised, human-centric financial advice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Human Side of Wealth Management with Emmelia Powell
  8. Jun 17

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Ann-Marie Atkins

    Excellence, Not Perfection with Ann-Marie Atkins In this special 50th episode of BWD In The Know, James is joined by Ann-Marie Atkins, Head of Entrepreneurs at Evelyn Partners, for a conversation about what really sits behind long-term success in financial planning. Known as one of the UK's leading advisers in the entrepreneur and business owner space, Ann-Marie reflects on the experiences, values and lessons that have shaped her career. In this episode, they discuss:Ann-Marie's journey into financial services and the challenges she faced early in her career Confidence, emotional intelligence and communication in adviceWhy excellence matters more than perfectionBuilding trust with clients and professional introducersCollaboration in delivering better outcomesLeadership, mentoring and high-performing teamsAI, technology and the future of adviceThe growing importance of holistic financial planning This episode is a reminder that the best advisers don't simply provide advice — they bring people, expertise and ideas together to help clients make better decisions.   If you're a financial planner, adviser or leader looking to build trust, improve your impact and future-proof your career, this episode is for you. Chapters00:00 Introduction 00:28 Ann-Marie's Journey Into Financial Services 01:23 Building Confidence & Finding Your Voice 03:29 Fairness, Honesty & Authenticity 04:39 Learning Through Mistakes & Self-Reflection 05:42 Overcoming Fear & High-Stakes Situations 06:42 Understanding Your Core Values 08:36 Childhood Influences, Ambition & Competitiveness 09:16 Sport, Teamwork & Resilience 09:59 Being Taken Seriously in Financial Services 11:24 Mentors, Role Models & Career Development 13:19 Early Leadership Lessons 14:33 Managing Mistakes & High Standards 16:54 Why Collaboration Matters 17:42 Delivering Better Outcomes for Complex Clients 21:29 The Problem with Siloed Advice 24:28 The Risks of Disconnected Planning 27:11 Building Trust Over Time 28:44 Creating High-Performing Teams 30:28 A Client-First Culture 31:35 Excellence, Not Perfection 35:52 AI, Technology & The Future of Advice 44:17 The Future of Collaborative Advice 50:53 Authenticity as a Competitive Advantage 66:14 Closing Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Future Fit Financial Planning: In Conversation with Ann-Marie Atkins

About

Join us for expert interviews, engaging panel discussions, and recruitment insights. Listeners can expect to gain a deeper understanding of market trends, hear real-life success stories, and get practical advice on navigating the job market. "Offering a unique and dynamic platform for professionals in the financial services industry, our podcast aims to foster meaningful conversations, share valuable knowledge, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth in the ever-evolving financial services sector." - James Walker, Managing Director | BWD. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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