WealthTalk - money, wealth and personal finance.

Kevin Whelan and Christian Rodwell

Would you like to be completely financially independent? Tune in each week to the WealthBuilders podcast hosted by Kevin Whelan & Christian Rodwell. WealthBuilders provides a proven step by step process to help our members create, build and protect their wealth by focusing on growing their assets through education, support and connections. Join our community for free at www.wealthbuilders.co.uk/membership

  1. 5D AGO

    Member Spotlight: Tom Johnson on Achieving Financial Independence

    Key Topics Covered:   1. Starting Point: Mindset and Motivation Tom’s journey was sparked by personal catalysts: his mother’s passing and a desire to be present for his young daughters.The importance of defining your “why” and setting clear financial milestones.Facing the reality of relying solely on a job for income—and using that as motivation for change.2. Laying the Foundations and Building Pillars Tom and his wife began by securing wills, powers of attorney, and reviewing their finances to ensure a solid foundation (“the roof”).They chose property as their initial wealth-building pillar, focusing on buy-to-let for simplicity and sustainability.The process took time—over 12–18 months for their first deal—but commitment and clarity paid off.3. Momentum and the Power of Repetition The first property was the hardest, but each subsequent deal became easier as confidence and experience grew.Tom now owns 15 properties, primarily in the Bristol area, and has diversified into investments and other wealth pillars.Monthly recurring income from assets reached £6,000+, providing true freedom of choice.4. The Role of Coaching and Community Tom credits his WealthBuilders coaches (especially Ian Halfpenny) for challenging his assumptions, providing guidance, and keeping him accountable.Support from family, coaches, and the WealthBuilders community was crucial—especially during setbacks like the pandemic.Taking massive action, even when uncomfortable, was key to overcoming obstacles and building momentum.5. Looking Ahead: Diversification and Giving Back With financial independence achieved, Tom is now exploring more advanced property projects and investment strategies.He’s passionate about sharing his experience and encouraging others to take consistent action—one step every month.  Actionable Takeaways: Commit to the process and focus on one strategy until you gain traction.Secure your financial “roof” (wills, powers of attorney, expense review) before building assets.Don’t underestimate the value of coaching, community, and accountability.Take one small action every month—compound progress leads to big results.Diversify your income streams once you’ve built a secure base.Don’t DIY your wealth journey—get support and don’t give up when it gets tough.  Resources & Next Steps: Book a Financial GPS Call for a personal financial strategy session.WealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityDownload our FREE Pensions and Inheritance Tax GuideConnect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    45 min
  2. 12/17/2025

    How To Create A Portfolio Of Property With A Single Pot Of Money

    Key Topics Covered: 1. Why BRR Matters Most investors run out of cash before they run out of ambition.BRR is not just a “strategy”—it’s a way to keep growing your portfolio with limited resources.Works for residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties.2. The Seven Steps to BRR Success Target properties others avoid (those with problems lenders won’t touch).Calculate your offer: future value minus costs and a 20% margin.Make fair offers—don’t be afraid to go below asking price.Expect and embrace rejection; it’s part of the process.Follow up with rejected offers—motivation changes over time.Secure finance, fix the property, and add value.Refinance at the new value to pull out as much cash as possible.3. Creative Financing & Bridging Loans Bridging finance lets you buy and refurb properties that need work, even if you don’t have all the cash upfront.Build the cost of bridging into your deal—if the numbers work, it’s worth it.Always take longer terms than you think you’ll need to avoid penalties.4. Avoiding Common Mistakes Don’t get attached to asking prices; base your offers on solid calculations.Provide clear evidence of tangible improvements to valuers for successful refinancing.Plan for potential overruns and down valuations.5. Market Insights & Mindset Despite higher interest rates and tougher legislation, rents have risen and BRR still works if you buy right.The property market is seeing a “changing of the guard”—new investors are entering as older landlords exit.Success comes from thinking differently and being willing to do what others won’t.6. Advanced Tactics: Delayed Completion & Ninja Investors “Exchange with delayed completion” lets you refurb before you own, sometimes pulling your cash out on day one.Ninja investors operate under the radar, focusing on creative deals and properties most ignore. Actionable Takeaways Focus on properties with problems you know how to solve.Always run your own numbers and stick to fair, calculated offers.Use creative finance and networking to keep growing—even when cash is tight.Embrace rejection and follow up—motivation changes.Learn from experienced mentors and surround yourself with like-minded investors. Resources & Next Steps: Buy, Refurb, Refinance - Guides, workshops, and advanced trainingProperty Chats free networking events — no speakers, no pitches, just real conversationsWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityDownload our FREE Pensions and Inheritance Tax GuideConnect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.   Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    53 min
  3. 12/10/2025

    What the 2025 Autumn Budget Really Means for Wealth Builders

    Key Topics Covered: 1. Budget Headlines & Tax Changes More taxes on recurring income, dividends, and savingsBusiness owners face higher dividend charges and new limits on passing businesses to heirsEmployee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) and Business Property Relief (BPR) now have stricter tax limits2. Impact on Pensions & Investments State Pension increase staysLimit on salary sacrifice for pensionsLower Cash Individual Savings Account [ISA] limits for under 65sHigher taxes on investment products3. Practical Advice for Wealth Builders Diversify across the “seven pillars of wealth” and focus on recurring, controllable incomeUse tax-advantaged structures (like SSAS pensions) and keep an eye on changing rulesPay close attention to recurring expenses, tax, fees, and debts – control what you can4. Action Steps & Tools Don’t get overwhelmed – take small, regular actions each monthUse WealthBuilders’ free budget guide, calculators, and resources for clarityExecutors now have 15 months (instead of 6) to report pensions for inheritance tax, but tax is still due in 6 months – plan aheadActionable Takeaways Review how the new budget changes affect your income, business, and retirement plansMake use of tax reliefs and allowances while they last, especially if you’re a business ownerStay proactive: download guides, use calculators, and get advice tailored to your situationDon’t let complexity stop you – small, consistent steps lead to more control and certainty  Resources & Next Steps Access our WealthBuilders' Autumn Budget Report 2025Check your State Pension forecastCalculate your Inheritance Tax Bill - Free Online CalculatorDownload our FREE Pensions and Inheritance Tax GuideWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityConnect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    29 min
  4. 12/04/2025

    Why Senior Executives Are Turning to Portfolio Careers for Freedom and Fulfilment

    Key Topics Covered: 1. Why Executives Choose Portfolio Careers Many senior leaders leave corporate jobs for more control, flexibility, and purpose.Becoming a non-executive director (NED) lets them advise several businesses, stay intellectually engaged, and build multiple income streams.2. What a Non-Executive Director Actually Does NEDs guide and support business owners, using their experience and networks to help smaller companies grow.Typical NEDs are former CEOs, directors, or C-suite leaders who want to keep working, but on their own terms.3. Adrian’s Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneur Adrian left a high-level tech role to help executives move into business ownership.He built and acquired several companies, faced personal and business setbacks, and ultimately found new direction after a major life shift.4. Overcoming Identity and Timing Challenges Leaving a big job can trigger a loss of identity; Adrian stresses the importance of recognising your own value and skills.Timing your transition is key—look for inflection points like changes at work, financial readiness, or life events.5. How to Start Your Own Portfolio Career Adrian recommends a three-phase roadmap:Clarify your value and how you’re seen (positioning)Tap into your existing network for opportunitiesBuild new connections aligned with your goalsLinkedIn is powerful, but most executives underuse it—focus on connecting, not selling.6. The Wealth-Building Benefits NED roles create time for other wealth-building activities, like property or investing.Some coaches and NEDs eventually take equity stakes in businesses, building long-term wealth and influence.  Actionable Takeaways: Consider a portfolio career if you want more freedom, less risk, and a chance to use your experience in new ways.Prepare for the identity shift and plan your timing and finances.Use your network and be proactive—opportunities often come from people you already know.Don’t be afraid to reach out for guidance or support.  Resources: Leverage Your Corporate Experience to Secure Paid SME Board RolesDownload the Pension and Inheritance Tax GuideWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and community  Connect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.  Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    39 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    2027 Inheritance Tax & Pensions Shake Up: Everything You Need to Know

    Key Topics Covered: 1. What Changes in April 2027 Unused pensions will count towards inheritance tax.Anything above the tax-free limit may be taxed at 40%.More families will be affected due to frozen allowances.2. Executors, Lost Pensions and Hidden Traps New burdens and risks for executors who must locate and report all pensions.The scale of “lost pensions” and how to track them down.When to consider consolidating multiple pots and when to seek advice.3. Income vs Capital and Smart Gifting IHT as a tax on capital, not income.Annual allowances, the 7‑year rule and “gifts with reservation”.How gifts out of surplus income can be unlimited and IHT‑free if well documented.4. Pensions, Annuities and Who’s Affected Which pensions are not treated as capital (state, final salary, annuities).Which are caught by the new rules (personal pensions, SIPPs, SSAS, DC workplace schemes).Pros and cons of using annuities to swap capital for income.5. SSAS Pensions and Multi‑Generational Planning What a SSAS is and who can qualify (limited company owners).Using SSAS to consolidate pots, invest entrepreneurially and involve adult children.Strategies like contributions for children, earmarking and loanback to shift value down the bloodline.6. Life Cover, Wills and the Family Wealth Fortress Why life insurance should be written in trust to avoid swelling your estate.Using whole‑of‑life, second‑death cover to fund an inevitable IHT bill.The basics everyone should have in place: will, LPAs, and an annual “estate stock take”. Actionable Takeaways: Assume the 2027 rules will affect you if you have pensions and other assets – start planning now.Calculate your current estate and repeat annually to see how close you are to IHT thresholds.Trace and tidy up old pensions; don’t leave a mess for your executors.Learn the difference between gifting capital and gifting surplus income – and document income gifts carefully.Review life cover and trusts; consider SSAS if you’re a business owner wanting to build and pass on wealth efficiently. Resources & Next Steps: Join the Waitlist and Get Your Free Inheritance Tax & Pensions Guide - Be the first to receive this essential guide as soon as it's readyWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and community Connect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    1h 15m
  6. 11/19/2025

    Creating Community and Cashflow: The Story Behind Girls in Property with Athena Dobson

    Key Topics Covered: 1. From Furlough to Property Freedom How COVID and furlough ended Athena’s high‑performing travel career overnight.Using that pause to ask, “Is this the life I want for the next 5–10 years?”Buying her first flat in Bournemouth, getting the numbers wrong, and why she still calls it her “baby” and best teacher.2. Rent‑to‑Rent, Burnout and Pivoting Strategy Moving into rent‑to‑rent HMOs and serviced accommodation to generate cashflow.The reality of late‑night calls, guest issues and stress – including the Sunday night window incident.Handing back all rent‑to‑rent properties and feeling as free returning the keys as when she first got them.Pivoting to simpler, long‑term strategies: buy‑to‑lets and buy–refurbish–refinance, with flips and land development as future options.3. Building Girls in Property: Community, Recurring Income and Support Walking into a networking room of 45 people with only three women and thinking, “That’s a shame.”Finding no UK‑based female property networks or podcasts, then launching Girls in Property in 2023.Growing from a passion project that made no money for over a year into:A sponsored weekly podcast.A £30/month online membership (two live calls a month: “prosperity” and property strategy).A national community hosted on Circle, plus summer/winter parties and an annual training event.How Girls in Property now replaces and exceeds her old salary as a recurring revenue stream.4. Education, Strategy Choice and Market Opportunities “Don’t rush to buy a course”: only invest if you can implement from day one.Use free education first (podcasts, YouTube, books) and do due diligence on paid training.Choosing strategy based on four resources: knowledge, money, time, energy – plus personality and end goal.Example of a mentee who came for rent‑to‑rent but was better suited to partnering with an investor on flips.Why today’s market, with older landlords exiting, offers opportunities if you talk to people and build relationships with agents.5. Health, Wealth and Your Own Version of Success Athena’s view of financial freedom as choice – the ability to respond to life, travel and allocate time where it matters.Burning out twice and realising “health is wealth” – long‑term wealth is pointless if you destroy yourself getting there.Her guiding question: “What does your version of success look like – and who’s standing next to you on that hill?”Current focus: simplifying businesses, building cashflow and wealth, and aiming to be retired by 50 with businesses that don’t rely on her daily presence.Actionable Takeaways: Assess your knowledge, money, time and energy before choosing a strategy.Use free education first; only buy courses you’re ready to implement immediately.Document your journey from day one to build trust with future investors and partners.Avoid shiny penny syndrome – simplify down to strategies that fit you and your goals.Protect your health and pace yourself; wealth building is a long‑term game.Resources & Next Steps: Girls in Property Community & MembershipGirls in Property PodcastWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityConnect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    1h 5m
  7. 11/12/2025

    How to Build Freedom Through HMOs — and Why Property Still Matters

    Key Topics Covered: 1. Mike’s Journey: From Corporate to Property Freedom Why Mike left a successful retail career for more control and family time.How a nudge from Kevin Whelan led to financial independence through HMOs.Building a business and legacy with his wife Claire and daughter Katie.2. Why Property Still Matters Property as a long-term investment: realistic 8–10% cash returns plus asset growth.HMOs outperform single buy-to-lets for cashflow and resilience in changing markets.The maturing HMO market: easier entry with ready-made properties and new marketplaces.3. Taking the Leap: Advice for Aspiring HMO Investors Define your financial and lifestyle goals before choosing the HMO route.Research HMO models (young professionals, students, etc.) and build your local power team.Action is key—most successful investors wish they’d started sooner.4. Building HMO X: An Ecosystem for HMO Success HMO X supports investors at every stage: learning, buying, operating, scaling, and exiting.Bronze and Silver subscriptions tailored to experience levels with access to expert support, estate agency, and the UK’s first HMO auction house.Community, mentoring, compliance guidance, and a world-class power team.5. Compliance, Regulation, and Business Mindset Navigating new regulations like the Renters’ Rights Act and staying systemised.Why running property as a business maximises profits and protects tenants.Leveraging your professional background for property success.6. Wealth Building, Legacy & Diversification Using a SSAS pension to diversify and strengthen family wealth.The importance of holistic planning: recurring income, multiple pillars, and protection (wills, powers of attorney, insurance).Knowledge transfer—teaching the next generation to build and protect wealth.7. Overcoming Barriers & The Power of Community The value of support networks, mentorship, and learning from those who’ve “been there.”Why community and accountability increase your odds of success.Real-life case studies and five-star reviews as social proof.8. Practical Tips & Offers for Listeners HMO X offers a 10% discount on annual subscriptions for WealthBuilders members.Free initial chat for anyone exploring HMOs as a new pillar, mention you’re a WealthBuilder.Leverage frameworks, community, and expert support to accelerate your journey.  Actionable Takeaways: Think Long-Term: Property success comes from time in the market, not timing the market.Be Patient: Real wealth builds over 10, 15, even 20 years of holding strong assets.Aim for Steady Returns: Expect around 8–10% cash return on day one, with capital growth compounding over time.Hold for Growth: Retaining your property allows its value to appreciate significantly.Avoid Shortcuts: This isn’t a quick-win strategy—discipline and strategy drive lasting success.Stay Strategic: Plan your portfolio carefully and review it regularly to stay aligned with your goals.  Resources & Next Steps: HMO X - HMO Expertise all in one placePlatinum Property Partners - Build your own successful and profitable property businessWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityConnect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    48 min
  8. 11/05/2025

    Is Property Losing Its Shine? The Rise of Smart, Passive Investing

    Key Topics Covered: 1. The Shift Away from Property Why more investors are moving away from buy-to-let and traditional property strategiesImpact of rising interest rates, Section 24 tax changes, and new regulationsProperty returns: 39% growth in 10 years vs. 242% for stocks2. Is Property Still Worth It? Existing landlords with long-held properties may still see decent cash flowNew investors face higher barriers: stamp duty, mortgage rates, low yieldsThe myth of property as a “pension” is fading—returns are often below inflation3. Smart Investing Fundamentals The two essential ingredients for any investment: growth (above inflation) and incomeThe importance of passivity, tax efficiency, and protectionDiversification across asset classes and within each class is key4. The Rise of Passive & Diversified Investing Stocks and global funds have outperformed property in recent yearsHow to generate income through dividends, REITs, and optionsManaging volatility: why long-term, balanced portfolios win5. Gold, Bonds, and Defensive Assets Gold as a hedge: how and why it works, especially in turbulent timesThe role of ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) for low-cost, tax-efficient exposureRethinking traditional “more bonds as you age” advice—modern portfolios are more flexible6. Tax Efficiency & Fees Use ISAs, pensions (SIPPs/SSAS), and tax wrappers to prevent “leakage”Watch out for high fund fees—target TERs below 0.2% to keep more of your gains7. Mindset, Control, and Personalisation The illusion of control in property vs. the flexibility of passive investingAdapting your plan to your age, risk profile, and life stage—no one-size-fits-allWhy education and ongoing learning are non-negotiable for wealth building8. Actionable Strategies for Wealth Builders Don’t knee-jerk: avoid emotional decisions or chasing trendsFocus on recurring income and security, not just asset valuesRegularly review and adjust your plan as markets and personal circumstances change  Actionable Takeaways: Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t rely solely on property—blend stocks, gold, REITs, and other assets.Prioritise Tax Efficiency: Use ISAs, pensions, and low-fee funds to maximise your returns.Think Passive: The less hands-on management, the more flexibility and freedom you’ll enjoy.Educate Yourself: Invest time upfront to set up your investments right—this pays off for decades.Review Regularly: Markets and regulations change—revisit your plan and allocations at least annually.Avoid FOMO: Make decisions based on your goals and risk profile, not market hype or fear.  Resources & Next Steps: Invest Like a Pro: Weekly investment insights and courses from Manish KatariaWealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and communityThe Biggest Pension & Inheritance Tax Shake Up Ever! Are You Ready? - FREE Live WebinarShadowStats: Alternative inflation data and analysisETF Basics: Look for diversified, global ETFs with TERs below 0.2% for passive, cost-effective investing  Connect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.   Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuilders  If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

    53 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Would you like to be completely financially independent? Tune in each week to the WealthBuilders podcast hosted by Kevin Whelan & Christian Rodwell. WealthBuilders provides a proven step by step process to help our members create, build and protect their wealth by focusing on growing their assets through education, support and connections. Join our community for free at www.wealthbuilders.co.uk/membership

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