In this episode of the Financial Planner Life Podcast, we’re joined by Marnel Stafford, a financial planner at Foster Denovo, who shares her remarkable story of pivoting into the profession at 50 and making waves in her first year.

💬 "Starting at 50 might seem late to some, but for me, it was the perfect time. My life experience became my greatest strength."

Marnel talks candidly about her journey—why she decided to make the leap, the challenges she faced, and how she’s already on track to hit £400k in her first year. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the value of building strong client relationships.

💬 "Clients don’t just want technical knowledge; they want someone who understands their lives. That’s where experience comes in."

Key takeaways from this episode include:

• Why it’s never too late to start a new career: Marnel explains how her age became an asset, helping her connect with clients on a deeper level.
• The mindset for rapid success: She shares how focusing on intentional actions, like building trust and delivering exceptional value, made all the difference.
• Turning challenges into opportunities: Marnel reflects on overcoming self-doubt and using her past experiences to build credibility and confidence.

💬 "It’s not about your age—it’s about showing up, being present, and genuinely caring about the people you serve."

Whether you’re considering a career in financial planning or seeking inspiration for your own journey, Marnel’s story proves that success knows no age limits.

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

Laura North, a former college lecturer with 16 years of experience, shares her incredible journey of moving from the classroom to becoming a successful financial planner. Discover how she navigated this life-altering transition, leveraging her teaching skills in a whole new way. Laura's story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone contemplating a career switch, revealing the intricacies of reshaping professional goals and the courage it takes to follow one's passion.

Throughout our chat, Laura opens up about the role of the St James's Place Academy in her transformation, providing invaluable support and guidance. Her narrative shines a light on the unique opportunities within financial planning, particularly for women, and how educators can utilize their skill set to thrive in this industry. We also delve into the balance between personal and professional life, highlighting the significance of building a supportive network and fostering genuine connections.

We explore the art of networking and the power of genuine curiosity in forming meaningful relationships. Laura emphasizes the importance of being part of a strong community and how these connections not only enriched her career but also her life. Her approach to financial planning is centered around education and trust, offering a fresh perspective on how to engage with clients. This episode is packed with insights and encouragement for anyone looking to embark on a new professional journey.

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

"Imagine starting over in a new country, grappling with a new language, and breaking into a competitive industry. This is Cholpan Djanuzakova's reality.

Her journey from Kyrgyzstan to becoming a top financial adviser and business owner in the UK is a testament to the incredible things you can achieve when you turn your challenges into stepping stones. Tune in as Cholpan shares the secrets to her success and how she uses her cultural heritage to make unforgettable connections in the financial world.

Join host Sam Oakes as he and Cholpan delve into how embracing personal heritage and overcoming adversity can dramatically shape your professional path. Cholpan's story isn’t just about overcoming hurdles; it's about transforming them into opportunities to rise and stand out, especially in financial planning.

Learn about her early years in Kyrgyzstan, her adventurous move to the UK, and the challenges of language and cultural assimilation she faced. Discover how she uses the Komuz, a national instrument, at networking events to create lasting impressions and how this unique approach has carved a niche for her in the financial industry. Cholpan’s journey is a powerful reminder of the role of resilience and perseverance in achieving professional recognition and success.

Gain actionable insights on using your uniqueness to captivate and grow a client base, and get inspired by her innovative networking strategies that blend tradition with modern business practices to stand out.

Don’t miss out on more inspiring tales like Cholpan’s—subscribe now! Follow us on LinkedIn for updates and discussions on turning personal trials into professional triumphs. If Cholpan’s story has inspired you, or if you’re looking to make your own unique mark in your career, reach out to us; we’re always looking to spotlight unique journeys in financial planning."

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

🤔 Are Paraplanning Managers Holding Back Trainee Financial Planners?

Not at Foster Denovo, where growth, ambition, and clear career aspirations take center stage. In the latest Financial Planner Life Podcast, I spoke with Louise Headifen, Paraplanning Manager at Foster Denovo, about how she’s breaking the mold and championing career progression for her team of 15. Whether it’s becoming a financial adviser, developing a specialist career in paraplanning, or exploring other paths, Louise and Foster Denovo’s career framework have it covered.

🎙 Key Takeaway:
"If you tell me in the interview you want to become a financial adviser, I’ll do everything I can to make it happen. Progression is about honesty, ambition, and having the right support system." - Louise Headifen

We dive into:
✅ Why Louise hires for skills over job titles to build strong, cohesive teams.
✅ Clear pathways for paraplanners to grow, from junior roles to subject matter experts in areas like protection and estate planning.
✅ How Foster Denovo actively supports paraplanners who aspire to transition into financial advice roles.
✅ The power of a growth mindset and how collaboration fuels success.

Whether you’re a paraplanner looking for your next opportunity, a financial adviser exploring new horizons, or someone considering a career in financial planning, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.

👉 Tune in now and discover how Louise’s leadership and Foster Denovo’s framework are empowering financial planning professionals to thrive at every stage of their careers.

💬 What’s your career aspiration in financial planning? Let’s discuss in the comments!

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

Chris Ball interviews Duncan Kreeger and Stephen Wasserman, the dynamic duo behind West One Loans and now TAB, in this fascinating episode of Financial Planner Life.

Duncan and Stephen share their journey from a single desk in Duncan’s dad’s office to scaling £2.5 billion in lending. They also dive into how they’re reinventing property finance with TAB, leveraging technology and AI to build smarter, faster, and more ethical lending processes.

You’ll learn about:

• The origins of West One Loans
• Scaling to billions in lending during the 2008 financial crisis
• The challenges and rewards of mixing friendship with business
• Why belief and confidence are the keys to success
• How TAB is transforming property finance

If you’re curious about entrepreneurship, innovation, or financial services, this episode is packed with value.

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

Financial planners, prepare to embark on a journey with our special guest, Peter Komolafe from the Conversation of Money, as we explore the dynamic world of financial coaching and content creation!

Discover the evolution from static "how-to" guides to vibrant discussions on economic trends and financial news, as Peter sheds light on the relentless dedication required to thrive in this ever-changing industry. Learn how adapting to audience preferences is not just a luxury but a necessity to maintain relevance and engagement in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

We also tackle the intergenerational financial knowledge gap, focusing on those nearing retirement. Peter and I discuss how social media platforms like YouTube can be powerful tools for Financial planners to educate and establish trust. By addressing common concerns about retirement planning and financial management, Financial Planners can position themselves as credible sources while effectively generating leads. The conversation reveals the exciting potential for collaborations and lifestyle enhancements, especially for expats navigating their financial futures.

Finally, join us as we explore the shifting financial mindset among younger generations, who are increasingly drawn to entrepreneurial ventures over traditional careers.

We delve into the transformative power of defining personal goals, with Peter sharing insights on the advantages of being a financial planner or coach in a vibrant location like Dubai. Learn about the unique opportunities it presents, from tax benefits to global client reach, and the importance of pen and paper in crystallizing future aspirations. This episode promises a wealth of insights for those ready to redefine their financial paths.

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Chris Ball, CEO of Hoxton Wealth, interviews David Kneeshaw, Group Chief Executive of International Financial Group Limited (IFGL). With over two decades of experience in financial services and leadership roles, David shares his insights on career development, building resilient teams, and strategies for growth in the international financial landscape.

Career Journey & Leadership Philosophy
David’s path has taken him from Times Newspapers, where he worked with Rupert Murdoch, to becoming a marketing director at Swiss Life and ultimately the CEO of IFGL, managing over £20 billion in assets under advice. He emphasizes the importance of structured, objective decision-making and maintaining a client-centered approach, saying, “If you care about what you do and people see that, they’ll forgive you quite a lot.”

Key Insights on Team Building
David believes in hiring based on attitude and intelligence, underscoring the need for leaders who can communicate and collaborate effectively. His advice to young professionals is to “choose your boss wisely,” as early mentorship profoundly shapes career growth. He’s built his own team on these values, creating a culture where long-term loyalty and growth are prioritized.

Navigating Private Equity & International Growth
David discusses the challenges and rewards of IFGL’s management buyout from Royal London, highlighting the importance of aligning with investors who share the company’s values and vision. He also explores IFGL’s expansion into new regions and the vital role of technology in delivering efficient, client-focused services. According to David, technology is essential in today’s financial services to ensure seamless service and maintain a competitive edge.

This episode is rich with advice for aspiring leaders in financial services, offering lessons in leadership, adaptability, and strategic growth. David’s practical insights on leadership, team-building, and navigating private equity make this a must-listen for those looking to grow in the financial industry.

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.

Ever wondered what it takes to successfully transition from product sales to holistic financial planning? Today, Financial Planner Life host Sam Oakes sits down with Nikos Christoforou, a Senior Partner at Foster Denovo, to uncover the challenges, mindset shifts, and strategies that can make or break a career in financial planning.

In this episode, Nikos shares his journey from stockbroking and product-focused sales to a values-driven approach in financial planning. Starting as a self-employed advisor, Nikos quickly realized the differences between selling a product and offering comprehensive financial advice. This transformation wasn’t easy, as it required him to unlearn sales tactics and adopt a holistic approach that placed his client’s needs at the forefront.

With insights into the mindset shifts required to build a sustainable client base, Nikos talks candidly about the challenges he faced in his early years and the invaluable support he received from Foster Denovo. He emphasizes that "trust takes ages to build but can be gone in an instant," highlighting the importance of strong foundations and client relationships.

Through a structured "Four Pillars" approach to financial planning, Nikos explains how he educates clients on cash flow, asset optimization, protection planning, and investment management. This framework has helped him gain clarity with clients, leading to stronger relationships and long-term trust. He also shares the impact of niching down with specific client types, such as lawyers and shipbrokers, which has allowed him to master industry-specific needs and streamline his services.

Sam and Nikos also discuss the benefits of working within an ecosystem like Foster Denovo, where mentorship, peer accountability, and support for scaling one’s business are readily available. Nikos stresses the importance of having a robust support network, being disciplined, and investing in personal development to maintain mental resilience in a high-pressure industry.

Whether you’re new to financial planning or looking to deepen your expertise, this episode provides actionable insights for growth, both personally and professionally. Nikos’s experience shows that to succeed in financial planning, it's not just about numbers—it's about building strong foundations, finding the right support, and understanding the real value you bring to clients.

If you’re interested in a career with Foster Denovo click here

Begin your financial planning career journey today

Whether you are looking to become a paraplanner, administrator, mortgage and protection adviser or financial planner, the Financial Planner Life Academy is for you.

With limited entry-level job roles, giving yourself the best financial planning career education, will not only kick start your financial planning journey with relevant qualifications and skills, but it’ll also help you achieve success much faster.&nbs

Be sure to follow financial planner life on YouTube for extra content about a career within Financial Planning HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!

If you're looking to start your career in Financial Planning, check out the Financial Planner Life Academy here

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or career development.