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.
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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.
AI will not increase your business value. It will protect it.
In the second episode the Future Fit Financial Planning series, James is joined by Vicky Hicks, Co-Founder of Melo, for an honest conversation about business value, identity, leadership and the realities of today’s M&A market.
Vicky shares her journey of building and selling a firm, the personal identity shift that followed, and the lessons she learned about value creation, culture and operational discipline. She offers a rare, candid look at what is really happening in the M&A landscape; from price pressure to what buyers now expect from advice firms.
They explore how clearer propositions, consistent processes and strong operational foundations protect long-term value, and why technology has become essential infrastructure rather than a differentiator.
In this episode, they cover:
This episode gives owner-managers, advisers and firm leaders a grounded view of where the market is heading — and a reminder that value isn’t created at exit, but in the everyday.
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Is the role of the Financial Planner about to change?#
In the first episode of the Future Fit Financial Planning series, our host James Walker is joined by Tom Francis of Octopus Money to explore what the next stage of advice might really look like.
They discuss how technology and behavioural psychology are reshaping personal finance, why so many people struggle to act on good financial advice, and how scalable, tech-enabled models could help millions make better money decisions. With a clear mission to reach 5 million people and a willingness to share their thinking openly, this conversation offers a powerful glimpse into the future of the profession.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’re a financial adviser, advice firm leader, or anyone interested in the future of financial planning, this episode is for you.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction & Tom’s Background
09:00 Making Financial Advice Accessible
18:30 Technology, Algorithms & Real Life
27:30 Behavioural Psychology & Inertia
35:45 The Limits of Traditional Financial Planning
43:45 Capturing People at the Right Moment
52:30 Money Culture & National Financial Habits
01:01:00 Shiny Objects vs Long-Term Freedom
01:10:15 What Can (and Can’t) Be Changed
01:18:45 Big Numbers, Misconceptions & Wrap-Up
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In this episode of BWD In The Know, guest host Harry McNeill is joined by Paul Hance, a seasoned actuary whose career reflects how leadership, learning, and relationships define success in today’s actuarial profession.
From technical beginnings to leadership roles, Paul shares how continuous learning, humility, and adaptability have shaped his journey. He offers practical insights on navigating setbacks, balancing technical expertise with business skills, and embracing technology and AI as tools for growth.
In Building Relationships, Not Just Models: Paul Hance on the Modern Actuary, they explore:
✅ The blend of technical and business skills actuaries need today
✅ How continuous learning drives professional growth
✅ The role of relationships and communication in leadership
✅ Overcoming setbacks and learning from experience
✅ Embracing technology and AI to stay relevant
An insightful listen for actuaries at every stage, from exams to executive leadership.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Actuarial Profession
02:47 Navigating Early Career Challenges
05:47 The Importance of Continuous Learning
08:34 Transitioning to Leadership Roles
12:00 Building Relationships and Trust
14:42 Balancing Qualifications and Business Skills
17:56 Overcoming Setbacks and Learning from Mistakes
20:44 Current Challenges in the Actuarial Field
23:28 Embracing Technology and AI
26:32 Advice for Aspiring Actuaries
29:31 Working Your Way Out of a Job
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In this episode of BWD In The Know, guest host Harry McNeill is joined by Gerrit Marais, an actuary whose career spans continents, from South Africa to Canada.
Gerrit shares how curiosity, connection, and continuous learning have shaped his professional journey, and why building relationships can be just as important as mastering technical skills.
In Building Networks, Not Just Numbers: An Actuarial Journey with Gerrit Marais, we discuss:
✅ The power of networking & relationship-building
✅ Why mentorship matters more than ever
✅ Balancing work, study, and life
✅ Continuous learning & career adaptability
✅ Moving countries — and careers — with purpose
An inspiring listen for actuaries at every stage, from exams to executive roles.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Actuarial Market
03:04 Gerrit's Journey into Actuarial Science
05:54 Navigating Early Career Challenges
08:49 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
11:57 Transitioning to Canada and Career Growth
14:50 Practical Tips for Aspiring Actuaries
17:51 Balancing Work, Study, and Life
20:45 Debunking Myths about Actuarial Careers
23:40 Lifelong Learning and Career Advice
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Beyond Risk: Michelle Young on Reinsurance, Resilience & the Human Side of Actuarial Work
In this episode of BWD In The Know, guest host Harry McNeill is joined by Michelle Young for a conversation that goes beyond risk to uncover the human side of actuarial work.
Michelle reflects on her career in reinsurance and shares why actuaries are far more than just the numbers. From the societal impact of actuarial decisions to the importance of communication, mentorship, and volunteering, she highlights how resilience and curiosity can shape a fulfilling career.
Along the way, Michelle also explores the role of AI as a supportive tool, the value of embracing uncertainty, and why taking opportunities early can lead to unexpected growth.
A must-listen for actuaries at every stage, from exams to executive leadership.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Actuarial Profession
01:37 Michelle's Journey into Reinsurance
03:12 The Passion for Being an Actuary
04:34 Understanding the Broader Impact of Actuarial Work
06:26 The Societal Impact of Actuarial Decisions
07:34 Volunteering and Its Influence on Professional Growth
09:21 Transitioning from Technical to Strategic Roles
12:47 Actuaries and Uncertainty in Decision Making
14:29 Explaining Actuarial Work to Outsiders
15:31 Actuaries and Climate Change
18:44 The Role of AI in the Actuarial Field
21:34 The Role of Communication in Actuarial Training
24:24 Embracing Growth Through Discomfort
26:28 Exploring the Reinsurance Market
28:26 Navigating Career Paths and Leadership Roles
33:38 Unique Career Journeys and Opportunities
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💡 “He who looks outside dreams, he who looks inside awakens.”
That line came up in my latest In The Know with Anthony Flynn, and it set the tone for one of the most open and vulnerable conversations I’ve had on the podcast.
Anthony spoke not just about career milestones, but about the deeper currents that shape who we are and how we lead.
The conversation explored:
For financial planners and business owners, these themes will feel familiar: imposter syndrome, the pressure to perform, and the quiet question of what’s it all for. All of it is here in this conversation.
👉 If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to take off the professional mask, this is one to listen to or watch via our YouTube Channel.
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From Actuary to Wall Street to Novelist: Mark W. Griffin on Risk, Reinvention & Storytelling
In this episode of BWD In The Know, guest host Harry McNeill is joined by Mark W Griffin for a fascinating conversation that blends actuarial insight with life beyond the spreadsheets.
Mark’s career has been anything but linear; from actuarial science to investment banking on Wall Street, and now to publishing his debut novel The Mortality Thief.
Along the way, he shares lessons in curiosity, mentorship, and leadership, while reflecting on what the 2008 financial crisis taught him about risk, resilience, and reinvention.
For actuaries, consultants, and anyone considering how to make bold career moves, this episode challenges the idea of “traditional” career paths and explores the growing opportunities in areas like AI and climate risk.
It’s a story of numbers, narrative, and the courage to carve your own way.
📖Mark’s book is now available to purchase. Order Your Copy OR Buy on Amazon
Inspired by true events, The Mortality Thief is a razor-sharp and authentic thriller that's ripped from the headlines.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mark's Career Journey
02:46 Transitioning from Actuarial Science to Wall Street
05:47 Navigating the Investment Banking Culture
08:50 Curiosity and Learning in a New Environment
11:42 Leadership Lessons from CRO and CIO Roles
14:35 Reflections on the 2008 Financial Crisis
17:23 The Evolution of Risk Management
20:12 Career Advice for Aspiring Actuaries
23:10 The Importance of Curiosity and Networking
26:11 The Impact of Mentorship on Career Decisions
29:03 Exploring Writing as a New Venture
31:44 The Mortality Thief: Blending Actuarial Themes with Fiction
34:52 Parallels Between Risk Management and Writing
37:38 Defining Success in a New Chapter
40:46 Book Release and Closing Thoughts
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In this episode of BWD In The Know, Harry McNeill is joined by Kim Steiner, Head of North America's Life Practice at WTW, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it really means to build a career in life insurance.
Kim shares her journey from intern to industry leader, reflects on the rise of AI and its real impact on actuarial work, and gives sharp, honest advice for anyone starting in the profession.
From breaking down industry misconceptions to discussing the soft skills that matter most, this is essential listening for actuaries at any stage of their journey.
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In this episode of BWD In The Know, Harry McNeill sits down with Jeffrey Gomes, an actuary-turned-coach based in Canada to explore what it really takes to lead in today's actuarial world.
From starting out during the 2008 financial crisis to embracing the rise of AI, Jeffrey shares hard-earned lessons on resilience, people-first leadership, and unlocking potential through coaching.
Whether you're navigating exams, managing a remote team, or chasing your next promotion, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay the course and grow your impact on your terms.
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From losing his leg in a life-altering accident to becoming a Guinness World Record-holding endurance swimmer, Jonty Warneken has redefined what’s possible; physically, mentally, and professionally.
In this episode, Jonty shares his remarkable journey:
This isn’t just a story about endurance, it’s about mindset, recovery, and choosing to lean into challenge, even when it hurts.
It’s a powerful conversation that will stay with you. I hope you find it as inspiring as I did.
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No Socks (with Crocs) Please, I'm French!
Caroline swapped investment banking for financial planning, bringing a French lens to British money habits, career choices, and yes, fashion faux pas.
In this episode of In The Know, we cover:
If you're considering a career change, this one’s for you.
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“If you want the truth, you need trust.”
That line stayed with me.
In this week’s In The Know podcast, I spoke with Lena Sisco – former military interrogator turned leadership and communication expert – about trust, truth, and how to spot a lie.
She’s spent her career extracting the truth from people who had every reason not to share it. And it turns out the answer isn’t mind games or intimidation. It’s connection.
As AI removes the humdrum parts of our jobs, the human stuff – trust, empathy, communication – becomes even more important.
Lena’s view?
🧠 Be honest in your communication
🔁 Be consistent in your actions
🙋♂️ Be accountable for your mistakes
In an era of deepfakes and digital doubt, that advice feels pretty timeless.
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Less admin, more advice – AI without the hype. That’s the vision. But how do you actually get there?
In this episode, James speaks with Oren Henry, Co-Founder of AutoAdvise, about how financial advisers can use AI to reduce admin and improve client outcomes. They explore where firms are losing time, the risks of misusing ChatGPT-style tools, and what being truly ‘AI-ready’ looks like in practice.
What's Covered:
If you’re exploring AI but don’t want the fluff, this one’s for you.
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Once dubbed “The City’s Superwoman”, Nicola Horlick’s story isn’t just about finance. It’s about leadership in all its complexity.
From billion-pound turnarounds and public scandal to raising six children, navigating personal tragedy and building again - Nicola’s journey covers it all.
She shares her story openly, with the hope it inspires more women to lead in their own way.
We spoke about vision, loyalty, imposter syndrome, and what it really takes to lead through chaos in business and in life.
This one stayed with me. Hope it does the same for you.
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Is Financial Planning Dying?
That’s what I asked Tom Hegarty in the latest episode of In The Know - a follow-up to the post that sparked so much debate.
We covered:
📉 Adviser numbers – real growth, or just a pause before the cliff edge?
🔁 Why firms keep hiring experience but won’t back new talent
🧱 The power of apprenticeships and why more firms must engage
💬 How to shift short-term mindsets in firm leadership
🪄 And Tom’s magic wand moment
Do you agree with Tom? Are you as optimistic or is this just the beginning of the end?
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The Recruitment Industry’s Biggest Lie - And Why Clients Keep Falling for It
Recruitment has been running on fumes for years. The contingent model dominates, yet it delivers an 80% chance of wasted time.
Louise Archer and I dug into why the industry clings to it, despite better alternatives.
Some key takeaways:
Thanks to Louise for a great conversation!
So, is it time to stop treating recruitment like a gamble?
#Recruitment #RetainedSearch #TalentAcquisition #Hiring
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It was a privilege to host Jeff Lange, Group CEO of TFAS Enterprises, on the podcast. Jeff shared fascinating insights into the evolving financial advice sector, the role of technology, and the future of client engagement. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:
💻 Remote advice is thriving
Face-to-face isn’t the only way. Remote advice, driven by trust and tech, is now the choice for even high-net-worth clients.
🌍 Bridging the advice gap
Streamlined processes and digital tools are making advice accessible to clients at all asset levels.
🤖 AI in action
From automating meeting summaries to compliance checks, AI is revolutionising how advice is delivered.
🔄 Future-proofing with flexibility
Combining traditional face-to-face advice with digital services ensures no client is left behind.
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The Trilogy Nobody Thought Would Happen
“All good things must come to an end”—and so does the final episode of our podcast series with the brilliant Dave Robinson.
This time, we cover plenty of ground, including:
1️⃣ Regrets on LinkedIn?
Dave’s outspoken views have sparked debates, drawn praise, and even got him blocked! But does he regret any of it? His answer (and reasoning) is refreshingly honest.
2️⃣ Thoughts on the CII
Dave doesn’t hold back as we discuss the role of professional bodies and how the financial advice sector could raise its standards.
3️⃣ The Case for Internal Succession
Our main focus: Why internal succession is the key to long-term sustainability for firms, and how to navigate this complex process effectively.
📘 Valuable Resource: Dave is generously sharing his Comprehensive Guide to Internal Succession, a must-read for any Principal planning their next steps.
A huge thank you to Dave for his time, insights, and willingness to answer any question I threw at him.
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"Talking with Archana was genuinely inspiring and thought-provoking. Her insights brought a fresh perspective on what leadership truly means, especially in today’s rapidly changing world." - James Walker
In this episode, we unpacked:
Archana also shared insights from her upcoming book, The Through Line, which delves deeper into how storytelling, curiosity, and openness can transform both leadership and personal growth. Her reflections offer essential guidance for leaders committed to building meaningful connections.
Tune in to explore these themes and more in what was a truly fascinating conversation.
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🚨 Alert: "Businesses must start transitioning to be data-led, or they risk becoming irrelevant. Those who fail to integrate data into their operations will fall behind as the industry evolves. It’s not just about compliance or efficiency anymore – it’s about survival."
In this insightful episode, I sit down with Poppy Achilles to discuss three critical pillars for the future of UK financial planning:
If you're a business leader thinking about how to stay ahead in the financial services industry, this episode is a must-listen!
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