Talk FS

How Mortgage Brokers Scale Their Business with Clarity, Consistency & Creativity | Ash Borland (S2,E14)

How do financial advisers and mortgage brokers build real business growth in today’s competitive market?
In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner is joined by Ash Borland — financial services marketing specialist, sales and business coach — to explore what it really takes to scale an advisory business in the modern digital era.
Ash shares practical insights on building powerful professional communities, overcoming fear of competition, systemising one-person businesses, generating consistent leads, and unlocking the untapped revenue potential of protection. He also introduces his Three C’s Framework: Clarity, Consistency and Creativity — a proven approach to personal branding and marketing for advisers who want sustainable long-term growth.
Whether you’re a self-employed mortgage broker, financial adviser, or business owner looking to scale, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can apply immediately.
Key Topics Covered:
✔️ Building community in financial services
✔️ Overcoming fear of competitors
✔️ The challenges of self-employed advisers
✔️ Why systems must come before scaling
✔️ Scaling problems caused by lack of leads
✔️ The protection opportunity most advisers miss
✔️ Doing right by clients while increasing revenue
✔️ Generating leads through modern marketing
✔️ The Three C’s: Clarity, Consistency & Creativity
Chapters:
00:33 – Introduction
01:25 – The Power of Community in Financial Services
04:36 – Overcoming the Fear of Industry Competition
06:56 – The Challenges of the Self-Employed Advisor
10:43 – Systems Before Scaling
18:48 – The Problem with Scaling Without Leads
21:04 – The Untapped Goldmine: Protection
25:56 – Doing Right by the Client
31:40 – Generating Leads Through Marketing
42:19 – The Three C’s Framework
56:20 – Outro
About Ash Borland: Ash Borland is a Sales and Marketing Coach for mortgage brokers who feel like they’re working harder than ever but not seeing the results they deserve.
His belief is simple: most brokers don’t have a work problem — they have a framework problem. You’re already putting in the effort. What’s missing is a system that turns that effort into consistent leads, loyal clients, and predictable income — without chaos, guesswork, or late-night CRM stress.
Ash helps mortgage brokers simplify their marketing, sharpen their sales process, and build a memorable personal brand that attracts the right clients for the right reasons. His no-fluff frameworks and clear strategies are designed to help advisers build businesses that run smoothly — so they can finally enjoy the life they’ve been working so hard for.
Hard work built your business.
The right framework will scale it.
Connect with Ash Borland:
Website: https://ashborland.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashborland/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ashborland
About Talk FS:
Talk FS is the podcast from Premier Jobs UK, exploring the business, marketing, and growth strategies shaping the financial services industry. Featuring industry leaders, business owners, and innovators, each episode delivers practical insight for advisers and firms looking to stay ahead.
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#TalkFS #MortgageBroker #FinancialAdviser #LeadGeneration #MarketingForBrokers #BusinessScaling #PersonalBranding #ProtectionSales #AshBorland

The Future of Financial Planning: Empathy, SOLLA Accreditation & Client Confidence | Henrietta Grimston (S2, E13)

In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner speaks with Henrietta Grimston, a financial planner dedicated to empowering clients through empathetic and holistic financial advice. Henrietta shares her journey from investment management to financial planning, emphasising the importance of understanding clients' emotional and psychological needs. They discuss the SOLLA accreditation, the necessity of financial education in the UK, and the role of technology in transforming the financial planning industry. Henrietta also highlights the significance of intergenerational wealth transfer and the need for a diverse workforce in financial services. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring financial planners to find their passion in the field.
⏱️ Chapters
01:00 - Introduction: Meet Henrietta Grimston
01:20 - From Investment Management to Financial Planning
03:06 -How an Investment Background Helps Clients Today
04:24 -Why Client Conversations Matter
06:17 -Financial Wellbeing & Breaking the Money Taboo
07:55 -Why Henrietta Chose SOLLA Accreditation
09:57 -What SOLLA Accreditation Really Means for Clients
13:43 -Teaching Young People About Money
18:50 - Encouraging the Next Generation Into Financial Planning
20:59 -Diversity, Representation & the Future Adviser Workforce
22:20 -Career Lessons from Henrietta’s Journey
25:49 -Technology, AI & the Future of Financial Advice
29:40 -Final Advice for Financial Planners
🔗 Henrietta's links:
👉 Staltus — https://www.saltus.co.uk/our-team/henrietta-grimston
👉 FCA — https://register.fca.org.uk/s/individual?id=003b000000LW6MFAA1
👉 LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/henriettagrimston/?originalSubdomain=uk
#FinancialPlanning #FinancialAdviser #SOLLAAccreditation #FinancialWellbeing #ClientConfidence #LaterLifePlanning #FinancialEducation #TalkFSPodcast #WealthManagement

Pete Matthew on Content-Led Growth in Wealth Management (S2, E12)

How do you build a trusted financial-advice brand from scratch — and turn it into a thriving business?
In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner speaks with Pete Matthew, Chartered Financial Planner, CEO of Jackson’s Wealth and founder of Meaningful Money, about turning consistent content into real client growth, bridging the advice gap, and the future of financial services in the UK.
Pete shares:
🔸 Why he started Meaningful Money — to help ordinary people access clear, honest financial education when traditional advice became out of reach.
🔸 The power of showing up consistently: how 15 years of videos, articles and podcasts turned early credit-card debt stories into life-changing outcomes for thousands.
🔸 How content drives business: 85% of new enquiries for Jackson’s now come via Meaningful Money — reshaping what a modern IFA firm looks like.
🔸 Why simplicity, transparency and trust win over complexity — the importance of educating rather than selling.
🔸 How the financial-advice industry is evolving: from traditional IFA models to hybrid advice + education + coaching, and why it matters for client outcomes.
➡️ Whether you’re a financial adviser, paraplanner, content creator — or someone curious about money — this episode gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at building a values-driven finance brand that scales without compromising ethics.
⏱️ Chapters
00:44 — Introduction & Pete’s back-story
02:16 — Building a Legacy
05:04 — Who the Content is For
07:52 — Trends in Audience Questions
10:36 — Are People Overpaying Advisers?
13:15 — Choosing Advice vs DIY
14:25 — The Rise of Financial Coaching
17:29 — Showing Up Online
22:44 — Repeating Topics in Content
25:15 — Repetition Builds Credibility
28:52 — Impact of Content on Growth
36:40 — Turning Away Smaller Clients
39:47 — Meaningful Academy as a Solution
43:06 — Outro
🔗 Useful links
👉 Meaningful Money — https://meaningfulmoney.tv/
👉 Jackson’s Wealth Management — https://jacksons.life/
👉 Meaningful Academy — https://meaningfulacademy.com/
If you enjoy this episode — please **Like**, **Subscribe**, and **Turn On Notifications** to stay up to date with more industry insights from Talk FS.
#TalkFS #MeaningfulMoney #PeteMatthew #FinancialAdviceUK #IFA #PersonalFinance #ContentMarketing #WealthManagement #FinancialWellbeing

From Adviser to AI Innovator: How Tech Will Transform Financial Advice with Chanelle Pattinson (S2, E11)

In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner sits down with Chanelle Pattinson — Associate Research Director at NextWealth, Chartered Financial Planner, fintech innovator, and host of the Her Future Bright podcast.
Chanelle shares her journey from financial advice to the world of tech and AI, giving us a unique insider view on how innovation is reshaping the future of financial services. With experience across advice, startups, product development, and research, Chanelle provides rare insight into where the industry is heading — and what advisers should be preparing for.
Together, Ryan and Chanelle explore the human element of advice, AI adoption trends, adviser tech stacks, client engagement, and the real-world challenges and opportunities presented by new technology.
Whether you're an adviser, paraplanner, business owner, or simply curious about the role of AI in professional services, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
01:10 – Chanelle’s Journey from Financial Advisor to AI Innovator
06:24 – Will AI Replace Advisers?
09:48 – Human Listening vs. AI Tools
11:55 – Introducing the NextWealth AI Lab
15:23 – Ryan’s Own Tech Journey
17:51 – Implementation Challenges
20:30 – What Advisers Rate Most in Tech
22:33 – Innovation in Back-Office & New Players
25:09 – Generational & Attitude Differences
28:16 – Fear of Missing Out Driving AI Adoption
30:11 – Using AI in Everyday Life
31:24 – Chanelle’s Custom GPTs
33:15 – The Security Question
35:25 – The Future of AI
37:20 – A New Era for Advisers
38:56 – Is AI Here to Stay?
39:33 – Closing Thoughts
🔗 Connect with Chanelle:
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanelle-paynter-n%C3%A9e-pattinson-b6064496/
👉 NextWealth Profile: https://nextwealth.co.uk/team-members/chanelle-pattinson/
🎙️ About Talk FS:
Talk FS brings you unfiltered conversations with influential voices across financial services — exploring innovation, careers, technology, leadership, and the future of financial advice.

Why Critical Thinking Will Make You a Better Financial Adviser | Jacqueline Lockie (S2, E10)

In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner interviews Jacqueline Lockie, founder of Lockie Consultants, discussing the critical importance of critical thinking in financial services. Jacqueline emphasises the need for financial professionals to engage their critical thinking skills to better serve clients, navigate their careers, and adapt to technological advancements. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship, the human element in financial planning, and practical advice for aspiring financial professionals.
Takeaways
- Critical thinking is essential for effective client relationships.
- Financial professionals must engage their critical thinking skills regularly.
- Role plays can help test and improve critical thinking abilities.
- Employers value attitude and interpersonal skills over technical knowledge.
- Managing client expectations is crucial in financial planning.
- Technology can assist but should not replace human interaction.
- Self-reflection is key to personal and professional growth.
- Networking is vital for career progression in financial services.
- Reading widely enhances knowledge and critical thinking.
- Mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support.
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
01:07 – Why Critical Thinking Matters
04:00 – Testing Your Critical Thinking
07:15 – Learning Through Feedback
08:30 – Standing Out in Your Career
10:35 – Attitude Over Exams
12:00 – Critical Thinking for Self-Growth
13:40 – Learning vs. Racing Through Exams
18:50 – Handling Feedback & Confidence
25:00 – Finding the Right Mentor
28:16 – Technology & Lazy Thinking
29:45 – AI and the Human Element
36:35 – The Future of Financial Advice
40:30 – Advice for the Next Generation
42:55 – Closing Thoughts
Lockie Consultants: https://www.lockieconsultants.com/
Jacqueline Lockie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-lockie-cfp%E2%84%A2-certified-financial-planner-training-636a3322/?originalSubdomain=uk
 

From Employee to Empowered: Claire's Financial Journey (S2, E9)

In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner interviews Claire Bedswick, a financial planner who shares her inspiring journey from working behind the scenes in finance to becoming a self-employed financial planner. Claire discusses the challenges she faced, including balancing motherhood, self-doubt, and the importance of community support. She emphasizes the need for more women in financial planning and the role of education in empowering clients. Claire also highlights the emotional aspects of client relationships and the significance of mentorship in her career.
Takeaways:
- Claire's journey into financial planning was not traditional, starting from a bank role.
- She emphasises the importance of self-belief and overcoming doubts in pursuing a career.
- Transitioning to self-employment was a significant step for Claire, allowing her to control her destiny.
- Community support and having the right people around you are crucial for success.
- Balancing motherhood and a career in finance requires strong support systems.
- Education is key in financial planning, especially for women.
- Building trust with clients is essential for long-term relationships.
- Navigating the emotional side of client work can be challenging but rewarding.
- Mentorship plays a vital role in career development and confidence building.
- Encouraging more women to enter financial planning is necessary for the industry's growth.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:00 Journey to Financial Planning
03:00 Overcoming Doubts and Building Confidence
05:20 Transitioning to Self-Employment
08:17 The Importance of Values and Community
10:52 Balancing Career and Family Life
12:54 The Drive for Financial Education
16:54 Building Trust with Clients
19:14 Navigating the Emotional Side of Financial Planning
22:09 Encouraging More Women in Finance
23:52 The Role of Mentorship
26:15 Supporting Career Changes in Finance
29:52 The Long-Term View in Financial Planning
33:20 Final Thoughts and Advice
Sound Bites:
"Just believe in yourself."
"Education is so important."
"Say yes to the opportunities."
Clare's Details: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-beswick-dippfs-6106a613/
Slaiyburn: https://www.slaiyburn.co.uk/clare-beswick
#TalkFS #FinancialPlanning #WomenInFinance #SelfEmployedAdviser #CareerChange #IFA #Podcast #PremierJobsUK

The Human Side of Money: Financial Coaching with Simonne Gnessen (S2, E8)

💬 Money isn’t just maths – it’s a mindset.
In this episode of Talk FS, brought to you by Premier Jobs UK, host Ryan Venner sits down with Simonne Gnessen, founder of Wise Monkey Coaching and a leading voice in financial coaching in the UK.
They explore how emotions, habits, and personal history shape our relationship with money — and why financial wellbeing isn’t just about numbers. Simonne shares her journey from financial adviser to coach, the power of behavioural change, and how advisers can use coaching skills to deepen client relationships and build trust.
You’ll also hear her thoughts on AI, technology, and why the human side of money will always matter.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:49 – What is Financial Coaching?
02:43 – Why We Don’t Talk About Money
03:55 – How Childhood Shapes Money Habits
06:27 – The Financial Coaching Journey
09:37 – The Power of Accountability
11:32 – Empowerment Through Coaching
14:44 – From Financial Adviser to Financial Coach
18:59 – Training the Next Generation of Coaches
23:47 – Coaching & Financial Advice Combined
25:57 – AI, Technology & the Future of Advice
30:23 – Final Thoughts: The Mindset of Money
32:52 – Outro & Resources
🔗 Links & Resources:
📘 Simonne Gnessen – Wise Monkey Coaching: https://www.financial-coaching.co.uk/
📖 Book: Sheconomics by Simonne Gnessen and Karen Pine: http://www.sheconomics.com/
🎙 More episodes of Talk FS: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkFS
🌐 Premier Jobs UK: https://www.premierjobsuk.com
💼 IFA Acquisitions: https://www.ifa-acquisitions.co.uk
About Talk FS:
Talk FS is the podcast from Premier Jobs UK, connecting with leaders and innovators across the financial services industry. Each episode dives into key topics shaping advice, recruitment, and business growth — helping advisers, planners, and firms thrive in a changing market.
#TalkFS #FinancialCoaching #SimonneGnessen #WiseMonkeyCoaching #PremierJobsUK #FinancialAdvisers #FinancialWellbeing #MoneyMindset #BehaviouralFinance #FinancialAdvicePodcast #IFA #financialplanning

From Military to Mortgage Broker: Lewis Shaw’s Journey & Lessons for Advisers (S2, E7)

In this episode of Talk FS, Ryan Venner speaks with Lewis Shaw, a self-employed mortgage advisor with a unique background in the military. Lewis shares his journey into the mortgage industry, emphasising the importance of mentorship and practical experience in becoming a successful mortgage advisor. The conversation explores the shift in consumer behaviour post-COVID, the significance of avoiding negative outcomes in mortgage advice, and the challenges posed by misinformation in the industry. Lewis also discusses the role of protection in financial resilience and offers valuable advice for aspiring mortgage brokers.
Takeaways:
- Lewis transitioned from a military career to mortgage advisory by chance.
- Mentorship played a crucial role in Lewis's early career.
- Avoiding the worst outcomes is key in mortgage advice.
- COVID has significantly changed consumer behaviour in the mortgage market.
- Protection is essential for financial resilience.
- Misinformation from social media poses challenges for mortgage brokers.
- New entrants in the industry need more support and training.
- Every day is a learning opportunity in the mortgage industry.
- Empathy is vital when dealing with clients' financial concerns.
- Networking and seeking advice from experienced brokers is important.
Chapters:
00:00 - From Military to Mortgages: A Unique Journey
05:41 - The Importance of Mentorship in Mortgage Advisory
11:32 - Shifting Focus: Avoiding Negative Outcomes
17:46 - The Role of Protection in Financial Resilience
22:04 - Navigating the Post-COVID Mortgage Landscape
30:39 - The Future of Mortgage Advisory in an AI World

Chris Budd - Transforming Financial Advice Through Coaching (S2, E6)

In this episode, Chris Budd, a financial advisor and founder of Ovation Finance, discusses the evolution of financial advising towards a more human-centered approach. He emphasises the importance of coaching, listening, and understanding clients' true needs and desires to enhance their financial wellbeing. Chris shares personal experiences that led him to adopt coaching techniques in his practice, highlighting the disconnect between what clients want and what advisors often provide. The conversation explores the significance of finding meaning and purpose in financial planning, the role of support teams, and the future of financial advice as it shifts towards wellbeing.
 
Takeaways: Coaching skills enhance the financial advising process.
- Listening is more important than imparting information.
- Clients want to discuss their future plans and lifestyle.
- Financial wellbeing is about finding meaning and purpose.
- The evolution of financial advice includes cash flow forecasting.
- Understanding client happiness is crucial for effective advising.
- Empowering support teams can improve client relationships.
- Asking open questions leads to deeper client insights.
- Financial advisors should focus on long-term wellbeing, not just products.
- Building strong client relationships leads to referrals and loyalty.
 
Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
5:00 - Overcoming Resistance to Coaching
9:20 - The Importance of Listening in Financial Advisory
12:40 - Finding Meaning and Purpose in Financial Planning
16:40 - The Evolution of Financial Advice to Wellbeing
21:20 - The Pursuit of Happiness in Financial Planning
24:27 - Developing Coaching Skills for Financial Advisers
26:02 - The Relationship Between Money and Happiness
28:00 - The Importance of Social Relationships
30:00 - Empowering Support Teams in Financial Advisory
35:53 - Empowering Team Members for Better Client Care
38:15 - Outro
 
Chris Budd:
Website: https://www.chrisbudd.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-budd-80b75413/
 
Mentions:
Harvard Longitudinal Study Video: https://youtu.be/aFwG_1_XBCM?si=_GcXehtWRKISQ6jI
The Good Life: https://the-good-life-book.com/
It's not about the nail: https://youtu.be/-4EDhdAHrOg?si=L-lzfq3jMHOqvTa9
 

From Employee to Entrepreneur: Marianne's Mortgage Journey (S2,E5)

In this episode, Ryan Venner interviews Marianne Lombardi, a self-employed mortgage advisor with 17 years of experience. Marianne shares her journey from being an employed mortgage advisor to starting her own business, highlighting the challenges and rewards of self-employment. She discusses the importance of community support for mortgage brokers, which led her to create Mortgage Chat, an online platform for brokers to connect and share knowledge. Marianne emphasises the value of flexibility in her work-life balance and the lessons learned from past financial crises.
Chapters:
00:00 Marianne's Journey to Mortgage Advisory
07:54 Transitioning to Self-Employment
11:06 Navigating Challenges: The Impact of COVID-19
17:12 Building a Community: The Birth of Mortgage Chat
24:24 Future Plans and Community Initiatives
 
Takeaways:
Marianne transitioned from a cashier to a mortgage advisor at West Bromwich Building Society.
The 2008 financial crisis led to her redundancy, which opened new opportunities.
Working at Countrywide exposed her to a wider range of mortgage solutions.
Going self-employed allowed her to provide personalised service and build relationships.
Flexibility in her work schedule has improved her work-life balance as a mother.
The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging time but reinforced her decision to stay self-employed.
Marianne's business has grown significantly since going self-employed in 2019.
Mortgage Chat was created to support mortgage brokers and foster community.
The community provides a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences among brokers.
Marianne is passionate about educating young people on credit management.