The Money Marketing Podcast

Weekend Essay: Communicating the protection message closer to home

In this Weekend Essay, Amanda Newman Smith reveals why even those working in financial services can overlook the value of protection insurance — and what this means for how the industry communicates the importance of cover.
Listen now.

In Conversation With... Roderic Rennison: 50 Years of Financial Advice

In this episode, Money Marketing editor Tom Browne sits down with industry veteran Roderic Rennison, founder of Catalyst Partners, to reflect on five decades in financial services.
From door-to-door life insurance in the 1970s to the digital age of advice, Rennison shares what’s changed, what hasn’t... and what he still hopes to see.
 

In Conversation With... Bryn Williams: The “Un-Retiree” Adviser Redefining Second Career

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo speaks with Bryn Williams, a self-proclaimed “un-retiree” who re-entered the world of financial advice after a successful first career. Bryn shares how the Verve Foundation’s Adviser Incubator reignited his confidence, how his experience with science and tech clients informs his current approach, and why life’s big transitions have made him a more empathetic adviser.
He also explores how the industry can better support experienced professionals making a comeback — and offers heartfelt advice for those considering their own second act in financial services.

Protection and Pensions Series: How Regulatory Shifts Are Creating Advice Opportunities

Kimberley Dondo speaks to Ricky McKinney, UK Risk & Compliance Director at Royal London, about how outcomes-based regulation and the Consumer Duty are reshaping financial advice. They explore key findings from the Meaning of Value research, insights from the FCA's AGBR Policy Sprint, and the practical steps advice firms can take to embed value, demonstrate good outcomes, and use compliance as a competitive edge.
 
Discover more tools, research, and resources to support your Consumer Duty journey from Royal London today!
Listen to the previous episodes in the series here.

In Conversation With... Frederika Clay: From Adviser to Entrepreneur

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo speaks with Frederika Clay, Chartered Financial Planner at F & O Wealth, about her journey from working in financial services to launching her own firm. Frederika shares what drew her to The Verve Foundation’s Adviser Incubator, how its mentoring and community support helped her grow, and the pivotal moment she knew entrepreneurship was right for her. She also reflects on the challenges she’s faced, lessons learned, and her aspirations for the future of her business—and the financial advice industry as a whole.
 

In Conversation With... Alexander Thomas: When Financial Advice Meets Content Creation

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo speaks with Alexander Thomas — Financial Adviser, content creator, landlord, and start-up investor — about his journey from cold calling to carving out a unique voice in financial education. He shares what it was like finding his feet in the industry, how he juggles multiple roles, and why he believes more advisers should embrace social media. From debunking financial myths to tackling trolls and algorithms, Alex opens up about the power and pitfalls of building an online presence — and his vision for the future of financial advice in the UK.

Weekend Essay: How my two-year-old is breaking the bank (and my willpower)

In this week’s Weekend Essay, Tom Browne reflects on the financial and emotional toll of parenthood — from overspending at toy shops to chaotic family holidays. With another child on the way and a toddler already stretching his willpower (and wallet), Tom asks: are the sacrifices we make now really worth it in the long run?

In Conversation With... Chris Lewis on the Past, Present and Future of VCTs

As VCTs mark their 30th anniversary, Chris Lewis reflects on the sector's evolution, the critical role it has played in backing UK startups, and how recent policy changes—like the extension of the sunset clause—are shaping its future. He joins Kimberley Dondo to explore how investor sentiment is shifting, what the Autumn Budget could mean for 2025, and what advisers and investors should consider in today’s economic landscape.

In Conversation With... Symon Stickney: Making Sense of the MPS Maze

In this episode, Kimberley Dondo speaks with Symon Stickney, CEO of Collidr, to explore whether the UK’s Model Portfolio Service market is truly on the “edge of chaos”—or simply undergoing necessary evolution. They unpack the flood of options facing advisers, the myth of “too much choice,” and what really matters when selecting an investment partner. Symon shares his take on hidden portfolio risks, the role of tech (without the hype), and why service—not just performance—is the ultimate differentiator.
Is the current disruption just noise—or the new normal? Tune in to find out how Collidr aims to help advisers not just survive, but thrive.

In Conversation With... Simon Harvey: Building a Cross-Border Financial Advice Powerhouse

In this episode of In Conversation With..., Kimberley Dondo sits down with Simon Harvey, founder and managing director of bdhSterling, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of cross-border financial advice between the UK and Australia. From navigating dual regulation and advising expats to lessons learned from building a successful international business, Simon shares invaluable insights for advisers looking to expand globally.
What are the most common pitfalls in UK-Australia financial planning?