As the lines between model portfolio services (MPS) and bespoke investment solutions continue to blur, advisers are increasingly asking if these two approaches are really in competition, or can they actually complement each other? In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, hosts Sue Whitbread and Matt Williams are joined by Eddie Kennedy, Head of Marlborough’s Personal Portfolio Service, to explore this very question. Eddie has plenty of experience in this field. In this conversation he not only shares his insights on how both MPS and bespoke solutions are evolving but also why framing them as opposing forces might just be missing the point. On the agenda for this week’s conversation are: How the MPS landscape is changing under the lens of Consumer Duty Why the trend toward commoditisation could be limiting service quality What really defines a true bespoke service – and what advisers should look for How MPS and bespoke solutions can work together as part of a lifelong client journey Why long-term thinking, or as Eddie’s family motto puts it, “Avise la fin” (“Consider the end”), matters more than ever for advisers and clients. As Eddie explains, Marlborough’s approach uses the same multi-asset framework to underpin both MPS and bespoke portfolios, illustrating how advisers can blend these strategies to meet evolving client needs. Whether you’re refining your investment proposition or simply keeping an eye on industry trends, this episode offers valuable perspective on how to align service, personalisation and long-term outcomes.

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, hosts Matt Williams and Jenny Hunter delve into one of the most hotly debated topics, the evolving role of the paraplanner and whether it’s time for formal FCA recognition. They’re joined by Derek Bradley, founder and CEO of Panacea Adviser, to discuss the findings of Panacea’s latest industry survey: “Should Paraplanners be more formally recognised by the FCA?” The research sparked widespread discussion across the financial planning community, raising key questions about professional identity, accountability and the future shape of the advice process. Would formal recognition help to elevate standards and professionalism, or would it simply add cost and complexity to an already heavily regulated sector? Derek shares his perspective on these issues, exploring the fine line between advisers’ and paraplanners’ responsibilities, and why outsourced and in-house paraplanners often have such contrasting views on the question of regulation. The conversation also looks ahead to what the next decade could hold for paraplanners, from evolving qualifications to shifting expectations around accountability and client outcomes. Listen now to hear Derek’s insights on Panacea’s latest research and what greater formal recognition could mean for paraplanners, and the advice profession as a whole.

The latest Mortgage & Property Investment special edition of IFA Talk explores how specialist lending is helping advisers support clients with increasingly complex financial needs. In this episode, Meg and Sue are joined by Gavin Diamond, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Inspired Lending. With over 15 years’ experience in senior leadership roles across the short-term and specialist lending industry, Gavin shares his expert insights into how bridging and specialist finance can empower advisers to deliver tailored solutions for clients with diverse and evolving financial profiles.   Highlights from this week’s episode Specialist lending for complex clients: Gavin discusses how bridging and short-term finance are becoming essential tools for advisers supporting clients with complex asset structures, liquidity challenges, and time-sensitive funding needs. Timing and market confidence: Drawing on recent market insights, Gavin explains why “stability is not a slowdown” and how today’s environment is laying the foundations for renewed long-term confidence in specialist finance. Supporting complex refurb and conversion projects: From office-to-residential conversions to portfolio repositioning, Gavin outlines how Inspired Lending structures loans that blend investment and development strategies to support clients’ ambitions. Understanding borrower behaviour and adviser value: Bridging lenders often gain a unique perspective on borrower decision-making under pressure. Gavin shares lessons on liquidity management, opportunity recognition, and how advisers can deepen client relationships through these insights. Building stronger partnerships with wealth managers: As client needs grow more complex, the lines between brokers, advisers, and wealth managers continue to blur. Gavin explores how collaboration and shared understanding can unlock better outcomes for clients across the wealth spectrum. This episode offers a fascinating look at how specialist lending continues to evolve, highlighting the opportunities it presents for advisers to deliver truly bespoke solutions in a changing market.

Multi-asset investing continues to sit at the heart of effective portfolio construction, helping advisers deliver diversification, risk alignment and consistent outcomes for their clients. But how can advisers be confident that the multi-asset solutions they choose really deliver long-term value? In this latest episode of IFA Talk, Matt Williams and Sue Whitbread are joined by Mithesh Varsani, Head of Investment Solutions at Scottish Widows, to discuss the evolving multi-asset landscape and the role of the Scottish Widows Managed Growth Funds in supporting advisers and their clients. Listen in as they discuss: Why multi-asset investing remains so critical in today’s uncertain markets How Scottish Widows’ Managed Growth Funds deliver diversification, governance and value, all with an OCF of just 0.10% The importance of trust and confidence for advisers when selecting investment partners How Scottish Widows’ long history and investment expertise can help advisers meet clients’ evolving needs As advisers continue to manage changing client priorities, from sustainability considerations to income needs in retirement, having an investment partner which can evolve with you is essential. Mithesh shares his insights on how Scottish Widows is doing just that: combining innovation, robust risk management and clear alignment to client outcomes. Be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon!  

In this month’s special TEI (Tax-Efficient Investment) special edition of IFA Talk, Matt and Jenny dive into a topic which is front of mind for many advisers right now, and that is changes to Inheritance Tax, pension and business relief, and what they might mean for long-term planning. To do this, Jon Prescott, Partner at Praetura Investments, joins us. He reveals how these reforms could reshape strategies around tax-efficient investing, and what advisers need to know to stay ahead. We also discuss how business relief can still play a role in a well-diversified estate plan, the necessary changes to ensure it be used effectively going forward, and why it is essential for advisers and their clients to take action sooner rather than later.

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, Matt and Sue are exploring a skill that every great financial adviser needs, but that doesn’t often get talked about enough: emotional intelligence.  Often labelled a ‘soft skill’, emotional intelligence (EI) is anything but soft when it comes to its impact on adviser success. It can be the difference between being a good adviser and a great one.  Joining us for this cracker of a conversation is James Woodfall, a former financial planner and founder of Raise Your EI. James has been doing some fascinating work on how emotional intelligence influences adviser performance, client relationships, and business outcomes.  Together, they explore:  How emotional intelligence gives advisers a competitive edge in today’s market  Ways to apply EI to support clients through uncertainty and change  Why developing EI is crucial for handling difficult conversations and reading client cues effectively  As Matt puts it: “It’s one of those skills that underpins everything advisers do. Building trust and rapport, establishing long term relationships, EI is at the heart of great advice.”  Whether you’re leading client conversations, mentoring junior colleagues, or steering your business through volatile markets, this episode offers practical insight into the human side of financial advice.  Listen now to hear how you can raise your own EI and strengthen the relationships that drive long-term success. 

This week on IFA Talk, Matt Williams and Jenny Hunter are joined by Gill Millen, Managing Director at Bowmore Financial Planning, to dig into one of the most pressing issues facing advisers and their clients today: people simply aren’t saving enough for retirement.  Bowmore’s latest analysis reveals that many clients, even those in their 40s and 50s and beyond, are contributing far below recommended levels, putting them at risk of a serious retirement income shortfall. In this episode, Gill shares practical ideas for how advisers can use this data to encourage clients to boost contributions and engage with their pensions earlier.  The conversation covers why under-saving is such a growing concern, how advisers can engage younger clients without adding to their financial stress, the best ways to nudge clients to increase contributions gradually, and where advisers can add the most value through smart pension planning.  If you’re looking for actionable tips to help clients secure a more sustainable retirement income, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.   

The latest New Insurance & Protection special edition of IFA Talk shines a light on an issue that impacts millions of households across the UK – protection.   In this episode, hosts Sue Whitbread and Meg Bratley are joined by The Exeter’s Head of Protection Distribution, Jamie Page. Jamie explains why certain groups continue to be left behind when it comes to protection, and what the industry can do as a whole to ensure we see real change moving forward.   Highlights from this week’s episode   Unpacking underserved markets and their importance   Who are the underserved groups in protection? and the unique challenges that they face  Advisers’ role in reaching underserved markets  Advice on how to ensure underserved groups aren’t left behind  This episode makes for a fascinating and timely discussion, highlighting the responsibility – and the opportunity – advisers have to make protection advice more relevant and accessible to all at a pivotal time.  

This week on IFA Talk, we’re getting into one of the biggest talking points in pensions – transfers. For years, they’ve been a bit of a nightmare. Slow processes, endless paperwork, frustrated clients… we’ve all heard the stories. But are those days finally behind us, or is there still work to be done?  Sue Whitbread, Editor here at IFA Magazine, and Senior Financial Journalist Jenny Hunter are joined by Anthony Rafferty, CEO of Origo, to find out. Anthony shares his take on what’s changed, why some providers are getting it right while others are still dragging their heels, and what it’s going to take to bring everyone up to speed.  Of course, the pensions world never stands still, so the chat also covers how wider uncertainty could affect things over the months ahead. And then there’s the pensions dashboard, after all the delays, is it finally back on track? What will it mean for advisers, providers and consumers once it’s up and running?  It’s a lively, insightful conversation with plenty of straight talk about where we are now and what’s coming next. 

Retirement income planning has always been front and centre for advisers and paraplanners – and it’s evolving fast.  In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, Matt and Sue are joined by not one but two expert guests from Morningstar Wealth:  Steve Coleman, Head of Product, and Steve Owen, Head of Proposition. Together, they explore what advisers and paraplanners really want and need from providers when it comes to helping clients achieve secure, sustainable retirement income.   In this conversation, we cover:  What advisers and paraplanners are telling providers about their biggest retirement income priorities  How retirement planning might change over the next decade  The role of regulation, technology, and consumer behaviour in shaping better client outcomes  Ways to engage younger people with financial planning – both as investors and as a profession  Whether you’re focused on immediate client conversations or planning for the long-term evolution of your advice business, this episode is full of insights to support your thinking in today’s ever-changing retirement landscape. 

Now live: The latest Mortgage & Property Investment special edition of IFA Talk explores how advisers can best support clients in complex or evolving circumstances.  In this episode, Jenny Hunter and Meg Bratley are joined by Laura Sneddon, Head of Mortgage Sales and Distribution at Hinckley & Rugby for Intermediaries. With over 20 years’ experience in financial services, Laura shares her insights on how advisers can unlock opportunities for borrowers through flexible, manual underwriting and a more tailored approach to complex cases.  Highlights from this week’s episode  Income flexibility – how lenders can support clients with irregular earnings such as bonuses, dividends, freelance work, side hustles or overseas income  Wealth transfer – the role of parents and families in helping younger buyers onto the property ladder, and how HRFI structures lending to reflect intergenerational support  Case studies – real-life examples of clients who are asset-rich but cash-poor, and how flexible lending can make a difference  Vulnerability – how HRFI’s Vulnerability Academy equips advisers with tools to navigate sensitive situations with confidence  Additional insights into specialist areas such as support for self-employed borrowers, opportunities in the visa buy-to-let market, and the unique needs of Scotland’s mortgage sector  This episode makes for a fascinating and timely discussion, shining a spotlight on the opportunities for advisers to deliver meaningful solutions in a rapidly changing borrower landscape and why collaboration with lenders such as HRFI can help ensure every client receives the right support.     

If you’ve ever felt like the tech in your advice business is more of a hindrance than a help, you’re not alone. Multiple systems that don’t talk to each other, endless rekeying, and the same tasks repeated in five different places, it’s a frustration most advisers know all too well.  In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, Jenny Hunter and Sue Whitbread are joined by Nick Ryan, CEO, and David Mills, Chairman, at Pilot Financial Systems. Both have deep roots in the advice profession and have lived the challenges first-hand – and they’ve set out to do something about it.  They share why they believe now is the time for advisers to take back control of their tech, why ownership and independence matter so much in practice management tools, and how better integration could help bridge the advice gap.  We also hear their vision for how advice firms could be running in five years, and it’s a future you’ll want to hear about.  So, if you’re ready to swap admin overload for smarter, joined-up systems, tune in now and hear how Pilot is helping firms cut through the chaos.   

In this week’s IFA Talk podcast, we’re exploring model portfolio services (MPS), asking what really makes for a successful partnership between an MPS provider and an advice business. It’s a subject that remains front of mind for many advisers and wealth managers, especially as the MPS market evolves and client expectations continue to grow. To learn more about L&G’s MPS, visit here. You can also visit L&G blogs for more thought leadership pieces. Meet L&G’s Francis Chua To help us dive into this topic, Sue and Matt are joined by Francis Chua, Fund Manager at L&G. Francis plays a key role in shaping L&G’s MPS proposition and shares his insights on what advisers are asking for, how L&G is set up to deliver, and where he sees the market heading. What we cover in the conversation What advisers are cautious of when selecting an MPS partner What advice firms look for in a successful partnership How L&G supports advisers with services and tools How the MPS market is evolving – and what the future may hold Listen to the full conversation Tune in to hear Francis’s practical take on how to make long term MPS partnerships truly successful, and what that could mean for advisers and clients alike. Be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon!  

In this month’s special TEI (Tax-Efficient Investment) special edition of IFA Talk, Matt and Jenny dive into the topic of tax-efficient planning during a time of rising taxes.  With taxes on the rise, new rules bringing pensions into the inheritance tax net, and clients increasingly looking to advisers for clarity, the landscape has never been more challenging. But it’s also a time of real opportunity for advisers to demonstrate value.  To help unpack this, Diana French, Chief Commercial Officer at Triple Point joins us to share her expert insights. She reveals how advisers are adapting their tax and estate planning conversations, where Business Relief fits into today’s toolkit, and why VCTs are still playing a crucial role – especially as we head into the next offer season.  Be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon! 

Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) might not be the most glamorous of topics but it’s a crucial one for every financial advice firm. In this episode of  IFA Talk, we’re taking a fresh look at it with someone who knows the advice profession inside out.  Our guest is Lee Robertson, now Non-Executive Director and Head of Strategic Partnerships at BareRock, the digital-first PII provider that’s shaking things up.  Many in the profession will know Lee as a long-time champion of quality financial planning advice. Now, in his new role at BareRock, he’s working to forge strategic partnerships, lead community-building efforts, and help create a PII proposition that puts adviser needs first.  In this episode, Matt and Sue chat to Lee about how BareRock is making waves in the PII space, what they’re doing differently, and how they aim to create a better deal for well-run advice firms. From digital onboarding to building a community of like-minded professionals, BareRock’s approach is certainly different, all about transparency, tech, and rewarding quality.  Be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon! 

In this month’s special New Insurance & Protection episode of IFA Talk, we shine a light on client protection, something which concerns all of us in the industry. Joining us to discuss this are LifeSearch’s CEO Debbie Kennedy, and Homeowners Alliance’s CEO and Founder Paula Higgins. The two have worked together recently on some fascinating research, which we’ll dive into in this special episode. Debbie and Paula unpack how advisers can address client protection advice issues to ensure the advice is understood, valued, and acted upon. They reveal why protecting people is so important and the role that advisers play in ensuring that clients really understand the value of protection. They also focus on younger clients, referring to their research which shows that young people don’t take out income protection because they feel it isn’t for them. Another area in their research is the role of women, who are often under-protected. They outline how advisers can help women see protection as a priority. Listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon!

This week on IFA Talk, we’re flipping the script on one of the biggest topics in financial services – AI. But rather than talking about how it can help you churn through work faster, we’re asking something a bit deeper: what if the real power of AI is actually about creating better workplaces? Joining us for this thought-provoking episode are two brilliant guests, Jenny Segal, a Workplace Culture Expert, Author and Investment Industry Leader, and Annabel Gillard, an expert in AI and Corporate Culture. Together, they explore how AI could unlock motivation, purpose and true human empowerment at work…if we’re bold enough to let it. From rethinking traditional leadership models to seeing organisations as living, breathing systems, this isn’t your usual AI chat. Jenny and Annabel dive into what companies are getting wrong, why so many firms still treat AI as just a cost-saving tool, and what we miss out on when we take that narrow view. To hear even more from Jenny and Annabel on this topic, you can find an article covering everything you may want to know on our website: AI adoption and workplace culture: why empowerment, not just efficiency, is the real opportunity.

In this week's episode of IFA Talk, we dive into the world of taxes, following changes to IHT rules. Recent changes and potential further tightening of the IHT rules mean that some families could face a shockingly high combined tax burden on a business owner’s estate. When you factor in Corporation Tax, Dividend Tax and IHT, in some cases the overall tax exposure could reach as much as 88%. Joining us to discuss this is Peter Ball, Tax Partner at Bishop Fleming. Peter helps us get our heads around where this tax trap is coming from, and how it can be mitigated with the right planning. Peter shares his insights on how you can help your business clients and their families plan for liquidity in a business, the practicalities surrounding valuations, and whether trusts might once again play a larger role in succession strategies. Peter explains how the 88% figure is calculated and under what circumstances it could apply, how business owners can ensure there’s enough liquidity in the company to meet potential IHT liabilities, the practical issues that advisers and their clients need to consider when it comes to valuing the business, and whether he sees trusts playing a bigger role in succession planning for family businesses going forward. Be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon!

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the most important and often overlooked parts of the advice process: the first client meeting. Joining Jenny and Sue for the chat is the fantastic Melissa Kidd, Director, Speaker and Soft Skills expert, who’s on a mission to help advisers make the most of that all-important first hour with a potential client. Earlier this year, Melissa spoke to over 100 financial advisers to find out what’s really going on in those initial meetings. Why do some advisers convert with ease, while others struggle to get the outcomes they’re hoping for? What are the common communication pitfalls? And how can a few small mindset shifts lead to big improvements in results? Melissa shares the outcomes of her research, as well as practical ideas and insight from the mentoring work she’s been doing to help advisers up their game, including starting a Finesse Your First Meeting Mentoring Programme. This episode is packed with thoughtful takeaways on how to build trust, communicate value, and boost client engagement right from the start. Tune in now to hear Melissa’s top tips on turning a first meeting into the start of a strong and lasting client relationship.

In this week’s episode of IFA Talk, we’re taking a look at the journey from paraplanning to partnership – and who better to talk us through it than Stuart Coombe, Partner and Rural Specialist at Old Mill. Stuart joined the firm back in 2008 as a paraplanner, fresh from a dairy farming upbringing in East Devon. Since then, he’s not only become a Chartered Financial Planner but also made the leap into advice – and more recently into leadership as a Partner. It’s been quite the progression, and in this episode, Stuart shares the key moments, learnings and motivations behind each step of his career. We chat about what first drew him to financial services, how he tackled the shift from paraplanning to advising, and why professional development has been a cornerstone of his success. Stuart also reflects on his new role mentoring up-and-coming advisers, offering valuable advice for paraplanners looking to take the next step. It’s a conversation packed with insight, honesty, and practical takeaways for anyone thinking about how to build a meaningful and rewarding career in financial planning. A big thanks to Stuart for sharing his story – and to you, our listeners, for tuning in. Don’t forget to subscribe to IFA Talk for more stories and conversations from the world of financial advice