BWD: In The Know

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:The changing role of the financial plannerCoaches vs traditional advisersWhy traditional advice fails to reach most peopleBehavioural nudges and money habitsHuman relationships supported by structured techShort-term lifestyle vs long-term goalsThe future of scalable, accessible adviceIf 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 Background09:00 Making Financial Advice Accessible18:30 Technology, Algorithms & Real Life27:30 Behavioural Psychology & Inertia35:45 The Limits of Traditional Financial Planning43:45 Capturing People at the Right Moment52:30 Money Culture & National Financial Habits01:01:00 Shiny Objects vs Long-Term Freedom01:10:15 What Can (and Can’t) Be Changed01:18:45 Big Numbers, Misconceptions & Wrap-Up

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

Beyond Risk: Michelle Young on Reinsurance, Resilience & the Human Side of Actuarial WorkIn 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Actuarial Profession01:37 Michelle's Journey into Reinsurance03:12 The Passion for Being an Actuary04:34 Understanding the Broader Impact of Actuarial Work06:26 The Societal Impact of Actuarial Decisions07:34 Volunteering and Its Influence on Professional Growth09:21 Transitioning from Technical to Strategic Roles12:47 Actuaries and Uncertainty in Decision Making14:29 Explaining Actuarial Work to Outsiders15:31 Actuaries and Climate Change18:44 The Role of AI in the Actuarial Field21:34 The Role of Communication in Actuarial Training24:24 Embracing Growth Through Discomfort26:28 Exploring the Reinsurance Market28:26 Navigating Career Paths and Leadership Roles33:38 Unique Career Journeys and Opportunities

💡 “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:External validation: how much of what we do is driven by proving ourselves to othersResilience & choice: your background shapes you, but it doesn’t define youComposure pendulum: learning to return to centre when life swings between extremesSuccess vs meaning: the shift from chasing titles to searching for purposeFor 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.

From Actuary to Wall Street to Novelist: Mark W. Griffin on Risk, Reinvention & StorytellingIn 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 AmazonInspired by true events, The Mortality Thief is a razor-sharp and authentic thriller that's ripped from the headlines.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mark's Career Journey02:46 Transitioning from Actuarial Science to Wall Street05:47 Navigating the Investment Banking Culture08:50 Curiosity and Learning in a New Environment11:42 Leadership Lessons from CRO and CIO Roles14:35 Reflections on the 2008 Financial Crisis17:23 The Evolution of Risk Management20:12 Career Advice for Aspiring Actuaries23:10 The Importance of Curiosity and Networking26:11 The Impact of Mentorship on Career Decisions29:03 Exploring Writing as a New Venture31:44 The Mortality Thief: Blending Actuarial Themes with Fiction34:52 Parallels Between Risk Management and Writing37:38 Defining Success in a New Chapter40:46 Book Release and Closing Thoughts

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. 

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.

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:Growing up in Yorkshire and carving out a career in wealth managementThe accident that changed everything, and how he rebuilt his identityWhat it really takes to complete Ice Miles and solo swims in freezing waterHow he prepares for extreme pain, mentally and physicallyAnd why resilience, in all its forms, has become the thread that runs through his life 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.