Wealthtalk

Key Topics Covered:  1. Why Goal Setting Often Fails (and What’s Really Driving You)Everything you do day to day is largely driven by your subconscious mind.If you don’t set a clear goal, your subconscious will follow your dominant thought, which can lead to drift or self sabotage.The difference between achievers and non achievers is often whether they have a system for setting goals in a powerful way.2. Brian Main’s Story and the Origins of Goal MappingBrian grew up in a travelling funfair family, left school before 13, had dyslexia, and couldn’t read or write properly.After the family business collapsed, he faced repossession, major debt, and a very dark period personally.Personal development and goal setting became life changing, leading to the creation of Goal Mapping and a global coaching network.3. Why Words and Pictures Work Better Than Words AloneThe subconscious pays far more attention to images than to repeated written statements.Goal mapping combines clarity and precision (words) with subconscious

Key Topics Covered: 1. Why the Family Wealth Fortress, Why Now Inheritance tax on pensions from April 2027 is forcing families to rethink legacy planning. “High net worth” is now effectively £1m plus once pensions are included, meaning far more families are exposed. Many people have a patchwork of advice and products that is hard to coordinate, hard to optimise, and hard for executors to manage. 2. From Patchwork Quilt to Fortress Thinking The goal is to make wealth transfer elegant, organised, and resilient for the next generation. Kevin frames this as moving from wealth abundance into legacy, with a clear process rather than “hinting” at legacy planning. WealthBuilders positions itself as the central coordinator, like a “wealth GP”, bringing specialists in when needed. 3. The Seven Integrations (The Fortress Framework) Tax: proactive “event led” planning, especially inheritance tax, not just annual returns. Legal: wills, powers of attorney, protection, and avoiding disputes such as contentious

Key Topics Covered:  1. Starting Point: Mindset and MotivationTom’s journey was sparked by personal catalysts: his mother’s passing and a desire to be present for his young daughters.The importance of defining your “why” and setting clear financial milestones.Facing the reality of relying solely on a job for income—and using that as motivation for change.2. Laying the Foundations and Building PillarsTom and his wife began by securing wills, powers of attorney, and reviewing their finances to ensure a solid foundation (“the roof”).They chose property as their initial wealth-building pillar, focusing on buy-to-let for simplicity and sustainability.The process took time—over 12–18 months for their first deal—but commitment and clarity paid off.3. Momentum and the Power of RepetitionThe first property was the hardest, but each subsequent deal became easier as confidence and experience grew.Tom now owns 15 properties, primarily in the Bristol area, and has diversified into investments and other wealth pillars.Mont

Key Topics Covered:1. Why BRR MattersMost investors run out of cash before they run out of ambition.BRR is not just a “strategy”—it’s a way to keep growing your portfolio with limited resources.Works for residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties.2. The Seven Steps to BRR SuccessTarget properties others avoid (those with problems lenders won’t touch).Calculate your offer: future value minus costs and a 20% margin.Make fair offers—don’t be afraid to go below asking price.Expect and embrace rejection; it’s part of the process.Follow up with rejected offers—motivation changes over time.Secure finance, fix the property, and add value.Refinance at the new value to pull out as much cash as possible.3. Creative Financing & Bridging LoansBridging finance lets you buy and refurb properties that need work, even if you don’t have all the cash upfront.Build the cost of bridging into your deal—if the numbers work, it’s worth it.Always take longer terms than you think you’ll need to avoid penalties.4. Avoiding C

Key Topics Covered:1. Budget Headlines & Tax ChangesMore taxes on recurring income, dividends, and savingsBusiness owners face higher dividend charges and new limits on passing businesses to heirsEmployee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) and Business Property Relief (BPR) now have stricter tax limits2. Impact on Pensions & InvestmentsState Pension increase staysLimit on salary sacrifice for pensionsLower Cash Individual Savings Account [ISA] limits for under 65sHigher taxes on investment products3. Practical Advice for Wealth BuildersDiversify across the “seven pillars of wealth” and focus on recurring, controllable incomeUse tax-advantaged structures (like SSAS pensions) and keep an eye on changing rulesPay close attention to recurring expenses, tax, fees, and debts – control what you can4. Action Steps & ToolsDon’t get overwhelmed – take small, regular actions each monthUse WealthBuilders’ free budget guide, calculators, and resources for clarityExecutors now have 15 months (instead of 6) to report pensi

Key Topics Covered:1. Why Executives Choose Portfolio CareersMany senior leaders leave corporate jobs for more control, flexibility, and purpose.Becoming a non-executive director (NED) lets them advise several businesses, stay intellectually engaged, and build multiple income streams.2. What a Non-Executive Director Actually DoesNEDs guide and support business owners, using their experience and networks to help smaller companies grow.Typical NEDs are former CEOs, directors, or C-suite leaders who want to keep working, but on their own terms.3. Adrian’s Journey: From Corporate to EntrepreneurAdrian left a high-level tech role to help executives move into business ownership.He built and acquired several companies, faced personal and business setbacks, and ultimately found new direction after a major life shift.4. Overcoming Identity and Timing ChallengesLeaving a big job can trigger a loss of identity; Adrian stresses the importance of recognising your own value and skills.Timing your transition is key—look for

Key Topics Covered:1. What Changes in April 2027Unused pensions will count towards inheritance tax.Anything above the tax-free limit may be taxed at 40%.More families will be affected due to frozen allowances.2. Executors, Lost Pensions and Hidden TrapsNew burdens and risks for executors who must locate and report all pensions.The scale of “lost pensions” and how to track them down.When to consider consolidating multiple pots and when to seek advice.3. Income vs Capital and Smart GiftingIHT as a tax on capital, not income.Annual allowances, the 7‑year rule and “gifts with reservation”.How gifts out of surplus income can be unlimited and IHT‑free if well documented.4. Pensions, Annuities and Who’s AffectedWhich pensions are not treated as capital (state, final salary, annuities).Which are caught by the new rules (personal pensions, SIPPs, SSAS, DC workplace schemes).Pros and cons of using annuities to swap capital for income.5. SSAS Pensions and Multi‑Generational PlanningWhat a SSAS is and who can qualify (li

Key Topics Covered:1. From Furlough to Property FreedomHow COVID and furlough ended Athena’s high‑performing travel career overnight.Using that pause to ask, “Is this the life I want for the next 5–10 years?”Buying her first flat in Bournemouth, getting the numbers wrong, and why she still calls it her “baby” and best teacher.2. Rent‑to‑Rent, Burnout and Pivoting StrategyMoving into rent‑to‑rent HMOs and serviced accommodation to generate cashflow.The reality of late‑night calls, guest issues and stress – including the Sunday night window incident.Handing back all rent‑to‑rent properties and feeling as free returning the keys as when she first got them.Pivoting to simpler, long‑term strategies: buy‑to‑lets and buy–refurbish–refinance, with flips and land development as future options.3. Building Girls in Property: Community, Recurring Income and SupportWalking into a networking room of 45 people with only three women and thinking, “That’s a shame.”Finding no UK‑based female property networks or podcasts, then

Key Topics Covered:1. Mike’s Journey: From Corporate to Property FreedomWhy Mike left a successful retail career for more control and family time.How a nudge from Kevin Whelan led to financial independence through HMOs.Building a business and legacy with his wife Claire and daughter Katie.2. Why Property Still MattersProperty as a long-term investment: realistic 8–10% cash returns plus asset growth.HMOs outperform single buy-to-lets for cashflow and resilience in changing markets.The maturing HMO market: easier entry with ready-made properties and new marketplaces.3. Taking the Leap: Advice for Aspiring HMO InvestorsDefine your financial and lifestyle goals before choosing the HMO route.Research HMO models (young professionals, students, etc.) and build your local power team.Action is key—most successful investors wish they’d started sooner.4. Building HMO X: An Ecosystem for HMO SuccessHMO X supports investors at every stage: learning, buying, operating, scaling, and exiting.Bronze and Silver subscriptions t

Key Topics Covered:1. The Shift Away from PropertyWhy more investors are moving away from buy-to-let and traditional property strategiesImpact of rising interest rates, Section 24 tax changes, and new regulationsProperty returns: 39% growth in 10 years vs. 242% for stocks2. Is Property Still Worth It?Existing landlords with long-held properties may still see decent cash flowNew investors face higher barriers: stamp duty, mortgage rates, low yieldsThe myth of property as a “pension” is fading—returns are often below inflation3. Smart Investing FundamentalsThe two essential ingredients for any investment: growth (above inflation) and incomeThe importance of passivity, tax efficiency, and protectionDiversification across asset classes and within each class is key4. The Rise of Passive & Diversified InvestingStocks and global funds have outperformed property in recent yearsHow to generate income through dividends, REITs, and optionsManaging volatility: why long-term, balanced portfolios win5. Gold, Bonds, and

Key Topics Covered1. Sarah’s Journey: From Corporate to EntrepreneurWhy Sarah left a successful sales career for a life of freedom and travel.The importance of building a business around personal values—especially freedom.How the COVID-19 lockdown was a catalyst for launching She Scales.2. Making the Leap: Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursDon’t quit your job until you’ve validated your offer and secured your first clients.Everyone’s circumstances are different—assess your risk tolerance and responsibilities.The power of urgency and going “all in” when the timing is right.3. Finding Your True StrengthsEarly detours: retraining in design before realising her passion for sales coaching.Why it’s normal to “get it wrong” before finding the right fit.The value of building an audience and learning new skills—even if you pivot later.4. The Six Steps to Six Figures FrameworkSarah’s proven process for scaling to £100k+:Mindset: Prioritise mental, emotional, and spiritual health.Foundations: Define your ideal client and

In this episode, Christian Rodwell interviews Dr. John Demartini—renowned human behaviour specialist, author of over 40 self-development books, and creator of the Demartini Method and Values Determination Process. They discuss why only a small percentage of people ever reach financial independence, how our values shape every decision and outcome, and the practical steps to align your life and business with what matters most. Dr. Demartini shares actionable strategies for changing your values, overcoming internal and external obstacles, and building a life of purpose, fulfilment, and financial freedom.Key Topics & InsightsThe Power of Values in Achieving Financial Independence1. Why Most People Don’t Achieve Financial Freedom:Many people dream of it but fail to achieve it due to misaligned values—spending on consumables versus investing in assets.True financial independence comes from prioritising asset-building and recurring income over lifestyle spending.2. Values Drive Behaviour:Our daily habits and cha

In this episode, Christian is joined by WealthBuilders member and wealth coach Toby Spanier, who shares three powerful case studies of commercial properties he purchased using his SSAS pension.Toby reveals how he found and structured each deal, why a SSAS gave him a unique advantage over traditional financing, and how he created both income and tax-free capital growth within his pension.If you’ve ever wondered how a SSAS can be used to fund commercial property — even when banks won’t lend — this episode will give you clear, practical insights to apply on your own wealth-building journey.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Toby used his SSAS to buy three very different commercial properties.Why being a SSAS cash buyer can unlock discounts and opportunities others miss.How planning permission and smart structuring created significant tax-free uplifts.The differences between buying property inside vs. outside a SSAS.How collaborating with other SSAS investors can make bigger deals possible.Practical lessons to

In this week’s WealthTalk, Christian Rodwell and founder Kevin Whelan tackle the growing anxiety among UK business owners and investors as the autumn budget looms and economic headlines fuel uncertainty. They explore why fear-driven, knee-jerk financial decisions can be so damaging—and how to reframe your approach to build lasting, recurring income streams. The conversation covers government policy changes, inheritance tax, business succession, and practical steps to regain control, supported by real-life member stories and actionable advice. Key Topics Covered1. Current Economic Uncertainty & Its ImpactHeadlines are driving fear: budget rumours, slow property sales, and pension changes.Small business owners and savers are reacting to speculation, sometimes making rushed decisions.Older generations are increasingly turning to “buy now, pay later”—a worrying trend.2. The Danger of Knee-Jerk ReactionsKevin and Christian discuss how fear leads to poor decisions: raiding pensions early, panic property sales,

In this episode of WealthTalk, Christian Rodwell is joined by Omar Aswat, Chartered Tax Adviser and founder of ASWATAX, to unpack the urgent changes coming to Business Property Relief (BPR) in April 2026 and what they mean for business owners and property investors. Omar explains how the new BPR limits could expose significant business value to inheritance tax, highlights the practical steps you should be taking now, and delves into strategies like family investment companies, trusts, and smart incorporation. The discussion also covers the impact of Section 24 on landlords, practical tax-saving tips for business owners, and succession planning tools for those looking to future-proof their wealth. Whether you’re scaling a business, building a property portfolio, or planning your exit, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead of the curve.Key TakeawaysMajor Change to Business Property Relief (BPR) in 2026From April 6, 2026, BPR will only exempt £1 million of value per trading compa

In this episode, Kevin and Christian break down 21 practical ways to generate recurring income, drawing on the WealthBuilders “Seven Pillars of Wealth” framework. They explore both traditional and entrepreneurial strategies, offering actionable ideas for homeowners, business owners, investors, and anyone looking to build more reliable income streams. Whether you’re just starting your wealth-building journey or looking to diversify, you’ll gain fresh insights, real-life examples, and clear steps to help you take action and move closer to financial independence.Key TakeawaysThe Seven Pillars of Wealth:Understand the core asset classes—home capacity, pensions, investments, property, business, intellectual property, and joint ventures—and how each can generate recurring income.21 Practical Income Ideas:Learn actionable strategies within each pillar, from renting out a room in your home to leveraging intellectual property and collaborating on joint ventures.Traditional vs. Entrepreneurial Pillars:Discover the diff

This week marks a major milestone for WealthTalk as Christian Rodwell and Kevin Whelan celebrate the 300th episode of the podcast. The duo reflect on six years and seven months of weekly episodes, share key listener stats, and discuss how WealthBuilders has evolved—and where it’s headed next. They highlight the importance of family, recurring income, and legacy, and preview upcoming changes in content and focus, including the impact of new inheritance tax rules and the growing relevance of women in wealth. Listeners are invited to join the conversation, share feedback, and help shape the future of WealthTalk.Key Topics CoveredCelebrating 300 Episodes:Launched in February 2019; over six years of consistent weekly content.Gratitude to loyal listeners, including some who have listened to every episode—twice!Top 3 Most Downloaded Episodes:How to Create a Family Trust Fund (Ep. 122, with Paul Brooks)From Zero to £20,000 a Month – A Property Journey (with Heather Smale)The Seven Pillars of Wealth (Kevin’s book and

In this episode, Christian Rodwell speaks with Tracy Hilliard about the unique challenges women face on the journey to financial independence. Tracy shares her personal transformation—from financial insecurity to independence in under five years—and discusses the societal, educational, and confidence-related barriers that often hold women back. The conversation also introduces the WealthBuilders for Women programme, designed to provide tailored support, education, and community for women ready to take control of their finances.Key Topics CoveredWhy Wealth-Building is Different for WomenThe impact of societal expectations and traditional rolesLack of confidence and financial educationThe gender pay and pension gaps, and their long-term effectsBarriers to Financial IndependenceGender pay gap: women earn on average 13% less per hourPension gap: women’s average pension pot is less than half men’s (£39k vs £84k)Women typically live longer, requiring more financial security in later lifeTracy’s Wealth JourneyStarte

In this week’s episode, we take a new approach—using AI to debate and unpack Kevin Whelan’s “The 7 Pillars of Wealth: Your Guide to Complete Financial Independence in the 21st Century.” Drawing on the WealthBuilders philosophy, we explore the actionable blueprint for building lasting wealth, why the old rules no longer work, and how anyone can start their journey to financial independence—regardless of their starting point.Key Topics Covered:The 21st Century Wealth ParadigmWhy wealth-building today is about more than just accumulating moneyThe shift from individual to collaborative wealth creationKevin Whelan’s Blueprint: The Pantheon AnalogyThe structure: a solid foundation, seven pillars, and a protective roofThe guiding principle: Never let a month go by without building wealthThe Foundation: Financial SmartnessFour key areas:Debt smart: Manage or eliminate debt strategicallyTax smart: Use tax advantages legally and intelligentlyBill smart: Optimise regular expenses to free up capitalSure smart: Protect yo

In this episode of WealthTalk, Christian Rodwell sits down with Paul Tinker, founder of the Construction Training Academy. Paul shares his journey from a disciplined career in the army to delivering over £300 million in construction projects and eventually launching a business focused on training and mentoring others in the property and construction sectors.Paul uncovers the biggest overlooked opportunities in the industry—emphasising the importance of business acumen over technical skill, and the value of bridging the gap between property developers and construction professionals. He introduces his “CLARITY” framework for project pricing and management, which has helped clients dramatically increase their project values and professionalism.Listeners will hear Paul’s practical insights on creating income streams beyond hands-on building, such as consulting, project management, and pre-construction services. He also discusses leveraging pensions for property investment, the critical role of mindset and communi