By Steve Conley | Financial Life Coach | Academy of Life Planning
As more tools like ChatGPT, Fathom, and other AI assistants become integrated into financial and legacy planning, clients are asking an important question:
“Where does my data go—and is it safe?”
In this short Q&A, I’ll walk you through exactly how client data is handled when I use AI-powered tools in my planning work, and how I protect your privacy every step of the way.
âť“Q1: When you use AI like ChatGPT or Fathom, is my data stored or shared?
A: No, not without your consent. Here’s how it works:
- ChatGPT (OpenAI):
When I use ChatGPT or GPT-based tools, your data is not used to train the model and is not stored permanently. These tools are session-based and do not retain information unless I specifically save it within a secure system like Notion or HapNav (which you control access to). - Fathom (Zoom call transcription):
Fathom records and transcribes Zoom meetings, but only with your permission. The recordings are stored securely and encrypted, typically on EU or US-based servers that meet strict cloud security standards (Google Cloud, AWS, etc.).
âť“Q2: Are these tools compliant with UK data protection laws like GDPR?
A: Yes. Any AI tools I use must meet the data protection standards of the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. That means:
- You have the right to know what’s collected and why
- You must give clear, informed consent before sensitive data is used
- You can request access, correction, or deletion of your data at any time
I only use tools that are transparent, trustworthy, and secure.
❓Q3: Where is the data hosted—and can it be accessed by AI companies?
A: Hosting depends on the tool:
- ChatGPT (via OpenAI or Microsoft):
Data is usually processed on US-based servers, with enterprise options hosted on Azure UK or EU servers if enhanced privacy is needed. When using ChatGPT in privacy-first mode (which I do), data is not used for AI training or shared. - Fathom:
Stored on secure cloud platforms in the US or EU, encrypted in transit and at rest.
Rest assured—your data is not fed into some public AI model. It stays between us unless you instruct otherwise.
âť“Q4: What are my rights as a client?
You have full sovereignty over your data. That means:
- You can opt out of AI tools entirely
- You can ask to see, delete, or correct any data I hold
- You can request that no AI is used in your planning work
I always prioritise consent and clarity over convenience.
âť“Q5: Why use AI at all in life planning?
Great question. I use AI not to replace human insight—but to empower it. Here’s why:
- It helps visualise long-term scenarios (e.g. inheritance planning, care costs, tax outcomes) in minutes
- It allows us to model different legacies for your children and grandchildren
- It brings structure and speed to what can otherwise be overwhelming conversations
Ultimately, the tools support our work—but you remain in control of every decision.
✅ How I Work with AI — The Sovereign Way:
| Principle | Practice |
|---|---|
| Consent First | No data is used without your approval |
| Transparency Always | You’ll know where, why, and how data is used |
| No Intermediation | I don’t sell data or delegate your privacy |
| Ethical AI Use | I only use AI that respects your autonomy |
| You Own It | You can request, export, or erase your data any time |
🧠Final Word
AI isn’t going away—but how we use it matters. I believe in ethical, client-first technology that supports self-agency and trust—not exploitation or confusion.
If you have any questions about AI tools I use, how your data is handled, or want to opt out of any AI-related processing, just ask. You deserve full confidence, clarity, and control.
Yours in trust,
Steve Conley
Financial Life Coach & Founder of the Academy of Life Planning
📧 steve.conley@aolp.co.uk
🌍 www.aolp.info
đź”— https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenjamesconley/
💠“Technology should empower your freedom—not erode your sovereignty.”
Academy of Life Planning 