Recent discussions on retirement planning, particularly the Resolution Foundation's "Living Pension" report, have focused heavily on the size of the pension pot required for a basic standard of living at the State Pension Age (SPA). The report highlights the significant increase in the savings required for retirement due to rising inflation and costs of living. … Continue reading Beyond Pension Pots: A Holistic Approach to Retirement Planning
Author: Steve Conley
Steve Conley brings over four decades of innovation and expertise to the forefront of financial planning. As the founder and driving force behind the Academy of Life Planning and HapNav Ltd, Steve has been a pivotal figure in transforming financial services to be more democratic and decentralised. His role as a Game Plan Practitioner, Coach, Mentor, Speaker, and Author of "Your Money or Your Life: Unmask the Highway Robbers - Enjoy Wealth in Every Area of Your Life" underlines his comprehensive approach to financial education.
The Academy of Life Planning, hailed as the "Most Pioneering Financial Planner Network," reflects Steve's commitment to fostering transparency, integrity, and accessibility. This institution serves as a testament to his dedication to enhancing the financial planning landscape.
Under Steve's innovative leadership, HapNav Ltd has launched groundbreaking advancements, including the first end-user financial planning app integrated with open banking. This app guides users towards achieving 'Kokoro'—a life rich in financial, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual abundance.
Recently, Steve introduced "Planning My Life" and "Financial Life Coach"—services that extend his ethos into practical, impactful tools for financial autonomy. "Planning My Life" offers an affordable subscription model, giving members access to an AI Life Planner, comprehensive resources, and expert insights. These initiatives epitomise Steve’s commitment to empowering individuals, nurturing community growth, and contributing significantly to global efforts to eradicate poverty.
Steve's journey is more than a career; it's a steadfast crusade to revolutionise financial education and planning, creating a world where financial wellbeing is not just attainable, but enriches every aspect of our lives. Contact steve.conley@aolp.co.uk.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams: Staying One Step Ahead of Fraudsters
The Financial Ombudsman Service has recently reported a record-breaking 8,734 fraud and scam complaints in just a three-month period this year, marking the highest quarterly level ever recorded. This sharp increase should serve as a serious wake-up call for all of us. Scams are becoming more complex, and even the most cautious among us can … Continue reading How to Protect Yourself from Scams: Staying One Step Ahead of Fraudsters
Human Capital Development in Financial Planning
When we talk about wealth, many immediately think of financial capital—savings, investments, and assets. But there’s another vital element in the wealth equation: human capital, which is often overlooked in traditional financial planning. The CFA Institute defines total wealth as: Total Wealth = Financial Capital + Human Capital – Lifetime Liabilities This formula is discussed … Continue reading Human Capital Development in Financial Planning
The GAME Plan: A Simple Plan for a Life of Wealth, Well-being, and Meaning
We, at the Academy of Life Planning, have developed a holistic financial planning process that we use to create lives of wellness, wellbeing, wealth, and significance. I want to share it with you. It’s called the GAME Plan, an acronym for Goals, Actions, Means, and Execution. We use it with self-directed people who want agency, … Continue reading The GAME Plan: A Simple Plan for a Life of Wealth, Well-being, and Meaning
Setting the Record Straight: Understanding Financial Advice, Coaching, and Planning
It can be frustrating when FCA-regulated financial advisers, perhaps unintentionally, look down on other financial service professionals, especially when they suggest that becoming one of them is somehow a step up. The reality is that FCA-regulated financial advice and the broader spectrum of financial services each serve distinct and important roles. Confusing the two doesn’t … Continue reading Setting the Record Straight: Understanding Financial Advice, Coaching, and Planning
Discover the Difference: Life and Financial Planning with Integrity
Hello, I’m Steve Conley. If you’re reading this, you’re likely seeking a better approach to managing your money and your life. I’m here to tell you that you’ve come to the right place. I’m not just a financial planner—I’m a life planner. My approach is different, and it’s precisely the difference you need. The Trust … Continue reading Discover the Difference: Life and Financial Planning with Integrity
How to Protect Yourself from Pension Scams: The Simple Truth
When it comes to your pension, there’s a lot of noise out there. You’ve probably heard advice about transferring your pension to get better returns, reduce admin headaches, or align with eco-friendly investments. It sounds tempting, right? But here’s the truth: there’s rarely a good reason to transfer your pension. In fact, shifting your pension … Continue reading How to Protect Yourself from Pension Scams: The Simple Truth
Bringing the Academy of Life Planning Network Together: An Invitation to Collaborate and Grow
Over the years, the Academy of Life Planning has thrived as a global community dedicated to holistic financial well-being. As we continue to grow, I am constantly inspired by the passion and commitment of our network members—whether they're seasoned professionals or individuals on their own financial planning journeys. Recently, a few of our professional planners … Continue reading Bringing the Academy of Life Planning Network Together: An Invitation to Collaborate and Grow
Addressing Delays and Ensuring Fair Outcomes: A Call for Systemic Review at St. James’s Place
At St. James’s Place (SJP), the ongoing review of advice cases has proven to be more extensive and time-consuming than initially anticipated. While the firm’s decision to set aside £426 million for ongoing advice compensation is still deemed appropriate, the process has been slow, leaving many customers waiting for extended periods before receiving a response. … Continue reading Addressing Delays and Ensuring Fair Outcomes: A Call for Systemic Review at St. James’s Place
Understanding the Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act 2024
At the Academy of Life Planning, we are committed to equipping our members with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate their financial and life journeys with confidence, purpose, and clarity. As part of this commitment, it is essential to stay informed about key legislative changes that impact the financial planning landscape. One such recent … Continue reading Understanding the Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act 2024
Academy of Life Planning 