As a Labour government ponders raising taxes on capital gains, inheritance, and overseas wealth, many wealthy individuals in the UK are contemplating relocating abroad. However, the financial service regimes internationally are not the same as in the UK. For British expats, this transition can feel like venturing into the Wild West, where overseas domestic markets … Continue reading The Financial Wild West: Navigating the Risks for British Expats Considering Moving Abroad
Author: Steve Conley
Steve Conley is the founder of the Academy of Life Planning, a movement dedicated to restoring human agency in financial planning and helping people navigate life's decisions with greater confidence, capability and independence.
With over 40 years' experience in financial services, Steve has held senior leadership roles with HSBC, Royal Bank of Scotland, Santander and Royal London. A Chartered Financial Planner and Chartered Insurer, he combines deep industry expertise with a passion for challenging systems that leave people unnecessarily dependent on experts.
Steve believes the future of financial planning is not about replacing advisers with artificial intelligence, but using AI to strengthen people's ability to understand, question and make informed decisions for themselves. This philosophy underpins Academy OS, a growing ecosystem of AI-powered tools designed to help individuals, families and planners build capability rather than dependency.
Through the Academy of Life Planning, Steve works with financial planners, organisations and individuals who share a vision of a more transparent, ethical and human-centred approach to planning. His work spans education, research, technology, speaking and professional development, with a focus on creating practical solutions that improve financial capability and restore confidence in decision-making.
Steve is also the creator of the Total Wealth Planner approach, which recognises that a fulfilling life depends on far more than money alone. By integrating financial, personal, social and purpose-driven wellbeing, he helps people pursue what he calls "enough"—a life of balance, resilience and meaning.
As a speaker, mentor and author of *Your Money or Your Life: Unmask the Highway Robbers*, Steve continues to challenge conventional thinking about financial planning, arguing that the profession's greatest opportunity is to move beyond advice alone and become a catalyst for greater human agency.
To learn more or connect with Steve, visit the Academy of Life Planning or email steve@academyoflifeplanning.com.
Embracing Ubuntu: A Path to Holistic Life Planning
Introduction In a world increasingly driven by individualism and self-interest, the African philosophy of Ubuntu offers a refreshing and profound alternative. Ubuntu, often translated as "I am because we are," underscores the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of community, compassion, and mutual respect. This philosophy can be seamlessly integrated into life planning practices, fostering … Continue reading Embracing Ubuntu: A Path to Holistic Life Planning
8 Essentials that Differentiate Holistic Financial Planning from Traditional Financial Planning
Traditional financial planning often revolves around intermediating services provided by financial advisers. Holistic financial planning, however, offers a broader and deeper approach. Here, we explore eight features that distinguish holistic financial planning from its traditional counterpart. Authenticity Holistic financial planning begins with a process of self-discovery, often called values-based financial planning. Planners help clients identify … Continue reading 8 Essentials that Differentiate Holistic Financial Planning from Traditional Financial Planning
Speaking Up for Integrity in Financial Services: A Necessary Stand
Recently, Phil Bray, a financial adviser marketing support agent, voiced his discomfort with public criticism of peers and competitors within the financial services industry. In his post, Phil argued that such criticism could alienate potential clients and tarnish the reputation of the profession as a whole. While I understand his perspective, I must respectfully disagree … Continue reading Speaking Up for Integrity in Financial Services: A Necessary Stand
The Significance of the Longevity Illustrator in Life Planning
As we navigate the intricate paths of life planning, one of the pivotal aspects that demands our attention is understanding our longevity. This understanding forms the bedrock of effective financial planning, ensuring that resources are not only sufficient but optimally allocated to sustain us throughout our lifetime. The Actuaries Longevity Illustrator, developed by the American … Continue reading The Significance of the Longevity Illustrator in Life Planning
Transitioning from SJP to a Financial Planning Firm Without Regulatory Debt Restrictions
Understanding the Dilemma According to FT Adviser, many St. James's Place (SJP) advisers are currently grappling with the challenge of plummeting practice valuations and significant debt burdens. The recent economic environment, coupled with the specifics of SJP’s internal valuation methods, has placed advisers in a precarious position. The situation echoes troubling precedents set in Australia, … Continue reading Transitioning from SJP to a Financial Planning Firm Without Regulatory Debt Restrictions
The Longevity Imperative: A Holistic Approach to Financial Planning
In the realm of financial planning, embracing a holistic approach is essential, and Andrew J. Scott's book, "The Longevity Imperative: Building a Better Society for Healthier Longer Lives," aligns perfectly with this philosophy. This book is a must-read for anyone considering a career in financial planning or those looking to create their own comprehensive financial … Continue reading The Longevity Imperative: A Holistic Approach to Financial Planning
“I Ching”, The GAME Plan, and the Ancient Natural Cycle from Creation to Manifestation
The I Ching, also known as the "Book of Changes," is an ancient Chinese divination text and one of the oldest Chinese classics. It is a cornerstone of Chinese philosophy and has influenced many aspects of Chinese culture, including Confucianism, Taoism, and Chinese medicine. The I Ching is used primarily for divination, providing guidance and … Continue reading “I Ching”, The GAME Plan, and the Ancient Natural Cycle from Creation to Manifestation
Civilization Is Yours: So, Own it!
Look around. Disappointed with the state of the world? It's easy to point fingers. But here's the kicker: it's our fault. Yep, you heard me. The world’s mess is on us. Let’s break it down. The Freedom to Own Each Moment George Kinder, in "The Three Domains of Freedom," talks about how each moment is … Continue reading Civilization Is Yours: So, Own it!
The Evolution of the Personal Well-Being Index and the Impact of Omitting Spirituality and Religiosity
The Personal Well-being Index (PWI) has been a crucial tool for measuring subjective well-being across various life domains. Developed by the International Wellbeing Group, the PWI traditionally includes seven domains: standard of living, health, achieving in life, relationships, safety, community-connectedness, and future security. These domains collectively provide a comprehensive assessment of an individual's well-being, informing … Continue reading The Evolution of the Personal Well-Being Index and the Impact of Omitting Spirituality and Religiosity
Academy of Life Planning 