In an era where the allure of financial products often eclipses the profound essence of financial advice, a recent report by the Pimfa Under 40 Leadership Committee sheds light on an underlying issue that impedes the true purpose of financial guidance. The focus has disproportionately leaned towards investment returns and past performance, overshadowing the vital … Continue reading The True Essence of Financial Planning: Beyond Investment Returns
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.
The Academy of Life Planning: Pioneering a New Era of Financial Wisdom
Our Essence: More Than Financial Planning In the heart of the UK, there emerges a beacon of transformation, the Academy of Life Planning, a vanguard in the realm of financial planning. With an ethos that transcends the mere arithmetic of finances, we embark on a mission to democratise financial planning. Our aim is simple yet … Continue reading The Academy of Life Planning: Pioneering a New Era of Financial Wisdom
Redefining Learning at the Academy: A Call to Mastery
During a recent Town Hall meeting, I was asked about my motivation for writing. Is it a meticulously planned process, or do spur-of-the-moment inspirations guide me? My response was straightforward: inspiration often strikes in the heat of emotion, revealing profound lessons and insights. It's these strong emotions that lead me to explore deeper, seeking the … Continue reading Redefining Learning at the Academy: A Call to Mastery
The Perilous Path of Personal Investment Firms: Navigating a Minefield of Liabilities
In an environment where the allure of the financial services sector continues to draw ambitious players, the recent proposals by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) cast a long shadow over the viability and attractiveness of operating as a Personal Investment Firm (PIF). This article explores the daunting challenges and potential liabilities that come part and … Continue reading The Perilous Path of Personal Investment Firms: Navigating a Minefield of Liabilities
The Dawn of the Non-Intermediating Financial Concierge: Revolutionising the Advisor-Client Relationship
In an era where the pace of change is incessant, the financial advisory landscape is on the cusp of a transformative shift. Traditional models, primarily focused on managing portfolios and regulated investments, are making way for a holistic approach that treats clients as the focal point, rather than their financial assets. The adviser of tomorrow … Continue reading The Dawn of the Non-Intermediating Financial Concierge: Revolutionising the Advisor-Client Relationship
Cultivating Purpose and Spiritual Wellbeing in Global Wellness Initiatives
In the evolving narrative of corporate wellness, the emphasis on spiritual well-being has emerged as a critical element, reflecting a deep-seated cultural value shared across diverse global communities. A McKinsey survey revealing the high importance placed on spiritual well-being by global respondents underscores this shift towards integrating purpose and service to others within wellness programmes. … Continue reading Cultivating Purpose and Spiritual Wellbeing in Global Wellness Initiatives
Embracing a Decumulation Mindset for Retirement: Insights from the FCA’s Latest Review
In the labyrinth of financial planning, retirement income stands out as a critical puzzle piece for a secure and fulfilling later life. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)’s recent thematic review sheds light on the retirement income advice landscape, offering a dichotomy of practices and setting a course for enhanced advisory standards. This article unpacks the … Continue reading Embracing a Decumulation Mindset for Retirement: Insights from the FCA’s Latest Review
Bridging Worlds: The Integration of Empirical Pragmatism and Holistic Inquiry in the Realm of Human Development and Financial Planning
Embarking on the profound journey of ascending in soul consciousness is a path that not only demands immense bravery but also an unwavering commitment to traversing the often tumultuous waters of personal growth and societal criticism. This article aims to offer a beacon of support and encouragement to those who, by choosing to elevate their … Continue reading Bridging Worlds: The Integration of Empirical Pragmatism and Holistic Inquiry in the Realm of Human Development and Financial Planning
The Empirical Evidence of Spiritual Well-being: A Cornerstone for Holistic Financial Planning
In an era where financial planning often focuses on numbers and tangible outcomes, the Academy of Life Planning champions a broader perspective. We advocate for the integration of spiritual well-being into financial planning, a stance supported by a wealth of empirical research. This approach recognises that true prosperity encompasses not just financial security but also … Continue reading The Empirical Evidence of Spiritual Well-being: A Cornerstone for Holistic Financial Planning
Navigating Life’s Financial Valleys: A Call for Holistic Financial Planning
In an era where ageism subtly yet significantly influences career opportunities, many find themselves facing unexpected financial valleys as they age. The story of Isaac Mockton in Metro News, a highly skilled professional who found his age to be a barrier in the job market, serves as a compelling case study on this issue. Despite … Continue reading Navigating Life’s Financial Valleys: A Call for Holistic Financial Planning
Academy of Life Planning 