WealthTalk - money, wealth and personal finance.

In this episode, Christian Rodwell welcomes Chris Spratling—seasoned entrepreneur, advisor, and author of “The Exit Roadmap: The Insider’s Guide to Selling Your Business Profitably.” With over 30 years’ experience in scaling, buying, and selling businesses, Chris shares vital insights on preparing for a successful business exit, maximising value, and planning for life beyond the sale.

Key Topics & Takeaways

• Chris’s Background & Relationship with WealthBuilders
  • Over 30 years’ experience in business exits and scaling
  • Longstanding collaboration with Kevin Whelan and the WealthBuilders community
• The Seven Pillars of Wealth & Business as a Pillar
  • Importance of integrating business, property, and intellectual property in wealth strategies
  • Using SSAS pensions and commercial property for long-term planning
• Who Chris Helps
  • Focus on ambitious SME owners (turnover £2M–£30M)
  • Chalk Hill Blue’s approach to scaling and preparing businesses for exit
• Why Most Business Owners Struggle to Exit Successfully
  • 80% of personal wealth often tied up in the business
  • Less than 20% of businesses listed for sale actually sell
  • Common pitfalls: overestimating value, lack of preparation, misunderstanding buyer motivations
• Stages of Preparing for a Business Exit

1. Seller Readiness: Clarifying motivations, financial needs, and post-exit plans
2. Business Readiness: Building value through 10 key drivers (growth, scalability, recurring revenue, differentiation, reduced reliance on individuals/customers, strong processes, etc.)
3. Process and Systems: Importance of automation, AI, and streamlining tasks to ensure business runs without the owner

• Quick Wins for Business Owners
  • Assess current financial position and retirement gap
  • Use Chalk Hill Blue’s free Exit Readiness Survey for personalised feedback
  • Focus on one or two value drivers for immediate impact
• The Role of AI and Automation
  • Embracing AI for efficiency, productivity, and future-proofing business operations
  • Real-world examples from Chris’s clients and his own accountancy practice
• Family Business Transitions
  • Importance of education and tailored succession planning
  • Creating freedom and options before selling or stepping back
• Timeline for Selling a Business
  • Realistic prep: 2 years to get “sale-ready,” plus 9–12 months to complete a sale
  • Most deals involve staged payments and handover periods
• Finding Buyers and Structuring the Deal
  • Importance of assembling a deal team (IFA, tax, legal, corporate finance)
  • Different exit routes: trade sale, management buyout, employee ownership trust, family office, etc.
  • Creating competition to maximise sale price
• Life After Exit
  • Planning for the “next chapter” to avoid post-sale regret or loss of identity

Practical Tips

• Start exit planning early—ideally at least 2 years in advance
• Focus on building recurring revenue and reducing reliance on the owner
• Use automation and AI to streamline processes and increase business value
• Educate and engage the next generation for family business continuity
• Assemble a strong advisory team for the exit process

Resources Mentioned

• Grab a copy of Chris Spratling's book: “The Exit Roadmap: The Insider’s Guide to Selling Your Business Profitably” 
• Check if you are you truly ready to exit. Take the Exit Readiness Survey It's a free, personalised exit readiness report.
• Contact Chris:
  • Chris Spratling on Linkedin
  • Chris Spratling Website
• WT103 - Employee ownership trusts w/ Chris Budd
• WT38 - The 8 Drivers Of Business Value - Richard Perry

Connect with Us:

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform

In this episode, Christian Rodwell sits down with insurance expert Josh Munt to explore the often-overlooked world of insurance for property investors, business owners, and professionals. Josh shares practical tips, common pitfalls, and actionable strategies to ensure you’re properly covered—without overpaying or leaving yourself exposed.

Key Discussion Points

• Josh’s Background & Core Audience:
  • 20+ years’ experience as a specialist insurance broker
  • Focus on property professionals and commercial clients
• Why Insurance Matters:
  • The real purpose: making sure claims are paid
  • Why underinsurance is so common (76% of UK buildings are underinsured)
• Most Common Mistakes:
  1. Incorrect Rebuild Values:
     • Many insure for market value, not rebuild cost
     • Rebuild values have risen sharply post-COVID; regular reviews are essential
     • Tools and affordable surveys for accurate valuations
  2. Tenant Type Disclosure:
     • Changing tenants (e.g., from office to restaurant or social housing) alters risk
     • Not notifying insurer can lead to denied claims
  3. Ignoring Policy Conditions:
     • Most skip reading policy wordings—key is to check ‘endorsements’ or ‘conditions’ sections
     • Failing to meet conditions (like property inspections) can void cover
• Premiums vs. Cover:
  • Why focusing solely on the cheapest premium can backfire
  • Importance of tailoring cover to your real risks
• Benefits of Using a Specialist Broker:
  • Tailored policies for unique risks
  • Wide market access and claims assistance
  • Support for both property and business insurance under one roof
• Insurance Tips for Business Owners:
  • Insure for loss of income, not just property
  • Consider all eventualities: liability, legal expenses, cyber risks
• Advice for Solopreneurs & SMEs:
  • Cyber insurance is crucial for online businesses
  • Manual trades need robust liability cover
  • Professional indemnity for service providers
• Ways to Lower Insurance Costs:
  • Self-insure for small risks and increase excess
  • Bundle multiple properties under one policy for savings and simplicity

Final Thoughts
Insurance may not be the most exciting part of wealth-building, but as Josh explains, it’s one of the most critical. Failing to declare something or reviewing your cover too late could cost thousands. With the right advice, you can ensure you’re covered properly, avoid costly mistakes, and potentially save money in the long run. As a special bonus, Josh is offering a waived admin fee for WealthBuilders listeners who mention the podcast when they enquire.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Your admin fee is waived! Simply mention WealthBuilders when you enquire to Insurance Desk.
• LinkedIn: Josh Munt

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform

In this inspiring Member Spotlight, Christian Rodwell talks to Bimbi Fernando, a transplant surgeon who joined WealthBuilders Academy in February 2021. Bimbi shares his journey from financial insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic to achieving financial independence in 2024. He discusses the catalysts for change, the asset classes he focused on, the importance of education and community, and how he’s now using his experience to build a purposeful legacy.

Key Topics Covered

• Catalyst for Change: 
  How the COVID-19 pandemic and personal experiences highlighted the need for financial security and protection for loved ones.
• Choosing WealthBuilders: 
  The journey from property education to discovering the WealthBuilders community, and the support received from Kevin Whelan and Christian Rodwell.
• Financial Independence Roadmap:
  • Moving from financial insecurity (despite a well-paid job and existing properties) to security and then independence.
  • Leveraging property, investments, and innovative financial tools (e.g., Director’s Loan ISA) to build multiple streams of recurring income.
• Education and Support:
  • The crucial role of education in understanding and managing risk.
  • Value of coaching and accountability—special mention to Bimbi's Wealth Coach, Manish Kataria and the WealthBuilders community.
• Protection and Legacy:
  • Revisiting wills, setting up trusts and powers of attorney to protect family and assets.
  • Vision for purposeful retirement and building an “Institute of Kindness” to make a wider impact.

Practical Takeaways

• Start with Education:
  Don’t underestimate the value of learning and community support in your wealth-building journey.
• Diversify Income Streams:
  Combining property, investments, and innovative financial products can accelerate your path to independence.
• Plan for Protection:
  Ensure you have up-to-date wills, trusts, and powers of attorney in place as part of your financial plan.
• Leverage Community:
  Accountability and support from mentors and peers can make the journey less lonely and more effective.
• Purpose Beyond Independence:
  Achieving financial independence opens doors to legacy projects and giving back, such as Bimbi’s focus on kindness and purposeful retirement.

Final Thoughts

Bimbi’s story is a testament to the power of education, community, and taking action. For anyone considering starting their own journey, he encourages weighing the risks of inaction against the benefits of joining a supportive network like WealthBuilders. If it’s important enough, you’ll find a way to make it happen.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Bimbi Fernando's book on Kindness 'The Forgotten Compass: Discover the Life Secret to Allow You to Flourish Beyond Your 50s'
• Click here to know more about the Wheel of Wealth

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform

In this week's WealthTalk episode, Christian and Kevin dive deep into the major changes coming to inheritance tax on pensions from April 2027. 

They explain how these changes impact UK pension holders, why awareness and action are critical, and practical steps to protect your legacy. 

The discussion covers the basics of inheritance tax, the new rules for pensions, the benefits of consolidating pensions, and how SSAS pensions can offer unique advantages for business owners and families. 

The episode is packed with actionable advice, real-life scenarios, and essential tips to help listeners safeguard their wealth for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

1. What’s Changing: From April 2027, pension assets will be included in your estate for inheritance tax purposes, potentially increasing tax bills for families.

2. How Inheritance Tax Works: Understanding nil rate bands, residence nil rate bands, and how thresholds apply to individuals and couples.

3. Why Consolidate Pensions: Multiple pensions can mean multiple fees and administrative headaches—consolidation can simplify estate planning and reduce costs.

4. SSAS Pensions: How Small Self-Administered Schemes can offer flexibility, family involvement, and strategies to mitigate inheritance tax.

5. Gifting Strategies: The difference between gifting from capital (subject to seven-year rule) and gifting from income (no seven-year rule).

6. The Role of Wills & Trusts: Why pensions usually sit outside your will, and the importance of using trusts for life insurance and asset protection.

Action Steps:

• Check your state pension status.
• Locate and consolidate your pensions.
• Learn about SSAS and its benefits for business owners.
• Review your estate planning, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

Building a Family Wealth Legacy: Involving the next generation, sharing financial wisdom, and using family wealth structures to maintain and grow assets.

Practical Tips:

1. Don’t wait until 2027—start reviewing and organising your pensions now.

2. Put life insurance policies in trust to avoid unnecessary inheritance tax.

3. Use SSAS pension features like loanback and earmarking to support family wealth and business growth.

4. Download the Guide - Click here to join the waitlist for the upcoming step-by-step guide on inheritance tax and pensions. 

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Download the Guide: Click here to join the waitlist for the upcoming step-by-step guide on inheritance tax and pensions.

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform

In this episode, Christian Rodwell welcomes Alex Norian (founder of IWN Accountancy) and Ben Lansdown (Director of Analytics, IWN Analytics) to discuss the evolving landscape for UK property investors and landlords.

They explore the challenges of property portfolio management, regulatory changes, and how landlords can use data-driven tools to optimise performance and profitability.

Alex and Ben introduce “Landlord Pulse,” a new analytics platform designed specifically for landlords, and explain how it empowers both new and experienced investors to make smarter decisions with real-time insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Treat property investment as a professional business, not a passive sideline.
• Use data-driven tools to make timely, informed decisions.
• Benchmark your portfolio against local market data to spot opportunities or risks.
• Focus on both cash flow and long-term capital growth.
• Build relationships with professionals and peers to uncover new opportunities.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Recurring Income Masterclass [Register Here]
• Landlord Pulse Demo Booking
• IWN Accountancy
• IWN Analytics
• Alex Norian [LinkedIn]
• Ben Lansdown [LinkedIn]

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform.

In this interview, Kevin Whelan and Manish Kataria delve into the intricacies of SSAS pension, exploring how it can serve as a powerful financial tool for business owners. 

They discuss the importance of taking action in financial planning, the benefits of collaboration in wealth building, and the implications of inheritance tax on financial strategies. 

The conversation emphasises the need for financial education and the potential of SSAS pensions to create wealth now, rather than just serving as a retirement fund. 

In this episode, Kevin speaks about the importance of recurring income, effective financial planning, and the significance of protecting wealth through wills and insurance. 

Key Takeaways:

• Momentum is Better than Meditation: Don’t wait for the perfect time—take small actions now to build confidence and results.
• Nobody Will Ever Care About Your Money More Than You: Taking personal responsibility is at the heart of successful wealth-building.
• SSAS Pensions Offer Unique Control and Flexibility: Ideal for business owners looking to invest in property, business, or even lend to their own company.
• Keep It Simple: Simplicity in your finances and investment strategy often leads to better results than chasing complexity.
• Plan for Both Wealth Creation and Protection: Wills, powers of attorney, and insurance are essential tools for safeguarding your family’s future.
• Focus on Recurring Income: Building assets that pay you every month is the key to long-term financial independence.

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

• Manish Kataria (LinkedIn)
• Government Pension Tracing Service (for lost pensions)

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Wealth Talk, where we explore the strategies, tools, and mindset shifts that help you build lasting wealth. This week, host Christian Rodwell is joined by Karen Williams, book mentor and founder of Librotas, who helps coaches, consultants, and business owners turn their ideas into impactful books that elevate their authority and attract new opportunities.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

• The Real Value of a Book:
  Why books rarely make you rich from sales alone, but can transform your business as part of your wider intellectual property and personal brand.
   
• Who Should Write a Book?
  Ideal candidates, including entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants, and CEOs seeking to boost their credibility and open new opportunities.
   
• Karen’s Story:
  How publishing her first book changed her business, and why the process is both easier and more competitive today.
   
• Unexpected Opportunities:
  Real-life client stories—from global speaking gigs to film projects—that started with publishing a book.
   
• Practical Tips to Get Started:
  Why structure and planning are essential, overcoming “blank page syndrome,” and how to avoid overcomplicating the process.
   
• The ‘Smart Author’ Process:
  Karen’s step-by-step system for moving from idea to publication, including messaging, structure, writing, feedback, editing, and launch.
   
• Publishing Options Explained:
  A simple breakdown of self-publishing, hybrid, and traditional publishing—plus how to choose what’s right for you.
   
• Marketing Your Book:
  Building your list as you write, leveraging social media and podcasts, and using your network for a successful launch.
   
• The Role of AI:
  How tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly can support the writing and editing process—without replacing your unique voice.
   
• Karen’s Free Resource:
  Download Karen’s “9 Pieces of Content Hiding in Your Business” to help you uncover valuable content you already have.
   
• Summer Writing Challenge:
  Details on Karen’s upcoming writing challenge, including workshops, AI training, and group writing sessions to help you finally get your book done.

Action Steps:

• Reflect: “How would you feel if you didn’t write your book?” Karen’s final advice is to consider the opportunity cost of waiting.
• Download Karen’s free resource: Get the “9 Pieces of Content Hiding in Your Business” —plus full details about the upcoming Summer Writing Challenge once they are available

Links & Resources

• Karen Williams "9 Pieces of Content Hiding in Your Business" - Download here
• Karen Williams LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas
• Karen Williams Facebook: facebook.com/librotas
• Karen Williams Instagram: instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas
• Karen Williams X(formerly Twitter): x.com/librotas

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Wealth Talk, where we explore the strategies, tools, and mindset shifts that help you build lasting wealth. This week, host Christian Rodwell is joined by Paul Green, a former airline pilot turned sales strategist, who now helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses by building genuine connections through WhatsApp.

Key Topics & Takeaways

1. Paul’s Entrepreneurial Journey

• From losing his pilot job during the pandemic to launching a resilience training business.
• Creative outreach with Lego and QR codes led to unexpected NHS conversations and a £3M contract offer.

2. Why WhatsApp?

• 92% of the UK population uses WhatsApp.
• Achieves up to 95% open rates—far surpassing email and phone.
• It’s where real conversations and relationships happen.

3. Sales & Marketing ‘Flight Plan

• Adapting aviation principles: Takeoff (initiate), Cruise (nurture), Landing (close the sale).
• Automation should enhance—not replace—the human experience.

4. Humanising Your Messaging

• Use video, voice notes, and even selfies for personal, authentic touchpoints.
• Don’t over-polish—background noise and informal messages build trust.

5. WhatsApp in Action

• Case studies: Schools sending personalised videos, event/webinar invitations, and ongoing client updates.
• Dramatic improvements in webinar attendance and lead engagement when using WhatsApp over email.

6. Automation & AI

• Start manually, then layer in automation for speed (e.g., instant replies to new leads).
• AI can help with FAQs, but always offer a route to a real person.

7. Common Mistakes

• Trying to sound too corporate or scripted.
• Failing to respond quickly—speed is critical for conversions.

8. Paul’s WhatsApp Playbook

• Free resource: Campaign templates, strategies, and a walkthrough webinar.
• Available at clientfunnels.co.uk—download triggers a WhatsApp conversation with Paul.

9. Paul’s Challenge to Listeners

• Message 10 people on WhatsApp in the next 10 minutes and see what happens!

Links & Resources

• Paul Green LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/paul-green-fo
• Paul's Playbook: clientfunnels.co.uk/wealth
• Paul on Facebook: facebook.com/paul.greenld
• Paul on Instagram: instagram.com/paulgreenId

Connect with WealthBuilders

• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
• For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!

Next Steps On Your Wealth Building Journey: 

• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders

If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform.

Welcome to another insightful episode of WealthTalk, where we explore the strategies, tools, and mindset shifts that help you build lasting wealth. This week, host Christian Rodwell is joined by Jon Rumens, founder of FocusMe, a powerful tool designed to help individuals and businesses master their time, block distractions, and supercharge productivity.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Time Trap: Why distractions and poor time management are the #1 reason people struggle to build wealth.
• Jon’s Wealth-Building Story: How joining a Property Mastermind inspired Jon to set up a SSAS pension and invest in property and business ventures.
• Birth of FocusMe: Jon’s frustration with digital distractions led him to build FocusMe—a robust tool that blocks time-wasting sites and helps users stay on task.
• Recurring Income & Freedom: Jon’s transition from side hustle to full-time entrepreneur, and why recurring income is key to flexibility and financial independence.
• ReclaimTime for Teams: How Jon expanded his focus tool for businesses, enabling organisations to track digital behaviour, support employee wellbeing, and boost productivity.
• Practical Tips for Listeners: Jon shares actionable strategies for reclaiming your time, including focus blocks, starting with one habit at a time, and using tech tools to automate discipline.
• Special Offers: WealthTalk listeners get a 2-week free trial of FocusMe and 20% off their first subscription (use code: WealthTalk). Businesses can try ReclaimTime free for 30 days.

Why This Matters for WealthBuilders

Time is your most valuable asset. Whether you’re an ambitious employee, solopreneur, business owner, or property professional, mastering your schedule and eliminating distractions is critical for building wealth. Jon’s story and solutions align perfectly with the WealthBuilders philosophy: leverage your assets, systemise your habits, and focus on what matters most.

Key Quotes

• “It kind of puts your discipline on autopilot.” – Jon Rumens
• “The best strategy for changing habits is to focus on one thing at a time.” – Jon Rumens
• “Recurring income gives you the freedom to be your own boss.” – Jon Rumens

Resources Mentioned:

• FocusMe – Productivity and Focus App
• WealthBuilders – Personalised Wealth Plans
• Coupon Code: WealthTalk (for 20% off FocusMe subscription)

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to WealthTalk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
• Follow us on YouTube and join the conversation.
• For WealthBuilders members, access exclusive resources through the Wealth Hub.

Next Steps On Your Wealth Building Journey: 

• Ready to reclaim your time and accelerate your wealth journey? Try FocusMe today and let us know your results!
• Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community
• Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team
• Become a member of WealthBuilders
• If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!