🧇 The Weekly Waffle – Academy Town Hall Highlights January 10th, 2025 📅

Story of the Week

🌍 Join the M-Power Movement to Eradicate Poverty 💡

Poverty isn’t just about income—it’s about opportunity. That’s why we’ve launched the M-Power Movement, a transformative initiative helping people take control of their finances through self-directed planning and holistic support. Together, we’re breaking barriers, building resilience, and driving real change. Let’s make empowerment a global force for good. 💪 👉 Read more.  🌍

Steve Conley: Editor, The Weekly Waffle

✨ 2025: A Year of Opportunity and Growth! 🚀

We’re kicking off 2025 with purpose and passion! This week, we’re exploring income inequality, holistic financial readiness, spiritual well-being, and life’s big questions. We’ll reflect on 2024’s successes, rethink New Year’s resolutions, and ask: can money buy happiness? Plus, exciting new masterclasses await—helping you embrace clarity, purpose, and positive change in the year ahead! Let’s make it happen together. 🌟 [Steve is the author of 👉 Your Money or Your Life]

Top Stories

🌟 Investing in People: Closing the Gaps 🌟

Tackling income inequality starts with investing in people. By prioritising education and health, we can reduce poverty and empower communities to thrive. As financial planners, we’re uniquely positioned to guide clients in aligning financial strategies with human capital investment—creating lasting opportunities and fairness. 💡 Let’s build a brighter future together! 🌟 Read more. 💬✨

🚀 Discover Your Potential as a Holistic Financial Planner!

Take our free 4-minute assessment and unlock tailored tips to help you thrive. Answer 36 quick questions and receive a personalised report with insights across 8 key areas like purpose, profit, and promotion. Whether you’re exploring a new career or boosting your skills, this tool helps you make a meaningful impact. Start your journey today! 🌟 Read more. 💬✨

🌟 Embracing Spiritual Wellbeing for a Fulfilling Life 🌟

Spiritual wellbeing isn’t about religion—it’s about connecting with your values and living a purpose-driven life. It bridges mind, body, heart, and spirit, helping you find meaning and alignment. Whether you’re seeking personal growth or enhancing your practice, exploring this often-missing pillar can transform your approach to wellbeing. Let’s journey towards a more holistic and fulfilling life together! ✨ Read more. 💬✨

🌟 Who Am I and Why Am I Here? 🌟

Life’s biggest questions lead to the deepest clarity. At the Academy of Life Planning, we help you uncover your values, talents, and purpose to design a meaningful, values-led life. By reflecting on your unique journey, you can unlock direction, impact, and your favourite future. Ready to explore? Let’s start your journey today! ✨ Read more. 😅

🎄 Reflecting on a Transformational 2024! 🎉

What a year it’s been for the Academy of Life Planning! From launching HapNav v2.0 to winning awards for Outstanding Contribution to Finance, 2024 has been full of milestones and growth. In our latest article, we share key highlights, inspiring testimonials, and a glimpse of the exciting updates coming in 2025. Let’s celebrate our journey and look ahead to another incredible year together! 🌟 👉 Read more. 📈😅

🎉 Ditch Resolutions, Embrace Real Change! 🌟

Are New Year’s resolutions the best way to grow? Russell Bignell of Encompass Coaching thinks not! In this insightful article, he shares why small, consistent actions matter more than sweeping January promises. By focusing on daily intentions and setting SMART goals, you can achieve meaningful progress without the overwhelm. Let’s make growth sustainable this year! 👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌍✨ Unlocking Human Potential for a Fairer World ✨🐠

Human capital is more than education—it’s a balance of mindset, skills, community, and purpose. Like a thriving ecosystem, mental, physical, social, and spiritual capital must work together for true growth. Discover how this holistic approach can reduce inequality and eradicate poverty, creating a world where everyone can flourish. 🌱💡👉 Read More. 😅

🌟 Social Fitness: The Secret to Happiness 🌟

Harvard’s 85-year study shows it’s not wealth or success but the quality of our relationships that makes life fulfilling. Yet, with the loss of communal spaces like pubs, libraries, and theatres, connection is at risk. Social well-being is vital for our emotional, mental, and physical health. Let’s prioritise social fitness by building meaningful connections and creating communities where we truly belong. 💬🤝👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌞 Can Money Buy Happiness? Let’s Find Out! 💷✨

Does more money mean more happiness? In our latest article, we unpack the link between wealth and well-being. From the "threshold hypothesis" of how much is enough, to spending on time, experiences, and giving back, we explore how to align your finances with your values for a fulfilling life. 🌍🕒 Ready to rethink your relationship with money? Let’s dive in! 🚀👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Unlock the Power of Human Capital! 🌟

Wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about your unique skills, knowledge, and life experiences. In our article, we explore how human capital shapes your financial future. Discover the link between education, leadership, and earnings, and learn how to take charge of your potential. It’s time to rethink wealth and build a secure, fulfilling life. 💡🚀👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Graduates Unlock Your Human Capital for a Life of Purpose! 💡💪

Feeling stuck in the grind? The secret to breaking free isn’t just chasing financial capital—it’s unlocking your human capital! 💎 This is your unique mix of skills, passions, and potential. By defining your goals, identifying your strengths, and creating a sustainable plan, you can build a work-life balance that truly works for YOU. Let’s create a life of purpose and balance together! 🌿✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🐘 Rethinking the 2025 Pensions Review 🚨

The upcoming pensions review is expanding its focus to include savings and property, but it’s still missing a crucial piece: human capital—our lifetime earning potential. Ignoring this risks creating unbalanced incentives, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. In my latest article, I explore how integrating earnings with savings can lead to a fairer, more inclusive retirement system. Let’s challenge the status quo together! 🌟👉 Read more. 📈😅

💬 Can We Redefine Banking's Reputation? 🌟

Bankers are often labelled as "greedy," but this perception doesn’t tell the whole story. While scandals and short-term profits have tarnished the industry’s image, many professionals are genuinely committed to helping people and businesses thrive. It’s time for a shift—prioritising transparency, ethical leadership, and long-term impact. Let’s build a banking culture that serves not just profits but people and progress, fostering trust and integrity in finance. 🤝✨

👉Read more. 📈😅

💡 Building Trust in Financial Services Starts Here 💡

For too long, the line between advice and sales has blurred, eroding trust and leaving 92% of the UK underserved. It’s time for a change. At the Academy of Life Planning, we’re championing Generic Independent Financial Advisers (GenIFAs)—impartial professionals free from product provider ties. Through the M-Power movement, we’re bridging the advice gap with tools, education, and support, reshaping financial planning with transparency and independence. Together, let’s create a fairer, more trustworthy market for everyone. 🌟💼

👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Empowering Clients Through Equitable Financial Planning 🌟

As Generic Independent Financial Advisers (GenIFAs), we have a unique role in fostering financial stability and upward mobility. By integrating insights from income inequality studies, we can guide clients to prioritise education and skill development—investing in their future and creating tailored plans that build wealth while promoting equitable opportunities. Together, let’s create a brighter, fairer future! 🤝✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌍 Transforming Lives Through Financial Planning 🌟

As GenIFAs, we have the power to do more than manage finances—we can empower change. Studies show that investing in health, education, and nutrition—the core of human capital—can break cycles of poverty and reduce inequality. By prioritising essentials like healthcare and education, we can guide families towards sustainable futures and financial security. Together, let’s create brighter opportunities for all. 🌱✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Financial Advice at Your Fingertips 🌟

Imagine having instant, impartial financial insights right in your pocket. With ChatGPT now integrated into WhatsApp, you can ask questions, learn at your pace, and make confident decisions—without the pressure of sales-driven advice.

📱 Convenient. 🤝 Accessible. 💡 Empowering.

Financial knowledge is now for everyone. Curious to see how it works? Explore this exciting new era of financial planning in my article! 🚀✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Your Greatest Asset Is YOU! 🌟

Financial planning is about more than just money—it’s about nurturing your skills, knowledge, and resilience to build a fulfilling future. By focusing on your human capital, you can create a holistic, empowering plan aligned with your unique goals. Let’s move beyond managing money and start investing in what truly matters—YOU. 💡✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

💡 Are Financial Advice Firms as Secure as They Seem? 💭

With 13 firms declared in default in just two months, it’s time to rethink how we approach financial planning. At the Academy of Life Planning, we empower YOU to take control of your financial future. Our latest article uncovers why some firms fail, the risks for consumers, and practical steps to protect yourself and your investments. Let’s boost financial literacy and embrace a future where YOU hold the power. 🌟💪👉 Read more. 📈😅

💡 Justice for Financial Consumers: Is It Finally Coming?

The collapse of Tenet has left nearly 10,000 customers in financial limbo, highlighting serious flaws in the system. While the FCA’s proposed “polluter pays” model aims to hold firms accountable, is it enough? At the Academy of Life Planning, we believe consumers deserve more—knowledge, protection, and systemic reform. Justice isn’t just necessary—it’s overdue. Let’s push for change together. 🌟💪👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Navigating Challenges as a Financial Adviser 🌟

St. James's Place advisers face increasing pressures, from loan repayments to shifting valuations and fee-for-no-service reviews. Now is the time to take control of your future. By planning thoughtfully and exploring all options, you can align your professional goals with personal aspirations. In this article, we explore: ✅ How economic conditions affect valuations. ✅ Alternative pathways, like holistic wealth planning. ✅ Building a sustainable, values-driven practice. Stay ahead, adapt, and create a future that supports your well-being and success. Start building brighter possibilities today. 💡✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

💷 Protect Your Savings: Lessons from the Collateral Case 🔒

Your hard-earned savings deserve protection. In our latest article, we share practical tips to help you spot potential scams, navigate the FCA register, and safeguard your financial future. Learn from the Collateral case and ensure you’re equipped to make informed decisions. Let’s build a secure financial future together. 💡✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🎩 Justice Denied: When Power Overrules Fairness ⚖️

Fighting for justice can feel like shouting into a void. Lat month highlights two troubling examples: 📌 The Labour government dismissing the Ombudsman's recommendations for the Waspi women. 📌 The FCA rejecting its Complaints Commissioner's ruling on an unfair fee. It seems "independence" only matters when it’s convenient for those in charge, leaving ordinary people to battle clunky systems and red tape. Let’s push for accountability and a fairer system for everyone. 🌟🙌 👉 Read more. 😅

🎅💰 A Dickensian Christmas for the Many, Champagne for the Few 💷

While 60% of Brits are living paycheque to paycheque, the government is handing out regulatory gifts to the City’s elite. From unaffordable pension schemes for young workers to unchecked investment sales, these policies widen wealth gaps and leave ordinary people struggling. The result? More homelessness, greater inequality, and empty promises of “jam tomorrow.” It’s time to stand up, speak out, and demand a fairer future for everyone. Enough is enough! 📢✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

💼💷 Five Pro-Growth Ideas We Should All Question 🤔🏦

As the FCA responds to calls for economic “growth,” here’s what might make their wishlist—though it reads more like a Dickensian twist: 1️⃣ Letting investment sellers off the hook—because accountability isn’t fashionable. 2️⃣ Pushing low-income workers into unaffordable pensions—future hunger isn’t growth. 3️⃣ Quietly shelving a Supreme Court case—fairness, too expensive to fund. 4️⃣ Ignoring 20 years of “fees for no service”—keeping big institutions untouchable. 5️⃣ Increasing Ombudsman fees—making justice harder for the vulnerable. The likely outcome? More for the powerful, less for the people. Growth for inequality is no progress at all. Let’s demand a system that works for everyone. 📢⚖️✨👉 Read more. 📈

📰 2025: "Trust Us, We Know What We’re Doing" 💷

With product providers sharpening sales pitches and the FCA rewriting rules, the lines between advice and guidance are blurring. The result? Fewer consumer protections and long-term investments marketed to those struggling with today’s bills. In our article, we explore the chaos, the opportunities (for some), and what it all means for consumers. Let’s unpack the risks and work towards a fairer, more transparent financial system. 🌟👉 Read more. 📈😅

💷 Fat Cat Bankers Plea for Mercy: A Nation’s Reflection 🌨️

While the City mourns shrinking bonuses and a crumbling stock market, Britons face a harsher reality—choosing between heating and eating this winter. In my latest article, I delve into the absurdity of bankers’ woes amidst a survival crisis for so many. Explore how the greed-fuelled agenda led us here and why a shift towards love, not profit, might just hold the answer. It’s time for a new perspective. 💡❤️👉 Read more. 📈😅

🚨 The Morals of a Calculator: A Safer Bet Than Fee-Driven Advice? 💸🤖

AI might have "the morals of a calculator," but at least it’s not pretending to care while pushing life insurance. Fee-driven advisers, controlled by product providers, continue to blur the lines between advice and sales. Can we really trust them to put your financial wellbeing first? (Spoiler: No.) GenIFAs offer a glimmer of hope with neutral, unbiased guidance, and even AI—flawed as it may be—doesn’t have a sales target. So, what’s the bigger risk: trusting a calculator or a conflicted adviser? 🤔 Have a read, and maybe a laugh, as we unpack the absurdity. 😂👇👉 Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Missed the Mentee Mastery Meeting? Here’s Your Recap! 🌟

Our monthly Mentee Mastery Meeting is your space to build a thriving financial planning practice. Hosted by Steve Conley, this one-hour mentorship clinic is designed to: ✅ Answer your questions with expert, tailored advice. ✅ Celebrate progress and overcome challenges together. ✅ Plan practical steps to achieve your 2025 profit goals. Whether you need clarity, motivation, or new ideas, this is your chance to connect and grow with a community of like-minded mentees. Let’s make 2025 your most successful year yet! 🎯✨👉 Read more. 📈😅

🚀 Elevate Your Financial Planning Practice in 2025! 🌟

Introducing The Game Plan Evolution: CPD Masterclass Series (Season 2)—your transformative journey to professional growth. Led by Steve Conley, these masterclasses offer practical tools, fresh insights, and strategies to create lasting impact. Whether you want to refine your skills, embrace innovation, or align your practice with your values, this series is your opportunity to thrive in 2025. Let’s grow together! ✨💼  Read more. 📈😅

🌟 Share the Knowledge and Empower Yourself! 🌟 My work is completely "open source," so feel free to copy, share, and spread the word as much as you like—because everyone deserves access to valuable knowledge. Let’s build a community where learning and growth are open to all. 

Thanks for being an Academy subscriber! 🌟 By stepping up to full Academy Membership at just £19 per month, you'll unlock a whole suite of tools, training, and resources—making sure newsletters like this one keep delivering value. We're here to ensure you get the most from your membership while being part of a movement that empowers the underserved. Your journey to financial independence and making a meaningful impact starts here, and we’re excited to walk alongside you. 💪 Ready to take the next step?👉 Join us today!

Downloads

📥 Enhance Your Financial Journey with Free Resources! 💼✨

We’re excited to introduce three powerful tools to support your financial planning journey! 🌟 Dive into the GAME Plan, your guide to holistic financial well-being. Check out the latest HapNav Tech Spec, updated with market and actuarial insights for version 2.0 launch. And don’t miss the Academy of Life Planning Guide, your pathway to becoming a Holistic Wealth Planner. These resources are designed to empower you to take control of your financial future. Download them today and start your journey with confidence! 📚🚀

Scoreapps

⏱️ Discover Your Potential with Our Free 5-Minute Quizzes!

Take a moment to explore where you stand and how to grow with our quick and insightful quizzes:

Financial Activation Scorecard: Measure your Financial Activation Measure (FAM) and discover how financially prepared you are to manage your own finances. Track your progress over time with our tailored empowerment support. 💡

Kokoro Scorecard: Find your balance across mind, body, heart, and spirit, and get actionable steps to enhance it. 🌱

Holistic Wealth Planner/ Business Readiness Quiz: See how prepared you are to thrive as an independent holistic wealth planner, and identify where the Academy can help you succeed in 2025. 🚀 Each quiz is free, quick, and designed to set you on the path to growth and success. Try them today! ✨

Third Party Apps

As we step into 2025, it’s time to prioritise your financial health, your education, and even your physical well-being. 🎉💷 Start the year by staying ahead of key financial changes like tax updates, setting smart savings resolutions, and cutting costs with savvy insurance tips. Want to uncover hidden savings? Learn how to spot heat loss and reduce energy bills, and access expert advice on budgeting like a pro—all with exclusive offers for Which? members. Meanwhile, the MSE Academy of Money, in partnership with the Open University, offers a completely FREE online course to boost your financial skills in budgeting, borrowing, saving, and more—perfect for setting solid money goals. Finally, your postcode could reveal more than just your address. The Telegraph’s interactive map sheds light on disparities in healthy life expectancy across the UK. From Blackpool to Cheshire East, it’s a stark reminder to align financial planning with long-term health and happiness goals. 💪✨

Member Live Events:

Unlock Your Potential in 2025!  CPD Masterclass: First Live Session of Season 2 is here! 

Join us on Tuesday, 14th January 2025, at 2:00 PM (GMT) for “The Evolutionary Coach: Unlocking Human Potential” 

🌟 Unlock Purpose and Growth in Your Clients 🌟

In this transformative session, we’ll explore how to:

✨ Help your clients uncover their higher purpose and align their strengths.
🌱 Foster self-awareness, inspire growth, and guide meaningful change.
🧠 Master the seven stages of psychological development, from Surviving to Serving.

Whether your clients are just beginning their journey or seeking deeper purpose, this session will provide practical tools to help them thrive.

📅 Register now as an Academy member to access:
✔️ This live session on 14th January.
✔️ All Season 2 sessions and recordings from Season 1.
✔️ Exclusive resources and support to elevate your practice.

Let’s make meaningful change together! 🌟✨

Secure Your Place Today: Register Here.

Let’s make 2025 your year of growth, transformation, and success! 

🚀 Exciting News: HapNav v2.0 is Here! 🌟

Discover how HapNav, your trusted Happiness Navigator, has just become even better! Last month, HapNav v2.0 launched with powerful upgrades designed to help you take full control of your financial future.

What Makes HapNav Special?

For just £6.99 a month (with a free 30-day trial), HapNav transforms financial planning with:
✅ Lifetime cash flow forecasting to spot shortfalls and achieve your goals.
✅ ‘What-if’ scenario modelling to explore all your options.
✅ Legacy and retirement planning for peace of mind.
✅ Real-time updates via Open Banking, ensuring your data is always up-to-date.

HapNav isn’t just an app – it’s your personal partner in achieving financial independence. It empowers you to navigate your finances confidently and live your best life. Read More.

What’s New in v2.0?

🎉 Enhanced visuals: Easier navigation and clearer displays.
🎉 Faster, safer Open Banking: Manage your finances seamlessly.
🎉 Bug fixes: A smoother, more reliable experience.

Support When You Need It

Whether you’re a seasoned user or new to HapNav, help is always on hand:
🌟 Free training for Academy members through HapNav Mastery Live sessions.
🌟 Step-by-step guidance to get the most from your app.

Why Wait? Take the First Step Today

Your financial future starts here. Sign up at www.hapnav.com, try HapNav free for 30 days, and discover how simple and stress-free financial planning can be.

HapNav: Your Future, in Your Hands.
Empower yourself today – because you deserve financial security, clarity, and confidence. 🚀

🍷🚪 Curtain Call, Town Hall Warriors!

You’ve just survived another round of the Academy’s infamous Friday Lunch Bunch. 🏆 Scatter freely, but oh—plot twist: there's homework. Because of course, there is. 📚 Check out the hyperlinks we’ve tossed around like a trail of digital breadcrumbs. 📎 Consider the gossip mill officially closed for the week.

If you’re craving a blast from the past, 👉 browse through our legendary pranks or join us next week on 👉 Friday, January 17th, 12:00 noon UK 🎟️🕛 🌟 That’s a Wrap for Today’s Broadcast 🎙️

Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, keep those waffles waving and your spirits high! 🧇🌟

Best year ever,

Steve 

Academy of Life Planning 🧀

Email: steve.conley@aolp.co.uk

P.S.Buckle up, financial adventurers, and dive into the latest blog from the Academy of Life Planning (AoLP) – your self-proclaimed partner in transformational financial life planning. 🌟📚 Check out their latest post and learn how to turn your financial dreams into reality—or at least a well-organized plan. Happy navigating! 🚀💼  Academy of Life Planning: Your Partner in Transformational Financial Life Planning

P.P.S. If you know anyone who would like to be added to our mailing list, please share this link.

Websites: Steve Conley, Academy of Life Planning, Planning My Life, Financial Life Coach, Steve's Blog.

Copyright the Academy of Life Planning Limited 2024. Contact us by email at info@aolp.co. The Academy of Life Planning Limited is a service sector trading company regulated by the Competition and Markets Authority and Registered in England and Wales number 8016568. Registered office address 9 Franklin Way, Spilsby, Lincolnshire, PE23 5GG, United Kingdom. Information Commissioner's Office reference number ZA502687.

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