Money Talks: Protecting the modern worker's income

Money Talks: Protecting the modern worker's income

Mortgage advisers frequently encounter clients with complex, modern income streams. In this episode of the Money Talks podcast, host and digital content manager Kimberley Dondo sits down with Royal London’s Gregor Sked and CIExpert’s Paul Roberts to discuss CIExpert’s Critical Thinking 2026 report. They dive into how to overcome advice friction for self-employed and contract workers, and how to align protection products with the changing realities of client retirement timelines.

Money Talks: Economic Abuse

In this episode Shelley Reid from Royal London discusses the rise of economic and financial abuse, explains the difference between them, and shares real-life examples showing how control over money, property, benefits and mobility can be used to coerce victims. She outlines which groups are at higher risk, the effects on mortgages, protection products and debt, and practical red flags for advisors, friends and family to watch for. The episode closes with clear, compassionate advice on how to respond—listen, believe, signpost support services and ensure staff are trained to identify and help those experiencing economic abuse.

Money Talks – Putting Protection Viewpoint insights into action – Part 2

In this episode of Money Talks, Kimberley Dondo is joined by Stacey Penn (The Association of Mortgage Intermediaries) and Shelley Reid (Royal London) discuss why positioning protection conversations earlier in the mortgage journey increases uptake. They cover practical ways advisors can embed these discussions — using clear language, leveraging mortgage documents as prompts, asking what clients want to happen rather than focusing on fears, and emphasizing the human value of advice. The episode also highlights FCA nudges, referral opportunities, and the importance of supporting advisors with provider coaching.

The Home Is the Pension: Why Property Must Be in Retirement Plans

Kimberly Dondo interviews Will Hale, CEO of Key Equity Release and Answers in Retirement, about the coming inheritance tax changes in 2027, rising pension withdrawals, and the role of property wealth in retirement planning. They discuss lifetime mortgages, advice silos, referral pathways for brokers, and practical steps advisors should take to include homeowners' equity in holistic financial plans.

Money Talks – Putting Protection Viewpoint insights into action – Part 1

In this episode Shelly Reid (Senior Protection Technical Manager, Royal London) and Stacey Penn (Head of Policy, AMI) discuss findings from the 2025 AMI Protection Viewpoint research and focus on how advisors can better serve renters—an underserved and growing segment—through income and lifestyle protection. They cover practical opportunities for advisers, including building long-term client relationships, using internal and external referrals, protecting deposits and credit scores, educating younger clients about income protection, and timing protection conversations around remortgages and product transfers.