In this episode of Just Covered, we meet Andrew Jenkins – an inspirational individual with a background in sales and business leadership. He’s also well known as a contestant from BBC One’s popular series, The Traitors. In 1999, Andrew’s life was turned completely upside down by a horrific road accident. The experience and subsequent recovery led him to become a dedicated advocate for wellbeing and personal growth. Today, he works as a mental health coach and motivational speaker, while supporting numerous charities. Remarkably honest and open about his struggles – his story is powerful, thought-provoking and universally relevant. Don’t miss this one.

This episode also covers:

· Steps and considerations for properly supporting the other people in your life, whether that’s relatives, colleagues or friends and having honest and meaningful conversations.

· Building a growth mindset, overcoming fear of failure and being your most-authentic self, both personally and professional.

· Breaking down traditional stigmas around counselling and mental health support, especially for men.

Matt Brown | Recognising opportunity: Supporting the next generation of intermediaries

In this episode of Just Covered, we meet Matt Brown – HL Partnership’s new Propositions Director. Already a respected figure in the mortgage sector, Matt has 20 years’ experience working at firms like PRIMIS Mortgage Network, eConveyancer and NatWest. We were delighted to discuss his career so far, as well as the challenges and opportunities he currently sees in the intermediary space. We also heard about HLP’s success at our BQA awards. And, we got to uncover some of his key tips for new advisers and intermediaries, especially around training and embracing emerging technologies.

This episode also covers:

· Balancing risk and customer needs when developing propositions.

· The importance maintaining a balance between work and personal life and the role of discipline in achieving this.

· The role of new technology, including AI, in enhancing adviser efficiency and customer interaction, as well as supporting personalised advice.

Sidney Wager | Guiding professional growth: Being comfortable with the uncomfortable

In this episode of Just Covered, we meet Sidney Wager, newly appointed Managing Director at L&C. Well known across the Mortgage industry, Sidney stands out for his diverse, sector-spanning career. Something that not only gives him an original industry perspective but has, no doubt, informed his success over multiple decades and roles. During our chat, he’s able to share some real gems about career longevity, professional agility, adapting to change, and confronting new challenges.

This episode also covers:

· The role of mentoring and support in delivering the next generation of financial talent.

· Embracing professional growth and navigating new roles and confronting other key challenges with confidence.

· The importance of understanding the customer's voice and having a broad skill set to be a strong leader.