Mortgage Strategy Podcast: Recent Episodes
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Mortgage Strategy brings you an all-new podcast featuring leading industry figures speaking to editor Rebekah Commane and guest speakers from our sister publication Money Marketing.
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.
AI is transforming the mortgage industry at pace, but are brokers fully aware of the risks?
In this special Mortgage Strategy podcast, Mortgage Brain CEO Zahid Bilgrami joins James Prosser to discuss the launch of the Mortgage Brain AI Charter and the four pillars every broker and firm should understand before adopting AI: Cost, Intellectual Property, Consistency and Speed.
From client data risks and Consumer Duty concerns to the difference between purpose-built mortgage AI and public AI tools, this episode explores the opportunities, pitfalls and practical realities of AI in mortgage advice.
Mortgage Strategy Podcast
If you’re a broker, network, lender or firm principal looking to adopt AI safely and strategically, this is essential listening.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In this episode of Money Talks, host interviews Gregor Sked from Royal London to unpack the FCA's Pure Protection Market review. They discuss how the review is a signal rather than an intervention, the engagement and protection gaps affecting many households, and the growing importance of consumer duty, claims outcomes, trusts and clear explanations of income protection.
Gregor offers practical advice for advisers: embed protection in everyday planning, use client stories to explain outcomes, document value and review policies regularly, and prepare for the FCA's final conclusions while continuing to focus on delivering fair value and good customer outcomes.
For practical guidance on wider technical and regulatory protection topics, visit Royal London’s Technical Central:
https://adviser.royallondon.com/technical-central/protection-guidance/
Money Talks
Chris Lynch from Source Insurance joins Kimberley Dondo to unpack what AI really means for mortgage advisers in the general insurance space.
From practical tools already making a difference to the challenges of integration and regulation, Chris shares where AI can enhance advice and where the human touch remains essential.
He also tackles concerns around job security, vulnerable customers, and how advisers can cut through the hype to focus on what actually works.
Listen now:
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast, Kimberley Dondo speaks with Jennifer Gilchrist, Proposition Specialist, and Shelley Read, Senior Protection Development and Technical Manager at Royal London, to explore the growing mental health crisis in the UK and its impact on families and the insurance industry.
They discuss how protection products and integrated support services can help bridge the gap left by NHS delays, how advisers can confidently address mental health in client conversations, and what underwriting considerations come into play when a client has a mental health history.
Mortgage advisers & brokers— want to ensure smoother claims for your clients? Get more resources and support from Royal London today!
Listen to the previous episodes in the series here.
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast, host Kimberley Dondo is joined by Gregor Sked and Shelley Read, Senior Protection Development and Technical Managers at Royal London, to explore why protection often feels out of reach for younger clients — and why that mindset needs to change.
They unpack the most common myths holding young people back, the key messages that really resonate, and how advisers can reframe protection as a smart, proactive step for the next generation. From surprising trends in younger client applications to tips for tailoring advice, this episode is a must-listen for any adviser looking to future-proof their business.
Mortgage advisers & brokers— want to ensure smoother claims for your clients? Get more resources and support from Royal London today!
Listen to the previous episodes in the series here.
Delayed claims can cause unnecessary stress for clients, families, and advisers. In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast, Kimberley Dondo is joined by Julie Douglas, Senior Claims Assessor at Royal London, to uncover the biggest causes of claim delays—and what advisers can do to keep things moving smoothly. From common pitfalls to the power of clear communication, Julie shares expert insights to help you manage expectations and reduce processing times. Plus, discover how Royal London supports clients and advisers during the claims process.
Mortgage advisers & brokers— want to ensure smoother claims for your clients? Get more resources and support from Royal London today!
Listen to the previous episodes in the series here.
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast, Kimberley Dondo is joined by Shelley Read, Senior Protection Development and Technical Manager, and Stephan Nandadasa, Senior Account Manager at Royal London, to explore how mortgage advisers can help clients get faster underwriting decisions.
They discuss the most common reasons for delays, what underwriters wish advisers knew, and practical ways to avoid common application pitfalls. Plus, Shelley and Stephan share expert insights into Royal London’s underwriting approach and how advisers can use it to their advantage.
Listen to the previous episodes in the series here.
Discover how real-life protection claims can be your most powerful tool for engaging clients and demonstrating the true value of your advice. Kimberley Dondo speaks with Royal London's Shelley Read and Stephan Nandadasa about the impact of sharing claims stories, how to introduce them effectively, and how Royal London supports advisers. Plus, get resources from Royal London to further enhance your client conversations.
In this special Awards edition of the Mortgage Strategy podcast, Kimberley Dondo sits down with Andrew Montlake, CEO, Brand Evangelist & Spokesperson at Coreco, to discuss their win as Diversity & Inclusion Broker Champion at the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Andrew shares how Coreco has embedded inclusivity into its DNA, the impact on their business, and advice for others looking to drive meaningful change. Plus, don’t miss your chance to be part of next year’s celebrations—book your tables now for the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards!
Kimberley Dondo sits down with Paul McGonigle, CEO of Positive Lending, to unpack their victory as Best Broker for Short-term Lending at the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards. From overcoming industry challenges to refining customer strategies, Paul shares the secrets behind their success—and what’s next for this dynamic sector. Inspired by this year’s winners? Don’t miss your chance to shine—book your tables now for the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards!
In this special Mortgage Strategy Podcast episode, Kimberley Dondo sits down with Kate Fuller, Business Principal at Mortgage Advice Bureau and winner of Best Mortgage Broker (fewer than eight advisers) at the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Kate shares what the award means to her team, how they deliver standout service with a small but mighty setup, and how they’re embracing tech and training to stay ahead in a shifting market.
Tune in for insights, inspiration—and a reminder to book your table for the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards. You won’t want to miss it!
Kimberley Dondo speaks with Peter Brodnicki, CEO of Mortgage Advice Bureau, winner of Best Mortgage Broker (more than 50 advisers) at the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Peter shares insights on innovation, customer service, and business growth. Don’t miss out—book your table for the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards.
The mortgage market is changing, and brokers need to adapt. In this episode of In Conversation With..., host Kimberley Dondo speaks with Nick Parker, Head of Clubs and Networks at Together, about why now is the right time for Together to re-enter the Network & Clubs space. They discuss the biggest challenges brokers face, the rise of specialist lending, and how brokers can position themselves as trusted advisers beyond just mortgages.
Nick also shares practical insights on navigating complex cases, accessing Together’s diverse product range, and the key mindset shifts brokers need to thrive.
Tune in now – and for more resources to support your specialist lending journey, visit togethermoney
In this special Mortgage Strategy Awards episode, Kimberley Dondo speaks with Nicola McKenzie, Co-Founder of The Dunham McCarthy Group, winner of the Best Broker for Digital Innovation award. Nicola shares insights into the firm’s pioneering use of technology, social media strategies, and the future of digital innovation in the mortgage industry.
Don’t miss this celebration of excellence—and make sure to book your table for the 2025 Mortgage Strategy Awards!
Join us for this special episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast as we celebrate the Mortgage Strategy Awards 2025! We’re speaking with Steve Humphries, Proposition Director - Mortgages at Mortgage Advice Bureau, about winning Best Broker for Equity Release.
Steve shares insights on the evolving demand for equity release, the keys to outstanding customer service, and how MAB stays ahead in a changing market.
Don’t miss out on the Oscars of the mortgage industry! Secure your place at the Mortgage Strategy Awards 2025—book your table now!
In the first episode of The Mortgage Strategy Awards Podcast series, Kimberley Dondo interviews Lizzie Teale, Administration Manager at Create Finance, following her win at the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Lizzie shares her inspiring journey into mortgage administration, insights on team collaboration, and how her expertise shapes exceptional customer service. She also discusses the role of technology in the industry and offers valuable advice for aspiring administrators. Tune in now:
Don’t miss this year’s Mortgage Strategy Awards – book your table now for the Oscars of the mortgage industry!
In this episode of the Pensions and Protection Podcast, Kimberley Dondo chats with Gregor Sked, Senior Protection Development and Technical Manager at Royal London, to explore the meaning of value in the protection space. From insightful research on how advisers and clients perceive value to tackling the Protection Gap, Gregor shares strategies to align adviser approaches with client needs.
Get inspired by his actionable takeaways – listen now!
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Podcast, Kimberley Dondo sits down with Lucy Lewis, National Accounts Lead at Skipton Building Society, to discuss their innovative Track Record Mortgage. Lucy explains how this unique mortgage product leverages rental history to help first-time buyers, including recent updates that expand access to new-build flats and shared ownership. We dive into Skipton’s dedication to supporting first-time buyers, key market trends, and practical advice for mortgage advisers. Tune in:
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy podcast, host Kimberley Dondo sits down with Islay Robinson, CEO of Enness Global, to delve into the world of super prime lending. Islay explains what sets super prime lending apart from traditional mortgages and shares his journey into the high-net-worth finance sector. They discuss the evolution and current trends of the UK’s super prime market, the challenges brought by the recent economic climate, and the intricate details of underwriting and risk assessment for ultra-wealthy clients. Islay also offers valuable advice for mortgage advisors keen to venture into this niche. Tune in now:
Join Kimberley Dondo and Tanya Elmaz, Director of Intermediary Relations at Together, as they delve into the complexities of today's residential property market. Discover why specialist lending is on the rise and how brokers can best support clients with complex income challenges and emotional anxieties. Gain valuable insights into Together's wide criteria and quick decision-making process, and learn how to unlock opportunities in the evolving specialist lending landscape.
Out now: Residential property market report
Steered by insights from their latest research and property industry expert commentary, Together’s new report discusses if we’re really on the road to a residential revival and what this means for driving home ownership ambitions forward.
Join us as Rob Barnard, Intermediary Relationship Director at Pepper Money, demystifies second charge mortgages, revealing their growing role in today's mortgage market. Discover how brokers can leverage these versatile tools to expand their services, meet diverse client needs, and adapt to changing financial landscapes. Rob will also debunk common misconceptions, explore real-life use cases, and discuss the evolving fintech landscape shaping the second charge mortgage industry. Don't miss this insightful episode!
For more information on second charge mortgages, visit https://www.pepper.money/broker/second-charge-mortgages/second-charge-mortgage-products/
In this Mortgage Strategy podcast episode, Kimberley Dondo interviews David Jackson, Managing Director of Prestige Private Finance. They discuss significant changes in the mortgage sector, the evolving role of technology, and common misconceptions about mortgages. David shares leadership strategies, advice for those entering the industry, and insights on prioritizing client satisfaction. They also explore innovative approaches within the mortgage industry and address pressing challenges ahead. Tune in now:
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy Awards podcast, host Kimberley Dondo chats with Paul Fenn and Jen Lloyd from Skipton Building Society about their team's shortlisting. They discuss standout qualities, key strategies, and future industry trends. The conversation also covers adaptation plans, upcoming innovations, fostering collaboration, advice for standing out, and the rewarding aspects of working in the mortgage industry. Listen now:
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy podcast, Kimberley Dondo talks to Jon Cooper, Head of Mortgages at Aldermore Bank. They delve into the current mortgage market, discussing falling interest rates, their impact on remortgagers, and the absence of expected mortgage schemes for first-time buyers. Cooper offers insights into potential benefits, challenges, and risks associated with low deposit mortgages, along with alternative solutions and long-term predictions for the mortgage market. Tune in now:
In this podcast episode, Kimberley Dondo interviews Nicola McKenzie from Dunham McCarthy Financial Services, winners at the 2023 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Nicola shares insights into their award-winning journey, their unique approach to client protection, and future trends in the mortgage industry. She discusses strategic initiatives, technology's role, and the importance of industry recognition. Tune in:
Tune in to the latest Mortgage Strategy Awards podcast episode hosted by Kimberley Dondo, featuring Richard Rowntree, Managing Director Mortgages at Paragon Banking Group. In this insightful conversation, Richard shares his thoughts on winning Mortgage Personality of the Year, the evolving mortgage industry, and the future of technology in customer experiences. Discover his perspectives on diversity, challenges facing mortgage advisers, and valuable advice for aspiring professionals. Don't miss out on this enriching discussion on the present and future of the mortgage sector! Plus, don't forget to book your table for the 2024 Mortgage Strategy Awards.
Join host Kimberley Dondo on Skipton Talks with Mortgage Strategy as she delves into the latest trends and challenges in the housing market with guests Jonathan Evans from Skipton Building Society for Intermediaries and John Doughty from Just Mortgages. From market trends to first-time buyers' needs and innovation in government schemes and lender propositions, this episode explores it all. Tune in for valuable insights and expert perspectives! These views are their own.
In this episode of the Mortgage Strategy podcast Awards series, Kimberley Dondo hosts Gindy Mathoon, Leader at Create Finance, winner of the Best Mortgage Broker award (8-50 advisers) at the 2023 Mortgage Strategy Awards. Join us as we uncover the journey to success, industry insights, and future priorities in this enlightening discussion
Join Kimberley Dondo as she chats with Rob Gill, Managing Director at Altura Mortgage Finance, about his journey to winning the Diversity & Inclusion Broker Champion award at the 2023 Mortgage Strategy Awards. They explore the evolving mortgage industry, strategic moves to stay ahead, and practical advice for fostering diversity within practices. Tune in:
Join Kimberley Dondo and special guest Tony Hall, Head of Business Development at Saffron for Intermediaries, as they delve into the Bank of England's rate decision, the 'rates war' gripping mortgage lenders, and the impact of economic uncertainty. Discover the hidden advantages of self-building and the vital role of specialist lenders in today's market. Tune in now:
In the latest episode of the Mortgage Strategy podcast host Kimberley Dondo and special guest Stephen Ward, Deputy Chief Executive at Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) unravel the Digital Property Market Steering Group (DPMSG) and its role in reshaping the home-buying and selling process.
In the latest episode of the Mortgage Strategy podcast, host Kimberley Dondo engages in a thoughtful conversation with Nick Chadbourne, CEO at LMS. Explore key trends in the UK mortgage market, technology's impact on conveyancing, and LMS's role in streamlining services. Gain insights into tech implementation, efficiency, and the future of conveyancing. Don't miss advice for mortgage advisers on staying ahead in a tech-driven industry. Tune in now:
Join Kimberley Dondo, digital content manager at Mortgage Strategy, in an engaging discussion on the latest episode of Skipton Talks with Mortgage Strategy. She's joined by Lucy Lewis, National Accounts Lead at Skipton, and Robert Sinclair, CEO at AMI.
Discover insights into lender innovation and its impact on first-time buyers, along with Skipton's innovative solutions to support them. They explore initiatives promoting green practices in the mortgage and housing sector, examining their impact on advisers, clients, and the opportunities they present. The conversation also touches on experiences with mentoring schemes, which contribute to creating a more inclusive mortgage advisory sector. Discover the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (ED&I) in the mortgage industry and the many benefits it brings. Listen now!
Host Kim Dondo and guest Craig Brown, CEO at Legal & General Home Finance, discuss using property wealth to aid the next generation in home buying. They cover balancing financial security, equity release, and alternative strategies. Mortgage advisers' crucial role and potential risks are explored, alongside success stories and key takeaways for homeowners and advisers. Tune in now
Join host Kim Dondo in the newest Mortgage Strategy podcast as she discusses AI's impact on mortgages with Thora Kehoe, Chief Product Officer at Smartr365. Delve into the collaboration between AI and human advisers, striking the right balance between efficiency and personalisation, and the transformative potential of AI in the mortgage industry. The conversation also covers vital aspects of security, ethics, and transparency, offering insights into integrating AI for mortgage professionals. Tune in for a glimpse into the future of mortgage advising!
Join host Kim Dondo on the Mortgage Strategy Podcast with guest Danny Belton, Head of Lender Relationships, L&G Mortgage Club at Legal & General, as they delve into the world of 100% LTV mortgages. Discover the potential advantages, risks, and trends in the market. Learn how mortgage advisers can effectively educate clients about these mortgages and suggest alternative options. Gain valuable insights on navigating market fluctuations to provide the best options for clients. Don't miss this informative episode!
In this podcast, Kimberley Dondo is joined by Charlotte Harrison, CEO of Home Financing at Skipton Building Society, and Andrew Montlake, MD at Coreco, to discuss the new, no-deposit, Track Record Mortgage.
Skipton Talks with Mortgage Strategy, in this podcast Skiptons, Interim CEO Home Financing – Charlotte Harrison is joined by Aneisha Beveridge Head of Research at Hamptons as they discuss hot topics in the Buy to Let market.
In the final episode of Radio for Intermediaries, editor Rebekah Commane is joined by HSBC UK’s Head of Intermediaries, Chris Pearson, Michelle Andrews, Head of Buying a Home, HSBC UK and UK Finance Board Member and Robert Sinclair, Chief Executive, AMI, to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by the UK Mortgage Market.
Chris Pearson, Head of Intermediaries, HSBC UK, Stephanie Charman – Head of Strategic Relationships, Sesame, Mobeen Akram – National New Homes Account Director, MAB, Rupi Hunjan – Managing Director, Censeo Financial, speak to Editor, Rebekah Commane about the opportunities and challenges facing the UK Mortgage Market.
In the last episode, Amanda Newman Smith feature writer at Money Marketing, and Gregor Sked, Intermediary Development & Technical Manager from Royal London, discuss how multi-cover protection plans can help advisers satisfy the new Consumer Duty. We’ll also look at how these plans can be tailored to meet clients’ needs and budgets – which is particularly important given the current cost of living crisis.
Amanda Newman Smith features writer at Money Marketing and Gregor Sked, Intermediary Development & Technical Manager from Royal London discuss the Consumer Duty in relation to the cost of living crisis and look at how advisers can make sure they meet the expected requirements of the new Duty when their clients are under increasing financial pressure.
And if you’d like to explore the tools we’ve mentioned today, visit adviser.royallondon.com/building resilience
HSBC UK’s Head of Intermediaries, Chris Pearson and HSBC Group Economist Liz Martins join Deputy Editor, Gary Adams to discuss the current economic climate and the challenges faced by the UK Mortgage Market.
- Amanda Newman Smith is joined by Shelley Read, from Royal London, and Financial Adviser Robyn Allen, from Robyn Allen Solutions, to discuss how the Consumer Duty will benefit clients and their families and take a closer look at what is meant by ‘good outcomes’ in terms of protection.
The Consumer Duty applies to adviser firms of all sizes, so today we’re taking a look at how advisers can start to get ready for the changes.
Amanda Newman Smith is joined by Shelley Read, from Royal London, and Financial Adviser Robyn Allen, from Robyn Allen Solutions, to discuss the new responsibilities that advisers have to fulfil and how providers can help to support them.
In the first episode of our Consumer Duty and protection podcast series, Amanda Newman Smith is joined by Shelley Read and Gregor Sked, Intermediary Development & Technical Managers from Royal London. They take a closer look into the FCA’S new Consumer Duty - due to be published by 31 July – to discuss what the rules are expected to look like, and how the changes could affect business practices for protection advisers.
In this final episode, editor at Money Marketing, Katey Pigden is joined by Christina Rigby, product owner at Royal London, Gary Gavrilovic, director at City Mortgage Solutions and Adam Higgs, head of research at Protection Guru to discuss the advantages for clients in choosing to buy advised protection products rather than direct offerings.
They'll also look at why plans which include meaningful and tangible extras can also help bolster protection conversations and provide compelling reasons to recommend certain protection products and providers to your clients.
Catch up on all the episodes from the Protection & Wellbeing Series in association with Royal London.
Editor at Money Marketing, Katey Pigden is joined by Christina Rigby, Product Owner at Royal London, and Simon Jay, CCO at Thrive: Mental Wellbeing to discuss why having access to good quality, early care mental health service is key to providing a well-rounded support package with advised protection.
In the third episode of our wellbeing series, editor, Katey Pigden at Money Marketing chats with Christina Rigby, Product Owner at Royal London, and Ian Prangley, Managing Director at TrackActiveMe, about the impact that common musculoskeletal problems can have on a person's everyday life and ability to work.
They also discuss the importance of providing access to day-to-day wellbeing and recovery support services within a protection plan. Royal London’s Helping Hand support service includes access for the plan owner to a range of online wellbeing services – among them TrackActiveMe, which can provide personal support to help improve customers' physical health.
In the second episode of our wellbeing series, Katey Pigden, editor at Money Marketing talks to Christina Rigby, Product Owner at Royal London, and Sally Powell, General Manager, PAI Health to discuss the importance of providing support for people to look after a key area of wellbeing – physical activity and heart health - within an advised protection plan.
Royal London’s Helping Hand support service includes access for the plan owner to a range of online wellbeing services – among them PAI health. We discuss why access to early care medical services, such as PAI, can help people to understand key areas of their health. And we look at how personalised recommendations and small changes to lifestyle can help improve a person’s overall health and reduce the risks of non-communicable disease, such as heart attacks, strokes and cancer.
In the first episode of the Protection & Wellbeing Podcast, brought to you by Royal London, editor at Money Marketing,Katey Pigden is joined by Christina Rigby, product owner at Royal London, and Alex Heaton, founder and ceo at LiveSmart UK.
In this episode, they discuss:
- the importance of providing access to early care, preventative, medical services in a protection plan.
- Why offering tangible benefits to customers - that are linked to maintaining or improving their health and wellbeing – is a responsible step for providers to take, to help protect customers’ health and build their financial resilience.
- Royal London's efforts in enhancing its Helping Hand service, which is available with all advised protection plans, to include a range of online wellbeing services to help plan owners understand how small changes in their lifestyle can help to improve their overall health, and to help stop health small issues now becoming bigger problems later on.
Listen out for the next episode of Protection & Wellbeing Podcast which is a series in association with Royal London, coming out every Monday.