Insightful Edge

Wooden Spoon: Changing Children’s Lives
 
Another episode of Insightful Edge opens with host Geoff Dyckes recommending the book “The Psychology of Money”, highlighting that financial success is driven by behaviour, patience, and compounding.  He suggests reframing the goal from making the most money to using money to live the life you want.
 
Geoff is joined by Andy Jones, who leads corporate partnerships at Wooden Spoon, rugby’s children’s charity.
 
The charity has raised over £38m and helped 1.7m children, with funds staying in the region they are raised.
 
Andy describes urgent unmet demand, gives examples of funded projects and shares his career shift from intense retail entrepreneurship to fulfilling charity work, emphasizing balance, purpose, and measurable impact.
 
00:00 Welcome and Book Recommendation
03:40 Meet Andy Jones
04:10 Wooden Spoon Origin Story
05:36 How the Charity Works
13:22 Early Life and Retail Hustle
17:07 Burnout and Selling Up
19:23 Finding Wooden Spoon
20:26 Advice to Younger Self
27:50 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest Info - 
Andy Jones 
Web - https://woodenspoon.org.uk/linkedin.com/in/andy-jones-73617933a
Book Recommendation
The Psychology of Money - Morgan Housel

Geoff Dyckes welcomes listeners to the Insightful Edge Podcast and shares his learnings for recently reading The Good, the Bad and the Healthy, a book about  about making consistent, informed health choices.
 
On this episode, Geoff is joined by Simon Greenhill, who has recently completed a 54-hole charity golf challenge that raised money for Cardiac Risk in the Young, a cause linked to his wife’s brother’s death from undiagnosed cardiomyopathy.
 
Simon talks about their 25-year fundraising efforts that support two annual screening weekends (200 young people each), with around 15 needing follow-up and one or two serious diagnoses.
 
He goes on to discuss his varied career in live events, performance, and celebrancy having returning to freelance work after COVID.
 
He and Geoff discuss self-belief, confidence, and being “enough.”
 
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
00:49 The Good The Bad and The Healthy
02:24 Meet Simon Greenhill
03:03 Charity Work
06:37 Simon’s Day To Day Roles
13:48 How It All Started
18:19 Dreams and Big Goals
19:14 Advice to Younger Self
23:35 What’s Next
27:19 Closing Reflections
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest Info - 
Simon Greenhill
Web - simongreenhill.comwww.linkedin.com/in/simongreenhill
Book Recommendation
The Good, the Bad and the Healthy - Sunna Van Kampen

Geoff returns to Insightful Edge after a short break during which time he has updated his website.
 
Geoff recommends the Netflix six-part drama series “Legends” to listeners.  This is a true story that explores identity, courage, and purpose when labels and roles are removed.
 
Geoff is joined by Adrian Kidd, who he met during a George Kinder Evoke Life Planning Training Course held remotely during COVID.
 
They recall how impactful the Zoom format was and how that connection led to a Masters golf trip.
 
Adrian shares his career path from Credit Suisse bond trading to becoming a financial advisor, culminating in founding EQ Financial Planning.
 
He discusses his dream of living in Italy.  Adrian provides some advice to his 22-year-old self and describes launching his new podcast, “Emotionally Invested,” as a practical, personal legacy for his daughter and a way to help others build confidence with money.
 
00:00 Show Updates and Netflix Pick
01:44 Adrian Kidd
04:34 Masters Trip
06:15 Adrian’s Career Journey
10:45 Dream Life in Italy
12:16 Rethinking Retirement and Purpose
19:36 Advice to Adrian’s 22-Year-Old Self
23:20 Launching “Emotionally Invested” Podcast
26:53 Geoff’s Takeaways and Closing
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest Info - 
Adrian Kidd - Host of Emotionally Invested Podcast.
https://emotionally-invested.alitu.com/
eqfinancialplanning.co.uk
 
Drama  Recommendation
Netflix - Legends.
 
 

SHOW NOTES
Geoff Dyckes opens this episode of Insightful Edge reflecting on a recent seven-day trip to Egypt where his new drone was confiscated!
This time, Geoff’s book recommendation is “Factfulness” by Hans Rosling.
Geoff welcomes back entrepreneur and small business mentor John Lamerton to discuss his upcoming book “Retention First”.
John explains the importance of obsessing over existing customers and contrasts relationship-led small businesses with corporates that treat clients as numbers. 
Geoff and John discuss referrals, fair pricing, simple follow-ups, and research suggesting retention gains can significantly boost profits.
00:00 Spring and Egypt Trip01:19 Book Recommendation “Factfulness”03:50 Introducing John Lamerton05:11 Writing Retention First07:10 Customer Obsession - Amazon11:19 Referrals and Reputation19:15 Retention Stats and Profit21:00 New vs Existing Customers22:29 Serving Not Selling26:25 Retention Builds Loyalty30:46 Tips for Founders36:46 Podcast Takeaways
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest Info - 
John Lamerton - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlamerton/
One Percent - https://bigidea.co.uk/one-percent-club/
 
Book Recommendation
Factfulness - by Hans Rosling
 
 

SHOW NOTES
 
On this episode of Insightful Edge, host Geoff Dyckes recommends the book "Fire in the Hole" by Bob Parsons, founder of GoDaddy and PXG.
 
Geoff then chats with Ian Dibb, founder of Wayfinder Advisory (mentoring and consulting early-stage founders), founder of the Cornish Diamond Company, and a contributor to Man Down, a UK men’s mental health charity.
 
Ian recounts building and fundraising for a software startup that failed to find product-market fit, leading to burnout, anxiety, and strain on his family life.
 
In March/April 2025, he closed the business, explaining that this brought him immediate relief and renewed energy. He explains the pressure founders feel after raising capital, often driven by fear of letting investors down despite investors understanding early-stage risk.
 
The conversation explores changing definitions of success, the limits of money, valuing time with family, focusing on happiness in the present, and building a legacy through helping others.
 
00:00 Welcome back and Geoff’s recent exploits
01:58 Book recommendation: 'Fire in the Hole' by Bob Parsons
04:19 Meet this episode’s guest: Ian Dibb
05:20 The experience of founding a business that ultimately failed.
08:37 Using the scars: mentoring other founders
14:37 Redefining success
18:44 Man Down: men's mental health support
23:00 Money Talk: financial literacy and teaching the next generation
24:10 Ian’s advice to his younger self
29:31 Final takeaways
 
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest - Ian Dibb 
linkedin.com/in/iandibb
 
Book Recommendation
 
Fire in the Hole - Bob Parsons.
 
 

Redefining Success with Phil Allen
 
In this episode of Insightful Edge, host Geoff Dyckes welcomes special guest Phil Allen.
 
Phil discusses his career as a “pyrotechnician”, running a special effects business with his brother.
 
They delve into the evolution of success, life goals, and the importance of work-life balance.
 
Phil recounts his journey from wanting to climb the corporate ladder to focusing on a lifestyle business that affords him more personal time and satisfaction.
 
He shares insights on investment, risk-taking, and the significance of learning from failures.
 
Phil also reflects on past lessons and gives advice to his younger self, emphasizing emotional intelligence, exploring the world, and the value of diverse experiences.
 
The episode also touches upon the importance of financial planning and achieving the right balance between saving for the future and enjoying the present.
 
00:00 Introduction
00:58 Geoff’s New Year, New Car
02:16 Podcast Recommendation: Grapes and Greens
03:16 Introducing Phil Allen: Special Effects Expert
03:33 Phil's Journey in Special Effects
05:58 Business Coaching and The 1% Club
08:37 Defining Success and Lifestyle Business
17:01 Challenges and Learning from Mistakes
26:57 Financial Planning and Life Goals
28:33 Advice to Younger Self
33:31 Conclusion and Book Recommendation
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Guest - Phil Allen 
LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-allen-b423541b/

In this episode of the Insightful Edge Podcast, host Geoff Dyckes discusses 10 key behaviours that can significantly improve one's financial wellbeing.
 
Geoff’s book recommendation this episode is 'Mission Total Resilience' by Ant Middleton, which emphasizes mental strength and resilience.
 
Geoff moves on to his 10 Behaviours to Build a Better Financial Life.  Each behaviour is illustrated with real client stories to showcase its importance.
 
Geoff concludes by encouraging listeners to adopt one behaviour that resonates with them to enhance their financial life.
 
00:00 Welcome to the Insightful Edge Podcast
00:35 Current Financial News: Targeted Support from Banks
02:14 Book Recommendation: Mission Total Resilience by Ant Middleton
03:56 Introduction to the 10 Behaviours for a Better Financial Life
04:32 Behaviour 1: Focus on What You Can Control
06:18 Behaviour 2: Spend with Intention, Not Impulse
07:36 Behaviour 3: Build a Financial Safety Net
09:19 Behaviour 4: Make Small Steps Towards Long-Term Goals
11:03 Behaviour 5: Keep Your Financial Life Simple
12:17 Behaviour 6: Filter Out Noise and Distraction
13:57 Behaviour 7: Protect the Essentials
16:13 Behaviour 8: Automatic Good Behaviours
18:34 Behaviour 9: Invest Calmly and with Purpose
21:22 Behaviour 10: Remember That Money is a Tool, Not the Finish Line
24:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes

Kickstarting Series Two: Summer Highlights and Key Takeaways from the 2025 Budget
 
In the first episode of 'The Insightful Edge' Series Two, host Geoff Dyckes tells Phil Boyle about what he has been up to since finishing season one of the podcast.
 
The episode then dives into a detailed analysis of the 2025 budget, discussing its implications on income tax, dividends, pensions, property investments, electric vehicle taxation, and more.
 
Geoff provides insights and recommendations for small business owners, self-employed individuals, and those planning for the future. The conversation emphasizes the importance of financial planning and staying informed about fiscal changes.
 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:39 Geoff's Summer Adventures
03:31 Book Recommendations
04:43 Budget Headlines and Key Points
06:11 Impact on Taxes and Fiscal Drag
08:19 Effects on Pensions and Investments
12:56 Changes for Small Business Owners
17:12 Electric Vehicles and New Taxes
19:12 Pensions and Inheritance Tax Changes
22:30 Making Tax Digital (MTD)
25:32 Mansion Tax Explained
28:13 Key Takeaways
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes

In this final episode of Series One of Insightful Edge, host Geoff Dyckes becomes interviewee as former guest Phil Boyle moves from behind-the-scenes to in front of the microphone for a role-reversal interview.
 
Geoff shares his recent golfing adventures at Woburn Golf Club and Birch Grove, and talks about his return to Reformer Pilates.
 
After a book recommendation from Geoff, the conversation delves into Geoff's professional journey from his early days at HSBC to running his own firm for 25 years, and now focusing on providing personalised financial planning.
 
Geoff emphasizes the importance of balancing work with personal life, sharing how he lives by the values he advises his clients.
 
Series two will be along soon and Geoff would welcome feedback on series one and contact from anyone with guest ideas for series two or an interest in sponsoring the podcast.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:51 Phil Boyle takes on the role of interviewer
01:11 Golf Adventures and Experiences
03:39 Exploring Reformer Pilates
04:47 Updates on Work and Clients
09:15 Book Recommendations
10:55 Geoff's Career Journey
24:26 Living his Advice to Clients
27:43 Conclusion and Future Plans
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
Book an initial Free 15 mins Introduction Phone Call :-  https://calendly.com/geoffdyckes
 
Altitude Coffee Bar
www.altitudesurrey.co.uk
 
Geoff's Book Recommendation -
Anything You Want - Derek Sivers
 

SHOW NOTES
In this episode of the Insightful Edge Podcast, financial life coach Geoff Dyckes shares his passion for helping people achieve financial independence and live the lifestyle they desire.
He discusses his recent travels and a book recommendation, 'Never Enough' by Andrew Wilkinson, exploring themes of wealth, fulfilment, and security.
Geoff emphasizes the importance of cashflow planning and provides insights into affordable financial advisory services.
The episode also features an interview with his wife, Lauren, who talks about her diverse career journey from travel writing to running a coffee shop, and her life experiences.
They discuss the value of experiences over material possessions and offer reflections on living a fulfilling life.
 
00:00 Welcome to the Insightful Edge Podcast
00:58 Personal Updates and Yorkshire Adventures
02:09 Book Recommendation: Never Enough by Andrew Wilkinson
05:51 The Importance of Cashflow Planning
10:03 Interview with Lauren: A Journey of Creativity and Entrepreneurship
29:15 Lauren's Tips for Her 14-Year-Old Self
32:38 Final Thoughts and Podcast Updates
 
Useful links mentioned in this episode:
www.dyckesfinancial.co.ukContact the host:Geoff Dyckes: geoff@dyckesfinancial.co.uk
Newsletter sign up: https://geoff-dyckes-financial-consultancy-ltd.kit.com/bb5a3a7550
 
Guest Info - 
Lauren Dyckes 
Altitude Coffee Bar
www.altitudesurrey.co.uk
 
Geoff's Book Recommendation -
Never Enough - Andrew Wilkinson