Graham Wells

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

Money was a constant stress for me, I had no idea about money management and how best to future proof my finances. I had been to a financial advisor but came away feeling more stressed as was not what I had expected or needed, then heard about Graham and financial coaching which sounded much more what I was looking for.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham was enormously helpful. From the very beginning, he took time to identify my specific needs so we had a clear plan and my priority areas were all covered. He went on to provide really tailored advice and guidance, as well as sending on helpful resources. He managed to answer a million questions in a really accessible way given I started with such limited knowledge.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, absolutely. I have shifted from feeling continually anxious about my finances to having a much better grasp and plan going forward and actually feel like I know what I'm doing! It's been an unexpectedly empowering process.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - Graham was super friendly, really responsive, knows his stuff inside out, and couldn't have been any better!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I looked for a financial coach because I was worried about my financial future and realised I wanted someone to help me who had knowledge but could also consult with me about my choices and future without having a tie in to financial products.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

The service supported me on so many levels; by bringing clarity and analysis to everything I was able to see what I need to do to keep my lifestyle and cash flow viable for the rest of my life. This was a huge relief to understand! The puzzle I had been ignoring definitely got solved.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. The resulting clarity motivated me to make my self employment more viable and I now have confidence for the future of my business as well. I have a plan for my cash flow so I can know I am secure in the future, I know the parameters I need to live by. I have motivation.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

A couple of years with a lot of changes going on it became a clear need to focus directly on my financial systems and confusion in them over a long period.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Financial coaching with Graham helped immensely by creating a focus on finance amidst changes going on, and by his ability to define down to focus on the finance systems as a stand alone system, not part of life flux. His ability to both communicate with individual circumstances and combine this with an income/outgoing spreadsheet became like the dog wagging the tail, not the other way around. I had tried many times to make a clear financial system but was unable to without a parameter in front. Graham's expertise in both financial industry with clear and experienced focus on the need for robust finance systems and in a personal coaching ability has started finance underpinning life events not a confused system of its own. Graham's ethos of balancing finance with work and enabling all sorts of other life activities is really a positive model.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely yes, I have a confidence in making decisions and knowing that a wider plan needs a more secure financial base and to know if changes I am making are based on financial reality or not, as well as the daily clarity on how money is spent on everything from utilities to food when in transit or the real miscellaneous. I am really really glad to have embarked on the coaching and the clarity is now embedded in processes onwards to know that plans are underpinned by a viable finance system.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all, the focus of finance within enjoyable conversation in applying it was fantastic, thank you.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

My husband and I were looking for someone to help us build our confidence in managing our finances and to help us create a plan for the future. Graham was recommended to us by a friend and was exactly what we were looking for.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham helped us have informed conversations about our finances, take decisions about our finances today, and build a financial plan for the future. He was also really adaptable to our learning needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - Graham helped build our confidence in talking about and managing our finances, and we've now been able to take some important decisions.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Graham was very knowledgeable and provided valuable feedback on plans

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I was faced with a situation where I am getting closer to retirement age but have no rhyme or reason with my finances but have recently had a breakthrough in my career where I have a good and steady income. I wanted to know how I might proceed to start getting my finances in order. I felt that before I get financial advice I first needed to address my tenuous relationship with money

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham's cheerful, easy-going nature and passion for finances was very encouraging. Throughout our sessions, I have been able to understand my relationship with money and how I can make that work to my own benefit. I now have a method and rhythm that works for me. I am starting to see improvements as I am now steadily climbing towards my financial goals

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I feel it's a little too early for my hoped for outcome to come into fruition. But I can confidently say I am on steady ground and well on my way. It's all up to me at this point. Graham has done a stellar job setting me up for success in this regard.

What could they have done better?

Nothing comes to mind.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I've struggled to engage with my finances as an adult and wanted to change that, to turn and face them, at this stage of my life, as I consider buying my own place and planning for the next stage of my life.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham's been really helpful to me over the last few months in addressing my financial situation, something I've long struggled with. I've appreciated his ability to ask insightful questions, along with practical things such as spreadsheets, links and things to consider as I make decisions. Plus he's warm, level and encouraging in his approach. I have decided to continue working with him over the next year as I continue to engage with my finances. Given we're not usually taught about money and personal finance at school or in our families of origin, working with someone like Graham is a good education – it's never too late!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I'm slowly getting there in giving attention to my finances – developing better habits and finding ways to manage my money. With Graham's encouragement I got a 0% balance transfer card, got my credit scores, and I'm not far off being debt-free.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Very friendly, understood my situation, gave advice and provided material so that I can understand what to invest in to achieve my goals.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Graham's holistic approach to finance is as refreshing as it is reassuring. I have been worried by money for years, but Graham's personable and friendly manner transformed my fears into a new-found interest for managing my finances.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Great experience so far. He really is a safe pair of hands and has responded to my exact needs and prompted me expertly to leave me with some big realisations and empowered in matters.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

In my initial 90 minute consultation two pie chart exercises quickly highlighted the overview and why I needed to start a financial coaching. The focus was extremely helpful and to set the plan of action without going all round the houses or into life complications themselves but to create a workable financial life plan. Thank you very much and I will definitely be starting on the course of six.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

Reviewing the balance of work over life. Wanting to make life changes but with the knowledge and understanding of the implications and management of our finances.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham is very understanding, he has asked questions that have prompted thought and discussions outside of a pure financial aim. This has allowed us to model as best we can the future an move forward knowing how to grow and manage our life and finances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have seen more than expected and have a good vision for the future

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

I went from wanting to avoid and cancel my first session as delving into personal finance if something I hide from, to being motivated and inspired from our session. Graham made me feel relaxed, listened to hear and was able to explain in layman's terms the meaning of financial terms. The very start of our journey but one I would recommend everyone does.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I needed support dealing with financial decisions on behalf of my Mother as I manage her financial affairs for her.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

I am so pleased I have worked with Graham over the last few months as it has helped me enormously. Having someone to talk to about all things personal finance who has such a huge depth of knowledge as well as warm and kind manner is so powerful when needing to make decisions around money.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes absolutely. I have a depth of understanding of various products, a financial life plan for my Mother and a clear sense of how to make the right decisions for her. Also knowing that I can go back to him anytime for a top up session should anything arise that I need to get clarity with gives me a feeling of calm.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Graham was excellent.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

We wanted to look at a financial plan for retirement and helping children through university.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham helped us to work out what we wanted, develop a financial plan to achieve those aims and also chatted through a pension strategy and investment strategy with us as well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes very much so.

What could they have done better?

The first session was spent looking at personal and financial objectives. I felt this possibly could have been reduced in time to allow more time in the final session to explore investment strategies in more detail.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Graham is incredibly reassuring, making me feel immediately at ease and ready to face my financial demons!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

Graham is a joy to work with, and I can see we're making progress even from our first meeting!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

We were feeling a little overwhelmed and confused by our financial situation and unsure how to move forward

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham has been brilliant at asking us questions and directing us to useful information that helped us take ownership of our financial position

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are feeling much more in control and each of us more empowered

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I was feeling overwhelmed and struggling with managing my finances: I was juggling multiple responsibilities, such as working two jobs, attending school, and being involved in my community, which left me with very little time to focus on my financial situation. Despite having some income, I found it difficult to track where my money was going and lacked a clear plan for saving and investing. I wanted to gain clarity, guidance, and support in managing my finances, which is why I sought the assistance of a financial coach like Graham.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham has been instrumental in helping me transform my financial situation. With his expertise and guidance, I have achieved significant progress in several areas. Firstly, Graham has helped me establish a solid foundation for saving and investing. He provided me with clarity on where my money was going and helped me develop a clear plan for my financial future. Secondly, he has provided invaluable accountability and support, ensuring that I stay on track with my financial goals. Additionally, Graham has helped me explore new opportunities, such as starting my publishing journey and becoming an author. Overall, his guidance and support have been crucial in improving my financial management skills, providing me with confidence and peace of mind. I am incredibly grateful for the assistance Graham has provided, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking financial guidance and support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

YES 100%

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I'm in a better place than I was 6 months ago, noting can top this!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I was feeling frustrated that I didn't know enough about money to feel empowered. I knew I wanted to learn better habits regarding money.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

After 6 sessions with Graham, I am more financially empowered than I ever have been. I'm new to business and finance and I have some really great practices and routines in place that work within the unique context of my life.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely! Graham and I worked together to set goals that will help me specifically. Nothing was a one size fits all. All of my sessions were tailored to the goals that I had set myself for a variety of specific and personal reasons.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all comes to mind. Except maybe he should've dropped off some business cards when I left secondary school in 2004.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

We were keen to sort out all our finances and make solid plans for the future.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham gave us a great space to reflect on what we wanted, and good advice for how to make that happen. His approach is very friendly, totally non-judgemental and we really enjoyed and got lots out of our sessions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we feel much less anxious now because we have a plan and steps to start to take better care of our finances.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

To have clarity and understanding of my future finances

How has Graham Wells helped you?

I am clearer on what the future holds and have confidence on my thinking and money spending / saving. Tips to help me clarify and balance with what I need to invest / save to live the life I want

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I didn't know financial coaching was a thing but I knew I needed something. So I googled lots of things to try and find someone out there who could help me with the mess I'd found myself in! And low and behold Financial Coaching was a thing and just what I needed at a time I was really sinking and struggling with money. A combination of things, the pandemic, my husband getting ill, building a house, building a new business I realised I was in survival mode and just burying my head in the sand with regards to our finances, VAT reclaims on new build, business costs, budgets etc... I couldn't see the wood for the trees and it was all too overwhelming. I needed help with breaking through the pain barrier that was the abyss of finanical chaos!! I found Graham who came to the rescue!

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham actually came to stay with us in our holiday let on site and spent two days with my husband and I understanding our situation and getting to the nitty gritty of what needed to get done. He took what was in our heads and he reflected stuff back with clarity and more importantly a plan. We broke HUGE tasks into smaller bitesize chunks, we discussed what was important and we made a plan. We continued to have check-ins online after his visit and 3 months on and life is very different.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely. I now have a good overview of our financial situation, income, forecasting. My accounts are on track and I know what needs to be done. His spreadsheets were really helpful and I continue to keep up with all my admin. We are meeting much less frequently now and will move into more financial planning in the new year.

What could they have done better?

Nothing!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I felt like my finances were out of control. I was spending money but didn't have a lot of awareness around where it was actually going. I also wanted to start feeling more empowered with my money, saving and getting a certain amount of saving in my bank. I didn't really know where to start and my friend Vanessa recommended Graham. I'm so glad she did because Graham has been an amazing coach!

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham has given me tools to be able to layout what I spend my money on and how much I have left over. This has given me the awareness that I was wanting to have. He has also helped me feel empowered with my money through mindset and I am now excited every week that I get paid instead of having anxiety and fear that my money will fly out the bank without me be aware of where it is going.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have so far. I have become a lot more aware of where my money is going and what I am spending on things. I am excited to feel more in control with my money and to continuously see my savings rise. I have a few more sessions booked with him and I am working towards a big goal of having a certain amount of savings in my account and keeping it. I am nearly at this goal and I am working towards it before the end of our booked sessions.

What could they have done better?

I think Graham is a great coach. He has tools and resources at the ready. He holds space for his clients and asks questions that help me get to the deeper meaning or root cause of why something might be happening. I feel we work together very well and I don't feel he needs to change anything.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

I have enjoyed Graham's approach - focusing on what is most important to us and adjusting his approach and guidance accordingly

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

To gain a better understanding of my finances, pensions explore options.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham took time to understand my circumstances, know what my goals and what they would like to be. Empowered me to think anything is possible and have confidence in taking control of my finances. Explored about money management my relation to my finances from past experiences and behaviours towards money. I am a NHS and local authority employee so am not really wealthy. Though comfortable I think they say.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes mostly it’s allowed me to explore my goals what is achievable what I might have to wait for.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of apart from tell me I will become a millionaire!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

It’s been great to get to know Graham, he is very personable, professional and knowledgeable. Even though we do our sessions remotely, he has a very friendly manner and I feel like I can trust him with what I share.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

Coming towards the end of the current tax year, I needed guidance on how best to set up pensions through my limited company and personal ISA's for my family so that I could best evaluate the options open to me.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham took the time to learn all about my family's fanancial situation and our future aspirations, using that knowledge to walk me through the evaluation process of setting up suitable pensions and ISAs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Obsolutely, meeting with Graham has given me both a better understanding of the range of investment options and both the confidence to set up savings vehicles and the importance of planning how and when it pay into them.

What could they have done better?

N/A

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

My wife and I both want the best for our children in the future, and so contacted Graham about inheritance planning.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham listened carefully, and helped coach us so we could make informed choices.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes- we have greater confidence in our ability to make financial decisions.

What could they have done better?

n/a

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

Intetested to find out more and how they could help me

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Gave me focus, instead of trying to organise everything at once, prioritise.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Step one achieved but there's a few more steps yet

What could they have done better?

In my opinion, nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

For me personally, choosing a financial coach was about peace-of-mind and I knew Graham's knowledge and experience would give me that feeling of security.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I wanted to develop my knowledge, skills and confidence regarding finances (e.g. pensions).

How has Graham Wells helped you?

He coached me and helped me to create tangible plans on a range of topics including understanding and investing in pensions, establishing a will and setting up investments. He really helped me to improve my financial literacy, build my confidence and take practical actions. He's calm, encouraging and friendly and brilliant at helping others to focus in on and achieve their goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I'm a lot more knowledgeable and confident following my coaching and have achieved the goals that I set out.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

We needed someone to demystify the “big picture” financial planning questions which had daunted us for many years. We were looking for someone who could help us come up with some practical solutions and methods to get on top of our budgeting, saving and longer-term goals.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham is a fantastic financial coach, combining expert financial knowledge with top-notch coaching skills, as well as real empathy and warmth. From the very first session we felt empowered and supported. Graham provided such a clear framework to help us address our key questions and issues and was always affirming and responsive to our personal situation. Graham also provided much needed structure and accountability throughout the coaching process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

By the end of our sessions with Graham, we felt we'd made huge progress and felt much more in control of our financial situation. We're continuing to feel the benefits of putting his advice to use!

What could they have done better?

We can't think of anything that he could have improved. We would recommend Graham and Growiser without and reservations!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I'm self-employed, and I lost a lot of work - and therefore money - in 2020, when COVID hit. COVID also had me moving to a new country (from the UK to the US) so there was a lot of newness to navigate on the financial front.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham and I had our first chat via Zoom on 4th September 2020. I got in touch because several things in my financial ecosystem had changed: I had moved to a new country; I was now in a serious relationship, so there were two sets of finances to think about rather than just one; and the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic had tornadoed through my self-employment income. I needed help navigating the new terrain. As a result of working with Graham, I now feel completely empowered and motivated when it comes to what I am creating in my financial life. I have a kick-ass plan that I work on every day; I have tons of confidence; and I have a bulked-up toolkit. I give Graham my highest recommendation; I would not be where I am today without him repeatedly showing up to draw my dreams out of me and then keep me accountable to their execution.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes I'm experiencing at the moment, are - quite frankly - above and beyond what I was hoping for. Graham and I worked together steadfastly to get clear about what I wanted in my life on the financial front. He was there to help me navigate all the twists and turns of the road - the logistical and emotional ones. I was offered a job on 27th October 2021 (that I accepted) that is so completely and uniquely aligned with who I am and what I am all about in life...it is incredible! This job completes the 'lattice of revenue sources' that I had been seeking. ...and this 'real world outcome' was the result of all the coaching sessions and clarity-seeking that Graham led me through. I am absolutely thrilled when it comes to 'where I have landed'.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything at the moment.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

We were keen to ensure we had adequate Pension plans in place for retirement.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

He helped by encouraging us to look our Pension plans in a plain English manner so we understood the terms & conditions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes anticipated forecasts.

What could they have done better?

Nothing he was meticulous in his data gathering and always planned our meetings to suit us.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

Since earning a full time wage I have always had a niggling feeling that I needed to understand the dark arts of money and how to save properly. Like many others, it appeared an incredibly difficult world to navigate and understand. 20 years later, I sold my house which left me with a small amount of excess cash. I decided it was time to educate myself on the options I had. I reached out to Graham knowing he had an extensive knowledge of the financial industry.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Turning to Growiser Financial Coaching for assistance has been, without a doubt, the best decision I have made in the last 10 years. From that very first meeting he listened to my needs and created a tailored approach which gave me newfound confidence and understanding towards my finances. His expert advice and careful guidance has made me excited about my financial future in a way I didn't think was possible. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend his services, everyone should benefit from his wisdom and ability to demystify the world of personal finance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome from working with Graham has surpassed all my original goals, tenfold. Graham has unlocked a vision of my future that goes beyond just understanding personal finance. It has been such a positive experience working with Graham I had no hesitations to sign up to be a regular client.

What could they have done better?

I can't fault Graham's service in any way.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I wanted to gain more knowledge and control on my current financial situation including the options I had with my pension when retiring.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

Graham made me look at my financial situation differently and helped me to understand how my income and outgoings could work for me better.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. I am more knowledgeable about my finances and aware of the next options to take back control and make my money work for me.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Graham

I approached Graham as I was unsure about the possible financial effects of a career change. Graham was very informative and provided me with positive and encouraging advice. This has enabled me to adapt my mindset and confidently make the right decision for my future.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

I wanted to review my financial planning with someone with greater knowledge of the workings and regulation of the field than I had myself. I believe that we are best at making our own decisions, and so wanted someone who could provide expertise, challenge and expand my thinking and NOT make recommendations, but rather advise on any blindspots.

How has Graham Wells helped you?

I'm a big fan of the role of coaching in all aspects of our lives, and finance is no different. So it was great to find Graham and engage his support in decision making and stress testing my financial plans. Graham's depth of experience in the financial world, coupled with great coaching skills were invaluable, leaving me to weight up approaches and trade offs and giving me the chance to model and project my plans. I only wish that I had known him much earlier in my financial journey - it would have saved me wading through a lot of books, and hours of time on excel!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - in addition to Graham's sense checking, challenge and ideas for further exploration, he also offers a great planning tool which far exceeded the functionality of my spreadsheet and allowed me to scenario plan. More than I had expected.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for a financial coach?

My age. I’m not getting any younger and I wanted to make sure that myself and my family would have enough tucked away to survive

How has Graham Wells helped you?

After a few short sessions with Graham, we are now in a much better position financially than we have ever been or even thought possible. For me everyone should have a Graham.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Since we began our journey our finances are in a superb place unlike the place they used to reside

What could they have done better?

As yet nothing