From Critical Illness to £60M Practice: Russell Cook’s Story of Resilience, Mindset and Career Growth at Foster Denovo

In this special partnership episode of the Financial Planner Life podcast with Foster Denovo, we speak with Russell Cook — a senior partner, self-employed financial planner, and two-time survivor of life-threatening illness.

Russell shares how he built a thriving £60 million practice advising 120 clients, despite facing a rare blood cancer diagnosis and later, a brain tumour. His story is a powerful reminder that success in financial planning is as much about mindset and support as it is about knowledge and advice.

We cover:
✅ His seven-and-a-half-month hospital stay battling cancer
✅ How a critical illness policy helped him and his family stay afloat
✅ The power of team support under the Foster Denovo partner model
✅ Running multiple marathons post-recovery and raising £28,000 for charity
✅ Preparing for retirement while ensuring continuity and client care
✅ The role of Foster Denovo in his success and succession planning.

This episode is about resilience, gratitude and the value of doing work that truly matters. If you’re a self-employed financial planner or considering a career at Foster Denovo, don’t miss it.

🎧 Plus, discover more stories from those building successful careers in the Foster Denovo ecosystem on their new podcast: Foster Denovo Talks.

Be sure to follow Financial Planner life on YouTube for extra content about career development within Financial Planning.

Reach out to Sam@financialplannerlife.com in regards to sponsorship, partnerships, videography or podcast production.

Want to appear on the Financial Planner Life podcast? drop Sam a message.

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