Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents

Most agents don’t leave the industry.They just stay stuck in it. In this episode, I sit down with Samantha Cerrone, Director of Cerrone Estates, 5x ICON Agent at eXp and voted Agents’ Agent 2025. Sam’s journey is anything but typical. From starting at 19 with no idea what estate agency even was, to running branches, stepping into business ownership, getting burned, and then completely changing the game through self-employment. This is the real story, not the polished version. We get into what it actually feels like to start from scratch, the moment the numbers finally click and you realise your worth, and the pressure that comes with success when your phone doesn’t stop ringing and your business starts to outgrow you. We also talk about the stage most agents hit, what eXp call the “brick wall”, where the work is there but the money hasn’t landed yet, and why Sam didn’t hit it… but faced a different kind of challenge instead. This is about building a business that gives you freedom, not just more work. If you’re thinking about going self-employed, or you’re already in it and wondering what comes next, this one will land. ALTO SECTION: Before you go, quick one. On the 15th of May, I’m doing something a bit different with Alto. It’s a live Q&A, completely free, 30 minutes, and I’ll be taking questions directly from estate agents. No script, no hiding. Just whatever you want to ask. Growth, instructions, team, stepping back without everything falling apart… all fair game. I’m actually looking forward to this because being put on the spot is where the good stuff tends to come out. You can register here:https://altosoftware.registration.goldcast.io/webinar/0e8ce5a5-8cc1-4509-b699-439b1074f8d1 And if you’re listening to this after the 15th, there should be a recording available if it’s of interest.

In this episode, I sit down with Rob Brady, and this one goes well beyond the usual agency playbook. We get into what’s really changing in estate agency right now, and why so many agents are busy, but not actually moving forward. Rob shares his journey from corporate banking into estate agency, scaling a business, and then stepping into coaching and tech with Iceberg Digital and Estate Agency X. Along the way, we unpack some uncomfortable truths about how most agencies operate. We talk about:  Why most agencies look and sound the same, and end up competing on fee  The difference between the data you think you have and the data that actually matters  Why “panic posting” isn’t a strategy  What brand really is, beyond logos and colours  The long game of marketing, and why most give up too early There’s also a more personal side to this conversation. Rob opens up about mental health, loss, and how that’s shaped the way he shows up in business and life. If you want to connect with Rob or explore what he’s doing with Estate Agency X and Iceberg Digital, you can find him here:👉  linktr.ee    

What happens when you stop building a job… and start building a life? In this episode, I sit down with Ian Macbeth, founder of Avocado Property, entrepreneur, ultra-endurance athlete, and now someone who’s just done what most agents talk about… and actually sold the business. This isn’t a “look how clever I am” conversation. It’s honest, raw, and full of the stuff most people avoid. We get into: The reality of being pushed out of a corporate role and using it as fuel Building a business with an exit in mind from day one Why most estate agencies are fundamentally undervalued and what to do about it The power of multiple income streams over relying on sales alone How Avocado was built differently, intentionally, and fast What it actually feels like to sell your business and what comes after But this goes beyond business. We talk about family, time, and why success without control isn’t success at all.And how running 100 miles might actually teach you more about business than most courses ever will. If you’re an estate agent, business owner, or someone who knows deep down you’re capable of more, this one will hit home. 🎯 This episode is sponsored by AltoIf your team is busy but not necessarily productive, Alto Intelligence is worth a look. Built into Alto’s CRM, it handles the repetitive, time-consuming work that slows agents down, from managing enquiries to surfacing performance insights and keeping compliance on track. You can get 10% off using the code ROB10 via the link  here.

Hiring in estate agency looks simple. It isn’t. The talent pool is tight, the wrong hire is expensive, and yet most businesses are still relying on rushed decisions, gut feel, and a stack of CVs that all look the same. In this episode, I sit down with Sally Asling, founder of ProFind Property Recruitment, who brings 30 years of experience in the property sector and a very different approach to hiring. This isn’t about filling roles quickly. It’s about getting it right. We get into: Why most recruitment processes are fundamentally flawed The real cost of a bad hire (and why most underestimate it) Why “more CVs” is usually the wrong answer How to think about hiring as a long-term business decision, not a short-term fix What great agencies do differently when it comes to building teams Sally doesn’t sit on the fence. Her approach is targeted, honest, and built around fit, not volume. If you’re hiring, thinking about hiring, or frustrated with the results you’re getting, this will make you rethink how you approach it. Because recruitment done properly isn’t a cost. It’s a competitive advantage. Sponsor This episode is supported by Alto. Alto is a CRM used by a huge number of UK estate agents, and their new Alto Intelligence is built to take care of the day to day work that slows your team down. From handling leads to surfacing insights and managing compliance, it frees your team up to focus on what actually makes you money, winning instructions and getting deals done. The result is simple. More time, better decisions, and more deals, without needing a bigger team. 👉 Take a look here:here👉 Use code ROB10 for 10% off And as always, I only partner with companies I believe genuinely add value. Alto backing the podcast means I can keep pushing this forward and getting better content out to you.

Everyone’s talking about AI. Most of it is noise. In this episode, I sit down with Diana Simpson-Hernandez, founder of Aletheai, to cut through it and get to what actually matters, what AI really means for estate agents on the ground. Not theory. Not hype. Real application. Diana’s building a decision intelligence engine designed to sit alongside your CRM and answer three brutally important questions: Who should you be speaking toWhy themAnd what you should do next Because let’s be honest, most agents are still working off instinct, gut feel, and a lot of wasted calls. We dig into:  Why calling more people is the wrong target  How AI can double conversion by focusing your effort in the right place  The difference between data, insight, and actual decision-making  Why experienced agents will get more out of AI than beginners  The ethical side of AI and how much it should really know about us  What’s coming next in estate agency and where this is all heading There’s also a fascinating discussion around whether AI can truly innovate, or whether it’s just reflecting what we already know. If you’ve ever looked at your CRM and thought “there must be a better way than this”… this is the episode. Because the future isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing the right things, at the right time, with the right people.

Most estate agents chase deals.Kristjan Byfield built a business. In this episode, Kristjan, Co-Founder of The Depositary and Base Property Specialists, breaks down what really drives long-term success in estate agency, and why most agents are focused on the wrong things. Starting out as a professionally trained actor, Kristjan’s journey into property was anything but planned. But what followed was a relentless focus on customer experience, recurring revenue, and building a business model that actually works without constant pressure. We get into:  Why lettings and property management are massively undervalued  The real difference between income and enterprise value  How recurring revenue changes everything  Why most agents look the same, and how to stand out  Building a PropTech platform without investment  The danger of growth before product  And how solving your own problems can lead to entirely new businesses There’s a lot of honesty in this one. No hype, no shortcuts, just a clear look at what actually works. If you’re serious about building something sustainable, not just staying busy, this one’s worth your time.

Starting a business is exciting.Running one a year later… that’s where the real lessons are. A year ago, Dan Firth came on the podcast just as Bid was getting started. Now we’re back to find out what’s really happened since. Because starting a business is one thing.Living with it day to day is something else entirely. In this episode, Dan shares the reality of building Bid over the last year, from a small founding team to a growing business, and the lessons that only come from being in it. We get into:  What’s actually gone well (and what hasn’t)  Why growth feels like a rollercoaster, not a straight line  The hiring mistake that didn’t work, and what it taught him  Why most business owners become the bottleneck  The shift from doing everything… to letting go  Why success depends on how you choose to measure it There’s also a brilliant conversation around culture, values, and what it really means to be a “partner” rather than just another supplier in the estate agency world. If you’re building a business, or thinking about it, this is the bit no one tells you. Not the idea.Not the launch. What happens next.

Most estate agents think going self-employed is the answer.More freedom. More money. More control. The reality? It’s a different game entirely. In this episode, I sit down with James White, MD of Belong Estate Agency, a man with nearly four decades in the industry who’s seen it all… from tea boy on £27.50 a week to running high-volume branches, partnerships, and building his own brand from scratch. We get into the stuff that actually matters:  Why low fees and upfront models look clever but rarely work  The brutal truth about starting your own agency and the cash it really takes  Why being a great agent doesn’t mean you’ll run a great business  The hidden danger in the self-employed model that no one talks about  How growth can quietly destroy your service if you’re not careful  And why “belonging” might be the most powerful idea in estate agency James doesn’t hold back, whether it’s calling out industry behaviour, challenging the big portals, or admitting where he’s had to rebuild his own confidence. This is not theory.This is lived experience, mistakes, scars, and hard-earned lessons. If you’re thinking about going alone… or already have…you need to hear this.

What does it take to lead an estate agency that’s been around for eight decades? In this episode, I sit down with David Powell, CEO of Andrews Property Group, to talk about leadership, legacy, and the challenge of evolving a business with deep roots in the property industry. David shares his journey through the sector, from the early days of his career to taking the helm at Andrews, and what he discovered when he stepped inside a company with such a long history and unique purpose. We talk about: What it’s really like leading an 80-year-old property business• The balance between heritage and modern estate agency• Building the right culture inside a large organisation• Why leadership today is more about environment than control• The future of estate agency and where groups like Andrews go next This conversation goes beyond transactions and market trends. It’s about people, culture, and what happens when a property business is built to last. If you’re interested in leadership, estate agency, or what it takes to run a long-standing brand in a changing market, this is a fascinating listen.

You Can’t Buy Trust. You can buy leads.You can buy clicks.You can buy attention. But when a homeowner Googles your name, none of that matters. In this episode, I sit down with Daniel “Danno” Vivarelli, CEO of Starloop, to explore the one thing that actually decides who gets the call first in today’s market: trust. Not the fluffy kind.The visible, measurable, public kind. We talk about: Why Google quietly created the infrastructure for the trust economy• The psychology behind asking for “feedback” instead of a “review”• Why bribing clients with gift cards didn’t work, but planting trees did• How top-performing agents are turning reviews into a long-term asset that pays dividends• And why reputation isn’t a marketing tactic. It’s strategy. Trust has always mattered in estate agency. What’s changed is this:It’s now public. It’s searchable. And it’s influencing decisions before you even walk through the door. If you think reviews are just a vanity metric, this conversation might make you rethink that. Because you can’t buy trust.But you can build it. To connect with Daniel, visit starloop.com or email [email protected].

For years, estate agents have shouted about sales agreed, new instructions and record prices. Ben Madden says that’s the problem. In this episode, I sit down with the founder of Digital Sparks, Fine & Country operator, and serial business builder to unpack a simple truth: Attention is the currency of modern business.And most agents are broke. Ben shares the unfiltered story of building and exiting Thorgills, surviving the 2008 crash, navigating Brexit, scaling to 30%+ market share in West London, and why resilience beats perfect timing every time meeting_saved_closed_caption . We dive into:  Why valuations are the only number that really matters  The KPI trap that overwhelms teams  Why most agents sound identical  The power of “old school” prospecting done properly  How lockdown Disney songs accidentally exploded brand awareness  Why showing the messy stuff builds more trust than shouting about wins  And why your roast potatoes might win you more instructions than your awards Ben doesn’t believe in buzzwords. He believes in stories. Real ones. The fall-through. The mistake. The lesson. The bit that actually proves your value. If AI is levelling the playing field, personal brand is how you rise above it. This one’s about visibility, consistency, and having the courage to put your face to your business before someone else does. Because in a world where everyone claims to be “honest and trustworthy,” the only thing left is being unmistakably you. Enjoy.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Scantlebury, founder of ProConvey — and a man on a mission to fix one of the biggest bottlenecks in our industry. Chris spent a decade inside conveyancing. He’s seen the chaos. The delays. The endless back-and-forth. The duplicated AML checks. The paper forms. The “we’re waiting on the other side” syndrome. So he did something about it. ProConvey’s Digital Sales Ready Packs are designed to get everything sorted on day one — ID checks, Source of Funds, Material Information A–C, TA forms, title documents, EPC data, even searches and contract packs. The result? ⏱️ Completions shaved by 20+ days📉 Fall-through rates reduced dramatically📈 A faster, cleaner, more professional pipeline We get into the uncomfortable truths too. Why do some agents resist upfront information?Is the industry addicted to slow?Are panel conveyancers creating a race to the bottom?And could AI finally help us hit 28-day transactions? This isn’t theory. It’s a proper look under the bonnet of how deals actually get done — and why speed, structure, and systems matter more than ever. If you’re serious about improving pipeline velocity, client experience, and profitability, this one’s for you. You can find Chris and book a demo at www.proconvey.co.uk or connect with him directly on LinkedIn. Because 19 weeks might be normal. But it doesn’t have to be.

Opening your first estate agency is brave. Opening your second is something else entirely. In this episode, I sit down with Pete Courtis, owner of The Mather Partnership in Helston and Hayle, to talk about what really happens when you decide to expand. We cover the part no one talks about. The empty office.The six month wait for income.The recruitment mistakes.The second guessing.The cost of Rightmove before you’ve banked a single pound. Pete bought his original business at 27 on a seller finance deal. He ran sales and lettings. He sold the lettings department, calling it both his worst financial decision and his best lifestyle decision. He rebuilt after losing key team members to a competitor. But this episode centres on the difficult second office. What it takes emotionally.What it costs financially.Why it rarely performs in year one.And how to structure it so it doesn’t quietly damage your main branch. We also dig into culture, recruitment, AI, and why average estate agents might struggle in the years ahead. If you are thinking about opening another branch, this conversation might save you a lot of stress. Growth sounds glamorous. The second office is where it gets real.

This is not a glossy highlight reel.It’s a proper, boots-on-the-ground conversation with Tony Ruby, one of the most consistently high-performing agents in the UK and one of eXp’s global standouts. Tony didn’t start with a grand plan, a war chest, or a safety net. He started after redundancy, with responsibility on his shoulders, a fear of failing, and a decision that he was done building someone else’s business. In this episode, Tony walks through the real journey, the good, the brutal, and the bits most people leave out: How being made redundant became the turning point, not the end• Why most agents misunderstand fees, profit, and what “busy” really means• What it actually feels like to go self-employed with no guarantees• Building a personal brand before it became fashionable, and why that mattered• Why higher fees didn’t lose him clients, but didgive him his life back• The mistakes, the burnout warning signs, and the decisions he’d change• What eXp got right, and what people still get wrong about it• Why success looks different for different agents, and that’s the point This is a conversation about independence, responsibility, values, and building a business that works for you, not one that slowly eats you alive. If you’re an estate agent who’s ever thought:“I could do this better on my own”or“There must be a smarter way than this” You’ll see yourself all over this episode. No hype. No scripts. Just experience, perspective, and straight talking from someone who’s actually done it. 🎧 Guest: Tony RubyHelping and mentoring agents on their journeyeXp UK No.1 volume agent | No.2 worldwideQuadruple ICON | 5x Capping AgenteXp Agent of the Year 2022 📲 Connect with TonyInstagram: @tony_ruby_estate_agentEmail: [email protected]: Tony RubyMobile: 07900 010 507 This one’s for agents who want ownership, not just another target. 

This episode is a proper deep dive into the engine room of estate agency software. My guest is Riccardo Dawson, CEO of Alto Software Group, the platform powering over a third of the UK property market. But this isn’t a corporate victory lap. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what really happens when you take over a complex SaaS business, strip it back to fundamentals, and rebuild it for the future. We talk about:  What it actually takes to turn around a large PropTech business without breaking customer trust  Why Alto deliberately went “back to core” before chasing shiny new features  The concept of “jobs to be done” and why most CRMs quietly fail agents every day  How AI should removeadmin, not just repackage it  The uncomfortable ethics of AI in lettings, tenant scoring, and automated decision-making  Why some AI features are just hype, and which ones will genuinely change how agencies operate  What the estate agent of the next five years will really be managing (hint: it’s not dashboards) Riccardo also shares his non-linear career journey, from architecture and fashion startups to founding Yourkeys, selling to Zoopla, and ultimately leading one of the most influential software platforms in UK property. If you’ve ever complained about your CRM, felt overwhelmed by AI noise, or wondered what’s actually coming next for estate agencies, this episode will make you think very differently about where the industry is heading. This conversation is grounded, practical, occasionally uncomfortable, and absolutely essential listening for agency owners who want to stay relevant rather than reactive.

If you think HR is just contracts and common sense, this episode might save you a small fortune. In this episode, I’m joined by Paul Fitzsimmons – an HR and employment law specialist who’s spent 15+ years helping business owners avoid expensive, stressful, tribunal-shaped disasters. Paul doesn’t do fluffy HR. He’s run his own business. He understands commercial reality. And he’s seen everything – from cocaine-fuelled Christmas parties to dismissals that looked obvious… until they cost £60,000. We talk about:  Why you can’t just sack someone on the spot(even when they really deserve it)  The simple HR mistakes that land good businesses in serious trouble  What the new employment law changesactually mean – without the scaremongering  Why performance management should be constant, not reactive  Christmas parties, social media, drugs, discipline… and why alcohol plus staff is a legal minefield  The uncomfortable truth about average staff, tough decisions, and avoiding six months of misery  How bad HR drains profit, energy, and leadership time  Why outsourcing HR is often cheaper, safer, and saner than winging it We also get into Paul’s refreshingly honest take on conveyancing, margins, service quality, and why racing to the bottom on fees breaks businesses on both sides of the transaction. Paul brings humour, clarity, and zero nonsense. You’ll laugh. You’ll wince. And you’ll almost certainly rethink how exposed your business really is. If you employ people – or are thinking about it – this episode is required listening. How to contact Paul You can find Paul Fitzsimmons on LinkedIn. Drop him a message with your biggest HR headache and he’ll translate it into plain English before it becomes expensive.

What if the way buyers search for property is about to change forever?And what if estate agents finally have a way to loosen the grip of ever-rising portal fees? In this episode, I’m joined by Mal McCallion, a true industry heavyweight. Mal was there at the birth of PrimeLocation, helped launch Zoopla, and has spent over 25 years inside the engine room of property portals and proptech. Now he’s back — and this time he’s taking aim at the very model he helped create. We talk about how AI is already reshaping how buyers search, why traditional filters are broken, and how “vibe searching” will replace rigid portals. Mal explains why estate agents have been boxed into an expensive, outdated system — and how AI finally gives them leverage again. This is not a fluffy “AI might be useful one day” chat. It’s a hard look at what’s changing right now:– Why AI search will challenge portal dominance– How agents can win market share, cut costs, and increase revenue per deal– Why being small, local, and human may become your biggest advantage– What the next 2–3 years mean for estate agency businesses that adapt… and those that don’t If you’re an agent who wants to stay relevant, profitable, and in control of your future, this conversation will make you think — and probably make you uncomfortable in all the right ways. How to Contact Mal McCallion (Show Notes) Mal is currently touring the UK, speaking directly to estate agents about AI, portals, and the future of property search. Register for the UK tour:👉 https://myporta.ai/tour26 Email Mal directly:📧 [email protected] If you’re curious about where AI is really heading in property — not the hype, the reality — this is one conversation you’ll be glad you listened to.

Most training in estate agency exists to stop you going to prison. Very little of it helps you win instructions, progress sales, or actually understand the law you’re meant to be complying with.  That’s why this conversation matters.  In this episode, I’m joined by Charlotte Jeffrey-Campbell, founder of The Able Agent—and one of the most grounded, no-nonsense voices in estate agency training today.  Charlotte has done the job. Lister, manager, trainer, business builder. She’s seen what works, what doesn’t, and why most agents are quietly blagging their way through regulation they don’t fully understand.  We talk about:  Why qualifications aren’t the enemy—but bad training is  What actually happened to RoPA (and why it hasn’t gone away)  The dangerous gaps in estate agents’ knowledge (even after 20+ years)  Why compliance and business generation should never be taught separately  How most agents learn sales progression the hard way… and why they shouldn’t  And why “free training” often turns out to be the most expensive option of all This isn’t a scare-story episode. It’s a grown-up conversation about raising standards without killing the soul of the industry. If you want your team to be more confident, more credible, and genuinely expert—not just box-ticking—this one’s for you.   Life’s too short for bad training.

Most estate agents think they have a CRM problem.What they really have is a data, discipline, and decision-making problem. In this episode, I’m joined by Mark Hinkins, Commercial Director at Rex, to tear into one of the most uncomfortable truths in estate agency:almost no one is using their CRM properly—and AI is about to make that painfully obvious. We talk about why most agents under-use powerful systems, why moving CRMs is less about software and more about strategy, and how your database is quietly becoming your most valuable asset. Mark shares what he’s seeing on the front line of PropTech, how AI is changing prospecting, pipelines, and productivity, and why agents who “wait and see” will already be too late. This isn’t a tech demo.It’s a reality check. If you’re an agency owner who wants to win more instructions, scale without piling on headcount, and actually work smarter (not just talk about it), this conversation will challenge how you think about CRMs, data, and the future of your business. AI isn’t replacing estate agents.But it is replacing the ones who don’t adapt.

This episode is a proper behind-the-scenes look at how sellers choose estate agents — and why so many get it wrong. I’m joined by Colby Short, co-founder and CEO of GetAgent, the UK’s leading estate agent comparison platform. Over the last 11 years, GetAgent has analysed millions of data points, worked with over 7,500 agents, and helped more than 1.2 million homeowners try to answer one deceptively simple question: Who is actually best to sell my home? We dig into the original insight that sparked GetAgent — a single London postcode where 800 sellers chose 200 different agents, half of whom had never sold a property there — and why that chaos still exists today. Colby explains:  Why most vendors confuse familiarity with performance  The three metrics that really matter when choosing an agent  Why speed to lead wins more instructions than fee discounting  The uncomfortable truth about completion rates and unsold stock  How GetAgent survives on a pay-on-completion model while many prop-tech firms collapsed  Why data without human judgement still isn’t enough This is an honest, commercially grounded conversation about data, cash flow, fees, lead quality, and the brutal reality of running a business where you only get paid if everyone else performs. If you’re an estate agent who believes you’re good — but wonders why the market doesn’t always reward that — this episode will make you think very differently about how sellers see you, long before you ever sit on their sofa.

Most estate agents didn’t get into this business to drown in admin… yet somehow that’s exactly what happens. In this episode, I’m joined by Bronwyn Schmidt, Operations Director at VA Central, to unpack what actually happens when agents stop trying to do everything themselves. We talk honestly about: Why most agents leave outsourcing far too late The difference between cheap outsourcing and building a proper team What tasks VAs really should be doing in sales, lettings and property management Why delegation isn’t about losing control – it’s about structure and trust How VAs and AI work together (and why AI isn’t coming for your job) The broker model, burnout, low fees, and the hidden cost of doing £10-an-hour tasks Why your business doesn’t need to be “perfect” before you outsource Bronwyn brings real-world insight from working with over 200 UK estate agencies, and we get into the practical realities – systems, onboarding, CRMs, productivity, and why your support team doesn’t need to sit in your office to deliver a better service. If you feel busy, stretched, or trapped inside your own agency, this episode will make you rethink how you build your team – and your business. Less graft. Better systems. Smarter growth.

Aarti Patel isn’t just impressive. She’s one of those rare people who walk into your world and remind you what’s actually possible.  Her property journey didn’t begin with fanfare. It began with a disaster. The kind of disaster that sends most people off to lick their wounds and mutter “never again.” Aarti did the opposite. She treated it like tuition. Learned the lessons. Then used those lessons as rocket fuel.  Today she’s a force of nature — a developer, the mind behind Aarti Auctions, a marketer, a founder many times over, and someone who understands how to carve out a niche so sharp it could take your finger off. She’s used social media to generate opportunity most agents dream about. She’s built partnerships. She’s created momentum from thin air. And she’s done it all with integrity, optimism and a ridiculous level of resilience.  Her story is one of reinvention, bravery, and backing yourself even when the evidence isn’t exactly cheering you on. If you want inspiration, you’ll get it. If you want practical insight, you’ll get that too. But above all, you’ll hear from someone who proves — emphatically — that a “Life by Design” isn’t a slogan. It’s a decision.  A cracking listen.

Estate agents love the thrill of the chase. Listings, negotiations, deals — that’s the fun bit.Compliance? That’s the part that keeps everyone awake at night. In this episode, Amy Shields, former estate agent turned Smart Compliance powerhouse, pulls back the curtain on the side of agency most people avoid until it’s too late. From AML pitfalls to the fines agents don’t believe they’ll ever get, to the uncomfortable truth that yes, prison is technically on the table… this conversation is a masterclass in what every agent should know but most never learn. Amy’s journey from frontline agency to compliance expert is surprisingly relatable, surprisingly human, and occasionally absolutely terrifying. This episode should probably have been released on Halloween; the jump scares are real, and the consequences even more so. If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll deal with compliance later,” listen to this before “later” becomes a very expensive word.

Alex Pelosi-Buchanan is one of those leaders who doesn’t hide behind buzzwords or corporate gloss. He’s honest, sharp, commercially switched on and absolutely obsessed with doing agency properly — no shortcuts, no fluff, no ego. In this episode, Alex takes us behind the curtain of what it really takes to build momentum in today’s market. We dig into leadership, culture, standards, growth, accountability, and the uncomfortable truths most agents avoid because they’re easier not to talk about. Alex tackles all of it head-on. This is the kind of conversation estate agents should be having more often — practical, grounded, and full of “why aren’t we all doing this?” moments. Whether you’re running a single branch, growing a team, or scaling a brokerage, there’s a stack of insight in here that will sharpen your thinking and challenge you in the best way. Alex is sharp, fair, and frighteningly clear-headed. You’ll finish this episode with a stronger sense of what good looks like and how to actually build it.

Jack Durkin didn’t just launch a self-employed brokerage… he built a model that actually works. In a world where every man and his dog is suddenly a “broker,” Jack and his team at The Avenue are quietly rewriting the rules of what a high-quality, high-fee, hyper-local agency can look like. In this conversation, Jack opens the bonnet and gets right into the engine of the modern brokerage movement — where it works, why it fails, and what agents consistently get wrong. We talk Purplebricks (the good, the bad, and the burnout) , the “day one panic,” why consistency beats cleverness, and how a single great instruction can feed you for months. Jack explains the Avenue’s obsession with quality over quantity, why saying no is a superpower, how to set standards without becoming a dictator, and why the future belongs to agents who go small, hyper-local, and specialist. We also dive into the realities behind onboarding, culture, recruitment filters, and what it really takes to help an agent build a six-figure (and maybe one-day seven-figure) business without losing their sanity in the process. If you’re running a brokerage, thinking about starting one, or wondering how on earth to stand out in a crowded self-employed marketplace… this episode will give you a ton to chew on.

Kirsty Franks doesn’t just “do marketing.” She dissects it. Rebuilds it. And then plugs it directly into the bloodstream of an estate agency so it actually drives revenue, not just noise. As Founder and CEO of Frank Marketing, she’s spent years helping estate agents and property professionals grow market share, sharpen their message, and turn half-baked ideas into campaigns that actually land. Strategy first. Creativity second. Results always. In this episode we get properly under the bonnet of estate agency marketing. What works. What doesn’t. What agents think matters but really doesn’t. And what they ignore at their peril. Kirsty brings straight-talking insight, loads of experience, and more common sense than most “gurus” put together. I probably am a bit biased — she’s annoyingly brilliant — but listen anyway. You’ll come away with a bucketful of ideas and a much clearer view of what great marketing should look like in our industry.

This week I chat with Garrett Maroon — an agent, coach and all-round good guy from Virginia who built his business the hard way… then figured out how to do it the smart way. After burning out working 100-hour weeks, Garrett rebuilt his business around one simple principle: success isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing it better. He now generates all his leads through referrals and has created a business that serves his life — not the other way round. We talk about how he made that shift, the systems that drive his referrals, and what UK agents can learn from the US brokerage model as it continues to gather pace over here. It’s an honest and practical conversation packed with ideas you can put into play straight away.

This week I chat with Chris Webb — founder of The Estate Agent Consultancy and one of the sharpest minds in our industry. Chris is known for driving growth for small and solo estate agencies. But this conversation goes beyond the polished professional image. Chris lets his guard down and shares the story behind the career; the experiences that shaped him, the mistakes that taught him, and the insights that every ambitious agent can learn from. With over 20 years in the business, he’s seen it all, done most of it, and now helps others grow smarter, faster, and stronger. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the calm exterior of a true professional, this one’s for you.

Tom Greenacre has done what many talk about but few pull off — built a thriving brokerage from scratch under the Yopa umbrella. From his early days at Countrywide to the chaos and colour of Purplebricks, Tom’s seen every version of estate agency. In this episode, we unpack how he’s created a business within a business — the highs, the mistakes, and the reality behind the glossy LinkedIn posts. We also tackle the uncomfortable truth about why so many brokers fail, and what separates the ones who last from the ones who vanish. If you’re thinking about going self-employed or creating your own brokerage model, listen to this before you jump. It’s honest, practical and might just change how you see the game.

Charlie Lamdin is one of the industry’s most outspoken outsiders — a man who’s never sold a house, yet has spent 25 years studying the people who do. Founder of BestAgent, self-taught “wannabe world-changer,” and serial survivor of business bruises, Charlie’s mission is bold: to tear down the barriers that keep agency unfair and rebuild it around trust, transparency, and process. In this episode, we dig into his philosophy of “talk process, not price,” why he thinks the industry’s obsession with competition is killing service, and how failure and frustration shaped his determination to change it. Whether you agree with him or not, Charlie will make you think differently about what estate agency could be.

In this episode of The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, Rob Graves sits down with Brian Quick, an eXp agent from the US and a key member of The Wolfpack — a 3,500-strong network of high-performing brokers. Brian’s journey from touring drummer to top-producing agent began after a major health scare that completely shifted his outlook on life and business. The conversation dives deep into the differences and striking similarities between the US and UK property markets, exploring how technology, culture, and agent collaboration are evolving on both sides of the Atlantic. Expect insight, inspiration, and a few “aha” moments that reveal what the UK agency world can learn from its American cousins — and how the future of estate agency might already be playing out across the pond.

This week on The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, I sit down with Jean-Pierre and his husband Manuel—the creative duo behind Channel 4’s hit property series A Place in the Sun. They share what it was really like to bring one of the UK’s most-loved property shows to life, lifting the curtain on the challenges, surprises, and stories from behind the camera. But their journey didn’t stop there. Today, they run Maison Hunt, a bespoke property-finding service helping clients navigate London’s rental and buying markets with care, clarity, and results. From scouting homes across Europe for TV to guiding international relocations into the heart of London, Jean-Pierre’s career has always been about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about matching people with places that truly feel like home. Expect insights into the making of property television, the evolution into high-level property search, and what it takes to turn vision into reality for clients in one of the world’s most competitive housing markets.

This week on The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents I sit down with Morgan Edmondson of Nesti, the London-based startup building one of the most advanced AI platforms for estate and letting agents. Morgan gives us a clear-eyed look at what AI can really do for estate agency today—and where it’s heading tomorrow. This isn’t about robots taking jobs. It’s about the smartest agents using AI as rocket fuel to become faster, sharper, and more valuable than ever. We explore why AI adoption will be a sprint, not a marathon, how smaller, agile agencies can seize an edge over slower-moving corporates, and why this moment feels like the social media revolution all over again—only accelerated. If you’ve been wondering whether AI is hype or the real deal for your agency, this episode will give you the insight you need to decide whether you’ll be left behind—or leap ahead.

This week I sit down with David Adams — property expert, landlord coach, best-selling author, and the driving force behind Cavendish Sales & Lettings. David has transformed a family business into a modern, value-driven agency. He gets what many miss: property management is the beating heart of cash flow and long-term business value. In our conversation, we explore how he’s using multi-generational influence — from books and webinars to podcasts and social media — to build trust and attract landlords with serious lifetime value. He shares why giving away knowledge is the best calling card, how webinars have become his number one client collection tool, and why he thinks like a coach, not just an agent. There’s a reason I call him the Gary Vee of UK estate agency — he understands the power of giving first, building assets that compound, and using content to create connections that last. Packed with ideas any agent can borrow — whether you’re focused on landlords or sellers — this is a masterclass in building assets that work every day to grow your business.

Sometimes the best conversations don’t come from the big personalities on the industry stage but from the agents quietly getting on with building brilliant businesses. In this episode I sit down with Matthew Hendry, owner of Naish Estate Agents in York, who acquired the business just two years ago and has already steered it through a rebrand, renovation, and a rebuild of his team. We cover:  Why acquisition is a forgotten but powerful way to start or grow an agency  How Matthew approaches pricing with clarity and conviction  The fee structure that serves both clients and the business  Building a team that shares his values and beliefs  Why his focus is on profitablegrowth, not just getting bigger Matthew’s approach is refreshingly clear: do things really well, and growth will follow. With over £130m of York property already entrusted to Naish, it’s working. If you want to hear from someone who proves that estate agency doesn’t have to be about noise or scale—but about substance—this episode is for you.

In this episode I sit down with Apostolos Aktypis—the man building AI-powered client acquisition systems for estate agents, B2B, and service brands. His work sits right where AI, paid media, and revenue engineering collide, and his mission is simple: to move the bottom line with substance, not hype. When we recorded this conversation just eight weeks ago, the tools were impressive. Since then, they’ve leapt forward again. That’s how fast the landscape is shifting. After forty years in agency, I can say this with confidence: AI is the most important development our industry has ever faced. And if you’re only using it to write property details or tidy up emails, you’re barely scratching the surface. This episode will show you why AI matters, how to think beyond gimmicks, and how to start building systems that give you a real business advantage.

In this week’s episode I sit down with Deep Shah to challenge a big misconception: outsourcing isn’t about cutting costs—it’s about raising the quality of your team. Deep shares sharp insights on how recruitment and onboarding can make or break a business. Too often, we blame new starters when the real issue is a lack of process. Without the right systems and procedures, even the best people will stumble. We dig into why onboarding is one of the most underestimated parts of business growth, and how getting it right can transform both performance and culture. If you’ve ever wondered why some hires thrive while others fail, this conversation will change the way you think about recruitment forever.  

In this episode of The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, I reconnect with Mitch in Dubai to see how his real estate journey is unfolding — and whether he’s any closer to that elusive Rolex goal. Since our last conversation (one of the most popular episodes we’ve ever released), the Dubai property market has toughened, and wider global uncertainty has added to the challenges — including the tense backdrop of US–Iran relations at the time of recording. Yet, what’s striking is how familiar many of these obstacles feel, no matter where in the world you’re selling property. From client expectations to shifting market dynamics, the themes remain universal. Join us as we dive into Mitch’s progress, the realities of working in Dubai real estate, and the lessons every estate agent can take away, wherever they are.

This week on The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, I sit down with Richard Rawlings — one of the most respected trainers and speakers in our industry. Richard is known for helping agents secure higher fees, close more instructions, and create real distinction in their markets. He’s worked with everyone from independents to global brands, sharing practical persuasion techniques that deliver immediate results. But what you don’t often hear is Richard’s own story — his background, how he found his way into this industry, and how he became the trainer so many of us now turn to. Along the way, we talk about fees, asking for the business, closing, AI, buyer representation, and much more. It’s not just a masterclass in agency growth — it’s an insight into the journey behind the trainer.

I first met Matthew back in 2008 and we recently reconnected at the eXp conference, where his energy and enthusiasm were as strong as ever. In this episode, Matthew shares his journey through agency, his unfiltered thoughts on the industry, and why he’s so passionate about eXp. He doesn’t shy away from the “cult” label in fact, he embraces it and explains what the model has done for agents not just in the UK, but around the world. Matthew’s story is full of character, grit, and a few brilliant anecdotes you won’t want to miss. He’s a one-off and he’s got a lot to say. Whether you’re eXp-curious or just in the mood for a refreshingly honest chat about the state of agency, this episode delivers.

This week, I’m joined by Adam Mackay, one of the first agents in the UK to embrace the eXp brokerage model. From his family roots in Sawbridgeworth to launching Mackay Property and now building The Real Agency alongside Olympic legends Roger Black and Steve Backley, Adam’s story is packed with insight, bold decisions, and a clear belief in doing things differently. In this episode:  Why Adam bet on eXp before most even knew what it was  The power of honest, hyper-local agency in a templated world  How “The Real Agency” is aiming to change the game for independent agents within eXp  What traditional agents can learn from a new wave of model-first businesses Whether you’re eXp-curious or just want to hear how one agent built a standout business with heart and clarity, this one’s worth your time.

This week I’m joined by Adam Ali, Managing Director at NurtureCloud and a commercial leader with deep experience scaling SaaS businesses across the UK, Australia, UAE, and beyond. We get into a wide-ranging and genuinely eye-opening conversation about:  The role AI will play in reshaping estate agency  What UK agents can learn from other global markets  How to turn emerging tech into a competitive advantage—not a threat Whether you're curious, cautious, or already experimenting with AI in your business, this episode will get you thinking differently. Tune in to hear what’s coming—and how you can stay ahead. #EstateAgency #AIinBusiness #NurtureCloud #PropertyTech #Innovation #Leadership #UKEstateAgents

In this episode, I sit down with Simon Leadbetter — founder of We Are Unchained, strategic advisor, mentor, and a man with 30 years of hard-won marketing wisdom under his belt. I first met Simon on his course “30 Years of Marketing in 1 Day” — and trust me, every estate agent should go. It’s the kind of experience that makes you realise just how little most of us truly know about marketing. In this conversation, we go deeper:✅ Simon’s journey across startups, FTSE100 firms, and his own ventures✅ What marketing really means (beyond ads and logos)✅ How to grow smarter, not just louder✅ Why most agents and business owners are missing the mark — and how to fix it It’s insightful, honest, and packed with takeaways for anyone running or growing a business today. If you think you already “get” marketing… this one’s especially for you. #EstateAgency #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #SimonLeadbetter #WeAreUnchained #Leadership #CMOInsights #KeyCoachingPodcast

After 25 years in estate agency — including two decades building the respected brand Snowden Wilkinson — Ian Wilkinson is starting again. But not from scratch.From experience. In this episode, Ian shares why, at the height of his success, he sold his stake in the business he’d spent 20 years growing… to launch something entirely new: Agent MXM, a boutique-style brokerage designed to support high-performing, self-employed agents. We talk about: ✅ Starting his first agency at 23✅ The emotional (and financial) leap of leaving his own brand behind✅ Why he believes the brokerage model is the future — and how to do it right✅ What “being all in” really looks like as a mindset, not just a move Whether you’re thinking about expanding, stepping away from the high street, or just want to hear what it takes to truly bet on yourself — this episode is packed with real insight, hard-earned lessons, and honest reflections. 🎧 Tune in now — and bring a notepad. #EstateAgency #BrokerageModel #SelfEmployedAgents #IanWilkinson #AgentMXM #Leadership #FromAgentToOwner #AgencyGrowth

This week, I’m joined by Simon Ward, founder of Mr Green Estate Agents in Dorset—a business he’s built from the ground up over the past 15 years, without ever having been an estate agent himself. And that’s exactly what makes this episode so valuable. Whether you’re just thinking about going out on your own, or you’ve been running an agency for years, Simon shares hard-earned lessons that every estate agent can learn from. 💡 In this episode, we cover:  Why understanding your numbersis non-negotiable  How to balance business with family life(and where it gets hard)  What it really means to think like a business owner, not just an agent  The mindset shifts that drive sustainable growth  And of course, one of the best lines I’ve ever heard on a podcast:“It’ll all be alright in the end. And if it’s not alright, then it’s not the end.” Simon’s story is a brilliant reminder that success doesn’t require the perfect background—it requires purpose, clarity, and a willingness to think differently. A relentless journey of learning. 🎧 Tune in now to The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents—this one’s full of gold. #EstateAgency #SimonWard #MrGreen #BusinessMindset #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #EstateAgentPodcast #UtterlyIndispensable

If you think sales progression is just about chasing solicitors and waiting for updates... think again. In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Harvey, founder of Property Fastrack, whose business was born not from within the estate agency world—but from the frustrations of being a buyer herself. And that’s her superpower. Laura’s approach is refreshingly different. She’s not here to follow broken processes—she’s here to fix them. From reducing fall-throughs to speeding up completions, she’s on a mission to make transactions smoother, smarter, and far more client-focused. 💡 One of the big takeaways? Sales progression starts way earlier than most agents think—long before the offer is agreed. So, if you’re tired of moaning about 19-week transactions… This episode might just change your mindset—or your move-out date. 📦 Tune in and learn: • Why estate agency “norms” often hold progress back • How outsourced sales progression can protect your pipeline • What agents can do before a listing goes live to avoid chaos later • And how Laura is reshaping an entire part of the industry by solving problems, not just reporting them 👂 Listen now—and if you want your deals to move faster, cleaner, and with fewer headaches… Laura might just be the answer.

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Abraham—a real estate marketing strategist and ghostwriter who helps real estate CEOs turn cold leads into warm deals using 5-day educational email courses. Kevin shares how agents and founders often get stuck chasing vanity metrics—likes, views, and followers—without generating real, qualified leads. We dive into the systems behind converting attention into appointments, and why trust-building (not constant posting) is the real game-changer. What might surprise you? Kevin’s also studying Biomedical Science at university. Yep, he’s a self-proclaimed lab geek—and as it turns out, applying scientific testing principles to business and marketing delivers serious results. 💡 Highlights include: The hidden power of email over social media Why most agents confuse visibility with credibility How to build a reusable lead-gen asset that works on autopilot The one mindset shift agents must make to stop chasing and start attracting Whether you're an agent, founder, or just tired of posting into the void, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to improve your lead flow and start turning eyeballs into income. 🎧 Listen now and start making your marketing matter.

This week on The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, we dive deep into one of the most fascinating career journeys you'll ever hear. Meet Toby Martin - a man whose winding path from failed rock star to comedy club struggler, from terrifying secondary school classrooms to lettings director boardrooms, has somehow led him to become one of the property industry's most innovative marketing minds. Toby's story is proof that life rarely follows a straight line. What started as dreams of musical stardom and stand-up comedy glory eventually evolved into a passion for property that now helps estate agents across the country stand out from the crowd. As the West Country Regional Executive for ARLA Propertymark, a trustee for The Propertymark Trust, and a mentor with Agents Together, Toby has built a reputation for being bold, innovative, and memorably different. In our conversation, Toby reveals how every seemingly unrelated chapter of his life - the stage fright from bombing comedy gigs, the communication skills honed in rowdy classrooms, the creativity from his musical pursuits - has contributed to his unique approach to property marketing. His prolific social media presence across LinkedIn, TikTok, and Instagram has earned him industry accolades and something close to a cult following among property professionals. The real magic of Toby's story lies in his philosophy: just put one foot in front of the other, because you never know where you might end up. At each stage of his journey, he had no idea where he was heading, yet every experience was building toward something bigger. This episode is packed with marketing takeaways that will help your agency cut through the noise, plus an inspiring reminder that your seemingly random experiences might just be preparing you for something extraordinary. Whether you're struggling to make your mark or looking for fresh ways to differentiate your business, Toby's insights will leave you thinking differently about your own journey.

What does it take to launch your own agency at 23 — and turn it into a multi-million-pound brand? This week on The Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents, I’m joined by Claire Morgan, founder of Millbrooke Estate Agents and one of the most inspiring operators in the game. Claire started with just three years of experience and built her agency from scratch. She now leads an award-winning business known for innovation, powerful marketing, and real customer focus. We talk about:  Why lettings should be seen as a core value-driver, not a bolt-on  How she blends lifestyle branding with property matchmaking  What developers really need from agents (and what they don’t)  How thinking outside the box attracts serious business  And what it takes to grow something valuable— not just busy If you’re early in your agency journey, or wondering how to level up with real strategic thinking, Claire’s story is packed with gold. Tune in and take notes.

Steph Walker doesn’t mince her words — and that’s exactly why this episode hits home. Founder of TAUK and a true champion for personal estate agents, Steph shares the real story behind her journey, from her time at Purple Bricks to building a brokerage model that’s rewriting the rules of estate agency. We talk about:  Why Purple Bricks attracted a generation of entrepreneurial agents  How TAUK empowers agents to grow with independence and support  What makes the brokerage model work — and where it's headed  The growing role of acquisition in scaling a modern agency If you’ve ever questioned the traditional agency path or felt pulled toward doing things your own way, Steph’s insights (and honesty) are worth your time.