London Construction + Offices Podcast

The London Construction + Offices Podcast (LCOP) is for everyone working within the London commercial sector. We enable industry leaders to share their journey, challenges, wisdom and insights in a relaxed, enjoyable podcast episode. Hosted by Stephen Berridge, owner of Fidgens; a London based cost management consultancy specialising in commercial refurbishments.

Ep 30 | Matt Jackson on 30 Years of Interior Design, Workplace Evolution & the Future of Work 12/08/2025

Ep 30 | Matt Jackson on 30 Years of Interior Design, Workplace Evolution & the Future of Work In this episode, Steve sits down with Matt Jackson, co-lead of interiors at Hawkins\Brown, to explore his remarkable 30-year career in interior design and workplace strategy. Steve and Matt first crossed paths back in 2011, when Matt was Design Director at Gensler, one of many pivotal chapters in a career defined by creativity, mentorship and industry-shaping projects. Matt reflects on his early years growing up in Berkshire, where his love of graphic design, music culture and record sleeve art (think Peter Savile, Neville Brody) paved an unexpected path into interiors. After five formative years at Berkshire College of Art & Design, he landed a Royal Society of Arts award that took him to Barcelona, an experience that reinforced his passion for hospitality and modular design. His journey spans a mix of boutique studios and global heavyweights, beginning at BDG in Bristol before moving to London and gaining rapid, hands-on experience in hospitality and workplace projects. A career-defining move to MCM followed, where Matt spent 14 influential years working on landmark projects and learning from leaders like Hazel Marsh and Paul Scrivener. Here, he embraced the power of storytelling, the importance of “earning your stripes,” and the value of nurturing design talent responsibly. Matt then transitioned to Gensler, where he broadened his expertise through global research networks and high-profile work with clients like Aon, Nokia, GSK and major legal firms. He recalls the emerging pre-COVID workplace trends, agility, collaboration, mobility, that would later define the post-pandemic world. The conversation dives deep into the impact of COVID-19 on workplace behaviour, the rise of flexible working, shifting travel patterns and how companies are still grappling with mandates and office culture. Matt shares sharp insights on the new talent landscape, the psychology of workplace design and why the office must now compete with home for comfort, community and purpose. He also explores the growing integration of sensory design, brand storytelling and residential influences in workplace projects, drawing on examples from work with Sony Pictures, Dojo, Nike and Google. Now four months into his role at Hawkins\Brown, Matt discusses his vision for expanding their workplace offering, introducing their human-centred design ethos to occupiers and tenants and shaping future-ready spaces grounded in sustainability, research and innovation. With projects in “industrial rehab” and a talented team led by long-time design leader Morag Morrison, Matt is energised by the next chapter. The episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on AI, its rapid acceleration, and how early adopters will reshape creative and professional practice. Matt emphasises the need for workplaces where people can learn together, exchange ideas and build social capital, because even in an AI-driven world, culture remains the beating heart of every great business. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Matt Jackson You can follow Matt on LinkedIn are architects, urban and interior designers. They also offer a range of specialist services including environmental intelligence, creative conservation, foresight, digital design, social research, urban data analytics and briefing and estates optimisation. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/39320995

Ep 29 | From Headcorn to Partner: Tom’s Journey Through Engineering, Growth & Leadership 10/29/2025

Ep 29 | From Headcorn to Partner: Tom’s Journey Through Engineering, Growth & Leadership In this inspiring episode, I sat down with Tom, a partner at TB+A, to uncover his journey from a small village in Kent to leading one of the UK’s most respected engineering consultancies. Tom shares candid insights into his early years, from struggling academically and almost joining his dad’s fabrication business, to discovering a passion for problem-solving through engineering. You’ll hear how a chance conversation led him to university, why his unconventional BTEC-to-degree route shaped his resilience and how hands-on learning at Sheffield Hallam became a turning point. We trace Tom’s 20+ year career at TB+A, exploring the values that have kept him and many others loyal to the company for decades: trust, transparency and a genuine focus on people. From building long-term client relationships with Deutsche Bank and PwC to navigating industry challenges like the Building Safety Act and fee competition, Tom offers a grounded perspective on leadership, growth and purpose in engineering. He also opens up about: The importance of mentorship and bespoke career development Why TB+A invests heavily in apprenticeships and education How the firm balances stability with innovation and sustainability What it means to be a “custodian” of the business for the next generation If you’re passionate about engineering, leadership or the journey of building a meaningful career, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and authentic reflections. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Tom Smith You can follow Tom on LinkedIn is a high-performing engineering partnership delivering high-quality building services consultancy across the UK and Europe from eight offices. Our purpose is to be a socially responsible and ethical Partnership that is the best at everything we do. As a carbon-neutral partnership our operations are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/38822800

Ep 28 | Building Homes Away from Home: Yaron Rosenblum on the Future of Workspaces 10/02/2025

Ep 28 | Building Homes Away from Home: Yaron Rosenblum on the Future of Workspaces In this episode, we sit down with Yaron Rosenblum, Co-Founder and CEO of Canvas Offices, to explore his unconventional journey from professional drummer to entrepreneur re-shaping the future of workspaces. Born in Israel in 1982, Yaron’s creative drive started early - at 15, he converted a redundant chicken coop into a recording studio with the help of his architect mother. What began as a local hub for musicians foreshadowed his later success in London. Arriving in 2005 with just cymbals, drumsticks and £1,000, Yaron quickly immersed himself in the UK music scene, launching a production house in Soho that grew to three studios and 25 employees. Partnering with his brother Oren, a lawyer, they balanced their complementary skills - Yaron leading on creativity, sales and people; Oren on operations and finance. After selling their music business, the brothers pivoted into real estate almost by accident - helping a vocal coach find a space sparked the idea that would become Canvas Offices. Starting small in Shoreditch, they applied lessons from the music industry to create bespoke, human-centered workspaces designed as “homes away from home.” Today, Canvas has grown to nearly 40 employees, operating across prime London locations and continues to expand with sustainable growth in mind. Yaron shares the philosophies that guide him: listening deeply to client needs, creating spaces for “dreamers and builders,” and building a business rooted in trust, creativity and community. He discusses the evolution of the serviced office market, how Canvas differentiates itself from “glass box” spaces and why passion and transparency are the keys to attracting top talent. Looking ahead, Canvas is exploring managed solutions for landlords, global expansion -beginning with Munich - and even future concepts like localised “home away from home” hubs and strategy retreats. For Yaron, entrepreneurship is about action, creativity and always chasing the next idea. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Ron Rosenblum You can follow Ron on LinkedIn Canvas Offices create inspiring places and spaces designed to help you and your business thrive. They understand your business is unique and so are our office spaces. Wherever you are in the collection, you know it’s a Canvas. Soothing interior design working in harmony with the original features we find. And they choose bright, booming neighbourhoods that reflect our clients and create a shared sense of belonging. Their role is to enhance your experience through the spaces and connections they create. Pro-collaboration. Pro-growth. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/38436425

Ep 27 | The Future of Real Estate with Antony Slumbers 09/11/2025

Ep 27 | The Future of Real Estate with Antony Slumbers In this episode, I sit down with Antony Slumbers — serial entrepreneur, global speaker and one of the most forward-thinking voices in real estate innovation. Antony’s career is anything but conventional. Starting out as an art dealer in Belgravia, he made his way into property development during the late 80s boom, only to face the harsh reality of the 90s market crash. His mantra at the time: “Stay alive till ’95.” That resilience led him to discover the internet’s potential for real estate. In 1995, he taught himself to code and launched the UK’s first commercial real estate website, later creating tenant engagement tools, writing for Estates Gazette and advising global boards on technology strategy. Today, Antony is best known for his work at the intersection of real estate and AI. In this conversation, he shares: The lessons learned from market crashes and reinvention. Why generative AI is a creative tool — not a scientific one. The 3 future value drivers for real estate: data, orchestration and trust. The skills humans must sharpen as machines take over prediction: judgment, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Why over-reliance on AI risks creating “a room full of people who know everything but understand nothing.” Antony also gives us a glimpse into his latest venture, Bidscore, an AI-powered contractor selection platform designed to improve efficiency and fairness in construction. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Antony Slumbers You can follow Antony on LinkedIn is a globally recognised speaker, advisor and writer on proptech and space-as-a-service. A serial entrepreneur, he has founded and exited several proptech software companies and now consults real estate boards on their transformation, technology and innovation strategies as well as writes an influential blog. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/38183110

Ep 26 | Confidence, Change & Culture: Bex Moorhouse on Leading Transformation 08/26/2025

Ep 26 | Confidence, Change & Culture: Bex Moorhouse on Leading Transformation In this episode, we sit down with Bex Morehouse, Head of Strategy, Operational Excellence and Performance at WPP; the world’s largest creative transformation company with over 100,000 employees across 100 countries. Bex takes us on a candid journey through her career – from her childhood in the small Welsh town of Knighton, to her early roles in serviced offices and her time as part of Nike’s UK leadership team, where she played a key role in workplace design and connectivity. We dive into her bold decision to leave corporate life in 2021 to launch her own workplace and well-being consultancy, Invigorate Basis and what ultimately drew her back to the corporate world to lead transformation at WPP. Bex reflects on: Her evolution from a shy, risk-averse student to a confident leader. The importance of resilience, self-growth and stepping outside your comfort zone. How she built a consultancy focused on environments, experiences and culture. Why well-being, workplace design and community are at the heart of employee performance. Her current mission at WPP: transforming real estate and workplace services into a world-class, employee-centred experience. This is a story of transformation – personal, professional and organisational. Whether you’re navigating your own career crossroads, leading change within a business, or curious about the future of the workplace, Bex’s insights will leave you inspired to think bigger about how we work, where we work and what truly enables people to thrive. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Bex Moorhouse You can follow Bex on LinkedIn is home to market-leading agency brands and more than 100,000 people committed to doing extraordinary work for our clients. No other company matches the breadth of our creative talent, the scale of our global presence or the depth of our technology, data and AI capabilities. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/37958285

Ep 25 | The Journey of James Townsend, CEO of Kontor 08/07/2025

Ep 25 | The Journey of James Townsend, CEO of Kontor In this episode, I sit down with James Townsend, CEO and co-founder of Kontor, a leading office leasing specialist that has scaled from a two-person startup to a 22-strong team, transacting on nearly 5 million sq ft of space across 18 cities. James' career began unexpectedly. After poor A-level results, he landed a job at a local estate agent and was encouraged to become a chartered surveyor, despite initially believing it involved “measuring buildings and counting bricks.” With financial support, he studied real estate management law at university, working part-time in a commercial agency. Determined to prove himself, James moved to London and started at Matthews & Goodman, where he survived the 2008 downturn and passed his APC on the first try. After a lack of recognition, he joined Chevalier and Cheval, where he helped launch Helix, an asset management venture, before moving to DTZ (now Cushman & Wakefield): a corporate environment he quickly realised wasn’t for him. Despite initial reservations, James joined CBRE, where he thrived in their entrepreneurial tenant representation team. His three-and-a-half years there gave him the structure, network and learnings that would later shape Contour’s foundation. At just 28, James co-founded Kontor with business partner Luke. With minimal resources, two desks in a friend’s office and a last-minute bonus they closed their first deal and shortly after landed WeWork as a client. That relationship bankrolled the business for two years and expanded their European broker network. From working with Monzo to Deliveroo, Kontor positioned itself as an in-house real estate partner for high-growth, flexible, culture-driven companies. But as clients scaled and became more corporate, Kontor evolved offering outsourced landlord solutions and building a unique hybrid model. A strategic management buyout and the acquisition of Hedge enabled Kontor to expand beyond tenant representation. With clients like Derwent and British Land, Kontor now competes alongside CBRE and JLL, offering "Flexpertise" and landlord advisory services. Their five-year plan? Conservative revenue doubling, possible building ownership and strategic investments. Outside of business, James is an amateur racer with professional aspirations. From go-kart inspiration to national-level competition, motorsport offers a focus unlike any other. With ambitions to race at Le Mans and join the British Racing Drivers Club, James is clear: motorsport drives him to push harder in business. This episode is a deep dive into entrepreneurship, resilience and ambition from the boardroom to the racetrack. Whether you’re scaling a business or chasing a personal dream, James' story is a masterclass in navigating growth, risk and reinvention. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: James Townsend You can follow James on LinkedIn helps scaleups and unicorns find the offices they need. To get them access to inspiring spaces where their teams actually want to work. To give honest and expert advice every step of the way. To make sure they weren’t taken to the cleaners. Helping startups scale from 10 desks to 20, from 50 to 100, from 100 to infinity. Helping them expand internationally. And helping them get through the tough times too. The downsizing, the budget cuts and yes... the craziness of coronavirus. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/37716180

Ep 24 | From School Leaver to COO by 28 with Sammy Kingston 07/24/2025

Ep 24 | From School Leaver to COO by 28 with Sammy Kingston In this episode, I sit down and speak with Sammy Kingston, the Chief Operating Officer at Adeline Grantham, about his unconventional path into the real estate industry and what it takes to rise through the ranks without a traditional academic background. Sammy left school at 16, admitting he was never the most academic — more into sport than studying — but his career started with a spark: two weeks of work experience at CBRE, one of the world’s largest real estate firms. That experience turned into a life-changing opportunity when he was accepted onto CBRE’s first real estate apprenticeship scheme at just 16. Over five years, Sammy worked across the business, completed a BTEC and NVQ, and ultimately passed his APC to become fully qualified — all while building real-world experience. He stayed in CBRE’s leasing team, shouldering key responsibilities when no graduate hires were made that year. Sammy also founded the Apprentice Network, collaborating with senior leaders from firms like JLL and Savills to create events and support others entering the industry through apprenticeships. After CBRE, he joined VTS: a proptech business originating in the US. On day one, he was flown to New York for a major industry conference — a true baptism by fire. While VTS taught him business acumen, systems and sales skills, he eventually realised something was missing. In 2023, he joined Kontour — a boutique, high-energy firm where he thrived before moving to his current role at Adeline Grantham, a unique family office with deep architectural roots in London. At just 28, Sammy found himself in meetings with consultants, surveyors and contractors — grappling with imposter syndrome and cognitive overload. But he quickly learned one of his most important lessons: it’s okay not to know everything and to ask questions. Now, Sammy is leading developments across prime London locations, including a 15,000 sqft office near Old Park Lane and a 60,000 sqft Fitzrovia site, Waverley House. He’s also helping build the Adeline Grantham brand — proving that you don’t need a university degree to become a leader in property, just grit, humility and a willingness to keep learning. An inspiring listen for anyone forging a non-traditional path into real estate. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Sammy Kingston You can follow Sammy on LinkedIn is a family-owned private real estate office with a heritage spanning nearly a century. Over four generations, our family has been developing and investing in property with a long-term, value-driven perspective. Since the post-war period, we have been at the forefront of Central London office property, earning a reputation for discretion, expertise, and forward-thinking vision. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/37532245

Ep 23 | Leading with Purpose: Vince Simpson on Culture, Confidence and Collaboration 06/30/2025

Ep 23 | Leading with Purpose: Vince Simpson on Culture, Confidence and Collaboration In this powerful episode, we sit down with Vince Simpson, Managing Director of Spark Collective, to unpack his remarkable journey from the east coast of Scotland to leading some of the UK’s most innovative workplace strategy and project management initiatives. Vince opens up about his childhood growing up in a single-parent household, the financial hardships his family faced, including moments of relying on food parcels and support from the Salvation Army and how early involvement in Cubs, Scouts and the Army Cadets gave him a sense of purpose and belonging. Enlisting in the army at just 15, Vince served with the Royal Engineers, including time in Sierra Leone and Africa, before leaving after a decade, burnt out but determined to forge a new path. Vince shares how he transitioned from military life into health and safety and project management, where he cut his teeth on complex construction and fit-out projects. His career continued to build momentum at BW Interiors, Structuretone and Cushman & Wakefield, where he overcame imposter syndrome to become an Associate PM, eventually heading up the Design & Build team at CBRE. We explore how COVID acted as a turning point for Vince, prompting deep reflection, a six-month notice period and the birth of Spark Collective. What started as Spark PM has recently rebranded, repositioning as a strategy-led collective of project managers helping clients see the bigger picture and collaborate with purpose. Now leading a lean and effective team (and not planning to grow beyond 8 people), Vince opens up about the importance of momentum, direction and energy, managing site culture and building a business rooted in values he’s lived by his whole life. This is an honest, inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention and finding your own spark. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Vince Simpson You can follow Vince on LinkedIn recognises the world is faster, more innovative and more dynamic than ever before. We strongly believe in challenging the standard processes, placing our clients’ most common Real Estate pain points at the centre of how we approach our services. We consciously restore the balance to high levels of services in a pragmatic, grounded and streamlined way. We believe in being human, authentic and service-focused. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/37215650

Ep 22 | Grit, Design + Global Delivery: A Conversation with Liz Purcell 06/13/2025

Ep 22 | Grit, Design + Global Delivery: A Conversation with Liz Purcell In this episode, we dive into the inspiring and dynamic career journey of Liz Purcell, currently the Global Workplace Delivery Manager at Equinix. From pulling weekly all-nighters at university to leading global teams, Liz’s path is one of passion, persistence and bold moves. Liz’s love for design was sparked by her aunt and stepmother, both interior designers. Surrounded by creative minds, she pursued a BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture, graduating with First Class Honours. A natural team player with a sporty streak, Liz balanced academic excellence with half marathons to find calm and clarity. At 19, she left home and worked in bars, where a chance meeting with an architect opened doors to real-world projects. Hustling hard, she mailed out CVs and landed a pivotal opportunity with Watermark Architects, marking the beginning of her professional career. Drawn to Australia’s thriving design scene, Liz brought her infectious energy and work ethic to firms like Hamilton Thompson and APP Corporation, managing major projects and clients, including top airlines and Morgan Stanley. Despite navigating long hours and unsupportive environments, she kept rising. At 30, driven by curiosity and courage, Liz moved to London without a job. She quickly found her footing at CBRE, where she landed the Microsoft account and later Google, overseeing high-impact workplace projects across Europe. After a decade in workplace strategy and delivery, Liz transitioned into a global leadership role at Equinix in December 2024, embracing the challenge of managing a small international team. Now six months into the role, she reflects on growth, grit, and the vision to expand her team in the months ahead. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating a global career path, thriving in high-pressure environments, or wondering what’s possible when you mix hard work with a little serendipity. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Liz Purcell You can follow Liz on LinkedIn powers digital innovation with the world's largest and most interconnected global data center network, supported by a worldwide community of partners. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/36950130

Ep 21 | Building Careers Brick by Brick with Toby Badcock 05/13/2025

Ep 21 | Building Careers Brick by Brick with Toby Badcock In this episode, we sit down with Toby Badcock, Director at Cyril Leonard, to explore the personal journey behind a dynamic career in property and surveying. With roots in real estate stretching back to childhood - thanks to a grandfather who quizzed him on architectural detail - Toby reflects on how family influence, early leadership opportunities at grammar school in Kent and a love for maths and science set him on his path. Toby opens up about the ups and downs of his academic years, including a challenging A-level experience and his eventual entry into Kingston University to study building surveying. From his first role at Haywards Property Services to weathering the 2008 financial crash, Toby shares how setbacks paved the way for pivotal career moments - from working on public sector sustainability projects to training others through the RICS process at EC Harris. We follow his journey through the Department of Health, Knight Frank and ultimately to his current role at Cyril Leonard, where he’s embracing the opportunity to help grow a boutique firm known for its collaborative culture and long-standing industry relationships. Toby shares valuable insights on leadership, the importance of humility in project delivery and how open communication builds trust from day one. He also talks candidly about fee discussions, motivating teams and why each career move has been driven by a desire to learn, grow and challenge himself. Whether you're starting out in property or leading complex developments, this episode is packed with practical wisdom on building both buildings and careers. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Toby Badcock You can follow Toby on LinkedIn are one of the very few owner-led multidisciplinary surveying practices in central London. A firm that uniquely combines capital markets & leasing, project & building consultancy and property & asset management – providing Clients with outstanding advice and delivery in all the major markets, property sectors and transaction forms. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/36529950

Ep 20 | From Horses to High Rises – The Journey of Yaeger Irwin 04/14/2025

Ep 20 | From Horses to High Rises – The Journey of Yaeger Irwin In this episode, I sit down with Yaeger Erwin, Founder of Bloom Project Management, to explore her remarkable career journey from horse-riding teenager to leading multimillion-pound construction projects—and ultimately launching her own purpose-driven business. Yaeger opens up about her early years growing up in a supportive household, how tutoring helped her earn a place at Burnham Grammar School and how she made the tough decision to choose academics over competitive horse riding at 16. A science-obsessed teen dreaming of becoming a forensic pathologist, she surprised herself by pursuing English and Philosophy at Manchester University instead. Her path to project management was anything but conventional — starting with a temp job in construction that sparked her love for the field. From admin assistant at Pell Project to leading high-stakes retail fit-outs for M&S, she shares how her career evolved rapidly, all while completing a degree in construction at London Southbank University. We follow her transition into consultancy with Davis Langdon (later AECOM), where she delivered major retail schemes and eventually became a regional director. After the birth of her children and navigating work during the pandemic, Yaeger began to reassess what success looked like. A life coach, therapy, and an empowering women’s development course shifted her mindset—leading to the founding of Bloom in July 2023. She shares the three powerful questions that guided her leap: How long have you got left to work? How do you want to spend that time? And who with? Now focused on values-driven growth and putting people at the heart of every project, Yaeger’s mission with Bloom is to create a space of opportunity — for herself, her team, and her clients. If you're at a crossroads in your career or dreaming of doing things differently, this episode is for you. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Yaeger Irwin You can follow Yaeger on LinkedIn starts with seeds of ideas and allows them the freedom to grow and flourish. Led by founder Yaeger Irwin, Bloom offers a flexible and collaborative approach where projects are completed in an open and honest partnership. They will take your vision and develop and nurture it, delivering outstanding results that surpass your expectations. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/36124785

Ep 19 | From Surveyor to CEO – Sam Wallis’ Journey 03/25/2025

Ep 19 | From Surveyor to CEO – Sam Wallis’ Journey In this episode, I sit down with Sam Wallis, CEO of GIA, to explore his unconventional path to leadership. Growing up in Southport and studying on the Isle of Man, Sam initially wanted to pursue a career in medicine before realising it wasn’t his true passion. His time in Edinburgh opened new doors and while he never envisioned becoming a chartered surveyor, he followed the family trade, securing a first-class degree and valuable work experience along the way. Sam shares pivotal moments from his career, including early roles at EC Harris and Malcolm Hollis (now Hollis Global) and how his ambition led him to work in Australia before returning to the UK. He opens up about the decision to co-found GIA, its rapid expansion from two to twenty employees and the challenges of private equity investment and business growth. We also discuss leadership struggles, time management and the importance of soft skills in business. Sam reflects on the lessons he's learned, from adapting leadership styles to keeping teams engaged. Plus, he shares his strategies for maintaining discipline - like email power hours, walking commutes and turning off notifications - to stay focused in a demanding role. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on career pivots, entrepreneurial growth and what it really takes to scale a business while leading effectively. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by providing project and cost management services for real estate clients. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Sam Wallis You can follow Sam on LinkedIn . is the UK and Ireland’s leading practice for Daylight, Sunlight, Rights of Light and related technology services. They use cutting-edge technology to accurately analyse and inform, providing a contextual approach to planning and development. Their mission is to passionately and creatively tackle challenges in the built environment, revolutionising the industry by providing incisive solutions for every project they consult on. They work with architects, owners, occupiers, developers and planning consultants across both the public and private sectors. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/35855620

Ep 18 | Kara Thompson - From Small-Town Ambition to Industry Leadership 03/25/2025

Ep 18 | Kara Thompson - From Small-Town Ambition to Industry Leadership In this episode, I sit down with Kara Thompson, a powerhouse in project management who has carved an impressive career path from Australia to London. Born in Australia, Kara was a natural overachiever — school captain, competitive athlete and eldest of four siblings. Despite excelling in science and psychology at university, she quickly realised her degree wasn’t her calling. Instead, she entered the workforce in administrative roles, starting with the Red Cross Blood Bank before transitioning to the technology and project management sectors. Her career took off when she joined Incoll in 2009, later acquired by Savills, where she thrived in affordable housing and public sector projects. A two-year overseas work experience plan led her to London in 2012 — arriving in a year of grand celebrations, including the Olympics and the Queen’s Jubilee. Initially planning to stay for just a couple of years, Kara found herself drawn to the challenges and excitement of life abroad, eventually spending a decade at Savills. After a career-defining sabbatical where she hiked the GR20 solo, Kara took a leap into a new challenge at Gleeds. Just six months into her leadership role, the pandemic hit, forcing her to manage a 30-person team remotely whilst securing a £400 million mixed-use development. Her resilience paid off, as she continued to grow, innovate and push industry boundaries. Fast forward to 2023, Kara joined FACTION to launch the UK team — a firm redefining project management by hiring only the top 1% of professionals. With a selective client base and a focus on expert advisory, FACTION is setting a new industry standard. Now, as she looks ahead to 2025, Kara remains determined, balancing perseverance with optimism in an ever-evolving market. Tune in to hear how Kara’s competitive nature, relentless drive, and bold career choices have shaped her success — and how she’s challenging the status quo in project management. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Kara Thompson You can follow Kara on LinkedIn are one Global community, who are redefining the Global standard. We are defined by our values — Value Creation, Challenger Thinking, Passion and Collaboration. These values are the guiding principles and behaviours that drive our approach and execution in everything we undertake. Our international community is the driving force behind our distinctiveness. We provide our clients the invaluable advantage of accessing a vast network of global talent that can rapidly scale to meet the ever-changing demands of their projects or organisations. Our difference is in our approach. We listen, identifying solutions and tailoring our service to deliver the best outcome for our clients. We go beyond the norm by providing a comprehensive, fully integrated lifetime value service offering and a single point of accountability. We love talking to people about how we are different, get in touch to learn how our community can benefit you, your organisation or your project. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/35604030

Ep 15 | Building a Legacy in Real Estate with Colin Becker 03/25/2025

Ep 15 | Building a Legacy in Real Estate with Colin Becker In this episode, we sit down with Colin Becker; a seasoned real estate professional who has spent nearly three decades at Metrus, helping shape it into one of London’s leading property advisory firms. Colin shares his journey from a sports-loving teenager to becoming a shareholder in a company that now manages over £6 billion in assets. Colin reflects on his early influences, including the strong family tradition in real estate and the values instilled by his parents — his father’s advice to forge his own path and his mother’s emphasis on the power of human relationships. With a background in Business and Finance and a degree in Estate Management from the University of Westminster, Colin’s career was launched when a coaching opportunity led him to his first work placement in property. At Metrus, Colin quickly cemented himself as an integral part of the business, rising to equity partner within five years. He discusses the transformation of the company from a small team of seven to a thriving organisation with over 67 staff, emphasising the importance of effective leadership, patience, and people-first values. Colin also opens up about the responsibilities of ownership, the art of negotiation and the significance of controlling emotions in high-stakes deals. Beyond the boardroom, Colin treasures the opportunity to mentor and empower others, including his two sons who now work alongside him. He shares timeless advice for success, from embracing patience to writing down personal goals at the start of each year. Tune in for Colin’s invaluable insights on leadership, legacy and the relationships that drive his career and life. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Colin Becker You can follow Colin on LinkedIn is London’s leading bespoke Independent Property Advisor with combined assets under management valued at over £5 billion and an annual rent roll of £300 million from 2,750 tenancies administered throughout the UK. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/34532350

Ep 17 | The Journey of Harriet De Freitas – From Athletics to Real Estate 03/25/2025

Ep 17 | The Journey of Harriet De Freitas – From Athletics to Real Estate In this episode, I sit down with Harriet De Freitas, a Director at Avison Young, to explore her unconventional journey into the property industry. Growing up with parents based in Africa, she spent much of her childhood moving between family and friends, always surrounded by love. Though not naturally academic, she thrived in athletics — ironically sparked by early morning detention runs at school. Harriet’s academic turning point came during her GCSEs at school in Surrey, leading her to pursue geography in her A-levels in Dorset, drawn to its links with the built environment. Despite struggling with dyslexia and feeling unsure about her future, she considered running a farm shop before choosing university as a way to gain direction. She attended Bristol University, where she studied Geography with Environmental Management and was inspired by friends pursuing careers in real estate. After university, Harriet moved to London and worked at a headhunting firm, quickly learning the importance of work ethic and self-motivation. Realising she wanted a professional qualification, she initially considered teaching but ultimately pursued a master's in real estate at South Bank University. During her studies, she gained hands-on experience at a small surveying practice and through work experience at Edward Simmonds. Harriet’s early real estate career saw her working at Nightingale Partners, gaining insight into London’s investment market, before moving into leasing at Tuckerman in 2015, focusing on the Victoria and Westminster markets. In 2022, she made the leap to Avison Young, joining a larger team during a personally turbulent time but embracing the challenge. She has since been involved in cross-selling business development and recently participated in a panel discussion forecasting 2025’s market trends. Beyond her professional achievements, Harriet is deeply involved in fundraising as Chair of the West End Agency Society. An avid runner, she’s set to take on the London Marathon in 2025, a charity swim across the Caribbean, and marathons in Berlin, Chicago and Medoc. Join us as we uncover Harriet’s inspiring story of perseverance, adaptability and her relentless drive to push boundaries in both real estate and sport. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Harriet De Freitas You can follow Harriet on LinkedIn . is built on the belief that commercial real estate isn’t just about the buildings and the square footage and the occupancies. At its best it’s about spaces and places that improve lives and help businesses thrive; for the employees, citizens and communities that make impact matter. Avison Young strive to be real estate at its best, helping people be more productive, prosperous and positive. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/35338980

Ep 16 | Building the Future with Christopher Husband 03/25/2025

Ep 16 | Building the Future with Christopher Husband In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Husband, co-founder of Radcliffes, to explore his journey from a childhood fascination with property to leading a dynamic construction consultancy. Coming from a real estate family, Christopher always had an eye for the built environment, but his path wasn’t conventional - leaning more toward creativity than academia. After studying Investment and Finance in Property at Reading University, he carved out a role for himself in project management at Drivers Jonas, which took him as far as Dubai. In 2013, he co-founded Hush, his first business venture, before amicably parting ways to establish Radcliffes with Josh McEvoy and later Nick Cady. Over the last eight years, the trio has built a company that blends project management, BIM, information and asset management and environmental consulting - all while staying client-first and value-driven. Christopher shares the highs and lows of growing Radcliffes, the importance of team culture, and why he encourages employees to build their own brand within the industry. With a team of 20 passionate professionals, Radcliffes continues to grow, expanding into retail, large-scale energy and commercial development in 2025 while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Tune in for an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, leadership and the future of property and construction. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Christopher Husband You can follow Christopher on LinkedIn here. is a construction and development consultancy with a reputation for intelligent delivery of complex, high-quality projects. They work with some of the UK’s leading commercial developers, landlords and real estate funds, local authorities, tenants and high-net worth individuals. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/35094325

Ep 14 | Making Moves: From Property Rookie to Industry Leader with Tobi Crosbie 03/25/2025

Ep 14 | Making Moves: From Property Rookie to Industry Leader with Tobi Crosbie In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey behind Making Moves. A business built on a foundation of resilience, culture, and innovation. Our guest shares how he stumbled into a property degree at Sheffield Hallam University, igniting a passion for business through urban land economics and financial insights. From a transformative placement year at DTZ in Manchester to landing a graduate role in their London office, he recounts navigating the challenges of the 2008 financial crash and the lessons learned from big transactions that spanned years. Seeking a more dynamic lifestyle, he pivoted to Devono, mastering the art of managing multiple deals and a growing team. Yet, his entrepreneurial spirit couldn’t be contained. By selling his flat, he took the leap to start Making Moves in 2015; a business built with culture at its heart and a mantra of “people lead to profit.” Over the years, Making Moves has grown to a 34-strong team, with a focus on training, strategic hiring and fostering a supportive workplace. From overcoming the challenges of 2020 to setting record-breaking revenue goals, the company now eyes expansion with a new residential team. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of building a thriving agency, the importance of adaptability and what it takes to lead a business into the future. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Tobi Crosbie You can follow Tobi on LinkedIn Making Moves London advise forward thinking businesses on their London office strategies, covering the whole London market. They represent occupiers, never landlords, which means they can offer impartial, bespoke advise to their clients. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/34153615

Ep 13 | From Law to Real Estate: Michelle Marwood’s Unexpected Journey 03/25/2025

Ep 13 | From Law to Real Estate: Michelle Marwood’s Unexpected Journey In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Marwood, Head of Corporate Real Estate at Norton Rose Fulbright, to explore her remarkable career journey. From her industrious school days and a love for academics to her unexpected foray into real estate, Michelle shares how her career has been shaped by curiosity, adaptability and the power of networking. Starting with dreams of becoming a criminal barrister, Michelle studied law at Cardiff University, delving into areas like penology and rehabilitation. Her early career saw her working on licensing agreements for major Hollywood cartoon characters but it was a newspaper job ad for Bloomberg that set her on a path she hadn’t planned. During her decade at Bloomberg, Michelle developed a passion for real estate, learning on the job while handling global office setups and transitioning into the property team. This role ignited her fascination with the built environment, leading her to major projects, including Bloomberg’s New York headquarters. Michelle reflects on her stints at financial giants like Citibank and Morgan Stanley, as well as her time at Kirkland Ellis, where she travelled extensively across the U.S. After moving back to the UK in 2017 for family reasons, she joined Blackstone before landing at Norton Rose Fulbright in 2020. Now, Michelle oversees property management and built environments while championing work-life balance through NRF’s flexible 2:2:1 working model. She shares insights on the evolving workplace landscape, the unpredictability of the coming years and why companies with entrepreneurial spirit inspire her. Join us as Michelle unpacks her journey, from law to real estate, proving that sometimes the best careers are the ones you stumble upon. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Michelle Marwood You can follow Michelle on LinkedIn provides a full scope of legal services to the world’s preeminent corporations and financial institutions. The global law firm has more than 3,000 lawyers advising clients across more than 50 locations worldwide. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/33942037

Ep 12 | From Thirdway to Anomaly: redefining architecture with Liam Spencer 03/25/2025

Ep 12 | From Thirdway to Anomaly: redefining architecture with Liam Spencer In this episode, I sit down with Liam Spencer, co-founder of Anomaly, who takes us on his journey as a thoughtful and academic child with no burning desire to become an architect, to co-founding a thriving architectural practice with Petr Esposito. Initially interested in medicine, Liam's curiosity for architecture grew during his studies at Edinburgh and Westminster, where he found a balance between academia and practicality. After his first role as a graduate, Liam discovered a passion for retrofitting buildings where he eventually met his business partner; Petr while working on projects like Pinnacle and Wellington. This collaboration sparked a new chapter in their careers, leading to the development of Thirdway — a firm known for breaking the mold of traditional architecture by offering turnkey solutions to their clients. Liam reflects on the rapid growth of their practice, the challenges they faced as they expanded too quickly, and how they leaned on their centralised HR during turbulent times. As the pandemic hit, they made the grown-up decision to scale back and rebrand, leading to the birth of Anomaly. With a core focus on sustainable design and maintaining strong relationships, Anomaly quickly established itself in the market, working with clients like Kinrise and delivering innovative projects. Join us as Liam shares his insights on growing a business organically, the importance of real-time communication, and why relationships are key in the fast-paced world of architecture. Plus, hear his thoughts on the office market’s recovery and why the future looks brighter than ever. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost-management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Liam Spencer You can follow Liam on LinkedIn isn’t your run-of-the-mill architecture practice. They see themselves as outsiders in the best way possible; a collection of architects, designers and creatives who believe in challenging the most archaic aspects of traditional architecture. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/33355017

Ep 11 | From Stage to Skyline: Michelle Anthony’s Journey of Resilience, Leadership, and Sustainable Development 03/25/2025

Ep 11 | From Stage to Skyline: Michelle Anthony’s Journey of Resilience, Leadership, and Sustainable Development In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Anthony, Head of Development at Oxygen Asset Management, to hear her fascinating journey from aspiring actress to leading over £1 billion in capital projects. Starting her career far from real estate, Michelle’s early love for English and drama led her to London’s theatre scene—until a vocal injury forced her to pivot into sales and eventually the world of development. Michelle shares how her entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of The Building Exchange, a business venture designed to give senior business leaders insight into how industries function across different cities. However, her biggest career shift came when she joined Cube, a project management and quantity surveying firm before a chance meeting at MIPIM 2014 opened the door to Oxygen Asset Management. As the first woman at Oxygen, Michelle talks candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome and building a development team from scratch. Her ethos is clear: adding value is key, and if money isn’t being spent wisely, it’s not worth doing. From working solo to now managing transformational projects, Michelle and her team have saved over 50,000 tonnes of carbon through innovative reuse and repositioning strategies. Tune in to hear Michelle’s insights on the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and constantly pushing boundaries in the real estate industry. With her passion for sustainable development and projects growing from £5m to £120m, Michelle is excited about the future and the impact her work will continue to make. I can't wait to hear your thoughts. See you next time, Steve ---- This podcast is sponsored by , providing cost management services for commercial projects in London. And finally, connect with me on where I share my thoughts on industry insights and updates. ---- Guest: Michelle Anthony You can follow Michelle on LinkedIn is a leading asset and investment management business based in London. /episode/index/show/1cf7077a-fffc-4c23-9b7d-fd569c212cfa/id/32994312