Utterly Indispensable Podcast for Estate Agents

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.