Made in Dubai with Spencer Lodge

  What if the challenges you were given were actually your biggest advantage?  In this episode, Spencer sits down with Ahmed Ben Chaibah, an entrepreneur who turned ADHD and dyslexia into the very traits that fueled his success. What many see as limitations, he learned to use as a competitive edge.  From early struggles in school to building a business empire spanning 33 countries, Ahmed's journey is a story of resilience, persistence, and redefining what success looks like.  This conversation goes beyond business. It explores the mindset required to keep going through rejection, the role of environment and opportunity in places like Dubai, and why discipline matters more than motivation when building something long-term.  Ahmed shares lessons from failure, the importance of branding and location in scaling a business, and how social media has played a key role in expansion. He also reflects on purpose, giving back, and why true success is not just about wealth, but impact.    Timestamps  00:00 – Overcoming ADHD, dyslexia, and early rejection 03:10 – Discovering entrepreneurship and first business steps 06:25 – Building a water park business across 33 countries 10:40 – Why Dubai creates unique opportunities for entrepreneurs 14:15 – Cultural mindset, government support, and business growth 18:30 – Breaking expectations and choosing a different path 22:05 – Lessons from failure and business setbacks 26:10 – The power of persistence and obsession 30:20 – Branding, location, and scaling a global business 34:45 – Leveraging social media for growth 39:10 – Navigating partnerships and challenges 43:50 – The emotional side of entrepreneurship 48:30 – Discipline vs motivation: what actually drives success 52:40 – The role of self-belief and mental resilience 57:15 – Giving back and building a purpose-driven life 1:02:30 – Why success is more than money 1:07:45 – Future trends in wellness and entrepreneurship 1:12:10 – Leaving a legacy and empowering the next generation    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media:  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Aquaman – Ahmed Ben Chaibah on Social Media:  https://www.instagram.com/theaquaman  https://www.tiktok.com/@ahmedbenchaibah  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmed-ben-chaibah-6b48668/  https://www.youtube.com/@AhmedBenChaibah 

What should schools really be teaching the next generation?  In this episode, Spencer sits down with Tomas Duckling, Headmaster of one of the most prestigious schools in the UAE, to explore the pressures shaping modern education, the role of parents in an increasingly competitive system, the impact of technology and AI on learning and why the future of education must focus on building good humans, not just high achievers.  Tomas' path into education was unexpected. After travelling the world in his early twenties, he began working at a North London school supporting refugees and immigrant communities. What started as a temporary role quickly became a calling, launching an international career that took him from Brunei to Aiglon College in Switzerland, one of the world's most expensive schools.  Now leading Dubai College, Tomas believes schools should focus on far more than exam results. His mission is to develop character, empathy, kindness, and leadership, preparing students not just for academic success but to become good humans who can make a meaningful impact on the world.    Timestamps: 00:00 – Introducing Tomas Duckling and Dubai College 02:05 – The history of Dubai College and why it's so oversubscribed 04:15 – Removing the debenture system and creating merit-based admissions 07:12 – Tomas' unconventional journey into teaching 10:03 – From London classrooms to international schools in Brunei 13:48 – Teaching at Aiglon College in Switzerland 17:10 – How global experiences shaped his philosophy on education 21:02 – Why academic results alone are not enough 24:30 – The importance of character, kindness, and empathy in schools 27:18 – The pressures parents place on modern education 31:05 – Comparing the UK, European, and UAE education systems 34:12 – The future of learning in a world shaped by AI 38:20 – Why human skills will matter more than ever 42:45 – The Edge Curriculum: teaching empathy, design, and entrepreneurship 47:30 – Encouraging students to solve real-world problems 50:15 – Bullying, kindness, and creating positive school culture 54:40 – The role of sport, extracurriculars, and resilience 58:10 – The debate around homeschooling and social development 01:02:20 – Diversity and multicultural education in Dubai 01:05:15 – The real purpose of education in the 21st century    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media:  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/   Follow Tomas Duckling on Social Media:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomas-duckling/  https://www.instagram.com/dubaicollege/  

Modern medicine has achieved incredible breakthroughs. But what happens when someone challenges the entire system?  In this episode, Spencer sits down with Barbara O'Neill, one of the most talked-about and polarizing figures in the global wellness space. Loved by many and criticized by others, Barbara has built a massive following by encouraging people to question mainstream health advice and explore natural approaches to healing.  Barbara shares her perspectives on topics that continue to spark discussion around the world. From the body's ability to heal itself, to diet, detoxification, gut health, pregnancy nutrition, and why she believes many people misunderstand the role of modern health care.  This episode explores the thinking behind her views on PTSD, COVID-era health policies, folic acid, fasting, colon cleansing, and hormonal health. Whether you agree with her or not, her perspective has sparked millions of conversations across the wellness world.    Timestamps : 00:00 – Introducing Barbara O'Neill and why she sparks global debate 03:15 – Escaping a violent marriage with six children 08:40 – The turning point that led her into psychiatric nursing 12:05 – Observing the limits of conventional treatment 16:30 – The belief that the body can heal itself 20:10 – Why she encourages people to question mainstream health advice 24:20 – Childhood environment and long-term health 28:15 – Diet, gut health, and disease prevention 33:40 – Her views on PTSD and emotional trauma 38:05 – COVID-era policies and public health debates 43:10 – Detoxification, fasting, and colon cleansing 48:20 – Coffee enemas and natural detox practices 52:40 – Pregnancy nutrition and the folic acid discussion 57:30 – Hormones, aging, and natural balance 01:02:40 – Longevity and modern lifestyle diseases 01:07:15 – Are doctors extending life or extending sickness?    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media:  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/   Follow Barbara O'Neill on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/realbarbaraoneill/  https://www.facebook.com/realbarbaraoneill/   https://www.tiktok.com/@realbarbaraoneill  https://officialbarbaraoneill.com/  https://www.instagram.com/empowerliving.global/   

Cancer is not a foreign invader. It is a failure of defense.  In this episode, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, surgeon, scientist, inventor and one of the most influential figures in modern medicine, lays out a radical idea: your body already knows how to defeat cancer. The question is whether we are activating it… or suppressing it.  Born in apartheid South Africa and driven by what he calls a duty to fight for the underdog, Dr. Soon-Shiong went from performing complex surgeries in Los Angeles to inventing Abraxane, a breakthrough nanoparticle chemotherapy now used worldwide. But he believes chemotherapy was only chapter one, Chapter two is immunity.  He breaks down the role of the 450 million year old Natural Killer cell and why it may be the missing piece in cancer prevention, then dives into IL-15, once ranked the most promising molecule to cure cancer and now approved in 33 countries, with new ground in lung cancer treatment in Saudi Arabia.  Dr. Soon-Shiong also shares his warning of a coming "pandemic of cancer," the controversy around COVID vaccine development, the overlooked $10 blood test hidden inside routine labs that predicts mortality risk, and how camel nanobodies, AI and robotics may democratize treatments that once cost $1 million.  If you care about longevity, cancer prevention, or the future of medicine, this episode matters.    Timestamps:  00:00 – First impressions of the Middle East and the crisis of trust  08:17 – What cancer really is and the role of the Natural Killer cell  14:08 – The warning: a possible pandemic of cancer in young people  16:47 – The T-cell COVID vaccine controversy  24:40 – IL-15: ranked the #1 molecule to cure cancer  29:07 – Breaking news: approvals in 33 countries and Saudi Arabia  31:06 – Immunity, aging, and the link to longevity  37:53 – The $10 blood test hidden in plain sight for 30 years  39:28 – Why camels and sharks don't get cancer  44:32 – From apartheid South Africa to billionaire inventor  48:13 – Turning $1 million CAR-T therapy into a $25,000 robotic solution  50:33 – Why the Middle East could lead the next biotech revolution    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media:  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076    Follow Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong on Social Media:  https://x.com/DrPatrick

  Success looks impressive. Impact feels different.  In this episode, Fadie Musallet shares his transformation from a troubled youth in Miami to a purpose-driven entrepreneur and philanthropist in Dubai. This is not just a business story. It is a story about redemption, faith, resilience, and choosing to build a legacy that serves others.  This conversation explores what really shapes a man. The losses that humble you. The rejection that sharpens you. The family roots that anchor you when success tries to pull you off course.  At the heart of this episode is impact. The founding of The Giving Family charity, feeding thousands during Ramadan, and the philosophy he calls "passive blessings over passive income." In a world obsessed with scale and status, Fadie challenges the audience to ask a harder question: What are you building that will outlive you?    Timestamps: 00:05 – From wild youth in Miami to purposeful giving  03:13 – The power of kindness and leaving a legacy  08:43 – Lessons learned through loss and resilience  11:37 – Palestinian roots, love, and identity  18:13 – Moving to Dubai and starting over  23:54 – Building a medical distribution and brokering business  33:18 – Mastering networks, handling rejection, and closing deals  43:02 – Behind the scenes of Dubai Bling  58:25 – Launching FadieCakes and the business of desserts  1:04:50 – Founding The Giving Family and feeding communities  1:11:56 – Making volunteering part of everyday life  1:14:50 – Ramadan beyond fasting  1:23:18 – Regrets, growth, and defining success  1:25:32 – Passive blessings over passive income  1:28:26 – The challenges of fundraising in Dubai  1:29:41 – How you can help feed those in need    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Fadie Musallet on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/fadiee     

Trauma changes you. For some, it becomes a weight that never lifts. For others, it becomes a catalyst. In this episode, Dr. Gian Power shares the deeply personal story that shaped his life and leadership journey. From childhood shyness and quiet ambition to navigating the devastating and unresolved murder of his father, this conversation explores how unimaginable loss can redefine purpose. Dr. Gian reflects on loyalty, trust, justice, and the emotional toll of public tragedy. He speaks candidly about grief, identity, and the difficult process of rebuilding while carrying unanswered questions. Beyond the personal story, this episode dives into the future of leadership. In a world rapidly shaped by AI and automation, Dr. Gian explains why human skills, storytelling, emotional intelligence, and authentic connection are becoming more valuable than ever. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and the responsibility leaders have to build workplaces that are not just productive, but deeply human. A raw and thoughtful discussion on adversity, performance, culture, and what it truly means to lead with strength and compassion.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Turning trauma into a catalyst for leadership 02:18 – Early years: childhood, identity, and ambition 10:15 – The disappearance and murder that changed everything 18:29 – Media scrutiny and the search for truth 25:30 – Processing grief and navigating unresolved trauma 30:50 – Rebuilding through purpose and community 38:00 – Storytelling as a leadership superpower 45:19 – Returning to the corporate world with a new lens 52:41 – AI, automation, and the rise of human skills 1:14:00 – Kindness, fairness, and vulnerability in leadership 1:07:42 – Building resilient, high-performance cultures 1:15:29 – The resilience mindset in an AI-driven future 1:20:20 – Final reflections: connection, purpose, and impact   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Dr. Gian Power on Social Media: https://gianpower.com/ https://www.instagram.com/gianpower  https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCp2VTK7cLAuJw8-u_PTreRw  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianpower  

  Hypnosis is often misunderstood and dismissed as performance or placebo.   In this conversation, Ebrahim Turner, widely known as the "billionaire hypnotist," breaks down what hypnosis really is and why it has become one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional transformation.   From rewiring habits and addressing deep-rooted trauma to improving performance in business and high-pressure environments like Dubai, Ebrahim explains how the subconscious mind quietly shapes our behavior, decisions, and emotional responses.   This episode explores why lasting change doesn't come from motivation alone, how trauma shows up in unexpected ways and why vulnerability is often the gateway to real confidence and success.   A raw, practical conversation about anxiety, identity, perception, and what happens when external success no longer masks internal struggle.  Timestamps 00:00 – The journey into hypnosis 02:11 – What hypnosis really is (and isn't) 04:36 – Suggestibility and the subconscious mind 08:26 – Success rates, expectations, and lasting change 10:54 – Skepticism around hypnosis 12:10 – Trust and safety in the process 15:08 – Working with high performers and billionaires 18:11 – Rapid Transformational Therapy explained 20:06 – Habits, patterns, and subconscious programming 23:34 – ADHD, trauma, and emotional roots 25:36 – Identifying the real core issue 30:08 – Using hypnosis in business and leadership 33:02 – The emotional reality of sales 37:05 – Fragility, resilience, and pressure 38:36 – Identity, self-image, and performance 41:07 – Discomfort, vulnerability, and growth 45:06 – Anxiety and imposter syndrome 52:46 – Revisiting trauma and emotional release 01:07:11 – Breath, awareness, and perspective shifts 01:09:08 – Visualizing success and changing perception 01:11:52 – Fear, confidence, and self-belief 01:14:51 – Transformational moments and breakthroughs 01:18:03 – Understanding emotional responses 01:21:57 – Social pressure, expectations, and comparison 01:25:53 – Finding calm in a fast-paced world 01:29:47 – Redefining success and growth 01:33:46 – The future of hypnosis and mindset work    Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Ebrahim Turner on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/ebrahim/  https://www.facebook.com/ebrahimturner/   https://www.youtube.com/@ebrahim.turner  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebrahimturner/   go.ebrahimturner.com/o     

  In this conversation, Lousin Mehrabi sits down with Spencer Lodge for an open and reflective discussion that goes beyond surface-level success. Through thoughtful questioning, Lousin encourages Spencer to open up about the gap between external achievement and internal fulfillment and how family expectations, particularly his relationship with his father, shaped his drive and self-perception.  Spencer reflects on navigating rejection, pressure, and self-doubt, and how resilience, forgiveness, and self-awareness helped him redefine success on his own terms. The conversation also explores the impact of parenting, gratitude, and meaningful connection on personal growth. Spencer shares lessons from his journey in sales, life in Dubai, and using success as a platform for purpose through charity work and storytelling, including a documentary focused on resilience and human impact. A grounded, honest exchange about turning pressure into progress and ambition into something that truly matters.     00:00 The Illusion of Success  02:54 The Weight of Expectations  06:09 The Burden of Shame  08:59 The Struggle with Self-Perception  12:00 The Relentless Pursuit of Achievement  15:05 The Challenge of Connection  18:10 The Impact of Family Dynamics  20:57 The Journey of Forgiveness  24:05 The Role of Parenting  27:10 The Power of Resilience  30:03 The Path to Financial Success  32:57 The Fear of Rejection  45:42 The Numbers Game of Rejection  48:10 Learning the Sales Process  54:51 The Journey Through Different Countries  57:39 Life in Dubai: A Personal Perspective  01:00:13 Helping Others: The Power of Charity  01:08:30 The Documentary: A Story of Resilience  01:13:42 The Inner Struggle: Balancing Success and Responsibility    Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers    Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Lousin Mehrabi on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/lousinmehrabi   https://www.youtube.com/@lousinmehrabi   https://www.linkedin.com/in/lousin-mehrabi    

Charlie Mullins is a deeply contradictory and complex figure - from a deprived council-estate childhood in south London to founding a plumbing empire, cashing out for £148 million and remaking himself as a global-living, politically outspoken tycoon. He embodies both the grit of old-school trades and the excesses of modern wealth. His post-sale life is marked by public provocation - from giant anti-Brexit signs to incendiary social media posts, and threats to relocate his wealth abroad which are now in force as he is here to get his residency. His journey offers a potent lens: success, escape, conflict, and reinvention, but also tension, moral ambiguity. He is confrontational, outspoken and a political provocateur.   2:40 – Charlie's childhood 6:03 – Plumber apprenticeship 09:56 – Bill, the man Charlie looked up to 17:28 – The importance of apprenticeships 20:22 – Success is simple 21:58 – Nearly going bankrupt 25:34 – Selling for 148 million 26:19 – Charlie's regrets 32:17 – People pay for quality 40:53 – London is unsafe 45:16 – The importance of having a job 50:08 – Coming to Dubai 54:15 – Favorite things about Dubai 57:31 – Youngsters don't have a future in the UK 1:02:53 – An opinion that would break the internet 1:04:43 – Harshest truth about success 1:07:25 – Charlie's message to Bill   Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers   Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586194260076 https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Charlie Mullins on Social Media https://www.charliemullinsobe.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charliem_obe https://x.com/CharlieM_OBE/  

This episode isn't about motivation. It's about perspective. Cyrus Rustom shares the moments that reshaped how he sees life — from joining the Marines at 16 to escape chaos at home, to surviving an accident he was certain he wouldn't live through, to rebuilding everything afterward. We talk about business failures, discipline myths, opening a company one week before Covid shut the world down and why real risk isn't danger — it's waiting for certainty that never comes. This conversation isn't polished or performative. It's about identity, loss, belonging, and what changes when you realise time isn't guaranteed. Some decisions aren't heroic. They're survival.   3:31 – Learning What Not to Do 5:28 – The Biggest Mistakes 09:35 – The Discipline Lie 12:37 – The Start of Boxica 14:32 - Worst Timing Possible 16:12 – Making People Feel Welcome at The Gym 24:05 – Entrepreneurship 24:52 – What is Success? 36:27 - I Joined the Marines at 16 39:35 – The World of the Marines 54:44 - Crushed Between Two Vehicles 1:01:42 - Perspective Saved Me 1:05:27 - Leaving Was Lonely 1:07:42 - I Wouldn't Change What Happened   Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers   Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Cyrus Rustom on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/coachcyrus/ https://www.instagram.com/boxica/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyrus-rustom-350a7098/?originalSubdomain=ae

From buying Bitcoin at $66 to tokenizing gas fields. In this episode, Sebastian Huth reveals the hidden lessons most people miss about crypto, tokenization, real estate and creator economy.  Learn why leaving your crypto on exchanges is a huge risk, why infrastructure beats hype every time and how tokenization is about to change the way we own almost everything, including real estate and even energy.  Don't miss the shocking stats about creators losing millions on streaming platforms and how Air channel could be the next game-changer.      2:59 Buying Bitcoin at 66.99$  6:35 Crypto is only the tip of the iceberg  7:32 How to tokenize a property  10:24 How to buy tokens  12:13 Why choose tokenization over the traditional way  15:51 You can tokenize anything  18:07 The process broken down  20:15 The importance of creating your own wallet  24:25 Air: Artificial Intelligence Radio  29:10 Content creators don't make enough money from traditional platforms  37:34 Redefining the audio space     Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences.  https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers       Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Sebastian Huth on Social Media  https://www.sebastian-huth.com/en/contact   

Peter Doyle's life proves that success isn't a straight line and that sometimes, losing everything is the beginning of becoming who you're meant to be.  From the worlds' top DJ booths and global stages to sleeping in the back of a Toyota Yaris in Dubai when things got really tough, Peter opens up about the highs, the lows and the moments that nearly broke him.   With no passport, no money and no one coming to save him, he was forced to dig deeper than ever before. What followed was a complete reinvention; one built on discipline, faith and relentless self-belief.  This is a raw, honest conversation about resilience, reinvention, and why it's never too late to start again.    2:30 - 6:30 The curious kid  6:32 – 14:27 From kid DJ to global opener  14:28 – 20:40 DJ-ing or the family?  20:41 – 29:03 Started a new life at 38  29:04 – 32:35 From DJ to asset management  32:36 – 44:33 Penniless in Dubai  44:34 – 1:04:10 The turning point    Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences.  https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers      Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Peter Doyle on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/petedoyle.co.uk  https://www.tiktok.com/@consultgroupworldwide  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterdoyle-cgw/  https://www.youtube.com/@consultgroupworldwide  https://www.facebook.com/consultgroupworldwide/     

This episode takes a look back on 2025 and lifts the lid on Spencer's journey so far as a long form content creator, podcaster, entrepreneur and incredible storyteller. In this episode Spencer speaks from the heart about the big names along the way and the impact of his show on his life, and the guests around him, including what doesn't show up on the highlight reel.  From nearly quitting the show (more than once), to falling asleep mid-recording, to losing a full episode forever, Spencer opens up to us about the real emotional and operational reality of building a long-form meaningful podcast.  Raj pulls back the curtain on how Episode 100 was secretly produced as a surprise, why the show pivoted from chasing big names to telling human stories and holding worthwhile conversations, to how "success" can still feel unachieved even when things look great from the outside.  Raj and Spencer talk about redefining success as impact, kindness and consistency, the internal "me vs me" mindset and the moments that proved the show genuinely mattered — including an email from a listener that changed everything...    This is a behind-the-scenes conversation about:  2:30 - 5:58 The story behind the podcast  5:58 – 27:26 how Episode 100 was secretly produced as a surprise  27:26 – 49:39 The impact my guests have had on me  49:40 – 1:00:10 From Spencer Lodge podcast to Made in Dubai  1:00:10 – 1:13:10 Dubai's impact on spencer  1:13:10 – 1:17:00 Fear of failure   1:17:00 – 1:23:27 Falling asleep during a recording   1:23:27 – 1:25:00 2026 goals  1:25:00 – 1:44:28 Kindness isn't my superpower    Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences.  https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers       Socials:   Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media  https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en  https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en   https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge   https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/   https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV   https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/      Follow Raj Kotecha on Social Media  https://www.youtube.com/rajkotecha  https://www.instagram.com/rajkotecha/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajkotecha/?originalSubdomain=ae  https://open.spotify.com/show/3RDJUu5Cv16q9XXgsKAeny?si=f2475432a80d4402&nd=1&dlsi=9eb65a03b26d41dc 

 This week's guest is Sam MCone, a lifelong Dubai resident and the visionary founder of McCone Properties. Having moved to Dubai at the age of two, Sam has a unique, ground-level perspective on the city's meteoric rise from a quiet trading post to a global powerhouse. His journey in real estate began as an agent, but his innate, level-headed resilience led him to build his own successful brokerage over the past 13 years. In this deeply personal episode, Sam opens up about the tough lessons learned from transitioning from being a tennis ace as a youth, to a top salesperson then to becoming a business owner. He shares invaluable insights on finding a niche in a saturated market of 9,000 brokerages and the uncomfortable but vital role of social media in building a brand. Beyond business, Sam gives a raw and honest account of his complex relationship with his past as a tennis academy student, the challenges that shaped him, and how it contrasts with his current extreme physical challenges, including his upcoming attempt to run 200km in 24 hours to raise 1 million AED for The Sparkle Foundation in Malawi.   01:40 - Growing Up with Dubai 05:30 - An Honest Audit of Dubai's Pros & Cons 09:53 - The Coming Real Estate Correction 17:29 - From Salesman to CEO 23:20 - Carving a Niche in a Crowded Market 42:12 – Running 200 KM in 24 hrs 45:01 – The Past Trauma 48:01 - Parenting Through the Lens of Past Trauma 56:40 - The Story Behind the 200km Run and self-worth   Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Socials:  Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Sam McCone on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/sam.mccone/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-mccone-7b750435/?originalSubdomain=ae https://www.tiktok.com/@mccone_properties https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-A0gljutHXS7MbZO6jldkQ https://www.facebook.com/mcconeproperties/                 

Join us on Made in Dubai as we sit down with Nico de Corato, an ultra-endurance athlete, entrepreneur who is passionate about the UAE. From ultra-marathons and mountain biking to freediving, jet skiing, and desert adventures, Nico's story spans resilience, discipline, and pushing beyond limits. In this episode, Nico shares: How he moved from Naples to Dubai and mindset behind his training ultra marathons, 200 km races and achieving the Dubai Sports Challenge Why sports are a lifestyle, not just a hobby, and that lessons from the unseen moments alone in the desert have made him who is today How setbacks and challenges can be used a positive motivator to set even great goals, even when no one was supporting him and thought he was seriously unwell (TBC) Perfect for anyone interested in Dubai, extreme sports, ultramarathons, personal growth, and balancing life and extreme challenges while making a home in Dubai. This episode is a deep dive into the life of someone who truly lives without limits. Tune in, get inspired, and discover what it really takes to conquer Dubai – on a mountain bike or alone in the desert.   03:30 – From Napoli to Dubai 09:10 – When everything that can go wrong, goes wrong 10:57 – Nico's health problems 13:31 – Nico breaking his sternum 16:20 – Coming to Dubai in 2004 17:11— Solo triathlon for the 49th UAE National Day 20:48 – 200 KM solo run 21:52 – Nico's mom passing away & honouring her 23:16 - Nico having no support when he first moved to Dubai 30:07 – Nico's mindset and discipline 42:45- Why do people hate Dubai? 48:56 – Nico's way of encouraging people to run 51:41: Nico's first run   Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Socials: Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Nico de Corato on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/nicodecorato/ https://www.youtube.com/c/nicodecorato https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicodecorato/?originalSubdomain=ae https://www.facebook.com/nicodecorato/

This week's guest is Sahar Khan, the dynamic Head of Marketing at Bayut. A foundational member of the team, Sahar joined Bayut in 2014 as one of its first sales employees and has been instrumental in building the brand into the UAE's leading property portal. With a innate passion for creative, out-of-the-box marketing since childhood, she has spearheaded some of the company's most iconic campaigns, including the landmark partnership with Chris Hemsworth. In this episode, Sahar takes us through her incredible journey from a salesperson in a small startup to leading marketing for a household name. She shares invaluable insights on building a brand in a unique market like the UAE, the evolution of her marketing strategies, and the delicate balance between sales and marketing teams. Sahar also opens about her leadership philosophy, the importance of staying true to one's principles, and how maintaining a clear mind through fitness is crucial to her success.   2:41 - Humble Beginnings at Bayut 4:04 - A Marketer from the Start 5:55 - Marketing in the UAE: A Unique Playbook 8:45 - Sales vs. Marketing: The Eternal Friction 11:55 - From Underdog to Market Leader 13:27 – Working with Chris Hemsworth 20:00 - Solving Industry Problems: Content and Verification 30:13 - Live Events vs. Digital Marketing Measuring the intangible impact of live events like the iconic B3 launch and the clear metrics of digital campaigns. 36:57 – Dubai's booming real estate market 42:51 - Where Big Ideas Come From 52:15 - Giving Back: More Than Money 55:10 - A Personal Conversation on Principles and Pain 1:08:09 - Starting Over: Lessons for Bayut 2.0 Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Socials:  Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Sahar Khan on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/saharkdxb/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahar-khan-9127958a/  

Sebastian Bates is a British entrepreneur, author, and martial artist best known as the founder of the Warrior Academy, a Dubai-based organisation dedicated to developing children's confidence, focus, and resilience through martial arts. With over 25 years of experience and a background in professional martial arts and extreme sports. He is the best-selling author of The Warrior Method and Not a Victim, host of the Warrior Academy Podcast, and founder of the Bates Foundation and the "Not A Victim" anti-bullying campaign, initiatives that reflect his commitment to empowering young people and fostering positive character growth worldwide. In this episode, Sebastian dives deep into the journey behind founding the Warrior Academy and the powerful mission driving its global impact. He discusses how early life challenges and experiences with bullying shaped his vision for empowering children through character development and martial arts. Listeners will hear insights on transforming victim mentality into resilience, the psychology behind bullying, and how celebrating a child as a victim can unintentionally disempower them. Sebastian also explains the Warrior Academy's unique approach to measuring the "3Cs"— Confidence, Conduct, and Concentration and why focusing on the lowest "C" drives transformational growth. The episode highlights inspiring testimonials from over 50,000 children who've been through the academy, explores the impact of the Bates Foundation across Eastern Africa, and reflects on how charity work and purpose-driven entrepreneurship can redefine personal and professional success.     02:53 – Sebastian's backstory and why he founded the Warrior Academy 10:20 – Turning testing times into success: using challenges as motivation for growth 14:46 – Symptoms of a victim mentality and practical steps to overcome it 20:56 – Building the Warrior Academy 40:08 – Understanding why bullying occurs and how to support bullies 42:34 – The Bates Foundation: the purpose behind it 56:50 – What drives Sebastian: finding purpose through meaningful impact 59:10 – The role of Dubai in accelerating the commercial growth of the business   Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers       Socials:  Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Sebastian Bates on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/seb.bates/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-bates-4b70412b/ https://www.facebook.com/sebastianbates https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV4Ow_9hgRWxW0LvQhwbbtA https://open.spotify.com/show/1Z6jdkn6vUMIh2agYRddk5

This week's guest is Danny Agg, who leads Zodiac Global with a clear vision for growth, innovation, and excellence, serves as CEO overseeing the company's strategic direction, partnerships, and overall talent strategy. In this episode, Danny dives deep into the evolving world of talent management and influencer marketing. The conversation highlights the critical role of trust in building authentic brands and explores how creators can craft universal content that resonates across audiences and platforms. Listeners gain practical insights on how to get started as a creator and develop multiple revenue streams. The discussion also examines the rapid growth of the global creator economy and looks ahead to the rising influence of AI-driven creators.   03:40 – Zodiac Global: Talent Management & Influencer Marketing 08:10 – Selective Talent: Choosing the Right Creators 17:06 - Growing an Organic Audience Today 21:23 – How Content Resonates Globally 23:13 – How Creators Make Money 27:45 – How to Build Your Own Product 34:35 – Getting Started as a Creator 46:00 – AI Influencers: What's the Future? 57:50 – Danny Agg's Journey into the Creator Space & Personal Story   Show Sponsors:  AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Socials:  Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Danny Agg on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/dannyagg_/ https://www.instagram.com/zodiacglobalgroup/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-agg-62245bbb/

This week's guest is Dr. Nas Al Jafari, a leading Functional Medicine physician and founder of DNA Health in Dubai, renowned for his science-driven, holistic approach to health and wellness. With a focus on uncovering and addressing the root causes of chronic conditions, Dr. Al Jafari integrates the latest medical research with personalised care to help patients achieve optimal well-being. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, he emphasises the importance of nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and integrative therapies. His expertise has earned him a reputation as one of the region's most trusted voices in functional and preventative medicine. In this episode, we explore Dr. Nas Al Jafari's personal journey into Functional Medicine and his approach to addressing the root causes of chronic conditions. He discusses lifestyle, longevity, and preventative health, as well as the evolving challenges of trust in modern healthcare. Dr. Al Jafari shares insights on overnutrition, hormonal optimisation, and emerging therapies such as exosomes and peptides. He also reflects on lessons learned from building his clinic, the four pillars of health, and his experiences practising in Dubai — offering a unique perspective on optimising well-being and transforming healthcare outcomes.   2:40 – Dr. Nas Al Jafari's Backstory 5:40 – Lifestyle, Longevity, and Functional Medicine 19:10 – COVID-19 as a Catalyst for Change 20:19 – The True Meaning of Longevity 28:28 – Championing Preventative Health 40:53 – The Impact of Being Overnourished 49:54 – DNA Health & Wellness Clinics: Lessons Learned 54:20 – Practicing in Dubai: Challenges and Opportunities   Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Socials: Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/  Follow Dr. Nas on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/dr_nas_wellness/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasr-al-jafari-072a4626/?originalSubdomain=ae