Blocktalk - the podcast for UK Property Management Professionals

Blocktalk explores the real stories, challenges, and change shaping the UK block management and factoring industries. Each episode brings together business leaders, policymakers, experts, and industry stakeholders for honest conversations about the issues that matter most — from reform and transparency to technology and customer experience. Hosted by Brian Welsh, CEO of CPL Software, the company powering Proptimo, Blocktalk offers thought-provoking insight drawn from over 30 years of experience in property management, technology, and leadership. Brian is also a certified Clifton Strengths Coach and passionate about driving efficiency, communication, and long-term value in business.

Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

New Episode: Making a Difference with Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus ScotlandIn this special episode of the Blocktalk Podcast, we’re shining a light on the incredible work of Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBHS): our Charity of the Year. Host Brian is joined by:Kim Kilgour, Community & Fundraising Manager, SBHSCarrie McAdam, Storytelling & Communications Lead, SBHSSteven Urquhart, SBHS service userHelen Doyle, People & Culture Director, CPL SoftwareTogether, they explore the life-changing services SBHS provides, Steven’s personal journey as a service user, and the powerful impact of fundraising. They also discuss the importance of businesses partnering with smaller charities and how CPL Software’s Charity of the Year initiative is making a real difference.This episode is a celebration of resilience, community, and the power of giving back. Tune in for an inspiring conversation and find out how you can help support SBHS!Follow the Blocktalk Podcast on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X for more updates.

02-27
43:47

Clientcast October 2024 | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

Blocktalk Podcast: Clientcast - October 2024What’s New at CPL Software (producers of the show)Episode Summary:In this special episode, we’ve got our regular quarterly update for our valued clients on the latest developments and news from the CPL Software team who are producers of the Blocktalk podcast.Our team has been working hard behind the scenes, and we want to share some important updates and insights into the direction our business is heading. Whether you’re a long-time client or new to our services, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what’s been happening and what you can expect from us in the coming months.With: Brian Welsh, CEO; Will McIlmoyle, CTO; Fran Megson, Operations Director and Tom Beswick, Business Development Manager.Timestamp00:40 Intro, Brian Welsh, CEO02:13 Sales & Marketing Update, Tom Beswick, BDM05:25 Ops Update, Fran Megson, Operations Director09:40 Dev update, Will McIlmoyle, CTO**Stay Connected:** Follow us on social media for real-time updates and insights.**Feedback:** We value your input! Reach out to us with any feedback or suggestions.This episode is brought to you by CPL Software.**Thank you for tuning in!** Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an update. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your colleagues.

10-30
15:35

Stephen O'Neill, MD, Newton Property Management | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

In this episode of the Blocktalk Podcast, we’re delighted to welcome Stephen O’Neill, a seasoned expert in the property factoring world. Stephen is the founder and Chair of Newton Property Management and the original founder of O’Neill Letting, which he started in 1995 and later sold in 2001. With decades of experience in the property sector, Stephen has witnessed dramatic changes in the industry, from letting and property management to market shifts and regulatory evolution.Join us as we dive into Stephen’s journey, his thoughts on how the industry has transformed, and where it's heading next. Whether you’re a property professional, landlord, or curious about the real estate world, this episode offers valuable insights and expert perspectives.Tune in for a conversation full of history, expertise, and a look toward the future of property management!Timestamp01:35 Stephen's father's background02:50 How has the landscape evolved?07:16 Back from retirement09:25 Embracing change as a self-confessed luddite and elder statesman14:05 What about the future – what major changes do you foresee happening by 2030?20:09 Is there ever a time when property managers are replaced by AI?24:29 Automation and digitisation over the next few years in the industry29:40 How has legislation changed over the years35:12 AI and property factoring36:07 Tell us something about you that people are generally surprised to find out about you?Subscribe to the Blocktalk podcast and follow on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter for updates.

10-17
39:32

Malcolm Perryman, The Property Institute | Blocktalk Podcast w/ Brian Welsh

In this episode of the Blocktalk podcast, we’re joined by Malcolm Perryman, Chief Commercial Officer at The Property Institute to dive into the results of the recent wellbeing survey. With property management being a demanding field, this survey sheds light on the mental health and overall wellbeing of professionals in the industry.Malcolm shares key insights, discussing the challenges property managers face and what the results mean for the future of the sector. Whether you're a property manager, landlord, or industry insider, this episode offers vital takeaways on how to foster a healthier work environment in property management.Timestamp:01:32 Overview of survey results06:35 What stood out from the results of the survey?12:51 Any major changes compared to last year?16:10 Are attitudes to wellbeing shifting?21:40 What training does The Property Institute offer?28:49 Look out for communications to take part in the next survey which comes out in February 2025For more information visithttps://www.tpi.org.uk/industry-knowledge/property-management/tpi-wellbeing-resilience-survey-2024/For training visit:https://www.tpi.org.uk/training-and-qualifications/training-courses/Please subscribe to the podcast and follow Blocktalk UK on LinkedIn, X and Facebook.

10-15
29:23

Neil Watt, Chairman, H&P Management Services | Blocktalk Podcast w/ Brian Welsh

Today on the Blocktalk Podcast, the podcast for the property management industry, we are joined by Neil Watt, Chairman of Hacking and Paterson. Neil joined the company in 1982, was appointed to the Board, four years later in 1986 and subsequently became Managing Director in 2008, going on to be appointed as Chairman in August 2019. Neil is a former Director and President of the PMA, has served as a Director of the British Property Federation, and continues to be actively involved in providing guidance and input to Scottish Government and other regulatory bodies on the requirements for continued and improved maintenance of the country’s housing stock.In this episode, Neil regales tales from his 40+ years in the industry, looking back at the history and how the industry has changed...and how it hasn't. This is a fantastic conversation with an industry veteran who has seen it all—from the early days of property factoring, where relationships were built on a handshake, to the complex, highly regulated environment we navigate today. Neil shares insightful anecdotes, lessons learned, and the challenges he faced along the way.We also dive into the future of property management, discussing the evolving role of technology, client expectations, and the importance of maintaining a personal touch in an increasingly digital world. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Neil's stories offer valuable wisdom and perspective on where the industry has been and where it’s headed next.Whether you're a seasoned professional or just curious about the industry, you won’t want to miss this conversation on how property factoring is set to evolve in the coming years.On the show:02:00 PMAS Lifetime Achievement Award - leadership/management style evolved over the years and why.08:40 Over forty years in the industry - history about the industry, and how it has evolved over the years.18:55 Scottish Parliament Tenement Maintenance Working Group - insights you can share about how that is moving forward.29:35 Biggest risks facing the industry.32:20 Biggest opportunities for the industry.40:21 Where do you see the industry in 2030?46:00 Tell us something about you that people would be surprised to learn?Find out more about Neil here:https://www.hackingandpaterson.co.uk/about-us/our-team/neil-watt/The Blocktalk Podcast is hosted by Brian Welsh and produced by the CPL Software team. CPL Software are software partners to property managers and produce the Blocktalk podcast to support our partners and the industry.

09-19
51:57

Blocktalk Bitesize | The Clientcast August 2024 | w/ Brian Welsh

Blocktalk Bitesize Clientcast - a special shorter episode for time limited property managers and industry leaders: Quarterly HQ Update: What's New at CPL Software (producers of the Blocktalk podcast).Episode Summary:Welcome to the shorter version of the latest Blocktalk podcast, where we bring you a quick update on everything happening at CPL Software this quarter. In this shorter episode, we’ll give you a snapshot of our recent developments, with insights directly from the team leaders. Hear from Fran, Operations Director update on Support, Tom, Business Development Manager update on Sales & Marketing, and Will, CTO, update on Technical Developments. It's a little piece from the full episode, where they share the latest updates and what you can expect in the coming months.**In This Episode:**Fran on Support for our existing property management clientsTom with a Sales & Marketing update Will with a snippet from his Development update**Stay Connected:**Don’t miss out on the latest news and updates from the Blocktalk Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to our podcast, and follow us on LinkedIn, X and Facebook to stay informed.

09-04
08:18

Clientcast August 2024| Blocktalk Podcast w/ Brian Welsh

Blocktalk Podcast: Clientcast - August 2024Episode Title: Special Update: What’s New at CPL Software (producers of the show)Episode Summary:In this special episode, we’ve got our regular quarterly update for our valued clients on the latest developments and news from the CPL Software team who are producers of the Blocktalk podcast.Our team has been working hard behind the scenes, and we want to share some important updates and insights into the direction our business is heading. Whether you’re a long-time client or new to our services, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what’s been happening and what you can expect from us in the coming months.With: Brian Welsh, CEO; Will McIlmoyle, CTO; Fran Megson, Operations Director and Tom Beswick, Business Development Manager.Timestamp01:37 Team update with Brian Welsh, CEO04:18 Development update with Will McIlmoyle, CTO07:18 Operations update with Fran Megson, Operations Director12:33 Sales update with Tom Beswick, BDM16:05 Future developments with Will Mcilmoyle, CTOSPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT AT THE END!**Stay Connected:** Follow us on social media for real-time updates and insights.**Feedback:** We value your input! Reach out to us with any feedback or suggestions.This episode is brought to you by CPL Software.**Thank you for tuning in!** Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an update. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your colleagues.

08-28
20:33

Blocktalk Bitesize | David Doran, MD Hacking & Paterson Management Services | w/ Brian Welsh

Blocktalk - Bitesize Bonus EpisodeEpisode Title: The Future of Property FactoringHost: Brian WelshGuest: David Doran, MD, Hacking & Paterson Property ManagementEpisode Description:In this shorter Bitesize episode of Blocktalk, host Brian Welsh sits down with industry expert and MD of Hacking & Paterson Management Services David Doran to explore the future of property factoring. They discuss the evolving landscape of property management, emerging trends, and what stakeholders can expect in the years to come. From technological innovations to shifts in legislation and ownership, the latest Blocktalk conversation is packed with insights that both property managers and property owners will find invaluable.Tune in to Blocktalk for a quick dive into what’s next for the property factoring industry!On the full episode:01:00 Major changes you foresee happening by 2030 in property factoring15:48 Automation and digitisation in the property factoring industry23:10 Sustainability and the environment in the property factoring industry28:00 Will the BTL v ownership landscape affect what happens in property factoring35:26 How do you think the potential shift towards the need for more human connection will affect property factoring? 41:13 Is there ever a time when property managers are replaced by AI? Don't forget to subscribe to Blocktalk for more insightful discussions and bonus episodes like this one!

08-21
08:09

with David Doran, MD Hacking & Paterson | Blocktalk Podcast w/ Brian Welsh | S2 E19

Today we are joined by David Doran, MD of Hacking and Paterson who is no stranger to the Blocktalk podcast. As well as being the Managing Director at Hacking and Paterson Management Service, David is Vice President of the PMAS and also a Fellow of the Institute of Residential Property Management. In this episode, Brian and David dive into the future of property factoring and explore how technology, sustainability, and changing regulations are reshaping the industry. Or are they?From innovations in property management to the evolving needs of homeowners and developers, David shares his invaluable insights on what’s next for property factoring.Whether you're a seasoned professional or just curious about the industry, you won’t want to miss this conversation on how property factoring is set to evolve in the coming years.On the show:01:00 Major changes you foresee happening by 2030 in property factoring15:48 Automation and digitisation in the property factoring industry23:10 Sustainability and the environment in the property factoring industry28:00 Will the BTL v ownership landscape affect what happens in property factoring35:26 How do you think the potential shift towards the need for more human connection will affect property factoring? 41:13 Is there ever a time when property managers are replaced by AI?  Find out more about David here: https://www.hackingandpaterson.co.uk/about-us/our-team/david-ac-doran/The Blocktalk Podcast is hosted by Brian Welsh and produced by the CPL Software team. CPL Software are software partners to property managers and produce the Blocktalk podcast to support our partners and the industry.

08-15
49:53

The Property Institute Seminar Review with Thomas Beswick | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

Brian is joined by Thomas Beswick, BDM at CPL Software, to chat about his experience at The Property Institute Annual Seminar in May.1:33 The focus of the event 2:58 Key points that were raised and any more insight from you5:30 Statistics from the seminar8:10 With your CPL focus, what can the system offer to help solve any pressing issues11:00 Quote of the day - what Tom noted as being the 'QOTD'We hope you enjoy the episode!Like and Subscribe to the Blocktalk Podcast channel and follow us on social.The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the team at CPL Software.

07-18
13:27

Blocktalk Bitesize | Cladding Remediation Update w/ Chris Ashurst | w/ Brian Welsh

On Blocktalk Bitesize this week we have Chris Ashurst updating us on the latest developments with the cladding remedition in Scotland.

05-29
08:28

AI and Property Management w/ Opeyemi Funsho | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

Welcome to a new episode of the Blocktalk podcast with your host Brian Welsh. On this fortnight's podcast Brian is in conversation with CPL Software developer, Opeyemi Funsho. Opey is a keen AI enthusiast. Opey was the secretary of the AI and Robotics Society at university, where he held multiple sessions that explored the operation and application of various AI models. During his placement year, he independently investigated how AI can be incorporated to improve system forecasting.   On the show 04:30 Regulators and AI05:20 Benefits of AI 06:00 Health and food07:30 Property management industry and AI08:00 Future of AI09:00 Participation of AI09:25 Preparing for AI11:00 Training12:00 CPL and AI13:40 Estimating and forecsting with AI15:00 Negativity around AI We hope you enjoy the episode!   The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the CPL Software team. 

05-08
21:49

Blocktalk Bitesize | Property Management Law w/Cassandra Zanelli | w/ Brian Welsh

Welcome to Blocktalk Bitesize week - the short 8-minute segment from this fortnight's podcast which is with guest Cassandra Zanelli, Solicitor and CEO, Property Management Legal Services.   Listen to this shorter episode or catch the full episode which went live last week. Find out more about Cassandra and her legal services here: https://pmls.co.uk/ We hope you enjoy!  

05-01
08:07

What is Happening at CPL Software | Blocktalk Bitesize | w/ Brian Welsh

It's Blocktalk Bitesize week and this week it's a short 8-minute section from the Clientcast, our regular quarterly feature for CPL Software clients. In this short segment, Will, CPL Software's CTO, gives an update about software updates, and we hear a little bit from Tom, BDM, about the sudden interest being shown by Housing Associations looking for a factoring solution. Listen to Bitesize on the same Blocktalk channels - Spotify, Apple, Amazon, Audible, Google and YouTube. Remember to like and subscribe and follow Blocktalk on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

04-17
08:00

What is Happening at CPL Software | Blocktalk Podcast | w/ Brian Welsh

Welcome to a new episode of the Blocktalk podcast with your host Brian Welsh. On this fortnight's podcast, it's our regular feature as producers of the Blocktalk Podcast, it's the CPL Software Clientcast - a quarterly, 'what's happening at CPL Software' for clients to find out what's new and what's coming. Brian is joined by Will McIlmoyle, CTO and Tom Beswick, BDM. On the show 00:55 Office to Office Challenge Update - the team's first fundraising efforts for our Charity of the Year, Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis02:00 Team news with Brian05:05 Software update with WillRelease 2.61new DD systemfull support for GoCardlessBlink integrationImproved deployment processCONNECT release AND lots of coming up news to find out about!10:55 Brian comments - GoCardless12:20 Business development update with Tom17:10 Brian comments 17:30 Behind the scenes teaser!20:05 Closing comments We hope you enjoy the episode!   The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the CPL Software team. 

04-10
20:59

Bitesize Siobhan Reilly, Redpath Bruce

It's Blocktalk Bitesize week, an 8-minute segment from this fortnight's podcast with Siobhan Reilly, Associate Director at Redpath Bruce. Siobhan won the Above and Beyond Award at this year's PMAS Excellence Awards and it was great to have her on to chat about her time in the industry. Listen to Bitesize and the full episode on Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon, Audible, and on the Blocktalk Podcast YouTube.    

04-03
08:04

Siobhan Reilly, Redpath Bruce PMAS Above and Beyond Winner

Welcome to a new episode of the Blocktalk Podcast with host, Brian Welsh. On this fortnight's Blocktalk podcast, Brian is in conversation with Siobhan Reilly, Associate Director at Redpath Bruce. Siobhan was the deserving winner of the 2024 PMAS Above and Beyond Industry Award at this year's Excellence Awards held on March 8th at the Radisson Hotel in Glasgow. Siobhan has worked her way up in the industry from property manager to where she is today.  We had a great chat with her and loved hearing 'the hole story'!  We hope you enjoy this episode!   The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the CPL Software team for people who work in the property management industry.  

03-27
26:41

Blocktalk Bitesize with Pat Phelan, CCO GoCardles, MD UKI

It's Blocktalk Bitesize week, an 8-minute segment from this fortnight's podcast with Pat Phelan, CCO GoCardless, and MD UKI. Pat talks about the world of instant payments, why you need it for your property management company, and what the future is.  This is a great episode, that we're sure you'll get a lot from! Listen to Bitesize and the full episode on Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon, Audible, and on the Blocktalk Podcast YouTube.    

03-20
08:13

Pat Phelan GoCardless

Welcome to a new episode of the Blocktalk Podcast with host, Brian Welsh. On this fortnight's Blocktalk podcast, Brian is in conversation with Pat Phelan, Chief Customer Officer at GoCardless and MD of UK and Ireland. Pat has an impressive CV in the SAAS arena, ranging from co-founding Intellesys in 2000, where he served as Head of Customer Success until March 2008. During his extensive career he has contributed his expertise whilst working at Bazaarvoice, TALEO, and as a consultant at Robert Walters. Before his current position, Pat was Chief Customer Officer at Brandwatch for three years.  Pat talks to Brian about opening banking, instant payments, and what it all means for the property management industry. We hope you enjoy this episode!   The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the CPL Software team for people who work in the property management industry.  

03-13
47:16

Neale Bisset, President PMAS

Welcome to a new episode of the Blocktalk Podcast with host, Brian Welsh. This week we're delighted to be joined in our studio by Neale Bisset, President of the PMAS.  With the PMAS Excellence Awards on Friday 8th March, we chat to Neale about the event, what we have to look forward to on the night, and a bit about what's coming in 2024! We hope you enjoy this episode!   The Blocktalk Podcast is produced by the CPL Software team for people who work in the property management industry.

02-29
09:59

Recommend Channels