Made in Dubai with Spencer Lodge

 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

This weeks guest, Karl Mohan, is a seasoned fintech and crypto executive, currently serving as General Manager for APAC and MEA and Global Head of Banking Partnerships at Crypto.com. With over two decades of experience across traditional finance and emerging technologies, Karl is known for bridging the gap between banking and blockchain innovation. Passionate about financial inclusion and responsible crypto adoption, he advocates for regulation that supports innovation, security, and trust, helping Crypto.com make cryptocurrency accessible to everyone.   In this episode, we explore how technology and regulation are shaping the future of finance, with a focus on the rapid evolution of crypto and digital payments. We discuss why Dubai has emerged as a leading hub for the industry, comparing its regulatory landscape with more democratic societies. We also look at the growing integration of crypto with traditional banking and consider the global shift toward cashless societies.   06:19 – New technologies changing the way we pay and invest 11:25 – The evolution of technology and the role of regulation 14:40 – Why Dubai has become one of the leading crypto financial centres 22:18 – The risks of crypto and how regulation and security are improving trust and confidence 34:57 – The Crypto.com x Trump Media deal and its impact on direct and indirect crypto investment 46:34 – The future of cash, societal behaviours, and the role of crypto 52:26 – Pros and cons of a cashless society and the rise of alternative payment systems     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 Karl Mohan on Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlmohan

This week's guest is Mo Vlogs, social media personality who has made a name for himself as one of Dubai's most prominent YouTubers and vloggers. Renowned for his daily vlogs, Mo offers viewers a window into the opulent lifestyle the city is known for, from luxury cars and high-end real estate to exclusive events and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Dubai's fast-paced culture. In this episode, Mo Vlogs sits down to share his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Dubai's most recognizedYouTubers. He reflects on the importance of enjoying what you do, the impact of social media and mobile technology, and how AI is shaping creativity. Mo opens up about his biggest financial mistakes, the mindset needed to excel, and the excuses people make that hold them back. He also talks about the power of self-reflection, staying consistent in your work, handling critics, and what the future holds for Mo Vlogs and his content.   02:10 – How Mo started out 15:11 – The role of AI in video 22:45 – The start of creating something rewarding 45:50 – Doing the work: Applying yourself and being consistent 59:38 – Dealing with the haters: It only hurts when you start to believe 01:04:00 – The future for Mo Vlogs   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 Mo Vlogs on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/movlogs/ https://www.tiktok.com/@mo_vlogs?lang=en

This week's guest is Firas Al Msaddi, the founder and owner of fäm Properties, Dubai's most technologically advanced real estate company and a multidimensional force shaping the future of the city's property market.   A Syrian-born entrepreneur and author, Firas has redefined what it means to lead in real estate, combining deep market expertise with data, proptech, and integrity-driven leadership. From trading shoes as a child in Homs to building one of the region's most trusted real estate platforms, his journey reflects relentless grit and visionary execution.   In this episode, Firas Al Msaddi joins Spencer to share the mindset and principles behind building one of Dubai's most successful real estate empires. He opens up about the values of hard work, trust and creating lasting client relationships, explaining why money naturally follows value.    Firas breaks down the true skill behind effective selling, reflects on his best and worst investments, and discusses why Dubai continues to attract ambitious people from around the world. He also offers a compelling vision forthe city's future, one defined by innovation, transparency, and unstoppable ambition   01:07 – Backstory: Firas Al Msaddi 11:31 – Buying into his philosophy 19:36 – Outperforming the competition by delivering more value to clients 30:37 – The younger generation and shortcuts: Mastering your trade takes time 35:54 – The sales process: Two schools of thought - commission-driven vs product-focused 48:30 –The future of Dubai (long-term vision)     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 Firas Al Msaddi on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/firas_al_msaddi/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/firas-al-msaddi/?originalSubdomain=ae

This weeks guest is Farhad Azizi, CEO of Azizi Developments, the real estate arm of the Azizi Group in Dubai, where he also serves as Vice Chairman. Educated in the U.S. with a bachelor's from the University of Tulsa and an MBA from Suffolk University, he later established ventures in Germany before returning to Dubai to lead Azizi Developments, founded in 2007. Under his leadership, the company has delivered thousands of homes across prime locations like MBR City, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Healthcare City, becoming one of the city's leading developers. Named among Forbes Middle East's "Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders" (2024) and credited with driving the firm to win "Middle East Property Developer of the Year" (2023), Azizi is recognised for a leadership style that emphasizes customer focus, transparency, and innovation. In this episode, Farhad Azizi, billionaire CEO of Azizi Developments, shares his remarkable journey from his upbringing in Afghanistan and Dubai to studying in the United States and building one of the UAE's most successful real estate empires. The conversation explores both the challenges and opportunities of working within a family business, his experience taking over and driving the company's growth, and the personal changes he made following the passing of his sister. Azizi reflects on life's hardest lessons, the balance between wealth and fulfilment and his views on leadership, legacy and the role of innovation, AI and technology in shaping the future of real estate. He also opens up about his greatest accomplishments, biggest mistakes and whether his success could have been achieved outside Dubai. 2:10 – Farhad's backstory: from his birthplace Afghanistan to attending university in Tulsa, USA 12:50 – Working in the family business 32:58 – What money can't buy: life's hardest lesson 56:02 – From humble beginnings 58:42 – Burj Azizi: building the second tallest building in the world 1:13:13 – Quick fire questions 1:18:05 – Innovations in real estate, technology and AI, adapting to younger buying habits 1:28:52 – Trends damaging Dubai's reputation   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Farhad Azizi on Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadazizi/?originalSubdomain=ae https://www.instagram.com/farhadaziziofficial/

This week's guest is Omar "OT" Tom, a double kidney transplant recipient and inspirational athlete who won gold in the 200m sprint for Team UAE at the World Transplant Games   Despite being born with serious kidney conditions, he has used sport as a way to celebrate life, defy expectations and show that organ recipients can not only survive but thrive.   In this powerful episode, Omar shares his journey from the first signs of kidney problems to life after two transplants. He reflects on the symptoms that changed his childhood, the realities of surgery and recovery and what it meant to accept that life might never be "normal."   Omar opens up about his close bond with his father, the painful experience of kidney rejection and the emotional weight of feeling like a failure. Yet his story takes a transformative turn as he discovers strength through fitness, ultimately competing and winning gold at the World Transplant Games. With honesty and hope, Omar delivers a message that organ recipients can thrive, inspiring listeners with his resilience, gratitude and determination to celebrate life after transplantation.     4:02 – Omar's early symptoms and diagnosis 15:00 – The journey to finding a donor 24:30 – The donor and their relationship 29:05 – Facing kidney rejection 48:00 – Staying healthy after transplantation 1:12:24 – Lessons from being a gold medalist     Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Omar Tom on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/otofficial/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/otofficial/

This week's guest is Elie Khouri, a Lebanese-French businessman, entrepreneur, art patron and media leader. Best known as the founder and chairman of Vivium, a Dubai-based single-family office. A driving force in the communications industry, he has served as chairman of Omnicom Media Group for the Middle East and North Africa since 2019, following a successful 13-year tenure as CEO. Beyond his corporate achievements, Khouri is widely recognized for his support of contemporary art and entrepreneurship and has gained further visibility as an investor on Shark Tank, where he backs innovative ideas and emerging businesses. Today, his focus is on growing his family office, generating long-term wealth and driving a transition toward alternative investing. In this episode, we explore Elie's journey as an entrepreneur and investor, with his experience on Shark Tank Dubai and his approach to evaluating businesses. The discussion covers the skill of sales, the role of social media, and lessons from his time at Omnicom, as well as the challenges of leading across cultures, finding talent and the values shaped by his upbringing. Elie also shares perspectives on inspiration, mental health and AI as a growth enabler, before reflecting on building a family office, investing in start-ups and the qualities that define true entrepreneurship. Please welcome to the show, Elie Khouri.   1:26 – Elie on Shark Tank Dubai and evaluating the quality of businesses 9:15 – The role of social media in sales 12:00 – Elie on Omnicom 16:29 – The challenge of running a successful business across different cultures 23:24 – Elie's inspiration 28:40 – The rise of mental health issues 32:45 – The role of AI as an enabler 38:51 Investing in start-ups (some hugely successful, others failures) 53:45 – What success means to Elie 1:01:01 – Failure as a driver of growth   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 Elie Khouri on Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliekhouri/

This week's guest is a leader in Dubai's property market and an entrepreneur who turned ambition into one of the region's greatest real estate success stories.   Seventeen years ago Carl Allsopp, CEO of Allsopp & Allsopp, arrived in Dubai with little more than a dream and an unshakable drive to succeed. What started as a bold move to launch a real estate brokerage grew into the largest in the region - an achievement built on relentless hard work, smart strategy and a deep understanding of what it takes to win in one of the world's most competitive markets.   But Carl's story isn't just about numbers. It's about truth. In an era of online hype and quick wins, he shares the realities behind the headlines on why so many newcomers fail to make it in Dubai, the patience required to build a lasting career and the mindset young people need to truly succeed.   In this episode, Carl opens up about the lessons learned from nearly two decades of growth, the values that built his empire and the opportunities still waiting for those willing to put in the work.   Please welcome to the show, Carl Allsopp.     4:00 – Carl's journey - His background and path into real estate. 09:32 – People & culture - Finding the right talent and overcoming growth challenges. 29:33 – AI in real estate: Speed, efficiency, and lead generation. Why people still buy from people. 37:41 – Smart strategies: Carl's personal approach to buying property. 46:26 – Investment pitfalls: Tips for avoiding poor decisions in Dubai's market. 52:49 – UK property market: Insights and comparisons to Dubai. 54:07 – Retirement in the UAE: Opportunities and considerations. 1:00:12 – First-time buyers: Guidance on purchasing your first property in the UAE.     Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Carl Allsopp on Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-allsopp-allsoppandallsopp/ https://www.instagram.com/carlallsopp/?hl=en

From driving forklifts in his family's warehouse to steering a billion-pound global business and captivating audiences as a Dragon on Dragons' Den, this week's guest, Tej Lalvani, is the meaning of entrepreneurial grit and innovation. As CEO of Vitabiotics, the UK's largest vitamin company, Tej has expanded the brand to over 100 countries, turning products like Wellwoman, Perfectil, and Pregnacare into household names. However it hasn't been a straightforward journey and he even shares how, as a child, Tej moved around so much with schools that he couldn't do basic maths - proof that early setbacks don't define long-term success. In this episode, Tej shares his journey from moving from India to the UK and adapting to a new culture, to working alongside his father and learning the lessons that helped build Vitabiotics into a global powerhouse. He reveals the true meaning of sales, what it really takes to be an entrepreneur and his path to becoming a Dragon - including what happens after the cameras stop rolling. Tej also explores the skills every founder needs, the three things a Dragon must hear before investing and why so many people are leaving the UK for Dubai now that he spends a lot of his time here. Whether you're building your first business or pitching for investment, this conversation is packed with insights, candid stories and practical wisdom from one of the UK's most successful entrepreneurs.   3:30 Moving from India to UK 15:00 Being an entrepreneur and what sales is really about 20:48 Becoming a Dragon 31:50 What happens once you invest on Dragons Den? 40:55 Knowing your skills and what value you can bring 47:30 Vitabiotics products and the challenges with longevity medicine and treatments 54:00 Dubai vs UK - Why are people leaving the UK for Dubai 1:07:00 What 3 things does a dragon need to hear to invest 1:11:40 First thing you need to do to be an entrepreneur   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Tej Lalvani on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/tejlalvani https://x.com/TejLalvani https://www.linkedin.com/in/tej-lalvani-b7199b7/  

This weeks guest is Rachel Conlan, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange and blockchain ecosystem. With over two decades of experience in marketing, brand strategy and partnerships, she leads a global team driving Binance's mission to make crypto more accessible to millions worldwide. In this episode, Rachel shares her personal journey into the crypto space, how her passion for disruptive markets and the desire to solve problems shaped her career – Problems like financial exclusion for 1.7 billion unbanked people. We explore Binance's values, why consistency matters and how she's helped build a global community around finance. This conversation goes far beyond Binance. Rachel breaks down practical marketing insights that entrepreneurs and business owners of all sizes can apply to grow their companies and connect with audiences more effectively. From the power of storytelling, advocacy and affiliates to the frustrations of failed campaigns including the infamous "Binance Perfume" - she doesn't shy away from real-world lessons.     3:35 – Simplifying and translating technology: focusing on relevance for everyday users 7:55 – Choosing the right exchange service 13:39 – Crafting the strategy for growth 23:23 – Educating through the Binance Academy 36:33 – Understanding the balance between marketing vs. sales 59:00 – The power of organic growth in digital strategy 1:06:26 – Lessons from a failed marketing campaign: "Binance Perfume"     Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Rachel Conlan on Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelconlan/ https://www.instagram.com/rachelconlan https://x.com/RachelConlan  

This week's guest is Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, a lifestyle medic, long-distance triathlete and UK Athletics Leader in Running Fitness whose philosophy centres on movement, community and nutrition.  He is also the Royal College of General Practitioners' Lead for Lifestyle and Physical Activity, a clinical advisor to Swim England a holistic approach to physical, mental and social wellbeing.  Drawing on his own journey from a sedentary lifestyle to world class triathlete, he champions physical activity and nutrition as powerful tools for preventing and managing health conditions, sharing this message widely through public speaking, professional training and regular UK National TV appearances on Good Morning Britain & Steph's Packed Lunch  In this episode, the conversation unpacks the complex and sometimes contradictory world of health, nutrition and weight management. It explores the rise in obesity across ethnicities even as physical activity increases and examines how the built environment shapes our wellbeing.  The episode also delves into the realities of weight-loss drugs, from side effects to research suggesting links to accelerated muscle ageing and reframes weight loss as a tool rather than a complete solution, highlighting the role of personalised guidance in achieving sustainable wellbeing.   04:50 – Obesity continues to rise despite increased physical activity (Dr. Haz explains) 10:46 – How conflicting advice leads to "paralysis by analysis" 19:50 – Understanding the "why" - reasons and desired outcomes 33:00 – Weight-loss drugs and their side effects – Is it cheating? 55:20 – Your relationship with food and the Six Pillars 1:10:03 – Why weight management and health coaching services matter beyond traditional healthcare     Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Hussain Al-Zubaidi on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/irondoctorhaz https://www.linkedin.com/in/hussain-al-zubaidi-402b141a7/

This week's guest is Ashley Cain, a former professional footballer turned TV personality, endurance athlete and advocate for children with cancer. The death of his daughter Azaylia from leukemia in 2021 inspired The Azaylia Foundation, through which he's completed extreme endurance feats to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer. More recently he has appeared and co-produced the BBC's Into The Danger Zone which has received incredible feedback. He has welcomed two sons, Aliyas and Atlas, while continuing charity work and public engagement to further enhance the legacy of his late daughter, Azaylia In this episode, we follow Ashley Cain's deeply personal journey from his daughter Azaylia's leukemia diagnosis, remission and tragic relapse, to the profound impact she had on his life. Ashley reflects on being blessed to be her father, her incredible strength and his hope that she is looking down on him, proud of his efforts. He shares how raising awareness of childhood cancer, now the leading child killer in the UK has become his mission, leading to the creation of The Azaylia Foundation and extreme physical challenges in her honour. We explore how battling through these feats keeps him close to her, his experience of becoming a father again and navigating the mix of guilt, joy and love.   02:53 – Background on Ashley Cain and Azaylia's leukemia journey 21:45 – The power of having a purpose 23:45 – Life after Azaylia's passing 26:38 – Childhood cancer: the no.1 killer of children in the UK 29:42 – Ashley's challenges in tribute to Azaylia 47:25 – Becoming a father again twice in 1 year 01:11:58 – Dealing with public criticism whilst focusing on his purpose   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Ashley Cain on Social Media https://www.tiktok.com/@mrashleycain https://www.instagram.com/mrashleycain/  

This week's guest is Dr Mohammed Enayat, also known as The Longevity Doctor, a UK-based GP and the founder of HUM2N Longevity Clinic. With expertise in Functional, Regenerative and Aesthetic Medicine, he's on a mission to redefine what it means to live well and live long. Blending cutting-edge science with a personalised, human-centred approach, Dr. E helps high performers optimise their health, energy and lifespan from the inside out. In this episode, we explore how perceptions of health and longevity are shifting from a luxury to a vital necessity. Dr Enayat offers insights into the modern patient journey, exposing blind spots in traditional care and highlighting the value of personalised, cost-effective interventions. We cover the ADHD epidemic in the UK as well as the wide-reaching impact of stress, hormonal imbalances, poor sleep and nutrition, along with the growing disconnect between modern lifestyles and our brain's ability to keep up. From executive dysfunction to outdated healthcare systems, this conversation shows how personalised medicine and environmental changes can empower individuals to take charge of their wellbeing   2:30 – Dr. E's Focus and Specialization An introduction to Dr. E's primary areas of expertise and the specific conditions he treats. 7:05 – The Journey: Symptoms, Blind Spots, and the Consultation Process A look into the patient journey from common symptoms, overlooked issues, and how Dr. E structures consultations and personalised care programs. 13:10 – Medical Insurance vs. Hospitals  Exploring the challenges of accessing care through traditional systems and the struggle to use services effectively within insurance frameworks. 21:33 – Making It Simple: Preventing Overwhelm and Encouraging First Steps How to simplify healthcare decisions and reduce barriers that prevent people from seeking initial help. 29:05 – Technology and Executive Function Disorders Tools and innovations used in treatment, including workflow processing systems and transcranial stimulation. 34:10 – Dr. E's Vision for the Next Decade in Medicine Dr. E's hopes for influencing and shaping broader medical practices and approaches over the next decade. 40:48 – Case Study: Validating the Methodology A real-world example demonstrating the effectiveness of this medical approach in practice.   Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers   Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Mohammed Enayat on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/bydr.e/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/drenayat/

This week's guest is Ana Boulter, an advocate for children and their education who uses her everyday life, often quite literally from the kitchen sink, to challenge the status quo. With a sharp eye on UK politics and a fierce commitment to children's rights, she speaks up for all families, especially those navigating neurodiversity, mental health struggles, and the complexities of the education system. Whether she's questioning baffling government decisions, sharing honest parenting moments, or amplifying autistic and neurodivergent voices, Ana blends lived experience with fearless commentary In this episode, we explore Ana's personal journey from CBBC presenter to outspoken campaigner, dive into the current challenges within the UK education system and unpack the political and emotional realities facing families today. We focus on issues such as state vs private education, the impact of policy decisions like VAT on school fees, and the relevance of the national curriculum in a changing world. Highlighting the importance of giving children a voice, we discuss how individuals can drive change from the ground up and why every child deserves an education system that truly meets their needs.   9:27 – Bully or bullied? "I wanted to be the fixer". 12:30 – Relationships and trauma—Ana as a deep processor 17:12 – The education system and Ana's core beliefs 29:30 – Vocational vs academic: What's more valuable today? 34:25 – Education and AI 44:42 – State education and learning disabilities 59:30 – Schools, infrastructure, and contributing to society 1:09:20 – How can we make a change? 1:20:31 – The right to choose as a citizen   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Ana Boulter on Social Media https://www.youtube.com/@anaboulterTV https://x.com/anaboultertv https://www.tiktok.com/anaboultertv  

This week's guest is Ryan Hopkins, a best-selling author, workplace wellbeing expert and global keynote speaker. His book, 52 Weeks of Wellbeing, has become an international success translated into Korean, Turkish, German, Dutch, and Arabic. Ryan's mission is to revolutionise workplace wellbeing through a no-nonsense, practical approach, positively impacting over 1.25 million people across the world. Ryan's career spans leadership roles at Deloitte, Bupa, and now as Chief Impact Officer at JAAQ – recently awarded UK Startup of the Year 2024 and Wellbeing Platform of the Year 2025. His public speaking portfolio includes TEDx talks, keynote speeches to over 110,000 people, and collaborations with major brands like JP Morgan, SAP, Coca Cola, Amazon, NHS, and more. Open about his personal struggles with depression, bulimia, suicidal ideation, and late- diagnosed autism, Ryan offers a refreshingly honest take on wellbeing. His story, from writing his bestselling book in a Wetherspoons pub to setting off on a Middle East tour, embodies resilience, humour and grit.   Please welcome to the show, best-selling author & workplace wellbeing expert – Ryan Hopkins.   7:21 – How to treat wellbeing as Data 10:52 – Difference between wellness and wellbeing 18:45 – He who has a why can deal with any how 21:00 – Deal of Dual Accountability 31:40 – Issues with remote working and finding the balance 35:05 – Microsoft study and how we are distracted every 2 minutes 40:30 – Mental Health taking over Cancer for Medical Insurance claims 54:50 – What can we start to think about implementing as Leaders     Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    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 Ryan Hopkins on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/theryanhopkins1?igsh=a3dvMXZyNXBycnlu https://www.linkedin.com/in/theryanhopkins/