The Property Funder Podcast

James Varley spent a decade managing corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Then he quit, bought a couple of holiday lets in Yorkshire, and built one of the fastest-growing media platforms in the short-term rentals space. In this episode, he walks us through how the STR market actually works: the platforms quietly controlling it, the regulations threatening to break it, and the branding playbooks of the operators quietly dominating it. He also talks honestly about what it takes to build a media business from scratch in a niche sector, why AI is about to reshape property management entirely, and what a decade in corporate comms taught him about cutting through the noise. Guest: James Varley, Founder & CEO, Host Planet Guest Socials: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Fintech #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #SalesLeadership #BrokerRelationships #PropertyFunding #LendingTechnology #AvaMoreCapital #CertaintyOfFunding Chapters: 00:00:00 – What Is Host Planet 00:07:10 – From Qatar to Yorkshire: The Origin Story 00:14:00 – Direct Bookings and Platform Dependency 00:20:15 – BTL vs STR: The Real Numbers 00:25:50 – Scaling With Brand: The Beach Retreats Story 00:31:00 – Regulation, Licensing and the Community Tension 00:37:15 – Scotland, Wales and the Licensing Fallout 00:43:15 – AI, Agentic Tech and the Future of Property Management 00:52:15 – Building an Ecosystem: Content, Trust and Community 01:02:00 – What’s Next for Host Planet

Sam Hutchins is a specialist property finance advisor at Blueberry Specialist Lending and the founder of Fitness in Finance, an online coaching platform built specifically for people working in financial services. In this episode, Sam and Michael talk candidly about why the industry’s long-hours culture is quietly burning people out, what drove a 25-year-old broker to launch a fitness coaching business while still working full time, and what a healthier, sharper finance professional actually looks like in practice. From diet, alcohol and sleep to body dysmorphia, wearables and the increasingly divisive topic of weight-loss jabs, this one covers far more ground than your average finance podcast. Honest, practical and genuinely entertaining. Guest: Sam Hutchins, Specialist Property Finance Advisor, Blueberry Specialist Lending Guest Socials: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-hutchins-260917227/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #FitnessInFinance #MentalHealth #HealthAndWellbeing #FinanceLife #WorkplaceWellness #BrokerLife #PropertyFunding #AvamoreCapital #FitnessMotivation #SpecialistLending Chapters: 00:00:00 - Intro and Sam’s Finance Career 00:06:00 - Office Life, Covid and Career Development 00:09:39 - The Birth of Fitness in Finance 00:15:00 - Credibility Without Qualifications 00:20:00 - Training, Nutrition and the Social Media Problem 00:26:00 - Alcohol, Motivation and What Actually Sticks 00:32:39 - Client Coaching and Working With Different Abilities 00:42:49 - Weight Loss Jabs, Steroids and Body Dysmorphia 00:49:27 - Mental Health, Sleep and the Social Side of Fitness 00:56:54 - Time Management, Business Crossover and What’s Next

Adam Butler, Director of Sales and Marketing at Avamore Capital, returns to the podcast to talk about the lender’s remarkable growth story – a 90% increase in volumes in H2 2025, driven by bespoke in-house tech, an expanded and increasingly diverse sales team, and a renewed commercial mindset. Adam unpacks Avamore’s £250 million lending target for the new financial year, explains how their new broker portal and DIP calculator are set to transform broker efficiency, and shares his take on certainty of funding, geographic expansion beyond the South-East, and why saying no the right way is sometimes the most powerful sales tool. Packed with insights on what makes deals progress well, how to compete with ‘hot lenders’, and why trust will always beat price in specialist finance. Guest: Adam Butler, Director of Sales and Marketing, Avamore Capital Guest Socials: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-butler1/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Fintech #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #SalesLeadership #BrokerRelationships #PropertyFunding #LendingTechnology #AvaMoreCapital #CertaintyOfFunding Chapters: 00:00:00 – Intro and Adam’s Career Milestones at Avamore 00:07:40 – Building a Diverse, Knowledgeable Sales Team 00:11:54 – Lending Appetite and Core Products 00:19:07 – Geographic Expansion Beyond the South-East 00:24:26 – Market Dynamics and the Competitor Landscape 00:29:15 – The £250 Million Target 00:33:04 – Tech That Enables, Not Replaces 00:43:39 – What Makes a Deal Progress Well 00:52:52 – Staying Focused Amid Market Noise 01:02:15 – Scaling the Team and Career Advice

In this episode, Michael sits down with Deepak Ohri, Partner at Merali Beedle and one of the more colourful characters in specialist property law. The conversation is wide-ranging, frank, and refreshingly commercial: from why every lawyer ought to run a business before they can truly understand risk, to the creeping post-COVID decline in legal service quality, the case for and against title insurance and indemnity policies, and a candid dissection of fraud in property transactions — including a shared episode that Deepak and Michael were both involved in. They also dig into the state of the market, why now might be a generational buying opportunity for block purchases, the enduring appeal of HMOs, and why some bridge lenders were never really cut out for development in the first place. Deepak opens up about the commercial instincts he developed long before law — from market stalls to helping his wife build a restaurant business — and why that real-world grounding shapes how he handles risk and client relationships today. He and Michael unpick the hidden cost of using a cheap conveyancer, how lenders’ and borrowers’ lawyers can do more to stop transactions grinding to a halt, and the uncomfortable truth that valuations are far more subjective — and far less reliable as security — than many bridging lenders seem to appreciate. They close with Deepak’s advice to his younger self: get out there, meet different people, and think about things in a wider way. Guest: Deepak Ohri, Partner, Merali Beedle Guest Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepak-o-44b2b33a/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #SpecialistLending #PropertyLaw #Conveyancing #FraudPrevention #HMO #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #TitleInsurance #IndemnityPolicy #DevelopmentLending #ValuationRisk #BuyingOpportunity #MarketOutlook #LegalProfession #MeraliBeedle #AvaMoreCapital Chapters: 00:00:00 – Why every lawyer should run a business 00:06:43 – Theoretical lawyers and the cost of opportunistic title disputes 00:13:02 – The restaurant world, food influencers, and running a service business 00:15:41 – Post-COVID legal quality: fees up, service down 00:19:43 – Streamlining transactions and the hidden cost of cheap conveyancers 00:24:44 – Title insurance and indemnity policies: are they fit for purpose? 00:26:39 – Fraud in property transactions and how to mitigate it 00:30:34 – Market themes: equity gaps, refinancing pressure, and a tough environment 00:35:17 – Generational buying opportunity: blocks, discounts, and stamp duty strategy 00:40:52 – HMOs, assisted living, and 2026 market themes 00:46:36 – Development lenders pulling back — and the bridging oversaturation problem 00:51:47 – Valuation risk: why 65% LTGDV dev might be safer than 75% LTV bridging 00:53:43 – Advice to your younger self

Michael Dean sits down with Saam Lowni, founder and director of Maryoaks, to talk about scaling a specialist finance brokerage from a two-person operation to a growing team, the realities of doing 60 deals in 12 months, and why development finance enquiries are finally picking back up. They get into the weeds on AI’s impact on brokers and lenders, whether we’ve hit peak HMO, the case for commercial property investment, and how podcasting has become a genuine business differentiator. Saam also shares a powerful personal perspective on gratitude, identity, and making the most of the opportunities life throws your way. Guest: Saam Lowni – Founder & Director, Maryoaks Guest Socials: www.maryoaks.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/saamlowni/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com CHAPTERS 00:00:00 – Introduction & Catching Up 00:06:04 – Maryoaks: 2025 in Review 00:11:18 – Adding Protection & New Revenue Streams 00:17:22 – Podcasting as a Business Differentiator 00:22:28 – AI, Tech & the Future of Broking 00:30:26 – Human vs AI Underwriting – Who Wins? 00:38:52 – Tech Platforms & Packaging Applications 00:46:22 – Commercial Property & Investment Strategy 00:53:31 – Peak HMO, Planning Reform & Development Trends 01:00:31 – Family, Gratitude & Perspective #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #CommercialProperty #HMO #AI #PropTech #Brokerage #PropertyInvestment #BusinessGrowth #Podcasting #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #CreativeFunding #Planning #NPPF

Episode Summary: Adam Stiles, Director and co-founder of Helix Structured Finance, returns to the podcast for a third time to share his unfiltered take on the state of the market heading into 2026. From the psychology of vetting borrowers and why broker-lender relationships still trump rate sheets, to the tech revolution reshaping the industry and why brokers who don’t adapt risk being left behind — Adam covers it all. He also opens up about mental health pressures in the broker community, his decision to give up alcohol, and why commercial property is the most underserved and exciting corner of the market right now. Plus, he doesn’t hold back when asked what the industry needs to stop ignoring. Guest: Adam Stiles, Director & Co-Founder, Helix Structured Finance Guest Socials: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstilesuk/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #SpecialistLending #BridgingFinance #DevelopmentFinance #Bridging #Development #Business #MentalHealth #TechInFinance #BrokerLife #CommercialProperty #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #Entrepreneurship #HelixStructuredFinance Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 – Market Outlook & Business Update 00:06:46 – Vetting Deals & Reading Red Flags 00:12:30 – Technology & The AI Revolution 00:17:05 – Mental Health & Giving Up Alcohol 00:23:30 – BDM Relationships & The Death of the Pub Meeting 00:29:31 – The Future of Broking 00:35:55 – Relationships Over Rates 00:42:11 – New Market Entrants & Lender Consolidation 00:49:12 – Growing Teams & Young Talent 00:56:10 – Looking Ahead & Industry Home Truths

Mark Posniak, Managing Director of Short-Term Lending at Maslow Capital, takes us on a fascinating tour through the complexities of pan-European bridging finance. With operations spanning eight countries from the UK to the Netherlands, Mark reveals why trying to lend across Europe from a London desk is a recipe for disaster, and how Maslow's on-the-ground expertise in each market gives them a unique edge. From navigating Italy's usury caps to understanding Ireland's lightning-fast residential market, Mark shares hard-won insights about the critical differences between European lending markets that most people miss. Plus, we dive into his personal journey with ADHD, what you can learn about someone's character on the golf course, and why Arsenal might finally have the depth to win the league. Guest: Mark Posniak Guest Socials: https://www.instagram.com/pozzy_187/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markposniak/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Michael Dean sits down with Jacob Bouet Andersen, Managing Director at Avamore Capital, to discuss the lender's remarkable turnaround and ambitious growth plans. Nine months into his role, Jacob shares how Avamore has achieved 90% growth in origination while simultaneously cleaning up the loan book and maintaining zero capital losses. Jacob introduces Avamore's "Four Pillars of Credit" framework - product, developer, delivery, and financials - explaining why backing the right sponsor matters more than ever in today's market. The conversation explores their proactive approach to asset management, described as "looking for smoke rather than fighting fires," and how technology investments are streamlining the underwriting process. The discussion also covers Avamore's recently published Residential Market Outlook, touching on the regional renaissance in UK property development, the growing appetite for HMOs and income-generating assets, and why two-thirds of their exits now come through refinance rather than sales. Jacob outlines the team's target of 250 million in lending for the upcoming financial year and the operational changes being implemented to achieve it. Whether you're a broker, developer, or industry observer, this episode offers valuable insights into how a specialist lender is positioning itself for growth while maintaining credit discipline in an uncertain market. Guest: Jacob Bouet Andersen, Managing Director, Avamore Capital Guest Socials: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobbouet/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #specialistfinance #PropertyFinance #DevelopmentFinance #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #CreditManagement #AssetManagement #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #LoanBook #Underwriting #HMO #ResidentialDevelopment #RegionalProperty #UKProperty #Refinance #LendingGrowth #PropertyFunder

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Kountourides, co-founder of Valos, to challenge the assumption that all proptech is racing to replace human expertise. Alex shares how his experience as a qualified surveyor revealed a massive gap in the market—valuers were drowning in administrative tasks rather than doing what they're trained for: determining value. Valos flips the AVM model on its head by automating the busywork, not the valuer. We dive into the nuanced future of human valuations across different asset classes, dissect what's broken in the proptech industry (spoiler: oversaturation and chasing VC money), and hear Alex's candid take on why bootstrapping has given them control of their destiny. If you're curious about building sustainable proptech or rethinking automation in real estate, this one's for you. Guest: Alex Kountourides Guest Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexkountourides/ Instagram: @akountourides Sponsored by:Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Shazad Ahmed, aka 'Where's Shaz' and Director of Elan Property Finance, takes us on a brutally honest journey through modern brokerage from his South Wales base. We explore the reality check newer investors need (spoiler: that £10k savings pot won't go as far as the property guru promised), the dark side of private finance and Ponzi-adjacent schemes promising 30% returns, and why deal sourcing isn't the dirty word mortgage lenders think it is. Shaz reveals how solicitors are holding deals hostage with capacity issues and suspiciously convenient delays, shares his vibe coding experiments with AI tools that summarise 50-page credit files in plain English, and explains why LinkedIn post hijacking is the ultimate cardinal sin. We dissect HMO valuation concerns that keep credit teams up at night, debate whether families will have anywhere left to live, explore the receivership red flags killing future refinances, and discuss why communication with lenders beats going ghost every single time. Plus, Shaz's advice to his 21-year-old self about peaking earlier might just be the reality check we all needed. Guest: Shazad Ahmed, Director of Elan Property Finance Guest Socials: https://www.instagram.com/wheresshaz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wheresshaz https://www.youtube.com/@Wheresshaz https://www.linkedin.com/in/shazadahmed/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

It's episode 100! To mark this milestone, Michael sits down with Jordan McBriar and D’mitri Zaprzala, directors of the newly launched Broker Club. The pair reveal their ambitious plan to create a nationwide network of specialist brokers covering all 48 counties across England and Wales—and they're already 42 counties in with 68 applications. This isn't just another networking group; it's a genuine collaboration model designed for established one to three-person brokerages who want to be part of something bigger. They discuss the overwhelming response from the market, unexpected benefits that emerged, lender reactions, and what makes a good broker-lender relationship. Plus, there's some friendly football banter between an Arsenal and a Man City fan. If you're curious about the future of specialist brokering and what happens when you bring the best regional brokers under one roof, this is essential listening. Guests: Jordan McBriar and D’mitri Zaprzala Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-mcbriar-19341477/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-mitri-zaprzala-70416819/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

George Ormerod, Relationship Manager at Avamore Capital, takes us through his unconventional journey from COVID-era estate agent at Foxtons to rising star in development finance. We dive into the reality behind the Foxtons reputation, explore the transferable skills that set George apart (spoiler: it's not about dropping donuts), and discuss why picking up the phone still matters in a WhatsApp world. George shares hard-won lessons about building trust without over-promising, breaking into competitive broker relationships, and why being memorable – even if you're Marmite – beats being forgettable every time. Plus, we examine the current property market, debate flats versus houses, discuss tech adoption battles (George is now a believer), and reveal why patience and persistence trump overnight success. If you're curious about what separates average BDMs from exceptional ones, this conversation delivers the blueprint. Guest: George Ormerod, Relationship Manager at Avamore Capital Guest Socials: go@avamorecapital.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ormerod-126aa61aa/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Ash Ajaz, aka The People's Broker and founder of Focus Finance Solutions, shares his remarkable journey from being pushed into entrepreneurship in 2020 to building a thriving brokerage with over 500 educational YouTube videos. We explore why he believes the toughest years for brokers created the best opportunities, how he uses education as his secret weapon for lead generation (with clients calling from Dubai after discovering his content), and why checking your credit score regularly isn't just smart – it's essential. Ash breaks down why the SME finance market is criminally underserved, reveals the pitfalls that kill developer profits (hello, building control nightmares), and explains his 'jab, jab, jab, right hook' approach to content creation. Plus, we discuss why AI is a tool not a threat, the importance of building a personal brand that means something, and why teaching his eight-year-old Excel might be the smartest investment he's making. If you're wondering how to stand out in a crowded market through authentic education and relentless consistency, this conversation is your blueprint. Guest: Ash Ajaz, Founder & CEO of Focus Finance Solutions (The People's Broker) Guest Socials: @thepeoplesbroker https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesbroker/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashajaz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.peoples.broker https://www.youtube.com/@focusfinancechannel Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Beth Fisher and Ellen Townsend from Medianett drop a bombshell announcement over Diddy vodka (yes, really): they're halving their client base to focus on premium partnerships. We explore the bold strategy behind cutting from 90 marketing clients to a select group, why being boutique beats being glorified admin, and how editorial independence remains sacred even as they become extensions of clients' teams. Beth and Ellen reveal their massive website rebrand launching April 2026 with AI-powered trend reporting, rotating banner ads that fight 'furniture syndrome,' and a complete shift towards AIO optimization over traditional SEO. We discuss the commercial mortgage surge dominating 2026 conversations, debate whether M&A consolidation will finally happen (Beth's been calling it for four years), and explore why the market might go full circle back to privately-funded niche lenders. Plus, insights on personal versus corporate branding challenges, and why trust and relationships remain the currency that actually matters in specialist finance. Guests: Beth Fisher & Ellen Townsend, Medianett Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-fisher-10243790/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-townsend-006110153/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this special retrospective episode, we're looking back at some of the standout moments from recent conversations. We revisit Markus from NRG Recruitment discussing what sets great recruiters apart and his brilliantly unconventional LinkedIn strategy involving gym sessions and terrible puns. We relive the unforgettable reveal of Matt's 'Yassinisms' – those wonderfully obscure sayings that baffled the entire Avamore office back in 2019. Plus, we hear again from the Avamore leadership team – Ed, Harry, and Adam – as they reflect on growth, the dangers of founder syndrome, why embracing expertise beats trying to know it all, and how partnerships have been the secret sauce to their success. It's a greatest hits compilation of wisdom, laughs, and genuine insights from the world of specialist finance. Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this Q&A session, Property Funder host Michael Dean sits in the hot seat as Marketing Manager Davina Patel takes the reins to explore the remarkable journey of Avamore Capital. From its founding vision as a "three-year project" to becoming a billion-pound lender, Michael shares candid insights about building trust in volatile markets, revolutionizing property lending through technology, and why putting people first has been the secret to surviving Brexit, COVID, and everything in between. Discover how this specialist lender is using cutting-edge tech to transform the industry while never losing sight of the human element that drives real success. Guest: Davina Patel, Marketing Manager, Avamore Capital Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davina-patel-53b986253/ https://www.instagram.com/iamdavinaofficial/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #PropTech #FinTech #Leadership #Innovation #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship #TechTransformation #LendingInnovation #SMEDevelopment #FinancialServices #StartupGrowth #CompanyCulture #TrustInBusiness #DigitalTransformation #PropertyFunder

In this lively catch-up episode, Michael Dean sits down with returning guests James McGregor (P10 Financial Group) and Jack Bristow (J3 Advisory) to talk all things property finance, insurance, and the realities of today’s development market. They dig into how businesses are adapting to tighter margins, shifting regulations, and changing talent dynamics—from managing cost bases to coping with the post-COVID work culture. Expect candid insights, laughs, and a few strong opinions on mergers, working from home, and why resilience (and communication) still make the best business strategy. Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcgregor-p10 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmbristow/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this lively episode, Michael reunites with previous guests Andrew Robinson and Matthew Yasin for an update on their businesses, the evolving property finance market, and plenty of laughs along the way. From "Yasin-isms" to discussions on AI, market consolidation, and building strong advisory brands, the conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in specialist finance. Guests: Andrew Robinson, CEO of Arc & Co. https://www.arcandco.com/ Matthew Yassin, MD of Aquilae Capital https://aquilae-capital.com/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Host Michael Dean sits down with two leading figures in specialist finance recruitment: Stuart Hicks, founder and managing director of City and Capital, and Dan from Infintelligence. The conversation explores the evolution of the specialist lending market over the past decade, the challenges of founder syndrome in growing businesses, and how the talent pool has matured. They discuss the importance of embracing expertise, the impact of technology and AI on the industry, the potential for market consolidation, and share some dramatic placement stories from their recruitment careers. The episode offers valuable insights for both employers and candidates navigating the specialist finance sector. Guests: Dan Greenhalgh - Managing Director, Fintelligent https://www.linkedin.com/in/realestatefinanceheadhunter/ Stuart Hicks - Founder and Managing Director, City and Capital Recruitment https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hicks-fs1/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this episode, host Michael Dean sits down with three key leaders from Avamore Capital: Ed Blundell (Head of Underwriting), Harry Yates (Head of Transactions and Structuring), and Adam Butler (Director of Sales and Marketing). They discuss their roles, the impact of technology on operations, leadership styles, personal branding, work-life balance, and advice for their younger selves. The conversation highlights the company's growth, efficiency improvements, and focus on structured solutions in property finance. Guests: Ed Blundell, Harry Yates, Adam Butler. Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation