Welcome to the Ignite Podcast, specifically designed to help estate agents ignite the growth of their agency, hosted by Sam Ashdown and Phil Jones. We'll share original content on all things marketing and agency related - from growth and lead generation, to creating and developing your personal brand and building a dream team. You'll hear from the biggest and best marketers, experts and agency coaches from around the world in exclusive interviews. And discover our top level tips, tricks and ...
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Sam Ashdown Podcasts

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Do you need an Ops Manager? Sam and Phil discuss
13:37
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13:37Sam and Phil break down when and why agency owners should consider hiring an Operations Manager, challenging misconceptions around the cost and value, and examining what an Ops Manager actually does day-to-day. The right operational structure can support you to focus on growth and strategy and this podcast addresses common mistakes and practical so…
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THAT Panorama documentary - Sam and Phil discuss
34:19
34:19
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34:19Sam and Phil break down the recent Panorama documentary "Undercover Estate Agents," offering an insider's take on how estate agency practices were presented on TV. What was really uncovered? And what was missed? If you haven’t seen it yet, you can watch it here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002fygs/panorama-undercover-estate-agent How are…
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End of Q2 2025 - Where Are We? And What's in Store for Q3?
37:12
37:12
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37:12Sam and Phil reflect on Ashdown Jones’ Q2 2025 and look ahead as Q3 approaches. Find out why regular reflection shapes performance, and why you should prioritise planning, even during quieter market periods. Hear about the current market challenges, staffing adjustments, revenue targets, and the value of direct mail. Explore property sales trends, …
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How to Create a Stylish Property Description Using AI
28:20
28:20
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28:20Are you using AI to help write property descriptions? Find out why you should be! Replace traditional property description clichés with a story-led approach to help your agency stand out from the crowd. Using the right prompts can give you more time to focus on growth while maintaining the quality vendors expect, especially in the high-value home m…
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How to Build an Overseas Team and Get 3 Employees for the Price of 1 – with Georges Verdis
52:01
52:01
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52:01In this episode, we discuss building an overseas team for your estate agency. Georges Verdis joins Sam to talk about digital assistants, especially those based in the Philippines, and how they can support agency operations while managing costs. Sam and Georges share their journey of hiring virtual (or digital) team members, with a transparent look …
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The 5 Languages of Appreciation and How They Help You Build a Better Culture
29:25
29:25
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29:25Let’s examine the five languages of appreciation in the workplace and their direct impact on team culture and retention. Sam discusses how to recognise, motivate and support your staff using strategies backed by research and shaped by real-life experience. With reference to her upcoming book, Sam talks about understanding what makes each team membe…
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Here is part 2 of the AI for Agents webinar that Sam and Phil wanted to share with you! If you missed part 1, go and check out the previous episode. This podcast will help you understand the difference between SEO and GEO (That’s Generative Engine Optimisation), find out why clear, extractable website text is now essential, how listings on third-pa…
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Recently Sam and Phil hosted a webinar called ‘AI for Agents - 5 Easy Ways to Use AI in Your Estate Agency TODAY’ and they wanted to share it with you on the podcast, so we’ve split it into two parts and you can listen to part 1 this week and part 2 next week. You’ll hear practical examples of how to use AI for property descriptions, summarising co…
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Sam and Phil tackle the ongoing challenge of hiring and recruitment, from feeling stretched too thin and hitting financial ceilings, to making key decisions about when and who to recruit to enable growth. Many common business obstacles come back to recruitment but planning your agency’s structure ahead of time can also help break plateaus and prepa…
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Pack your bags because we’re going on holiday with Phil! How do holidays shape your business growth, motivation, and agency operations? Regular breaks can impact your mindset, family dynamics, and agency performance. Phil shares his holiday schedule and discusses the practicalities of balancing agency demands with time away. Sam and Phil reflect on…
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Sam is joined by Clare Hughes whose career journey went from London’s high street agencies to founding her own business with eXp. She shares how the landscape in East London has changed since the 2012 Olympic regeneration. Clare is the co-founder (with Liana Loporto-Browne) of Women in Estate Agency, which aims to create a safe space for sharing ch…
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How to Manage (Not Micro-Manage) and Empower Your Team
35:21
35:21
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35:21How can you manage your team effectively without slipping into micromanagement? This week Sam and Phil explore the difference between leadership and management and discuss how the right structure for your estate agency can support growth and empower your team, rather than causing confusion or frustration. Are the best salespeople always the best ma…
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How to Go Viral with Liam Hussell - Marathon and Internet Sensation!
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26:29Have you seen the video? It even made the national news… “London Marathon runner gets tube back home and something special happens” (The Mirror) Watch it on TIKTOK or INSTAGRAM AJ’s Marketing and Content Creator (and Sam’s future son-in-law) Liam Hussell went viral as he was making his way home after running the London Marathon. Liam joins Sam to e…
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5 Key Levers You Can Use to Accelerate Your Agency's Success
43:01
43:01
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43:01This week, Sam and Phil take you through a hands-on agency audit, to highlight how regular check-ins on your website, social channels, lead generation, numbers, and processes can unlock consistent progress. There are practical steps on refining your website and Google presence, building an effective content strategy for sellers, and tracking financ…
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AI for Your Agency - How to Get Started with This Exciting Tool!
33:54
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33:54In this episode, Sam and Phil share recent experiments with ChatGPT and Perplexity, testing how these tools answer the question, “Who is the best estate agent in Windermere?” and what that means for your agency’s online profile. How is AI already impacting consumer journeys and estate agency marketing, both behind the scenes and in public perceptio…
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In this episode, we address one of the least exciting yet critically essential topics in the property sector - Anti-Money Laundering (AML). Phil highlights the steps estate agency owners should take to ensure compliance and avoid hefty fines, which can range from £1,500 to as much as £52,000! Find out the common pitfalls and the solutions that can …
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Some Real Home Truths - Phil’s joined by wife Molly!
43:46
43:46
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43:46Find out what it’s really like to live with Phil Jones, as he is joined by his wife Molly (who also happens to be Sam’s daughter) on the Ignite Podcast this week! No topic is off limits as Molly talks about how Phil running an estate agency impacts their family life! How has Phil balanced his professional ambitions with family responsibilities, and…
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How do you cultivate loyalty from your clients past and present? By creating a sense of belonging and maintaining consistent touchpoints to enhance your relationships. Sam and Phil discuss the familiar touch in the client journey which has helped Ashdown Jones maintain a loyal client base over the years. Are you making clients feel like they are pa…
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6 Conversion Tactics You May Not Be Using
18:24
18:24
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18:24In this episode, discover the power of strategic questioning and how it can shape your client interactions, driving results for your estate agency. Learn why selling results, rather than processes, creates a bigger impact and resonates with clients. Sam and Phil discuss strategies, including the art of building rapport, not relying on cookie-cutter…
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Follow the Plan, Not Your Mood: Lessons from Sean Conway
29:43
29:43
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29:43SEAN CONWAY is almost superhuman! He has cycled around the world, run the length of Britain and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro… Dressed as a penguin! But what does this have to do with selling houses? Sam and Phil want to explore the mindset that can push limits, not just in adventure but in running a successful estate agency. Is setting ambitious goals…
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Phil: "How it felt to sell my house" so far...
29:32
29:32
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29:32What happens when the estate agent becomes the vendor? Selling your house can be a roller coaster ride from listing to viewings to getting an offer and this time Phil is on the other side of the fence… Discover how his experience of selling his own house gave Phil an insight into how Ashdown Jones could enhance their own client interactions. Sam an…
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Here’s your chance to listen to an exclusive AJ Mastermind Webinar from Sam, which we’ve turned into a podcast just for you! Are you worried that there may be a toxic culture within your estate agency? Sam will tell you how to turn it around in just three months, using three core values: Vision, Mission, and Purpose. Sam and Emma (AJ Mastermind’s C…
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The Top 200 Tips from 200 Episodes of the Ignite Podcast!
42:32
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42:32Happy 200th episode of the Ignite podcast! Sam and Phil celebrate by reflecting on some of the top 200 tips from 200 episodes! Click HERE to read all 200 of those top tips and for your chance to grab one of 200 signed copies of Sam's book 'The Selective Estate Agent' Learn how diverse recruitment can complete your agency’s jigsaw and why long-form …
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Transformative marketing secrets from ex-CEO of Knight Frank and F&C: Simon Leadbetter
42:32
42:32
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42:32Sam is joined by marketing expert Simon Leadbetter who shares strategies for significant growth for your estate agency. Simon talks about his vast experience and reveals that despite the influx of new technology, core marketing principles remain unchanged. We explore the importance of truly understanding your customer and creating a product so comp…
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Direct Mail and Content on a Shoestring for 2025
29:55
29:55
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29:55Sam and Phil hosted a webinar on Zoom in which they discussed how to be a pro-marketer by using direct Mail and online content, without breaking the bank. They have turned that webinar into a podcast episode so that you can listen to their latest advice on how to Ignite your marketing strategies! There are cost-effective strategies for you to imple…
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5 Thrifty Tactics to Boost Brand Awareness
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30:06In this episode, we share creative strategies to build brand awareness without breaking the bank. Dive into actionable tips for fresh, impactful marketing tactics that can enhance the visibility of your agency. Sam and Phil explore innovative methods including newsjacking, content repurposing, and social media campaigns. Understand why developing c…
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Marketing on a Shoestring for 2025 - 5 Business Builders for Low (or No) Cash!
36:06
36:06
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36:06In this episode, we explore strategies for independent estate agency owners to build their business on a tight budget. Uncover five tactics that promise high returns with minimal investment. Sam and Phil discuss the psychological and emotional aspects of door knocking, breaking down the barriers that often keep agents from trying this effective met…
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"How to use Data to Generate Leads for your Agency" - with Kieran Slinger from PropALT
40:30
40:30
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40:30Explore the critical role that data plays in generating leads for your estate agency. Join Phil, as he discusses with Kieran Slinger from PropALT how leveraging data and automation can transform your lead generation efforts and boost your agency's performance. Discover how PropALT uses advanced algorithms and AI to predict when properties are likel…
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3 Ways to Make Your Business New Year's Resolutions Stick
29:07
29:07
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29:07In this episode, we explore three ways to ensure your business New Year's resolutions stick, whether they’re for yourself or your businesses. Discover how taking part in a daily fitness challenge can build lasting habits, and find out when a resolution isn’t really a resolution. Sam and Phil explore the benefits of setting visible, trackable goals …
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In this episode, we delve into Sam and Phil's top 5 for 2025, covering crucial trends and predictions for independent estate agencies in the coming years. Discover insights on navigating an oversaturated market and the challenges of the personal agent model. Sam and James explore the dual aspects of lead generation, the evolving use of social media…
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The People "Analyser" and how you can use it to Build Your Dream Team
16:49
16:49
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16:49Merry Christmas from The Ignite Podcast… In this mini episode, Sam and Hannah take a look at the People Analyser tool and its powerful application for building your dream team. Discover how this exercise can help to assess team members based on motivation, skills, and knowledge, ensuring the right people are in the right seats. We also discuss the …
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Steal our Simple Annual Planning Process!
46:05
46:05
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46:05Joining Sam this week is AJ’s Operation Manager Edward who shares the key to setting focused, annual priorities that will drive your agency forward. Whether it's brand enhancement or team performance, align these annual goals with actionable quarterly priorities and break your projects into manageable milestones, ensuring clear ownership and define…
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The Highs, the Lows and the Lessons - 2024 in Review with Sam and Phil
19:22
19:22
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19:22In this episode, we take you through an exhilarating year-end review of 2024, sharing the highs, lows and lessons from the industry. Learn how focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) can drive your agency’s success, and discover the importance of maintaining team morale even in challenging times. Sam and Phil discuss disciplined goal setting …
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Chris Ducker: How to be a Long-Haul Leader
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42:46
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42:46Sam is joined by entrepreneur and business mentor Chris Ducker to discuss transforming your business through the power of relationships, effective delegation, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Discover why nurturing long-term professional relationships is vital for sustained success and how staying within your "zone of genius" can turboc…
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December is a critical month for estate agency owners. Join Sam and Phil as they explore the importance of a well-timed Boxing Day launch, capturing market momentum through collective listings, and the art of engaging your team during the festive season. Learn about structured campaigns like the "12 Days of Christmas," and understand how selecting …
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James Cocker debates social media investment with Sam - Who's right?
39:00
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39:00James Cocker joins Sam for a debate on the use of social media versus traditional platforms like Rightmove to boost property sales and build your brand. Find out why James believes in the power of social media marketing for estate agency owners, while Sam emphasises the proven returns from traditional direct mail and property platforms. Facebook, I…
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The 'Gold' Standard of Agency: How to create standards to make your agency stand out above the competition
39:40
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39:40Sam is joined by AJ Mastermind’s Client Executive, Emma Heath for this episode and they delve into the core principles that make an estate agency truly remarkable. Learn how curiosity and questions can spark deeper connections and understand the delicate balance of building rapport without letting ego steer the conversation. Gain insights on delive…
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Are We Over-Styling Homes? Sam's Eight Golden Rules of Home Styling!
31:16
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31:16Are we over-styling homes in our quest to deliver the perfect look? In this episode of Ignite Your Estate Agency we discuss home styling with a focus on balance, efficiency, and truly showcasing a property’s unique charm. Learn why photographic documentation is critical for maintaining client trust and the importance of aligning with client prefere…
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How to be a Confident Estate Agent Without Being Aggressive
45:52
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45:52Discover the importance of assertiveness training and how it can transform your interactions with clients and colleagues. Unlock the secrets to becoming a confident estate agent without crossing the line into aggression! We give you techniques to maintain composure using body language, and communication styles that project confidence, ensuring you …
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Attraction or Interruption Marketing? Which is best for YOUR agency?
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43:08Learn how to navigate the dynamic landscape of attraction and interruption marketing tailored specifically for your independent estate agency! In this episode, we debate which is the best strategy for estate agency owners? Explore the benefits of the self-employed agent model without sacrificing a large portion of your income. Learn how effective b…
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Trapped and Frustrated? How to Create a Business You'll Love and Loves You Back
28:36
28:36
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28:36Unlock the pathway to building an estate agency that you not only love but also loves you back! Explore the challenges estate agency owners face when growth stagnates and frustration sets in. Discover why automation may not be the silver bullet and why systemisation is the key to freeing up your time and empowering your team. This episode provides …
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This is the ultimate guide to consistent lead generation success tailored specifically for estate agency owners! In this episode, Sam and Phil take you through the document that can transform your estate agency’s approach to lead generation. Struggling with tracking and measuring your lead generation efforts? Sam and Phil have advice on maintaining…
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How Jo Lines Sold Her Agency for Multi Six Figure - What She did Next
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46:52Listen to Jo Lines' remarkable journey from a psychology student to an independent estate agency owner, and uncover how she defied industry norms by focussing on kindness, long-term relationships, and client growth. Discover the impact of transitioning from estate sales to lettings and property management, and how Jo leveraged diverse income stream…
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Direct Mail Tips and Tricks With Sam and Phil
36:12
36:12
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36:12Unlock the secrets to revolutionising your estate agency’s direct mail strategies with insights that guarantee success! In this episode, we talk about the fascinating world of direct mail marketing and reveal how understanding the psychology of your audience can enhance your response rates. Learn about the importance of micro-commitments, and the s…
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Get the insights on whether upfront marketing fees are right for your independent estate agency! In this episode, discuss whether agencies should charge an upfront fee, and what are the potential pitfalls and benefits? Sam is joined by Ashdown Jones’ senior sales manager Hannah Julian to explore the impact of these fees on an agency's cash flow and…
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Three Things You Can Do To Get Your First Superprime Listing
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22:32Unlock the secrets to landing your first Superprime listing with actionable strategies you can implement this week! In this episode, we lay out three concrete steps to move you closer to securing those high-value, Superprime properties. Learn the art of targeted letters, the ins and outs of social stalking (ethically, of course!), and the daring mo…
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What do Power Bespoke, JDG and Roman's have in common? They're all using THIS tool to boost productivity! Mike Nettleton tells all
32:50
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32:50Unlock the potential of your independent estate agency with our latest episode! Sam, and special guest Michael Nettleton from Power Bespoke, JDG, and Roman’s dive into the tools and strategies that can skyrocket your agency's productivity. Discover the power of warm sales leads and tackle the challenge of low-value enquiries head-on as Michael shar…
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Which Is Harder - Running an Ultra or Running a Business? (Part 2)
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28:30
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28:30Explore the compelling parallels between the grit required for running an ultra-marathon and the resilience needed to masterfully manage an independent estate agency. In this riveting episode, our hosts Sam & Jenna dive deep into the intense preparation that both challenging feats demand. Does training for an ultra-marathon, often exceeding 6 hours…
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Which Is Harder - Running an Ultra or Running a Business? (Part 1)
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38:22Explore the intricacies of balancing the mental and physical demands of ultra running with the challenges of running an independent estate agency in this compelling episode of Ignite Your Estate Agency. Sam & Jenna delve into the parallels between distance running and business management. Incorporating personal running experiences, the hosts explor…
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173 Fake It Till You Make It - And I Did!
27:25
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27:25Dive deep into the unapologetically raw and real world of estate agency dynamics in this action-packed episode of Ignite Your Estate Agency. Ready to confront and conquer your fears? Join hosts Sam and Phil as they peel back the layers, exploring intense subjects like criticism, vulnerability, and the undeniable impact of daring to be controversial…
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