Beyond Four Walls - With Jodie Fraser

Jodie Fraser

Beyond Four Walls delves into the dynamic world of block management in the UK, navigating the complexities of the sector, unravelling key topics, and shedding light on vital issues affecting communities and property managers. There will be conversations with experts, industry leaders, and passionate individuals talking about everything from insurance to inclusivity.  

  1. Oneeka Clark | Centrick | Defining success through motherhood and raising property management standards

    DEC 15

    Oneeka Clark | Centrick | Defining success through motherhood and raising property management standards

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Oneeka Clark for a really open, down-to-earth conversation about her journey into property management and how her view of success has changed over time. Like so many people in the sector, Oneeka didn’t set out with a grand plan to work in property — it’s something she found her way into, learned on the job, and grew into. We talk honestly about what that early stage feels like, the pressure to “get it right”, and the quiet confidence that comes with experience. Oneeka also shares her thoughts on what success actually means to her now. Not job titles or external validation, but balance, growth, and feeling comfortable in your own decisions. It’s a refreshing reminder that success doesn’t have to look the same for everyone — and that it’s allowed to change as life does. This episode is for anyone working in property who’s still finding their feet, questioning their path, or realising that their definition of success might be different from the one they were originally chasing. We cover: Oneeka’s route into property managementLearning as you go (and why that’s OK)Confidence, self-belief and finding your voiceRedefining success on your own terms Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    29 min
  2. Elliott Adair | Politics & Block Management

    DEC 8

    Elliott Adair | Politics & Block Management

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie sits down with Elliott Adair — property entrepreneur, business leader, and hands-on operator in the leasehold and asset management space. Elliott has worn multiple hats across his career: founder, director, problem-solver, and trusted partner to those responsible for protecting their buildings and communities. Together, they dive into what it really takes to run a property management business — the pressures, the people, and the passion that keeps you going. Elliott shares lessons from the realities of scaling a business, navigating compliance and financial risk, working with complex stakeholder groups, and keeping communication human in an industry where tensions can run high. Whether you’re a managing agent, an RMC director, a leaseholder, or simply someone fascinated by leadership and growth, this conversation will give you ideas, reassurance, and a few sparks of inspiration. In This Episode Elliott’s journey into property and why he chose block & estate managementThe toughest misconceptions about managing agents and industry pressuresBalancing business ownership with operational deliveryModern building safety expectations and what compliance really looks like on the groundThe role of tech and data in delivering better resident experiencesManaging difficult conversations with confidence and calmLeadership lessons — culture, resilience, and learning from mistakesWhat the next 5 years could hold for the leasehold sectorElliott’s personal motivations and what keeps him groundedWhy You Should Listen Because property management is far more than service charges and inspections — it’s about protecting homes, safeguarding people, and supporting thriving communities. Elliott brings honesty, insight, and a fresh entrepreneurial perspective to an industry that’s changing fast. If you’re trying to make an impact without burning out, this one’s for you. Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    38 min
  3. Duncan Foster | B-Hive Block Management Partners | Building Better Partnerships

    DEC 1

    Duncan Foster | B-Hive Block Management Partners | Building Better Partnerships

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie sits down with Duncan Foster — a familiar name in the block and estate management world, and someone with more than thirty years of lived experience in the sector. Duncan’s journey started long before titles and job roles. He built his own successful block management business, sold it to HML in 2014, and today he’s Head of Key Accounts at B-hive Block Management Partners, part of the Vegner Group. What makes Duncan stand out isn’t just the length of his career — it’s the depth of understanding he has around people, relationships, and what really makes this industry tick. In this conversation, we explore: How Duncan first found himself in block managementWhat he learned from running (and later selling) his own businessThe partner model at B-hive and why it works for some businesses but not othersThe human side of leasehold — the part no one prepares you forThe biggest shifts he’s seen in the industry over the last three decadesHow we can better support the well-being of property managersWhat excites him about the future of block and estate managementThe advice he’d give to new agents, business owners, and his younger selfIt’s a down-to-earth, honest chat about growth, resilience, dealing with challenging situations, and staying grounded in a sector that’s constantly evolving. Whether you’re a block manager, a business owner, or simply someone who wants to understand the heart behind the work we do, this episode offers plenty of insight — and a good dose of reassurance that none of us are navigating this on our own. Listen in and enjoy my conversation with Duncan Foster. Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    43 min
  4. Jenny O'Doherty | When The Lights Went Out | Surviving Surgical Menopause and Beyond

    NOV 24

    Jenny O'Doherty | When The Lights Went Out | Surviving Surgical Menopause and Beyond

    Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts. Please listen with care. Episode Overview In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie Fraser speaks with Jenny O’Doherty, founder of Menopause Life by Jen and former property management professional. Jenny shares her experience of entering surgical menopause overnight — with no information, no preparation, and no emotional or medical support. What followed was a frightening and isolating period where she felt mentally detached from herself, describing it as “the lights being switched off inside me.” For six to seven months, Jenny struggled with her mental health in ways she had never anticipated. But this is also a story of survival, rebuilding, and purpose. Jenny opens up about how she went from navigating the darkest chapter of her life to becoming an advocate and trainer, helping individuals and workplaces understand menopause and the importance of proper support. She reflects on her years working in property management, and how those experiences shaped the way she communicates, connects, and now champions change — especially in professional environments where menopause is still rarely discussed. Together, we explore themes of identity, mental health, the gaps in healthcare, workplace culture, and the power of speaking up when silence has done so much harm. In This Episode, We Discuss: Jenny’s sudden transition into surgical menopause — and the shock that followedWhat it feels like when “the lights switch off” mentallyThe emotional and psychological impact of receiving no guidance or resourcesWhy the silence around menopause can be dangerousThe moment she decided to share her story publiclyThe creation of Menopause Life by JenHow workplaces can better support people experiencing menopauseWhat Jenny wants others to know — whether they’re going through menopause themselves or supporting someone who isThe importance of compassion, conversation, and proactive educationAbout Jenny O’Doherty Jenny is the founder of Menopause Life by Jen, where she delivers workplace menopause awareness training and advocates for better support systems around menopause. Before starting this work, Jenny Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    47 min
  5. Chelsea Austin | Earl Kendrick | Marketing with Meaning

    NOV 17

    Chelsea Austin | Earl Kendrick | Marketing with Meaning

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Chelsea Austin, Marketing Coordinator and Executive Assistant at Earl Kendrick Group — a name many in the block and building management world will recognise. Chelsea’s story is one of steady growth, creativity, and compassion. From a background in administration and finance to now shaping how a respected firm communicates its brand and values, Chelsea brings a rare blend of professionalism and empathy to her work. We talk about what it means to market with meaning — how to connect people to property in a way that feels human, not corporate. Chelsea shares insights into her dual role supporting leadership and driving forward the company’s marketing strategy, and we discuss how strong communication can change the way people feel about the industry. Along the way, we explore her thoughts on recognition, confidence, and how to find purpose even in the quieter, behind-the-scenes roles. 💬 What We Talk About Chelsea’s career journey and how she found her place in propertyThe evolution of marketing in a traditionally technical industryWhy storytelling matters in brand and business communicationBalancing creativity with structure in a dual roleThe importance of empathy, collaboration, and being valued at workTips for anyone wanting to grow a meaningful career in marketing or propertyHow companies can showcase the people behind their brandThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    32 min
  6. Bonus Episode | Women in Residential Property: Real Talk on the Future of the home buying process

    NOV 13

    Bonus Episode | Women in Residential Property: Real Talk on the Future of the home buying process

    In this Beyond Four Walls bonus episode, I join a fantastic panel of experts at the Women in Residential Property event to discuss the realities shaping today’s property industry. From the government’s consultation on the home buying process to the evolving world of block management, we explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities that define how we all work — and how we can work better together. 💬 In this episode, we discuss: The impact of proposed government reforms on the home moving processWhy selling leasehold isn’t as straightforward as selling a freehold homeKey trends in block and estate management — from building safety to sustainabilityMarket activity and regional shifts in demandThe greatest challenges facing property professionals right nowThe opportunities we see for collaboration, technology, and leadership across the sectorOur “ask” of government, industry partners, and each otherThis was an open, honest conversation about what’s working, what’s not, and where we can all drive change — together. 🎧 Listen now to gain insight from across the residential property world — whether you’re a managing agent, conveyancer, surveyor, or simply passionate about improving how our industry works. Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    59 min
  7. Nisha Thomas | MVN Block Management | Boutique Agency, Big Approach - A Conversation with MVN’s Co-Founder

    NOV 10

    Nisha Thomas | MVN Block Management | Boutique Agency, Big Approach - A Conversation with MVN’s Co-Founder

    In this episode I’m joined by Nisha Thomas, one of the founders of MVN Block Management — a company born from lived experience, real frustration, and a moment where everything felt like it was falling apart. Nisha opens up about what it was like to hit rock bottom, reach out for support, and rebuild — not just a career, but confidence, clarity and purpose. We talk about: how MVN Block Management started from their own block being mis-managedthe reality of building a business while still learning, still figuring it out, and still early in the journeywhy understanding your directors as humans matters more than “selling services”the Curry Club — her new initiative for RTM/RMC directors to learn their responsibilities in a relaxed spaceProptech: using smart systems to make a smaller agent more efficient, responsive and transparentthe power of doing things differently — and doing it your wayThis conversation is real, relatable, and refreshingly honest. No filters. No bravado. Just the truth of starting again and reshaping your future. Connect with MVN Block Management Website: https://mvnblock.co.uk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mvn-block-management/ Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    42 min
  8. Elizabeth Higgs | Dwellant | From Property Manager to PropTech Changemaker

    NOV 3

    Elizabeth Higgs | Dwellant | From Property Manager to PropTech Changemaker

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, host Jodie Fraser is joined by Elizabeth Higgs, Property Manager of the Year at Doyenne 2023, Vice Chair of the TPI Junior Committee, and Doyenne Ambassador. With six years of hands-on experience in residential property management, Lizzie brings a refreshing, people-first approach to an industry often defined by process and regulation. Now working at Dwellant, she combines her practical knowledge with technology to help reshape the future of block and estate management—focusing on what really matters: how people live and feel in their homes. Together, we explore her career journey, the importance of cross-sector collaboration, why property managers need to think beyond compliance, and how championing women in property is key to lasting change. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: Lizzie’s journey into residential property managementWhat “home” really means in the context of leasehold livingThe role of technology in improving resident experiencesWhy empathy and communication are essential skills for property managersHer work with Doyenne and the TPI Junior CommitteeEncouraging women to lead, support and thrive in the sectorThe importance of professional development and mentorshipHer hopes for the future of the industryAbout Lizzie:  With a deep commitment to improving how the property industry serves communities, Lizzie Higgs is a forward-thinking property professional blending real-world experience with strategic innovation. As a recognised leader and ambassador in the leasehold sector, she is passionate about making residential living more inclusive, collaborative, and human-centred. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-higgs-airpm?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast. I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful. Please follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/ https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr ...

    46 min

About

Beyond Four Walls delves into the dynamic world of block management in the UK, navigating the complexities of the sector, unravelling key topics, and shedding light on vital issues affecting communities and property managers. There will be conversations with experts, industry leaders, and passionate individuals talking about everything from insurance to inclusivity.