Beyond Four Walls - With Jodie Fraser

Jodie Fraser
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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. Andrew Banister | Earl Kendrick | Surveyors, Block Managers and Where Things Go Wrong

    4D AGO

    Andrew Banister | Earl Kendrick | Surveyors, Block Managers and Where Things Go Wrong

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Andrew Banister, Regional Director North at Earl Kendrick. Andrew is a Chartered Building Surveyor (MRICS) with an Associate membership of the Institute of Fire Engineers (AIFireE), and he brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what it really takes to look after residential buildings properly. We talk about the reality behind major works, why block managers so often carry the blame for issues outside their control, and how surveyors and managing agents can work better together — especially when leaseholders are frustrated, budgets are tight, and compliance is non-negotiable. Andrew also shares his experience working on complex and historic buildings, how fire safety responsibilities have evolved in recent years, and what he believes still isn’t well understood across the leasehold sector. This is a practical, grounded conversation for anyone dealing with residential blocks — from managing agents and RMC directors to surveyors and consultants. In this episode, we cover: How Andrew’s career in building surveying developed and what led him to set up Earl Kendrick’s northern officeThe most common issues surveyors see when they first step into a residential blockWhy major works go wrong — and how better planning can prevent conflictWhat managing agents get blamed for unfairlyThe realities of reserve funds and long-term maintenance planningFire safety responsibilities and common misconceptionsWorking with historic and architecturally significant buildingsDifferences between northern and southern residential blocksAdvice for new property managers navigating technical and compliance pressuresWhat needs to change in the leasehold sector to make building management better for everyoneWhy this episode matters: Looking after buildings isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about communication, foresight, trust, and understanding how decisions made today affect residents for years to come. This episode pulls back the curtain on what’s happening behind inspections, reports and major works programmes — and why collaboration between professionals is more important than ever. 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform 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

  2. FEB 3

    THROWBACK TUESDAY | Anji McGrandles | Mind Hacks for Everyday Wellbeing

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie Fraser is joined by mental wellbeing specialist Anji McGrandles, founder of The Mind Tribe, for an honest and practical conversation about what mental wellbeing really looks like in everyday life. Drawing on her experience working with global clients, Anji cuts through the noise around mental health and shares simple, realistic tools that actually fit into busy lives. From understanding burnout and improving sleep, to small mindset shifts and accessible mindfulness practices, this episode is full of insights you can take away and use straight away. Together, Jodie and Anji explore why mental wellbeing isn’t a “nice to have”, the challenges people face when trying to prioritise it, and how workplaces can do better when it comes to supporting their people. In this episode, we cover: Anji’s journey into mental wellbeing and the story behind The Mind TribeCommon myths and misunderstandings around mental healthPractical tools and simple techniques to support your mental wellbeingWhat mindfulness actually is (and what it isn’t)Recognising the signs of burnout and how to respond earlyThe link between sleep and mental healthCreating healthier workplace culturesThe importance of community, connection and self-careTrends Anji is seeing in the wellbeing space right nowResources mentioned: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mindtribe?trk=profile-positionhttps://houseofcoco.net/ Connect with Anji McGrandles: https://www.instagram.com/themindtribe?igsh=aGVrMGZha2h3cTdyA thoughtful, grounded episode for anyone feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or simply looking for better ways to look after their mental wellbeing—inside and outside of work. 💛 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 ...

    48 min
  3. Dan Knowles | Compulsory Purchase, Ethics & Advocacy

    JAN 26

    Dan Knowles | Compulsory Purchase, Ethics & Advocacy

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, host Jodie Fraser sits down with Dan Knowles, Director at Websters Surveyors and one of the UK’s leading experts in Compulsory Purchase. With a career dedicated to representing homeowners affected by regeneration, Dan brings a wealth of knowledge, insight, and empathy to one of the most emotionally charged areas of the property industry. Dan shares how he built his career in this niche sector, what regeneration should really look like when done ethically, and how policy, advocacy, and human connection intersect in his work. From co-writing the RICS Consumer Guide to presenting to the Mayor of London’s office, Dan has been instrumental in influencing change at both local and national levels. But this episode isn’t just about policy and process—it’s about people. Dan talks about the importance of working with communities, how to support residents through upheaval, and why leadership in property must be rooted in integrity. We also explore his life outside work—fatherhood, photography, West End theatre, and what it’s really like being a long-suffering Wolves fan. Key Topics: What Compulsory Purchase is and how it affects homeownersWhy regeneration must happen with residents, not to themDan’s role at Websters Surveyors and his approach to ethical practiceBehind the scenes of influencing government guidance and RICS policyBalancing leadership, advocacy, and personal lifeThe power of giving back and building trust in the property sector 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 ...

    39 min
  4. TUESDAY THROWBACK | Joe Goss | Understanding Property Management

    JAN 20

    TUESDAY THROWBACK | Joe Goss | Understanding Property Management

    Having studied Housing & Development at UWE, Bristol, Joe has worked within the property sector service industry for 20 years. In 1999 he fell into recruitment serving the wider social housing and professional surveying sectors for eight years before working for Bristol City Council on office fit out projects. Working as a block manager since 2010 and a full member of the IRPM, He has arranged thousands of reactive maintenance tasks of most kinds and delivered many 'Section 20' major works projects for all sorts of buildings. With well partnered software, he is very aware that maintenance processes can be improved while delivering an enhanced customer experience. Joe discusses how Fixflo can help your business, but he also very honestly talks about burnout, and understanding the 24/7 nature of block management. joe.goss@fixflo.com  https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-goss-mirpm-10583331 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 ...

    27 min
  5. Mark North | Brethertons | Leasehold Starts at the Viewing - Why Early Conversations Matter

    JAN 12

    Mark North | Brethertons | Leasehold Starts at the Viewing - Why Early Conversations Matter

    In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie is joined by Mark North, Business Development Partner at Brethertons LLP. Mark has spent over 30 years working across the property sector, starting out in estate agency and lettings before moving into the legal world. That experience gives him a rare, joined-up perspective — one that sees property transactions not just as sales, but as long-term commitments that shape people’s lives. Together, Jodie and Mark explore why leasehold is still so poorly understood, and why many homeowners only learn what it really means once problems arise. They discuss the role estate agents can play at the point of viewing and sale, how earlier and more honest conversations could reduce conflict later on, and where responsibility truly sits within the industry. The conversation also looks at Mark’s work at Brethertons, the types of issues he regularly sees, and how his background outside the legal profession helps him bridge the gap between lawyers, managing agents, and homeowners. This episode is a thoughtful, practical discussion for anyone working in property — and for anyone buying a leasehold home who wants to better understand what they’re stepping into. In this episode, we cover: Mark’s journey from estate agency to lawWhy leasehold confusion starts far earlier than the legal stageWhat buyers should know before making an offerHow estate agents and lawyers could work more collaborativelyCommon misconceptions that lead to disputes later onWhat meaningful transparency in property could actually look likeYou can contact Mark here - marknorth@brethertons.co.uk 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 ...

    45 min
  6. Oneeka Clark | Centrick | Defining success through motherhood and raising property management standards

    12/15/2025

    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
  7. Elliott Adair | Politics & Block Management

    12/08/2025

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

    12/01/2025

    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
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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.  

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