Episodes
Join us in this illuminating episode of the Ignite Podcast, where Emma, Aj’s ‘Chief Happiness Officer’, shares invaluable lessons from her extensive experience with our AJ Mastermind members.  Dive deep into real-life success stories, such as Olivia’s strategic mastery in high-value property markets and Simon’s bold leap out of his comfort zone. These narratives aren’t just inspiring—they're a roadmap to cultivating a top performer’s mindset! Learn from Michael Mortimer’s insights into team...
Published 05/03/24
This episode of the Ignite Your Agency Podcast dives deep into the brave athlete mindset, revealing how the qualities that define sports heroes can empower property professionals to achieve greatness.  Join us as we explore the critical interplay between passion, motivation, and a profound love for the craft, all essential for both a winning athlete and a top-performing agent. Discover the fascinating dynamics between the emotional "chimp brain" and the analytical "professor brain." Learn how...
Published 04/26/24
Published 04/26/24
Do the latest budget changes Impact your Agency? Sam and Phil delve into the recent budget announcement that has left many property professionals seeking answers! Explore the unexpected cuts to Capital Gains Tax and the decision to freeze lower income tax brackets—actions that appear misaligned with the current economic realities of the housing market.  From the elimination of stamp duty reliefs to the perplexing adjustments in furnished holiday let taxes, discover how these changes are...
Published 04/19/24
 Ready to dominate the Spring 2024 market? This is a direct call to action for all ambitious agency owners! 🪓 Unpredictable Cash Flow? 🪓 Underperforming Content Strategy? 🪓 Difficulty Adapting to Market Changes? 🪓 Premature Price Reductions? 🪓 Challenging Team Dynamics? 🪓 Lack of a Strategic Plan? If any of these challenges resonate with you, we've tailored a strategy that can turn these obstacles into stepping stones for YOUR success. Unlock the power of our Market Response Plan, grounded...
Published 04/12/24
Are you grappling with the decision to stick with a challenging client or let go? Dive into our latest episode where Sam and Phil explore the delicate balance of managing tough client relationships as an estate agent.  Learn when to push through the hurdles to turn a demanding client into a die-hard advocate, and when it's wise to strategically disengage for the health of your agency and team morale. Uncover the secrets to agency growth and how facing tough decisions head-on can be...
Published 04/05/24
Dive into our latest episode where Edward Hartshorne unveils the remarkable transformation of Blenkin & Co which is now a leading independent firm in high-end property sales and lettings.  Discover Edward's journey from the ground up and how knowledge of agency operations propelled Blenkin & Co to the pinnacle of the estate agency market.  This episode doesn't just highlight success stories; it delves into the nuanced challenges of client-agent relationships, especially when dealing...
Published 03/29/24
Ready to scale your agency with the perfect work-life balance? Sam interviews Michael Mortimer, whose journey to a million-£ turnover is packed with strategies you can't afford to miss.  Discover how focusing on high-value tasks and setting non-negotiable personal boundaries could revolutionise your approach to business and life. Unlock the secrets of building a cohesive team that's in it for the long haul, as Michael shares his transition from HR-averse to a leader who champions effective...
Published 03/22/24
Are you ready to transform challenges into opportunities and take your agency to new heights with fearless determination? In this episode, Sam is joined by Megan, who shares her remarkable ascent from Client Executive Assistant to leading her own team at Ashdown Jones. Learn how making bold decisions and embracing risk can drive significant progress in the world of selling property. Dive into the power of turning vulnerability into your greatest asset. Explore essential strategies for...
Published 03/15/24
Are you constantly battling the clock, feeling there's never enough time for work, family, or yourself?  Sam and Phil dive deep into the essence of time management, far beyond the usual to-do lists. Discover transformative insights and personal journeys that will revolutionise your relationship with time, ensuring every minute counts towards achieving all your goals in life. Unearth the concept of 'time tokens', a shift in perspective that assesses the impact of each task on your business and...
Published 03/08/24
Are you weary from the constant chase of selling lower-value homes and looking to move up to more premium properties? This episode of the Ignite Podcast could be the breakthrough you've been searching for. Join Sam and Phil as they showcase how shifting focus to higher-value properties can significantly enhance your profitability and transform your agency's branding. Uncover the strategies that led to AJ's success in the premium market, packed with practical insights on niche marketing and...
Published 03/01/24
Paul Avins, an expert in entrepreneurial well-being, unlocks the secrets of scaling your agency without burnout. If you're navigating the high seas of agency ownership, this episode is your lighthouse, uncover the balance between ambitious growth and personal health. Discover actionable strategies for building a solid team, crafting a clear business plan, and why stepping back can sometimes be the best step forward for your business. Dive into the essentials of making your business...
Published 02/23/24
Delve into AJ’s 'New Branch Playbook' and discover how meticulous process documentation can elevate your agency from survival mode to a thriving, scaleable enterprise. Experience the empowerment of stepping back without stepping away. Learn from Sam’s journey of taking time off, and see how a well-structured agency can continue its momentum, empowering your team to independently steer the ship.  Discover actionable strategies on delegation and system creation, ensuring your agency...
Published 02/16/24
Learn from Lucy, our lead designer, how creativity isn't just about aesthetics but a strategic tool for innovation and problem-solving. Discover the synergy between creativity and structure, as we reveal how past experiences and cultural histories shape compelling narratives in your marketing, resonating deeply with potential clients. Unlock the potential of the 'Brand Bible' in harmonising creative freedom with consistency, ensuring your agency's brand stands out. We share insights into...
Published 02/09/24
Step into "Challenge 2023 - A Year of Challenges," where Sam guides you on an extraordinary path of self-discovery and growth. This episode transcends a mere recount of a year brimming with monthly challenges; it's a call to you to carve your transformative journey. Each challenge, from the thrill of physical feats to the rigour of mental tasks, forms a vital part of a blueprint tailored for your personal and professional evolution. Discover the transformative power of a screen-free month,...
Published 02/02/24
Welcome to a special of Ignite Your Agency where we look back on some of our biggest and best episodes from 2023. Embark on a journey of self-discovery as we look back on  episodes including the 'wheels' of life and business, guiding you through a reflective audit of your lifestyle and professional goals. Arm yourself with the tools for a comprehensive lifestyle audit, perfectly aligned with your agency's aspirations. Engage in an intimate discussion about the essence of relationships,...
Published 01/26/24
Welcome back to Part 2 of our in-depth exploration of Aaron Ross's "From Impossible to Inevitable," brought to you exclusively, by Sam and Phil. Transform your approach to achieving supersized deals by implementing niche marketing strategies that target higher-value property markets. Discover how to move away from the relentless competition in lower-value markets, learning how to rebrand and reposition your agency for the big leagues with ease. Gain insights into the real entrepreneurial...
Published 01/19/24
Have you ever wondered what sets industry giants like Salesforce apart and how you could transfer all that success into your estate agency? Join Sam and Phil in part 1 of 2, where they dissect Aaron Ross's six-step framework from "From the Impossible to the Inevitable." Discover how this blueprint can transform your agency, from pinpointing your niche to mastering predictable lead generation. Uncover the secrets behind Salesforce's explosive growth and learn how to apply these strategies...
Published 01/12/24
Discover how the team at AshdownJones and AJ Mastermind harness the power of good energy and passion to create an environment that not only draws clients but also inspires and drives team growth. Learn the secrets behind cultivating a magnetic atmosphere and how it fuels motivation and agency expansion. Gain insights into how unique team-building experiences like icy lake swims can dramatically uplift morale and infuse your agency with vibrant energy. Understand the importance of each team...
Published 01/05/24
As 2023 draws to a close, join Sam and Phil in sharing the 13 critical lessons they wish they knew earlier in their journey as agency owners.  Discover the transformative power of perpetual recruitment and succession planning;  ensuring your agency never skips a beat, even when key team members move on.  Learn how a well-maintained talent bench and a clear understanding of pricing can set you apart from the competition, guaranteeing that your agency survives and thrives in any market...
Published 12/29/23
Join Sam for an eye-opening interview with Edward from AshdownJones, where they unravel transformative strategies and tactical approaches for your agency’s growth. Dive into the innovative Performance and Development (PAD) sessions and the 'Start, Stop, Continue' method. Learn how integrating continuous employee development into your agency's culture can harmonise personal growth with professional success, laying the foundation for a high-performing team. Enlighten yourself with the...
Published 12/22/23
Having a strong pipeline is very important, especially as an agency owner for long-term profitability. Gain exclusive insights into Sam and Phil’s year-end planning and team feedback processes at AJ HQ and learn how to balance the tough housing market's demands with the need for growth, even during challenging times. Discover the critical balance between buyers and sellers, and uncover how extending your strategy beyond survival can lead to dominating your market area. Sam and Phil also...
Published 12/15/23
What is the balance between the relentless pursuit of your agency’s success and personal well-being? Discover why self-care and strategic planning aren't just buzzwords, but essential practices for your success and sanity. Learn how your calendar could be your secret weapon in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, even during the busiest seasons. Sam and Phil also share the underrated power of taking holidays – your key to recharging and returning stronger in business. This episode isn't...
Published 12/08/23
How do you navigate the delicate balance when your team members face the pull between crucial family commitments and their career ambitions? Learn how adopting a 'Family First' principle can revolutionise your agency's approach, making sure your team doesn't have to choose one over the other. Hear from the team at AJ - Jenna, Lexi and Hannah, who share their personal experiences of how this inclusive culture has not only improved their work-life balance but also boosted their professional...
Published 12/01/23
Dive into Sam and Phil’s expertly crafted winter reading list, carefully chosen to supercharge your agency. Embrace their cutting-edge insights on resilience and masterful leadership from John C. Maxwell's "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership," transforming them into groundbreaking strategies for your business. Harness the power of empathy from Matthew Perry's raw and revealing memoir, and radically overhaul your sales approach with the disruptive techniques from "The Answer is a...
Published 11/24/23