Busting mortgage myths & creative property finance with Shaz Ahmed!

We’re back after an unforgettable week at the Girls in Property 2025 Retreat—and what a week it was! There’s no better way to get back into the swing of things than with this lively and inspiring episode featuring the fabulous Emma Finn.You might know her as Oakshill Property on socials, but today, Emma’s sitting down with me to share the real story behind her incredible journey from the classroom to the world of property development. She opens up about what it truly took to leave behind a teaching career and build a successful business from the ground up, including the messy bits, the milestones, and everything in between.In our chat, Emma speaks candidly about the rollercoaster of renovation projects, the big decisions around financing with cash versus bridging loans, and the key role strong relationships—especially with architects and trusted partners—play in securing deals and driving results.We also dive into the power of community, particularly for women in the property world. Emma talks about how leaning into that support network has kept her grounded and motivated, even during the tough times. She’s all about building her business at a pace that feels sustainable and true to her—no burnout, just balance.And just when you think you’ve got her figured out, Emma shares a fascinating look into her new passion: spirituality and human design. She explains how getting to know herself on a deeper level has transformed the way she runs her business and why aligning your strategy with your personal design can lead to greater success and well-being.This episode is fun, empowering, and packed with wisdom. If you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering whether to take the leap into something new—this conversation is exactly what you need.How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

Happy Easter Bank Holiday Monday, everyone! 🐣✨With the Girls in Property Retreat just around the corner, I thought now would be the perfect time to sit down for a solo episode and catch up with you all. These episodes have become such a special space for me—to slow down, reflect, and connect with you on a more personal level.In this one, I’m sharing what’s been happening behind the scenes in the lead-up to our big annual event, and opening up about the journey of Girls in Property—how it all began, how far we’ve come, and everything I’ve learned along the way.Planning something like the retreat definitely isn’t always easy, but every challenge has been so worth it when I see this beautiful community growing and women lifting each other up in the property world.I also talk about what it really takes to bring these events to life—the power of having a strong, supportive team, and how much personal growth has happened alongside the professional. Plus, I’m giving you a little sneak peek into what’s next: more workshops, more retreats, and even more ways for us to grow, learn, and thrive together.Thank you so much for being here, for tuning in each week, and for all the love and support you give this podcast. It truly means the world. Let’s keep building something amazing—together. 💪🏽💫How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

In this episode of Girls in Property, Athena Dobson sits down with the brilliant Kim from KoMo Properties to explore her inspiring journey into the world of property investment. Kim shares how she got started with her very first deal – a bold move into a multi-unit block – and talks candidly about the lessons she’s learned along the way. From Kim’s, legal know-how and risk management to the real-life challenges of dealing with tenants, Kim opens up about the realities behind the business.The conversation flows into the importance of education, both formal and through hands-on experience, as well as the huge value of surrounding yourself with the right network. Athena and Kim also touch on the need to pause and celebrate your wins, even while juggling the everyday demands of running a business.They dive into the complexities of managing HMOs and what the upcoming Renters' Rights Bill could mean for landlords. Kim also shares insights on building a solid brand, why consistently reinvesting in your business matters, and how working with a life partner brings both challenges and rewards. Throughout the episode, there’s a clear message about staying flexible, prepared, and open to growth in an industry that’s always evolving.Packed with practical advice, honest reflections, and plenty of motivation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build or scale their property journey with purpose and confidence.How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

In this episode of the Girls in Property podcast, host Athena Dobson chats with the fabulous Julie Talbot—property investor, adventurer, and full-time slow traveler.Julie takes us on a whirlwind ride from her roots in a housing benefit family to living her dream life, globe-trotting with her family while managing a property business remotely (yes, it’s possible—and she’s doing it!).From expat life in the Middle East to figuring out how to juggle work, homeschooling, and a suitcase lifestyle, Julie gets real about the highs, the hiccups, and everything in between. She opens up about managing her portfolio from afar, lessons learned from the mistakes that had to happen, and the power of just diving in and figuring it out.We talk about what travel teaches kids, the magic of finding community on the road, and how freedom and fulfilment can look different for everyone—but it always starts with taking that first leap.Get ready for a raw, honest, and totally unfiltered convo that’ll leave you feeling fired up, inspired—and maybe even checking flight prices or planning your own big adventure.How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

She’s back! Now, you might be wondering why we’ve got two social media episodes in a row, but trust me—both bring something unique to the table. Last week, Milly Bellotti shared why posting on social media matters and how to lower the barrier to entry. This week, I’m thrilled to welcome back Sara Smile Scott to take us behind the screen and into the matrix of Instagram, breaking down key strategies for success.We dive into the importance of understanding the Instagram algorithm, why consistency in posting is crucial, and how to effectively leverage insights. The conversation also tackles the common overwhelm that comes with social media and, once again, reinforces the power of authenticity in personal branding. Plus, I wanted to get Sara’s take on how introverts can confidently navigate social platforms—taking small steps toward visibility, celebrating wins, and building meaningful connections.Tune in for an engaging and empowering discussion that will help you work smarter, not harder, when it comes to social media!How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

In this episode of the Girls in Property podcast, your host Athena is back with the fabulous Millie Bellotti—property investor and social media strategist—for an exciting deep dive into personal branding, property investment, and the power of community.Before diving into the juicy details, Millie kicks things off with an update on her latest adventure—her new serviced accommodation investment—sharing both the wins and the challenges along the way.Then, they get straight into the good stuff: social media strategies! They break down quick and easy tips for busy business owners and those who say, “I just don’t have time to post!” Millie reveals the secret sauce to consistency, staying engaged with your audience, and why building a strong community is key to personal and professional growth.Athena and Millie also explore the huge role community plays in property investment, the ups and downs of personal branding, and why meeting in person can be a total game-changer. They get real about how women in property can support each other, tackle mindset blocks, and how sharing experiences—through case studies, meetups, and real talk—can lead to success.The episode wraps up with a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity, networking, and lifting each other up to navigate the challenges of the property world.Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation packed with actionable tips you can start using right away!How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

You asked for it and here it is! Let’s talk about imposter syndrome. In this episode of the Girls in Property podcast, Athena Dobson and Akhtar Khan dive into the world of imposter syndrome, and how it shows up in both our personal and professional lives. They chat about the power of mindset, strategy, and emotional intelligence in beating those internal roadblocks and achieving success. Akhtar opens up about his journey from a tough childhood to becoming a successful property investor and business psychologist, sharing why self-discovery and having the right support system are key to navigating the ups and downs of life and business.The conversation shifts to authenticity, with Akhtar and Athena discussing how tricky it can be to maintain a polished facade while juggling the messy realities of life and business and how much to share of the imperfections both offline and online. They talk about those mental barriers that hold us back from seizing opportunities and why being part of a supportive community can make all the difference and how embracing vulnerability and forming genuine connections are powerful ways to crush imposter syndrome.The conversation then turns to childhood experiences and how these shape our adult self-esteem and emotional health. They touch on the importance of validation, the healing journey, and how embracing authenticity can help break the cycle of limiting beliefs that get passed down through generations. With personal stories, real talk and a few tears, I hope this will encourage you all to embrace your worth and either build or join strong, supportive communities to lift you up! Message me at @athenadobson_official to share your own stories.  How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

She’s back! 🎉 In this episode of the Girls in Property podcast, Athena Dobson is joined once again by the brilliant Ella Hardy—land and planning uplift specialist, industry powerhouse, and our very first announced speaker for the Girls in Property Annual Retreat on Friday, 25th April!Together, Athena and Ella dive into the realities of the property world, celebrating the wins, learning from the challenges, and embracing the resilience needed to push through setbacks. Ella shares invaluable insights on land acquisition, investment strategies, and the game-changing role of mentorship in building a successful career.They also dig deep into self-belief, persistence, and redefining success beyond financial gain. From tackling imposter syndrome to the truth about land investment, this conversation is packed with honest advice, practical takeaways, and plenty of encouragement.Plus, they chat about the power of community, the impact of social media on public perception, and why giving back is such a crucial part of success. Whether you’re just starting out or already making moves in property, this episode is full of inspiration to help you grow with confidence.Tune in now for an engaging, insightful, and laughter-filled discussion on building success in property and land development!How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

She’s back! In the latest episode of the Girls in Property podcast, Athena Dobson sits down with the incredible Rosalia Lazzara-Tilley, founder and CEO of Manuka Media, for a fun and insightful conversation filled with real talk, laughter, and invaluable wisdom. Together, they explore the power of community and why supporting other women in property and finance is an absolute game-changer. Rosalia shares her professional journey—the highs, the hustle, and the reality of juggling multiple roles while staying true to her purpose.They dive into the importance of personal branding and how social media can be used strategically to stand out without feeling overwhelmed. Rosalia opens up about the nuances of branding in different professional spaces and how understanding audience engagement across various platforms can make all the difference. They also discuss the significance of celebrating achievements—big, small, and everything in between—because recognizing progress is just as important as making it.The conversation also touches on event planning and the magic of in-person community engagement, highlighting the upcoming Ladies Who Can event at MIPIM. This event aims to bring women together, create meaningful connections, and empower them to take up space in an industry that still has a long way to go in terms of representation.Full of energy, honesty, and practical takeaways, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to own your space, build your brand, and find your people. Tune in for an uplifting discussion that proves once again—when women support women, incredible things happen!How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.

Pop the bubbly—Girls in Property is celebrating 100 episodes! 🥂✨ Hosts Athena Dobson and Sophie Foote take a joyful trip down memory lane, reflecting on their journey, wins big and small, and the personal growth that’s come with it.This milestone episode is packed with real talk, laughter, and behind-the-scenes stories—the late-night edits, the highs, the challenges, and the teamwork that made it all happen. Sophie shares exciting personal wins, and Athena couldn’t be prouder. They dive into the importance of celebrating progress, writing letters to past and future selves, and how vulnerability fuels growth.Of course, there’s plenty of humor! From funny industry moments to big-picture topics like selling a business, event planning, and dreaming up future retreats, Athena and Sophie keep it real. They even chat about personal travel goals, proving success is about both hustle and joy.Through it all, they celebrate women in property, the power of storytelling, and the magic of community over competition. As they mark 100 episodes, they look ahead with excitement—because this journey is just getting started.This celebratory episode is packed with inspiration, motivation, and plenty of laughs so sit tight and enjoy the episode, and cheers to the next 100 episodes and being the change, we want to see. How to get involved with the Girls in Property Community 👇 🎟️ Tickets to Girls in Property Annual Retreat are now SOLD OUT! 👩 Join Our Community 🎧Listen to Other Episodes Thank you to our main sponsor Kim McGinley from VIBE Finance GET IN TOUCH 📷 Instagram 📧 [email protected] -Don’t Miss Out! Click here to claim your FREE access to my Mindset Accelerator Programme. Start developing the mindset you need to become an outstanding property investor today! 🚀 Disclaimer: None of the content in our podcast is intended to constitute legal or financial advice. All interviews and statements are the thoughts & opinions of the hosts and guests themselves and should be taken as such. Any information used from this podcast is done so at your own risk.