The Maison Gent Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

The Maison Gent Podcast is a long-form conversation series about the places that shape us — and the people we become inside them. In this opening episode, I set the tone for what’s to come: honest, unpolished conversations about homes, work, ambition, identity, family, and the quiet decisions that build a life over time.

This isn’t a podcast about property alone. It’s about why certain spaces feel like home, how environments influence who we are, and what happens when success, comfort, or stability gets questioned. From childhood houses to first flats, dream builds to unexpected pivots, each episode explores the connection between place and personal truth.

There’s no performance here. No gurus. No formulas. Just thoughtful conversations with people who’ve lived, built, lost, started again — and learned something along the way. Whether you’re interested in design, property, creativity, business, or simply the stories behind how people live, The Maison Gent Podcast is an invitation to slow down, listen closely, and reflect on the spaces that quietly shape your life.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, award-winning film director Steve Ramsden shares insights into his life, career, and creative aspirations. From his unique upbringing, which involved moving around the world, to his current projects in filmmaking, Steve discusses the importance of home, family, and the influence of creativity in his life. He also imagines his dream home and reflects on the future of his filmmaking career, emphasizing the desire to entertain and inspire through storytelling.

Takeaways

Steve Ramsden has over 15 years of experience in filmmaking.

His childhood involved significant travel, shaping his worldview.

The concept of home is deeply tied to family and experiences.

Steve's current home reflects his personality and creative spirit.

He values the importance of having a space that feels like home.

Imagining a dream home involves considering both aesthetics and functionality.

Steve's future projects aim to blend client work with creative storytelling.

He believes in the power of physical media over streaming.

Steve's passion for film soundtracks influences his creative environment.

He aspires to be remembered for entertaining people through his stories.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of Steve Ramsden

09:04 Defining Home and Family Influence

16:56 Creating the Dream Home

19:23 Dream Home Vision

22:27 Art and Atmosphere in the Dream Home

25:00 Indulgences and Luxuries

29:08 Future Projects and Creative Aspirations

34:31 Legacy and Creative Impact

In this episode, Craig Conway shares his inspiring journey from regional roots to creating vibrant creative hubs that support filmmakers, actors, and artists beyond traditional industry centers. Learn how he's fostering community, sustainability, and opportunity in the Northeast of England.

• Craig Conway’s early life and how regional upbringing shaped his approach to creativity
• The importance of belonging and building sustainable creative ecosystems outside of London
• Launching ISS Airview Park: a community-driven space for independent filmmakers and artists
• Developing talent pipelines from education through to production within regional communities
• The plan for local retention of IP and talent to boost regional economic growth
• Upcoming projects: a double-bill addressing health awareness through film and innovative storytelling initiatives
• Using social media and partnerships to grow regional creative networks

• ISS Airview Park
• A Part to Play community
• House 54 Productions
• Friedfest Glasgow
• Craig Conway - Instagram
• Craig Conway - Facebook

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Join us as Victoria Ramez, an innovative Newcastle-based architect, shares her journey from university to founding her own practice. Discover her design philosophy, her insights on working with historic listed properties her approach to transforming everyday spaces.

Key topics:

• Victoria’s background and inspiration from Northumbria University and her early influences
• The evolution from university interest to passionate practice
• Differences in working between London and Newcastle, and perceptions of development
• The motivation behind starting her own architectural firm post-London career
• Her approach to high-end residential projects on prestigious streets
• The importance of light, finishes, and layered lighting in creating relaxing spaces

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Victoria Rames and her unique architectural focus 00:43 - Victoria’s early life in Gosforth and education background 02:03 - How inspiration from university shaped her career 03:23 - The journey into architecture and university experience 04:43 - Transition from university to professional practice 06:53 - Inspiration from architects like Niemeyer and Zaha Hadid 07:14 - When architecture became a true passion 09:19 - Navigating the London job market and moving to London 12:42 - Comparing development and planning processes in London vs. Newcastle 16:00 - The decision to start her own practice back in Newcastle 18:45 - Her initial projects and building a client base through reputation 19:37 - High-end projects on prestigious streets and their significance 21:19 - The impact of small design interventions on home life 23:32 - The value of lighting, finishes, and external aesthetics 30:32 - The importance of external design and curb appeal 31:46 - Her full-service project approach and site management 33:56 - Embracing site challenges and evolving designs during construction 35:10 - Future goals, mentoring, and potential building dreams 37:43 - Dream home concept: lakeside, mid-century modern, expansive views 39:01 - What Victoria wishes to be remembered for 40:13 - How to connect with Victoria Rames and her collective

Resources & Links:

• Victoria Ramez Architects
• The Fold Collective
• Northumbria University Architecture Program
• Oscar Niemeyer - Architect Profile
• Zaha Hadid - Architect Profile

Connect with Victoria:

• Instagram - Victoria Ramez Architects
• LinkedIn - Victoria Ramez
• Phone: 0191 429 5813

Special mention: Victoria is a founding member of The Fold Collective, a women-led network fostering collaboration among design professionals, emphasising trust and shared creativity in architecture and interior design.

This episode offers a comprehensive look at modern architectural practice from someone passionate about creating homes that truly enhance daily life. Perfect for aspiring architects, homeowners, and design enthusiasts alike!

Dr. Jacopo Iasiello shares his journey from a football dream to becoming a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing resilience, real estate investing, problem-solving, overcoming fear, and the importance of profit, impact, and purpose. He also discusses transcendental meditation and his vision for a legacy of impactful entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

• Resilience and adaptability are key to navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
• Real estate investing requires problem-solving and a strategic approach to challenges.
• Overcoming fear and taking action are essential for entrepreneurial success.
• Profit, impact, and purpose are interconnected and vital for a meaningful entrepreneurial journey.
• Holistic approaches like transcendental meditation can enhance an entrepreneur's mindset and well-being.
• Building a legacy of impactful entrepreneurship involves creating value and making a positive impact on others.

Chapters

• 00:00 From Football Dream to Entrepreneurship
• 11:14 Real Estate Investing and Wealth Creation
• 19:07 Challenges and Problem-Solving in Real Estate
• 25:13 Overcoming Fear and Taking Action
• 32:04 Profit, Impact, and Purpose
• 39:15 Transcendental Meditation and Holistic Approach

Social Links:

Website: www.healthyrichandhappy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacopoiasielloinvestorbroker/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacopoiasiellorealestate

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacopo-iasiello-50936244/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacopoiasiellobroker2735

Discover how Christian Lawlor built a menswear brand rooted in timeless style, quality, and patience. Learn why doing less often means achieving more and how to craft a brand that stands the test of time.

• Christian’s background and childhood influences
• The emergence of Kempt during the COVID pandemic
• Building a brand centered on quality and longevity
• The importance of slow growth and authenticity
• Future collections including knitwear and chinos
• Building a loyal customer base through social media
• Collaborations, retail plans, and pop-up events
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and young creatives

00:00 - Introduction to Christian Lawler and the ethos of understated menswear
01:09 - Christian’s childhood in Dublin and early career in menswear
02:41 - The influence of social media and discovering premium brands like The Armory
06:24 - Launching Kempt during COVID: challenges and core principles
08:24 - Refining fit and quality in the current collection
09:10 - Ideal customer profile and brand positioning
11:42 - Unexpected wins and "oh shit" moments in business
13:51 - Navigating supply chain challenges and retail opportunities
16:24 - Building slow, sustainable growth over fast scaling
17:28 - Defining the brand’s foundation and legacy
18:17 - Upcoming product launches and future plans for Kempt
20:12 - Pop-up events and retail store ambitions
21:18 - Collaborations and brand partnerships
24:10 - How to find and buy Kempt pieces
25:02 - Best wardrobe staples for first-time customers and seasonality tips
26:01 - Closing thoughts and Christian’s message to aspiring entrepreneurs

• Kemptwear Official Website
• Christian Lawler on Instagram
• Crockett & Jones Shoes
• The Armory Hong Kong
• Brown Thomas Dublin

• Instagram
• Email: hello@kemptwear.com
• Website contact form available on www.kemptwear.com

Discover the realities behind entrepreneurship from Mike Konrad, founder of Aquarius Technologies and host of The Reluctant Entrepreneur podcast.

In this episode, Mike shares decades of insights on resilience, scaling, and developing the mindset needed for lasting success.

Main Topics Covered:

Why many people avoid entrepreneurship due to perceived risk and uncertainty

The importance of control versus empowerment in business growth.

How scaling skills, not just the business, is critical to long-term survival.

The role of purpose and tribe in building a purpose-driven company.

Strategies for navigating 'oh shit moments' through trust and decision-making.

Lessons learned from writing his book and his career setbacks.

Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs considering their first step.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Mike Konrad and his entrepreneurial journey

02:30 - The challenge of risk perception in entrepreneurship

05:00 - The importance of crazy people and purpose-driven business

09:45 - How early life influences entrepreneurial values

12:45 - Building a purpose beyond products

15:30 - The reality of entrepreneurship: problem-solving and resilience

19:00 - Myths versus reality about control and risk

22:20 - The power of writing a business book for clarity

26:00 - Handling 'shit moments' with trust and process

30:00 - The significance of making decisions before crises hit

34:00 - Scaling challenges and survival strategies

38:00 - The importance of financial literacy and KPIs

43:00 - Advice for new entrepreneurs with investment funds

47:00 - Quick fire questions: control versus empowerment, scale versus build

50:00 - Technical difficulties and reconnecting

Resources & Links:

The Reluctant Entrepreneur Podcast

Good to Great by Jim Collins

Built to Last by Jim Collins

Mike Konrad's Book: The Reluctant Entrepreneur (Hypothetical; search for similar titles)

Connect with Mike Konrad:

LinkedIn

Twitter

Additional Notes:

Emphasizing the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and purpose in entrepreneurship.

Practical tips for navigating uncertainty and making decisive actions.

The value of mentorship, continuous learning, and mindset shifts.

Website

Book

Podcast

youtube

Discover how Lucy, founder of Lumin Architects, combines sustainable design, light optimization, and a holistic approach to create spaces that truly enhance wellbeing. In this episode, she shares her journey from Slovenia to London, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and her vision for the future of residential architecture.

• How growing up in Slovenia influenced Lucy’s approach to design and life
• The importance of light in architecture and how it impacts family living
• Challenges faced when scaling a boutique architecture practice
• The role of AI in architecture and its potential as a creative aid
• Practical advice for young professionals interested in property and design
• How motherhood reshaped Lucy’s perspective on residential projects
• Insights into sustainable building practices and client collaboration
• Strategies for building a client base in a slow-burning industry
• The significance of integrity and authenticity in architectural work
• Future plans for scaling and refining her business and vision

• 00:00 - Introduction to Lucy and her architectural philosophy
• 01:13 - Growing up in Slovenia and moving to London for opportunities
• 02:26 - The significance of family roots and childhood beliefs about money
• 03:36 - Lucy’s journey into architecture and entrepreneurship
• 05:09 - The support system from her parents and early career challenges
• 07:00 - Redefining beliefs about money and independence
• 08:18 - Developing her architecture business and unique service offering
• 13:09 - How becoming a mother influenced her project approach
• 14:53 - The importance of client-driven design and flexibility
• 17:15 - Overcoming challenges and mindset resilience in business
• 19:39 - Starting, scaling, and the dynamics of the architecture marketplace
• 21:12 - Mentorship and personal development as an entrepreneur
• 22:16 - Advice for young professionals in property and architecture
• 23:50 - The role of AI in architectural work and maintaining human judgment
• 25:22 - Approaches to scaling versus controlled growth
• 25:39 - Building to make an impact, not just profit
• 25:52 - What Lucy wants to be remembered for in her work
• 26:55 - Connecting with Lucy: social media and future projects
• 27:29 - Future plans for Lumen Architects and upcoming projects

• Lumen Architects Website

  Connect with Lucy:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Lucy emphasizes light, authenticity, and client connection as core to her design philosophy, aiming to create spaces that are honest, sustainable, and deeply aligned with the users’ lives. Her story inspires aspiring architects and property developers to pursue impact-driven work with integrity.

Discover how Richard Salkeld, communications and partnerships director at Lumo Travel, is reshaping rail travel to be more sustainable, affordable, and community-focused. From innovative partnerships to promoting regional pride, this episode delves into the positive power of responsible travel and its future.

• The evolution and social impact of Lumo Travel’s low-cost, electric train services across the UK
• How travel enhances personal growth, broadens horizons, and strengthens community ties
• The importance of sustainable travel and industry innovations to reduce environmental footprints
• Strategies for making travel more affordable and accessible, especially for underserved communities
• Richard's insights into international travel experiences shaping his worldview
• The role of rail travel in fostering social connections, cultural exchange, and economic growth

• Lumo Travel
• Royal Mail Train
• GWR Pullman Dining Experience
• Pheonix Arts Club
• Eurovision Song Contest
• UK Northumberland Line
• Daft as a Brush

• LinkedIn
• Lumo Travel Socials

In this episode, Martin Wardle shares his inspiring journey from a council estate in the North East to establishing his own tax advisory business. We explore the importance of resilience, strategic thinking in property investment, and building a trusted team to achieve business and personal goals.

• Martin's background growing up on a council estate and influences from family role models
• The unconventional path into accountancy and tax advisory
• The significance of resilience, persistence, and hard work in professional life
• How Martin's health scare prompted a shift towards entrepreneurship
• The concept of a one-stop shop for property investors and property landlords
• Targeting the "boomer landlord" segment for tailored tax and financial advice
• The importance of building a trusted team of professionals to streamline property investment
• Strategies for managing risk, growth, and realistic targets in property portfolios
• The value of sharing knowledge and making a positive impact in the tax and property sectors
• Future vision: Engaging larger audiences through speaking and education

• Martin Wardle - Official Website
• Martin's Instagram

• LinkedIn