Honest Proper-Tea Podcast

“Everyone’s chasing 7 figures — but what if that goal is quietly ruining your peace? Everyone’s chasing the 7-figure dream — but is it freedom, or just a fancier trap? In this week’s episode, Becky and Ruth get honest about the obsession with hitting £1M and what it really costs freelancers, founders, and property investors chasing the next milestone.They share their own early-career “7-figure fixation,” what they learned from scaling too fast, and why boring wealth might actually be the kind that lasts.Key TakeawaysBigger isn’t always better — growth without intention leads to burnout.Revenue ≠ profit. Don’t confuse shiny numbers with real wealth.Over 50% of UK business owners report poor mental health from financial stress (Simply Business, 2025).Diversification and slower, more aligned growth create sustainable freedom.Your “enough number” is probably smaller — and closer — than you think.Chapters00:00 — Welcome to the Honest Property Podcast 00:20 — Why the 7-figure goal feels so seductive 02:30 — How social media fuels the obsession 05:00 — The trap of scaling too fast 07:00 — Burnout, cashflow danger & freelancer pressure in 2025 10:40 — Turnover myths: when big numbers mean nothing 14:00 — Redefining success and the ‘freedom number’ 17:30 — Real examples from our own property & business journey 20:00 — Why aligned wealth beats hustle culture every time 23:00 — Final thoughts: success without sacrifice🌏 Explore our worldhttps://honestpropertysisters.com/👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)📝 FREE Entrepreneurs Guide to Wealth Buildinghttps://shorturl.at/ttTKQ🦋 FREE Property Freedom Blueprinthttps://shorturl.at/bzaje📊 FREE Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-proper...All enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comKeywords seven figure business, freelancer burnout, property investing 2025, turnover vs profit, UK entrepreneurs, financial freedom, slow wealth, aligned wealth, money mindset, sustainable business growth

Lenders want you to borrow money.When it comes to borrowing money, lenders want you to borrow — that’s how they make their profit. But not all mortgage products are made equal, especially when it comes to HMO properties.In this episode, Rebecca breaks down how lenders and brokers really work, why understanding different mortgage products matters, and how choosing the right borrowing strategy can change everything for your portfolio.What You’ll LearnWhy lenders are often more eager to lend than you think.The difference between HMO mortgage products and standard ones.How a good broker can help you find the best strategy for borrowing.Why speaking directly to your broker can unlock better mortgage options.How understanding the rules (and the market) puts you in control.Chapters00:00 — Understanding Property Investment Deposits00:27 — Finding the Right Financial Guidance01:45 — How Lenders and Brokers Really Work03:20 — The Hidden Rules of HMO Mortgage Products05:05 — Why Direct Broker Relationships Matter06:40 — Borrowing Strategies That Actually Work08:15 — Long-Term Thinking: Refinancing and Cashflow09:45 — Key Takeaways and Real-Life Advice🌏 Explore our worldhttps://honestpropertysisters.com/👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekOur secret to saving hours every week? Filipino VAs from The Freedom Geek. 👏👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)🦋 FREE Property Freedom Blueprinthttps://shorturl.at/bzaje🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-proper...All enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comkeywords mortgage products, lenders, brokers, HMO, borrowing money

“Slow Wealth Is the Only Way Out.”This episode asks the question so many of us quietly feel: How do you build aligned, long-term wealth in a world built on debt, inflation, and non-stop money printing?Inspired by Joe Bryan’s “What’s the Problem?”, we break down why everything feels more expensive, why your money doesn’t stretch like it used to, and what slow, sustainable wealth actually looks like in 2025.We cover: 💸 money losing value 🥨 shrinkflation everywhere 🇬🇧 why the UK feels like bad ROI 🏡 good debt vs bad debt 🔁 BRRR then vs now 🌱 property as long-term wealth storageIf you’ve been wondering whether property still makes sense — or why your money feels like it’s shrinking — this one’s for you.Listen now.Chapters00:00 – Intro: Can you build aligned wealth now? 01:00 – Joe Bryan’s “What’s the Problem?” and why it hits different 03:00 – Shrinkflation in real life (crisps, chocolate fingers, the lot)04:30 – Why the UK feels like bad ROI on everything10:00 – Good debt vs bad debt: the real difference11:30 – BRRR then vs now — a new reality15:00 – Property as long-term wealth storage18:30 – Income streams that aren’t ruled by inflation20:45 – What freedom looks like in a debt-based world🌏 Explore our worldhttps://honestpropertysisters.com/👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)📊 FREE Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40TAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comKeywordsdebt-based economy, slow wealth, BRRR 2025, inflation UK, property investing UK, millennial money, Joe Bryan What’s the Problem

“Not every season of business is meant for scaling.”In this week’s chat, Becky & Ruth dive into the real side of minimalism in entrepreneurship — how it can be both a conscious choice for freedom and a quiet fear of responsibility. We talk about the natural seasons of business — growth, consolidation, reflection — and how knowing which one you’re in changes everything.We also unpack:✨ Why scaling isn’t always the answer✨ How reflection and pruning create space for aligned growth✨ The role of self-awareness in deciding what “enough” looks like✨ How life stages shift your priorities and shape your business visionIt’s an honest convo about slowing down, checking in, and designing a business that truly fits the life you want — not the one the internet tells you to build.🎧 Tune in for a grounded take on freedom, alignment, and business minimalism.Chapters:00:00 — Intro: Minimalism in entrepreneurship02:56 — Seasons of business: growth vs. consolidation05:19 — Balancing scaling and enjoyment07:58 — Freedom vs. fear of responsibility10:39 — The risk of over-scaling and losing passion13:15 — Finding growth in minimalism15:51 — Reflection and gratitude18:46 — Pruning vs. scaling21:25 — Cultural takes on minimalism24:00 — Aligning business with your life vision🌏 Explore our worldhttps://honestpropertysisters.com/👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)📝 FREE Entrepreneurs Guide to Wealth Buildinghttps://shorturl.at/ttTKQ🦋 FREE Property Freedom Blueprinthttps://shorturl.at/bzaje📊 FREE Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-property-sistersAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comKeywords: minimalism, entrepreneurship, alignment, lifestyle design, freedom, business seasons, scaling, self-awareness

"Luxury isn’t the enemy — ego is.”What does anti-materialism really mean — and is wanting nice things bad?In this episode, Becky and Ruth unpack the tension between wealth, worth, and the pursuit of “enough.” They explore how financial freedom can coexist with simplicity, why rejecting luxury isn’t always noble, and how cultural and generational perspectives shape our relationship with money.From crab mentality and community support to redefining what luxury means ethically, this conversation is all about finding balance — enjoying abundance without losing your values.This conversation dives into:Financial freedom ≠ materialism — money buys choice, not happiness.Rejecting luxury can sometimes come from shame, not virtue.Your circle shapes your success — surround yourself with people who clap for you.Different cultures define wealth and luxury in their own way.Sustainability and ethics matter more than ever.Real luxury? Living on your own terms.Chapters00:00 Exploring Anti-Materialism02:10 The Value of Money and Experiences05:35 Luxury and Self-Worth09:04 Crab Mentality and Community Support11:09 Cultural Perspectives on Wealth12:38 Materialism vs. Financial Freedom16:32 First Impressions and Social Media19:02 Balancing Luxury and Anti-Materialism22:53 Sustainability and Ethical Consumption26:28 Generational Shifts in Materialism🌏 Explore our worldhttps://honestpropertysisters.com/👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)📊 FREE Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-property-sistersAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comkeywordsanti-materialism, financial freedom, luxury, self-worth, community support, cultural perspectives, sustainability, ethical consumption, experiences over things, crab mentality

Passive Income is Rebranded LazinessIs passive income the holy grail… or the biggest scam in property investing?In this episode of the Honest Proper-Tea Podcast, Becky and Ruth pull back the curtain on the passive income dream. From the realities of buy-to-let compliance to the impact of the Renters’ Reform Bill, they share why property isn’t passive — it’s leveraged.Expect real talk on:Why words matter: “passive” behaviour = passive resultsThe compliance minefield landlords can’t ignoreHow agents, tenants, and mortgages all impact your bottom lineWhy treating property as a business (not a side hustle) is the only way to win long-termThe wider truth: does any income stream really stay passive?This isn’t doom and gloom — it’s the honest, unfiltered take on how to build wealth that lasts.Chapters00:00 The Myth of Passive Income in Property Investment02:25 The Reality of Being a Landlord05:20 The Importance of Active Management08:07 Wealth Building Beyond Property10:23 The Shift in Landlord Responsibilities13:07 Understanding Wealth Strategies16:38 The Dangers of Complacency18:55 The Marketing of Passive Income21:11 Final Thoughts on Wealth and Responsibility👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)✨ Join the Aligned Wealth Collectivehttps://shorturl.at/S3ZuC🏡 Beginner’s Road Map : BTL Portfolio Building!https://shorturl.at/ZGBdq📝 FREE Entrepreneurs Guide to Wealth Buildinghttps://shorturl.at/ttTKQ📊 Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-property-sistersHonest disclosure Some links may be affiliatedAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comwww.honestpropertysisters.comKeywordsproperty investment, passive income, landlord responsibilities, wealth building, UK property market, renters reform bill, property management, financial education, real estate, investment strategies

In this episode of the Honest Property Podcast, Becky and Ruth open up about hustle culture, productivity myths, and what it really means to create a business — and life — that feels good.They share personal reflections on how parenthood, cultural shifts, and living abroad have reshaped their view of success. From rejecting the constant pressure to “do more” to embracing a slower, more intentional pace, this conversation is about building sustainable wealth and happiness on your own terms.What you’ll learn:Why hustle culture leads to burnout and dissatisfactionHow to swap “more” for “better” in both property and entrepreneurshipThe role of community in creating a fulfilling businessHow cultural shifts can reset your productivity mindsetWhy sustainable business models matter for long-term successIt’s a reminder that less is often more — and that the real goal isn’t just success, but enjoyment.This conversation is inspired by  @mattdavella  's latest video:https://youtu.be/GKWrSLCqgG4?si=UfQF4iKbceHXK8N4Slow Productivity by Cal Newport: https://amzn.to/4nyf2LJChapters00:00 Introduction to Hustle Culture and Personal Reflections02:47 The Impact of Parenthood on Productivity05:22 Rethinking Hustle: Quality Over Quantity07:51 The Dangers of Hustle Culture10:39 Finding Balance in Business and Life13:25 Cultural Shifts: Slowing Down in Asia16:09 Creating a New Structure for Work18:52 Community Engagement and Personal Fulfillment21:17 The Future of Honest Property Sisters23:50 Final Thoughts: Less is More👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)✨ Join the Aligned Wealth Collectivehttps://shorturl.at/S3ZuC🏡 Beginner’s Road Map : BTL Portfolio Building!https://shorturl.at/ZGBdq📝 FREE Entrepreneurs Guide to Wealth Buildinghttps://shorturl.at/ttTKQ📊 Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-property-sistersHonest disclosure Some links may be affiliatedAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comwww.honestpropertysisters.comKeywordshustle culture, productivity, entrepreneurship, property investing, work-life balance, quality over quantity, community engagement, personal fulfillment, digital business, sustainable investing

Don't let lifestyle creep steal your FreedomIn this episode, Becky and Ruth get real about the difference between income and wealth— and why it matters even more when you’re living abroad.From the trap of lifestyle creep to the joy of negotiating rent, they share their own expat experiences and practical money moves that help you enjoy life today without sacrificing financial freedom tomorrow.This is an honest chat about:Why lifestyle creep is the sneakiest wealth-killerHow to budget + automate your savings abroadNegotiating costs and not keeping up with the “expat Joneses”Thinking of your future you with every financial decisionBuilding long-term wealth while still living fullyWhether you’re already overseas, planning a move, or just curious about balancing money and lifestyle, this one’s packed with perspective shifts you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.Chapters02:28 The Trap of Lifestyle Creep05:02 Balancing Lifestyle and Financial Goals07:27 Living Within Your Means Abroad09:42 Budgeting for a New Life11:56 The Importance of Wealth Building14:27 Automating Your Finances17:15 Enjoying Life While Saving19:57 Strategizing Your Move Abroad22:34 Avoiding Common Expat Pitfalls👩🏻‍💻 Sponsored by The Freedom GeekWe’ve saved hours each week thanks to the incredible Filipino VA's and Editors from The Freedom Geek. If you’re ready to delegate and work smarter, check them out!👉 https://thefreedomgeek.contactin.bio(mention 'Honest Property Sisters' for £50 off!)✨ Join the Aligned Wealth Collectivehttps://shorturl.at/S3ZuC🏡 Beginner’s Road Map : BTL Portfolio Building!https://shorturl.at/ZGBdq👩🏽‍🏫 Ready to Learn how to invest in Property?Join our Group Coaching Waitlist:https://shorturl.at/LC4ef📝 FREE Entrepreneurs Guide to Wealth Buildinghttps://shorturl.at/ttTKQ📊 Deal Analyserhttps://shorturl.at/ST40T🏘️ How we manage our Portfoliohttps://lendlord.io/the-honest-property-sistersHonest disclosure Some links may be affiliatedAll enquiries please email 💌 hello@honestpropertysisters.comwww.honestpropertysisters.comKeywords:wealth, lifestyle, expat, budgeting, financial goals, lifestyle creep, saving, investing, living abroad, financial literacy