Today, Kieron and Jonathan take a look back at the challenges, lessons, and successes of their 2025 as they approach the Christmas season. They discuss their ambitious goals for the year, including various development projects such as Woodlands Ponsanooth, St. James Court, and Luxstowe House, while sharing insights on navigating the complexities of property development. The duo highlights the importance of building strong relationships with investors and landowners, as well as the value of collaboration in overcoming obstacles. They also touch on the launch of their podcast, plans for a Property Developers Bootcamp, and the expansion of their media company, POM Media.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It's important to take time to reflect on the past year, assessing both successes and challenges. This practice can provide valuable insights and help in setting future goals.

Managing multiple development projects can be complex, especially when dealing with issues like planning, financing, and unforeseen complications such as contamination testing. Patience and adaptability are crucial.

Strengthening relationships with existing investors and building new ones has been beneficial. Engaging with investors through site visits can help validate project potential and foster trust.

The launch of new initiatives, such as a podcast and a property developers bootcamp, has expanded outreach and provided additional resources for aspiring developers. Collaboration and leveraging team skills are essential for growth.

The construction industry has faced challenges due to economic uncertainty and market stagnation. Staying positive and proactive in building relationships and seeking opportunities is vital for navigating these conditions.

BEST MOMENTS

"2025 was a year full of challenge, uncertainty, opportunity, and growth. Today we're breaking down how it was for us and what we've learned from it."

"The bloody refinancing process has taken its toll, hasn't it? It's taken ages, hasn't it? Everything just seems to take a lot longer."

"It's a way of trying to work out how to make the site easy to build. Just because something's got planning doesn't mean it's buildable."

"One of the lessons was, try not to change the goalposts midway. It'll be a lot easier."

"If you don't reflect, you don't think of it like that, do you? Lots of homes we're building."

HOST BIOS

Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.

Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.

https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/

https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/

https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/

Book now onto our Property Developers Bootcamp

https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive