In this episode of the Grow Places Podcast, host Tom Larsson speaks with James Pellatt, founder of Digital Trees and former Director of Innovation at GPE, about the deep structural inefficiencies in real estate—and how data and technology can be the key to unlocking lasting change.

James shares the thinking behind launching Digital Trees, his pragmatic approach to innovation, and why leadership, culture, and curiosity are essential to digital transformation. Drawing from decades in the sector, he unpacks why PropTech often fails to scale, how sustainability commitments created new data burdens, and why AI’s biggest opportunity might be freeing up time for deeper human connection.

From project management to smart buildings, and from open innovation to the lessons of Kaizen at Jaguar Land Rover, James and Tom explore how real estate can stop repeating the past and start designing for the future—with purpose, precision, and empathy.

Tune in for a thought-provoking look at the intersection of technology, place, and the people behind progress.

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