🎙️ Property, People & a Little Bit of Magic

“I’m Derek Arden — welcome to Monday Night Live, the live and uncut podcast about negotiation and even money.”

This week’s guest was someone Derek has known (and bantered with!) for more than 20 years — the ever-energetic, endlessly insightful Simon Zutchi.

From graduate trainee at Cadbury’s to founder of a multi-million-pound property education empire, Simon’s story is one of bold decisions, personal growth, and learning to back yourself when others think you’re mad 🤯

Simon began his career on the prestigious Cadbury’s graduate scheme. Great job. Secure future. Sensible path.

He quit.

Why? Because he’d discovered property investing — and more importantly, he’d discovered freedom. Renting rooms to friends while building his portfolio, Simon replaced his salary and walked away from corporate life in 2001.

Cue raised eyebrows from bosses, friends… probably the milkman too.

But by 2003 he had fully replaced his income, and soon after launched the Property Investors Network, which grew into one of the UK’s largest property communities.

A turning point for Simon came after attending a Tony Robbins event. Firewalking included.

More importantly, he learned that success leaves clues — and that who you surround yourself with shapes your results.

That idea led him to build communities, masterminds, and training programmes that combine strategy with mindset — because knowing what to do is one thing… actually doing it is another.

As Simon said:

“Information is everywhere. Implementation is rare.”

Derek challenged Simon on today’s tougher property market — higher interest rates, tighter regulations, nervous landlords.

Simon’s take? This is exactly when opportunity appears.

Quoting Warren Buffett in spirit:

Be cautious when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.

With many landlords exiting, professional investors who understand the rules are finding strong long-term opportunities. The key message: property is no longer a hobby — it’s a professional business that rewards education and preparation.

One of the strongest themes of the evening was relationships.

Simon shared real examples of buying property ethically below market value by solving sellers’ problems — relocation, timing pressure, life changes.

The lesson?
Ask better questions. Listen deeply. Create win-win outcomes.

This applies just as much to negotiation, business, and leadership as it does to property.

Simon shared a brilliant analogy from US mastermind groups:

If you owned a million-pound racehorse, you’d feed it well, give it the best care, and protect it.

You are that racehorse.

Your health, knowledge, network and mindset determine your earning power — so investing in yourself isn’t indulgent… it’s essential.

That’s why Simon (like Derek) continues attending international events, learning from peers at organisations like the Professional Speaking Association and the National Speakers Association.

Growth never stops.

Yes, there was magic. Literal magic.

Simon demonstrated how storytelling and presentation can turn a simple trick into a powerful communication tool — even teaching restaurants how to entertain guests while explaining kitchen delays 🍝✨

The deeper message?
Whether you’re speaking, selling, or negotiating:

It’s not just what you say. It’s how you present it.

✔ Freedom comes from action, not just information
✔ Your network shapes your success
✔ Tough markets create smart opportunities
✔ Property (and business) is about people
✔ Invest in yourself like you would a prize asset
✔ Presentation and storyte