Beyond Four Walls - With Jodie Fraser

Hosted by Jodie Fraser

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110

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Jun 2026

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Beyond Four Walls delves into the dynamic world of block management in the UK, navigating the complexities of the sector, unravelling key topics, and shedding light on vital issues affecting communities and property managers. There will be conversations with experts, industry leaders, and passionate individuals talking about everything from insurance to inclusivity.

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June 8, 2026Episode 10727 min

James Roll | The DALA Group | Intrusive Surveys, Resident Trust and Smarter Solutions

In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I sit down with James Roll from The DALA Group to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing the property sector today: balancing compliance and building safety requirements with the lived experience of residents.As building safety legislation continues to evolve, managing agents, surveyors and contractors are increasingly required to undertake intrusive surveys to understand how buildings have been constructed and whether they meet current safety standards. But behind every survey is a resident whose home is being disrupted.James shares his perspective on why communication, empathy and transparency are just as important as the technical work itself. We explore how explaining what is happening, why it’s necessary and what residents can expect can make a significant difference to the overall experience.We also discuss innovation within the sector and how The DALA Group identified a common frustration when carrying out intrusive investigations and subsequent remedial works. Rather than leaving buildings with multiple visible metal access plates following inspections, they developed a bespoke vent plate solution designed to blend more sympathetically with the building’s appearance while still allowing future access where required.During the conversation we cover:• Why intrusive surveys are often necessary to understand hidden construction details• The importance of resident engagement and clear communication throughout the process• How managing agents can help residents feel informed and supported during disruptive works• The challenges of balancing safety, compliance and customer experience• The development of The DALA Group’s bespoke vent plate solution• Why aesthetics matter when carrying out building safety investigations and making good afterwards• Lessons learned from working with residents, managing agents and building owners across the UKThis episode is a reminder that whilst compliance and safety must remain the priority, the way we deliver these projects matters too. Residents deserve to understand what is happening in their homes, and thoughtful innovation can help minimise the lasting impact of necessary investigations.If you’re involved in block management, building safety, surveying or resident engagement, this is an episode not to miss.Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

May 25, 2026Episode 10626 min

Steve Evans | DALA Fire & Risk | Fire Safety in the Real World

In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Steve Evans from DALA Fire and Risk for a really honest and important conversation about where the built environment currently stands on fire safety, building safety and accountability post-Grenfell.This wasn’t about headlines or soundbites. It was about the uncomfortable realities the industry still needs to confront.We discuss whether the balance has shifted too far toward risk aversion, why competency on site still remains one of the biggest concerns across the sector and whether guidance is genuinely being interpreted in the spirit it was intended.Steve shares his thoughts on: The ongoing competency gap in construction and fire safety Why passive fire protection still matters more than many realise Whether “stay put” is still a valid strategy Smoke control systems and the reality of real-life fire conditions The challenges surrounding façade fire risk and PAS 9980 Why the “golden thread” risks becoming more paperwork instead of usable information Commercial pressure versus genuine safety culture The role of ethics, leadership and responsibility in the future of building safety We also discuss one of the biggest questions facing the industry:Are we creating genuinely safer buildings, or simply producing more documentation?This episode is essential listening for anyone working in block management, fire safety, construction, surveying, compliance or the wider built environment.A huge thank you to Steve Evans and DALA Fire and Risk for such an open and insightful discussion.The DALA Group - Integrated Fire Safety & Building ComplianceDALA Fire & Risk - The DALA GroupContact Steve on steve@dalafire.co.ukThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

May 11, 2026Episode 10543 min

Alex Tan | Creating Culture in Estate Agency

Today on Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Alex Tan, Group Sales Director at Andrews Property Group, for an honest conversation about leadership, wellbeing, collaboration and the realities of building a career in the property industry whilst balancing family life and personal growth.Known by many as The Property Mum, Alex shares her journey through estate agency, the lessons she has learned along the way, and how her leadership style has evolved throughout her career. We discuss the importance of creating positive workplace cultures, supporting teams through change, and why emotional intelligence matters more than ever in leadership positions.This episode also explores the wider property sector and the need for greater collaboration between industries, businesses and professionals. From wellbeing initiatives and mentoring, to confidence, resilience and creating opportunities for others, Alex brings warmth, honesty and practical insight to the conversation.Whether you work in property, lead a team, run a business or are simply interested in the human side of leadership, this episode is full of thoughtful discussion and relatable experiences.Topics covered include:Alex’s journey into property and leadershipBalancing career progression with motherhood and family lifeBuilding strong team culture in estate agencyWellbeing and mental health within the workplaceThe importance of collaboration across the property sectorSupporting and developing people within teamsLessons in resilience, confidence and leadershipThe future of leadership in property🎙️ Beyond Four Walls is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and YouTube.Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

April 20, 2026Episode 10448 min

Introducing The DALA Group with Dorian Lawrence and Ant Attree

📌 Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Dorian and Ant Attree, Managing Director of The DALA Group, for a really honest conversation about building safety and what’s actually happening across the sector right now.We talk about the reality behind the legislation and the increasing pressure on property managers, many of whom are now sitting at the centre of complex and evolving legal duties. Despite the volume of reports, surveys and advice being produced, there is still a lack of clarity around what actually needs to be done.We explore why fragmentation across consultants continues to create confusion, delays and unnecessary cost, and why more information doesn’t always lead to better outcomes. Instead, the focus needs to shift towards clear ownership, joined-up thinking and proportionate, evidence-led decision making.Ant shares his perspective from a delivery standpoint, highlighting the challenges clients face when they are left trying to navigate multiple reports that don’t align or provide a clear path forward. Dorian brings a broader view on how the industry can improve processes and raise standards.We also touch on PAS 9980, the risks of over-specification, and why funding should be considered from the outset rather than as an afterthought.A consistent theme throughout this episode is simple: the industry isn’t short of regulation, it’s short of clarity in how it’s applied.🎧 What We Cover Pressure on property managers Lack of clarity in building safety Fragmentation across consultants Proportionate, evidence-led decisions Funding as a strategic driver The shift from advice to accountabilityThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

April 13, 2026Episode 10346 min

Greg Elliot | 30 Seconds Group | Seeing Both Sides - From Leaseholder to Industry Insider

In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Greg Elliot from 30Seconds Group.Greg works closely with managing agents across the UK, focusing on resident engagement and communication Having experienced life as a leaseholder himself, Greg brings a perspective that not everyone in the industry has — the view from the other side. Together, we talk about the disconnect that so often exists between leaseholders and managing agents, and why it can feel so difficult to bridge.We discuss the role of legislation, the pressure of compliance, and the challenge of communicating decisions that aren’t always fully understood. We also explore why, despite both sides having their own representative bodies, there’s still very little alignment when it comes to priorities and expectations.Greg also shares a more personal side of his story, opening up about why endometriosis is a topic close to him. It’s a reminder that behind every role, every email, and every decision, there are real people — often carrying far more than we can 🎧 What we cover:Life as both a leaseholder and an industry professionalWhy the disconnect between leaseholders and managing agents existsThe impact of legislation and compliance on communicationWhat good resident engagement actually looks likeThe role of technology in supporting communicationMental health, invisible challenges, and the importance of understandinghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gregelliot?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ioshttps://www.30secondsgroup.com/Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

April 9, 2026Episode 330 min

Building Resilience | Special Educational Episode | With Shelley Jacobs

In this conversation, Jodie Fraser and Shelley explore the mindset that builds real resilience — not the social media version. They talk about managing stress, recognising burnout, and the difference between toxic positivity and authentic growth. The discussion highlights how leadership, kindness, and emotional awareness form the foundation of strong mental health and sustainable success.TakeawaysResilience is about bouncing back and adapting through challenges.Vulnerability in leadership builds deeper trust and stronger teams.Toxic positivity prevents genuine connection and healing.Recognising stress and burnout early is essential for recovery.Life experiences shape our ability to stay resilient over time.Supportive workplace cultures enhance wellbeing and performance.Being kind and authentic to others improves personal fulfilment.Self-care, diet, and hydration are crucial to sustaining resilience.You don’t have to connect with everyone — focus on your core people.True resilience is built by embracing imperfections and learning from setbacks.Keywordsresilience, mental health, leadership, vulnerability, stress management, workplace culture, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, support systems, personal development, authenticity, self-care, kindness, burnout preventionChapters00:00 – Introduction: Why resilience matters 06:18 – Defining real resilience 14:42 – Burnout, boundaries, and emotional honesty 21:57 – Toxic positivity vs. genuine optimism 28:20 – The link between resilience and authenticity 33:40 – How leaders can foster supportive cultures 41:15 – Final reflections: growth through vulnerabilityThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

April 2, 2026Episode 242 min

Time Management | Special Educational Episode | With Shelley Jacobs

In this episode, Jodie Fraser and Shelley unpack the idea of time freedom — how to reclaim control of your schedule, energy, and focus. They challenge productivity myths, share practical strategies for delegation and communication, and explore how small mindset shifts can transform your relationship with time. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most.TakeawaysTime freedom comes from alignment, not control.Being busy doesn’t mean being productive.Perfectionism fuels procrastination and wasted effort.Delegation empowers both teams and leaders.Understanding your energy cycles boosts focus and output.Strategic communication reduces unnecessary noise and stress.Time blocking helps structure your day for efficiency.Boundaries prevent burnout and improve decision-making.Reflection helps identify patterns in productivity.Sustainable success depends on balance and prioritisation.Chapters00:00 – Introduction: What is time freedom? 05:43 – The myth of productivity culture 12:28 – Understanding your energy peaks 19:10 – The role of communication in time management 25:34 – Breaking free from perfectionism 33:15 – Time blocking and prioritisation 39:48 – Delegation as a leadership skill 46:12 – Preventing burnout through better boundaries 52:40 – Reflection and closing insightsKeywordstime management, productivity, burnout, delegation, procrastination, perfectionism, communication, boundaries, self-awareness, energy management, leadership, focus, work-life balance, wellbeingThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

March 30, 2026Episode 10232 min

Darren Emedo | What Clients Really Want (And Why We Sometimes Miss It)

In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, I’m joined by Darren Emedo for a conversation that goes far beyond the day-to-day of property management.We talk a lot in this industry about service, value and retention — but rarely do we stop and ask what actually makes people stay? Darren brings a fresh (and honest) perspective on what sits underneath it all: trust, communication and human behaviour.This is one of those conversations that will feel very familiar if you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking “they weren’t even listening” — or found yourself trying to explain something logical to someone who’s already emotionally checked out.We explore why that happens, what we can do differently as leaders, and how shifting our approach can completely change the outcome of difficult conversations.💭 What We CoverWhy retention isn’t about price — and never really has beenWhat trust-based retention actually looks like in practiceThe moment communication breaks down (and how to spot it early)Why logic doesn’t land when emotion takes overHow to handle difficult or “triggered” clients with confidenceThe difference between managing people and truly leading themCreating a culture where feedback isn’t fearedPractical ways to improve stakeholder communication in propertyLessons from Darren’s own journey and experiences🔑 Key TakeawayIf there’s one thing to take from this episode, it’s this:People don’t stay because everything is perfect — they stay because they trust you when it’s not.And that trust is built long before the difficult conversations happen.🎧 Why This Episode MattersFor anyone working in block or estate management, this episode is a reminder that technical knowledge will only take you so far.How you communicate.How you show up under pressure.How you make people feel.That’s where the real work — and the real impact — happens.https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-emedo-11b75510b?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_iosThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

March 26, 2026Episode 154 min

Neurodiversity in the Workplace | Special Educational Episode | Shelley Jacobs & Rob Curtis

In this compelling episode, Jodie Fraser, Shelley Jacobs, and Rob Curtis have an open conversation about neurodiversity in the workplace — exploring what it means to think differently, lead inclusively, and unmask without fear. Through their personal stories and insights, they highlight the challenges of traditional workplaces and how leaders can create spaces that embrace every kind of mind. It’s a powerful reflection on empathy, understanding, and progress.TakeawaysNeurodiversity includes ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other forms of diverse thinking.“Masking” can cause exhaustion and disconnect at work.Leaders must create environments where people feel psychologically safe.Understanding neurodiverse strengths leads to innovation and better teams.Flexibility in work styles fosters inclusion and productivity.Open conversations break stigma and normalise difference.Empathy and awareness create stronger leadership cultures.Diversity of thought drives creativity and better decision-making.Inclusion isn’t a policy — it’s a practice.Neurodiversity benefits everyone when workplaces adapt.Chapters00:00 – Introduction: What neurodiversity really means 07:22 – Personal experiences with masking and identity 14:10 – How neurodiversity shows up at work 21:08 – The role of leadership in creating safety 28:44 – Breaking the stigma and normalising difference 34:52 – Inclusion as action, not policy 38:16 – Closing reflectionsKeywordsneurodiversity, inclusion, ADHD, autism, masking, leadership, emotional intelligence, workplace culture, empathy, self-awareness, mental health, psychological safety, creativity, team dynamics, communicationThank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...

March 16, 2026Episode 10151 min

Brad Burton | Visibility, Vulnerability and Very Public Battles

In this powerful and very real conversation, I sit down with Brad Burton - one of the UK’s most recognisable motivational business speakers - to talk about what success really costs, and what resilience actually looks like when life hits hard.Brad’s story is one of reinvention. Raised on a council estate in Salford, leaving school with no qualifications, years on benefits and £25,000 in personal debt, he could easily have stayed stuck. Instead, he built one of the UK’s largest joined-up business networking communities, stepped onto some of the country’s biggest stages, and carved out a career built on honesty, energy and lived experience.But this episode goes far deeper than business success.We talk openly about the realities of visibility in the digital age — the opportunities social media creates, but also the very real risks that come with it. Brad shares his experience of prolonged online harassment and stalking, the devastating impact it had on his mental health, family and reputation, and how he found the strength to keep going when everything felt under threat.This isn’t a conversation about motivation quotes and highlight reels. It’s about grit. It’s about rebuilding. It’s about deciding who you are when other people try to define you.We also explore:How Brad went from pizza delivery driver to national speakerThe moment he realised he had to change his lifeWhat most people misunderstand about “motivation”The boundaries every business owner needs onlineHow to rebuild confidence after reputational attackWhy decisions, not circumstances, shape your trajectoryThe man behind the stage personaIf you’ve ever felt exposed, criticised, stuck or questioned your path, this episode will resonate.Because beyond the loud shirts and big energy is a very human story — one of survival, responsibility and choosing to move forward anyway.Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.Please follow me at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-four-walls-the-podcast-with-jodie-fraser/https://www.instagram.com/beyond_four_walls_the_podcast_?igsh=MWQ1MDU4dG5pdmFhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.instagram.com/the_jodie_fraser?igsh=aWZ5czFtdHBndXln&utm_source=qr...