Sam Black Sessions

Hosted by Sam Black

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Episodes

138

Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

Chats with the good people

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60 recent

May 31, 202615 min

Development Insight - EP 55

In this episode, Sam and Ryan unpack the key traits that separate successful property developers from the rest. They dive into the importance of vision, persistence, risk management, attention to detail, and decisiveness, sharing real-world examples from their own development journeys. From finding sites and managing consultants to navigating setbacks and making fast decisions, they discuss the mindset required to stay in the game long term. The conversation also explores the value of having a clear niche, building strong relationships, and maintaining discipline, consistency, accountability, and gratitude throughout the process. A practical episode for aspiring and experienced developers alike.

May 27, 202618 min

Development Insight - EP 54

In this episode of Development Insight, Ryan Houston and Sam Black unpack the biggest mistakes developers make when underestimating a project. From build costs blowing out, hidden site costs, and builder variations, through to delays killing profit margins and poor sales strategies hurting the backend — they break down the real risks developers face. They also dive into the importance of early contractor involvement, having the right team around you, sticking to a 20% risk margin, and why buying the site right is everything in development.

April 29, 202616 min

Money Chats Ep 44

This episode, we unpack the real side of construction finance — the wins, the risks, and where deals can fall over.We dive into:• Why valuations can make or break your project• The biggest mistake first-time developers make (going too early)• Fixed price vs cost-plus contracts — what actually works• How cost overruns happen (and why you NEED buffers)• What banks are really looking for — and why it’s not just red tape• How rising build costs are impacting feasibility right nowKey takeaway — construction finance isn’t just about getting approved… it’s about timing it right, structuring it properly, and making sure you’ve got enough buffer to get the deal to the finish line.

April 21, 202611 min

Development Insight - Ep 53

Big shifts are happening across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie — and this episode dives straight into what’s coming and what it actually means on the ground.We unpack the approved Broadmeadow masterplan (20,000+ homes, mixed-use precinct, high-rise living), the reality of high-speed rail, and how infrastructure like this could completely reshape how people live, work, and invest along the east coast.From second CBD potential to connectivity into Sydney, we break down how this isn’t just development — it’s long-term transformation.We also touch on:* Light rail expansion and what’s realistic* Major projects like Marketown and Honeysuckle* The impact of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on construction timelines* Why Newcastle is becoming one of the most liveable and investable cities in AustraliaSimple takeaway — Newcastle isn’t the same city it was 10 years ago… and it won’t be the same again in the next 10.

April 15, 202611 min

Development Insight Ep 52

In this episode, we break down how rising oil prices are quietly driving up construction costs—and what that means for property investors and developers.From massive increases in materials like PVC to higher fuel and labour costs, builds are becoming more expensive almost overnight. That pressure is flowing through to buyers, impacting housing affordability and slowing down supply at a time when it’s needed most.We also unpack the bigger picture—why developers can’t absorb these costs, how infrastructure bottlenecks are holding back thousands of new homes, and what governments may need to do to keep projects viable.On the flip side, we talk opportunity. With buyer demand starting to ease and inflation reshaping the market, this could be a window to secure quality assets before the next upswing.If you want to understand what’s really happening behind the scenes—and where the smart money is looking right now—this one’s worth a listen.

March 31, 20269 min

Money Chats - Ep 43

Sam Black is joined by Brendan Lowridge for a deep dive into what’s really happening with interest rates, inflation, and buyer sentiment right now. They unpack the RBA’s recent rate moves, why the market has shifted so quickly in just a couple of weeks, and how government spending and global conflict are feeding into the uncertainty. Brendan breaks down why modelling your repayments at different rate scenarios is the smartest thing you can do right now instead of sitting on the sidelines paralysed by fear. They also get into why construction costs aren’t coming down anytime soon, what that means for housing supply at the entry level, and why the buyers who moved during the last period of uncertainty came out on top. If you’re a first home buyer or investor wondering whether now is the right time to act, this one’s for you.

March 16, 202614 min

Development Insight Ep 51

In this episode of Development Insights, we discuss the risks and realities of engaging builders for new builds and developments, including fixed-price vs cost-plus contracts, hidden variations, and why turnkey quotes matter. We also unpack granny flat strategies, valuation risks, and how the right site selection can improve cash flow, resale value, and long-term growth. A practical conversation on avoiding costly mistakes and building smarter developments.

March 12, 202616 min

Money Chats - Ep 42

In this episode, Sam sits down with Brendan Lowbridge to unpack real-life deals where valuations nearly killed the project. From off-market purchases coming in tens of thousands under value, to properties being classed as boarding houses due to multiple leases, the conversation dives into how lender panels, valuation types, and property use can make or break formal approval.They discuss desktop vs full valuations, why non-bank lenders can struggle in regional markets, and how the right strategy, evidence, and broker guidance can turn a declined deal into an approved one.A must-listen for investors navigating finance, development, and real-world property risk.

March 12, 202615 min

Development Insight Ep 50

Subdivision sites can look like gold on paper, but not every deal stacks up. In this episode of Development Insights, Sam and Ryan break down the reality behind corner blocks, battle-axe blocks, granny flats, and small developments, and explain why feasibility is everything. They discuss when it makes sense to keep the existing house, when to knock down and rebuild, and how build costs, buyer demand, and council rules can completely change the numbers. The guys also share real project examples, joint-venture stories, and creative deal structures that show how developers are still making projects work in today’s market.

March 12, 202612 min

Development Insight - Ep 49

In this episode of Development Insights, Sam and Ryan dive into the different types of developers in today’s market and how risk appetite, strategy, and timing can completely change the way a project stacks up. From quick-turn developments to long-term land banking, they discuss why some buyers are willing to pay more, how rising prices in Newcastle are unlocking new opportunities, and the dangers of relying on over-inflated end values. The guys also talk about profit risk margins, why feasibility numbers must be realistic, and how one wrong deal can set you back years if you’re not careful with your assumptions.