In the latest episode of The Viking Chats, Base Property Specialists' very own Kristjan Byfield sat down with Ben Madden for what turned into one of the most raw, real and refreshingly human conversations we've seen in property for a while.
Sure, there was the usual banter. Yes, the infamous Spice Boys performance got a mention. And of course, the looming charity boxing match against a rapper-turned-boxer had us all chuckling. But woven between the laughs and light-hearted digs was something far more significant: a candid, vulnerable discussion about mental health, fatherhood, and what it really means to show up for your people, in business and at home.
Ben opened up about the personal experiences that shaped his views, from witnessing his mother's near-breakdown after a difficult upbringing, to the harrowing but powerful journey of supporting a young team member through a severe mental health crisis. Kristjan, in turn, shared the emotional complexity of supporting his brother-in-law through mental illness, and the quiet but critical power of just being present.
These are the conversations our industry needs more of.
For too long, the property profession has been cloaked in bravado. Long hours, hard sales, pressure to perform, and often, silence around the personal toll that takes. But as Kristjan and Ben highlighted, there's a growing shift - a new wave of agency leaders choosing compassion over competition, and authenticity over archetype.
One of the most inspiring parts of their chat was the discussion around The Boys Club - a space created for men in property to connect, share and support one another through the complexities of modern life. It's not about ego or oversharing. It's about community, understanding, and the slow dismantling of a culture where vulnerability was once seen as weakness.
For us at Base, these conversations are more than just podcast content. They're part of a wider mission to redefine what leadership, service, and success look like in London property.
Whether you're a landlord, a property investor, or just someone navigating the balancing act of work, life, and everything in between, we hope this episode reminds you that you're not alone. That it’s okay to have tough days. That asking for help isn't failure. And that there are people, groups, and yes - even estate agents - who genuinely care.
As for Ben’s big charity boxing night, he gave it everything. Facing off against a seasoned opponent, Ben fought with heart, courage and determination, raising money and awareness for the incredible work of Centrepoint. While the result didn’t go his way (and yes, he broke another rib in the process), it’s important to remember what this was really about. He stepped into that ring to support vulnerable young people facing homelessness. And that’s a win in any book. We're proud of you, Ben. Be kind to yourself, you’ve done something extraordinary.
We're here to build more than just tenancies. We're building better relationships, healthier teams, and a more human property industry.
You can listen to the full episode of The Viking Chats with Ben Madden on your preferred podcast platform. And if you, or someone you know, could benefit from The Boys Club, don’t hesitate to reach out or join the group. It’s not about grand gestures. Sometimes, just knowing someone is listening can change everything.
https://www.justgiving.com/page/ben-madden-4
