Many people dream of building a property portfolio, but few have a story as remarkable as Ian Cowie’s. From struggling with drug addiction and being handed a 9-year prison sentence, to becoming a property investor, ultramarathon runner, and devoted parent, Ian’s journey is one of resilience, discipline, and relentless drive.

In the latest episode of Property Developer Show – The Podcast, Ian shares how he turned his life around and built a growing property portfolio while working full-time as a scaffolder. His story proves that with the right mindset, it’s possible to overcome any obstacle and create lasting change.

Hitting rock bottom and finding a turning point

Ian’s early life was dominated by drugs, violence, and eventually prison. Locked into a destructive cycle, it wasn’t until the COVID-19 lockdown that he truly faced his reality and made the decision to change. That turning point set him on a path of discipline, structure, and ambition.

Building a property portfolio from scratch

Despite working long days as a scaffolder, Ian committed to learning about property investment. Within just four years, he built a portfolio of 14 properties, with 10 more currently in legals. His approach combines calculated risks, consistent action, and a refusal to stay in his comfort zone.

Mindset: why comfort is the killer of growth

One of Ian’s strongest beliefs is that growth only happens when you push beyond comfort. This principle doesn’t just apply to property, it’s reflected in his achievements as an ultramarathon runner, mountain climber, and parent. He continues to test his limits, both physically and mentally, proving that discipline and mindset are the foundations of success.

Key lessons from Ian’s story

In this episode, Ian opens up about:

• His struggles with addiction and prison life
• The life-changing moment during lockdown
• How he built 14 properties in just 4 years
• Why risk and discomfort fuel progress
• The mindset strategies that keep him pushing forward

Why you should listen

This conversation is raw, inspiring, and packed with lessons for anyone interested in property development, personal growth, or resilience. Whether you’re just starting out in property or looking for motivation to keep moving forward, Ian’s journey offers powerful insights into what it really takes to succeed.

Watch the full episode on YouTube now.