In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Michelle de Almeida — business coach, entrepreneur, and property investor. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from a 20-year career in hospitality and corporate management to building a thriving property portfolio and multiple successful businesses.
Growing up in a working-class family near Liverpool and Manchester, Michelle learned the value of hard work early on. After managing 67 pubs across Scotland for Wetherspoons and running her own restaurant in Portugal, a major health challenge led her to reassess her life and priorities. Today, she’s the founder of Lux Escapes UK and MDA Business, helping others achieve financial freedom and personal growth through property and coaching.
🎙️ Episode Highlights
🌟 From Humble Beginnings to Hospitality
Growing up in Cheshire in a working-class family
Building a strong work ethic from her parents’ example
Spending over 20 years in hospitality, including six years running a restaurant in Portugal
Managing 67 pubs as a Regional Manager for Wetherspoons before leaving corporate life
💼 Finding Purpose After Corporate Burnout
Leaving her corporate role after a health setback and lack of support
Becoming CEO of a Coca-Cola–funded non-profit in Dundee
Helping thousands of women and micro-businesses out of poverty
Transitioning naturally into business coaching and launching MDA Business
🏡 Entering the Property World
Completing property training in January and buying her first property in April
Partnering with her brother, Paul, who now manages over 40 viewings a month
Focusing on Serviced Accommodation (SA) and Aparthotels as her main strategy
Building a business model that generates high cash flow and long-term financial freedom
📈 Growth, Strategy & Challenges
Setting a goal of 200 keys (units/beds) to achieve true financial independence
Raising private capital with a minimum £100,000 investment threshold
Avoiding small Buy-to-Lets in favour of scalable, cash-flowing SA units
Overcoming one of her toughest weeks in property — losing a deal, investor, and remortgage all in one day
Navigating short-term let licensing challenges in Scotland and rising council tax costs
💬 Mindset & Motivation
Using multiple business and mindset coaches to stay focused and resilient
Managing 12–14 hour workdays with energy and purpose
Maintaining perspective through movement, conversation, and mindset work
Planning future growth in St Andrews, Crieff, Montrose, and Cheshire
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