Keeping it Real Podcast • Chicago REALTORS ® • Interviews With Real Estate Brokers and Agents

Gwen Snyder shares how she’s built more than $500 million in sales without relying on cold calls. Instead, she reveals why authentic relationships, exceptional client service, and becoming genuinely “referable” have been the foundation of her business. Gwen also explains her proven systems for earning repeat business, marketing luxury listings, and staying top of mind, while opening up about the personal challenges that shaped her resilience and mindset as an entrepreneur. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Gwen Snyder can be reached at 303.718.1085. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Learn With A Lender with Austin Clarence. In this episode, Austin breaks down the lending strategies agents can use to help homeowners move without giving up the low mortgage rates they locked in years ago. Next, Austin explains how turning a current home into a rental, using bridge loans, HELOCs, and tapping into home equity can create new opportunities to purchase a next home or start building an investment portfolio. Austin also shares how AI is streamlining the lending process, particularly for HELOCs and other equity-based products, and why agents should stay in touch with past clients instead of assuming their options are limited. Subscribe to Austin's newsletter by sending an email to aclarence@nexalending.com. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Austin Clarence can be reached at +1 650-906-2376 and aclarence@nexalending.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Sam Burke, 2026 NAR 30 Under 30 honoree, shares how he built a top-producing real estate business before turning 30 through disciplined systems, relentless prospecting, and a relationship-first mindset. Sam reveals the daily habits, cold-calling strategies, and client experience that helped him stand out early in his career, while also explaining how he built his own real estate investment portfolio along the way. He also dives into his YouTube and social media strategy, showing why creating lifestyle-focused content and optimizing for AI search is becoming a major competitive advantage for today’s agents. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sam Burke can be reached at samburke@johnlscott.com and (425) 210-4332. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In our August episode, Carrie McCormick shares how AI is transforming the way buyers search for homes, how agents build their brands, and why hyper-local expertise has never been more valuable. Carrie also explains why today’s buyers are shopping for a lifestyle rather than just square footage, and why the agents who embrace content creation, education, and trusted relationships will thrive in the AI era. Plus, Carrie shares five bold predictions for how AI will reshape real estate over the coming year. Please follow Carrie on Instagram. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Carrie can be reached at carrie@atproperties.com or by phone at 312.961.4612. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Vija Williams explains why AI isn’t replacing great real estate agents but it’s redefining their role. Vija shares how today’s consumers research home values, cash offers, and market data long before speaking with an agent, making it more important than ever for agents to become trusted advisors and problem solvers. Vija also breaks down how cash offer leads and iBuyer partnerships can create a powerful new seller lead source while helping agents win more listings. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Vija Williams can be reached at vija@vija.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In this episode Real Estate Video Coach Kim Rittberg breaks down how real estate agents can leverage both long-form and short-form video, plus her “2C’s” framework by sharing personal summer moments and powerful client wins. Kim also describes how to turn your downtime into content that builds trust, showcases your expertise, and keeps you top of mind with your sphere. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Sign up for Kim's “5 Videos Every Real Estate Agent Must Make to Sell More Homes“. Enroll for Kim’s 7-Day Challenge to Be On-Camera or Kim’s Real Estate Video Kickstart! Follow Kim on Instagram. Subscribe to Kim on YouTube. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Kelsey Caputo 30 under 30 honoree – class of 2026 breaks down how AI is transforming real estate without replacing great agents. Next, Kelsey explains why niche, local expertise still beats generic AI valuations especially around boating access, seawalls, zoning, and short-term rental rules in a complex second-home market. Kelsey also shares how she uses AI to prep for appointments, anticipate objections, build ideal buyer profiles, and target ultra high net worth clients more precisely. Last, Kelsey dives into trust-based luxury relationships, lifestyle-matching for second homes, and the power of saying “I don't know, I'll find out” in a high-stakes market. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Kelsey Caputo can be reached at kelsey@keysrealestate.com and (305) 363-9998. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with D.J.” Nearly one in seven home sales falls apart after going under contract, but what if the difference between closing and canceling comes down to how you communicate? In this episode of Coffee Talks, D.J. breaks down why so many deals fail during escrow and share a simple three-step system to keep buyers confident, reduce fall-throughs, and turn signed contracts into successful closings. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Welcome to our series Better Your Business With Ben. In this episode Ben Lalez dives into why most real estate agents are losing deals not to the market, but to silence, those three-day gaps where clients hear nothing. DJ and Ben break down a simple, daily follow-up rhythm that keeps buyers and sellers feeling supported from first contact through years after closing, turning databases into real volume. They also explore how AI is changing real estate, where it genuinely helps (speed, efficiency, systems) versus where it falls short (emotional intelligence, trust, accountability). Please follow Ben on Instagram and TikTok. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Ben Lalez can be reached at 312.789.4054 and ben.lalez@compass.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to another episode of YouTube Lab with Sarah Maslowski. In this episode, Sarah breaks down proven strategies for creating click-worthy titles, designing high-performing thumbnails, and building a streamlined workflow that saves time while maximizing views. Sarah also shows you how to batch-create photo assets, leverage AI, and know when to outsource so every video has the best chance to reach the right audience. Sarah provides practical tips can help you stand out in a crowded feed whether you’re just starting on YouTube or looking to grow your real estate channel. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sarah Maslowski can be reached at hello@keypointhomesgroup.com and +1(470) 577-6472. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Learn With A Lender with Austin Clarence. In this episode, Austin discusses how global events, inflation, and shifting oil prices are influencing mortgage rates and what that could mean for buyers and agents in the months ahead. Austin explains the latest Fed outlook – why home values continue to appreciate despite higher rates, and how to help clients focus on long-term wealth instead of short-term rate fluctuations. Last, Austin focuses on powerful loan programs for doctors, first responders, veterans, and self-employed buyers, showing how the right financing strategy can open doors that many people don’t realize are available. Subscribe to Austin's newsletter by sending an email to aclarence@nexalending.com. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Austin Clarence can be reached at +1 650-906-2376 and aclarence@nexalending.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, D.J. explores why repeat and referral business should become the foundation of a thriving real estate career, and why so many agents unintentionally leave those opportunities behind. D.J. discusses the simple “Dig” system for organizing your past clients, creating meaningful, value-driven follow-ups, and building relationships that generate referrals for years to come. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Welcome to our monthly feature Unpopular Real Estate Opinions with Chris Linsell. In this episode Chris and DJ unpack the proposed 21st Century Road to Housing Act, exploring how it could boost housing supply, improve affordability, and why its delay has become a major issue for the real estate industry. They also examine the growing influence of institutional investors, the challenges of inventory shortages, and how streamlining permitting could accelerate new home construction. Finally, Chris discusses how AI is reshaping home search, what that means for platforms like Zillow, and why the most successful agents of the future will be those who position themselves as trusted lifestyle advisors and expert problem-solvers. Please check Chris' profile on LinkedIn. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Valerie Fitzgerald shares her journey from arriving in Los Angeles as a single mom with a three-month-old baby and no connections to building one of the country’s top luxury real estate businesses. Valerie also reveals how she’s adapted to today’s AI-driven market through content, SEO, and relationship-focused marketing, while sharing a practical roadmap for new agents looking to succeed in 2026. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Valerie Fitzgerald can be reached at 310.285.7515. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Zach Geisendorfer returns to share the exact systems behind his “mega open house” strategy and how it consistently fills his pipeline with qualified clients. He and DJ break down how Fam Real Estate scaled too fast, hit a breaking point, then rebuilt with bulletproof onboarding, Fam Camp, and clear production standards. Zach also reveals his SOI playbook, pricing framework that turns listings into bidding wars, and a 10-day-close offer strategy that wins in multiple-offer situations. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Zach Geisendorfer can be reached at +1(760) 205-0719 and zach@famrealtygroup.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Julia Hurley shares her 90-day reset playbook for agents whose business has cratered. She walks through exactly how she rebuilt after being voted out of a national brokerage partnership, including her systems for re-engaging past clients, reviving a dry pipeline, and turning open houses plus door knocking into consistent deals. Julia also opens up about managing “baggage” from politics and online reputation, and why offering real value to top producers and high-achievers is the fastest way to accelerate your own growth. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Julia Hurley can be reached here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to The Inner Game of Real Estate Success with high-performance hypnotherapist and mindset coach Paul Salter. In this episode, Paul breaks down one of the most common yet invisible patterns driving ambitious real estate agents, entrepreneurs, executives, and high performers: the need to prove themselves. He explores how a deep-seated desire to gain approval, earn acceptance, prove someone wrong, or finally feel “good enough” can quietly become the fuel source behind extraordinary achievement—and why that same fuel often leads to anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, emotional exhaustion, and an inability to enjoy success. You’ll learn how to identify whether you’re operating from “prove it” energy, why no amount of external achievement can resolve an internal worthiness wound, and how to shift from building success as validation to pursuing it from a place of purpose, fulfillment, and genuine freedom. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Schedule a high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching session with Paul here. Learn more about mindset and performance coaching for real estate agents here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Julia built a $14 million real estate business without a marketing plan or consistent social media strategy. Her success has always come from relationships, but she knows she’s capable of much more. In this episode of Breakthrough with Michael, Julia uncovers what’s really keeping her stuck: a lack of focus, resistance to structure, and the challenge of turning natural talent into a scalable business. No marketing hacks. Just an honest coaching conversation about finding clarity, building better habits, and stepping into the next level of success.n natural talent into intentional, scalable success. Ready to break through what's holding you back? Apply now for your chance to be coached live on the show. Spots are limited to just one agent per month, so don't wait – apply today. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sign up for a personal breakthrough session with Michael Opyd here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, Tim and D.J. reveal why TikTok is the “empty stage” where 100 million people show up daily but only 15% of real estate agents bother to step on it. They break down three simple moves of the “Empty Stage Method” and along the way, they crush the myth that “my clients aren't on TikTok” showing how even short, unpolished videos can quietly build powerful local authority. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Welcome to another episode of YouTube Lab with Sarah Maslowski. In this episode, Sarah dives into her full lead conversion system for YouTube-generated real estate clients, moving beyond views and inquiries to signed contracts. She explains how Zoom or Google Meet consultations correct the imbalance between informed buyers and uninformed agents, while naturally filtering out less serious leads. Sarah also shares how AI note takers elevate virtual consults and outlines key red flags to help agents protect their time and focus on true buyers. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sarah Maslowski can be reached at hello@keypointhomesgroup.com and +1(470) 577-6472. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In our June episode, Carrie McCormick explores how AI-generated wealth is transforming luxury real estate, fueling a new wave of young, all-cash buyers focused on lifestyle over size. Carrie and DJ discuss wellness-driven homes, smart technology, and turnkey design to cutting-edge tech like circadian lighting. They also spotlight Chicago as an underrated value play for high-end buyers and dig into how AI search, digital branding, and human skills like kindness, responsiveness, and strong agent relationships are becoming true differentiators. Please follow Carrie on Instagram. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Carrie can be reached at carrie@atproperties.com or by phone at 312.961.4612. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Learn With A Lender with Austin Clarence. In this episode, Austin talks about a major change in the lending world – how Credit Karma's VantageScore can now be used by certain lenders, and why it often beats traditional FICO scores. Austin explains the key differences between FICO and VantageScore, how agents can leverage Credit Karma with their buyers, and why focusing on monthly payment (not just rate) is critical in today's 6%+ rate environment. Austin also shares new loan options for self-employed borrowers and highlights a big, often overlooked opportunity with older buyers who are sitting on equity and inheritance-driven cash. Subscribe to Austin's newsletter by sending an email to aclarence@nexalending.com. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Austin Clarence can be reached at +1 650-906-2376 and aclarence@nexalending.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Natalie Taflinger returns to share how she's thriving in a shifting market by refusing to rush listings and having honest, data-backed conversations with sellers. She breaks down her pre-listing process, from low-hanging “bang for your buck” improvements to using comps and market feedback to guide pricing. Natalie also explains how community involvement and genuine relationships fuel her referral-based business, without heavy outbound marketing. Last, Natalie dives into her real-world marketing playbook, from Zillow Showcase to strategic touchpoints and buyer binders, that keeps clients coming back years later. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Natalie Taflinger can be reached at natalietaf@icloud.com and 843-773-1728. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, Tim and D.J. unpack why the median home in 2024 sold in three weeks, and what happens to the listings that drift past that “three-week wall.” They reveal the three biggest culprits behind price cuts and DJ introduces the “Three-Weekend System” to give every listing a clear job each weekend and prevent slow, painful price reductions.  If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Welcome to our series Better Your Business With Ben. In this episode, Ben and DJ break down the growing battle between Zillow, Compass, and the MLS over listing control, private exclusives, and what it means for agents and consumers. They discuss why major industry players may not truly be advocating for agents, and how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are rapidly changing lead generation, search, and the future role of real estate professionals. Ben also shares how his AI-powered platform OfferShield uses transaction data and predictive modeling to reduce deal cancellations and strengthen buyer offers. Last, the conversation dives into practical AI workflows for content creation, automation, financial analysis, and staying ahead in an industry being reshaped by technology. Please follow Ben on Instagram and TikTok. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Ben Lalez can be reached at 312.789.4054 and ben.lalez@compass.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to The Inner Game of Real Estate Success with high-performance hypnotherapist and mindset coach Paul Salter. In this episode, Paul breaks down why so many ambitious real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and high performers begin to feel overwhelmed, unclear, and disconnected – even while their business appears to be thriving on the outside. Using a powerful GPS metaphor, he explores what really happens when high achievers drift off track: saying yes too often, abandoning the fundamentals of self-care, operating from urgency and anxiety, and trying to solve internal misalignment with more movement and more work. You'll learn why getting off track is a normal part of growth, how success itself can quietly pull you away from the routines and boundaries that once kept you grounded, and why the path back to clarity, control, and fulfillment isn't found in doing more – but in returning to the fundamentals that made you effective in the first place. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Schedule a high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching session with Paul here. Learn more about mindset and performance coaching for real estate agents here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Unpopular Real Estate Opinions with Chris Linsell. In this episode Chris breaks down why most agents are invisible to AI and introduce the concept of citation density, becoming the obvious answer across multiple platforms, from .gov/.edu sites to reviews, news, and social. They share specific strategies for agents to create question-driven content, earn high-value citations, and shift from basic AI prompting to AI publishing that actually gets surfaced by models like ChatGPT and Gemini. DJ and Chris also unpack the implications of the RE/MAX and Real acquisition, what accelerating consolidation means for agent mobility and leverage, and why building a strong, independent personal brand and AI voice guide is now essential to stay relevant and differentiated in the years ahead. Please check Chris' profile on LinkedIn. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to another episode of YouTube Lab with Sarah Maslowski. In this episode, Sarah sits down with Northern Michigan agent and coach Gino D'Angelo to discuss how he built a thriving real estate business through YouTube in a small resort market. Gino shares his journey from spending heavily on Zillow leads to generating consistent, high-quality inbound clients from simple, affordable video content. They break down his first 90 days on YouTube, the evolution of his setup, and why small-market agents actually have a powerful advantage. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sarah Maslowski can be reached at hello@keypointhomesgroup.com and +1(470) 577-6472. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, Tim and D.J. break down why 72% of buyers are now finding homes on their own and how the “MLS trap” is quietly eroding the value of buyer's agents. They introduce the Four Doors System (expired/withdrawn listings, FSBOs, hyper-specific handwritten letters, and agent-to-agent networking) to create a parallel market of off-MLS opportunities. By investing just about 90 minutes a week, agents can keep buyers from drifting, uncover hidden inventory, and add an extra closing per month in low-inventory markets. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Emma closed over $6 million her first year as a real estate agent. Then her grandfather died, and everything she had built started to feel impossible. She arrived at this conversation burned out, stuck in negative self-talk, and unsure if she could become the agent she used to be. In the debut episode of Breakthrough with Michael, Emma uncovers what has actually been weighing on her, where her drive went, and how her grandfather’s memory fits into the work she does now. No scripts. No lead generation tactics. A conversation about what’s underneath the numbers when an agent loses their footing. Ready to break through what's holding you back? Apply now for your chance to be coached live on the show. Spots are limited to just one agent per month, so don't wait – apply today. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sign up for a personal breakthrough session with Michael Opyd here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Learn With A Lender with Austin Clarence. In this episode, Austin breaks down the upcoming Federal Reserve leadership change and what it could mean for interest rates and market volatility. Austin unpacks the often-misunderstood relationship between Fed policy and mortgage rates, while diving into practical strategies investors are using in today's market, including DSCR loans, LLC structuring, and creative rate buydowns. Next, Austin explores how to find and build relationships with real estate investor clients through platforms like BiggerPockets and networking with financial professionals. Last, Austin covers powerful tax strategies such as depreciation and cost segregation, and how investors are continuing to scale rental portfolios even in a higher-rate environment. Subscribe to Austin's newsletter by sending an email to aclarence@nexalending.com. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Austin Clarence can be reached at +1 650-906-2376 and aclarence@nexalending.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Kristy Nakamura shares how she built a relationship and referral-based business, with a special focus on serving military families and multi-generational households in Hawaii. Kristy breaks down how she uses VA loans, seller credits, and strategic structuring to help clients build long-term wealth through real estate, even in a high-cost market. Kristy also reveals how she and her husband Austin divide roles in their husband-and-wife team and leverage AI to scale marketing, CMAs, and daily operations. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Kristy Nakamura can be reached at (808) 829-6819 and kristy@kahomegroup.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Bella Chaffey Lakic talks about how she built a thriving business after starting in real estate at just 22. Bella explains why the traditional “work your sphere” advice didn't fit her early 20s clientele and how she pivoted by leaning hard into YouTube and evergreen video content. She breaks down her weekly content cadence, the types of videos that consistently generate leads (especially neighborhood tours and relocation content), and why compelling hooks matter more than fancy gear. Bella also discusses shifting buyer demographics, older, equity-rich buyers dominating the market, and what that means for agents' marketing strategies. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Bella Chaffey Lakic can be reached at (425) 922-9499 and bella@bellachaffeyrealestate.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, Tim and DJ uncover why most real estate agents are still marketing to a buyer who effectively no longer exists. With the median American homebuyer now age 59, DJ and Tim break down fresh NAR data showing how Boomers dominate both the buy and sell sides of today's market. They discuss why agent’s first-time buyer playbook is costing them opportunities and how to execute the “equity shift” with content, referrals, listing presentations, and their own sphere.  If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Welcome to The Inner Game of Real Estate Success with high-performance hypnotherapist and mindset coach Paul Salter. In this episode, Paul breaks down why so many ambitious real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and high achievers stay stuck despite working harder than ever. He explores the hidden trap of the Grinder Identity – when being the one who outworks everyone becomes a badge of honor, but quietly blocks scale, peace, income growth, and next-level success. You'll learn how busyness can become a socially rewarded form of avoidance, why more effort often stops producing meaningful returns, and how this pattern impacts leadership, decision-making, and fulfillment. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Schedule a high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching session with Paul here. Learn more about mindset and performance coaching for real estate agents here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Real estate video coach Kim Rittberg breaks down how agents can use short-form video and AI tools to attract more clients and boost engagement on social media. Kim shares practical tips on repurposing home tour content, turning client questions into videos, and optimizing your online presence for searchability. Kim describes how to showcase not just your listings, but yourself – and stay top of mind in your market. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Apply for Kim’s Video Boot Camp where in just 4 days you’ll be the “go-to agent” through video! DM Kim for info! Sign up for Kim's “5 Videos Every Real Estate Agent Must Make to Sell More Homes“. Follow Kim on Instagram and LinkedIn. Subscribe to Kim on YouTube. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In this episode of Coffee Talks, Tim and DJ dive into the “silent referral killer” affecting real estate agents: weak or non-existent Google Business profiles. They explain how most clients now Google an agent before calling, and how poor ratings, few or outdated reviews, or ghost listings can quietly cost agents thousands of dollars in lost referrals every year. DJ and Tim introduce a simple three-step “Google gut check” framework: self search, profile patch, and systematic review requests, to transform an agent's online presence into a trust-building digital storefront. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

In this announcement episode D.J. Paris talks about his live event called “You Don’t Need More Leads – You Need AI” on Tuesday, May 19 at 7:00 PM CST. You know at least 200 people. Most of them already know you. Most of them have completely forgotten you sell real estate. Your next client is probably in that list. They just need a reason to think of you again. This live masterclass shows you 5 AI strategies to turn the relationships you already have into real conversations, real referrals, and real transactions. No prospecting. No new lead source. Nothing you can’t start using tonight. Enroll to “You Don’t Need More Leads – You Need AI” for free using the promo code REAL here.

Danny Brown shares how playing the long game, giving honest advice, and protecting your reputation can build a top‑tier business. He explains why relationships with other agents are as critical as client relationships, especially in ultra‑competitive, high‑net‑worth markets. Danny also breaks down his lean, “anti‑team” model, the costly mistakes he's learned from, and how documentation and buyer agreements protect agents. Last, Danny offers practical strategies for moving upmarket and adopting a sports‑style mindset of focusing on controllables and leaning into the hard work that compounds over time. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Danny Brown can be reached at (310) 901-7405 and dbrown@compass.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

We are thrilled to announce our newest monthly segment “Breakthrough with Michael” with Michael Opyd. Mike Opyd brings hard-earned experience to the table, having started in 2009 during the Great Recession with just $2,000 and no safety net, eventually building a $200M brokerage and becoming a top producer in Chicago. Now a full-time coach, he specializes in helping agents at every level break through plateaus with real-world strategies rooted in his own journey. In this segment, one agent gets coached live on the podcast, no scripts, no filters, walking in with a challenge and leaving with a clear, actionable plan. It's a raw, honest look at the conversations agents need but rarely get to have, with thousands of listeners learning alongside them. Ready to break through what's holding you back? Apply now for your chance to be coached live on the show. Spots are limited to just one agent per month, so don't wait – apply today. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In our April episode, Carrie McCormick shares how a celebrity client found her through ChatGPT and how simply answering her phone turned into a $9.5M listing opportunity. She then walks listeners through a high-stakes $6M deal where a buyer got cold feet, revealing the strategy, empathy, and communication she used to save the transaction. This episode gives practical lessons on managing client psychology, balancing multiple buyers, and treating every deal like it's the most important one of your career. Please follow Carrie on Instagram. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Carrie can be reached at carrie@atproperties.com or by phone at 312.961.4612. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our series Better Your Business With Ben. In this episode Ben Lalez break down what's really driving his team's impressive Q1 production and growth. Ben dives into the power of consistency and the idea of getting just 1% better every day in core real estate skills. Ben also shares hard-won lessons from creating thousands of social media videos, including how to hook viewers in the first three seconds and keep them watching on Instagram and TikTok. Last, Ben explores the long-term, evergreen value of YouTube content, and wrap with mindset advice on pushing through discomfort, experimenting with content, and letting the data tell you when your content needs to improve. Please follow Ben on Instagram and TikTok. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Ben Lalez can be reached at 312.789.4054 and ben.lalez@compass.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to another episode of YouTube Lab with Sarah Maslowski. In this episode, Sarah pulls back the curtain on what the first 12 months of YouTube really look like for real estate agents. Sarah shares her own early numbers, the emotional roller coaster of low views, and the pivotal moment when a single relocation buyer call changed everything. Next, Sarah shares why views and subscribers are “vanity metrics,” what to actually measure instead, and how to think about YouTube as a long-term lead generation system rather than a quick win. Last, Sarah breaks down the most common channel-killing mistakes agents make and how to fix them so you can start attracting serious relocation clients. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sarah Maslowski can be reached at hello@keypointhomesgroup.com and +1(470) 577-6472. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Learn With A Lender with Austin Clarence. In this episode, Austin and D.J. discuss the new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rules that will push condo HOAs to increase reserve funds from 10% to 15% and what that means. Next, they discuss how real estate agents can turn these changes into opportunities by educating condo owners and HOA boards, positioning themselves as trusted experts. Austin also explains how bridge loans and HELOCs let homeowners tap into their equity to buy before they sell, and how to navigate today's higher-rate environment shaped by global conflicts, inflation, and oil prices. Subscribe to Austin's newsletter by sending an email to aclarence@nexalending.com. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Austin Clarence can be reached at +1 650-906-2376 and aclarence@nexalending.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our newest series “Coffee Talks with Tim and D.J.” In the first episode of Coffee Talks, explores the striking disconnect between what real estate clients say and what they actually do, while 88% say they would reuse their agent, only around 12–15% end up doing so. Tim and D.J. unpack why this happens, focusing on the brutal reality that 91% of agents go dark after closing and rely on randomness instead of a real follow-up system. They break down the simple but powerful “4-4 System” to stay top of mind with past clients through quarterly, human, and value-driven touches offering practical scripts and a clear structure to turn past clients into repeat and referral business, instead of watching them drift to the next agent they find online. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Debbie De Grote shares how she went from closing her first deal at 18 to coaching top agents across North America. Debbie and DJ dig into why custom coaching beats cookie‑cutter programs, how to view coaching as a business investment (even if you can't afford it yet). They also break down how the NAR settlement changed buyer conversations around commissions and why prepared agents are actually winning more now. Last, Debbie shares a simple self‑diagnostic exercise to help you identify where you're stuck and what to do next. Debbie offers her Negotiations Course for free for Keeping It Real Podcast listeners here. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Debbie De Grote can be reached here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In this episode Real Estate Video Coach Kim Rittberg talks about how not to be “cringey” on camera. Kim explains that the better we are on camera the more people will build that connection/trust with us through social media. Next Kim discusses how to own who you are in a more comfortable way? Last, Kim walks you though her PATCH method and explains it. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Get on camera with Kim’s Real Estate Video Kickstart – training program and on-camera challenge. Sign up for Kim's “5 Videos Every Real Estate Agent Must Make to Sell More Homes“. Follow Kim on Instagram. Subscribe to Kim on YouTube. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In this announcement episode D.J. Paris talks about his live event called “You're Doing A.I. 100% Wrong” on Tuesday, April 7th at 12:00PM CST. In this webinar D.J. will show you how to compete with veterans using new tools available now. These methods will be handing back to you 19 hours per week all the while helping you maintain relationships. D.J. will also share 5 strategies on leveraging A.I. tools to bring your business to the next level. Enroll to “You're Doing AI 100% Wrong” for free using the promo code REAL here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io. 

Welcome to The Inner Game of Real Estate Success with high-performance hypnotherapist and mindset coach Paul Salter. In this episode, Paul breaks down the hidden cost of a lack of structure – and how letting emotions drive your day quietly drains energy, fragments focus, and holds real estate professionals back from consistent execution, confident decisions, and peak performance. You'll learn why inconsistency isn't a discipline problem, but a structural one rooted in emotional decision-making. Paul also explains how anxiety, fear, and overwhelm hijack your attention, increase cognitive load, and pull you toward short-term relief – creating a dangerous gap between the results you want and the actions you actually take. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Schedule a high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching session with Paul here. Learn more about mindset and performance coaching for real estate agents here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to another episode of YouTube Lab with Sarah Maslowski. In this episode, Sarah breaks down a real YouTube lead that turned into a closed deal. You'll hear exactly which video the client watched, how they reached out, and what the first conversation looked like. Sarah also walks you through how the lead was handled step-by-step, from initial contact to closing, and highlight the key moments that made the difference. Additionally, Sarah covers the common mistakes agents make with YouTube leads and how to avoid losing opportunities that are already in your inbox. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Sarah Maslowski can be reached at hello@keypointhomesgroup.com and +1(470) 577-6472. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Mark Gordon shares how he entered the business at the worst possible time, in 2008, after serving on the Vail Town Council and even negotiating a $300M development while working a $15/hour ski job. Mark explains why he left Sotheby's to run a focused boutique brokerage, and how deep community involvement fuels his business in a small resort market. The conversation also dives into how Mark uses AI as a tool, not a threat, to create better CMAs and searches, and why his work with NAR, CAR, and local associations is critical to protecting homeowners, property rights, and the future of the industry. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Mark Gordon can be reached at (970) 331-5821 and markgordonvail@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.