Podcasts about First Coast

What does it take to build a thriving real estate business from scratch—while raising three kids as a single mom? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Beverly Hecht, a top Jacksonville Beach realtor, who shares her compelling journey from IT sales to becoming a real estate powerhouse. A Jacksonville native with deep community roots, Beverly dives into how her corporate discipline, single-mom tenacity, and relentless drive helped her transition into real estate and build a loyal client base along Florida's First Coast. From navigating tough markets like 2008's crash to today's complex insurance landscape and evolving buyer expectations, Beverly offers rich insights and strategies that new and seasoned agents alike can benefit from. Her love for the beaches, community involvement, and commitment to lifelong learning truly set her apart in a competitive industry. Loved Beverly's story? Subscribe now and leave us a review! Share this episode with someone who dreams of turning obstacles into opportunity in the real estate world.   Highlights: 00:00 - 04:30 Beverly's Early Career & Transition ·        Shifts in buyer behavior ·        Parenting perspectives on adulthood ·        Helping all age groups purchase homes ·        Insight into young vs. seasoned buyers ·        Real estate as a path to wealth 04:31 - 11:00 Navigating Generational Differences ·        Pursuing teaching for family time ·        Corporate-sponsored bachelor's degree ·        Missed opportunity at UF master's program ·        Management and HR experience ·        Reflection on shifting corporate values 11:01 - 20:00 Jacksonville's Unique Real Estate Market ·        Geographic and lifestyle diversity ·        Schools' influence on buying decisions ·        Customized client tours ·        Community needs: golf, beach, fitness ·        Real-life relocation scenarios 20:01 - 27:00 Insurance Woes & Structural Challenges ·        Florida's condo insurance chaos ·        Effects of new regulations ·        Firsthand experience with rising premiums ·        Advice for home buyers ·        Navigating inspections and requirements 27:01 - 00:38:00 Insurance, Market Challenges, and Pricing ·        Shifts in market dynamics ·        Personal sacrifices during 2008 crisis ·        Foreclosures and investor impact ·        Strategy for buyers in today's market ·        Education on value vs. price 38:01 – 01:11:03 Agent Growth & New Market Realities ·        Helping buyers in a high-rate environment ·        Tips for new agents post-NAR changes ·        The power of open houses ·        Buyer rep agreements and their perception ·        Risk management in today's market ·        Conclusion   Quotes: “I feel very fortunate that I come from a corporate background where there were methods and procedures.” – Beverly Hecht “You're not going to get the perfect storm—low rates and low home prices with the home you want.” – Beverly Hecht “My heart's not in working with investors looking to take advantage of people.” – Beverly Hecht “Real estate does more for me than sometimes I think it does for them.” – Beverly Hecht   To contact Beverly Hecht, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on her Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Beverly Hecht! Website: https://www.beverlyhechtrealtor.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beverlyhecht/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beverlyhechtpa/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverlyhechtpa/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #JacksonvilleRealtor #BeverlyHecht #BeachLifeHomes #RealEstatePodcast #WomenInRealEstate #RealEstateGrit #FloridaHomes #RelocationExpert #HousingMarket2025 #HomeBuyers #RealEstateTips #RealtorLife #SingleMomSuccess #MarketInsights #BuyersMarket #CondoLiving #RealEstateEducation #FloridaInsurance #LocalLeadership

From an attempt to silence reporting on Hope Florida to a new Jacksonville bill limiting aid for immigrants, we discuss all the week's headlines.

Florida's immunity from national & global economic hiccups has been tested the past two years. As we enter the heat of summer, tourism remains robust across the Sunshine State, particularly along the First Coast. In this episode, JBJ Managing Editor Stuart Korfhage welcomes St. George Inn Owner Irving Kass to the podcast with an update.

We discuss the week's biggest headlines, from a presidential selection debacle at UF to a Pride fest spanning the St. Johns.

It's the week's biggest headlines, from drama on the City Council floor and political change on the dais to the effects of NOAA cutbacks on hurricane season.

A missing woman from out of state has been safely rescued in Florida. Chase Robinson joins JMN to share details of how a tip to First Coast Crime Stoppers contributed in her recovery, and why every tip matters. If you have tips, call 866-845-TIPS (8477).

It's the week's biggest headlines, from a land grab backlash to an end to “free lunch” at Duval schools.

It's the week's biggest headlines, from St. Johns County's search for a schools superintendent to Jacksonville's request for more DOGE oversight.

Chase Robinson joins JMN to talk about how one tip led to an arrest that led to two illegal gambling rooms as well as another tip that led to five arrests for having $24,000 of marijuana. He also talks about a couple of other cases that First Coast Crime Stoppers has highlighted

It's the week's biggest headlines, from a wild week for wildlife to increasing tensions in City Hall.

Can you build a billion-dollar brokerage by saying “no” more than you say “yes”? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Corey Hasting. Corey opened his first Engel & Völkers shop in Jacksonville Beach on April 30, 2018. Since then, Corey has opened 3 additional shops located in Amelia Island, the Beaches Town Center and St. Johns Florida. Since opening Corey has recruited over 80 top producing advisors who should sell more than $700,000,000 in volume and over 1500 transactions in 2021. Corey has been awarded countless awards since opening the Jacksonville franchise including being a member of the class of 2020 for the prestigious 40 under 40 list by the Jacksonville Business Journal and in 2021, Engel & Völkers Jacksonville, under Corey's leadership was awarded the 12th fastest growing company in Northeast Florida and the #1 fastest growing Real Estate brokerage by the Jacksonville Business Journal. Corey fosters a high-performance culture, the non-negotiables he upholds in agent recruitment, and how technology—especially AI—is being used to empower advisors. From managing listings that linger to creating scalable systems that support both agent growth and work-life balance, Corey offers a masterclass in leadership and vision in modern real estate. If you're a broker, team lead, or top producer stuck at a ceiling—this episode is your breakthrough.   Highlights: 00:00–12:13 Building the Foundation & Elite Brokerage Culture Corey's leadership values: humility, curiosity, and discipline From D1 athlete to award-winning broker Reaching just under $1B in sales with 136 advisors Engel & Völkers' reputation in luxury and international markets Establishing high standards for culture, production, and full-time commitment 12:14–25:47 Market Dynamics, Pricing Challenges & Seller Education Shifts in market behavior and seller psychology Empowering agents with data-driven listing conversations Cash buyers regaining leverage post-COVID Listing strategy adjustments in high-supply neighborhoods Creating structure and confidence around value and negotiation 25:48–38:59 Elevating Agent Performance Through Systems & Support Transitioning agents from $6M–$15M with backend support Exclusive in-house marketing and TC team models Time-saving tools that boost daily productivity High agent engagement in training and meetings 89% of agents grow production in 6 months 39:00–50:52 Culture-Driven Recruiting & Strategic Growth Vetting for cultural fit before adding new agents Turning down high-volume producers to preserve standards Competing through support and service—not splits Reinvesting profits into systems over headcount Organic team growth via pride and internal referrals 50:53–01:03:59 Leadership Evolution, Vision & Self-Discipline Lessons from launching a brokerage at 27 Milestones to $300M, $500M, and the $1B target Balancing ambition with appreciation for the journey Vulnerability and personal growth as a founder Mental discipline from sports background applied to real estate 01:04:00–01:13:31 Tactical Advice for Brokers & Long-Term Impact Mastering recruiting, value proposition, and vision setting Full-service vs. capping model decisions Why enjoying the wins matters more than just chasing them Redefining success as impact, not income How broker support creates ripple effects across agent careers Conclusion   Quotes:  “Technology is useless if you don't know how to use it or where to find it.” - Corey Hasting “If you're not using some sort of AI, you're falling behind pretty quickly.” - Corey Hasting  “Not every business is good business—sometimes you have to say no.” - Corey Hasting  “People buy people before they buy product—this is a customer service industry first.” - Corey Hasting   To contact Corey Hasting, learn more about his business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Corey Hasting! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corey_hasting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corey.hasting.3 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasting/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #CoreyHastings #EngelVolkers #LuxuryRealEstate #JacksonvilleRealEstate #BrokerLeadership #RealEstateTech #AIInRealEstate #TopProducerMindset #RealEstatePodcast #BrokerageSuccess #RealTrends #RealEstateRecruiting #RealEstateStrategy #MarketMastery #ListingTips #RealEstateCulture #TopAgentSupport #BrokerTips #TeamGrowth

It's the week's biggest headlines, from a push to regulate e-bikes to new state regulations around dangerous dogs.

Chase Robinson of First Coast Crime Stoppers joins JMN to discuss the upcoming First Coast Crime Stoppers livestream event, and several crimes that could use some assistance to resolve. Visit FCCRIMESTOPPERS.COM to learn more, and call 866-845-TIPS (8477) if you've got a tip!

Business is definitely picking up in First Coast waters, and if you don't believe that, you need to listen to[...]

It's the week's biggest headlines, from the latest figures on local homelessness, to student protests at both the high school and college level.

From ICE on campus to the latest on a troubling jail death, we discuss all the week's headlines with our media roundtable.

Chase joins JMN to talk about the tips that led to the arrests of Breon Allen's killers as well as a cold case for the murder of Julia Vegas who was killed back in 1989.

It's the week's biggest headlines, from a state move to reduce AP funding in schools to a jail inmate in critical condition.

It's the week's biggest headlines, from Florida's special election takeaways to the mayor's non-veto of immigration legislation.

Our media panel unpacks the week's top headlines — from a City Council crackdown on immigration to a state legislative push to loosen restrictions on child labor laws.

It's as Fully Loaded an SDH AM as we've hadWe start with a Sporting JAX update with new Head of Soccer Mark Warburton and President/CEO Steve Livingstone We look at what attracted Warburton to the First Coast and what the expectations are on the field and off for the expansion franchiseMatt Webb gives a Marshall Islands update and the Kickstarter campaign for August's CupHour 2 is Nino, Niko, Maddie, and Tyler Terens on everything CONMEBOL and MLS 

From broadened state book bans to investment in conspiracy science, our media panel unpacks the biggest headlines of the week.

What transferable skills from your past career could make you a top performer in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Veronica Wilen. Veronica was recently recognized as one of the Top 500 Agents by Jacksonville Real Producers 2025, Veronica Wilen is a powerhouse in Northeast Florida's real estate market. With over 70 successful transactions and more than $65 million in sales volume, she specializes in residential single-family homes, helping buyers—especially those relocating from out of state—find their dream homes in Ponte Vedra, St. Johns County, and beyond. A Nocatee Certified Agent and resident since 2016, Veronica has an insider's perspective on what makes Nocatee stand out among Florida's top master-planned communities. While she sells throughout Northeast Florida, 80% of her listings are in Nocatee, making her an invaluable resource for both buyers and sellers looking to navigate this sought-after community. Veronica also dives deep into the importance of preparation, communication, and staging when working with clients.  Whether you're a new agent or an experienced one looking to elevate your game, her insights on professionalism, strategy, and continuous learning will inspire you to refine your craft.   Highlights 00:00 - 12:49 Veronica's Journey to Real Estate Success Born in Kazakhstan and raised in Germany before moving to the U.S. Family history and the decision to relocate from the Soviet Union to Germany Transitioning from psychology to finance and later into real estate Moving to Florida as an au pair and pursuing an MBA Challenges and rewards of building a real estate career from the ground up 12:50 - 28:30 Applying Project Management to Real Estate How project management skills translate into real estate success Why communication is 95% of a project manager's role Preparing for client interactions with a structured and professional approach Using data-driven strategies to help clients make informed decisions How organization and discipline build client trust and improve transactions 28:31 - 36:45 Choosing the Right Brokerage for Growth Veronica's experience moving through different brokerages The importance of mentorship and a strong support system Why Engel & Völkers First Coast was the perfect fit for her The value of high-level collaboration with experienced agents How technology and training contribute to professional development 36:46 - 50:57 The Power of Staging and Presentation The impact of staging on faster and higher-value home sales The psychology behind buyer perception and first impressions Working with professional stagers vs. DIY staging solutions Virtual staging as an alternative when budgets are tight Small but impactful changes that make a home more marketable 50:58 - 01:10:45 Mastering Client Relationships and Negotiation The importance of follow-ups and staying present with clients Turning potential buyers into long-term, repeat clients The impact of having a strong CRM system for client management Navigating difficult client situations with psychology and empathy Why real estate is more than a transaction—it's about people's lives 01:10:46 - 01:14:48 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Consistent The emotional rollercoaster of lost deals and lessons learned Why follow-up speed and urgency can make or break a transaction How a business mindset elevates an agent's success The role of social media and video content in attracting clients Continuous learning and growth through mentorship and networking Conclusion   Quotes: "Providing value is always very, very important. People will remember what you bring to the table." – Veronica Wilen "Project management and real estate have so much in common—communication, organization, and being prepared are key to success." – Veronica Wilen "Your home is not just a financial transaction—it's where you build memories. Helping people find the right place is incredibly rewarding." – Veronica Wilen   To contact Veronica Wilen, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veronikini Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicawilenrealtor/ Website: https://veronicawilen.evrealestate.com/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstatePodcast #VeronicaWilen #EngelVolkers #TopRealtor #HomeBuying #LuxuryHomes #FloridaRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #ProjectManagement #SuccessMindset #RealtorLife #HomeSellers #StagingTips #BusinessGrowth #Networking #FollowUp #DreamHome #RealEstateTips #Professionalism #RealtorJourney

From a city government efficiency effort to police officers under fire, our media panel unpacks the week's headlines.

The First Coast hasn't been spared in the wave of federal layoffs. We talk about the legal, emotional and practical implications for local workers.

Our media panel breaks down the week's headlines, from DOGE on our doorstep to Town Hall avoidance syndrome.

How can a proven system transform your real estate career? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy sits down with Gail Long. Since moving to The First Coast in 2011, she has completely fallen in love with the area and all that it has to offer. She is a Florida native, but the cities of Jacksonville and St Augustine, with the beaches, the marshes and the St. Johns River running through the middle of everything, are unique, and are communities that she is happy to call home. When she is not working, her family can usually be found outside enjoying the Florida sunshine. Gail Long, a top-producing realtor in Northeast Florida. Gail shares her journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful real estate agent, crediting the Buffini coaching system for her success. She dives into how relationship-based business strategies, consistency, and mentorship helped her build a thriving career in real estate. If you're an aspiring or struggling agent, Gail's insights into networking, referrals, and business systems will give you the blueprint to elevate your game. Learn how staying connected, showing up consistently, and following a structured plan can lead to long-term success in the real estate industry. Want to take your real estate business to the next level? Connect with Gail Long and explore Buffini Coaching!   Highlights 00:00 – 02:19 The Power of Mindset & Personal Development Importance of working on yourself for business success How personal growth improves client relationships Staying committed to continuous learning The impact of personal development on negotiation skills Building confidence as a real estate professional 02:19 – 10:12 The Buffini System & Relationship-Based Business How Gail discovered the Buffini system Why referrals are key to long-term success Monthly mailers and handwritten notes for client engagement Hosting business mixers to expand networks The importance of consistency in follow-ups 10:12 – 28:00 Transition from Teaching to Real Estate Mindset shift from employee to entrepreneur Lessons from teaching that apply to real estate How past career skills helped in client interactions The challenge of leaving a stable job for self-employment Finding the right real estate brokerage for mentorship 28:00 – 42:13 Strategies for Business Growth & Lead Generation Using property management to build a client base Open houses as a tool for meeting potential buyers The value of social media in brand visibility Learning from top-producing agents Setting and achieving small business goals 42:13 – 48:13 Grit & Resilience in Real Estate Handling rejection and tough market conditions Overcoming self-doubt as a new agent The Christmas Eve contract cancellation story How to maintain motivation during slow periods Learning to separate emotions from business decisions 48:13 – 01:16:12 The Power of Networking & Community Why in-person training enhances success The benefits of joining mastermind groups Learning from peers through book clubs and meetups The role of mentorship in career development Surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals Conclusion   Quotes: “You're not getting a job, you're starting a business.” - Gail Long “I don't have to think about my marketing—I just follow the system.” - Gail Long “The day you plant the seed is not the day you get the harvest.” - Gail Long “Who you surround yourself with in real estate is crucial to success.” - Gail Long   To contact Gail Long, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Website. Facebook: https://facebook.com/gaillongrealtor Instagram: https://instagram.com/gflong YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gaillongrealtor Website: https://www.gaillongrealtor.com   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #BuffiniCoaching #TopRealtor #RealEstateTips #FloridaHomes #JacksonvilleRealEstate #NortheastFlorida #RealtorSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #RealEstateMarketing #Networking #ReferralBusiness #SalesSuccess #ConsistentMarketing #BusinessGrowth #HomeSellingTips #HomeBuying #RealEstateCoaching #TopProducer #SuccessMindset

Our media panel unpacks the week's headlines, from a wrongful death lawsuit in a high-profile murder case to protests over a new jail.

Our media panel unpacks the week's biggest headlines, from a controversial land swap to the unveiling of a memorial to a local civil rights martyr.

Our media panel unpacks the week's biggest stories, including a warning to parents about “Senior Assassins” to massive crowds, safety and traffic concerns spilling over from St. Augustine's signature holiday event.

Our media panel unpacks the week's biggest headlines, from local schools' response to ICE concerns to city trash haulers threatening to sue the city of Jacksonville.

Well, after a brutally cold week of weather, Mother Nature chose to smile upon the First Coast once again! With[...]

Our panel unpacks the week's biggest headlines, from a local trash clash to rifts in the state GOP.

Send us a textThis week Bree from @hiberniahistory (filling in for the ever adventuring Sunshine State Seekers) and Ryan discuss their favorite destinations along Florida's First Coast from the little-known area of Hibernia to the plantation ruins around Ormond Beach.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

It's no secret it has been extremely chilly over the past week, but the big question for First Coast anglers[...]

Our media panel unpacks the week's biggest headlines, from falling snow to fallout over an accidental police shooting.

So a new year has begun, and the fish of the First Coast sure do know it.  It's all about[...]

Our media panel dives into the week's biggest headlines, from the City Council's override of Mayor Donna Deegan's first veto to a criminal indictment against the longtime leaders of the Duval teachers union.

Our media panel unpacks the week's top stories, from a controversial airport hologram to an arrest for “paper dope.”

Our media panel unpacks the week's top stories, from a new statewide social media ban for minors to the storm-related spread of invasive species.

Capt. Kevin was back, but still basking in the glory of another amazing OS Christmas Show at RingPower! Lots of[...]

Our media panel unpacks the week's top stories, from a large-scale gambling sting to plans for a retrofitted Metro Park.

Our media panel unpacks the week's top stories, ranging from a city garbage fiasco to an unrelenting stench in Murray Hill.

Our media panel breaks down the week's top stories, from a yacht party backlash to the arrival of professional women's soccer.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, of course, but even though Capt. Kevin was spending time in Georgia, there was[...]

Our media panel breaks down the week's biggest stories — including garbage fees, an ICE lawsuit, Duval school district changes and a three-day tire fire.

Our media panel breaks down the week's biggest stories.

Our media panel breaks down the week's biggest stories.

Our media panel breaks down the week's top headlines.

Our media panel breaks down the week's top headlines.