Podcast appearances and mentions of gary gary

Send us Fan MailThe future of real estate search may not belong to Zillow, Realtor.com, Compass, or any brokerage portal.It may belong to AI.Buyers are increasingly moving toward a world where they can simply tell ChatGPT, Google AI, Gemini, or another AI assistant exactly what they want:“Find me the five best homes for my family, my budget, my commute, and my lifestyle.”And then comes the question every real estate agent should be thinking about:“Who is the best agent to help me buy one of these homes?”In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, Gary Pickren explores why the real estate industry may be spending millions of dollars fighting over portals while artificial intelligence is quietly changing the entire way consumers search for homes, compare properties, research neighborhoods, and ultimately choose a real estate agent.Google itself is moving from traditional search results toward AI-generated answers. Zillow is already embracing conversational AI. The consumer journey is changing fast.So what does that mean for Realtors?It means the future may not be about getting more website clicks.It may be about making sure AI understands who you are, what market you serve, and why you are an expert.In this episode:• Why AI could become the new front door to real estate search• Why traditional real estate portals may lose influence• How Google AI is changing the way consumers search• Why Zillow is already preparing for the AI era• How AI may narrow hundreds of listings down to the best few• Why agents will still be essential to the real estate transaction• How AI could determine which agents get recommended to consumers• Why Answer Engine Optimization, or AEO, matters• Why generic real estate content will not be enough• How hyperlocal expertise can help agents stand out• Why YouTube, reviews, websites, articles, and original content matter more than ever• What agents should be doing now to position themselves for AI searchThe biggest marketing question for Realtors may soon change from:“Where do I rank on Google?”to:“When AI is asked who the expert is, does it say my name?”The agents who win the next era of real estate may not be the ones who spend the most money buying leads.They may be the ones who become the most trusted answer.Stop trying to own the search. Become the answer.CLICK FOR THE BEFORE YOU SIGN SERIESDon't Sign a Buyer's Real Estate Agent Agreement Until You Watch This | South CarolinaSubscribe to Dishin' Dirt for more discussions on real estate law, technology, artificial intelligence, brokerage trends, marketing, and the issues shaping the future of the real estate industry.#RealEstate #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #Realtor #RealEstateAgent #ChatGPT #Zillow #GoogleAI #RealEstateMarketing #RealEstateTechnology #AEO #FutureOfRealEstateDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailOur host, Gary Scott Thomas, has spent nearly 50 years in radio, and during that time he has met plenty of artists who went on to become stars. But there was one he never saw coming: Kenny Chesney.This week on Once Around the Country, Gary walks through Kenny's full journey, from a self-produced demo album sold out of the trunk of his car in Johnson City clubs to a publishing deal at the Opryland Music Group to a first record deal that ended when the label shut down to the persistence that finally landed him a deal with BNA Records. Gary also shares a personal memory from a moment in a program director's office, when a young and slightly discouraged Kenny Chesney needed a laugh and a little belief from the people around him.Years later, when Kenny had become a superstar, he returned the favor by being the first big guest on KRTY's new streaming radio station. This is a story about Kenny Chesney, hard work, humility, timing, and what happens when someone keeps going even when the path ahead isn't obvious.In This Episode:Kenny Chesney's childhood in Luttrell, Tennessee, and his athletic beginningsAttending Gibbs High School, the same school that later produced Morgan WallenDiscovering bluegrass music at East Tennessee StateMeeting Alison Krauss while both were still studentsSelling over a thousand self-produced albums with no promotionMoving to Nashville and playing the Bluebird Cafe and the TurfSigning his first record deal on Capricorn Records in 1994The label closing and what came nextSigning with BNA Records in 1995 and his first top ten hitsThe moment Gary and his radio partner Julie helped Kenny push through self-doubtKenny agreeing to help launch the radio station's move to streamingWhat Kenny Chesney is really like, according to someone who has known him for decades This episode is sponsored by: Bison Junk Removal Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261 Bio:Kenny Chesney is one of country music's biggest stars, but his story started far from the stadiums. A Tennessee native and former college baseball and football player, Chesney discovered bluegrass at East Tennessee State before moving to Nashville and building his career one club, song, and fan at a time. Known for hits like “How Forever Feels,” “She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy,” and “That's Why I'm Here,” Chesney's career is a story of hard work, persistence, and knowing when to change course.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennychesney/Tags: Kenny Chesney, Kenny Chesney story, Kenny Chesney career, Kenny Chesney biography, Kenny Chesney early career, Kenny Chesney Nashville, Kenny Chesney country music, Tim McGraw, Gary Scott Thomas, country music stories, country music history, country music radio, Nashville music, Here's What We Know, Once Around the Country, Kenny Chesney superstar, Kenny Chesney rise to fameConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailPrivate Listings: The Hidden Complaint Trap Real Estate Agents MissPrivate listings can create the complaint that comes back months later and hits the hardest—when a seller sees a nearby house sell for far more and starts asking why their home was never fully exposed to the market.If you work in South Carolina real estate, this episode breaks down why that scenario is such a legal and licensing danger, and what the Commission's guidance actually means for your file, your disclosures, and your license.Gary Pickren digs into the real risk behind limited-market-exposure listings: not whether the sale closes, but whether the seller truly understood the trade-offs. A higher neighboring sale does not automatically prove harm, but it can spark a grievance, a deposition, or a lawsuit if the documentation is thin and the explanation sounds more like company policy than seller-specific judgment.What You'll LearnWhy a private listing can seem fine at closing and still become a major complaint laterHow the South Carolina Real Estate Commission views private listings, fiduciary duty, and conflicts of interest Why a private listing can seem fine at closing and still become a major complaint later The difference between a seller-driven decision and a brokerage-driven business strategy What should be included in your file so it tells the story when memory fails Why a seller's signature is not enough without a real conversation about risks, exposure, and alternatives How agents and brokers can better document the seller's objectives and informed decision Why patterns across an office may matter more than any single transaction How plaintiff's attorneys may use private-listing guidance in a future complaint or lawsuit Chapter Timeline00:00 — Private Listings: The Risk of Seller Complaints02:13 — Welcome and Firm Updates03:21 — Introducing the Before You Sign Video Series04:24 — Why Documentation Matters06:28 — Conflicts of Interest and Civil Liability08:41 — When Private Listings Become a Brokerage Strategy15:01 — Five Practical Steps for Real Estate Agents18:48 — Five Responsibilities for Brokers-in-Charge22:33 — What the Commission Guidance Does—and Doesn't—Say23:40 — The Core Principle: Put the Seller First27:34 — Final Takeaway and ClosingGary also explains practical steps for agents and brokers in charge, including how to identify the seller's true objective, how to use the commission form as a conversation guide rather than a signature page, and why the license on the line is yours—not your broker's or your company's.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWho has the best shot at making the Super Bowl this NFL season?This week on Here's What We Know, longtime Bay Area sports radio host Mark Willard joins Gary Scott Thomas to talk 49ers, Rams, Chargers, Broncos, and the teams he thinks could make a serious run this season.Mark explains why he has the Rams as his favorite in the NFC, where he sees the 49ers in the NFC West, and why he's finally willing to take the Chargers seriously. We get into Justin Herbert, Matthew Stafford, quarterback play, injuries, the changing world of college football, NIL, the transfer portal, and what it all means for the game we grew up watching. And yes, they make their Super Bowl predictions.It is a fun, opinionated conversation full of Bay Area sports talk, some good-natured arguing, and a reminder that being a fan is supposed to be fun in the first place.In This Episode:Why local radio is not dying, even when parts of the industry are strugglingWhat it is like to be a fan of a genuinely hated teamGrowing up a Saints fan in South Alabama with no cable televisionWhy criticism online is often a sign you are doing something rightFootball as the last true team sport left in modern athleticsThe NIL era and what it means for the future of college footballNFC West breakdown: Rams, 49ers, Seahawks, and CardinalsMatthew Stafford, Justin Herbert, and the quarterbacks who deserve more creditBaker Mayfield's contract standoff with the BuccaneersWhy the Patriots may take a step back this seasonThe case for the Chargers as a real AFC contenderFinal Super Bowl predictions from both Gary and Mark This episode is sponsored by: Bison Junk Removal Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261 Bio:Mark Willard is the host of the San Francisco-Bay Area leading drive-time show “Willard & Dibs” on 95.7 The Game and is a nationally syndicated weekend host on FOX Sports Radio. He previously hosted college football Saturdays for Pac-12 Networks and a daily show on ESPNLA with Lakers great Mychal Thompson, as well as the weekly show The Forum. He is the proud father of three teens.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktwillard/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtwillard/Tags: NFL predictions 2026, NFL season predictions, 49ers predictions, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, LA Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, LA Chargers, Denver Broncos, NFC West predictions, Super Bowl predictions, Mark Willard, Mark Willard NFL, Matthew Stafford, Justin Herbert, NFL quarterbacks, college football, sports radio, football podcast, Gary Scott Thomas Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailPrivate listings might sound exclusive, but South Carolina's Real Estate Commission is spelling out exactly what sellers may be giving up - fewer buyers, fewer offers, weaker terms, and a longer path to closing. I will break down the new commission-approved disclosure form line by line and explains why it could change how brokers talk about limited market exposure forever. I will also walk through the 11 seller acknowledgments in the “Residential Disclosure and Acknowledgement of Limited Market Exposure Listing,” highlighting the ones that should make every agent, broker-in-charge, and seller stop and think. I will unpack the economics behind exposure, why competition drives value, and how “exclusive” can quickly become a liability when the goal is to get the best result for the seller. You'll discover:- why limiting exposure can suppress buyer demand before a property ever reaches the public market -how fewer offers can mean not just lower price, but worse contingencies, timing, and financing terms -why “days on market” can be misstated when a listing sits privately before going public -the representation conflict that arises when a brokerage keeps more business inside its own ecosystem-how private inventory can distort comparable sales and affect future valuations -why fair housing concerns may be the biggest legal issue of all when access is controlled through private networksI will also explain why the broker-in-charge's signature matters, what a real compliance process should look like, and why blanket “private first” strategies are exactly what the Commission seems to be warning against. If your brokerage uses pocket listings, limited exposure marketing, or internal-only inventory, this episode is essential listening before the next disclosure lands on your desk. Chapters00:00 — Limited Exposure Listings: What They Are02:22 — Welcome & Blair Cato Updates03:28 — Seller Request vs. Agent Recommendation04:00 — The New Limited Market Exposure Disclosure05:10 — Why Exposure Drives Competition07:25 — Fewer Offers, Lower Leverage09:02 — Price, Terms & Lost Opportunities10:04 — The Risk of Delayed Public Marketing12:16 — Representation Conflicts13:20 — How Private Sales Affect Comparable Values15:00 — Fair Housing & Equal Access20:24 — Seller Privacy Doesn't Override Fair Housing21:28 — What Brokers-in-Charge Need to Review25:13 — Documenting the Seller's Decision25:47 — Why Blanket Private-Listing Policies Are Risky27:29 — Incentives, Claims & Agent Training29:44 — Supervision and the Broker's Responsibility31:28 — Next Week: The Public-Market ComparisonDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when anger becomes funny?Alex Pearlman has built a following by saying the things many people are thinking but cannot always say themselves. His viral Mexican Pizza rant helped put him on the map, but there was a lot of work behind that moment.This week on Here's What We Know, comedian and TikTok star Alex Pearlman talks about growing up outside Philadelphia, finding his voice through more than two decades of comedy, going viral, and what happens when the internet suddenly decides you're an "overnight success."Alex believes people have lost sight of the fact that there is a real person on the other side of the screen. His Crashing Out Tour is part of his effort to get people out of comment sections and back into real conversations. Listen now.In This Episode:The real story behind Alex's viral "Mexican Pizza Hut rant" and what he learned about timing, monetization, and TikTokWhy Alex calls himself an "anger translator" for people who can't say what they're really thinkingGrowing up in Delco, outside Philadelphia, and how that shaped his comedic voiceThe difference between angry-and-funny and angry-and-jerky, and why so few comedians land on the right side of that lineWhat Alex means by a "25-year overnight success" and the odd jobs that quietly fed his material for decadesWhy his wife became his most trusted editor and what that partnership taught him about egoThe danger of young creators going viral with no life experience to back it upWhy Alex built the Crashing Out Tour around getting people off their phones and back into a room togetherWhat's coming to San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts on September 11thCatch Alex Pearlman's Crashing Out Tour on September 11.Pick up your tickets here before they sell out! This episode is sponsored by: Sterling Oak Cabinetry Reed Animal Hospital Bio:Alex Pearlman is a comedian, podcaster, and creator who has been performing stand-up since 2002. A longtime Philadelphia-area resident, Alex has built a following with his sharp, often angry, and always funny takes on everyday life, culture, and politics. His viral videos have introduced him to a much larger audience, but his comedy is rooted in more than two decades of performing and developing his voice. He is also the creator of the Crashing Out Tour, which aims to bring people out of online arguments and back into real conversations with one another.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pearlmania500/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pearlmania500/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pearlmania500YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPearlman2000Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailWe lost the biggest star country music has ever had.This week on Once Around the Country, our host, Gary Scott Thomas, takes you back to a Saturday afternoon in Red Level, Alabama, where an eight-year-old boy stood in a plowed field, fire ants and all, as Porter Wagoner performed on a flatbed trailer and a young Dolly Parton walked onto the stage. Gary had no idea then that he was watching someone who would become one of country music's biggest stars.In this episode, Gary shares what he remembers about that day, industry insight from his years in country radio, and a heartfelt tribute to a woman who built an empire, stayed true to herself, and never forgot where she came from.Gary also talks about Dolly's relationship with Porter, her rise from country music star to cultural icon, her marriage to Carl Dean, and the few moments he was lucky enough to speak with her. And at the end, he'll tell you what happened when he asked Dolly if she remembered that first concert. Listen now.In this episode:Gary's first concert ever, and why it still sticks with him todayThe real story behind Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton's partnership and eventual splitHow "I Will Always Love You" started as a professional goodbye letterDolly's business instincts, including the decision that cost Elvis Presley the song and made Dolly millionsDollywood, her marriage to Carl Dean, and what she was like one-on-oneWhy Gary believes Dolly was country music's first true crossover starThis episode is sponsored by: Sterling Oak Cabinetry Reed Animal Hospital Bio:Dolly Parton is a country music legend, singer, songwriter, actress, author, and entrepreneur who rose from a large, poor family in Tennessee to become one of the most recognizable and beloved artists in the world. Known for her distinctive voice, songwriting talent, humor, and business sense, she built a career that crossed from country music into pop culture while remaining proud of her Appalachian roots. Her catalog includes classics such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You,” and her legacy extends beyond music through Dollywood, philanthropy, and her commitment to literacy and children's causes.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/Tags: Dolly Parton, Dolly Parton podcast, Dolly Parton story, Dolly Parton first concert, Here's What We Know, Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner, country music history, country music stories, Dolly Parton career, Dolly Parton legacy, I Will Always Love You, Dollywood, Carl Dean, country music podcastConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailThe South Carolina Real Estate Commission has issued important new guidance on private listings, office exclusives, off-MLS listings, and other forms of limited market exposure—and every South Carolina real estate agent and Broker-in-Charge needs to understand what it means.In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, Gary Pickren breaks down the Commission's new Seller-Directed Limited Residential Market Exposure Guidance and explains why this is about much more than simply whether a seller can choose to keep a property off the MLS.Private listings are still legal in South Carolina. But the Commission has made an important distinction: when a real estate licensee recommends limited market exposure, the licensee should be prepared to demonstrate why that recommendation was in the seller's best interests—not primarily the interests of the agent or brokerage.In Part 1, we discuss:What the SC Real Estate Commission actually said—and what it did not sayWhy broad public marketing remains the Commission's general starting pointThe difference between a seller requesting a private listing and an agent recommending oneWhy simply getting the seller to sign a disclosure may not be enoughThe fiduciary-duty issues agents need to understandThe potential conflict when limited exposure increases the opportunity to keep both sides of a transaction within the same brokerageWhy agents should be able to explain exactly how limited exposure benefits the individual sellerThe Commission's warning about using limited-market listings as part of a brokerage business strategyWhy the new Commission-approved form specifically asks whose idea the private listing wasThe key question coming out of this new guidance may be surprisingly simple:Who is the private listing really benefiting—the seller, the agent, or the brokerage?If an individual seller wants privacy and understands the tradeoffs, that is one thing. But if a brokerage or agent introduces a private-listing strategy, the analysis may be very different.This episode is especially important for South Carolina REALTORS®, real estate agents, Brokers-in-Charge, brokerage owners, team leaders, and anyone involved with private or off-MLS listings.

Send us Fan MailMiddle Falls Time Travel series bestselling author Shawn Inmon has been on Here's What We Know twice before, and this conversation might be the most personal one yet. In this episode, join us for a wide-ranging conversation about writing, love, creativity, and facing cancer. Shawn shares how the idea behind Middle Falls came from wondering whether we could go back in time and change the choices we made, and how that universal idea grew into a bestselling book series. He also talks about expanding the Middle Falls universe to England and Australia, working with other writers, and why he trusts his audiobook narrators so much. Shawn also opens up about how cancer and treatment have affected his ability to write, why he has permitted himself to step away from the keyboard for a while, why he's choosing to be open about it publicly, and what he wants other men to know about catching it early. Listen now.In this episode:How Shawn met his wife at 15, lost her for 30 years, and found her again at a drive-inWhy Shawn calls himself an organic writer and how he builds a book without an outlineThe story behind Michael Hollister, the shortest and most beloved book in the Middle Falls seriesWriting Reggie Blackwell, a character who resists redemption for yearsHow Chuck Burke's storyline tackles hoarding and addiction with honestyExpanding Middle Falls into England with co-writer Kirsten McKenzieBringing a Western Australia storyline into the series with a new collaboratorShawn's prostate cancer diagnosis, his treatment, and why he's sharing his story publiclyWhat's coming next, including fan-favorite character MoondogThis episode is sponsored by:Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)License #: 679261Bison Junk RemovalBio:Shawn Inmon is a small-town kid who dreamed of being a writer. Today, he is a full-time author who lives in Tumwater, Washington, USA. He worked several dozen jobs - retail, real estate, traveling with the Unlimited Hydroplanes, crabbing in Alaska, morning disc jockey and station manager, and many others he can't remember to list. These jobs gave him a wonderful base to write what he knows because he knows a little about a lot.He achieved his dream of becoming a full-time writer in 2016 and has never looked back. One reviewer called him "The King of Redemption stories." Shawn says he doesn't feel like a king of anything, but he does love a good tale of second chances.He is the author of the ever-growing The Middle Falls Time Travel series, 18 books and counting, and The Alex Hawk Time Travel Adventure series. He is also the author of Feels Like the First Time, a bestselling memoir of growing up in a small town in the seventies, falling in love, and messing everything up.He lives with his high school sweetheart - now wife -Dawn, two happy-go-lucky Chocolate Labs, and a slightly schizo cat named Georgie. Website: https://www.shawn-inmon.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShawnInmonWriter/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawninmon/X: https://twitter.com/ShawnInmonTags: Shawn Inmon, Middle Falls, Middle Falls series, bestselling author, Shawn Inmon interview, time travel books, second chances, writing books, author interview, audiobook narration, cancer and creativity, writing through adversity, Who is Shawn Inmon, what is the Middle Falls series, Shawn Inmon books, Shawn Inmon author interview, what is Middle Falls about, Shawn Inmon writing process, Shawn Inmon cancer, Shawn Inmon audiobook, books about second chances, books about time travel,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailRonnie Dunn was studying to be a preacher while Kix Brooks was already a working Nashville songwriter with hits on the radio. Neither one planned on becoming half of the biggest duo in country music history, and neither one really wanted to be tied to a partner. This week on Once Around the Country, our host, Gary Scott Thomas, walks through the real story of Brooks & Dunn, from a Nashville meeting neither man asked for, to three straight number one singles to a farewell tour that didn't stick and the reunion that proved some partnerships are worth fighting to keep.Give it a listen today. We think you'll walk away with a whole new appreciation for the two guys behind "Neon Moon."In This Episode:How Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks were introduced by producer Tim DuBoisThe story behind their first single, "Brand New Man," and writing three hits in one sessionWhy Kix Brooks was considered the bigger star when the duo formedThe disagreement over recording "My Maria" and why it became their biggest hitHow "Only in America" ended up as a campaign song for both partiesBrooks & Dunn's first attempted breakup and the record executive who talked them out of itThe Last Rodeo farewell tour and what changed Ronnie Dunn's mindWhy Reboot and Reboot 2 brought a new generation of country stars into their catalogWhat it's really like watching Brooks & Dunn open for Morgan Wallen todayThis episode is sponsored by:Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261 Bison Junk RemovalBrooks and Dunn:Brooks & Dunn, made up of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, became one of the most successful duos in country music history. They came together in Nashville in the late 1980s and quickly found success with hits like “Brand New Man,” “Neon Moon,” “Boot Scootin' Boogie,” and “My Maria.” Their partnership produced years of awards, chart-topping songs, and unforgettable live performances, even as the two men eventually tried to go their separate ways twice. Somehow, they kept finding their way back to the music that made them one of country's most beloved duos.Website: https://www.brooks-dunn.com/Tags: Brooks & Dunn, Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, Brooks and Dunn breakup, Brooks & Dunn history, Brooks & Dunn story, Neon Moon, Brand New Man, My Maria, country music history, country music duos, Nashville music, Last Rodeo, Brooks & Dunn RebootConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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Send us Fan MailHave you ever wanted to reach out to someone you admire but talked yourself out of asking?This week on Here's What We Know, Mark J. Carter has been asking people for their time since he was in college, when he started tracking down CEOs, authors, and other successful people simply because he wanted to learn from them. That curiosity eventually led to his work as an interviewer, the Idea Climbing podcast, and conversations with people like Bo Jackson.Mark shares what he has learned from years of interviewing successful people, including the two questions that can help an interviewer when they don't know what to ask next: How? And why? We also talk about networking, asking for help, finding your personal superpower, building a brand, and figuring out how to turn a big idea into something that can actually make money.In this episode, you'll hear about:How Mark started reaching out to successful people before social media changed networkingWhy asking for someone's time can be much easier than we make itThe importance of genuine curiosityMark's "How and Why" approach to interviewingWhat he learned from interviewing Bo JacksonHow to find your personal superpowerWhy everyone has a personal brandHow to ask for help without feeling like you're imposingTurning a big idea into a businessWhy successful entrepreneurs keep looking for the next challengeHow Mark uses interviews to help coaches, consultants, and speakers tell better stories This episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Sterling Oak Cabinetry Bio:Mark J. Carter is the founder and host of the Idea Climbing podcast, as well as an interviewer, speaker, author, and entrepreneur. For more than 27 years, his curiosity about how successful people think, solve problems, and turn ideas into action has led him to conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, athletes, and other accomplished people. He is the author of Idea Climbing: How to Create a Support System for Your Next Big Idea, and his upcoming book, Idea Scaling: How to Monetize Your Next Big Idea With Passion and Purpose, draws on interviews with six-, seven-, and eight-figure business owners to offer practical guidance for entrepreneurs. Mark also brings his experience as an improv practitioner to his interviews and presentations, creating conversations that are curious, collaborative and spontaneous.Website: https://www.markjcarter.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcarter/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markjcarter/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mjcarter/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkJCarterConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailBefore Taylor Swift, there was Shania Twain.This week on Once Around the Country, Gary breaks down the real story behind one of the most successful and most underrated careers in music history. Shania Twain grew up as Eileen Edwards in Windsor and Timmins, Ontario, raising money for her family by singing in bars from age 8. She lost both of her parents in a car accident at 21 and stepped in to raise her younger siblings while working six nights a week at a resort. From there, she became Shania Twain and built a career that redefined what a country artist could be, from the record-breaking sales of The Woman in Me and Come On Over to a Super Bowl halftime show and a heartbreak so public it played out like a soap opera.This episode covers her childhood, her early years playing bars for tips, the loss of her parents, her marriage to producer Mutt Lange, the explosion of Come On Over, her Lyme disease diagnosis and vocal struggles, and how she rebuilt her voice and her career on her own terms.In This Episode:Shania Twain's childhood in Windsor and Timmins, OntarioGrowing up with food scarcity and family hardshipSinging in bars at age eight to help support her familyThe loss of her parents and raising her siblingsHow Eileen Edwards became Shania TwainMeeting producer Robert "Mutt" LangeThe Woman in Me and Come On Over album successShania Twain's record-breaking album salesHer Super Bowl halftime performanceHer divorce from Mutt Lange and the story behind itHer Lyme disease diagnosis and vocal cord dysfunctionWhy Shania Twain deserves more credit as a music industry pioneerThis episode is sponsored by:Sterling Oak Cabinetry Dignity Memorial Bio:Shania Twain is one of the most successful and influential country music crossover artists of all time. Born Eileen Edwards in Ontario, Canada, she began performing as a child and overcame a difficult upbringing before building a career that would take her from small-town bars to the biggest stages in the world. With hits like “Any Man of Mine,” “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “From This Moment On,” along with the massive success of The Woman in Me and Come On Over, Shania helped redefine what a country music superstar could be. Her story also includes personal heartbreak, the loss of her singing voice and an extraordinary determination to keep performing and creating.Tags: Tags; Shania Twain, Shania Twain biography, Shania Twain story, Shania Twain career, Shania Twain Come On Over, Shania Twain The Woman in Me, Shania Twain country music, Shania Twain greatest hits, Shania Twain 1990s, Shania Twain biggest star, country music legends, country music history, 90s music, 90s country music, Taylor Swift Shania Twain, women in country music, country music crossover, Shania Twain resilience,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailAI is making real estate faster, smarter, and easier to scale - but it's also making fraud cheaper, faster, and more convincing. The agents and brokerages that win next may not be the ones using the most AI, but the ones consumers trust with their money.Gary Pickren lays out the new reality real estate professionals are walking into, where fabricated emails, cloned voices, manipulated documents, and AI-generated video can all be used to fool buyers, sellers, and even seasoned teams. The upside is real. So is the risk.You'll hear how AI is already improving marketing, communication, research, contract review, scheduling, and transaction management, while simultaneously raising the stakes around identity, verification, and client protection. The conversation centers on a critical shift: technology can accelerate your business, but trust is what will separate the companies people choose.You'll discover why deception is becoming more accessible than ever, what that means for real estate operations, and how forward-thinking firms can build systems that protect clients before a problem happens. Gary also explains why confidence alone is no longer enough - modern consumers want proof that you have safeguards in place.If you work in real estate, lead a brokerage, or care about how AI is reshaping high-trust industries, this is essential listening. It's a wake-up call about the future of the business and a reminder that in an AI world, trust is becoming the ultimate competitive advantage.You'll learn about:• The difference between fraud detection and fraud-resistant design• Why "recognition is not authentication"• The Transaction Trust Ceremony• Transaction verification passphrases• The Two-Channel Rule• Why financial instructions should never change by email alone• Protecting employees from AI-powered social engineering• Protecting your digital identity• Creating a Zero-Trust Closing• The S.T.O.P. fraud-prevention framework• Five changes REALTORS® can make immediately• Risk-tiering transactions for attorneys, lenders and title companiesAnd remember the simplest rule from this episode:MONEY MOVES = TWO CHANNELS.If money is moving or financial instructions suddenly change, stop and independently verify before acting.If this episode could protect one agent, buyer, seller, lender or closing professional from fraud, share it with someone in the industry.#RealEstate #ArtificialIntelligence #AIFraud #RealEstateFraud #WireFraud #Cybersecurity #Realtor #RealEstateAgent #ClosingAttorney #MortgageFraud #Deepfake #RealEstateTechnology #DishinDirtDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWhat was it like to build a career in radio when every conversation had the power to bring people together?This week on Here's What We Know, we welcome veteran broadcaster George Lindsey, whose remarkable career began at just 15 years old behind a radio microphone. George shares unforgettable stories from decades in broadcasting, remembers the legendary entertainers he met, and reflects on how radio created friendships that lasted a lifetime. He also opens up about his passion for charity auctions, explaining why helping communities has become one of the most rewarding chapters of his career. Join us as we explore the lasting value of curiosity, meaningful conversations, and the simple joy of connecting with people. Listen now.In This Episode:How George Lindsey got his start in radio as a teenagerWhat made the golden age of radio so memorableStories about legendary musicians, entertainers, and life behind the microphoneWhy building genuine relationships mattered more than ratingsHow charity auctions became an unexpected callingLessons about service, gratitude, and staying curious throughout lifeWhy authentic conversations continue to matter in every generationThis episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Reed Animal Hospital Bio:George Lindsey spent decades behind the microphone as an award-winning radio personality, delivering ratings, results, and memorable moments. Four years ago, after graduating from auction school and earning his auctioneer's license, he traded the studio for the stage, where he now energizes audiences as a professional emcee and benefit auctioneer.Alongside his wife, George also leads unforgettable small-group journeys across Europe's most iconic destinations, helping empty nesters, solo travelers, and reluctant adventurers experience the trip of a lifetime.Whether he's driving excitement at a fundraising auction, guiding travelers through Europe, or sharing stories that connect people, George's passion is creating experiences that matter.Website: https://www.lindsey-adventures.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-lindsey-auctioneer/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgelindseyofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/george.lindsey/Tags: Golden Age of Radio, Radio History, Classic Radio, Broadcasting, Radio Personality, George Lindsey, Gary Scott Thomas, Here's What We Know Podcast, Storytelling, Great Storytelling, Human Connection, Meaningful Conversations, Life Lessons, Career in Radio, Behind the Microphone, Radio Industry, Radio Memories, Communication Skills, Media Careers, Podcast Interview, Broadcast Journalism, Entertainment Industry, Charity Auctions, Community Service, Building Relationships, Personal Growth, Inspiring Stories, Nostalgic Stories, Legendary Entertainers, Music Industry Stories, Radio Legends, Authentic Conversations, Podcast About Radio, History of Radio Broadcasting, Lessons from Broadcasting, Storytelling Podcast, Interview with George Lindsey, Best Radio StoriesConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailLong before Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson got credit for starting outlaw country, Johnny Cash was already living it. This episode of Once Around the Country traces how a poor farm boy from Arkansas, born with only initials for a name, became the man behind one of the most legendary live albums ever recorded.The episode covers Johnny's growing outlaw reputation, his arrests, his drug use, and the empathy he developed for the men he met behind bars. That empathy led to a dream he chased for over a decade: recording a live album inside Folsom State Prison. Record executives thought it was a terrible idea. Johnny thought it might save his career.On January 13, 1968, Johnny Cash walked into Folsom State Prison alongside June Carter, the Statler Brothers, Carl Perkins, and his backing band the Tennessee Three. He recorded a concert that revived his career and became one of Rolling Stone's top 500 albums of all time.In This Episode:Why Johnny Cash wasn't actually born "Johnny"The tragedy that shaped his childhoodHow Sun Records changed his careerThe surprising reason he always wore blackJohnny Cash's arrests and drug strugglesWhy Folsom Prison became his greatest performanceHow Merle Haggard's life changed after seeing Johnny performWhy At Folsom Prison still ranks among the greatest live albums ever madeThis episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Reed Animal Hospital Bio:Johnny Cash (born J.R. Cash, February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003) was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and musician. Known as "The Man in Black," he blended country, rockabilly, rock and roll, folk, and gospel. He sold over 90 million records, earned 13 Grammy Awards, and was inducted into both the Country Music and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame.Tags: Johnny Cash At Folsom Prison, Folsom Prison Blues, Country Music History, Outlaw Country, Classic Country, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, June Carter, Sun Records, Sam Phillips, Tennessee Two, Music History, American Music, Country Legends, Live Albums, Once Around the Country, Gary Scott Thomas, Here's What We Know, Storytelling, Biography, Historical Podcast, Society and Culture, Music PodcastConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailIs AI about to create the biggest wave of real estate fraud we've ever seen?Most real estate professionals are still worried about wire fraud. But that's yesterday's scam.In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I explore how artificial intelligence is changing the criminal playbook—and why every REALTOR®, broker, lender, closing attorney, title company, appraiser, home inspector, and homebuyer needs to rethink how they verify information.From deepfake phone calls and cloned voices to fake sellers, AI-generated documents, QR code wire scams, synthetic identities, and the frightening possibility of AI Transaction Hijacking, this episode examines where the industry is headed and what professionals can do now to protect themselves and their clients.Topics include:AI seller impersonation and vacant land fraudQR code wire fraud and business email compromiseDeepfake calls from "closing attorneys" and lendersSocial media account hijackingFake proof-of-funds lettersRecovery scams targeting previous victimsRemote online notarization fraudRental listing scamsAI-generated appraisal and inspection fraudBuilder incentive fraud and fiduciary risksSynthetic identity mortgage fraudAI Transaction Hijacking—the next generation of real estate crimeChapters00:00 Introduction to AI-driven real estate fraud threats02:02 How AI enhances traditional real estate scams03:49 Impersonation of sellers and fake IDs07:14 QR code wire fraud and its dangers09:58 Voice cloning and social media hijacking14:05 Manipulation of appraisal and inspection reports19:12 Synthetic identities and mortgage fraud24:53 AI transaction hijacking and future risksWhether you're a real estate agent, attorney, lender, appraiser, inspector, or consumer, this episode will change the way you think about trust in a real estate transaction.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when two old friends reconnect after more than three decades?This week on Here's What We Know, our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes longtime Colorado radio personality Dave Jensen for a conversation filled with laughter, memories, and honest reflections about a business they both love.They revisit their days together at TRI 102.5 in Northern Colorado, swap stories that have only gotten better with time, and talk about how a radio career has changed over the years. Gary shares why getting fired became one of the greatest blessings of his life, while Dave reflects on staying in one market long enough to become part of the community's story.This conversation is about friendship, resilience, finding joy in your work, and realizing that the people who cross your path often leave a bigger mark than you ever imagined. Listen now.In This Episode:Reconnecting after more than 30 yearsBehind-the-scenes stories from Colorado radioWhy local radio still mattersHow getting fired changed Gary's life foreverFunny memories from TRI 102.5Dave Jensen's award-winning careerThe future of radio and streamingWhy local, human content still beats syndicated contentWhy relationships outlast careersThis episode is sponsored by:Bison Junk RemovalMike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)License #: 679261Bio:Dave Jensen was born in Paterson, New Jersey, but moved to Colorado (in the back window of his parents' VW 1968) when he was 12 months old and has lived in the area ever since. Dave worked at Runza in Loveland when he was younger and still enjoys stopping now and then for an Original Runza. Dave is currently the longest-tenured employee in the Townsquare Media Northern Colorado office at 600 Main St. in Windsor, having worked here since 1997. Dave was awarded ‘Best Afternoon Show/Major Market' by the Colorado Broadcasters Association (CBA) in 2025; RETRO 102.5 was awarded ‘Station of the Year' in 2022. He has family in the area, with his brother living in Fort Collins and a nephew in Eaton. Dave loves movies, disc golf, movies, great TV, the local craft beers around Fort Collins, and all things radio.Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailThe battle over private listings, office exclusives, MLS access, and who controls real estate inventory has officially reached Washington.In this episode I examine why Congress has launched an inquiry into Compass CEO Robert Reffkin and MRED, and why this investigation could reshape the future of residential real estate.For more than a year, I have argued that the biggest issue facing the real estate industry isn't commissions, buyer agency, or artificial intelligence—it's who controls the inventory. Now the House Judiciary Committee is asking many of the same questions.This episode explains what the July 22 congressional letters actually say, why Congress is interested in Compass' private listing strategy, and what it could mean for REALTORS®, brokers, MLSs, Zillow, Homes.com, Rocket, Redfin, buyers, sellers, title companies, lenders, and consumers.You'll also learn why this debate extends far beyond Compass and private listings. This is really about data ownership, vertical integration, competition, consumer choice, fair housing, antitrust law, and the future of the real estate marketplace.• Why Congress is investigating Compass and MRED• Robert Reffkin's three-phase marketing strategy• Why inventory—not commissions—is the industry's most valuable asset• The battle between Compass, Zillow, MLSs and portals• How private listings affect competition• Fair Housing concerns• Antitrust implications• Why data is becoming more valuable than commissions• Vertical integration and why everyone wants to own the consumer relationship• What this means for REALTORS®, brokers and consumers• Four possible outcomes from the Congressional inquiryCHAPTERS00:00 I Told You So01:35 Congress Enters the Real Estate Fight03:56 Why This Matters04:44 How We Got Here06:15 Compass' Private Listing Strategy08:40 Zillow, MLSs & Consumer Groups Push Back10:10 What Jim Jordan's Letter Really Says13:20 Why Congress is Looking at Competition15:35 Steering, Incentives & Vertical Integration18:00 Is This Really About Data?22:40 What It Means for South Carolina26:40 Four Possible Outcomes29:30 The Future of Real Estate32:55 Final Thoughts34:30 ClosingWhether you agree with Compass or not, this investigation has the potential to influence how homes are marketed for years to come.If you're a REALTOR®, broker, attorney, lender, title professional, appraiser, or anyone involved in residential real estate, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss.What do YOU think?Should sellers have the unrestricted right to market homes privately?Or should every consumer have equal access to every available home?Leave your opinion below.

Send us Fan MailIf radio ever felt personal to you, this episode will bring back a lot of memories.This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with Chicago radio legend Garry Meier, one half of the iconic Steve and Garry afternoon show that defined a generation of radio listeners. Garry opens up about how Larry Lujack's sarcasm on WLS first pulled him toward broadcasting, what it was actually like to work alongside his childhood radio hero, and the story that sparked his on-air partnership with Steve Dahl.The conversation moves into the night that made Garry Meier a piece of American pop culture history: Disco Demolition Night at Comiskey Park, where a stunt built around smashing records grew into a forfeited baseball game and international news coverage. Garry pushes back on how the event has been reframed over the decades and explains what he actually witnessed that summer night in 1979.From there, the two Garys talk about the business side of broadcasting: why big radio companies loaded themselves with debt buying up stations, why hiring managers now care more about a resume than a demo tape, and why podcasting has become the format radio should have evolved into decades ago.If you remember what radio felt like before it became all business and no personality, you're going to enjoy this one. Listen now!In This Episode:How Larry Lujack's WLS show inspired an entire generation of radio hostsThe real story behind meeting a childhood hero and finding out they're humanHow the Steve and Garry partnership started with an offhand comment about gas pricesThe night of Disco Demolition Night and what actually happened at Comiskey ParkWhy the disco backlash has been mischaracterized in the years sinceWhat went wrong with corporate radio consolidation after FCC ownership rules changedWhy podcasting outperforms traditional radio for long-form conversationBehind-the-scenes stories with Sam Kinison, Albert Brooks, Garry Marshall, and Paul McCartneyGarry Meier's induction into the Radio Hall of FameThis episode is sponsored by:Dignity MemorialReed Animal Hospital Bio:Garry Meier is a Radio Hall of Fame inductee and one of Chicago's most celebrated radio personalities. His legendary career includes groundbreaking partnerships with Steve Dahl, multiple No. 1 radio shows, five A.I.R. Awards for Best Afternoon Talk Show, and recognition by Talkers Magazine as one of America's most influential talk show hosts. Today, Garry brings the same sharp wit, curiosity, and engaging storytelling to The Garry Meier Show, where he continues to entertain audiences with thoughtful conversations, humor, and commentary on life and current events.Website: https://garrymeier.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garry-meier-571478187/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGarryMeierShow/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/garrforceliveConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailShould every home be listed on the MLS? Or are office exclusive listings actually in the seller's best interest?The battle over private listings, office exclusives, and Clear Cooperation has become the biggest controversy in residential real estate. Compass, Zillow, Redfin, Homes.com, and the National Association of REALTORS® are all at the center of a debate that could fundamentally change how homes are bought and sold in America.In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I take a deep dive into NAR's newly released Office Exclusive & Pre-Marketing Guidance and explain what every REALTOR®, broker, and seller needs to know.This isn't another opinion piece. It's a practical walkthrough of what NAR's guidance actually says—and what it means for your fiduciary duties to your clients.I will explain: Why NAR issued this guidance now  The difference between Office Exclusives, Coming Soon, and Pre-Marketing When an office exclusive may truly be in a seller's best interest  The broker's fiduciary duties under Article 1 of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics  Required seller disclosures and informed consent  One-to-one broker communications and Clear Cooperation compliance  Why NAR devoted an entire section to defending the MLS  The real question every listing broker should ask before recommending an office exclusive  How South Carolina's recent guidance aligns with NAR's national position  Why transparency—not technology—is the real issue shaping the future of real estate Whether you're a REALTOR®, broker, attorney, MLS executive, appraiser, or simply interested in the future of residential real estate, this episode will help you understand one of the most important industry issues of 2026.Do office exclusives protect sellers—or do they reduce transparency and competition? Listen and decide for yourself.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to stay at the top of country music for five decades?This week on Here's What We Know, country music legend T.G. Sheppard joins us for a heartfelt conversation about the people, moments, and songs that shaped his remarkable career.T.G. shares unforgettable stories about his friendship with Elvis Presley, including the chance meeting that changed his life forever. He reflects on life on the road, the physical demands of touring, the songs that almost never happened, and why longevity comes down to more than talent.We'll also talk about John Denver, Roger Miller, Sonny Throckmorton, Judy Collins, songwriting, record labels, and the magic that happens when the right song finds the right artist.If you love country music history, behind-the-scenes stories, and conversations that remind us why great songs stay with us for generations, this episode is a must-listen!In This Episode:Life on tour buses and the real cost of the road on a 50-year careerWhy so many artists battle throat and vocal problemsThe night T.G. met Elvis Presley outside a roller rink as a runaway kidWhat Elvis was like as a person, away from the fameTG's years as a record executive working with Waylon Jennings and John DenverHow "I Loved 'Em Every One" sat in a vault for ten years before it became a hitSonny Throckmorton and the songwriters who shaped the sound of country musicThe Roger Miller story behind "Last Cheater's Waltz"Recording "Home Again" with Judy CollinsWhat it means to have longevity in the music businessThis episode is sponsored by:Bison Junk Removal Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261Bio:T.G. Sheppard is one of country music's enduring legends, with 21 number one hits and a career spanning more than 50 years. Known for classics like "Last Cheater's Waltz," "I Loved 'Em Every One," "Party Time," and "Do You Wanna Go to Heaven," he continues to captivate audiences with the same passion that first brought him to Nashville as a teenager. Along the way, he built a close friendship with Elvis Presley, who gave him his first tour bus, helped shape the careers of countless artists as a record executive, and earned his place among country music's top 100 artists of all time. Today, TG is still touring, sharing timeless songs and unforgettable stories with fans across the country.Website: https://www.tgsheppard.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tgsheppard/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tgsheppardofficial/Tags: TG Sheppard interview, Elvis Presley stories, country music podcast, Last Cheater's Waltz story, TG Sheppard Elvis friendship, country music legends interview,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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Send us Fan MailIf you grew up falling asleep to the radio under your pillow, hoping your parents wouldn't catch you, this one's for you.This week on Here's What We Know, we welcome the legendary Mark Thompson of Mark & Brian for a conversation that goes way past the usual radio war stories.We'll talk about the moment a program director named Bob Kagan changed Mark's entire approach to broadcasting with six words. The night in Birmingham that led to the partnership with Brian and how a five-dollar raise pushed Mark straight into the arms of Los Angeles radio. We'll also talk about the parts of the journey that don't usually make it into an interview: Mark's mother and the words she said to him that carried him through the hardest years, what it costs to build a career while raising a family, and why he still believes credit belongs to whoever earns it.This one is funny, it's honest, and by the end, you'll understand exactly why Mark Thompson is on Gary's short list of broadcasting legends.In this episode:How a boll weevil statue in Enterprise, Alabama connects two radio careersThe six words from Bob Kagan that changed Mark's career foreverHow Mark and Brian found their way to Los Angeles almost by accidentThe life-changing advice Mark received from his motherWhy sharing your real life creates lasting connections with an audienceThe story behind Mark's memoir, Don't Bump the Record, Kid, and why every dollar he earns from the book supports animal rescueThis episode is sponsored by:Sterling Oak CabinetryReed Animal Hospital Bio:Mark Thompson is a legendary radio personality, author, and storyteller best known as one-half of the iconic Mark & Brian Morning Show. Alongside Brian Phelps, he spent 25 years entertaining millions of listeners on Los Angeles' KLOS-FM, helping redefine morning radio with unforgettable comedy, creative stunts, and authentic storytelling. The show's success led to national syndication, television appearances, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1997.A native of Florence, Alabama, Thompson began his broadcasting career in the South before making the leap to Los Angeles in 1987. Throughout his career, he became known not only for his quick wit and creativity, but also for his ability to connect with listeners through honest, personal stories that made audiences feel like part of the conversation.In 2022, Thompson released his acclaimed memoir, Don't Bump the Record, Kid: My Adventures with Mark & Brian, offering an honest and entertaining look at his remarkable career, the behind-the-scenes realities of one of America's most successful morning shows, and the personal experiences that shaped his life both on and off the air.Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailWhat if we've been asking the wrong question about America's housing crisis?Congress has passed one of the most significant housing bills in decades, with the stated goal of making housing more affordable by encouraging more construction, higher-density development, and changes to local zoning policies. But is building more homes really the solution?In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I take a non-political, fact-based look at what the legislation actually does, how it could influence local communities, and why every homeowner, REALTOR®, builder, and buyer should understand the issues.Topics include:What is actually in the new federal housing billWhy zoning has traditionally been controlled by local governmentsHow federal incentives could influence future developmentThe debate over higher-density housing and neighborhood characterInfrastructure, traffic, schools, and who pays for growthDoes South Carolina really have a housing shortage?Are housing shortages different in the South than in the Northeast and West Coast?Why builders across South Carolina are offering incentives, rate buydowns, and price reductionsThe difference between a housing shortage and a homeownership affordability crisisThe one question every policymaker, REALTOR®, and homeowner should be askingWhether you support the legislation or have concerns about its long-term impact, this episode is designed to educate—not advocate. I will explore both sides of the debate while challenging listeners to think critically about the future of housing, property rights, local control, and the American Dream of homeownership.What do you think?Does South Carolina actually have a housing shortage?Should zoning decisions remain local, or should the federal government play a larger role in encouraging housing development?And most importantly...Have we confused a housing shortage with a homeownership crisis?Share your thoughts in the comments—we'd love to hear from you.

Send us Fan MailMost people expect a conversation about death to feel heavy. This one feels surprisingly hopeful.This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with Mike Oppenheim, host of the podcast Coffin Talk, for a conversation about fatherhood, grief, faith, forgiveness, and the question every person eventually asks: What happens when we die?Mike shares the heartbreaking story of losing his son, how he found healing without living in anger, and why spending years with hospice patients changed everything he believed about what matters most.Whether you share these beliefs or not, you'll find something meaningful in this episode.In This Episode:Growing up in Berkeley and the culture that shaped Mike's early yearsHow a spur-of-the-moment college application sent him to the University of PittsburghThe custody battle and international parental child abduction that took his son to ThailandWorking through the U.S. State Department and the reality of cross-border custody casesVolunteering at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix and choosing the dementia wardWhy hospice families struggle more than the patients themselvesThe origin story of the Coffin Talk podcastAmerica's discomfort with aging and mortality compared to other culturesFaith, fear, and why anger never solves anythingBlended family life, his current wife, and his two young daughtersThe moment his daughter finally got to talk to her brother This episode is sponsored by:Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261  Bison Junk Removal Bio:Mike Oppenheim is an author, speaker, and the creator of the Coffin Talk podcast, where he asks guests one timeless question: What do you think happens when you die? After experiencing profound personal loss, Mike found purpose in hospice volunteering and helping others have honest conversations about life, death, grief, and hope. Through his writing and podcast, he encourages people to live with greater compassion, curiosity, and appreciation for the time we have.Substack: https://mikeyopp.substack.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeyopp38/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mikeyoppLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-oppenheim-8a5562186/Tags: what happens when we die, grief, loss, healing, parental alienation, international child abduction, fatherhood, hospice, end of life, faith, purpose, podcast interview, Coffin Talk Podcast, personal growth, storytelling, meaningful conversations, forgiveness, hope, mortalityConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailWhat really happened in the months leading up to the Declaration of Independence?Most of us learned the broad strokes of the American Revolution in school. Professor Robert G. Parkinson believes the real story is far more interesting and far more human.In this special episode of Here's What We Know, we sit down with the Binghamton University historian and author to explore the uncertainty, political disagreements, personal conflicts, and difficult decisions that shaped America's founding.We'll discuss why independence was never guaranteed, why many colonists remained loyal to Britain, what really happened during the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, and how George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and King George III become far more fascinating once you see them as people instead of monuments.The conversation also explores what we can learn from the nation's earliest struggles, why democracy has always been difficult, and why history still matters 250 years later.In This EpisodeWhy independence was never a sure thingThe surprising divisions among the coloniesWhat Thomas Jefferson was doing while writing the DeclarationWhy George Washington walked away from powerThe role newspapers played in shaping public opinionWhat America might look like if Britain had wonThe lessons the Revolutionary generation still offers todayThis special episode is sponsored by:Dignity Memorial Sterling Oak CabinetryReed Animal Hospital  Bison Junk RemovalMike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter License #: 679261Bio:Robert G. Parkinson is a professor of history at Binghamton University and an award-winning historian specializing in the American Revolution and the nation's founding. He is the author of three acclaimed books, The Common Cause, Thirteen Clocks, and Heart of American Darkness. His research explores the people, politics, and pivotal moments that shaped early America, helping bring the nation's history to life for modern audiences.Tags:  American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, Founding Fathers, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Revolutionary War, American history podcast, Fourth of July history, U.S. history, democracy, Constitution, colonial America, King George III, history interview, July 4th,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailAre real estate administrative fees the next major lawsuit facing the industry?A new lawsuit against Compass in Florida is raising serious questions about transaction fees, administrative fees, brokerage fees, and transparency. Could this be the next legal battleground after the NAR settlement and Sitzer/Burnett?In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked charges in residential real estate—the administrative fee. Is it truly reimbursement for administrative costs, or is it simply additional brokerage compensation? More importantly, how might courts, regulators, juries, and consumers view these fees in today's environment of increased transparency?You'll learn:Why the new Compass lawsuit could impact the entire real estate industryThe legal theories plaintiffs are using to challenge administrative feesThe difference between commissions, transaction fees, and administrative feesHow fiduciary duty and transparency affect brokerage pricingWhether separate fees could create advertising or disclosure issuesWhat South Carolina law says about honesty and misrepresentation in real estateQuestions every broker should ask before charging an administrative feePractical risk management strategies to help reduce future litigationWhether you're a REALTOR®, broker, attorney, team leader, or real estate professional, this episode will challenge you to think differently about how fees are disclosed, explained, and perceived by consumers.The goal of this episode is not to criticize any brokerage or suggest that administrative fees are unlawful. Instead, it's to explore the important legal, ethical, and business questions every brokerage should be asking in an industry where transparency has never mattered more.If you enjoy educational real estate content that goes beyond the headlines, be sure to subscribe, like, and share this episode with your office. New episodes of Dishin' Dirt explore the biggest legal, business, and technology issues shaping the future of real estate. Chapters00:00 Understanding Administrative Fees in Real Estate02:11 The Legal Landscape of Transaction Fees05:02 The Importance of Transparency in Real Estate11:02 Consumer Expectations and Fee Structures18:48 The Role of Fiduciary Duty in Fee Disclosure26:02 Looking Ahead: The Future of Administrative FeesDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWhat keeps someone creating after the industry changes, the paycheck shrinks, and the path gets harder?This week on Here's What We Know, we welcome comedian, producer, and podcaster Deadair Dennis Maler for an honest conversation about radio, stand-up comedy, podcasting, and the lifelong search for your own voice.Dennis shares how growing up in punk rock shaped his do-it-yourself mindset, why radio first captured his imagination, and what eventually pushed him toward stand-up comedy and podcasting. We'll talk about creativity, authenticity, representation, and how staying true to yourself might be the only business model that works anymore.If you've ever wondered whether you're on the right path or you've questioned whether it's worth continuing to create, this conversation will remind you why the work still matters.In This EpisodeHow Dennis went from punk rock DIY culture to radio to stand-up to podcastingThe story of radio consultants who made everyone talk the same way for 10 seconds at a timeThe one thing that separates successful creators from those who burn outHow Dennis's tour guide job in Boston became his favorite platformThe reality of building a creative careerThe real numbers: why most podcasts die, and how to build one that doesn'tWhat it actually takes to grind out content every single dayThis episode is sponsored by:Dignity MemorialSterling Oak Cabinetry(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)Bio:Deadair Dennis Maler is a comedian, actor, writer, & podcaster who has been heard on radio stations throughout the country including SiriusXM, DC101, The Party Playhouse with Jackson Blue, and more.He has been featured on comedy festivals throughout the country, is the Comedy Editor for DigBoston, and hosts the Big Comedy Network podcast So, What Do You Really Do? and the YouTube show Word of the Day with Comedians.Deadair Dennis is funny, loud, abrasively social, and allergy-free since 1981.Website: https://deadairdennis.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadairdennis/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deadairdennismaler/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deadairdennisTags: comedy, podcast, radio broadcasting, podcasting, stand up comedy, creative career, finding your voice, storytelling, entertainment industry, radio personality, podcast interview, creativity, comedians, independent, creators, creative journey, DIY creativity, producer,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

On our most replayed episode, Gary ‘Vee' Vaynerchuk talks about how being scrappy wasn't just a choice for him; it was his only way forward. After years of growing his family's wine business, he was left with nothing of his own. With no money to rent an office or hire employees, Gary leveraged his grit, relationships, and opportunities to launch VaynerMedia. Overcoming the financial, mental, and emotional hurdles of entrepreneurship, he built his company into a multi-million-dollar media empire. In this episode, Gary joins Ilana to reveal the mindset and strategies you need to overcome obstacles and build your own multi-million-dollar business. Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. In this episode, Ilana and Gary will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:40) VaynerMedia's Scrappy Beginnings (06:56) Why Businesses Fail Financially (10:01) Navigating Tough Business Days (17:21) The Risk of Over-Transparency in Leadership (19:44) Dealing with Failure and Public Ridicule (22:10) GaryVee's Dream of Owning the New York Jets (26:06) The Role of DNA and Accountability in Success (28:35) Finding Joy in Entrepreneurship (31:02) How to Build a Personal Brand as an Employee (32:30) Empowering Employees with Honest Feedback (34:27) Embracing Change and Executing Relentlessly Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. He is a prolific angel investor with early investments in companies like Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Venmo, Snapchat, Coinbase, and Uber. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. Connect with Gary: Gary's Website: ⁠garyvaynerchuk.com⁠  Gary's LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/garyvaynerchuk⁠  Resources Mentioned: Gary's Book, Day Trading Attention: How to Actually Build Brand and Sales in the New Social Media World: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Day-Trading-Attention-Actually-Social/dp/0063317591⁠  GaryVee: From Earning $2 an Hour to Running a $350M Digital Empire: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/garyvee-from-earning-%242-an-hour-to-running-a/id1701718200?i=1000689595539⁠  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at⁠ leapacademy.com/training

Send us Fan MailIs Google about to change real estate forever?For years, Zillow, Realtor.com, Homes.com, and brokerage websites have dominated the home search experience. But what happens when Google stops being a search engine and starts becoming an AI-powered real estate advisor?In this episode, we explore one of the biggest "what if" scenarios in real estate: What if Google bought Zillow? More importantly, does Google even need Zillow anymore?We dive into Google's AI platform NotebookLM, how artificial intelligence is transforming online search, and why many experts believe the future of the internet is moving from "search results" to direct answers. If buyers can simply ask AI where to live, what house to buy, which neighborhood fits their lifestyle, and which agent to hire, what happens to Zillow, Realtor.com, brokerages, and traditional lead generation?In this episode we discuss:• What Google NotebookLM is and why it matters• How AI is changing the future of search• Why Google may be entering the real estate business• Whether Google could realistically acquire Zillow• How a Google-Zillow combination would impact agents and brokerages• What happens to Realtor.com, Homes.com, and other portals• The future of lead generation and online marketing• Whether federal regulators would block a Google-Zillow merger on antitrust grounds• Why the biggest threat may not be AI replacing agents—but AI replacing portalsWhether you're a real estate agent, broker, lender, investor, or simply curious about the future of technology and housing, this conversation will help you understand where the industry may be headed next.What do you think? Will Google eventually become the dominant platform in real estate? Let us know in the comments.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWhat can golf teach you about life?This week on Here's What We Know, former PGA Tour professional Jay Delsing joins us to share lessons from 25 years competing at the highest level of golf.From stories about Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus to conversations about failure, resilience, mental toughness, and what separates elite athletes from everyone else. We also discuss why parents should encourage their kids to dream bigger than they think is possible.This conversation explores what it takes to perform under pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and keep moving forward when things don't go your way.Whether you're a golfer, an athlete, a parent, or someone working toward a goal, this episode offers practical lessons about perseverance, competition, and living with purpose.In This Episode:Why talent alone doesn't cut it at the highest levels of competitionHow to handle pressure without losing your mind (or your game)What his UCLA golf team taught him about grit and heartThat mansion story: how a stranger picked him up at LAX and changed everythingWhy he wouldn't change a thing about his career, even with all the lossesWhat parents get wrong when they push their kids toward elite sportsHis four daughters, volleyball, and recognizing gifts you can't measurePlaying golf with Sean Connery, Tiger Woods comparisons, and Jack Nicklaus's brainWhy your kids need to fail, get uncomfortable, and learn they can survive disappointmentThe difference between being competitive and being a jerk about itHis book, his stories, and the relationship that shaped everything This episode is sponsored by: Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261 Bison Junk Removal (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!) Bio:Jay Delsing is a former PGA Tour professional, broadcaster, author, and host of the nationally syndicated Golf with Jay Delsing radio show and podcast. After more than 25 years competing at the highest levels of golf, Jay now shares stories and lessons from a lifetime in the game, offering insights on competition, perseverance, and what it takes to thrive under pressure. His journey has taken him from UCLA to the PGA Tour and into conversations with some of the biggest names in sports.Website: https://jaydelsinggolf.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaydelsinggolf/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-delsing-83142914/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@golfwithjaydelsing4826Tags: Jay Delsing, Jay Delsing podcast, PGA Tour, Professional golf, Golf podcast, Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Golf stories, Sports podcast, Golf lessons, Failure and success,  Parenting athletes, , Sports and life lessons, performance under pressureGary Scott Thomas, sports psychology, grit, talent,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailMost Realtors have never heard of UAD 3.6—but it may be the biggest change to residential appraisal reporting in the last 15 years.In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, Gary Pickren breaks down what UAD 3.6 is, why Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are completely redesigning the appraisal reporting process, and what it means for Realtors, buyers, sellers, lenders, and appraisers.More importantly, Gary explains what agents need to do right now to better prepare listings, communicate value, and stay ahead of a rapidly changing real estate industry.You'll learn:✅ What UAD 3.6 actually is✅ Why appraisal forms are being replaced✅ How appraisal reporting is moving from forms to data✅ Whether UAD 3.6 will affect home values✅ How AI and technology are changing the appraisal industry✅ The biggest mistakes Realtors will make regarding UAD 3.6✅ How to create better appraisal packages✅ Why documenting upgrades and property features matters more than ever✅ How South Carolina Realtors can use these changes to better serve their clientsChapters00:00 Introduction to UAD 3.6 and its industry significance01:51 Historical context: Appraisal reporting since 200803:45 The shift from forms to data in real estate05:36 How AI and technology are transforming appraisals07:25 What changes with UAD 3.6: Standardized data collection09:21 Implications for appraisers and real estate agents11:38 Will UAD 3.6 affect home values?13:30 Common myths about UAD 3.6 and industry misconceptions15:22 Practical steps for real estate agents to adapt17:16 How to read and interpret appraisal reports19:30 Preparing clients and documentation for appraisal success21:25 Predictions for the future of appraisal technology23:16 Key takeaways and industry outlookWhether you're a Realtor, broker, lender, appraiser, closing attorney, investor, or simply interested in the future of real estate, this episode will help you understand one of the most significant industry changes currently underway.

Send us Fan MailWhat keeps a person moving forward after loss, trauma, disappointment, and heartbreak?This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with country music artist Michael Peterson, known for hits like Drink, Swear, Steal and Lie, From Here to Eternity, and When the Bartender Cries.Michael shares the story behind the music, how he survived a childhood marked by abuse, loss, and learning challenges. He almost gave up on music twice, and then one phone call came right when he needed it most.We also talk about what Michael calls "The Habit of Hope," a simple but powerful practice that helped him keep going when life gave him every reason to quit.Michael went on to become a platinum artist in country music, a published author of eight books, and someone who's performed for deployed service members across three continents. But his real story starts much earlier, and it's about learning to see 50 feet ahead when you can't see 50 miles.If you've ever questioned whether your hard work is worth it, this episode is for you.In This Episode:Overcoming childhood trauma and finding meaningWhy "overnight success" took 25 yearsThe habit of hope and how to redirect your thoughtsWhat happens when you almost give up right before your breakthroughWhy learning disabilities don't define youHow to keep making art when nobody's watchingThe power of second seasons in life and careerWhy you might have already done your best work and don't know it yetThis episode is sponsored by:Dignity MemorialBio:Michael Peterson is a country music artist, singer-songwriter, author, and speaker. He's had multiple hit records, including "Drink, Swear, Steal and Lie," "From Here to Eternity," and "When the Bartender Cries." He's written or co-authored eight books and has performed over 300 shows for deployed service members. His new albums, "Down on the Farm" and "We Are Veterans," are being released commercially for the first time through Star Vista Records.Website: https://www.michaelpetersonmusic.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpetersonmusic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.peterson.106YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc30Jzs0yP_UbAFa3prIJxwTags:  Michael Peterson, The Habit of Hope, Overcoming Trauma, Resilience, Personal Growth, Country Music, Faith, Perseverance, Mental Health, Motivation, Life Lessons, Singer Songwriter, Nashville, Inspiration, Hope, Drink Swear Steal and LieConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailBuilders are shifting legal risk directly onto buyer agents — and most agents don't see it coming until it's too late. In this episode, real estate attorney and SC Real Estate Commissioner Gary Pickren breaks down five builder practices that create serious liability for buyer agents and brokers in charge.What's covered:Builder bonuses and commission steering — why that $10,000 check could cost you your licenseEscalating volume incentives and why every client in your pipeline is now at riskThe builder compensation agreement designed to override your buyer agency agreement (and why it may violate SC law)Inflated contract prices with large cash credits — and why this looks like market manipulationWhy dropping your buyer off at the builder's sales office is an agency liability waiting to happenThis isn't anti-builder. It's pro-agent. Know the risks before you're answering for them under oath. key  topicsBuilder bonuses and incentivesInterference with buyer agency agreementsMarket manipulation through price creditsLegal and ethical risks for real estate agentsStrategies for agent risk managementChapters00:00 Introduction to Builder Risks02:33 Understanding Builder Bonuses09:33 Escalating Compensation and Its Implications17:34 Builder Interference with Agency Agreements26:00 The Role of Buyer Agents30:00 Preferred Lender Pressure and Buyer Representation

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the thing you love most becomes the thing you can never completely walk away from?This week on Here's What We Know, conductor and pianist Robert Emery returns for a conversation about creativity, music, and the curious ways our minds work. From practice rooms to Abbey Road Studios, Robert shares what life is really like for a professional musician, why creative people often struggle to switch off, and what he's learned from spending a lifetime immersed in music.Gary and Robert also trade stories about family, parenting, travel, questionable hotel experiences, and the challenges that come with building a career around passion. They explore the lives of Mozart, Franz Liszt, and Berlioz, uncovering the very human struggles, quirks, and triumphs behind some of history's most celebrated composers.Robert also shares the story behind Orchestral Meditations, his latest project featuring meditation music recorded at Abbey Road Studios with a full symphony orchestra and choir.In This Episode:• Why musicians never really leave work behind• The truth about practicing and mastering a craft• What Mozart and Michael Jackson may have had in common• How creativity affects everyday life• Stories from Abbey Road Studios• The fascinating history of Franz Liszt and musical celebrity• Why travel helps reset the mind This episode is sponsored by: Reed Animal Hospital Bio:Robert Emery is a conductor, pianist, and serial entrepreneur. He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in London's Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, Robert has seen them all.Besides music, he is the Founder & Director of The Arts Group, one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the UK. Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label, and production company.Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs. E), a toddler (Master T), a baby (Master A), and 4 cats.Website: https://robertemery.com/Orchestral Meditation: http://orchestralmeditation.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/robertemeryofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertemeryofficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertemeryofficial/Tags: Robert Emery, Creativity, Classical Music, Professional Musician, Music Career, Mozart, Franz Liszt, Music History, Conducting, Pianist, Abbey Road Studios, Orchestral Meditations, Creative Process, Creative Life, Music Industry, Composers, Arts & Culture, Creativity and Purpose, Work-Life Balance, Performing Arts, Creative Careers, Music Education, Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan Mail"Coming Soon" is a marketing fiction — and it may be costing your seller money while exposing you to lawsuits, MLS sanctions, and fair housing violations.In this episode, Gary Pickren makes the case that a property marketed as "coming soon" has already arrived in the marketplace. The moment you post it on social media, send a text to another agent, or blast an email — that's marketing. And marketing without a signed listing agreement violates South Carolina law.Gary breaks down exactly why "coming soon" is legally, ethically, and practically indefensible:SC law is clear: No marketing without a signed listing agreement — periodMLS rules require listings to be entered within 24–48 hours of signingOffers must be presented the moment they arrive — regardless of "coming soon" statusRestricting access raises antitrust concerns and potential fair housing violationsYour fiduciary duty runs to the seller, not the brokerage — and limiting exposure reduces competition and likely the final sales priceThe SC Real Estate Commission has already issued guidance — ignorance is no defenseIf you think coming soon is a harmless marketing tactic, this episode will change your mind. The same industry that said guaranteed MLS compensation "had always been done that way" just lost a $1.5 billion verdict. Don't make the same mistake twice.This episode is required listening for every SC agent, broker, and team leader.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailWhy are people willing to spend thousands of dollars on concert tickets?Why do fans sit in online queues for hours, refreshing browsers and hoping they get lucky?And why do live experiences still matter so much when we can almost stream everything?This week on Here's What We Know, Michael Dodsworth, CEO and founder of Fanfare, joins us for a conversation that starts with ticketing and eventually reveals something much deeper about human nature.We talk about Taylor Swift, Formula 1, English soccer fandom, sneaker culture, bad actors, live events, and the psychology behind why people care so deeply about the things they love.We explore scarcity, obsession, loyalty, competition, and the strange human need to be part of something shared.Honestly, it's one of my favorite rabbit-hole conversations we've had in a while.In This Episode:Why concert ticketing feels so brokenThe psychology behind scarcity and demandHow Taylor Swift changed the live event businessWhy Formula 1 has exploded in popularityThe difference between loyal fans and casual audiencesWhat sports fandom looks like in England vs. AmericaHow “bad actors” manipulate systemsWhy sneaker culture feels like a secret clubThe hidden emotional power of shared experiencesThis episode is sponsored by: Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261  Bison Junk RemovalBio:Michael Dodsworth is the founder and CEO of Fanfare, a platform that turns product launches, events, and brand collaborations into seamless, memorable experiences—helping brands build lasting customer loyalty and capture actionable insights from every interaction. With a background in infrastructure and high-demand digital systems, Michael combines deep technical expertise with a passion for culture, community, and brand storytelling. His work focuses on helping brands create meaningful customer moments that build loyalty and lasting connections.Website: https://fanfare.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dodsworth/Tags: Michael Dodsworth, live events, concert tickets, Taylor Swift tickets, Formula 1 fandom, sports psychology, customer experience, ticketing industry, event management, fandom culture, sneaker culture, English soccer fans, Gary Scott Thomas, Here's What We Know podcast, scarcity psychology, live entertainment, Formula One, Taylor Swift concertConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailZillow is suing MRED and Compass in a legal battle that could completely reshape the future of real estate listings in America.In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, Gary Pickren breaks down the exploding controversy over private listings, hidden inventory, MLS control, and buyer access to homes. After tens of thousands of Chicago-area listings suddenly disappeared from Zillow, the industry was forced to confront a major question:Who actually controls listing visibility — the seller, the brokerage, the MLS, or the real estate portals?This episode dives into:Zillow's antitrust lawsuit against MRED and CompassWhy 43,000 listings vanished from ZillowThe fight over private and “exclusive” listingsClear Cooperation and delayed marketing rulesWhether hidden listings hurt buyers and sellersWhy brokerages are pushing private inventory strategiesThe ethics and business implications of pocket listingsHow this impacts agents, consumers, and the future of housing transparencyWhether you're a Realtor, broker, investor, homebuyer, or seller, this conversation affects you.Because the real question is no longer just how homes are sold…It's who gets access to them.Subscribe to Dishin' Dirt for weekly conversations on real estate law, industry changes, brokerage strategy, housing trends, and the future of real estate.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailSome people play golf for fun. Joseph Bronson turned it into something deeper.This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with the award-winning author, longtime business executive, world traveler, and passionate golfer for a conversation that starts with golf… but doesn't stay there for long.Joseph has played 93 of the world's most iconic golf courses, teed it up with legends like Arnold Palmer, and spent decades chasing mastery in a game that never fully lets you catch it.And maybe that's the point.We talk about competition, discipline, aging, perspective, and why the mental side of golf has so much to teach us about life itself.There's a moment in this conversation where we land on something that felt bigger than golf: Most people aren't thinking about your mistakes nearly as much as you think they are.Honestly, that might be one of the healthiest things any of us could remember.In This Episode:What it's like playing Augusta, Pebble Beach, and St. AndrewsWhy golf is almost entirely a mental gameThe difference between elite athletes and everyone elseWhat Arnold Palmer was really like off the courseWhy Joseph walked away from golf for a seasonHow First Tee of Silicon Valley helps shape young people through golfThe surprising connection between golf and personal growth This episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!) Bio:Joseph “Joe” Bronson is a longtime business executive, world traveler, and passionate golfer whose career has taken him across the globe and onto some of the most prestigious golf courses in the world. A member of renowned clubs including Monterey Peninsula Country Club, CordeValle, and Boulder Ridge Golf Club, Joe has played 93 of America's Top 100 golf courses, along with legendary courses throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.Joe is also the award-winning author of Pardon Me, Golf Chronicles, and Through the Green, three books inspired by the stories, traditions, humor, and human moments that make golf more than just a game. His writing blends personal experience, thoughtful observation, and a deep appreciation for the culture and character of golf.Website: https://www.josephbronson.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-bronson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjosephbronson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebronsongroup/Tags: golf, golf podcast, Joseph Bronson, golf mindset, mental game, life lessons, personal growth, Arnold Palmer, Pebble Beach, Augusta National, St. Andrews, golf psychology, discipline, resilience, competition, sports and life, First Tee Silicon Valley, sports culture, leadership, perseverance, curiosity, mindset, golf stories, athlete mentality, overcoming failure, Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailCould you be risking a $400,000 deal by not knowing the market? In this episode, Gary Pickren breaks down why local expertise isn't optional — it's a legal and ethical obligation — and how agents operating outside their competency maybe quietly costing clients money they'll never get back.From dock permits on Lake Keowee to FEMA flood zones on the coast, Gary walks through real case studies that show exactly what's at stake when agents chase commissions into markets they don't understand.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest moments in your life come down to one simple decision?Show up.This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with rising country artist and songwriter Kyle Clark for a conversation about faith, songwriting, Nashville, and the unpredictable moments that can change everything.Kyle shares the story behind how one late-night decision to “just show up” led to a song eventually recorded by Blake Shelton after first being held by HARDY and Morgan Wallen.The episode explores creativity, resilience, purpose, and the small moments that shape our lives forever.If you've ever wondered whether the little decisions in life really matter, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the moments that change everything begin with simply walking through the door.In This Episode:How hit country songs are really writtenMoving from Georgia to NashvilleLeaving college to pursue music full-timeLearning to trust timing instead of forcing outcomesWhy great songs sometimes sit for years before finding the right artistThe role faith plays in creativity and songwritingThe emotional reality of chasing a dream in NashvilleWhy vulnerability matters in both music and lifeHow persistence and consistency open unexpected doorsWhy “showing up” became the defining lesson of his careerThis episode is sponsored by: Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) License #: 679261Bison Junk Removal (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)Bio:Kyle Clark is a songwriter, artist, and producer born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and raised in the small town of Jefferson, Georgia. His love for country music, paired with a diverse range of influences and a strong work ethic, has shaped his unique sound. After winning the 101.5 Kicks Radio competition in Atlanta two years in a row, Clark's music caught the attention of hit songwriter and producer Jordan Schmidt (Kane Brown, Tyler Hubbard, Jason Aldean). In 2019, Schmidt offered Clark a joint venture publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing. Within a year, Clark co-wrote his first RIAA-certified Platinum single, “Villain” by Lily Rose. When the global pandemic hit, Clark focused his energy on producing his own music, learning from his mentor Jordan Schmidt and his roommate Jacob Durrett (Morgan Wallen, ERNEST). His dedication paid off in early 2022 when a video of his song went viral on TikTok, driving over 21,000 pre-saves for “Hope It's Hot Out,” which was released on May 27, 2022. The track crossed 1 million streams in its first week and has since amassed over 40 million streams independently across all platforms. In 2024, Clark signed a new publishing deal with Relative Music Group, and has since landed cuts with major country acts including HARDY, Blake Shelton, Dylan Scott, Jon Pardi, Mitchell Tenpenny, Restless Road, Mackenzie Carpenter, Erin Kinsey, and Chayce Beckham.Website: https://www.kyleclarkmusic.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KyleClarkMusicInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyleclarkmusic/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kyleclarkmusicFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KyleClarkMusicTags: Kyle Clark, Gary Scott Thomas podcast, Nashville songwriter interview, country music podcast, Blake Shelton Let Him In Anyway, HARDY songwriter story, Morgan Wallen songwriting, country songwriting process, how hit songs are written, Nashville music industry, faith and creativity, storytelling podcast, songwriter interview, Kyle Clark Nashville, creative persistence, showing up changes everything, music industry inspiration, country artist interviewConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailIs Compass CEO Robert Reffkin engineering the biggest power grab in real estate history — or is he actually playing 3D chess while everyone else plays checkers? In this episode of Dishin' Dirt, real estate attorney and SC Real Estate Commissioner Gary Pickren breaks down the escalating war over listing data, IDX feeds, and who ultimately controls the consumer relationship in real estate. If you're a broker, agent, or anyone paying attention to industry consolidation — this episode will change how you see what's happening right now. What You'll Learn: - Why Robert Reffkin's data strategy may be smarter than his critics think - How IDX feeds and MLS data became the most valuable asset in real estate - What industry consolidation really means for small and mid-size brokers- The battle between portals, brokerages, and MLSs for consumer relationships - Fair housing and legal risks hiding inside listing syndication decisions - How Zillow reshaped the market — and what comes next Chapters: 00:00 The Data Dilemma in Real Estate 02:26 Industry Consolidation and Strategic Moves 05:39 The Evolution of IDX and Data Ownership 08:30 The Rise of Portals and Consumer Relationships 11:10 The Value of Data and the Role of MLS 14:23 Reffkin's Strategy and the Fight for Control 17:07 The Impact of Zillow and Market Dynamics 20:15 Balancing Broker Interests and Seller Representation 23:09 The Future of Real Estate Listings and Data Control About the Show: Dishin' Dirt with Gary Pickren is the #1 real estate podcast in South Carolina and a 2024 American Land Title Association Webbie Award winner. Gary covers NAR settlements, agent compensation, buyer agreements, real estate law, and the business strategies top agents need to stay ahead. 

Send us Fan MailSometimes the biggest adventures begin after life falls apart.This week on Here's What We Know, our host, Gary Scott Thomas, sits down with author Teri M Brown about surviving emotional abuse, rebuilding self-worth, and riding a tandem bicycle across America with her husband.Their 3,102-mile journey became more than a cycling trip. It became a story about resilience, relationships, fear, kindness, and discovering what's possible when you stop letting your past define you.This conversation is funny, vulnerable, deeply human, and exactly the kind of unexpected story that reminds us how powerful connection can be.Listen now and discover why Teri says adventure can restore your faith in humanity.In This Episode:How Teri rebuilt confidence after emotional abuseWhat riding across America taught her about resilienceWhy tandem bicycles are called “divorce machines”What cross-country travel revealed about humanityHow adventure changes relationships and identityWhy most people are far kinder than the internet makes us believeThis episode is sponsored by:Dignity MemorialBio:Born in Athens, Greece as an Air Force brat, Teri M Brown graduated from UNC Greensboro. She began her writing career helping small businesses with content creation and published five nonfiction self-help books dealing with real estate and finance, receiving multiple awards.In 2017, after winning the First Annual Anita Bloom Ornoff Award for Inspirational Short Story, she began writing fiction in earnest, and published her debut novel in 2022, Sunflowers Beneath the Snow, a historical fiction set in Ukraine. Her second novel published in 2023, An Enemy Like Me, takes place during WWII. Her third novel, Daughters of Green Mountain Gap, a generational story about Appalachian healers came out in January 2024. 10 Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure (Feb 2025), is an inspirational look at the life lessons she learned riding across the United States on a tandem bicycle. Little Lola and Her Big Dream, is a children's picture book helping children realize that it is okay to have big dreams even in the face of opposition. Her newest work, Peg, Unhinged (April 2026), is a humorous contemporary women's fiction looking at menopause.​Teri is a wife, mother, grandmother, and author who loves word games, reading, bumming on the beach, taking photos, singing in the shower, hunting for bargains, ballroom dancing, playing bridge, and mentoring others.https://www.terimbrown.com/Tags: tandem bicycle across America, emotional abuse recovery, resilience stories, cross-country bicycle trip, adventure podcast, inspirational life stories, healing after trauma, tandem bike journey, overcoming fear, personal growth podcast, cycling across America, relationship stories, life after divorce, podcast interviews, human connection stories, emotional resilience, storytelling podcast, author,Connect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailMost agents believe their fiduciary duty to the client is the highest obligation in real estate. It's not — fair housing law comes first, and the way many agents operate right now may be setting them up for serious legal exposure.Colette Stevenson, CEO of Resides in Hilton Head, joins Gary Pickren to break down exactly where the line is — and how exclusive listings, in-house deal strategies, and seller-driven decisions can cross it without agents even realizing it.What you'll learn in this episode:• Why "the seller told me to" is not a fair housing defense• How exclusive listings and private listing networks unintentionally harm minorities, seniors, and first-time buyers• What MLS policies actually protect you from — and what happens when you bypass them• Where fiduciary duty ends and fair housing law begins — and why agents consistently get this wrong• The real legal exposure listing agents face when they prioritize seller preferences over accessIf you're a listing agent navigating seller pressure, a buyer agent being locked out of inventory, or a broker building ethical listing practices — this is required listening.South Carolina agents: the fair housing rules and MLS compliance standards discussed here apply directly to your practice.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailThis week on Here's What We Know, James Rollins shares how bestselling authors actually create stories that last.James Rollins is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of international thrillers translated into more than forty languages. His Sigma Force series has been called one of the “top crowd-pleasers" by the New York Times and one of the “hottest summer reads” by People Magazine. He's written more than 40 books, built entire worlds, and still approaches storytelling with the curiosity of someone just getting started.In this conversation, we explore how curiosity, research, and imagination come together, not all at once, but piece by piece, until something clicks.If you enjoy conversations about creativity, storytelling, and the human side of success, this one's worth your time.In This Episode:How bestselling authors develop story ideasWhy curiosity is the foundation of creativityThe difference between learning to write and becoming a storytellerHow reading improves writing over timeWhat makes “popcorn fiction” so powerfulThis episode is sponsored by:Sterling Oak CabinetryReed Animal HospitalBio:James Rollins is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of international thrillers, translated into more than forty languages. His Sigma series has been lauded as one of the "top crowd pleasers" (New York Times) and one of the "hottest summer reads" (People Magazine). In each novel, acclaimed for its originality, Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets—and he does it all at breakneck speed and with stunning insight. Known for building high-octane adventures on a solid science foundation, Jim juxtaposes the familiar with the exotic and then turbo-charges his tales with suspense. Always mindful of history's legacy, Jim reveals how secrets, some hidden for centuries, can change the course of human events. His novels explore how advancing technology can impact society—not just the physical threats of unchecked developments, but also the spiritual and moral challenges that result. “The true terror of technology is not the cogs and the wheels, but how it will change us,” he saysWebsite: https://jamesrollins.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjamesrollins/Tags: how to write a book, storytelling process, writing tips, bestselling author interview, Sigma Force, creative process, how to be a writer, fiction writing, author interview podcast, writing inspiration, author mindset, creative thinking, writing adviceConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailReal Brokerage just acquired RE/MAX for $880 million — and if you think this is just another corporate merger, you're missing what's actually happening to the real estate industry in 2026.In this episode, Gary Pickren breaks down what Real's acquisition of RE/MAX means for every real estate agent, whether you're at a major franchise, an independent brokerage, or considering where to hang your license next. This isn't just about two companies combining. It's about who controls the listings, the agent data, and the consumer relationship going forward.What you'll get from this episode:Why Real targeted RE/MAX and what the $880M price tag tells you about where brokerage power is shiftingHow mega-mergers like this one are destroying the traditional franchise model — and what replaces itWhat South Carolina real estate agents need to understand about technology, brand, and independence in a consolidating marketHow to position yourself so you're not caught on the wrong side of this industry shiftIf you're a South Carolina REALTOR or real estate broker trying to make sense of where this industry is heading, this is required listening.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailThere's an idea we all want to believe. If you're talented enough, you'll make it.This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with singer-songwriter Trey Calloway, a rising country artist navigating the reality of building a career in today's music industry. And what we uncover is something a lot of people don't want to admit: Timing matters more than talent.We talk about country stars like Jason Aldean and Eric Church, artists who feel inevitable now but weren't always. There were years where nobody knew who they were, years where it could have gone the other way.Because when you really look at success in the music industry, you start to realize something. It doesn't happen overnight, and it doesn't happen just because someone is talented.It happens when everything lines up. Talent. Timing. Opportunity. And readiness.Miss one of those, and the outcome can look completely different.If you've ever wondered what it really takes to make it in country music, why some artists break through and others don't, or how timing shapes success in the music industry, give this episode a listen!In This Episode:Why some incredibly talented artists never break throughHow timing, readiness, and life experience all collideThe reality of making money in music todayWhy success often comes later than expectedAnd what keeps someone going when it would be easier to quitThis episode is sponsored by:Sterling Oak CabinetryReed Animal HospitalBio:Trey Calloway is a singer/songwriter born and raised in North Carolina. The son of a preacher man, Trey grew up singing in church and was a seasoned performer by the age of 10.  Although southern and contemporary gospel were his first musical loves, he was instantly mesmerized by the sounds of country music after hearing a Garth Brooks Greatest Hits album his parents bought for him.  A deep understanding and passion for the rocking, boot stomping, country music of artists such as Clint Black, Alan Jackson, and Travis Tritt began to grow within him. Trey began writing songs, playing guitar, and performing in clubs at age 15. He knew early on without a shadow of a doubt that he would make music his career. Trey recorded and released his debut Nashville album entitled “Carolina Man” and was able to work with some of his musical heroes including Brent Mason, Lonnie Wilson and Buddy Hyatt on the album. Website: https://treycallowaymusic.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treycallowaymusic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/treycallowaymusic/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TreyCalloway1TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@treycallowaymusicConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

Send us Fan MailCommission steering is one of the most misunderstood legal risks in real estate right now — and most South Carolina agents don't realize they're doing it.In this episode, Gary Pickren breaks down exactly what commission steering is, how it happens without any malicious intent, and why it's become one of the fastest-growing sources of legal liability for real estate agents post-NAR settlement. If you're a buyer's agent, listing agent, or real estate broker in South Carolina, this episode could keep you out of a lawsuit.What you'll learn:What commission steering actually looks like in practice — and the everyday MLS habits that create legal exposureHow filtering listings by compensation, bonus language in listing agreements, and broker-to-broker comp structures can be used against you in courtWhat the Sitzer/Burnett verdict means for how South Carolina REALTORS operate todaySpecific steps to audit your own business practices before a complaint gets filedThis isn't theoretical. Agents are being sued right now for behaviors they thought were normal. Know where the line is before you cross it.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us Fan MailSC REALTORS no longer includes broker to broker compensation options in its forms. All compensation is direct between the buyer and buyer agent and seller and listing agent.  It is not difficult to understand. As a listing agent you only worry about yourself and not the buyer agent.But for some reason many of you still can't understand this simple concept. Today, I asked Former SCR President Reah Smith back to discuss her strategies for discussing seller direct transactions and compensation with your clients and other agents.  If you listen to this podcast, you will completely understand the concept and will be able to explain it to your clients.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.