Crazy Sh*t In Real Estate With Leigh Brown

What happens when a single mom takes on the real estate industry with zero backup and zero margin for error? You get Bethany Brokaw. Dial in as we chat about how she built a thriving business from nothing, trains agents to raise the bar, and still shows up with heart. Let’s just say... things get wild when frogs and lily pads show up under a house.   Key takeaways to listen for How a single mom with zero commission experience built a real estate empire The unexpected move that took Bethany from broke to boutique brokerage owner What Bethany does that earns her clients’ loyalty A rule that Bethany refuses to break and how it made her more successful What most new agents never learn and how it's hurting their clients   About Bethany BrokawBethany has been working in real estate since 2006 and enjoying every minute of it!  She is the current President of the Women’s Council of Realtors Michigan and the Broker/Owner of The Brokaw Group. She is an active REALTOR®, Best of Zillow, consistently outsells 99% of ag

Real estate investing gets real when you're managing Airbnbs, Section 8 rentals, and navigating unexpected drama along the way. Louisville broker Stacey Duvall shares how she built a thriving portfolio by treating tenants with respect, choosing the right properties, and never skimping on granite. She also breaks down why over-improving rentals can be your smartest move. And wait until you hear about the buyer who refused to close until a dead squirrel was removed from the street.   Key takeaways to listen for Why commercial zoning made Stacey’s Louisville Airbnbs unstoppable How she overcame fear and bought her first investment property Why upgraded properties bring better tenants and fewer headaches Stacey’s in-depth strategy that starts before a tour Why cash flow isn’t everything and what else investors should measure   Resources mentioned in this episode CASHFLOW® Classic—How Fast Can You Become A Millionaire? Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki   About Stacey DuvallStacey possesses unique skills as

Most real estate agents know houses, but land? That’s a whole different beast. In this episode, Cheryl Sain shares how she turned dirt into a thriving career. From scams and surprises to buried secrets, discover why land deals are risky, wild, and seriously profitable. And don’t miss her crazy story about a developer, a debris pit, and a seller who “forgot” what was under the soil. You won’t want to miss this one!   Key takeaways to listen for Why understanding raw land could open doors to surprising profits The red flags, scams, and survey traps that can tank a deal How Cheryl went from curious rookie to land-selling powerhouse with the help of a mentor The crucial documents every buyer should demand Why waiting too long can kill your deal before it even starts   Resources mentioned in this episode REALTORS® Land Institute NC REALTORS® How to Buy, Sell, and Profit with Land by Cheryl Sain 10 Things You Need To Know About Land by Cheryl Sain  

Boone may look like a cozy college town, but James Milner, CCIM reveals the real pressures behind its housing crisis and stalled commercial growth. From post-disaster market insights to high-stakes development challenges, James shares the factors reshaping what is possible in Western North Carolina real estate. Plus, don’t miss the things that drive James absolutely insane in today’s housing market!   Key takeaways to listen for Anti-development policies and outdated infrastructure in Boone, and what that means for attracting new business How Hurricane Helene affected Boone’s tourism season and local businesses Why existing restaurant spaces are hot commodities in a high-cost, low-inventory market Factors that influence James’ client-first approach to real estate The overlooked crisis keeping new industries out of Boone   Resources mentioned in this episode Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)   About James Milner, CCIMJames is a commercial real estate broker, appr

Kent Redding’s path from retail mogul to real estate powerhouse isn’t what you’d expect - especially when leadership, empathy, and branding collide. In this episode, Kent shares the surprising lessons he learned that still shape his business today. You’ll walk away rethinking what it really means to build trust, show up, and lead with heart. Plus, don’t miss the story of the open house that literally caused a traffic jam.   Key takeaways to listen for How Kent turned personal values into a business branding strategy that stuck What managing 400 retail employees teaches you about long-term client loyalty The marketing wisdom that still drives Kent’s success today Reasons self-awareness and empathy matter more than market trends Is volunteering with your local REALTOR® association a great career move?   About Kent ReddingKent is a top-producing REALTOR®, 2024 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, and a 20-year veteran with Berkshire Hathaway. Known for his client-first approach, Kent combines entreprene

An overgrown, collapsing house sat untouched for 15 years until Mike Lovelace decided to do something about it. In this episode, you'll learn how one determined agent used old-school tools, a petition, and a builder’s mindset to restore value and dignity to a forgotten neighborhood. The payoff? A heart-wrenching story of lost memories found again. Tune in, and you might just be inspired to take action in your own community!   Key takeaways to listen for How one neighbor’s frustration turned into a community-led effort to restore property value and safety Why Mike chose an old-school petition to get attention from county officials finally The surprising ripple effects a neglected property in a neighborhood has on home value Ways Mike leveraged real estate tools, relationships, and sheer persistence to create solutions beyond a transaction Why advocacy might be the most important part of the job of a REALTOR®   About Mike LovelaceMike is a North Carolina-based REALTOR® with a deep background in tech, finance,

Student loan payments are back, and millions of borrowers have no idea they're already delinquent. In this episode, Brian Vaughan breaks down what’s happening with student loans, how it could tank your credit score without warning, and what to do before applying for a mortgage. Plus, we dive into what’s coming this summer with medical debt reform and a wild loan story involving a surprise job switch that actually saved a deal.   Key takeaways to listen for Student loan chaos: Why millions of Americans are unknowingly delinquent Steps to take if your student loans have damaged your mortgage eligibility Why pulling your credit report annually should be your new self-care ritual A game-changing credit policy shift that could open doors for buyers Reasons job changes mid-mortgage can derail deals and how to time them right   Resources mentioned in this episode Free Credit Report Annual Credit Report.com Credit Karma CreditWise | Free Credit Score, Credit Report & Monitoring   About Brian VaughanBrian is a

If you’ve ever cursed your phone during a cold call, this episode might just change your tune. Nicholas Nick (yes, that’s really his name) shares how a hospitality career turned into a multimillion-dollar real estate lead-gen company. Plus, stick around to hear how one Vermont fourplex turned into a snow-covered, flood-prone, tenant-infested financial disaster with a $20K eviction twist!   Key takeaways to listen for How managing restaurants for 13 years trained Nick to dominate customer service in real estate Why cold calling is still one of the best free lead gen methods The one powerful script line that transformed Nick’s sales strategy Reasons great customer service always wins in sales conversations A big lesson for aspiring real estate professionals   About Nicholas NickNicholas is the founder of Lead Mining Pros, one of the top real estate lead generation companies in the U.S. With over a decade in the industry and a background in hospitality and real estate education, Nicholas built his business to

What happens when a luxury custom home builder with a heart for service joins forces with Leigh Brown? An episode full of passion and purpose! Austin Lineberry opens up about faith, craftsmanship, and his ability to seamlessly transition from million-dollar kitchens to rebuilding storm-damaged homes. Plus, hear the shocking story of a 22-year-old Austin facing a mortgage fraud bribe. You won’t want to miss this.   Key takeaways to listen for Why Austin balances high-end custom builds with boots-on-the-ground relief work The power of faith, honesty, and refusing to cut corners How modular homes are disrupting housing affordability and waste Why getting teens involved in trades is a game-changer Construction waste reduction and why it’s the key to acceptance of modular housing   Resources mentioned in this episode Patriot Relief Patriot Relief Casas por Cristo Sleepless in Seattle (1993) The Money Pit (1986)   About Austin LineberryAustin is the founder and owner of New River Building Company, a high-end cu

From dreaming of NASCAR to navigating Northern Virginia’s high-stakes real estate market, Brandon Lowkaran brings speed, smarts, and sincerity to every transaction. Listen in as he talks about market myths, money mindset, and how small shifts can lead to big moves in real estate. And just when you think it’s all financial wisdom and buyer tips, wait until you hear about the buyer, the long-close nightmare, and the self-sabotage that nearly derailed it all!   Key takeaways to listen for Is Northern Virginia real estate really crashing or is that just internet noise? Why first-time buyers suddenly have more leverage than they’ve had in years Down payment assistance programs most buyers don’t even know exist How Brandon’s construction background gives his clients a serious advantage What most high earners still get wrong about money and how to avoid it   Resources mentioned in this episode CASHFLOW® Classic—How Fast Can You Become A Millionaire? VA Home Loans HOME Plus Program   Amazon books: Rich Dad Poo

What happens when working with your family starts costing you sleep? In this honest and emotional return episode, we chat with Staten Island REALTOR® George S. Wonica to unpack the highs and lows of navigating a family-run real estate business. Dial in as he shares the lessons, heartbreak, and hope behind creating a new path while preserving personal relationships. If you’ve ever worked with family or thought about succession planning, this is one you can’t miss.   Key takeaways to listen for What happens when your loyalty to the brokerage clashes with your loyalty to your future? How George left his family’s business without losing his family Ways George is channeling decades of experience into a new career Why the best broker-agent relationships require mutual responsibility The importance of putting estate plans and business expectations in writing   Resources mentioned in this episode Dustin Brohm - Massive Agent The 'Gripe Session' Podcast   About George S. WonicaA 32-year veteran of the real estate

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Tim Kennedy, a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional, who’s on a mission to re-educate the public and the real estate industry on the untapped power of reverse mortgages. From avoiding credit card debt to funding bucket list adventures (and surviving a machete-wielding tenant!), this episode proves that reverse mortgages aren’t just for the desperate. They’re for the smart and strategic. Key takeaways to listen for Reverse Mortgage 101: What it is, how it works, and why it’s not a scam Why setting up a reverse mortgage line of credit early could be your best retirement move Common misconceptions about heirs, ownership, and taxes Ways reverse mortgage funds can reduce your tax burden Reasons you need a CPA, financial advisor, and mortgage pro when planning for retirement success Resources mentioned in this episode NRMLA Movement Mortgage It's Just A Mortgage - LI News Radio About Tim Kennedy, CRMPTim is a seasoned professional specializing in the financ

From working in economic development to partnering with her grandparents in real estate, Cheyenne McGriff has seen the industry from multiple angles, and she’s got stories to prove it! Tune in to hear her inspiring personal experiences and some cheat codes for real estate success. Plus, hear about her wildest client experiences, including sight-unseen purchases and final walkthrough nightmares. You won’t want to miss this one!   Key takeaways to listen for Why every new real estate agent needs a mentor How market unpredictability impacts buyers, sellers, and REALTORS® The truth about economic development and real estate growth Lessons from working in a small town with a big real estate team How Cheyenne balances family life, business, and hosting a podcast for moms in real estate About Cheyenne McGriffCheyenne was born and raised on a ranch near Wall, South Dakota. After graduating from Chadron State College, she worked in community and economic development for three years. In this experience, Cheyenne fou

What happens when you mix relocation clients, a final walkthrough on Zoom, and two unexpected dogs? You get one wildly unforgettable moment in real estate. In this episode, we chat with Janet Johnson, who shares what it’s really like to move your career across state lines and keep your cool when chaos breaks out mid-transaction. You’re going to love this conversation!   Key takeaways to listen for The surprising differences between real estate rules in Wisconsin and Tennessee Why relocation clients are flocking to Tennessee How Janet balances real estate, grandparenting, and leading a Girl Scout troop What makes Chattanooga a hidden gem for outdoor lovers and history buffs   Resources mentioned in this episode Beech Mountain Resort   About Janet JohnsonJanet is a seasoned real estate agent with a background in Artificial Intelligence, Software Development, and Project Management. She brings those skills to enhance the home buying and selling experience. Focused on doing the right thing in providing fiduci

Get ready for part two of our conversation with Rashmi Airan, where we dive deeper into resilience, personal growth, and the unexpected lessons life throws our way. From navigating health challenges and marathon dreams to unpacking the complex world of ethical decision-making, Rashmi shares her transformative story of rising through adversity. Buckle up for an honest, raw, and ultimately hopeful conversation that might just change the way you think about second chances! Key takeaways to listen for How Rashmi turned her prison sentence into a masterclass on accountability and self-forgiveness Why Rashmi became a prison weight loss coach and how it changed her view on service The dangerous combo of overconfidence bias and lack of moral humility Why cooperating with the FBI gave Rashmi a different outcome An inside look at FEMA’s struggles and how local knowledge could transform disaster response Resources mentioned in this episode Rise Through It - rashmiairan.com Joel Osteen Sermons online Scandal Quant

What happens when a high-achieving real estate attorney finds herself on the wrong side of the law? In this episode, we welcome Rashmi Airan, whose unbelievable story blends ambition, hard lessons, and a twist you won’t see coming. From bold fashion choices to shocking courtroom moments, this conversation has it all. Tune in for an unforgettable ride through the wild side of real estate, and stick around for the crazy story at the end that ties it all together. Key takeaways to listen for How chasing one big client turned into a career-ending mistake Importance of gut instincts and why ignoring them can cost you everything How real estate incentives and shortcuts can land professionals in serious legal trouble The power of asking for help and the risks of going it alone Why your biggest failures can become your greatest teachers     About Rashmi AiranRashmi is an Ivy League-educated attorney, former Wall Street investment banker, and globally recognized transformation expert. After building a successful l

Real estate investing is about making smart, ethical moves that lead to real financial freedom. Hear it directly from Clark Lunt as he shares hard-earned lessons from building his rental portfolio and navigating the world of wholesaling. And if you think real estate knowledge only comes from books, wait until you hear how Clark's conversation with his landlord sparked his interest in real estate investing. Key takeaways to listen for The easiest way to get started in real estate investing Why house hacking is still one of the smartest strategies The 3-question test to determine if wholesaling is ethical or just another scam Biggest mistakes new investors make when choosing their first rental property How to ask better questions and make smarter investing decisions Resources mentioned in this episode Craigslist Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie About Clark LuntClark graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Communications/Jo

What happens when a homebuyer starts remodeling a house before closing without permission? Jan Kimbrough Miller joins us in this episode to talk about the absolute chaos that unfolded in one of her most shocking real estate transactions. But it’s not all drama, she also shares how her background in physical therapy shaped her approach to real estate and why not having a traditional sales personality can actually be a superpower. Stick around to hear how she handled one of the wildest real estate nightmares you’ll ever hear! Key takeaways to listen for Why setting clear expectations with clients makes real estate much easier How a background in healthcare helped Jan navigate the emotional side of real estate The surprising reason many great agents don’t see themselves as “salespeople” How different personality types approach buying and selling homes Why real estate success is about understanding people Resources mentioned in this episode Grand Junction, CO - RE/MAX 4000 Inc   If you want to learn a re

Can you run a thriving real estate business and have a life? Rachel Adams Lee thinks so, but it took a pumpkin patch intervention from her husband to get there. She opens up about the challenges of setting social media boundaries, staying present with her family, and making business decisions as a team. If you’re feeling stretched thin between work and life, you’ll want to hear this episode!     Key takeaways to listen for The common social media mistake REALTORS® make and how to avoid it Why posting about more than real estate helps your business A simple trick to boost engagement before you even hit "post" How to create content people actually connect with Ways to balance work, family, and showing up online     Resources mentioned in this episode 50 Pieces Of Content Created For You Weekly Reels  Rachel's Coaching Crew Google Keep - Notes and Lists - Apps on Google Play     About Rachel Adams Lee Rachel is the founder of The Rachel Adams Lee Group at Keller Williams Realty. She is currently ranked in

Real estate isn’t just about contracts and commissions—it can also come with unexpected dangers. In this episode, we sit down with Brenda Wise to uncover critical safety strategies that could save your life and financial tips that could boost your bottom line. Hear the shocking story of an agent whose open house took a terrifying turn and learn how to spot red flags before it's too late. Plus, we break down the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC) and how eligible 1099 earners can claim their refund. This episode is packed with insights to help protect your career, safety, and finances—don’t miss it! Key takeaways to listen for Common safety mistakes agents make and how to avoid them Why paying attention to subtle red flags could save your life Shocking real-life scenarios that will change how you think about agent safety What you need to know about the Self-Employed Tax Credit Refund before it’s too late How sharing safety tips and financial strategies can strengthen your network and grow your business Reso