Advertise on podcast: So You Want to be a Real Estate Agent

In this Lessons in Success episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, host Meredith Fogle sits down with Kim Braunstein, a top-producing agent in Florida’s Treasure Coast, whose success story is a powerful example of what’s possible when you build a business rooted in authenticity, communication, and consistency. Kim shares how she successfully transitioned into a new market as a transplant—and how she built traction quickly by staying true to her values and focusing on what actually drives results. From leveraging open houses to building meaningful relationships, she breaks down the practical strategies that helped her grow a thriving business in a competitive environment. She also offers an honest look at working in business with family, the role mindset plays when business gets “bumpy,” and why your database is the single most important asset you have. Throughout the conversation, one theme remains constant: success is built on trust, and trust is built through authentic, client-centered service. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to successfully break into a new market as a transplant  ✅ Why open houses remain one of the most powerful lead-generation tools  ✅ How to communicate effectively to build trust and convert opportunities  ✅ What it takes to work successfully with your spouse or family in business  ✅ Why your database is the lifeblood of your real estate business  ✅ How to evaluate whether you’re at the right brokerage for your growth  ✅ Why mindset is everything—especially when business gets challenging  ✅ How authenticity creates long-term success and stronger client relationships This episode is perfect for agents who want to grow a business that’s both high-performing and deeply aligned with who they are.

In this Lessons in Success episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Meredith sits down with Don Hill, entrepreneur and creator of Top Producers Nation, a platform built to connect high-performing real estate agents with the tools, strategies, and community they need to succeed at the highest level. Don shares his journey from early sales in college to building a business centered around supporting top producers - and the patterns he’s observed from working with agents who consistently perform at a high level. You’ll learn what separates agents who stay stuck from those who gain traction quickly and sustain long-term momentum. He also breaks down the mindset shifts required to move past self-limiting beliefs and step into a higher level of performance, along with his powerful 4 C’s framework for success, a practical structure agents can apply immediately to their business. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The common traits and habits Don sees in top-producing real estate agents  ✅ How to get into traction quickly—and what actually sustains momentum  ✅ The mindset shifts required to break through self-limiting beliefs  ✅ Don’s 4 C’s framework for success—and how to apply it in your business  ✅ Why community, environment, and proximity matter more than most agents realize  ✅ How to position yourself for consistent growth in any market This episode is perfect for agents who are ready to move from inconsistent effort to focused execution - and build real momentum in their business.

In this episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, host Meredith sits down with Jen and Geoff Tackney, a husband-and-wife real estate team serving Orange County, California, whose journey from separate careers in mortgage and construction to building a thriving collaborative business during the 2009 recession is a masterclass in resilience and long-term strategy. Jen and Geoff share how they combined their complementary skill sets to navigate one of the most volatile housing markets in history, and how their commitment to geographic farming and community presence became the foundation of their success. You’ll learn why they believe long-term market dominance comes from consistent service, local visibility, and authentic relationships. The Tackneys also unpack their “generosity first” philosophy, explaining how small acts of service, local event sponsorships, and consistent community involvement compound over time into high-value referrals. They reflect on leadership lessons learned while running a team, highlighting the importance of clear expectations, strong systems, and maintaining a growth mindset in an ever-changing market. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The geographic farming habits that create long-term dominance (and why consistency beats “quick wins”)What “generosity first” marketing looks like - ideas for small acts, local sponsorships, and community presence that compound into referralsHow to turn community service and events into high-trust relationships (without feeling salesy)Leadership lessons from running a small, nimble team: clear roles, clear expectations, better executionHow to stay adaptable and growth-minded in any market 

In this powerful episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Meredith Fogle sits down with Eileen McKeon, a 25-year real estate veteran and top producer in the Cleveland, Ohio market, to unpack what sustainable success really looks like. Eileen leads a highly efficient team of three working mothers who operate as “full-time agents on part-time hours” — proving that intentional structure, strong systems, and clear priorities can outperform hustle culture. But her success didn’t happen by accident. From her early “shotgun approach” (saying yes to everything) to discovering the Ninja Selling methodology 17 years into her career (a major turning point), Eileen shares the mindset shifts, professional discipline, and relational philosophy that changed everything. This episode is a masterclass in building a referral-based, relationship-driven business while maintaining professionalism, family priorities, and long-term vision. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why relationships — not transactions — are the real asset in real estateHow Eileen rebuilt her business after scaling too quicklyWhat “lead from revenue” really means (and why it matters)How to structure your week for efficiency using time blockingThe importance of mastering contracts, forms, and legal detailsWhy agents must elevate professionalism in a low-barrier industryHow coaching expanded her network, referrals, and long-term growthThe daily habits (like handwritten thank-you notes) that compound over timeHow to build a 10-year vision and reverse-engineer it into today’s actionsEileen reminds us that real estate isn’t just sales - it’s psychology, humanity, empathy, and stewardship during life’s biggest transitions. If you’re looking to build a business rooted in integrity, structure, and intention, this episode will raise your standard.

In this episode Meredith sits down with Theresa Wellman, a top 1% agent in the competitive San Jose, CA market, whose journey from the tech world to real estate has become a masterclass in applying analytical thinking to entrepreneurial growth. Theresa shares how she transitioned from a career in Silicon Valley engineering into real estate - and how her data-driven, process-focused mindset became the key to standing out in a highly saturated market. You'll learn how she uses her “engineering brain” to interpret market trends, develop systems, and create deep alignment with her clients and content. Theresa also reveals how she balances top-tier production with motherhood using "time-sliding" (her unique spin on time-blocking), and how she’s built a thriving YouTube channel that consistently generates warm, organic leads. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  ✅ How Theresa leveraged her tech background to differentiate herself in real estate  ✅ Her approach to reading market data and presenting value in a saturated market  ✅ What "time-sliding" is—and how it helps her stay productive and present as a mom  ✅ How she built a YouTube channel that works as a 24/7 lead magnet  ✅ The systems and habits that keep her focused, intentional, and in demand This episode is perfect for agents who want to build structured, scalable success—and still have a life outside the business.

In this Lessons in Success episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Meredith Fogle welcomes Caroline Decherd, a San Antonio-based top producer, team leader, and creative force who’s built a business as bold and high-impact as she is. Caroline is a true outlier - known for her ability to spot opportunity fast, implement without hesitation, and bring her full energy to everything she touches. In this conversation, she shares the pivotal moments that sparked momentum in her career and the key lessons that helped her scale with focus, fun, and authenticity. You’ll hear how she uses goal-setting as a clarity tool, how she creates real relationships that lead to real results, and how she keeps her family life front and center while still growing a high-performing business. Plus, Caroline shares how she became a viral Instagram content creator and the simple tools that have helped her stay visible and effective in a competitive market. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  ✅ Why fast implementation gives you a competitive edge  ✅ How to use focused goals to create clarity and momentum  ✅ The buyer and seller relationship-building strategies that convert  ✅ How to make room for your family and your future ✅ The key systems and tools that created traction and visibility ✅ How Caroline grew a powerful brand by going viral (and staying consistent) Whether you're looking for tactical takeaways or the inspiration to move faster on your next big idea, this episode is packed with clarity, action, and energy from someone who's doing it all—with “maximum fun!”

Welcome to So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent—the podcast for growth-minded real estate professionals who are ready to build a business that works for them. Hosted by real estate team leader, business coach, author, and top producer Meredith Fogle, this show is your insider pass to the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that actually create long-term success in real estate. Whether you’re a brand-new agent trying to get your first deal, or a seasoned pro ready to scale sustainably, you’ll find the tools, structure, and inspiration you need right here. Each episode features practical training, real-world case studies, and candid conversations with agents who are doing things differently - and getting results. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just what works. If you’re ready to go beyond just selling homes and build a fulfilling, profitable, and self-sustaining business, you’re in the right place. Subscribe now and get ready to become the agent everyone remembers.

Welcome to Season 7 of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Lessons in Success, where we spotlight the real stories, strategies, and philosophies behind some of the industry’s most impressive careers. In this powerful kickoff episode, Meredith Fogle is joined by Jay D’Alessandro, a highly respected team leader whose real estate team closes hundreds of transactions annually. Jay shares the core values and defining lessons that have shaped his path to success, including the power of mentorship, the legacy he's building as a leader, and the lasting impact of generosity. With a blend of humility, passion, and practical wisdom, Jay walks us through how hard work, culture, and service have become the pillars of his success - and how he intentionally lifts others as he climbs. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  Why mentorship is a multiplier for long-term growth What it really takes to lead a high-performing team How generosity, service, and purpose fuel sustainable successHow to intentionally build a team culture that people want to be part of Why doing the right thing, consistently, is the ultimate business strategyWhether you're growing a team, leading one, or just beginning your own success journey, this episode is packed with timeless, high-level insight that will fuel your success.

In this special episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, the script gets flipped—Felicia Kaminker takes the mic as guest host and puts Meredith Fogle in the hot seat. From early obstacles to major wins, Meredith opens up about her personal and professional journey, sharing stories from her start in real estate to building a successful team, launching multiple ventures, and coaching agents across the country. You’ll hear what keeps her motivated, what she wishes she had known sooner, and the advice she gives every agent who wants to grow a career that’s sustainable, scalable, and deeply fulfilling. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The biggest mindset shifts that helped Meredith grow her business ✅ What she looks for when building and leading a successful team ✅ How she handles setbacks—and keeps going ✅ Real advice for agents who want more than just short-term success ✅ Why leadership starts with self-awareness, vision, and service Whether you’re brand new to the business or a seasoned agent looking for your next breakthrough, this is a raw, honest, and inspiring conversation with someone who’s walked the path and continues to innovate in it.

In this special episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, fan-favorite Rose Anderson returns to share the exciting next chapter of her journey—complete with new wins, powerful lessons, and strategies every agent can use to build long-term success. Rose opens up about how she continues to grow in confidence, how she overcame imposter syndrome, and how she’s stepping fully into her identity as a powerhouse real estate professional. She also shares her top-performing strategies for converting open house leads, leveraging the “buyer looking” method to spark listing conversations, and staying in momentum even as the market shifts. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The mindset shift that helped Rose go from new agent to local leader ✅ How the “buyer looking” strategy is unlocking off-market opportunities ✅ Real-world tips for converting open house leads into buyer clients ✅ How to overcome imposter syndrome and build real confidence ✅ Why long-term success is built on consistency, connection, and community If you're looking for inspiration and implementation, this episode is full of both. Rose’s journey will remind you that even the most confident agents started somewhere—and with the right support and strategy, you can get there too.

In this episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, host Meredith Fogle welcomes first-time guest and rising listing agent Tommy Weaver, who shares the story of how he built a thriving business by focusing on what most agents overlook: the leads already in front of them. From revitalizing old leads and strengthening sphere connections to maximizing every listing through circle dialing, buyer-looking campaigns, and expired outreach, Tommy breaks down how he creates new opportunity from every closed deal—even in a challenging market. His practical, no-fluff approach is a blueprint for agents who want to stop spinning and start converting. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to re-engage past leads and turn cold contacts into warm opportunities ✅ The follow-up rhythm that keeps your sphere of influence consistently active ✅ How to use circle dialing and “buyer-looking” language to spark new listings ✅ The mindset shift that helps you see every transaction as the beginning—not the end ✅ Why agents who work their database outperform those chasing the next shiny lead If you’ve been looking for a way to maximize what you already have and create consistent closings without burning out, Tommy’s approach is the roadmap you've been missing.

In this new episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Tina Nader is back with fresh updates on her recent wins—and a tactical breakdown of how she’s marketing listings creatively and effectively in a market where days-on-market are longer and buyer urgency is lower. From pinpointing the right audience for each property to crafting high-converting social media content and using AI tools to scale marketing with precision, Tina shares what’s working right now to get homes seen—and sold. Whether you’re trying to breathe new life into a stagnant listing or proactively preparing for a market shift, this episode is filled with practical tools, creative ideas, and a repeatable approach that will help agents position properties more powerfully and build lasting visibility. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How Tina identifies and targets the most likely buyer for each listing ✅ Tips for writing and posting engaging, conversion-driven listing content ✅ How to use AI (like ChatGPT and Canva Magic Write) to streamline marketing ✅ Creative ways to increase visibility online—and in your local market ✅ What it really takes to stand out when buyers have more choices and less urgency

In this episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, host Meredith Fogle sits down with powerhouse listing agent Naomi Richardson to talk about one of the smartest ways to scale your real estate business: hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA). Naomi shares her real-life experience of building systems with the help of a VA, including how she found the right fit, what training looks like, how to maintain accountability, and the key signs that it’s time to stop doing it all yourself. Whether you’re overwhelmed with administrative tasks or simply looking to grow more efficiently, this episode will help you determine whether hiring a VA is right for your business—and exactly how to make it work if it is. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to know when you’re ready to hire a VA ✅ What tasks a Virtual Assistant can take off your plate immediately ✅ Naomi’s step-by-step process for sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding ✅ How to set clear expectations, train effectively, and maintain communication ✅ Common pitfalls to avoid—and what makes the relationship thrive long term If you’re serious about building a business that runs like a business, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to hire smart and scale with intention.

In this empowering episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, host Meredith Fogle sits down with Naomi Richardson, a successful listing agent who did what many agents only think about—she picked up, relocated, and rebuilt her entire real estate business from scratch in a brand-new market. Naomi shares the step-by-step process she followed to not just survive, but thrive, in unfamiliar territory—including what worked, what didn’t, and how she went from knowing no one to becoming a sought-after local expert. She also delivers a ready-to-use script to break the ice with future friends and future clients—without sounding salesy. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to launch your real estate practice in a brand-new city or state The fastest ways to meet people and build local name recognition Naomi’s go-to “icebreaker” script for turning conversations into opportunities How to build authority when you’re new to the area The mindset and systems that allow you to rebuild with confidence and speed If you’ve ever wondered whether you could relocate your real estate business—or if you're in the middle of starting over—this episode will give you the confidence, tactics, and language to make your next chapter your strongest yet.

In this powerful and perspective-shifting episode of So You Want to Be a Real Estate Agent, Meredith Fogle welcomes special guest Garrett Marroon—real estate entrepreneur, coach, speaker, and author of The Balanced Breakthrough: Winning at Work Without Losing at Life. Garrett shares how he built a thriving real estate business without sacrificing what matters most. Through aligning his work with his authentic mission, Garrett discovered that success doesn't have to come at the expense of peace, family, or faith—and in fact, that living in alignment can become the greatest accelerator of long-term results. This episode is a must-listen for any agent or entrepreneur who feels pulled in too many directions—and is ready to embrace sustainable success from a place of clarity, values, and purpose. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How Garrett scaled his real estate business while protecting his time and energy ✅ What it means to build from alignment—and how to find yours ✅ The key mindset shifts that allowed him to grow without burning out ✅ How prioritizing faith, family, and fulfillment led to greater impact ✅ Daily disciplines and boundaries that support balanced growth If you’re craving a more meaningful path to success—or wondering whether you really can have it all—this episode will give you both hope and a blueprint.