Real Talk with Leigh Brown

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 famil...

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...

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. Yo...

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...

G et 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...

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...

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 i...

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 personali...

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!     K...

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...

Step into the unpredictable world of real estate and lending, where every deal has a story! Leigh chats with Shelley Griffin and Jillian Koland to reveal how strong teamwork and local expertise transform chaotic transactions into success stories. Plus, don't miss Jillian's hilarious story about a magnetic eyelash mishap during a signing - it's a real estate moment you won't forget!     Key takeawa...

Get ready for Chris Wright's no-BS guide to real estate success as we welcome him back on the show! From building a real estate business with integrity to navigating bold life choices and standing firm in authenticity, Chris dives into the highs, challenges, and lessons of his journey. This episode is packed with powerful insights, candid stories, and inspiration for anyone ready to embrace who th...

What happens when a Turnaround CEO and Authenticity Aficionado combines authenticity, storytelling, and humor? In this episode, we sit down with Erin Hatzikostas to explore the transformative power of relationships in real estate and life. Plus, you'll hear about a Big Fat Greek baptism story that's so outrageous it'll have you laughing out loud. So don't miss Erin's insights on why authenticity i...

Dial into this episode with Adiel Gorel to explore how real estate can be a life-changing investment. He shares his journey from Silicon Valley to building a thriving real estate empire and highlights the incredible financial advantages of the 30-year fixed-rate loan - an overlooked gift unique to the US. Plus, hear a crazy story about his early Vegas investments that will make you rethink everyth...

What's the secret to real estate success? In this episode, Leigh Brown sits down with Charis Moreno to explore how relationships, culture, and adaptability drive the industry forward. Charis shares her unique journey from technology to brokerage, offering insights on building strong agent-broker connections and thriving in a competitive market. Plus, don't miss the jaw-dropping story of how Charis...

Join us for another special REALTOR® Tip episode where we explain how understanding your personality, whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or omnivert, can transform your real estate business. Whether you're a quiet thinker or a social butterfly, this episode will help you embrace your strengths, adapt your prospecting style, and serve your clients more effectively. Tune in, reflect on your sty...

What happens when disaster strikes and traditional relief efforts fall short? In this episode, Leigh Brown teams up with Eric Kistner to discuss the challenges of Western North Carolina's housing crisis and the innovative solutions to helping displaced families. Plus, hear the story of black mold-infested campers meant for disaster relief and how temporary tractor sheds became an unexpected lifesa...

What happens when a hurricane turns your world upside down? Starr Franklin chats with us to share how she balanced real estate, community service, and a whole lot of grit in the wake of Hurricane Helene. From climbing mountains to delivering baby supplies to navigating bears and power outages, Starr reveals the human side of real estate in times of crisis. Tune in to hear how she turned chaos into...

Special REALTOR® Tip Episode! In this special edition of Crazy Sh t in Real Estate*, Leigh Brown shares a game-changing strategy every REALTOR® needs to hear. From managing client expectations to leveling up your negotiation game, Leigh dives into the power of simplicity and how small, thoughtful shifts can make a huge difference in your real estate career. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just st...

Get inspired as Ja'Mal Green shares his mission to transform lives through real estate and community empowerment. Listen as he recounts his mother's relentless dedication to homeownership and discover unique strategies, including using Section Eight as a vehicle for home ownership and the power of mentorship to bridge the wealth gap. Plus, don't miss the unforgettable story of a property rehab gon...

Join Dave Seymour for a no-holds-barred conversation that redefines real estate investing, blending heart, grit, and strategy. Discover Dave's unique approach to making properties thrive while putting people first, and gain insights into navigating complex regulations with integrity. Plus, you won't want to miss the wild story of a property takeover that went off the rails, leaving Dave to unravel...

Join the dynamic conversation with Justin Konikow, where we break down how AI, the "Chick-fil-A model," and exceptional service standards are transforming the real estate industry. Discover Justin's insights on building authentic client relationships and hear his incredible story about closing a commercial deal with a unique financing twist that brought his client over a million dollars. Don't mis...

After Hurricane Helene, Veterans facing the unimaginable have a lifeline. Returning guest John Bell, Executive Director of the VA Home Loans Program, chat with us to reveal how the VA is stepping up with powerful relief options to help Veterans rebuild and recover. He also shares insights on skyrocketing insurance costs and the VA's new toolkit for real estate pros working with Veterans. Don't mis...

Tired of the same old real estate game? Then tune in to this episode with real estate expert Craig O'Boyle as he dives into the powerful world of assumable mortgages and how they're shaking up the market. From VA loans to creative financing, discover strategies to navigate today's market. Plus, don't miss his wild tale about an REO property that took an unexpected turn!     Key takeaways to listen...

Get ready for a thrilling dive into the wild side of real estate protection with developer George McCleary. From bold squatters seizing properties to jaw-dropping title fraud tactics that leave property owners helpless, George exposes the shocking scams shaking up real estate today. He shares essential strategies every property owner should know to protect their properties. And trust us, you won't...