The Real Estate Sessions

AK Lalani, the founder of Rollout, joins us to share the profound challenges associated with API integrations within the real estate sector. He elucidates how Rollout endeavors to streamline the integration process, thereby enabling proptech companies to focus on their core offerings without the burden of complex API management. Drawing from his rich background, including a formative upbringing in Tanzania and extensive experience in the tech industry, AK shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey and the motivations behind his innovative solutions. Our conversation traverses his early ventures, the lessons learned from working at startups, and the pivotal moment that...

The conversation with Karla Saladino elucidates the intricate dynamics of real estate transactions in Manhattan, particularly highlighting the challenges posed by privacy concerns and the unique market structure that eschews traditional MLS systems. Saladino, a co-founder of Mirador Real Estate, articulates the necessity for brokers to maintain direct control over high-value listings, advocating against their exposure on platforms like Zillow, which may divert leads to less qualified agents.. Through her extensive experience, she emphasizes the importance of matching agents’ strengths to their roles within the industry, encouraging new agents to undertake personality assessments to ensure alignment with the demands of...

The salient point of our discussion with Todd Carpenter revolves around the transformative nature of social media and technological advancements within the real estate industry, particularly in relation to compliance and image management. I elucidate how Todd has significantly contributed to bridging the gap between emerging technologies and real estate practices, particularly through his current role at Styldod. We delve into the intricacies of how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing image editing processes and compliance measures within Multiple Listing Services (MLS). Furthermore, Todd shares invaluable insights from his extensive career, detailing the evolution of social media's role in real estate...

Florin Patrasciou, a prominent figure in the real estate sector, elucidates the transformative evolution of real estate transactions, emphasizing the profound impact of technological advancements on the industry. He recalls the cumbersome processes of the past, where clients were required to sign multiple original documents, contrasting sharply with contemporary practices that favor efficiency and digital solutions. Through his extensive experience, Florin underscores the necessity of embracing technology to streamline operations and enhance client satisfaction. His journey from a newcomer in the United States to a successful broker owner exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit essential in the competitive real estate landscape...

The salient point of this discussion centers on the imperative for real estate agents to possess a comprehensive understanding of their local market dynamics. It is imperative that agents convey pertinent data to their clientele—buyers and sellers alike—to elucidate the current state of the market, thereby facilitating informed decision-making. The conversation also underscores the necessity of maintaining an active connection with one's sphere of influence, as these relationships can yield significant opportunities in terms of referrals and business. Furthermore, Amy Chorew emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to technology adoption, advising agents to maximize their existing tool...

The forthcoming dialogue features Joe Rand, a distinguished figure in the real estate sector, who elucidates the significant transformations currently reshaping the industry, particularly concerning the new regulations surrounding buyer broker compensation. As he articulates, these changes necessitate that buyers and their agents engage in more nuanced negotiations regarding compensation, a departure from the previously established norms where such arrangements were often implicit. Rand emphasizes the critical importance of formalizing buyer agreements, a practice that aims to elevate the standards of representation for buyers, thereby ensuring that they receive adequate advocacy in their transactions. Furthermore, he posits that while...

In this episode, I, Bill Risser, take the opportunity to discuss several personal reflections and significant events occurring in my life. I emphasize the importance of colorectal cancer awareness, particularly the necessity of scheduling colonoscopies for those eligible, as I participated in a local awareness walk. Additionally, I share my enthusiasm for the impending baseball season and my plans to celebrate opening day in San Diego, where I will also engage in social activities with friends. Furthermore, I express my heartfelt sentiments regarding a visit to my friend John Bjorlie, who is navigating the challenges of terminal prostate cancer...

Christian Dwiggins, co-founder and co-CEO of Rayse, articulates a transformative vision for the real estate industry, focusing on the imperative of enhancing agent-client relationships through innovative technology. The primary salient point of our discussion centers on Rayse's pioneering buyer presentation tool, which seeks to empower agents by providing them with a rich, interactive platform that showcases their value and expertise. Dwiggins emphasizes the necessity for agents to convey their worth effectively in a rapidly evolving market, particularly in light of recent legal changes affecting commission structures. Throughout the episode, he reflects on his multifaceted background, including his experiences in...

Diana Zaya, the esteemed founder and CEO of Maverick Systems, engages in a profound discourse with host Bill Risser regarding the critical importance of agent retention in the real estate industry. At the forefront of this episode is the salient observation that retaining agents is significantly more feasible than recruiting new ones, a point that underscores the necessity for robust retention strategies. Zaya elucidates how her company employs data-driven methodologies to enhance coaching practices, thereby fostering better conversations and ultimately improving agent performance. The episode further explores the challenges faced by brokerages in navigating the complexities of data interpretation...

A Survivor's Call to Action: Understanding Colorectal Cancer

The discussion centers on the critical importance of colorectal cancer awareness, particularly during the month dedicated to its recognition. I emphasize the significance of early detection, underscoring that the survival rate markedly improves when the disease is identified at its localized stage. With colorectal cancer being the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States, it is paramount for individuals to engage in regular screenings, which the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting at the age of 45. Moreover, I highlight the alarming increase in colorectal...

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the continuous journey of learning and adaptation within the real estate industry, as articulated by Richard McDonough. He emphasizes the necessity of embracing change and fostering relationships amidst the evolving landscape of real estate, highlighting his belief that agents must remain proactive and engaged. Richard shares insights from his unique career trajectory, which includes an extensive background in luxury yachts and competitive skiing, ultimately leading him to real estate. He reflects on the importance of leveraging technology and social media while maintaining authentic connections with clients. This conversation offers a profound...

The conversation presented in this podcast episode with Vanessa LeVesque unveils the profound transformation of her artistic journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her into the artist she is today. Central to our discussion is the notion that the pursuit of art can be both an organic and liberating process, as Vanessa reflects on her initial hesitations about a career in the arts, stemming from societal expectations and a desire for stability. As she recounts her transition from traditional employment to the vibrant world of art, it becomes evident that her unique perspective and creative expression are deeply...

Clients desire to feel valued and understood, a sentiment that underscores the essential nature of effective communication in the realm of real estate. In this discourse, I delve into the pivotal role that nurturing relationships plays in fostering a successful career within the industry. By listening attentively to client needs, responding promptly to inquiries, and offering personalized guidance, we can cultivate a rapport that not only enhances client satisfaction but also generates referrals and repeat business. Furthermore, I emphasize the significance of building connections with fellow industry professionals, which transcends mere networking and fosters a collaborative environment conducive to...

Curiosity: The Secret Ingredient for Successful Real Estate Relationships

Curiosity is a powerful tool in building professional relationships, especially in real estate. By prioritizing asking questions over delivering sales pitches, agents can foster deeper connections with potential clients. Bill Risser emphasizes the importance of genuinely understanding clients' goals and challenges, which not only builds trust but also positions agents as partners in their journey. Active listening and open-ended questions can lead to valuable insights and creative solutions that resonate with clients. This episode encourages listeners to embrace curiosity in their interactions, ultimately enhancing their ability to serve...

Building a Better Real Estate Business: Insights from Mark Choey

Mark Choey emphasizes the critical importance for real estate agents to focus on converting leads into clients, as this is essential for their survival and success in the industry. With nearly 25 years of experience, he shares insights from his journey, including his time as a co-founder of Climb Real Estate, where he and his partner Chris Lim made significant strides in the San Francisco market. Mark's latest venture, HighNote IO, aims to provide agents with powerful tools to streamline their workflows and enhance their marketing efforts by...

Navigating Real Estate with Authenticity: Insights from Chelsea Peitz

Chelsea Peitz emphasizes the transformative power of video communication in today's digital landscape, highlighting that consumers are increasingly expecting to see people on video to establish connections. With a background in clinical psychology, Chelsea shares her journey from aspiring therapist to a leading voice in real estate marketing and personal branding. She reflects on the evolution of social media and how platforms like Snapchat have influenced real-time communication, paving the way for a more authentic online presence. Throughout the conversation, she encourages new agents to define their unique...

Unlocking Home Equity: How HouseAmp is Revolutionizing Real Estate



Rick Hennessey, the CEO of HouseAmp, joins Bill Risser to discuss innovative solutions in the real estate market that empower homeowners to maximize their home sale potential. House Amp provides a unique platform that enables sellers to access equity for home improvements without any upfront costs, making it easier to sell homes faster and for more money. Rick shares his personal journey from growing up in Alaska to becoming an entrepreneur focused on helping others through real estate. He emphasizes the importance of community, integrity, and th...

Reflecting on 2024: Lessons from the Real Estate Trenches

Sean Carpenter joins Bill Risser for the final episode of the Real Estate Sessions podcast in 2024, focusing on effective business planning for the upcoming year. They discuss the importance of reflecting on the past year to set meaningful goals and avoid the pitfalls of simply pursuing success without a clear direction. Carpenter emphasizes the need to be honest with oneself during the planning process, encouraging agents to evaluate their performance in key areas such as prospecting, time management, and client relationships. He introduces the concept of a "one, one...

Mary-Anne Gillespie, CEO of Red Apple Coaching, shares her dynamic journey from homelessness to becoming a leading figure in real estate coaching. She emphasizes that less than 7% of realtors can excel in both sales and operations, highlighting the importance of having systems in place to support success. Mary-Anne's high-energy approach is evident as she discusses the necessity of investing in coaching and systems, urging new agents to prioritize these elements over chasing leads. Through her personal transformation, including her remarkable journey to becoming an Ironman athlete, she illustrates the power of resilience and the belief that anyone can overcome...

Breaking the Cycle: Bill Risser's Journey through Health Challenges

Bill Risser shares a personal and reflective monologue in episode 405 of the Real Estate Sessions podcast, highlighting the importance of staying connected with clients in the real estate industry. Drawing on his own experiences with health challenges over the years, he discusses the six-year cycle of significant health events in his life and how these experiences have shaped his perspective. Bill emphasizes the critical nature of building relationships through effective communication and understanding client needs, rather than simply presenting products or services. He also provides updates on his...

Rachel Kilmer, a rising star in the real estate world, shares her journey from sports journalism to becoming a top agent at ReeceNichols Real Estate in Kansas City. With a background that includes a passion for sports and a knack for engaging content creation, Rachel highlights the importance of authenticity in marketing, especially through video. She emphasizes that if creating video content feels like a chore, agents should focus on their strengths instead. Rachel discusses her successful strategies, including leveraging social media to connect with clients, particularly those relocating to Kansas City. Her insights into the local culture, including...

Matthew Rathbun emphasizes the critical need for real estate professionals to adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by consumer preferences and technological advancements, particularly in the face of AI and aggregator platforms like Zillow and Homes.com. With nearly 25 years in the industry, he shares insights on how agents can leverage these changes to better serve their clients and remain competitive. Rathbun discusses the importance of authenticity in building relationships and the necessity of embracing innovative tools to enhance productivity and client engagement. He also touches on the significance of education and continuous learning within real estate, advocating for...

Jack Miller, CEO and president of T3 Sixty, shares valuable insights on the evolving landscape of the real estate industry, emphasizing the crucial need for real estate professionals to redefine their roles as trusted advisors rather than mere salespeople. He discusses the importance of building relationships within communities and highlights how a strong personal network can significantly enhance business success. Throughout the conversation, Jack stresses the necessity for agents to clearly articulate their value to clients, especially in light of recent changes in compensation dynamics. He also addresses the challenges facing real estate associations and MLSs, advocating for a...

Join Bill Risser as he revisits a compelling conversation with Stefan Swanepoel, a leading figure in the real estate industry, originally aired in August 2020. The episode delves deeply into Stefan's diverse background, including his journey from Kenya to becoming a prominent real estate consultant and author. Stefan shares insights on the challenges and opportunities facing the real estate market, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking. The discussion also highlights his passion for analyzing industry trends and the impact of external factors on real estate practices. This rewind offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics...

Don't Quit Before the Magic Happens: Megan's Inspiring Story

Megan Farrell Nelson's narrative intertwines personal and professional growth, illustrating the intricacies of navigating the real estate landscape while overcoming significant life challenges. Starting her journey in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Megan was initially on the path to becoming an educator. However, her life took a turn when she moved to North Carolina for a teaching job but quickly realized the limitations of her salary. Following her partner’s suggestion, she pursued a real estate license, which opened doors to a new career that she had not initially considered. As sh...

Weathering Change: Julie Lawrence's Transition from News to Real Estate

Julie Lawrence, a former meteorologist turned real estate agent, shares her unique journey in the real estate world on the Real Estate Sessions podcast. With nearly four years of experience at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services in Tampa Bay, Julie emphasizes the rewarding nature of helping clients transition to their new homes, particularly those escaping colder climates. She discusses her background growing up in the suburbs of Chicago and her decision to move to Florida for college, which ultimately led her to a career in real estate. The...

Lauren Toppins, founder and broker of Cherrywood Real Estate, emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in the competitive real estate industry. With a unique background as an attorney, Lauren shares her journey from law to real estate, highlighting how her legal expertise informs her approach to helping agents thrive. The conversation explores her commitment to fostering a family-friendly culture in her company, where education and support are paramount. With 62 agents and a focus on both residential and commercial real estate, Lauren is dedicated to providing comprehensive training and resources to empower her team. As she looks to the...

Building a Bullseye: The Art of Cultivating Your Key Connections

Sean Carpenter emphasizes the importance of building relationships and maintaining meaningful connections in the real estate industry. He introduces the concept of a "bullseye," which represents the 20 key individuals in one's life who are invested in their success, advocating for a focused, personal approach to networking. Throughout the conversation, Sean shares insights from his extensive speaking engagements across the country, illustrating how his presentations revolve around practical strategies for nurturing these vital relationships. The episode also touches on the evolving landscape of college football, particularly the impact...

Jackie Semero Tate emphasizes the crucial role of relationships in the real estate industry, highlighting that agents are essentially small business owners. With over 20 years of experience, Jackie shares her journey from aspiring ballerina to successful realtor and coach. She discusses the importance of work-life balance, sharing her personal struggles and the transformative steps she took to prioritize her health and family while still thriving in her business. Jackie advocates for new agents to seek mentorship, arguing that guidance is essential for success in a challenging field. With insights on building authentic connections and fostering a service-oriented mindset, Jackie...

Matthew Rathbun shares insights on the evolving landscape of real estate, emphasizing the importance of adapting to consumer needs and technological advancements. He highlights how aggregators like Zillow and homes.com have filled gaps that the real estate industry neglected, urging agents to embrace change rather than resist it. With nearly 25 years of experience, Rathbun discusses his unique background in emergency medicine and law enforcement, which shaped his empathetic approach to real estate. He stresses the value of authenticity in building relationships with clients and the necessity of balancing personal and professional lives. This episode is a deep dive...

Debbi DiMaggio's journey through real estate is one of passion, adaptability, and dedication to excellence. Originating from Piedmont, California, she has built a formidable career in real estate alongside her husband, Adam, and their son, Chase. One of the core philosophies that drives the DiMaggio Beta Group is the idea that luxury is about the service provided, not just the price point. This ethos permeates their business practices, ensuring every client, whether a CEO or a school teacher, receives the same VIP treatment. Debbi's commitment to relationships and service excellence has not only led her to success in real...

Jorge Guerra is a seasoned veteran in the real estate industry, having founded Real Estate Salesforce, a brokerage based in Coral Gables, South Florida, at the young age of 26. With nearly 25 years of experience under his belt, Guerra's perspective on real estate salesforce is shaped by his belief in simplicity, consistency, and relationship-building. He views technology as a tool that should be carefully evaluated and implemented by brokers, only if it significantly contributes to the industry. Despite acknowledging the importance of technology and embracing innovations like AI, Guerra emphasizes that the core of the real estate business lies in...

I've known John Bjorlie for nearly 25 years. 4 years ago, john was diagnosed with terminal cancer. John has chosen to stop aggressive treatments, focusing instead on a "Die Happy Tour" to reconnect with friends and loved ones, embracing quality of life over the length of it. Despite his prognosis, John remains positive and content, surprising even his hospice doctor with his acceptance and joy in the face of mortality, determined to live fully and leave a legacy of kindness and compassion.

Time Stamped

(00:08:07) "John Bjorlie's Ear-Playing Musical Prodigy Journey"

(00:19:18) Marketing Expert Thrives in Telemarketing...

Stas Matias, a seasoned professional with nearly 14 years of experience, is the broker-owner of Erin Catron & Company Real Estate, a boutique brokerage in Punta Gorda, Florida. Having transitioned from a background in criminal justice, Stas emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in building a successful real estate career. He advocates for new agents to invest in education through the GRI program and stresses the practical application of their acquired knowledge. Committed to community engagement and fostering win-win relationships, Stas believes giving back is essential for personal and professional growth, drawing parallels between his real estate practice and...

Nick Krautter is the author of "The Golden Handoff," a highly recommended book in the real estate industry that focuses on facilitating smoother transitions between newer and retiring agents. In his work, Krautter addresses the critical issue of setting up agents for retirement, emphasizing the importance of connecting retiring agents with adopting agents before retirement to maintain strong client relationships. The second edition of his book introduces the concept of partial handoffs, a strategy that allows for gradual transitions, which Krautter learned about through his teaching experiences. Beyond his literary contributions, Nick is also a seasoned keynote speaker and...

Tiea Vincent, the Owner/Broker of Next Level Real Estate and Property Management, brings 21 years of experience to the real estate business and actively engages with Florida Realtors on advocacy efforts. Initially from a rural part of Tennessee, Tiea values work-life balance but is deeply committed to expanding her company's portfolio. Drawing on her extensive experience, Vincent highlights the complexities of managing rental properties and underscores the importance of balancing regulations with property owners' rights, all while navigating the practical challenges property managers face, such as maintenance issues and navigating HOA regulations.

(00:07:13) The Influence of External Events...

Sammy DeStefano, seamlessly transitioned into the real estate business, building on his extensive experience in sales since the age of 19. His move was driven by the promising growth and myriad opportunities within the real estate sector, further inspired by his family's own relocation experiences and his professional background at a luxury car dealership. As a dedicated real estate agent with Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty for the past four and a half years, Sammy emphasizes the critical importance of being coachable and committed to continuous learning—attributes he credits for his success. Enthusiastic about the financial prospects and the fl...

Joe Rand, an author and seasoned real estate expert, has significantly shaped modern practices in buyer agency with his profound insights and extensive experience. On The Real Estate Sessions podcast, where he has appeared over 20 times, Joe discusses the evolution of buyer agency, noting the industry's initial seller-centric focus and the major shifts in compensation dynamics that began in the late eighties. He emphasizes the critical importance of securing buyer agreements and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of real estate transactions. Rand advocates for agents to seek guidance from knowledgeable brokers rather than relying on random advice from social...

Bill Risser's Real Estate Sessions podcast, which began in 2015, has grown remarkably over nine years, featuring nearly 400 episodes that delve into the stories of real estate professionals. Initially focused on how guests entered the real estate industry, the podcast has evolved to include in-depth interviews with established and emerging leaders. Bill Risser reflects on the history of the Real Estate Sessions podcast, which he has been hosting for nine years. He started the podcast to explore the stories and backgrounds of industry leaders and up-and-comers in the real estate world. Despite the challenges of producing the podcast, Bill Risser...

Mary-Anne Gillespie's journey is a testament to resilience and determination, starting from her early days exploring open houses in Montreal with her mother, to becoming a standout figure in real estate. Initially flourishing in Ottawa's tech industry as the youngest vice president of sales at a software marketing company by age 22, she felt an unshakable sense of unfulfillment. This prompted her to pivot towards real estate, where her tenacity led her to approach the city's top agent to launch her new career. Reflecting on her path, Gillespie underscores the importance of seizing opportunities, pushing oneself to uncover true potential...