The Real Estate Sessions
Interviews with real estate industry leaders, hosted by 25-year industry veteran, Bill Risser. The Real Estate Sessions was selected as the 2019 Inman Innovator Award Winner for Video/Podcast Show. Unlike many shows in the real estate space, Bill does not focus on investing, sales and marketing, or any specific topic. He focuses on his guest and does his best to get their backstory. Bill is curious by nature and finds the backstory of our industry's leaders fascinating. He has discovered lenders who were ballerinas, Chief Creative Officers who managed bands, and CEOs who sold vacuum cleaners (and not very well...
From Mortgage Origins to Real Estate Innovation: Todd Carpenter - Senior Vice President, Industry Relations, Styldod

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...
Real Estate Sessions Rewind - Florin Patrascoiu, Owner/Broker – RE/MAX Premier September 2021

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...
Curated Learning: Enhancing Real Estate Education and Onboarding

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...
Real Estate Sessions Rewind - Episode 395 - The Return of Joe Rand - CEO Joe Rand Media and Mayor of the Village of Nyack

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...
Bill Risser's Personal Updates: Life Beyond Real Estate

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...
Episode 412 - Remixed: A Journey from Marine to Proptech CEO

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, Founder and President, Maverick Systems

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...
Bonus Episode - March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month - Have you been screened?

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...
Real Estate Sessions Rewind - Richard McDonough - Sothebys International Realty - Feb 20, 2024

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...
Vanessa LeVesque - Mixed Media Artist and Recovering People Pleaser

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...