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 takeaways to listen for

• The surprising advantages of keeping it local in real estate
• How upfront client education can save deals and emotions
• Shelley and Jillian’s secret to creating a flawless team experience for clients
• Why emotional support is a cornerstone of real estate success
• How seasoned pros handle vague but critical lending guidelines

About Shelley Griffin & Jillian Koland

Shelley was raised in a real estate family, began her career in the early 1990s, became a licensed agent in 2002, and joined Sara LaFaver and Erica Davis as co-owner of Harcourts The Garner Group in January 2017. Recognized as a top producer in the Bend market and across the West Coast, she earned the #1 Sales Agent title for Harcourts USA in 2018, 2020, and 2021. Born and raised in Central Oregon, she stays closely connected to her community through local organizations and leadership programs.

For over a decade, Jillian has been in the business of making homeownership dreams a reality. She believes that goals are goals, no matter how big or small. Whether working with first-time homebuyers or helping investors build a portfolio, she gives each borrower the time, attention, and energy they need. As a former escrow officer, she knows how to keep many plates spinning, no matter how much pressure she’s under. She’s invested in the relationships she gets to build with each client she meets during the loan process.

Connect with Shelley & Jillian

• Website: Harcourts The Garner Group Real Estate | Hixon mortgage
• Instagram: @shelleygriffin | @jillian_koland_mortgage
• Email: [email protected] | [email protected]
• Phone Number: 541-280-3804 | 541-241-4553

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

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"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 they truly are, so tune in!

Key takeaways to listen for

• How being true to himself transformed Chris’s real estate career
• Chris’s approach to attracting the right clients and collaborators
• Tips on mastering conversations around politics, commissions, and values
• Ways a balanced business partnership can drive success
• Reasons upfront client communication is key in real estate

Resources mentioned in this episode

• 427 - Sales Beyond Numbers: Compassionate Real Estate with Chris Wright
• Negotiate Anything Podcast
• Glenn Beck's Real Estate Agents I Trust
• Outrageous Authenticity® by Leigh Brown

About Chris Wright

Chris has over a decade of experience in real estate and a background as a Navy Veteran. He brings dedication, discipline, and sharp attention to detail to every transaction. His goal is simple: to help clients find the perfect property or buyer backed by a wealth of market knowledge and negotiation skills. Having served in the United States Navy, he understands the importance of commitment and hard work. These values have seamlessly translated into his real estate career.

Connect with Chris

• Website: Saratoga Spa Realty
• Facebook: SG Road Vigilante
• YouTube: The Be Wise Podcast
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: (518) 441-4535

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 is the ultimate superpower for building success.

Key takeaways to listen for

• How Erin’s dad turned a speeding ticket into a multi-transaction windfall
• Why buying that dream vacation home might be the best decision you’ll ever make
• Reasons authenticity is a game-changer as a real estate professional
• The surprising power of planting possibilities without knowing what will grow
• Real estate relationships done right: Why simple questions can spark life-changing opportunities

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Confessions Of A Crappy Christian Podcast

Amazon Book:

• Joy-Full AF by Erin Baker | Kindle, Paperback and Hardcover

About Erin Hatzikostas

Erin is an internationally recognized advocate for workplace authenticity. In 2018, after more than 20 years in corporate leadership, she left what many considered a dream job to prove that genuine connection is not just a buzzword but a powerful business tool. She founded b Authentic Inc to eradicate corporate “BS” and spark cultural change. A bestselling author of You Do You(ish), TEDx speaker, and co-host of the podcast b Cause Work Doesn't Have to Suck, her expertise has been featured on ABC, CBS, and in outlets like Business Insider and Fast Company.

She holds a BBA from Western Michigan University and an MBA from the University of Connecticut. Hatzikostas lives in Connecticut with her husband, Manny, and their two children, devoting her free time to coaching basketball, running, and finding places to dance—whether she’s supposed to or not.

Connect with Erin

• Website: b Authentic Inc
• LinkedIn: Erin Hatzikostas - Greater Hartford
• Instagram: @erinhatzikostas

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 everything you know about the market!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why the 30-year fixed-rate loan is a unique financial advantage in the US
• How inflation works in your favor as a real estate investor
• The benefits of investing in new construction homes in Sun Belt states
• Strategies for scaling a real estate portfolio, even in unpredictable markets
• How Adiel’s early experiences shaped his approach to simplifying real estate investing

Resources mentioned in this episode

• From Fear to Fortitude: Inflation, Time, and Debt for Lifelong Wealth | Adiel Gorel | TEDxYoungstown
• Adiel Gorel | Spotify

Amazon Book:

• Remote Control Retirement Riches by Adiel Gorel | Paperback

About Adiel Gorel

Adiel is the CEO of ICG, a prominent real estate investment firm located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Since 1983, he has successfully assisted thousands of investors with purchasing U.S. properties.

He also holds a master’s degree from Stanford University. His professional experience includes management and director positions at firms that include Hewlett-Packard, Excel Telecommunications, and biotechnology firms.

Connect with Adiel

• Website: International Capital Group
• Instagram: @adielgorel
• Facebook: Adiel Gorel
• YouTube: Adiel Gorel
• LinkedIn: Adiel Gorel - ICG Real Estate Investments
• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 stalked her dream home for years and scored the deal of a lifetime. Tune in for a blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom. You don’t want to miss this one!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why culture, not commissions, is the secret to retaining top talent
• Strategies to thrive financially in a tough real estate industry
• Reasons human connection always beats the latest app or tool
• How persistence secured Charis’ dream home and how it can help you
• Actionable insights to align broker and agent goals for mutual success

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Realtor.com
• Trulia
• NextHome
• Shoe Show

About Charis MorenoCharis is a seasoned real estate professional with over 20 years of experience, specializing in franchise growth, culture building, and fostering agent success. As Vice President and Chief Culture Officer at NextHome, Charis has played a pivotal role in expanding the franchise from zero to over 600 offices nationwide. With a background in sales leadership at Realtor.com and Trulia, she brings a unique perspective on blending technology and human connection in real estate.

Connect with Charis

• Facebook: Charis Moreno
• Instagram: @onefittexan
• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 style, and prepare to level up your real estate hustle! Subscribe now for more REALTOR® tips and the wildest stories from the world of real estate.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• How To GET OUT of Your Introverted Comfort Zone

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 lifesaver. Tune in for inspiration and a fresh perspective on making a difference!

Key takeaways to listen for

• How a simple idea evolved into an effective housing solution for displaced families
• Understanding the limitations of FEMA, flood insurance, and bureaucratic red tape
• How ordinary people can mobilize resources faster than large organizations
• Ways to leverage real estate networks to coordinate relief and rebuild communities
• Practical steps listeners can take to support ongoing relief efforts and make a tangible impact

Resources mentioned in this episode

• FEMA
• Patriot Relief
• Facebook
• TikTok
• National Association of REALTORS®

About Eric Kistner

Eric is a Business Coach and Tennessee Real Estate Academy Owner & Director of Instruction. With a degree in economics and political science from King University, Eric is the managing broker of Bridge Pointe Real Estate and Auction. He brings a unique perspective to the local real estate market as a licensed broker, contractor, and auctioneer. He served as the 2017 president of the Northeast Tennessee Real Estate Association of REALTORS®, and in 2018, he was honored with the prestigious Netar REALTOR® of the Year Award. He’s a graduate of the National Association of Realtors® Leadership Academy and is committed to lifelong learning.

Eric holds several real estate designations, including CRS, GRI, EPRO, NCC, and RCC. He’s also a certified real estate coach by Leigh Brown, a certified Distance Education instructor, and a certified Tennessee education instructor. Beyond his professional achievements, Eric actively contributes to his community. He serves as the chairman of the Holston Valley Medical Center and is a founding member of the HVMC Patient Advisory Task Force. He’s also a valued board member for the Move to Kingsport and Kingsport Façade Grant Committees.

Connect with Eric

• Website: Tennessee Real Estate Academy
• Facebook: Mattress Outlet
• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 connection and get inspired to make a difference in your own community!

Key takeaways to listen for

• The unique challenges of practicing real estate in disaster-affected areas
• How Starr leveraged her local connections to deliver essential supplies
• The importance of grassroots community efforts in disaster recovery
• Why rural communities face unique struggles during natural disasters
• A call for better disaster response from local and federal governments
• Balancing personal resilience and professional commitment during a crisis

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Catawba Valley Association of Realtors
• Patriot Relief

About Starr Franklin

Starr is a lifelong resident of Western North Carolina and has over 25 years of expertise in real estate. Specializing in single-family homes, construction, commercial properties, multi-family units, land sales, and relocation services—particularly for military families—she is dedicated to helping clients find their dream homes.

A devoted wife, proud mother to three children (including an active-duty Army soldier), and grandmother to two, Starr values family and service. With over 13 years as part of a top-performing team, she is committed to empowering clients with knowledge, integrity, and exceptional service to make informed decisions. For Starr, helping others unlock the door to a new chapter is both a calling and a privilege.

Connect with Starr

• Website: Coldwell Banker Boyd & Hassell
• Facebook: Starr M Franklin
• Instagram: @starrmfranklin
• YouTube: Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 828-308-7485 | 828-322-1005

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Special REALTOR® Tip Episode! In this special edition of Crazy Sht 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 starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you work smarter, serve better, and build trust with your clients. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your real estate hustle!

Subscribe now for more REALTOR® tips and the wildest stories from the world of real estate.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Do Successful Real Estate Agents Still Make Cold Calls and Send Cold Emails?

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 gone awry, an experience that taught him lessons in grit and adaptability!

Key takeaways to listen for

• How Ja'Mal’s mother inspired his commitment to generational wealth and community investment

• Game-changing benefits of converting Section Eight vouchers into down payments and mortgage assistance

• Impact of property ownership and commercial investments on neighborhood revitalization

• Challenges and rewards of rehabbing properties and lessons on tenant management

• The importance of non-gatekeeping and sharing real estate knowledge to build wealth within the community

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Freedom Venture Investments

About Ja'Mal Green

Ja’Mal has been fighting for economic empowerment for many years. In 2020, Green launched a movement against J.P Morgan Chase Bank for their lending practices in urban neighborhoods of Chicago. After his team shut down over 35 bank branches with millions watching around the world and Green being banned from every Chase bank in America, Chase made a one billion dollar commitment to Chicago and another 30 Billion worldwide.

Connect with Ja'Mal

• Website: Generational Green

• Instagram: @jaymalgreen

• Facebook: Ja'Mal Green

• YouTube: Ja'Mal Green

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

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 an unforgettable mess. Tune in for an episode rich with real stories and real wisdom!

Key takeaways to listen for

• A business model and approach to help set your business apart from larger corporate investors
• The critical role of responsible investing in affordable housing
• Lessons in financial literacy and the importance of financial literacy
• Importance of flexibility in real estate investments and investors
• How mission and ethics shape lasting success in business

Resources mentioned in this episode

• BiggerPockets
• Legacy Alliance - Dave Seymour

About Dave Seymour

Leveraging a wide network built through his TV show 'Flipping Boston,' Dave provides an extensive reach into multiple markets. His knowledge of real estate dynamics and proven track record add immense value to his investor partners.

Connect with Dave

• Website: Freedom Venture Investments
• LinkedIn: Dave Seymour
• YouTube: LEGACY Alliance Club
• X: @daveseymour343
• Instagram: @daveseymour343
• Facebook: Dave Seymour
• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/