

Icons of Real Estate Podcast
Tomás Fonseca
ICONS of Real Estate Podcast is the go-to source of inspiration for real estate professionals who want to be inspired, take action and grow their business. Tune in for the latest insights in real estate, entrepreneurship, mindset and more.
We also run the #1 Real Estate Podcast Network, helping real estate professionals build their brand through podcasting. Check out our website to see how we can help you grow!
Apply to be on the show:
https://iconsofrealestate.com/podcastnetwork/icons
Explore our network:
https://hub.iconsofrealestate.com/
Find out more:
iconsofrealestate.com
We also run the #1 Real Estate Podcast Network, helping real estate professionals build their brand through podcasting. Check out our website to see how we can help you grow!
Apply to be on the show:
https://iconsofrealestate.com/podcastnetwork/icons
Explore our network:
https://hub.iconsofrealestate.com/
Find out more:
iconsofrealestate.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 4, 2025 • 18min
From Rookie to Icon: The Journey to Real Estate Mastery with Dan D.R. Gray - EP 529
🎙️Episode: From Rookie to Icon: The Journey to Real Estate Mastery with
Dan D.R. Gray
👨💼With Special Guest: Dan D.R. Gray
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, host Karen Roberts interviews Dan Gray, a certified EXP luxury agent and five-time past chair of the Sudbury Real Estate Board. Dan shares insights on his journey into real estate, influenced by his second-generation experience, and discusses the impact of his leadership roles on his approach to serving clients. He highlights the benefits of being involved with the real estate board, the transition to virtual brokerage with EXP, and his commitment to mentoring new agents. Dan also discusses his experience in handling luxury properties and first-time buyers, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and balancing personal and professional life. Tune in to learn about Dan’s strategies for success and his goals for the future.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ if you do the right thing, it'll come back at tenfold. ”
📇Connecting with Dan Gray
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.dan.gray/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.dan.gray/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangrayrealtor/?originalSubdomain=ca
Website: https://yoapress.com/dangraywp
🎙️Connecting with Ethan Thomas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Feb 3, 2025 • 17min
Tampa's Housing Trends: Insights and Challenges with Chris Haynes - EP 528
👨💼With Special Guest: Chris Haynes
In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Chris Haynes, a successful real estate professional from Tampa Bay. Chris shares his journey from working at the Hard Rock Casino to becoming a full-time realtor, prompted by the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses balancing his career with being a father of three, the challenges and rewards of the real estate market in Tampa Bay, and his aspirations to develop affordable housing communities. Throughout the conversation, Chris's dedication to his family and his profession shines through, providing inspiring insights for listeners.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ you always have a cap when you work for somebody else. There's always a cap on your earnings. me and my wife just have this kind of vision to take that cap off. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Chris Haynes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.haynes.90038882/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.haynes_/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherhaynes4484/
Website: https://frankalbertrealty.com/agent/chris-haynes
🎙️Connecting with Ethan Thomas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 31, 2025 • 21min
Creating Opportunity: Real Estate for Everyone with Aaron Signor - EP 527
👨💼With Special Guest: Aaron Signor
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, host Karen Roberts interviews Aaron Signor, a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience in sales and leasing. Aaron shares his journey from the auto industry to real estate, driven by a commitment to ethics and helping people achieve homeownership. He discusses his transition to real estate, the importance of creating opportunities for small business owners, and his focus on commercial property development. Aaron’s vision is to foster financial equity and leave a lasting legacy by making homeownership and commercial property ownership accessible to all. Tune in to hear about Aaron's philosophy, motivation, and plans for the future, including exciting development projects.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ everyone talks, everybody talks about equity, social equity, diversity, equity, this equity, that equity. Only thing I care about is people's financial equity. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Aaron Signor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallbusinessre
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallbusinessre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallbusinessre
Website: https://smallbusinessrealty.com/
🎙️Connecting with Karen Roberts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 30, 2025 • 25min
Transforming Real Estate: Innovations and Achievements with Michael LaFido - EP 526
👨💼With Special Guest: Michael LaFido
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate Podcast, host Ethan Thomas interviews Michael LaFido, a leading figure in the luxury real estate industry and founder of the Marketing Luxury Group. Michael shares his journey from running a small summer business to becoming a top luxury real estate agent and author of the bestseller, Secrets of Top Luxury Agents. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to specialize in luxury real estate, the evolution of his company, and the innovative marketing strategies he employs. Michael also delves into the complexities of marketing high-end homes, managing client expectations, and the future of luxury real estate in the age of AI and cryptocurrency. The episode is packed with actionable insights for real estate agents looking to excel in the luxury market.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
” managing expectations is important. It's a longer sales cycle. You need to position the home more effectively. “
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker - https://iconsofrealestate.com/apply-to-be-a-guest-speaker/
📻 Real Estate Podcast - https://iconsofrealestate.com/real-estate-podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video - https://iconsofrealestate.com/podcast-framework-video
🛠 Podcast Framework - https://iconsofrealestate.com/podcast-framework
📇Connecting with Michael LaFido
Facebook: https://facebook.com/luxurylistingspecialist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxurylistingspecialist/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelafidorealtor
Website: https://www.luxurylistingspecialist.com/
🎙️Connecting with Ethan Thomas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 29, 2025 • 16min
Discovering Purpose: Faith and Real Estate Harmony with Rick O’Connor - EP 525
👨💼With Special Guest: Rick O’Connor
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, hosted by Karen Roberts, we delve into the illustrious career of Rick O'Connor, a seasoned real estate professional with over four decades of experience. Beginning his real estate career in 1983, Rick earned his broker's license by 1994 and has since dedicated himself to helping families in McHenry County find their dream homes. His business philosophy, "If it's important to you, it's important to us," underscores his commitment to client-centric service. Rick shares how his early entrepreneurial spirit led him to a successful real estate career, the transformative impact of his faith, and how he has built lifelong relationships with clients across multiple generations. He also discusses his balancing act between managing a real estate business, property management, a title company, and his active role in community service. Tune in for an insightful journey through Rick's accomplishments and the principles that drive his ongoing success in the real estate industry.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ People keep asking me, Rick, when are you going to retire? why would I retire? This is my mission. I love this. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Rick O’Conner
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therickoconnorgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickoconnorgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/35578338/
Website: https://rickoconnorgroup.com/
🎙️Connecting with Karen Roberts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 28, 2025 • 28min
Game-Changing Broker: Real Estate Innovations with Adam McCallister - EP 524
👨💼With Special Guest: Adam McCallister
In this engaging kickoff to 2025, the host welcomes Adam McCallister, a prominent figure in the real estate industry. Adam shares his unique journey from being a radio DJ to becoming a successful realtor. He recounts his transition triggered by a heartfelt conversation with his daughter, leading him to pursue a more flexible and rewarding career in real estate. Adam discusses his love for his 2018 Indian Chieftain motorcycle and how it helps him break barriers with clients. He delves into the challenges of his early real estate career, leveraging his DJ connections, and the eventual success and growth after joining eXp brokerage. Adam reveals his excitement for 2025, his mission to assist 100 first-time homebuyers, and the launch of his new podcast aimed at providing real-world real estate insights. This episode is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and motivational advice for anyone looking to thrive in the real estate industry.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ one of the biggest obstacles we have is fighting misinformation and bad information. So this is kind of my way to get real world. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Adam McCallister
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homewithmmt/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homewithmmt/
Website: https://www.mmtwithexp.com/
🎙️Connecting with Timothy Kaitano
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 27, 2025 • 27min
Journey of Excellence: A Life in High-End Real Estate with Ken Berke - EP 523
👨💼With Special Guest: Ken Berke
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate Podcast, host Ethan Thomas interviews Ken Berke, a distinguished figure in luxury real estate representing Corcoran. Ken shares his remarkable journey from moving to South Florida in the late 1970s with minimal resources to building a successful multi-million dollar business in plumbing supplies and transitioning into high-end real estate. He discusses his strategies for staying ahead in the competitive market, the importance of building strong client relationships, and what differentiates an extraordinary property. Ken also offers valuable advice for aspiring real estate professionals and shares his future goals, including a potential podcast series titled 'Need to Know'.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ you can't give up with a failure. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Ken Berke
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567474672230
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennyb5411/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-berke-67b85942/
Website: https://www.corcoran.com/real-estate-agents/detail/ken-berke/33021/regionId/2
🎙️Connecting with Ethan Thomas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 24, 2025 • 20min
Exploring Calm: A Realtor's Mindful Approach with Nina Patel - EP 522
👨💼With Special Guest: Nina Patel
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, host Karen Roberts interviews Nina Patel, a seasoned real estate professional who integrates two decades of corporate marketing experience and mindfulness practices from her background as a yogi and meditation teacher. Nina shares her journey from corporate marketing to real estate, highlighting how her mindfulness practices help her navigate the stresses of the industry and support her clients. Nina elaborates on her proactive approach to real estate, focusing on emotional intelligence, client empathy, and community engagement. She also discusses her challenges and successes in a transformative year, emphasizing the importance of maintaining boundaries and going with the flow. Nina aims to expand her influence by helping other agents develop emotional intelligence skills to enhance their business success.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ People really gravitated towards how calm I am during a time where they were very stressed out. And so they leaned on me to be that calming force. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeelandNinaRealEstate/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sacred.spaces.by.nina/
Website: https://www.har.com/nina-patel/agent_nipatel
🎙️Connecting with Karen Roberts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 23, 2025 • 22min
Real Estate Evolution: A Leader's Strategic Insights! with James Huang - EP 521
👨💼With Special Guest: James Huang
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, host Karen Roberts talks with James Huang, President of EXP Commercial at EXP World Holdings. James discusses his career transition from private equity and technology to leading innovation in commercial real estate. He shares insights on the growth and strategy behind EXP Commercial and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. James also reflects on his role as National President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America and provides advice for professionals considering a move into commercial real estate. The conversation covers technological advancements, market challenges, and the importance of building personal brands and networks.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ when you realize you surround yourself with the time of more family and friends and that network and that bond, that is the most valuable thing. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with James Huang
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jameshuang.exp/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-huang-3772839
Website: https://corporate.resaas.com/
🎙️Connecting with Karen Roberts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Jan 22, 2025 • 10min
Real Estate Dreams: Flipping and Interior Design! with Hailey Lebel - EP 520
👨💼With Special Guest: Hailey Lebel
In this episode of the Icons of Real Estate podcast, we introduce Hailey Lebel, a dedicated real estate professional from Auburn, Maine. Hailey shares her inspiring journey from working in customer service and nursing school to finding her passion in real estate. With the encouragement of her uncle, she made a career shift and has been thriving in the industry since 2019. Hayley discusses her love for residential real estate, the fulfillment she gets from helping clients, and her long-term goals of investing in properties and interior design. Despite facing personal health challenges, she has successfully built her business and aims to achieve new milestones in the upcoming year. Tune in to hear more about her story, her strategies, and her aspirations for the future.
#RealEstateJourney #RealtorLife #ResidentialRealEstate #RealEstateTips #MarketKnowledge #RealEstateSuccess #WorkLifeBalance #RealEstateInsights #LocalMarketExpert #ContinualLearning #RealEstateChallenges #RelationshipFocused #RealEstateImpact #TeamBuilding #RealEstateAdvice
🗣️Notable Quotes:
“ it was important to get my health in order before I actually went full force because I knew I couldn't do. Um, my max capacity if I'm not healthy. ”
💡 Learn more about podcasting
🌐 Icons of Real Estate
🎙 Apply to be a Guest Speaker
📻 Real Estate Podcast
🎥 Podcast Framework Video
🛠 Podcast Framework
📇Connecting with Hailey Lebel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Hailey-Lebel-of-Hearth-Key-Realty-100089651060008/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merealtorhailey/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-lebel-748091343
Website: https://www.hearthandkeyrealty.com/agents/1345019/Hailey+Lebel
🎙️Connecting with Karen Roberts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IconsOfRealEstate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconsofrealestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iconsofrealestate/
Website: https://iconsofrealestate.com/