

Thought Leaders – Real Estate Re-imagined (formerly The Elevate Podcast)
Elite Agent
Thought Leaders – Real Estate Re-imagined spotlights the outside-the-box minds rewriting how property is sold, leased and managed worldwide. Host Samantha McLean, editor of Elite Agent, shares frank, inspiring conversations with real estate practitioners as well as founders and entrepreneurs from outside the industry. Expect actionable playbooks on AI-powered prospecting, climate-change resilience, brand storytelling, next-gen leadership and talent retention. Each episode distils data and tactics you can apply immediately—whether you’re chasing your first million in GCI, steering a multi-office network or craving a better work-life balance. Subscribe to reimagine what’s possible and thrive in real estate’s new era.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 20, 2022 • 29min
Winning strategy: Scott Bateman on challenging your thinking, transforming your business, and why there is no best service
When it comes to creating a winning strategy, most agents would tell you that they have either the best people or the best service, but what does that even mean? Particularly when everyone else says the same thing.
Kolmeo’s Scott Bateman believes there is no best service. He also argues there’s a time when businesses should ignore their customers to deliver true innovation.
It’s thinking like this that has seen Scott build a highly successful career and become one of the most sought-after thought leaders in the industry when it comes to business growth and strategy.
Drawing on time spent at Harvard Business School, case study learning and 20 years leadership experience, Scott helps businesses unearth opportunities, find marketing clarity and define their true point of difference.
In this Elevate podcast with Elite Agent managing editor Smantha McLean, Scott offers a preview of the game-changing business strategy sessions he will deliver at Elite Retreat from July 31.
Scott looks at why businesses will either be cost leaders or service leaders, but there is no best service.
He delves into when businesses should stop asking their customers what they can do better, and instead turn to the people who don’t use their service to better understand opportunities that lie untapped.
He also shines a spotlight on the trends both inside and beyond the industry that will shape the future, and how they impact real estate operations in unexpected ways.
In the process, Scott looks at some of the key challenges facing the industry at the present and shares how business leaders can combat the ‘great resignation’ by delivering the right support and opportunities for their staff.
In a podcast that’s all about getting to the heart of what your business does and defining where you want it to go, Scott also provides the key questions every business should ask to change the playing field and create action.
“The problem is this: if you ask people what they want, they will inevitably tell you something which is a few per cent better than what they’re currently getting. The trap with that is it forces a situation in which businesses incrementally improve something, where they’re increasingly looking the same and building the same thing.
The best businesses actually don’t ask that question. They often don’t talk to the existing users of a thing. They go to the people who don’t use it, or don’t like how things are done. And they’ll learn from that.” – Scott Bateman
https://youtu.be/xnhk0YbmB6k
Scott and Samantha also discuss:
The current trends emerging in the industry and how leaders can define and use them to create a better business while also improving the experience of their staff.
How to mitigate the mass exodus from property management and why staff members need four key things from any employer.
Why case studies are a great way of unearthing opportunity in a business, and how you can use them to implement clear and actionable business strategy.
How to define your point of difference as a cost leader or service leader and why this matters to your customer.
Why the term ‘best service’ is a false truism, and often leads to business creating complex steps, extra tasks and unnecessary layers.
What business leaders can learn from IKEA and the alcohol-free beer movement when it comes to looking at business opportunity differently.
When a business should ignore their customer to create true innovation, and who they should be talking to instead.
Why ‘different’ and ‘better’ are two very separate things, and how knowing which one you provide creates clarity for your business.
How to pick the most important things to focus on in a business, including the key questions you should ask.
What Scott will offer at Elite Retreat from July 31 to August 3, and how it will provide attendees with clear strategies that they can immediately implement in their business.
And much, much more
Scott Bateman will be among the experts attending the upcoming Elite Retreat on July 31, where he will discuss the key trends impacting the industry and use real world case studies to help attendees unearth opportunity and create a winning strategy for their business.
You can find out more about Elite Retreat and the lineup of speakers and experts attending here.
Links and resources mentioned
Elite Retreat – July 31-August 3
Culture, Innovation, Strategy: Scale up your business at Elite Retreat
Scott on Elite Agent
Scott Bateman: A new year, a new beginning
Want to be a great leader? Focus on the followers
The problem with trust accounts: Scott Bateman
Finding new revenue models in real estate: Scott Bateman and Brock Fisher
How to master strategic thinking in real estate: Scott Bateman
Looking back, moving forward: Scott Bateman
Connect with Scott
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

May 13, 2022 • 30min
High-performing foundations: Marianne Hynes on psychological safety and how to unlock your team’s full potential by eliminating interpersonal risk
In real estate, the gold standard is a team with a high-performance culture. They’re the ones who consistently get the big results no matter what the market’s doing, without risk of burnout, high turnover, or low morale.
Key to that high performance is psychological safety, argues behavioural expert and psychological safety specialist Marianne Hynes.
She explains psychological safety is when every member of the team comes to work in the knowledge they have a voice, an important perspective and experience they can share without fear of being judged, ostracised or silenced.
In this episode of the Elevate Podcast with Elite Agent Managing Editor Samantha McLean, Marianne explains what psychological safety looks like within an organisation, the benefits it offers, and the strategies leaders can use to embrace it.
She notes teams with a foundation of psychological safety unlock five times greater productivity and performance, while also enjoying a more inclusive and collaborative workplace culture.
And in an age where everything is changing at an increasingly rapid pace, Marianne also explains why psychological safety will be key to the success of real estate agencies and teams moving forward.
“Now more than ever we’ve been asked to do more with less. And you can, if you know how to tap into the potential of your people. Psychological safety is foundational to a performance culture.” – Marianne Hynes
https://youtu.be/ZmYTdeXtq6c
Marianne and Samantha also discuss:
The true definition of psychological safety and how it involves every team member bringing their authentic and whole selves to the workplace.
How to create a culture of psychological safety and why it starts with the leader creating foundations of trust.
Why psychological safety unlocks up to five times greater performance in your team, and how it takes away the distraction of interpersonal risk management.
How to determine whether there’s a psychological safety problem in your organisation and the steps you can take to address it.
What questions to ask your team and how to lead by example to create a psychologically safe environment.
How psychological safety ensures greater creativity and creates an environment where people are valued for themselves, not just their performance.
Why psychological safety is the foundation of true wellbeing, and helps eliminate the need for quick fixes, fad initiatives or ad hoc intervention.
How psychological safety will be the differentiator between organisations in the future, and how you can build the right foundations now.
Plus much, much more…
Marianne Hynes will be among the experts attending the upcoming Elite Retreat on July 31, where she will share further strategies that forward thinking leaders can employ to create a psychologically safe environment that unlocks the full potential of a high-performing team.
You can find out more about Elite Retreat and the lineup of speakers and experts attending here.
Links and resources mentioned
Quantum Leap Global
Building a story brand – by Donald Miller
The Big Leap – by Gay Hendricks
Profit First – by Mike Michalowicz
Atomic Habits – by James clear
Connect with Marianne
Website
LinkedIn

May 6, 2022 • 34min
Moments that matter: Jeff Gray talks prospecting, property management and the AI that allows agents to join all the dots
What if technology could tell you what house to doorknock, who to pick up the phone and call, when to make contact and why?
Real estate prospecting would become far more efficient, more targeted, and more insightful. Meaningful relationships with potential clients would become easier to build and sustain.
Propic’s Jeff Gray explains that tech is already at the industry’s fingertips and there’s far more to come courtesy of the big-wide world of ever-evolving AI.
In this episode of the Elevate podcast with Elite Agent managing editor Samantha McLean, Jeff walks through the innovations in artificial intelligence that are changing the landscape of both real estate sales and property management.
He looks at how they’ve come about, what they can help agents and PMs do, and how they offer a better, more engaged, and satisfying client experience.
In the process, Jeff notes AI is improving the efficiency of agents and the wellbeing of property managers, offering both the opportunity to focus on the moments that matter in real estate.
And he says there’s so much more to come as AI steps in to become a real estate staff member that’s on the clock 24/7, 365 days a year.
Within years, he predicts the technology will identify client’s intentions, conducting highly personalised conversations with property owners about their home, its value, upcoming maintenance and so much more.
But this isn’t some futuristic, abstract, or tech-laden conversation. This is a former agent talking about technology that is making a difference in real estate right now in real and tangible ways.
In a podcast that covers the applications of AI across real estate, Jeff offers a down-to-earth, fascinating and actionable discussion about how technology is shifting the landscape now and what it’s set to achieve in the future.
“It’s now moving to a stage where AI can just do what humans can’t do in the milliseconds at 11 o’clock at night or two o’clock in the morning. That’s where AI plays a role, augmenting or helping what we do in our work hours.” Jeff Gray.
https://youtu.be/IJQ7B4tJPig
Samantha and Jeff also discuss:
How Jeff went from agent to PropTech founder and why he wishes the tech he’s created had been around when he started out in real estate.
Why AI has now arrived at the point where it is no longer defined by its presence but its absence when it comes to improving the customer experience.
How AI assists with prospecting, identifying which properties are primed for a transaction, including who to call, when to call, what to say and which houses to door knock.
The ways that AI is relieving the strain of property management, and why it is now incumbent upon leaders to empower their teams with the right tech tools.
How AI will shape real estate in the years to come and why it will shift from a prompt to actually having highly-engaging and meaningful conversations on an agent’s behalf.
The projects Propic currently has in the pipeline and why they are all focussed on empowering the agent and property manager, along with their all-important clients.
Why artificial intelligence is not to be feared, but instead embraced as a tool that augments and assists real estate professionals become more focussed and more efficient, while eliminating the mundane.
How artificial intelligence can help you set the tone of your real estate business, delivering consistency, efficiency and a better experience for both staff and customers.
Where the technology is heading, including other innovations that will shape the industry and transform it over the next 10 years.
And much, much more…
Want to know more about what the future of real estate holds? The Propic team will be among those attending Elite Retreat, where they will offer an insight into trends emerging and how you can tap them to ride the next property market wave.
You can find out more about Elite Retreat and the lineup of speakers and experts attending here.
Links and resources mentioned
Propic
Property Realm
Antony Catalano
Alex Waislitz
Leah Jay
Elite Retreat
Jeff Gray on Elite Agent
Propic acquires Property Realm to create intelligent AI platform to ease stress levels
Propic appoints head of innovation amid record growth
Place Estate Agents open around the clock with Propic AI
Propic and MRI Software join forces to bring conversational AI to property managers
Antony Catalano and Alex Waislitz invest $6 million in AI business Propic
New software solution launched with Jeffery Gray as CEO
Connect with Jeff
Website
LinkedIn

Apr 29, 2022 • 54min
The D’Luxe Nuts: A real-world recap of Season 2 episode 6 plus an exclusive interview with Monika Tu
Just as we were becoming accustomed to our weekly dose of luxury properties, stunning Sydney views, and a wealth of timeless agent one-liners, the credits have rolled on the final episode of Luxe Listings Sydney season 2.
While it’s time to temporarily step back from our home grown guilty binging pleasure, there were plenty of real-life industry takeaways to be gleaned from the finale.
In this episode of D’Luxe Nuts, Elite Agent managing editor Samantha McLean and industry trainer Dave Skow unpack the real-world real estate lessons of episode 6 along with highlights of the whole season.
They discuss the highs and the lows of the series, the lessons that translate to real estate everywhere and look at the masterclass tutorials that some of the industry’s best-known agents offer when it comes to negotiation, vendor management, property marketing, creating a point of difference, and more.
As a highlight of this week’s podcast, Dave also spends time with this year’s season newcomer, Monika Tu, who shares her thoughts on entering the show, how agents can work together, and how she offers world-class customer service.
Monika provides her perspective on the advantages of co-listing and why it can be a major benefit to vendors, and shares an insight into the authentic personality that has made her one of this season’s big drawcards.
Samantha and Dave also take a deep-dive into the actionable elements of the episode that agents can apply to their own business, including how to manage a vendor who has high expectations and why Gavin Rubinstein is a master in this space.
With thanks from Sponsor Issuu, as a special offer, readers/listeners of Elite Agent Elevate can get started with Issuu today for FREE or if you sign up for an annual premium account to get 50% off when you go to by visiting issuu.com and using the promo code ELITE.
There’s also an opportunity to pull out the pens and take note of exactly how to handle a conversation about your unique selling proposition, point of difference and that all-important elevator pitch.
And yes, it’s an episode that offers some welcome closure on big issues like the agent takeover of Laing + Simmons, whether Simon Cohen and Gavin’s bromance can survive business, and the question on everyone’s lips – who could possibly live up to the legacy of Gav’s exceptional assistant Remi?
There’s also an insight into what Ray White TRG is up to next and the cliffhanger of who will find the ultimate pad for Australian singing icon Delta Goodrem.
“Sometimes you have difficult cases. Sometimes you have easy cases. You know what? Just do the best you can. I never look at the results. I look at every day and think ‘Have I done the best I can?’. By doing that, I feel like every day is a new day and I can sleep knowing I’ve done the best I can.” – Monika Tu
Samantha and Dave also discuss:
Why a clear definition of your unique selling proposition and point of difference is essential, and how to identify each.
How to master the elevator pitch and the ways you can use vendor questions to get a listing across the line.
How a vendor’s major research always takes place online, and why questions are the opportunity for you to ensure your persona matches up with what they expect.
How Monika Tu brings authenticity, enthusiasm and a sense of humour to the real estate transaction and why it attracts vendors and buyers.
Why TRG’s attention to detail is the key to their success and how they apply this trait in property marketing, presentation, vendor management and beyond.
How top-performing agents maintain their energy and the ways they go above and beyond to manage vendors, buyers, and property marketing.
Why time in reconnaissance is never time wasted and how market knowledge and research helps you have better conversations with buyers and sellers.
Why auctions can help provide momentum for a sale and how to ensure the highest possible offer is on the table by the time the hammer falls.
How to have a tough conversation with a vendor with high expectations and why it’s all about a careful balance of listening, providing expert advice, and honouring their wishes.
And much, much more…
Links and resources mentioned
The official Luxe Listings playlist on Amazon Music
The official Luxe Listings playlist on Spotify
Podcast with Cara Atchison
Podcast with Damien Cooley
Podcast with Michael Pallier
Luxe Listings Amazon Prime
The D’Luxe Nuts: Nuts for all things Luxe – our real-life real estate recap of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 1
The D’Luxe Nuts season 2 recaps
Luxe Listings Season 1 recaps
About the agents
Gavin Rubinstein, Ray White TRG
D’Leanne Lewis, Laing+Simmons Double Bay
Simon Cohen, Cohen Handler
Monika Tu, Black Diamondz (new to season 2)
Damien Cooley, Cooley Auctions
Connect with Dave Skow
Dave Skow

Apr 29, 2022 • 38min
The money mindset: Michael de Haan on how to overcome limiting beliefs, charge what your worth, and enjoy financial wellbeing
Why is it only 20 per cent of agents reach that magic million dollar GCI milestone? And why do most max out their earning potential around five years into a real estate career?
It could come down to your money mindset and the limiting beliefs you have about finances, according to certified financial planner, Michael de Haan.
As the founder of Quantum Leap Global, Michael works with individuals and business owners to reframe their thinking around money and success.
He notes there are eight common money mindsets and they’re established as early as childhood.
That might mean your parents’ approach to money is the baggage you carry with you today. And it could be affecting everything from the way you do and don’t talk about money to the financial reward you believe you deserve.
In this episode of the Elevate podcast with Elite Agent managing editor Samantha McLean, Michael takes a deep dive into the money mindset looking at how it impacts your financial wellbeing, how it affects business, and how it might even be the root cause of your struggle to justify your commission to clients.
He offers tips on how you can have an honest conversation with yourself about your approach to money, define your money type and reframe that thinking for greater financial empowerment.
He also looks at how financial stress has a dire impact on the workplace and shares his tips on what leaders can do to address an issue that manifests as lost productivity, lost workplace satisfaction, lost creativity and so much more.
No matter where you are in your real estate journey or what role you play in the industry, this is an invaluable podcast that will see you question the way you think about money, rethink what you believe you deserve, and empower you to take action to secure your financial wellbeing for the future as part of a life you design.
“If you’ve got that awareness and curiosity about what’s happening in your life and you’re saying, ‘Hey, I want to make some changes’, reach out to the right people to get that support and then dig in deep enough and then change it. You can change the narrative, change the story, change your life.” – Michael de Haan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxNAKRnDdnU&t=5s
Samantha and Michael also discuss:
How your money mindset is shaped, the different types and how they impact your financial wellbeing.
Why your money mindset isn’t about the way you spend money, but instead, how you approach your finances.
How to identify your personal money mindset then shift it to one that serves your vision, goals and lifestyle.
Why the money mindset relates directly to real estate during the oft-dreaded fee conversation, and how negotiating what you are worth showcases your skills to a seller.
What novice agents should do to get started on the right financial footing and how that translates to professional skill.
Why agents reach a glass earning ceiling five years into their career, and what you can do to get out of the rut.
How the money mindset affects business success, and why you should take a profit-first approach as an entrepreneur or leader.
Why financial stress is one of the biggest issues all employees face, affecting team productivity and performance, and how leaders can help their staff attain financial wellbeing.
How financial wellbeing relates directly to mental health and general wellbeing, and why money mindset and your life vision should be part of a holistic approach to life.
Michael’s favourite resources for learning how to identify and manage your money mindset.
And much, much more…
Links and resources mentioned
Quantum Leap Global
Barefoot Investor – Scott Pape
Profit First – Mike Michalowicz
The Law of Attraction – Esther and Jerry Hicks
The Heart of Money – Deborah L Price
Connect with Michael
Website
LinkedIn

Apr 22, 2022 • 43min
Expert commentator: Tim McIntyre on building your media profile, pitching to journalists, and what’s at the heart of a great real estate story
Plenty of well-known real estate agents owe at least part of the career success to media coverage.
But becoming an agent that journalists pick up the phone and call can be easier said than done. So why do some agents and properties attract more media attention than others?
As the editor of three of Sydney’s most prestigious publications, NewsCorp’s Tim McIntyre has worked with some of the best-known real estate agents in the country.
He says their knack for making the news comes down to understanding what makes a great story and positioning themselves as expert commentators with superior market knowledge.
In this episode of the Elevate Podcast with Elite Agent Managing Editor Samantha McLean, Tim looks at what makes a real estate news story, how agents can foster a great relationship with journalists, and the ways a media presence can benefit your career.
He explains the surprising story angles that result in a property attracting huge media attention, and the things every agent should have in their media kit if they’re looking to be the industry expert that journalists have on speed dial.
And he notes you don’t need to be an award-winner, drive the flashiest car or sell luxury properties. Instead, it’s about being motivated and driven, and delivering information and insight that readers can relate to.
“They (agents) know more about what’s happening in their local market than anybody else, because they transact in property, they deal in property and prospect for it day-in, day out…they can tell you the market’s slowing down now, or it’s gathering steam now. And that’s the information that’s really valuable to journalists and to readers.” Tim McIntyre
https://youtu.be/cBXv2YCKbvE
Samantha and Tim also discuss:
How to handle media inquiries, including what information to provide and the pitfalls every agent should avoid.
The importance of having a media kit, what you should have in it, and how it can make you a journalist’s preferred contact.
How to position yourself as an expert commentator, including the type of insight and information that the media and their audience seek.
Tim’s favourite real estate stories and why they struck a chord with readers locally, nationally and even overseas.
The benefits a viral real estate story offers when it comes to raising an agent’s profile and how a great story can help sell even the toughest properties.
Why working with the media is never about selling yourself but instead involves considering what value you can offer.
How journalists and agents share the challenge of public mistrust and what you can do to overcome it when working with the media.
The weird and wonderful angles to consider when it comes to pitching a property or a story to a newsroom.
Why every agent should ‘be like Bill Malouf’ when it comes to forging a great relationship with real estate journalists who know the industry inside-out.
How paid, earned and owned media work together to raise your profile and position you front of mind with potential clients.
And much, much more…
Links and resources mentioned
Luxe Listings Season 1 recaps
Luxe Listings Season 2
Making the news: Elizabeth Tilley on how to work with the media and why you should think big when it comes to marketing and editorial
Just start: Ryan Serhant on seizing the moment, global ambition, and the three pillars of building a real estate brand
How Josh Tesolin wrote a million dollars in his first year of real estate
Bill Malouf
Connect with Tim McIntyre
Website
LinkedIn

Apr 15, 2022 • 55min
The D’Luxe Nuts: A real-world recap of Season 2 episode 5 plus an exclusive with D’Leanne Lewis
We’re heading rapidly for the conclusion of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 2 with deals happening all over Sydney – Gavin has temporarily flown the Eastern Suburbs nest for the shire and at the same time, the doctor wants him in his office stat. The Laing+Simmons deal has stalled. Simon and Gavin still aren’t talking…
This is where we pick up on episode 5 with new houses, new experiences and one agent at least who is hoping the drama llamas will finally calm the farm.
In this episode of D’Luxe Nuts, Elite Agent Managing Editor Samantha McLean and industry trainer and coach David Skow recap episode 5, unpacking a new buyer, auction action once again with Damien Cooley, agent ‘achievement’ plans, what to do with unreasonable clients, and looking at the differences in how things are done between city and country agents.
In an exclusive Elite Agent interview, Dave also catches up with D’Leanne Lewis, talking about some of the keys to her success, what’s happening with Season 3, and how she rises above when the world of real estate becomes chaotic. She also reveals why there is absolutely no substitute for experience.
With thanks from Sponsor Issuu, as a special offer, readers/listeners of Elite Agent Elevate can get started with Issuu today for FREE or if you sign up for an annual premium account to get 50% off when you go to by visiting issuu.com and using the promo code ELITE.
Of course, there is also some fabulous property to look at featuring homes in Double Bay, Sylvania Waters and a truly spectacular home in Bellevue Hill.
In the process, Gavin and Simon offer an insight into their work practices, including what it takes to be an agent operating in one of Australia’s most competitive real estate markets.
There are takeaways on getting ready for auctions, working with auctioneers, looking after your health, and why you have to keep it clean in a small industry.
We can’t say there are cliff-hangers at the end of this episode but we are left wondering… is there really such a thing as a workout suit? How does a buyer’s agent get a 25 per cent price reduction on a dream property? How will Gavin’s team cope with turning their phones off at the two-year TRG party… all of which, no doubt, will have some very good answers.
“Unoverwhelmability: When everything goes big, you go quiet, ” – D’Leanne Lewis.
Samantha and Dave also discuss:
What being “hyperlocal” really means and how to use it in your marketing
How to deal with demanding clients particularly when they decide to call in ‘favours’
Why your health should always be your number 1 priority – and how Gavin Rubinstein dealt with his health scare
The need to manage relationships in a small industry like real estate
The evidence of how crazy the Sydney real estate market went last year in some suburbs
Working the auction floor – and how it’s different in the regions where the listing agent is often the auctioneer
The symbiotic relationship between auctioneer and agent (where the roles are adopted by two different people – as usual in city areas)
Why hope is not a strategy on auction day and you need to have done the work before auction day to get the result on auction day
What to do with your underbidders
The high performing habit of meditation and how it can help you deal with rejection, rebalance and renew… (or not…as was the case with Gavin and Simon…)
Plus much, much more…
Links and resources mentioned
Thee official Luxe Listings playlist on Amazon Music
The official Luxe Listings playlist on Spotify
Podcast with Cara Atchison
Podcast with Damien Cooley
Luxe Listings Amazon Prime
The D’Luxe Nuts: Nuts for all things Luxe – our real-life real estate recap of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 1
Luxe Listings Season 1 recaps
About the agents
Gavin Rubinstein, Ray White TRG
D’Leanne Lewis, Laing+Simmons Double Bay
Simon Cohen, Cohen Handler
Monika Tu, Black Diamondz (new to season 2)
Damien Cooley, Cooley Auctions
Connect with Dave Skow
Dave Skow

Apr 8, 2022 • 1h 2min
The D’Luxe Nuts: A real world recap of episode 4 along with exclusive interviews with Gavin Rubinstein and Simon Cohen
Tensions were running high when the credits rolled on episode 3 of Luxe Listings Season 2. A failed clifftop deal had prompted friction between Gavin and Simon, the market was tight, listings were in short supply and TRG had been told to pump the brakes on plans for expansion.
It left a whole lot of questions about whether Gavin Rubinstein had well and truly coloured Simon Cohen out of his colouring book along with how TRG would cope with Remi’s upcoming absence, and what it would take for the agents of Laing+Simmons to purchase their whole brand.
In this episode of D’Luxe Nuts, Elite Agent Managing Editor Samantha McLean and industry trainer and coach David Skow recap episode 4, unpacking all the drama that unfolded, along with the key takeaways for real-world agents that translate well beyond Sydney’s picturesque eastern beaches.
In an exclusive Elite Agent interview, Samantha also catches up with Gavin Rubinstein and Simon Cohen, asking how the series has impacted their business, whether Simon would be tempted by a series on the Bachelor, and what they really think about new agent addition Monika Tu of Black Diamondz.
With thanks from Sponsor Issuu, as a special offer, readers/listeners of Elite Agent Elevate can get started with Issuu today for FREE or if you sign up for an annual premium account to get 50% off when you go to by visiting issuu.com and using the promo code ELITE.
As to whether they’ve mended their friendship, that question is also answered amidst all the ribbing you would expect from two quick witted, competitive agents who happen to be masters of one liners.
In the process, Gavin and Simon offer an insight into their work practices, including what it takes to be an agent operating in one of Australia’s most competitive real estate markets.
There are takeaways on building a team, including how hiring the right people gives you additional capacity.
Gavin offers an insight into the personal toll a high-performing career can take and both agents discuss how they navigate the work/life balance.
Simon and Gavin also hint at some of their plans for the future, share their favourite moments from the show, and provide a backstage insight into what the agents in the series are really like.
And they have some important tips for anyone seeking to build a real estate business that is market proof no matter whether there’s an economic downturn, an election, rising interest rates, or a shortage of listings.
“If you build a good enough business and your practice is strong enough and you know how to add value to your vendors, you become recession proof, you become market proof… it becomes irrelevant because what you need to remember is everybody always needs to buy and sell.” Gavin Rubinstein.
Samantha and Dave also discuss:
Lessons in marketing and why it’s important to differentiate, including what makes a TRG property, and whether one in Sylvania Waters might pass muster.
How to keep the listings coming, even when the market is tight and properties are in demand but vendors are in short supply, and why the best operators aren’t affected by market conditions.
Why it’s important agents ask the right question at the right time, and how Moniku Tu uses this skill to navigate an emotional sale.
How to overcome objections, including a masterclass from Gavin Rubinstein where he showcases the thinking and research required to get past reluctance from clients.
Why every agent needs a Remi on their team, how they can attract and retain a team member of high calibre, and what the right team allows a great agent to accomplish
How to present a home to best effect, the value that staging can offer, and how to have the staging conversation with a hesitant vendor.
Why personal health and wellbeing needs to come first for every single real estate professional, and how to ensure you don’t neglect your own needs in the push to get the deals done.
The changes afoot at both TRG and Laing+Simmons, and how to overcome setbacks to achieve the result you want.
Plus much, much more…
Links and resources mentioned
Luxe Listings Amazon Prime
The D’Luxe Nuts: Nuts for all things Luxe – our real life real estate recap of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 1
Luxe Listings Season 1 recaps
About the agents
Gavin Rubinstein, Ray White TRG
D’Leanne Lewis, Laing+Simmons Double Bay
Simon Cohen, Cohen Handler
Monika Tu, Black Diamondz (new to season 2)
Connect with Dave Skow
Dave Skow

Apr 7, 2022 • 35min
Maximising potential: Haesley Cush talks partnering, succession and investing in the dreams of your team
Haesley Cush and Matt Lancashire are rightly regarded as one of the most successful partnerships in real estate.
Together they’ve made Ray White New Farm the top Ray White office in Queensland while also expanding their business to encompass additional areas such as Bulimba and East Brisbane.
What might be less well-known is this expansion is often part of a succession plan, where Haesley and Matt tap the talents of their own team and guide them towards their personal business ambitions.
The plan sees them identify the business dreams of their agents, foster the necessary leadership skills, help set them up financially, and then partner with them for a period as an agent launches their own office.
The pair then step away when the business is profitable and established, in a move that Haesley notes is mutually beneficial for all parties involved.
In this edition of Elevate with podcast producer Cass Charlesworth, Haesley walks through the elements of a successful succession partnership, including the benefits for both existing business owners and the members of their team.
He outlines the skills they look for in future business partners, the values that make those partnerships work, and the guidance they deliver to ensure new offices attain success.
Haesley also explains why a succession plan is a great way of fostering talent within your own business, along with outlining the mutually beneficial skills that each party brings to the deal.
In a podcast that’s part business best practice and part insight into Haseley’s highly successful career, he discusses the personal lessons he learnt when he first went into business along with the mistakes he made along the way, and shares an insight into why he’s gone from partnership opponent to avid partnership fan.
And – as it’s the ever-enigmatic Haesley Cush – you better believe you’re in for an entertaining, yet down-to-earth ride that showcases leadership ability, speaks to the ambition of the industry and highlights the skills needed for business success.
“Our succession journey is, we want to partner with people that want to open businesses. We want to provide them all the value they need for the things they don’t have and then eventually, we do a partnership agreement. The day you don’t want us is the day we will leave.” Haesley Cush
https://youtu.be/Xe31ZgCBavA
Haesley and Cass also discuss:
What makes an agent a potential business leader, and why it’s got nothing to do with their ability to sell real estate.
Why established business owners are well-positioned to guide their agents towards their business ambitions, and how doing so can be mutually beneficial.
Which skills each member of a partnership needs to bring to the table, and how to forge a relationship that results in business success.
How to guide talented agents towards their own business success by fostering the skills they need and offering them the support they require.
The business pitfalls that a partnership with experienced operators can help an agent overcome when it comes to starting their own venture.
Why Haesley’s ultimate aim is to see his agents succeed in their own business, and when he knows it’s the right time to walk away in the knowledge they’re ready to go it alone.
The lessons Haesley learned when he first went into business, and how he prevents the agents he works with from repeating his mistakes.
How Haesley and Matt Lancashire complement each other’s strengths, and the guidelines that ensure their partnership remains steadfast.
And much much more…
Links and resources mentioned
Ray White New Farm
Ray White Bulimba
Ray White Toowong
Ray White Clayfield
Matt Lancashire
Jason Andrew
Haesley on Elite Agent
Ray White Queensland has celebrated its top performers
Almost $30m of property sold at Ray White prestige auction
Brisbane property big guns on expansion drive
Connect with Haesley
Website
LinkedIn

Apr 1, 2022 • 1h 17min
The D’Luxe Nuts: Our real life real estate recap of eps 1, 2 and 3 of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 2
When Luxe Listings Season 1 finished, there were plenty of questions left unanswered. Would loyalties shift? Would Sydney landmarks sell? And why would Gavin Rubinstein be summoned by the big boss?
On April 1, Season 2 of the hit series dropped and the savvy producers at Amazon Prime swiftly get down to business.
There’s a smorgasbord of Sydney glam, a bevy of stunning harbour vistas, some seriously valuable property and some cutting-edge real estate skills all at play.
That’s not to say it’s all smooth sailing, however…
The latest season of Luxe Listings is set in a very different property market against the backdrop of a pandemic where changed agent insight is required.
With thanks from Sponsor Issuu, as a special offer, readers/listeners of Elite Agent Elevate can get started with Issuu today for FREE or if you sign up for an annual premium account to get 50% off when you go to by visiting issuu.com and using the promo code ELITE.
In this edition of the D’Luxe Nuts, Samantha McLean and Dave Skow pick up where season 1 left off, looking at the shift in the market, the new selling skills required and we also meet some new stars including Monika Tu of Black Diamondz.
That’s right…There’s a new addition to the Luxe Listings cast and things are set to ramp up a notch.
In this first recap of the series, we break down eps 1, 2 and 3 of Luxe Listings Sydney, Season 2, looking at all that’s unfolded along with the real estate lessons learned.
There’s takeaways on leadership, insights into handling the challenge of staffing, hot tips on how to market unique property and inadvertent masterclasses on the art of closing the deal.
Like a box of chocolates you can’t step away from, this season already offers a lot to unwrap and enjoy.
“Sometimes these things just don’t work out and it wouldn’t be in the best interest of my client to try and force them out. Ultimately they don’t want to move. I’m not going to try and make them move.” D’Leanne Lewis.
Samantha and Dave also discuss:
How Gavin navigates some staffing news many leaders readily relate to, and how each of the Luxe Listings agents approaches building a team.
Why real estate all about putting the needs of the client first, even if it comes at the cost of a professional relationship.
An insight into the major workings of real estate franchises, including the agent buyout of Laing+Simmons.
How the role of selling agents and buying agents shifts in a hot property market, and the skills required by each to achieve the best outcomes.
Why working with buyers and sellers can sometimes be like a house of cards, and what to do when the deals start to fall over.
The importance of hyper-local market knowledge and how it shapes the skill set of top-performing agents.
Why resilience is critical and how each agent navigates inevitable setbacks along the way.
And much, much more
Links and resources mentioned
Luxe Listings Amazon Prime
The D’Luxe Nuts: Nuts for all things Luxe – our real life real estate recap of Luxe Listings Sydney Season 1
Luxe Listings Season 1 recaps
About the agents
Gavin Rubinstein, Ray White TRG
D’Leanne Lewis, Laing+Simmons Double Bay
Simon Cohen, Cohen Handler
Monika Tu, Black Diamondz (new to season 2)
Connect with Dave Skow
Dave Skow


