Keeping It Real Podcast • Secrets Of Top 1% REALTORS ® • Interviews With Real Estate Brokers & Agents

Amanda Pendleton, the Zillow house trends expert, unpacks fresh data on today’s buyers and sellers. Amanda discusses  the growing importance, and fragility, of buyer loyalty, why repeat clients often don’t return to their original agent, and the re‑engagement strategies top producers use to stay top of mind for 10–15 years between moves. Next, Amanda talks about how online research and AI are changing how consumers find agents, what a powerful digital presence and brand should look like in 2026. Amanda also emphasizes that GenZ is a bigger force in the market than most agents realize. Last, Amanda explores what today’s sellers really want and how data-driven agents can use Zillow’s insights to win more listings and build long-term loyalty. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to The Inner Game of Real Estate Success with high-performance hypnotherapist and mindset coach Paul Salter. In this episode of The Inner Game of Real Estate Success, Paul breaks down how past experiences create beliefs and behaviors designed to protect you in the moment—but often end up holding you back as you try to reach the next level. You’ll learn why these patterns form, how they quietly shape confidence, decision-making, and communication under pressure, and why more information or strategy won’t resolve them. This episode introduces memory reconsolidation and explains how hypnosis works to help you safely unlearn outdated beliefs and behaviors at the subconscious level. Paul clarifies what hypnosis is not, what it actually is, the science behind it, and how he uses it with high-performing real estate agents to release protective patterns that once served them—but now limit growth, leadership, and next-level performance. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Schedule a high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching session with Paul here. Learn more about mindset and performance coaching for real estate agents here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Kim Rittberg, award-winning video coach and former TV journalist, trains agents in video marketing and content strategy. She explains why your social front page must showcase expertise. Short bios should be searchable. Learn three essential video types and how on-location neighborhood clips build authority. Tips on quick profile facelifts and where to level up with deeper change.

Sarah Maslowski, a top 1% Atlanta agent who drove over $150M in sales from YouTube, unveils The YouTube Lab. She dives into why YouTube outlasts short-form platforms. Learn about searchable neighborhood videos, value-first content, low-cost gear and editors. Discover how AI, binge-watching and focusing on real leads turn videos into inbound business.

In our January episode, Carrie McCormick discusses the evolving real estate landscape in 2026. Carrie explores the shift from speed to strategy, the power of storytelling in pricing, and why reputation and strong client relationships are more crucial than ever for real estate success. Carrie also discusses how leading agents are adapting to market changes and building lasting brands. Please follow Carrie on Instagram. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! Carrie can be reached at carrie@atproperties.com or by phone at 312.961.4612. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Kristee Leonard shares her journey from helping her mother break into real estate to building a successful solo career. Kristee discusses the keys to her success: relentless work ethic, flexibility with clients, and a refusal to limit herself to a specific niche. She also discusses the importance of luxury branding and how social media—especially targeting other agents—has helped her generate valuable referrals. Last, Kristee talks about her challenges, future goals, and her belief in collaboration over competition within the real estate industry. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Kristee Leonard can be reached at Kristee@TheLeadersRealty.com and 512.695.5144 This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Marisa Kashino talks about her journey from journalist to novelist and her achievements, including “Best Offer Wins” and TV adaptations. Marisa discusses the differences between fiction and journalism, the importance of editors and coaches, and Marissa’s personal editing experiences. Next, Marisa unpacks the book’s themes of status, societal pressures, and female rage as experienced by both homebuyers and professional women. Marisa also talks about how social media and technology shape our perceptions of success and perfection, especially within real estate. Last, Marissa and DJ discuss industry practices like buyer “love letters” and share insights for both readers and real estate professionals. You can buy Marisa’s “Best Offer Wins” book here. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Please follow Marisa on Instagram here. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Tim Burrell shares the best and worst advice he’s received in real estate, emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and the value of working with the right clients. Tim discusses how cultivating rapport and trust can lead to more successful negotiations, and learn practical strategies for leveraging artificial intelligence to gain an edge in real estate deals. Tim also discusses collaborative negotiating and why trust and information-sharing are vital, and how empathy leads to better negotiation outcomes. Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Tim Burrell can be reached at (919) 812-5111. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Connie Mahan shares her inspiring journey from restaurant management to becoming Realtor of the Year in Central Florida. Connie talks about the value of building authentic community relationships, and her hands-on approach to leading and motivating her team. Connie also emphasizes the importance of mindset, gratitude, and resilience in overcoming industry challenges. Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  Connie Mahan can be reached at (352) 569-0233. This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Welcome to our monthly feature Unpopular Real Estate Opinions with Chris Linsell. In this episode, Chris discusses bold predictions about the possible transformation or decline of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) by 2026. The discussion delves into what value NAR, as well as state and local associations, truly provide to agents amidst shifting industry dynamics. Chris and D.J. propose a new vision for NAR focused on lobbying, national data initiatives, and raising standards for agent entry and ongoing training. Last, Chris and D.J. highlight the need for agents and organizations alike to adapt, level up skills, and provide unique value in an evolving market. Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here. Please check Chris’ profile on LinkedIn. If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!  This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.