Alabama Lake House Podcasts | What Makes This Smith Lake Property the Right Choice

On this episode of the Alabama Lake House Podcast, host Jason Will sits down with Cindy Myrex of Lake Homes Realty, a Smith Lake and Cullman County specialist, alongside her clients Bill and Lisa, the owners of 16 Big View Dr in Houston, Alabama — the featured property in this episode.

This conversation walks through a real Smith Lake buying journey — from the initial search to what ultimately made 16 Big View Dr feel like the one. Cindy shares her local expertise on navigating Smith Lake’s unique coves, views, access, and long-term value, while Bill and Lisa offer firsthand insight into what mattered most to them as buyers.

✨ In this episode, we cover:— Why 16 Big View Dr stood out on Smith Lake— Understanding location, views, and cove dynamics— What buyers should look for beyond the house itself— The importance of working with a Smith Lake specialist— Long-term value and lifestyle considerations— How this property fits into the bigger Smith Lake picture— Turning a lake house search into a true home decision

Whether you’re considering buying on Smith Lake, curious about what real buyers prioritize, or want insight from one of the area’s most experienced realtors, this episode offers a clear, honest look at how successful lake purchases happen.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support the Alabama Lake House Podcast.

➡️ Jason M. Will Real Estate BrokerAlabama Lake House Guide BluePrint Realty Company Licensed Since 2004Direct (call or text): 251-583-9728

☑️ Tour Active Smith Lake Listings - https://smithlakeactivelistings.com☑️ Watch More Smith Lake Content - https://smithlakealabamarealty.com

➡️ Diana Will Senior Loan OfficerMortgage Right of BirminghamNMLS 1740691Direct (call or text): 251-508-1336👉 Apply for Mortgage here - http://dianawillteam.com

Alabama Lake House Podcast | Inside Smith Lake’s Top Dock Builder With Justin Hogan

Go inside Smith Lake’s top dock builder on this episode of the Alabama Lake House Podcast as host Jason Will sits down with Justin Hogan, owner and co-founder of Free State Boat Docks.

With more than 25 years of experience, Free State Boat Docks has built more docks on Smith Lake than all other competitors combined. In this episode, Justin breaks down how their team has grown alongside the lake — constantly evolving dock design, materials, and construction processes to meet changing water levels, regulations, and homeowner expectations.

✨ We dive into:— How Free State Boat Docks became the #1 dock builder on Smith Lake— What separates a long-lasting dock from costly mistakes— How dock design has evolved as Smith Lake has grown— Permitting, planning, and common dock-building pitfalls— Why a quality dock directly impacts lake property value— Materials, engineering, and durability explained— What the future of dock construction looks like on Smith Lake

Whether you’re planning a new dock, upgrading an existing one, or buying lakefront property, this episode offers real-world insight from the most experienced dock builder on Smith Lake.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support the Alabama Lake House Podcast.

➡️ Jason M. Will Real Estate BrokerAlabama Lake House Guide BluePrint Realty Company Licensed since 2004Direct (call or text): 251-583-9728

✅ Tour Active Smith Lake Listings - https://smithlakeactivelistings.com✅ Watch More Smith Lake Content - https://smithlakealabamarealty.com

➡️ Diana Will Senior Loan OfficerMortgage Right of BirminghamNMLS 1740691Direct (call or text): 251-508-1336👉 Apply for Mortgage - https://dianawillteam.com

Inside Shady Cove: Derek Miller on Redefining Lake House Design

Step inside Shady Cove with us on this episode of the Alabama Lake House Podcast as host Jason Will sits down with Derek Miller of Emerald Homes Group — one of the most intentional and design-driven builders rising on Smith Lake.

In this episode, Derek shares how Emerald Homes is redefining lake house design through thoughtful lot selection, custom finishes, warm interiors, and turnkey solutions that make lake living effortless. From custom cabinetry and wood-toned warmth to multi-level outdoor zones and smart bedroom layouts, this Shady Cove build shows what happens when creativity meets craftsmanship.

We cover:

— The vision behind Emerald Homes Group

— How Derek blends marketing, design & construction

— Why Shady Cove is one of Smith Lake’s most protected, desirable spots

— Smart floor plans: double masters + flexible bunk options

— Cove living vs. main channel living — and why it matters

— Full turnkey setup, STR readiness & first-year management

— Wood tones, board & batten, and intentional design choices

— Why this location offers instant equity + unmatched convenience

Whether you're dreaming of a lake home, shopping for new construction, or love great design — this walkthrough of Shady Cove will give you a whole new appreciation for what a modern lake house can be.

➡️ Jason M. Will 

Real Estate Broker

BluePrint Realty Company 

Alabama Lake Shark

Lake Lifestyle Upgrade Specialist 

Direct (call or text): 251-583-9728

Tour More Smith Lake Listings - https://smithlakeactivelistings.com

Watch More Smith Lake Home Tours - https://smithlakealabamarealty.com

Listen to the Smith Lakers Podcast - https://smithlakers.com

Shop Smith Lake Gear - https://smithlakestore.com

➡️ Diana Will 

Senior Loan Officer

Mortgage Right of Birmingham

NMLS 1740691

Direct (call or text): 251-508-1336

Apply for Mortgage - www.dianawillteam.com

This week, Jason sits down with Payton Scott Downs — better known as The Dock Doctor — for an unexpectedly powerful conversation about dock safety, smart upgrades, and the life-changing leap that took him from rock bottom to building one of Smith Lake’s fastest-growing service companies.

You’ll learn:

— When to inspect a dock before (or after) buying a lake house

— The three BIG warning signs that mean trouble is coming

— Why your cables should never be too tight

— Electrical mistakes that can turn deadly

— Affordable upgrades that dramatically improve lake life

— How one small job sparked a whole new purpose

This is more than dock talk. It’s hustle, heart, and the power of saying yes to the unknown.

Smith Lakers Podcast | Vacation Rental Mastery with Bob Ekman

In this episode of Smith Lakers, we go behind the scenes of Clearwater Shores with Bob Ekman, owner/operator and hospitality veteran with more than five decades of experience.

Bob shares how he’s turned vacation rentals into a true craft — blending professional marketing, personal guest touches, and a guest-first mindset to create unforgettable family traditions. From professional photography and signage to welcome videos and custom experiences, Bob reveals what makes Clearwater Shores stand out on Smith Lake.

If you’ve ever wondered how to run a successful short-term rental — or you just love hearing stories about hospitality, family, and life on Smith Lake — this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

Smith Lakers Podcast | Selling the Dream — A Conversation with Mr. Smith Lake

In this episode of Smith Lakers, we sit down with the one and only Justin Dyar—aka Mr. Smith Lake. With over $2 billion in lakefront real estate sales, Justin shares his journey from selling cars to becoming the most recognized name on Smith Lake. We dive into the mindset behind his unmatched success, the unique nuances of buying and selling lake homes, and the trends shaping the future of Smith Lake.

From the importance of boat docks to the reality of lakefront living, Justin unpacks what buyers really need to know. Plus, hear his favorite part of a Smith Lake day, the evolution of the area, and why this place is still in its “infancy” stage.

Whether you’re a real estate pro, a potential buyer, or just a lake life lover—this episode is full of insights, laughs, and Justin’s signature “shock them with follow-up” wisdom.

Calling Smith Lake Home and Stripe Bass Fishing Mastery with Local Legend, Richard Kessinger.

Welcome back to Smith Lakers Podcast — Episode 2 is packed with heart, humor, and hometown pride as we sit down with Rich, a true Smith Lake local legend creating deep roots through his big personality and even bigger passion for fishing.

In this episode, Richard shares what it’s like growing up in the Smith Lake area, why he chose to build his life and business here, and what the lake means to him beyond just a beautiful view. From childhood memories to paddle boarding with his kids, and from real estate ventures to legacy building — this conversation captures the spirit of small-town resilience and lakefront dreams.

What It Really Takes: To create a Successful Marriage, raise Thriving Children, & built Profitable Businesses in a small southern town they're proud to call home?!

In Part 2 of our conversation with Cullman, AL Entrepreneurs Shane and Laura Quick, we dive deeper into the heart behind their work and the vision that fuels it. Shane shares more about the grit and grind of organizing Rock the South—one of the South’s largest country music festivals—while Laura opens up about her journey building Good Grit Magazine into a voice for Southern culture and purpose-driven storytelling.

Together, they get real about the challenges of balancing ambition with family, and how they’ve grown as partners in life and in leadership. It’s a candid look at faith, business, and staying grounded when things get loud—literally and figuratively.

Whether you're chasing big dreams or just need a little inspiration, this episode offers a powerful mix of heart, hustle, and honesty.

The Real Story Behind Rock the South's Success

Welcome to the very first episode of the Smith Lakers podcast, where we sit down with inspiring Smith Lake locals living life on the water and making waves far beyond its shores.

In Part 1 of our conversation with power couple Shane and Laura Quick, we dive deep into their journey—from personal tragedy and factory shifts to building some of the most influential platforms in music and media. Shane, the founder of Rock the South, shares how a local tragedy inspired the creation of a now-iconic music festival. Laura, the CEO of Good Grit Magazine, opens up about entrepreneurship, finding community in small-town Alabama, and her passion for telling stories that matter.