Coffee & Closings

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Julian Douglas, founder of JD Real Estate Media, to talk about how he built a real estate photography and media business from the ground up. Julian shares his journey from barber school to buying his first drone, learning photography through YouTube, and starting with nothing more than an iPhone and a vision to create something bigger for himself and his future family. 

The conversation dives into the creative side of real estate photography, building systems, balancing a full-time job while growing a business, and the importance of consistency during slow seasons. Ethan and Julian also discuss social media marketing, client relationships, expanding throughout North Carolina, and what it takes to turn a side hustle into a full-time business. Plus, they talk football, coffee, entrepreneurship, and the pressure of wedding photography. 

Coffee Highlight: Bones Coffee Company – S’morey Time Blend

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Allie Parker of Sotheby’s International Realty to talk about building a thriving real estate business through relationships, systems, and genuinely caring for clients. Allie shares her journey from designing clothes for Belk to becoming one of the top-producing agents in the Triangle, closing over $50 million in volume last year while balancing motherhood and growing a team. 

The conversation dives into coaching, hiring the right people, creating systems that save time, and why referrals and client experience have been the foundation of her success. Ethan and Allie also discuss AI in real estate, crazy transaction stories, balancing family life with business growth, the evolution of Cary, and learning how to set boundaries in an industry that never fully turns off. 

Of course, they also review coffee from Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery in Cary, featuring the Tanzania blend. 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Anthony Medeiros to talk about his journey from growing up in a military family to building a career in real estate and entrepreneurship in the Triangle. Anthony shares how studying entrepreneurship at NC State shaped his mindset, why joining the right team changed his business, and how focusing on relationships over transactions has helped him grow as an agent.

The conversation dives into the importance of mentorship, staying organized in a fast-paced business, investing in real estate, and balancing work with the things you genuinely enjoy. Ethan and Anthony also talk about surfing, fitness, running a wellness studio, and building a lifestyle centered around community, flexibility, and doing meaningful work. 

Coffee Highlight: Oak City Coffee Roasters – La Mano De Dios 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Devin Curlings to talk about her journey from making just $12,000 in her first year in real estate to building a thriving business. Devin shares how taking risks, betting on herself, and joining the right team completely changed the trajectory of her career.

They dive into the realities of starting in new construction, overcoming self-doubt as a young agent, and the power of mentorship and team environments. Devin also breaks down her approach to social media, building authentic relationships, and why being a connector in your community can take your business to the next level. The conversation also touches on motherhood, work-life balance, and staying present while building a thriving career. 

Coffee Highlight: 321 Coffee – Elevate Blend 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Neda Navab, President of Compass, for a powerful conversation on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of real estate. Neda shares her inspiring story, from being raised by an immigrant mother who built a real estate career from the ground up, to becoming one of the most respected leaders in the industry.

They dive into what truly makes a great agent great, why hard work still wins, how Compass plans to stay focused on agents as it grows, and the massive role AI and technology will play in shaping the next generation of real estate professionals. Neda also opens up about parenting, staying present with family, personal growth, and the legacy she hopes to leave through leadership and energy. 

Coffee Highlight: Counter Culture Coffee – Apollo Blend (Ethiopia)

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Danielle Hurst to talk about her journey from PR and hospitality into real estate, and what her first year in the business has really looked like. Danielle shares how she built early momentum, leaned into her sphere, and learned what actually works, from open houses to social media and networking.

The conversation dives into team culture, consistency, mindset, and grit, along with balancing marriage, friendships, and building a career at the same time. Danielle also opens up about expectations vs. reality in year one and why playing the long game is key in real estate. 

Coffee Highlight: Lucky Tree Coffee – Honduras Single Origin

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Alley Buscemi to talk about her journey from New York City—working in fashion, production, and corporate sales—to building a fast-growing real estate business in Raleigh. Alley shares how she went from knowing no one in the area to scaling her business toward $40M+ in volume, all through personal branding, social media, and intentional relationship building.

They dive deep into what it really takes to succeed in real estate, including the importance of personality and internal drive, how to leverage social media the right way, and the strategy behind building a referral network across the country. Alley also breaks down her approach to branding, team building, and why doing an excellent job for fewer clients beats doing an average job for more.

Coffee Highlight: Five Star Coffee Roasters – Los Andes (Peru) Medium Roast 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Lisa Quin, Broker-in-Charge at Compass Cary, to talk about her journey from hotel management to building a long, successful career in real estate. Lisa shares how she sold 50 homes in her first year, navigated market downturns like the 2008 crash, and built a business centered around relationships, consistency, and strong ethics.

The conversation dives into what truly makes a great agent, the importance of systems and client follow-up, and how to build a business that lasts for decades—not just a few good years. Lisa also shares insights on leadership, being a Broker-in-Charge, and why real estate should fund your life—not consume it.

Coffee Highlight: Southport Coffee Company – Small Batch Blend  

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Mike Rice to talk about a lifetime spent around real estate. Mike shares how growing up in a real estate family eventually led him into the business, his early days in mortgages, and what it was like navigating the 2008 housing crash. The conversation dives into the realities of the industry, from starting and running a mortgage company to transitioning into real estate auctions during the foreclosure crisis. Mike also shares stories from teaching high school, coaching tennis, and ultimately finding his way back into real estate in North Carolina. Along the way, Ethan and Mike talk about fatherhood, business lessons, flipping houses, and building something that can impact future generations.

Coffee Highlight: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee – Muraho Morning

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Ryan McKinstrie to talk about his journey into real estate and what it takes to grow in the business. The conversation dives into building strong relationships with clients, navigating the ups and downs of the market, and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters. They also talk about fatherhood, the importance of family, and their shared love of golf, along with the balance of life, business, and personal growth.

Coffee Highlight: North Pole Coffee Roasting Company – Fairbanks Choice ☕