Coffee & Closings

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jason Kogok, founder of Investor’s Wealth Education and author of Plug the Holes, Fill the Barrel. We talk about how Jason got his start in real estate, his teaching journey at NC State and Wake Tech, and his deep dive into investing strategies that build lasting wealth. Jason also opens up about the process of writing his book, balancing life as a father, and the hobbies that keep him grounded outside of work. And of course, we fuel the conversation with a cup of Peak City Coffee’s Highland Blend. 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Angie Thomas of Grow Local Realty. Angie shares her journey into real estate, how she quickly became a top-producing agent, and why she thrives as a solo agent rather than building a team. We talk about the realities of flipping houses, balancing business with fitness, and the unique mindset that drives her success.

We also dive into our favorite coffees and spotlight this week’s brew: Counter Culture’s “Forty-Six”

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Davante Falls, Senior Marketing Advisor for Compass in the Triangle. Davante shares how he got his start in marketing, the strategies agents can use to elevate their business, and how discipline in exercise and diet has played a role in his personal and professional journey. We also dive into his inspiring fight with Multiple Sclerosis, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how perseverance shapes success.

Of course, we highlight our featured coffee of the week: Full Bloom Coffee’s “Busy Bee” Breakfast Blend

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Megan Beekman dives into the story behind Red Bench Realty and its many branches. We cover the entrepreneurial grind — from Airbnbs and flips to what it really means to be a great REALTOR®. Megan shares insights on personal branding, picking the right business name, and the power of social media. We also chat about workouts, caffeine, and building a lifestyle that fuels your business. Featured brew: Black & White Coffee – The Classic.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Brandon Yopp to explore his journey into real estate and what it really takes to stand out as a listing agent. They dive into the power of relationships, intentional client care, and building a business that supports, not controls, your lifestyle. Along the way, they chat hobbies, bourbons, and the importance of staying authentic in the industry. Featured brew of the day: Larry’s Coffee - Cowboy Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Steve Gunter of The Gunter Group at Compass. We dive into his journey from serving as a police officer to becoming a full-time real estate professional, his experience playing cornerback at Indiana University, and how those lessons shaped his mindset in life and business. Steve shares his insights on building meaningful relationships, navigating some of North Carolina's biggest land acquisitions, and his unique role in Compass’ Sports & Entertainment division. Plus, we highlight Sir Walter Coffee and their Downtown Single roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Brandy Nemergut to talk about her journey from starting in real estate in California to building a thriving business from scratch here in North Carolina. Brandy shares how she leveraged conversations and genuine relationship-building to grow her network, how to confidently use social media as a REALTOR®, and why dialing in your CRM (and using AI effectively) can be a game-changer for your business.

This week, we’re highlighting The Porchlight Medium Roast from the Classic Collection by Pure Intentions Coffee Roasters out of Charlotte, NC.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Kailey Norman, Sales Manager of the Southeast Regional Leadership Team at Compass. We dive into market insights, why knowledge is power for every agent, and what new agents should be doing right now to set themselves up for success. Kailey also shares what it’s really like to take on a leadership role in a real estate office, offering perspective on growth, mentorship, and team building. Plus, we spotlight 5 Star Coffee Roasters in Holly Springs, NC, and their standout Chayote roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with powerhouse broker Liz Brown to unpack her wild journey from real estate rookie to team leader, independent brokerage owner, and now Compass Principal with a big brand. They talk entrepreneurship, client relationship, building something from scratch, and balancing it all with parenthood. Liz shares the highs, the hustle, and what it really takes to be a standout agent in today’s market. Plus, they sip on some bold brews from Counter Culture while keeping it real about what the grind actually looks like. 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Davis Holt shares how early failures fueled his rise as a successful real estate entrepreneur. We dive into the power of persistence, the mindset behind building a business, and how he balances being a present father with the hustle of real estate. Plus, we kick things off with a pour-over from Cultivate Coffee, featuring their Better Together roast — a perfect reminder that success is rarely a solo journey.