Shannon Watkins doesn’t just run a brokerage, with 23 years in the game, she runs an empire. James Clark joined her team after a full career in insurance, and together, they dish on time management, real trust, and why real estate is definitely not part-time work. And if you think your last project was a mess, wait until you hear about the lake house with a hex, a missing contractor, and a seller whose legal spouse was “out of state” for very suspicious reasons. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Key takeaways to listen for

• How Shannon’s team gives agents the chance to invest instead of just transact
• The one color on Shannon’s calendar that keeps her from burning out
• What drew James from corporate insurance into a thriving second career
• Why trust is the currency behind Shannon’s team dynamic
• Brutally honest advice Shannon gives new agents

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Opus.ai
• Zillow

About James Clark and Shannon WatkinsShannon is a 23-year real estate veteran based in Georgia. After surviving the 2008 crash and pivoting into landlording, she went on to build a powerhouse brokerage with in-house property management, an investment fund, a staging company, and a team-first culture. Shannon’s passion is growing business owners, not just agents, and she’s committed to helping every team member become an investor.

James is a Georgia-based agent and former insurance professional who transitioned into real estate after semi-retirement. Since joining Shannon’s team, James has closed over $12 million in volume in just three years and now serves as both a trusted agent and project manager for team flip properties. Known for his relationship-first approach and calm under pressure, James thrives on trust, teamwork, and client care.

Connect with James and Shannon

• Instagram: @debaldguy
• Facebook: James Clark
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: (678) 435-6285

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

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Real estate wasn’t Mindy DeLano’s first rodeo but it’s where she found her stride. With a background in healthcare and a heart for first-time buyers, she brings empathy, grit, and just enough grammar police energy to keep things entertaining. From porch-sittin’ veterans to social media shade, this one’s got all the feels. And just wait until you hear what went down with the chicken-loving buyers on the worst possible day!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Where real learning actually happens in real estate
• How Mindy built a thriving business by leaning into connection, not commission
• What classical dance can teach you about discipline and professionalism
• How following Leigh helped Mindy find her voice online (and grow her audience)
• The mindset shift that makes real estate meaningful|

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Bill Gallagher Real Estate CE Classes

About Mindy DeLanoMindy has called Charlotte home for more than 30 years, a journey that began with annual Labor Day visits and led her to earn a B.A. in English (minor in Sociology) at UNC Charlotte. After 15 years in healthcare, she transitioned to real estate, pairing deep market knowledge with a client-first mindset. Mindy holds the Accredited Buyer’s Representative designation, the At Home with Diversity certification, and the REALTORS® Commitment to Excellence endorsement, enabling her to serve Charlotte’s diverse buyers with skill and integrity. Away from work, she cheers for Clemson, the Charlotte 49ers, and the Panthers, explores the city’s craft beer scene, enjoys wine, and dotes on her dog, Salem.

Connect with Mindy

• Website: Mindy DeLano
• LinkedIn: Mindy DeLano
• Instagram: @homewithmindy
• Facebook: Home with Mindy
• YouTube: at home with Mindy
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 704.281.7660

Connect with Leigh

Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

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Ever wondered what 40 years of real estate wisdom sounds like? Leigh sits down with her real estate “mama,” Connie M. Corey, for a masterclass on how to build trust, keep clients for generations and survive everything from busted floor joists to government boards. Just when you think it’s all business, wait for the story that ends with matching pajamas, water slides, and one unforgettable Christmas tradition!

Key takeaways to listen for

• How a law enforcement career and a casual open house launched Connie’s path in real estate
• Why some tenants choose to rent for life and what great landlords understand
• How relationships built a 3-generation client base
• What Connie’s 8-year board service taught her about inspections
• The #1 tip Connie gives new REALTORS®

About Connie M. CoreyConnie M. Corey is a respected, award-winning real estate professional with decades of experience and deep roots in North Carolina’s real estate community. A consistent Multi-Million Dollar Producer, she is a proud member of the Greenville-Pitt Association of REALTORS®, North Carolina Association of REALTORS®, and National Association of REALTORS®.

Connect with Connie

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: Connie M. Corey
• Instagram: @conniecorey01
• Phone number: 252-341-9969

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

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Eric J. Barth used to crank out 300+ appraisals a year, then realized the real money (and the real fun) was in doing the deals himself. In this episode, he shares what most agents overlook, how to really use data to price homes, and why your comps might not be cutting it. This is a masterclass in blending numbers with neighborhood know-how you won’t want to miss!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why the “yes/no” drive-by system before 2008 was bound to collapse
• Certified vs. Licensed Appraisers: What actually matters when valuing property
• Reasons understanding micro-markets and municipal quirks can make or break a deal
• The secret weapon agents should be using from showing data to seller coaching
• How collaboration between appraisers and REALTORS® improves outcomes during a sale

Resources mentioned in this episode

• ShowingTime

About Eric J. BarthEric is a seasoned real estate professional with over two decades of experience in Northern Kentucky, including 13 years as a licensed appraiser and REALTOR® since 2001. He’s sold millions in real estate and appraised more than 4,000 homes across Greater Cincinnati, giving him a rare dual perspective on property value and market strategy. As a founding member and President of River Cities BNI, Eric leverages a strong network of trusted referral partners to better serve his clients. He’s also a dedicated father of three and an avid runner, cyclist, and hiker who has completed marathons in major U.S. cities and tackled portions of the Appalachian Trail.

Connect with Eric

• Website: Eric Barth
• LinkedIn: Eric Barth - Realtor - Coldwell Banker
• Instagram: @ericjbarth86
• X: @EricJBarth
• Facebook: Eric J Barth
• Phone Number: (859) 912-2104

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Brett Henry doesn’t just sell real estate, he’s redefining how the world does it. In this eye-opening conversation, Brett shares how his journey from a Canadian cop to a Dominican entrepreneur led him to build a global MLS system. If you’ve ever wondered what it would take to sell a home halfway across the world, this episode will change the way you see the business, so tune in!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why thinking globally opens new revenue streams for agents
• How anyone can monetize property marketing without a license
• What Brett’s global MLS makes possible across 180+ countries
• The surprising way international agents maintain commission integrity
• Brett’s wild career shift and the system that came out of it

About Brett HenryBrett is the President of Realtor DR. He focuses on providing clients with sound investment advice on specific areas, including investment appreciation, revenue streams, and exit strategy. At age 18, he began his real estate investment career and has gathered over 20 years of knowledge in real estate investing. His keen interest and professionalism have made him an authority in the industry.

His personal investment history consists of owning bars/restaurants and revenue properties. He has also owned a well-established bar/hotel on Cabarete Beach for over 10 years. Brett was born and raised in Canada and is very familiar with Canadian-Dominican laws which will be vital to Realtor DR. Brett also strongly believes in the Canadian work mentality to provide fast and effective care to all his clients. He served in law enforcement for 15+ YEARS.

Connect with Brett

• Website: Realtor DR
• Instagram: @brett_realtordr | @realtordrdotcom
• Whatsapp: +1 (849) 353-4899
• Email: [email protected]
• Mobile Number: +1(646) 461-7375

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors

"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program

Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

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What happens when a single mom takes on the real estate industry with zero backup and zero margin for error? You get Bethany Brokaw. Dial in as we chat about how she built a thriving business from nothing, trains agents to raise the bar, and still shows up with heart. Let’s just say... things get wild when frogs and lily pads show up under a house.

Key takeaways to listen for

• How a single mom with zero commission experience built a real estate empire
• The unexpected move that took Bethany from broke to boutique brokerage owner
• What Bethany does that earns her clients’ loyalty
• A rule that Bethany refuses to break and how it made her more successful
• What most new agents never learn and how it's hurting their clients

About Bethany BrokawBethany has been working in real estate since 2006 and enjoying every minute of it!  She is the current President of the Women’s Council of Realtors Michigan and the Broker/Owner of The Brokaw Group.

She is an active REALTOR®, Best of Zillow, consistently outsells 99% of agents in the U.S., and leads a team that sells more than 175 houses annually. She is extremely skilled in technology, business, negotiations, and marketing and never stops learning.

Connect with Bethany

• Website: The Brokaw Group
• Instagram: @bethanybrokaw | @the_brokaw_group
• Facebook: Bethany A Brokaw | Brokaw Group
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 810-600-2060

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Real estate investing gets real when you're managing Airbnbs, Section 8 rentals, and navigating unexpected drama along the way. Louisville broker Stacey Duvall shares how she built a thriving portfolio by treating tenants with respect, choosing the right properties, and never skimping on granite. She also breaks down why over-improving rentals can be your smartest move. And wait until you hear about the buyer who refused to close until a dead squirrel was removed from the street.

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why commercial zoning made Stacey’s Louisville Airbnbs unstoppable
• How she overcame fear and bought her first investment property
• Why upgraded properties bring better tenants and fewer headaches
• Stacey’s in-depth strategy that starts before a tour
• Why cash flow isn’t everything and what else investors should measure

Resources mentioned in this episode

• CASHFLOW® Classic—How Fast Can You Become A Millionaire?
• Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

About Stacey DuvallStacey possesses unique skills as a negotiator and communicator, two essential elements needed for a successful real estate transaction. She brings the ultimate level of knowledge and tenacity, making the home buying and selling process effortless for her clients. With her vast knowledge of the marketplace, she can provide top-quality service to buyers and sellers in all price ranges. Stacey is widely respected throughout the brokerage community and takes pride in offering the highest caliber of service available.

Connect with Stacey

• Website: Stacey Duvall Real Estate
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 502-905-7653

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Most real estate agents know houses, but land? That’s a whole different beast. In this episode, Cheryl Sain shares how she turned dirt into a thriving career. From scams and surprises to buried secrets, discover why land deals are risky, wild, and seriously profitable. And don’t miss her crazy story about a developer, a debris pit, and a seller who “forgot” what was under the soil. You won’t want to miss this one!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Why understanding raw land could open doors to surprising profits
• The red flags, scams, and survey traps that can tank a deal
• How Cheryl went from curious rookie to land-selling powerhouse with the help of a mentor
• The crucial documents every buyer should demand
• Why waiting too long can kill your deal before it even starts

Resources mentioned in this episode

• REALTORS® Land Institute
• NC REALTORS®
• How to Buy, Sell, and Profit with Land by Cheryl Sain
• 10 Things You Need To Know About Land by Cheryl Sain

🚨 FREE BOOK GIVEAWAY! 🚨Want to learn the secrets of land buying and selling? Cheryl Sain's books "10 Things You Need to Know About Land" and "How to Buy, Sell and Profit with Land" could be YOURS!

How to win:

1. Leave a comment on this episode
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About Cheryl SainBorn and raised in Waxhaw, North Carolina, Cheryl began her real estate career in 2001 following her time in the Air Force. She began her career in residential sales and quickly developed a passion for lots and land while also continuing to engage in home sales to stay connected to the residential market. Throughout her career, she encountered many residential agents/brokers, investors, and landowners who simply did not understand the land aspects of real estate.

Connect with Cheryl

• Website: Cheryl Sain
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 704-309-5067

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Boone may look like a cozy college town, but James Milner, CCIM reveals the real pressures behind its housing crisis and stalled commercial growth. From post-disaster market insights to high-stakes development challenges, James shares the factors reshaping what is possible in Western North Carolina real estate. Plus, don’t miss the things that drive James absolutely insane in today’s housing market!

Key takeaways to listen for

• Anti-development policies and outdated infrastructure in Boone, and what that means for attracting new business
• How Hurricane Helene affected Boone’s tourism season and local businesses
• Why existing restaurant spaces are hot commodities in a high-cost, low-inventory market
• Factors that influence James’ client-first approach to real estate
• The overlooked crisis keeping new industries out of Boone

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Boone Area Chamber of Commerce
• Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

About James Milner, CCIMJames is a commercial real estate broker, appraiser, and CCIM designee based in Boone, NC. A graduate of Appalachian State University, he founded Appalachian Commercial Real Estate in 2014 and has worked in the industry since 2000. James holds licenses in brokerage and appraisal and is the only full-time CCIM in his region.

He’s served in leadership roles with the CCIM Institute and on local boards, including the Boone Board of Adjustment and Western Youth Network. James lives in Boone with his wife, Catharine, and their two sons.

Connect with James

• Website: Appalachian Commercial Real Estate
• Instagram: @jamesrmilner | @appalachiancre
• LinkedIn: James Milner, CCIM | Appalachian Commercial Real Estate
• X: @AppalachianCRE
• Facebook: James Milner | Appalachian Commercial Real Estate
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: (828) 379-8750

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Kent Redding’s path from retail mogul to real estate powerhouse isn’t what you’d expect - especially when leadership, empathy, and branding collide. In this episode, Kent shares the surprising lessons he learned that still shape his business today. You’ll walk away rethinking what it really means to build trust, show up, and lead with heart. Plus, don’t miss the story of the open house that literally caused a traffic jam.

Key takeaways to listen for

• How Kent turned personal values into a business branding strategy that stuck
• What managing 400 retail employees teaches you about long-term client loyalty
• The marketing wisdom that still drives Kent’s success today
• Reasons self-awareness and empathy matter more than market trends
• Is volunteering with your local REALTOR® association a great career move?

About Kent ReddingKent is a top-producing REALTOR®, 2024 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, and a 20-year veteran with Berkshire Hathaway. Known for his client-first approach, Kent combines entrepreneurial grit with a deep commitment to the community. He’s a ten-time Platinum Top 50 award winner and holds designations including GRI, CRS, ABR, ePro, MRP, and CLHMS. Outside of real estate, Kent volunteers with groups like Community First! Village, Hungry Souls, and Red Oak Hope.

Connect with Kent

• Website: Kent Redding
• Facebook: Kent Redding | Kent Redding Team
• Instagram: @kentreddinggroup
• LinkedIn: Kent Redding
• Email: [email protected]
• Contact Number: (512) 797-5737

Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

🔗 https://answers.realestate/