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

Michael Thornton shares his transition from corporate America to leading a top real estate team. Michael discusses the importance of resilience, professionalism, and systematic client service in building a trusted brand and sustaining steady business growth. Next, Michael highlights how structured team collaboration enables work-life balance and growth opportunities for all team members. Michael also reveals how leveraging social media can boost visibility and attract clients in today’s competitive market. Last, Michael talks about the importance of meaningful client relationships, building a strong team, and adapting to new technologies in real estate.

Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! 

Michael Thornton can be reached at (630) 532-9246 and [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Jay Cannone talks about how he built his business in real estate. Jay discusses the evolution of his business from door-knocking and cold calling to the power of consistent marketing and authentic client relationships. Jay also discusses how family influence and personal challenges have shaped both his professional path and his outlook on life. Jay highlights his dedication to community involvement and the importance he places on giving back.

Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! 

Jay Cannone can be reached at 203.209.2529 and [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In this episode Real Estate Video Coach Kim Rittberg talks about what content we should be making as soon as the new year comes around and where to start with video in 2026. Kim discusses the importance of the “about me” video and talks about her ABC method explaining what it stands for. At the end Kim shares a great bonus tip.

Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! 

Please enroll for Kim’s Real Estate Video Kickstart and 10-Day Video Challenge here.

Sign up for Kim’s “5 Videos Every Real Estate Agent Must Make to Sell More Homes“.

Follow Kim on Instagram.

Subscribe to Kim on YouTube.

Listen to Kim’s 5 minute mini-master classes on marketing every Friday on The Exit Interview with Kim Rittberg podcast.

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Bari Mill discusses her journey from collegiate athlete and educator to real estate success, highlighting the key advice and lessons that shaped her career. Bari emphasizes the importance of resilience, teamwork, and being coachable, drawing on her athletic background to explain how discipline and time management have anchored her business approach. Bari also shares her strategies for building a client base, including leveraging referrals and finding a professional niche. Last, Bari shares insights on mindset, motivation, and the importance of gratitude in both business and life.

Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! 

Bari Mill can be reached at (847) 414-9944 and [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Karina Chavez shares her journey from working with her father to transforming motels into affordable housing in Albuquerque. Karina shares how her commitment to honesty, client care, and local involvement has built a thriving, referral-based business. Karina also offers practical advice for agents about adapting to change and building authentic relationships.

Check out D.J.’s Listing Reviewer here.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Karina Chavez can be reached at 505-220-7781 and [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

In this episode D.J. Paris presents the tool he built to help agents write listing descriptions. DJ explains how he built this tool and what this tool does. We’d love the feedback on your experience using this tool.

Check out this Listing Reviewer here.

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, Paul reframes the end of the year as separation season—the moment high performers pull away from their competition and the past version of themselves. Discover why most people quietly take their foot off the gas, the hidden excuses that sabotage momentum, and how a small shift in discipline, intention, and vision right now can create the breakthrough that defines your next year.

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.

Book a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call here.

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Garrett Maroon talks about how he built a successful real estate career through persistence, referrals, and staying true to his chosen approach despite industry pressure. Garrett discusses the importance of authenticity in business emphasizing that being authentic attracts the right clients, supports better relationships, and leads to more fulfillment in work and life. Next, Garrett how incorporating his Christian faith into his work helped form meaningful connections and a unique brand identity. Garrett also talked about how forming and participating in supportive groups around shared interests or backgrounds is the key to professional growth and personal support. Last, Garrett talks about achieving work-life balance and redefining success.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Garrett Maroon can be reached at [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Jill Preschel talks about her career journey and mentorship focusing on transition between roles, and emphasis on coaching, mentorship, and being coachable. Jill shares strategies and tips for real estate agents on building connections with developers, and showing expertise. Jill also discusses changing buyer expectations, emphasizing the importance of property fundamentals. Last, Jill talks about leveraging behavioral insights, simplifying data for clients, and employing AI in your business.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Jill Preschel can be reached at (908) 415-5418 and [email protected].

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.

Courtney Poulos talks about her background and journey, starting with her early education to how she transitioned into real estate and built her business. Courtney emphasizes the importance of client experience and high-quality service. Next Courtney discusses various AI tools, focusing on both their impact and limitations in real estate processes. Courtney also talks about industry policies, listing practices & market structure. Last, Courtney discusses industry trends and challenges and the future direction of real estate.

If you’d prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube!

Courtney Poulos can be reached at [email protected]. 

This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.