Success Behind The Numbers

In Episode 74 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Dave Wenzel, whose journey from the streets of New York City to the world of real estate is filled with unforgettable stories, hard-earned lessons, and decades of service. 🎙️🚔

Before helping clients navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives, Dave spent years serving as an NYPD officer during one of the most challenging eras in New York City policing. From academy days and community policing assignments to drug investigations, search warrants, and life-or-death situations, his career placed him on the front lines of a rapidly changing city. Those experiences shaped his perspective on leadership, resilience, accountability, and the importance of staying calm under pressure.  

In this episode, Dave shares incredible stories from his years in law enforcement, reflecting on the moments that defined his career and the lessons that stayed with him long after retirement. He discusses the realities of policing in the 1990s, the friendships built through service, and the personal growth that comes from spending years making difficult decisions in high-stakes environments. These aren’t stories from a movie. They’re stories from real life.  

The conversation also explores Dave’s transition into real estate, why he chose to begin a second career after leaving law enforcement, and how many of the same skills that made him successful as a police officer continue to serve him today as a trusted real estate professional.

If you enjoy stories of resilience, service, and reinvention, this episode delivers a unique perspective from someone who has spent a lifetime helping people through some of life’s most important moments.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Dave Wenzel
2:00 – Police Academy Days
8:00 – Starting a Career in Law Enforcement
15:00 – Community Policing & Early Assignments
25:00 – Memorable Cases & Street Stories
40:00 – Lessons Learned on the Job
55:00 – Leadership, Service & Perspective
1:10:00 – Retirement & Life After Policing
1:15:00 – Transitioning Into Real Estate
1:25:00 – Building a Second Career
1:35:00 – Final Thoughts & Advice

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#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #NYPDStories #LawEnforcementLeadership #RealEstateCareer #CareerReinvention 

In Episode 73 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Scott Scolnick, Attorney at Scolnick Law, whose hands-on experience in both real estate and law has shaped a client-first approach centered around responsiveness, collaboration, and getting deals to the closing table. 🎙️🏙️

After spending years immersed in real estate transactions before law school, Scott entered the legal profession already understanding the pace, pressure, and complexity of the industry. Working alongside brokers, lenders, landlords, buyers, and sellers gave him a practical perspective that now shapes the way he approaches negotiations, client communication, and deal management.  

In this episode, Scott shares insight into the evolving legal landscape of New York real estate, including landlord-tenant laws, commercial leasing, contract negotiations, and the growing importance of collaboration between attorneys and brokers. He explains why responsiveness is critical, how small delays can derail transactions, and why the best professionals focus on protecting clients while still finding ways to move deals forward.

If you want insight into the legal and operational side of real estate, this conversation offers a practical look at what actually keeps deals moving in today’s market.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Scott Scolnick
2:30 – Early Life & Long Island Roots
6:10 – Discovering Real Estate
10:00 – From Paralegal to Attorney
14:45 – Balancing Work & Law School
19:20 – Building Scolnick Law
24:15 – NYC Housing & Landlord-Tenant Law
29:00 – Commercial Lease Negotiations
33:40 – Why Communication Closes Deals
38:15 – The Importance of the Walkthrough
43:00 – Relationships Between Attorneys & Brokers
48:10 – The Future of NYC Real Estate

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📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Scolnick Law:
📲 Instagram: @scolnicklaw
📧 Facebook: Scolnick Law | Kew Gardens NY
🌐 Website: www.scolnicklaw.com

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #CommercialRealEstate #NYCClosings #RealEstateTransactions #ClosingTable #BusinessRelationships

In Episode 72 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Joseph DeVito, Real Estate Attorney and Founder of the DeVito Team, whose career has been shaped by a willingness to evolve, take risks, and build beyond a single lane in real estate. 🎙️⚖️

Starting his career in law, Joseph quickly distinguished himself by producing at a high level early on, only to find himself pushed out for outperforming expectations. That moment became a turning point, leading him to launch his own practice, scale his involvement in real estate transactions, and eventually expand into multiple areas of the industry.  

In this episode, Joseph breaks down what he’s learned from handling hundreds of transactions, why understanding every part of the deal gives you an advantage, and how preparation and presentation directly impact results. He shares how he approaches listings, why details matter more than most agents realize, and how his background in law influences the way he advises clients throughout the process.

If you want a deeper look at how experience, discipline, and adaptability come together to build a sustainable business in real estate, this episode delivers a grounded and practical perspective.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Joseph DeVito
2:10 – Early Life & Education
5:45 – Entering Law & Early Career Challenges
10:15 – Starting His Own Practice
14:40 – Scaling Transactions & Closings
19:00 – Burnout & Shifting Focus
23:30 – Expanding Into Real Estate
28:10 – Listing Strategy & Preparation
32:45 – Understanding Buyer Psychology
37:20 – Market Trends & Cycles
42:00 – Advice for Growth

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📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Joseph DeVito & The DeVito Team:
📲 Instagram: @josephdevitoesq
📧 Facebook: The DeVito Team of Keller Williams Realty of Greater Nassau
🌐 Website: www.thedevitoteam.com

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #RealEstateBusiness #RealEstateAttorney #ListingStrategy #MarketInsights #BusinessBuilder 

In Episode 71 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Angelo Gionis, Senior Vice President of Contour Mortgage, whose decades in the mortgage industry have shaped a philosophy centered on relationships, consistency, and long-term thinking. 🎙️📊

Angelo’s journey started far from mortgages, working in stock brokerage at a young age before transitioning into his family’s paint and hardware business, where he learned the value of relationships and understanding people beyond the transaction. It wasn’t until he began referring clients for financing that he discovered the mortgage industry, a move that ultimately defined his career.  

In this episode, Angelo shares how his early experiences shaped his mindset around work ethic, why relationships matter more than transactions, and how taking initiative and seizing opportunities have opened doors throughout his career. He breaks down the importance of listening to clients, delivering a high level of service, and focusing on long-term value rather than short-term wins.

If you’re looking to build a business rooted in trust, consistency, and real connection, this episode offers insight from someone who has spent years building success through people, not just production.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Angelo Gionis
2:00 – Growing Up in Valley Stream
5:00 – From Stocks to Family Business
9:30 – Discovering the Mortgage Industry
13:45 – The Power of Work Ethic & Hustle
18:10 – Why Relationships Matter More Than Transactions
22:30 – The Importance of Listening to Clients
27:00 – Creating a High-Level Client Experience
31:20 – Seizing Opportunities in Business
36:10 – Building Long-Term Success
40:30 – Market Shifts & Industry Changes

Follow Rich:
📲 Instagram: @richamato_kwcore
📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Angelo Gionis:
📲 Instagram: @angelogionis
📧 Facebook: Angelo Gionis

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #MortgageLeadership #RealEstateFinance #RelationshipDriven #BusinessGrowth #SalesMindset 

In Episode 70 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Steven and Erica Gendel of The Gendel Group, Operating Partners at Keller Williams Livingston, to talk about what it really means to build a business and a life with intention.

Known for their calm leadership and clarity in how they operate, Steven and Erica have built a real estate business rooted in strong communication and long-term thinking. Their approach to team building and operations has created consistency, structure, and sustainable growth.

At the heart of it all is their son Joshua, a medically fragile child whose life, and the loss they experienced, continues to shape how they show up every day. They’ve chosen to live in a way that honors him, creating a life grounded in joy, humor, and connection. A powerful conversation on resilience, perspective, and what truly matters.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Steven & Erica Gendel
2:30 – Building a Business as Partners
6:15 – Playing to Strengths & Defining Roles
10:40 – The Systems Behind Their Growth
15:20 – The Value of an Operating Partner
19:45 – Leadership & Accountability
24:30 – Scaling with Structure
29:10 – Advice for Agents Building Teams
33:45 – What They Would Do Differently

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🌐 Website: www.gendelgroup.kw.com
📧 Facebook: Gendel Homeselling Team at Keller Williams Suburban Realty

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #KWLivingston #RealEstateLeadership #TeamStructure #OperatingPartner #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateTeams #LeadershipDevelopment #ScalableBusiness

In Episode 69 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Nazmus Sakib, a rising agent from Keller Williams Greater Nassau whose journey from humble beginnings to building real momentum in real estate is driven by discipline, consistency, and a relentless commitment to growth. 🎙️🔑

After moving to New York from Bangladesh at a young age, Naz developed a strong work ethic, shaped by adversity and a desire to create more opportunities. From graduating early to working multiple jobs while finding his path, his story reflects the mindset required to succeed in a competitive industry. He eventually found real estate and quickly realized that success isn’t about getting licensed. It’s about building structure, skills, and habits that compound over time.  

In this episode, he breaks down how he built his business from scratch: leveraging social media, conversations, and consistent follow-up to generate opportunities. He shares why staying top of mind is everything, how coaching and training accelerated his growth, and what it takes to deliver a client experience that naturally leads to referrals.

If you’re looking to understand what it really takes to break into real estate today, and more importantly, how to stay in the game and grow, this episode offers a practical and honest look at building a business from zero, one relationship at a time.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: From Bangladesh to New York
2:30 – Early Life & Work Ethic
6:45 – Getting Into Real Estate
10:15 – The Challenge of Starting With No Structure
14:20 – Finding Coaching & Training
18:10 – Building a Database From Scratch
22:30 – Social Media & Lead Generation
26:40 – First Deals & Gaining Momentum
31:10 – The Power of Follow-Up
36:20 – Delivering a Strong Client Experience
41:00 – Working With Investors vs Retail Clients

Follow Rich:
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📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Nazmus Sakib:
📲 Instagram: @realtywnaz
📧 Facebook: Nazmus Sakib Realtor | Garden City NY

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #KellerWilliams #RealEstateAgent #NewAgentSuccess #RealEstateCoaching #SalesMindset #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateTraining

In Episode 68 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Yan Gladkov, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Keller Williams NYC and member of The Rana Williams Team, whose journey into real estate is defined by adaptability, discipline, and a commitment to learning the business the right way. 🎙️📈

Originally from Uzbekistan, Tashkent, and raised through constant change, Yan developed a mindset centered around resilience and growth from an early age. After moving to New York City and navigating a completely new environment, he explored different career paths before finding his way into real estate, first as an investor, and eventually as a licensed agent. His path was anything but linear, but each step helped shape the foundation he relies on today.

In this episode, Yan shares the realities of what it takes to break into real estate, why learning should come before earning, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can accelerate your growth. He shares how being coachable, staying consistent, and putting yourself in the right environment can create opportunities that compound over time.

If you’re serious about building a real estate career and want to understand what it actually takes to get started and grow, this episode provides insight from someone who has built his foundation with intention and discipline.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Meet Yan Gladkov
2:15 – Growing Up in Uzbekistan, Tashkent & Moving to NYC
6:40 – Adapting to a New Environment
10:20 – Exploring Career Paths & Early Real Estate Experience
14:05 – Getting Licensed & Choosing the Right Brokerage
18:30 – The Importance of Training & Systems
22:10 – Joining a Top Real Estate Team
26:45 – The Power of Follow-Up & Consistency
30:20 – Advice for New Agents
34:00 – What Yan Would Tell His Younger Self

Follow Rich:
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Follow Yan Gladkov:
📲 Instagram: @yangladkov
📧 Facebook: Yan Gladkov at Keller Williams NYC | New York, NY

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #KWNYC #RanaWilliamsTeam #RealEstateCareers #AgentGrowth #Adaptability #WorkEthic #LearnBeforeYouEarn

In Episode 67 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Marianna Skelton, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Keller Williams Realty Elite, Massapequa, whose sharp eye for branding, tech-driven mindset, and commitment to education have helped her build a thriving business rooted in compassion and strategy. 🎙️📬

Marianna spent a decade in digital marketing before entering real estate, where she led campaigns, analyzed consumer behavior, and fine-tuned promotional strategy. That experience shaped her real estate approach - from how she connects with clients to how she builds and grows a memorable brand in an industry where trust and communication are everything.

In this episode, Marianna shares how she leveraged her marketing foundation to build her career, why owning a home as a real estate agent gave her an emotional advantage, and how continuous learning and collaboration have fueled her success at Keller Williams. Her story is a powerful reminder that authenticity, adaptability, and empathy are often the most valuable tools in your toolbox.

From masterminds and mentorship to marketing strategies that actually connect, this conversation is filled with practical takeaways and heartfelt perspectives.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Meet Marianna Skelton
2:00 – From Digital Marketing to Real Estate
6:30 – Lessons from 1-800-Flowers.com
9:00 – Buying Her First Home Changed Everything
9:10 – What Marketing Teaches You About Real Estate
13:45 – Becoming a Homeowner Changed Everything
17:20 – The Power of Education, Training & Masterminds
22:00 – What Sets The Skelton Team Apart
25:15 – Advice to Agents Ready to Scale
29:30 – What Marianna Would Tell Her Younger Self

Follow Rich:
📲 Instagram: @richamato_kwcore
📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Marianna:
📲 Instagram: @heartandsoldmarianna
📧 Facebook: Marianna Skelton Homes | Massapequa NY
🌐 Website: www.mariannaskelton.kw.com

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #WomenInRealEstate #MarketingToRealEstate #RealEstateLeadership #KWPointsNorth #BrandStrategy #ClientConnection #GrowthMindset

In Episode 66 of Success Behind The Numbers, we sit down with Reginald Louissaint, international real estate salesperson with Keller Williams France Efficience and Keller Williams New York City, whose global perspective and cross-border expertise have helped clients navigate real estate opportunities across multiple countries. 🎙️🌍

Originally from New York, Reginald expanded his career internationally, earning a Master’s Degree in European Real Estate and building a business that spans both the U.S. and Europe. From France to Spain, Malaysia to Portugal, he has guided buyers through the complexities of purchasing property abroad, developing a deep understanding of how different markets operate and what it takes to succeed within them.

In this episode, Reginald shares how he built a truly international real estate career, the key differences between U.S. and European markets, and why adaptability, education, and cultural awareness are essential when working across borders. His experience highlights how thinking beyond one market can open doors to new opportunities, both for agents and the clients they serve.

If you’ve ever considered expanding your business internationally or want to better understand how global real estate works, this episode offers a unique perspective from someone actively operating in multiple markets.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Meet Reginald Louissaint
1:55 – From New York to International Real Estate
5:10 – Earning a Master’s in European Real Estate
8:45 – Understanding Global Market Differences
12:30 – Working With Buyers Across Multiple Countries
17:20 – Challenges of Cross-Border Transactions
21:50 – Expanding Your Business Internationally
27:10 – What Reginald Would Tell His Younger Self

Follow Rich:
📲 Instagram: @richamato_kwcore
📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow Reginald Louissaint:
📲 Instagram: @nyc_france_realestate
📧 Facebook: Reginald Louissaint
🌐 Website: www.connecteurproperties.com

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #RichAmato #GlobalRealEstate #InternationalAgent #KWFrance #KWNYC #CrossBorderBusiness #RealEstateGrowth #GlobalMarkets #AgentExpansion

In Episode 65 of Success Behind The Numbers, we step inside KW Core, one of the most dynamic real estate environments, to explore what actually goes into building top-producing agents. 🎙️🏆

This conversation brings together multiple perspectives from within the KW Core family, offering a rare look at the culture, standards, and expectations that shape consistent success in real estate. From early-stage growth to long-term scalability, the discussion highlights what separates top producers who continuously perform at a high level from the rest.

In this episode, we break down the role of accountability, leadership, and environment in agent development at KW Core. You’ll hear how the right systems, support, and mindset can accelerate growth, why proximity to the right people matters more than most realize, and how top producers are built through discipline, not luck.

If you’re looking to understand what it really takes to grow in real estate and surround yourself with the right structure to succeed, this episode offers a clear and honest look inside KW Core and how its agents continue to produce results at a high level.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Inside KW Core
2:15 – What Separates Top Producers 
5:40 – The Role of Environment in Agent Growth
9:10 – Systems, Structure, and Daily Discipline
13:25 – Leadership and Accountability at KW Core
17:50 – Building Consistency in a Competitive Market
22:30 – Lessons From High-Level Collaboration
27:10 – Final Takeaways on Growth and Longevity

Follow Rich:
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📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core

Follow KW Core:
📲 Instagram: @kwcore_
📧 Facebook: KW CORE

#SuccessBehindTheNumbers #KWCore #TopProducers #RealEstateGrowth #AgentDevelopment #RealEstateLeadership #HighPerformance #RealEstateSystems #GrowthStrategy