The Elevate and Execute Podcast

The Elevate and Execute Podcast

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The Elevate and Execute Podcast episodes

  • The hidden emotions sabotaging entrepreneurs with Curtis Morley

    What if some of the emotions you consider healthy are actually keeping you disconnected, stuck and unable to grow?

    In this episode of Elevate & Execute, the team sits down with Curtis Morley, a five-time entrepreneur, Wall Street Journal bestselling author, speaker, educator, patent holder and business coach.

    Curtis shares how growing up in a small Utah town shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, beginning with the moment an 11-year-old Curtis discovered what an entrepreneur was while watching Saturday morning television.

    He also reflects on serving a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His journey took him from Japan to the campus of Brigham Young University and eventually Minnesota, where unexpected experiences strengthened his faith and changed his understanding of purpose.

    Curtis later built multiple companies, created technology for the music industry and helped grow an education company to eight figures. Along the way, he experienced failed ventures, costly marketing campaigns, difficult partnerships and the challenge of learning when to trust others.

    The conversation becomes deeply personal as Curtis discusses divorce, depression and the emotional pain that led him to study what he calls “counterfeit emotions.”

    He explains the difference between pain and misery, guilt and shame and being nice versus being genuinely kind. According to Curtis, healthy emotions can move us toward growth and connection, while their counterfeits often create cycles of avoidance, blame and disconnection.

    Curtis also shares lessons from his books, The Entrepreneur’s Paradox and The Timeline of Business, including why successful entrepreneurs must eventually stop doing everything themselves, learn to delegate and invest in people.

    In this episode:

    • Growing up in a small Utah town
    • Discovering entrepreneurship at 11 years old
    • Serving a two-year mission in Japan, Utah and Minnesota
    • The role faith has played throughout Curtis’ life
    • Building and learning from multiple businesses
    • Creating technology for the music industry
    • The danger of trusting business partners without proper due diligence
    • Turning an unsuccessful direct-mail campaign into a valuable lesson
    • Why staying small can be its own form of risk
    • Growing an education company to eight figures
    • Navigating divorce, depression and emotional pain
    • The difference between pain and misery
    • Why Curtis believes misery is built on blame and shame
    • The difference between guilt and shame
    • Why being nice is not the same as being kind
    • Turning conflict into an opportunity for connection
    • Why entrepreneurs struggle to delegate
    • Investing in people instead of doing everything yourself
    • Common mistakes entrepreneurs make as their businesses grow
    • The ideas behind The Entrepreneur’s Paradox
    • Curtis’ work surrounding counterfeit emotions

    Growth often requires more than a new business strategy. It requires confronting the emotions, habits and fears that keep us from changing.

    Subscribe to Elevate & Execute for more conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, real estate, faith and personal growth.

    #ElevateAndExecute #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #BusinessPodcast #MentalHealth

    1 hr 17 min
  • From Marine and barber to 62 rental doors with David Sotelo

    What does it take to go from starting over to building a real estate portfolio, construction company and a completely different life?

    In this episode of Elevate and Execute, Kyle Fernandez and Brian Preston sit down with investor and entrepreneur David Sotelo to talk about his unconventional path from the Marine Corps to barbering, wholesaling real estate and eventually building a growing portfolio of rental properties.

    David spent eight years in the Marines, including four years living in Japan. After leaving the military, he became a barber in San Diego and eventually had four barbers working for him. When COVID shut down much of California, David made another major change and moved to the Midwest to pursue real estate.

    His first wholesale deal came from Facebook Marketplace. He put a property in Indianapolis under contract without ever seeing it in person and made $5,000. He went on to complete around 25 wholesale deals before shifting his focus toward owning real estate for the long term.

    Today, David and his wife own 62 rental doors and operate a construction company with more than 20 employees. He shares how they built the company through trial and error, why they stopped doing work for outside customers and how owning their construction operation allows them to focus on their own flips, rentals and rehabs.

    David also breaks down one of his best BRRRR deals, how he has built access to more than $1 million in private money and why relationships with private lenders have become an important part of his growth.

    The conversation also gets personal as David talks about losing his brother to suicide, losing fellow Marines during and after their service, struggling with alcohol and eventually getting sober. He shares how his wife supported him through that journey and how reconnecting with his faith has changed his life.

    In this episode:

    • David’s eight years in the Marine Corps
    • Living and training in Japan
    • Going from Marine to professional barber
    • Why COVID pushed him toward real estate
    • Making $5,000 on his first wholesale deal
    • The problems with traditional wholesaling
    • Why transparency matters when putting properties under contract
    • Building a portfolio of 62 rental doors
    • Starting a construction company through trial and error
    • Growing a construction team to more than 20 employees
    • Why David stopped taking outside contracting jobs
    • How the BRRRR strategy allows investors to recycle capital
    • Private money vs. hard money
    • Building access to more than $1 million in private capital
    • Flipping a Ballwin home for $75,000 over asking
    • Investing in St. Louis City
    • Dealing with theft, squatters and distressed properties
    • Managing multiple renovation projects at once
    • Why David believes in hiring carefully and firing quickly
    • Being judged because of his tattoos
    • Losing his brother and fellow Marines
    • David’s journey to sobriety
    • Rebuilding his relationship with God
    • Working alongside his wife
    • His goal of eventually owning 500 rental doors
    • Building a life that gives him more time with his family

    David’s story is a reminder that your first career does not have to be your last. From the Marines to cutting hair to real estate investing, each chapter gave him skills that helped build the next one.

    Subscribe to Elevate and Execute for more conversations about real estate, entrepreneurship, investing, business, faith and building a better life.

    #ElevateAndExecute #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #RentalProperties #StLouisRealEstate #BRRRR

    1 hr 20 min
  • Shawn Gwaltney — From high school dropout to entrepreneur, investor and mentor
    ShawnElevate and Execute PodcastEpisode: Shawn Gwaltney — From high school dropout to entrepreneur, investor and mentorEpisode description

    What does it really take to build a successful life when you don't follow the traditional path?

    In this episode of Elevate and Execute, Kyle Fernandez and Brian Preston sit down with entrepreneur, investor, and mentor Shawn Gwaltney for one of the most transparent conversations yet. Shawn shares his incredible journey from dropping out of high school and rebelling against authority to building multiple successful businesses, investing in real estate, mentoring entrepreneurs, and living a purpose-driven life rooted in faith.

    The conversation covers entrepreneurship, real estate investing, personal discipline, mentorship, business failures, leadership, and why getting comfortable being uncomfortable is the key to long-term success.

    Whether you're building a business, investing in real estate, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and honest lessons learned through decades of experience.

    What you'll learn
    • Why traditional school isn't the only path to success
    • How Shawn built multiple businesses after dropping out of high school
    • The lessons learned from failed companies and difficult pivots
    • Why every entrepreneur needs to embrace discomfort
    • How Shawn built a successful recognition awards company
    • Real estate investing strategies for beginners
    • The biggest mistakes new investors make
    • Why discipline always beats motivation
    • How mentorship accelerates success
    • The role faith has played throughout Shawn's entrepreneurial journey

    Topics coveredHigh school dropout to entrepreneur

    Shawn shares the story of leaving high school, struggling with authority, and discovering that entrepreneurship fit his personality far better than traditional education ever could.

    Learning through failure

    From flipping vehicles to starting construction companies and opening a used car dealership, Shawn explains how every failed venture became valuable education for the next opportunity.

    Building a business through innovation

    Shawn discusses transforming his family's promotional products company into a premium recognition brand by eliminating outdated systems, streamlining operations, and focusing on products that truly impact company culture.

    Real estate investing

    The conversation dives deep into buying rental properties, overcoming the fear of investing, cash flow, appreciation, common beginner mistakes, and why long-term thinking wins in real estate.

    Why discipline beats motivation

    Shawn explains why motivation is temporary while discipline creates lasting success, comparing entrepreneurship to fitness and emphasizing the importance of consistent daily habits.

    Mentorship and personal growth

    Shawn shares how his Mastery Mentorship program helps entrepreneurs create structure, accountability, and systems that produce long-term success instead of short bursts of motivation.

    Faith through difficult seasons

    Shawn opens up about rediscovering his faith during the 2008 financial crisis and how putting God first transformed both his personal life and business philosophy.

    Memorable quotes"You never know what may spawn from one opportunity.""People propel prosperity.""Get comfortable being uncomfortable.""Motivation will always take you back to average. Discipline sustains success.""No risk, no reward.""The greatest opportunity to build wealth while you sleep is real estate."Memorable moments
    • Shawn explains why dropping out of high school ultimately led him toward entrepreneurship.
    • The story of turning one vinyl siding project into an entire construction company.
    • A behind-the-scenes look at transforming a struggling manufacturing business into a thriving recognition company.
    • Kyle and Brian debate whether new investors should buy one rental property or multiple properties.
    • Shawn shares practical advice for anyone wanting to start investing in real estate.
    • An honest discussion about the difference between motivation and discipline.
    • Shawn opens up about how the 2008 recession strengthened both his business mindset and his faith.
    • Book recommendations for entrepreneurs looking to grow personally and professionally.

    Books mentioned
    • Buy Back Your Time — Dan Martell
    • The Gap and The Gain — Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy
    • Who Not How — Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy
    • The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life — Boyd Varty

    Connect with Shawn Gwaltney

    Follow Shawn for conversations on entrepreneurship, investing, leadership, faith, and personal growth.

    • Podcast: Conversations Left Behind
    • Instagram: @ShawnGwaltney
    • Facebook: Shawn Gwaltney

    1 hr
  • Why the best salespeople never stop prospecting with Larry Siebert
    Elevate and Execute — Episode: Why the best salespeople never stop prospecting with Larry Siebert

    Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston

    Guest: Larry Siebert

    Episode Summary

    What separates top salespeople from everyone else?

    This week, Kyle and Brian sit down with Larry Siebert, a master salesperson who has built multiple six-figure careers by following one simple principle: never stop prospecting.

    Larry shares his daily sales routine, why he still spends hours every day dialing for dollars, and how consistent follow-up has been the biggest contributor to his success. The conversation expands beyond sales into networking, relationship building, career advice, college, parenting, and why doing what you say you're going to do is one of the most valuable traits in business.

    Whether you're in real estate, sales, entrepreneurship, or simply looking to improve your business, this episode is packed with practical advice that anyone can apply. The episode wraps up with one of the funniest moments in Elevate and Execute history as Larry shows off his unbelievable ability to know the lyrics to just about every song ever made.

    What You'll Learn
    • Why the best salespeople prospect every single day
    • How consistent follow-up creates long-term business growth
    • The importance of networking and building genuine relationships
    • Why "no" is actually a win in sales
    • How to stay top of mind with prospects without becoming annoying
    • The value of under-promising and over-delivering
    • Why integrity is still one of the biggest competitive advantages in business
    • Larry's thoughts on college versus trades and real-world experience
    • Why relationships often create more opportunities than resumes

    Key Topics DiscussedDialing for dollars still works

    Larry explains why he dedicates a significant portion of every workday to prospecting. His system is simple, repeatable, and built around staying in front of prospects consistently instead of waiting for opportunities to appear.

    The power of follow-up

    One of Larry's biggest secrets is staying organized. Every conversation ends with a next step, and every prospect receives another touchpoint before they are ready to make a buying decision.

    Networking that actually works

    Rather than collecting business cards, Larry focuses on building authentic friendships with customers. He shares why dinners, sporting events, golf outings, and simply getting to know people personally creates stronger business relationships than any sales pitch.

    Sales is about trust

    The conversation covers why honesty wins in the long run, why admitting mistakes builds credibility, and why doing exactly what you say you're going to do separates great salespeople from average ones.

    Is college still worth it?

    Kyle, Brian, and Larry discuss the changing value of higher education, alternatives like trades and apprenticeships, and why many young people may benefit more from gaining real-world experience than accumulating student debt.

    The railroad industry

    Larry gives listeners a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the railcar leasing industry, explaining how railcars are financed, leased, maintained, and why nearly every product we use has likely spent time traveling by rail.

    Speaker Mike returns

    The episode finishes with one of the funniest moments yet as Larry demonstrates his legendary ability to sing nearly every lyric from virtually any song put in front of him.

    Memorable Quotes"If you swing the bat enough, you're going to get hits.""People like doing business with people they actually like.""If somebody tells you to call them in November, call them in October.""If you wake up chasing money, you'll never catch it. If you wake up doing what you love, the money follows.""Do what you say you're going to do."Memorable Moments
    • Larry explains his daily prospecting routine that has fueled multiple successful sales careers.
    • A fascinating look inside the billion-dollar railcar leasing industry.
    • A discussion about why relationships matter more than sales pitches.
    • The hosts debate whether college is still the right investment for today's young adults.
    • Larry shares advice for raising hardworking kids in today's world.
    • "Speaker Mike" makes its return as Larry effortlessly sings lyrics from multiple songs, proving why he's become legendary among his friends.

    Connect with Elevate and Execute

    If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Elevate and Execute, leave a review, and share it with someone looking to grow their business, improve their sales skills, or build stronger relationships.

    New episodes every week covering business, entrepreneurship, real estate, investing, leadership, and the mindset required to elevate every area of your life.

    1 hr
  • Mental Health, Mindset, Biohacking, and Becoming Your Best
    Elevate and Execute — Episode: Mental Health, Mindset, Biohacking, and Becoming Your Best

    Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston

    Guest: Chris Vandehey, Connect Video

    Episode Summary

    Chris Vandehey returns for Part 2 of his conversation with Kyle and Brian, and the discussion quickly turns into one of the most personal episodes of Elevate and Execute.

    The group dives into mental health, therapy, DISC personalities, ADHD, testosterone, nutrition, supplements, and the importance of taking ownership of your physical and mental well-being. Chris opens up about his recent struggles with depression after the end of a relationship, why he decided to begin therapy, and how understanding yourself is often the first step toward becoming a better entrepreneur, friend, and leader.

    Along the way, the conversation explores everything from intermittent fasting and TRT to psychedelics, mindset, and why investing in your health may be one of the best business decisions you can make.

    What You'll Learn
    • What it means to be an empath and how emotional awareness affects leadership
    • How DISC personality profiles can improve relationships, communication, and business
    • Why ADHD can be both a challenge and a superpower for entrepreneurs
    • The role therapy can play in improving mental health and emotional resilience
    • How TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) can impact energy, mood, and overall well-being
    • Why blood work and preventative healthcare matter as you get older
    • The benefits of consistent hydration, nutrition, and vitamin supplementation
    • The difference between simply surviving and intentionally investing in your health
    • Why mindset is something that requires constant maintenance—not a one-time achievement

    Key Topics DiscussedUnderstanding empathy and emotional intelligence

    Chris explains what it means to be an empath and how being highly aware of other people's emotions has influenced his friendships, leadership style, and business relationships.

    DISC personalities and knowing yourself

    The group revisits DISC personality profiles and discusses how understanding personality types can improve hiring, coaching, leadership, and communication.

    Mental health isn't weakness

    Chris shares his decision to begin therapy after recognizing symptoms of depression and explains why asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

    Brian and Kyle discuss why every successful person should consider having a business coach, health coach, or therapist to help navigate life's challenges.

    ADHD and finding your flow

    The conversation explores how ADHD affects focus, productivity, and entrepreneurship, along with techniques that help create "flow state" and stay productive.

    TRT, health optimization, and preventative care

    Kyle and Brian discuss testosterone replacement therapy, routine blood work, vitamins, hydration, sleep tracking, and why investing in your health pays dividends in every other area of life.

    Nutrition and discipline

    From intermittent fasting to cutting out fast food, the hosts discuss how discipline around nutrition impacts energy, focus, and long-term success.

    Psychedelics and mental health research

    The conversation includes an open discussion about emerging research surrounding psychedelics, PTSD, depression, and personal experiences. The hosts emphasize the growing scientific interest in these treatments while sharing their own perspectives and experiences.

    Notable Quotes"Nothing changes if nothing changes.""Your attitude is the only thing you truly have control over.""If your mental health isn't where it needs to be, nothing else matters.""Investing in your health is investing in your business.""Every successful person has coaches. Why shouldn't your mental health have one too?"Memorable Moments
    • Chris explains what being an empath means and how it affects his daily life.
    • The hosts compare their DISC personality types and how they've evolved over time.
    • A candid conversation about therapy, depression, and removing the stigma around seeking help.
    • Kyle shares his experience with TRT and how it improved his energy and overall well-being.
    • Brian discusses intermittent fasting and how discipline strengthens mindset.
    • Chris shares the emotional impact of losing both of his parents at a young age and how those experiences shaped him.
    • The episode closes with an encouraging reminder that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

    Subscribe & Review

    If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Elevate and Execute, leave us a review, and share it with someone who values personal growth, entrepreneurship, and becoming the best version of themselves.

    New episodes every week covering real estate, business, health, leadership, mindset, and life.
    34 min
  • From behind the camera to in front of the mic: Chris Vandehey's journey through business, fitness, and video marketing
    From behind the camera to in front of the mic: Chris Vandehey's journey through business, fitness, and video marketing

    What happens when the guy behind the camera becomes the guest?

    In this episode of Elevate & Execute, Brian Preston and Kyle Fernandez sit down with Chris Vandehey, co-founder of Connect Video and the person responsible for filming and producing the podcast. Chris shares his personal fitness transformation, lessons learned from a 15-year relationship, the realities of building a video production company, and why consistent content creation is one of the most powerful marketing tools available today.

    The conversation explores everything from health and discipline to social media strategy, entrepreneurship, personal development, and the mindset shifts required to continue growing personally and professionally.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    • How Chris lost weight and transformed his health after turning 36
    • Why consistency beats perfection in fitness and content creation
    • The importance of building a customer avatar in business
    • Why most businesses struggle with social media consistency
    • How podcast-style content became one of Connect Video's most successful services
    • The power of staying top of mind with your audience
    • Lessons from working with entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, and business owners
    • Stories from filming industry leaders like Tony Robbins and Gary Vaynerchuk
    • How DISC personality profiles can improve business and relationships
    • Why mindset and environment have such a significant impact on success

    Key takeawaysNothing changes if nothing changes

    After reaching his highest weight and feeling stuck, Chris decided it was time for a change. By cutting out fast food, reducing alcohol, tracking nutrition, and creating consistent habits, he began transforming both his health and mindset.

    Consistency wins on social media

    One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is posting inconsistently. Chris explains why showing up regularly matters more than chasing viral content and how staying visible helps businesses remain top of mind when customers are ready to buy.

    Your ideal clients aren't everyone

    Chris shares how building a customer avatar helped him identify the types of people and businesses he enjoys serving most. Understanding who you want to work with can dramatically improve your business, relationships, and overall satisfaction.

    The easiest way to create content

    The discussion dives into how simple conversations can become months of content. What started as a strategy for Elevate & Execute eventually evolved into Connect Video's "Faux Pod" model, helping businesses create authentic content without the pressure of scripting every video.

    Mindset is a daily practice

    The episode wraps up with a conversation about attitude, personal growth, and the importance of surrounding yourself with positive influences. The group discusses how mindset affects every area of life, from relationships and business to health and happiness.

    Memorable moments
    • Chris shares the story of losing weight after a major life transition
    • Why MyFitnessPal has been part of his routine for nearly 20 years
    • The surprising way Connect Video developed its podcast content model
    • Stories from filming Tony Robbins, Gary Vaynerchuk, Richard Branson, and other business leaders
    • Gary Vee's unforgettable interaction during a photo opportunity
    • The importance of staying top of mind in business
    • Brian and Chris compare DISC personality profiles and leadership styles
    • A conversation about friendship, mentorship, and personal growth

    About Chris Vandehey

    Chris Vandehey is the co-founder of Connect Video, a video marketing company that helps businesses simplify content creation and stay consistent on social media. Through services like Video Day, podcast production, and content strategy, Connect Video helps entrepreneurs and organizations build trust, increase visibility, and grow their businesses through video.

    Connect with Chris

    Learn more about Connect Video and video marketing strategies that help businesses attract and retain customers through authentic content.

    Quotes from the episode"Nothing changes if nothing changes.""Trust is the cornerstone of all businesses.""Your mom will forget about you unless you keep posting.""The attitude is the only thing that you have control of."Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction and welcome

    00:01 – Chris' fitness transformation and health journey

    00:10 – Video marketing, real estate, and customer avatars

    00:15 – How the podcast and "Faux Pod" model evolved

    00:19 – Social media consistency and content strategy

    00:20 – Working with Tony Robbins, Gary Vee, and other entrepreneurs

    00:29 – DISC personality profiles and leadership styles

    00:31 – Mindset, attitude, and personal growth

    00:34 – Closing thoughts and wrap-up

    #ElevateAndExecute #Podcast #VideoMarketing #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #FitnessJourney #SocialMediaMarketing #ContentCreation #Mindset #Leadership #ConnectVideo #GaryVee #TonyRobbins #SmallBusinessMarketing

    35 min
  • Building a business around your passion, health transformations, and creating freedom with Captain Ryan Casey What happens when yo
    Building a business around your passion, health transformations, and creating freedom with Captain Ryan Casey

    What happens when you turn a lifelong passion into a successful business?

    In this episode of Elevate & Execute, Brian Preston and Kyle Fernandez sit down with longtime friend and entrepreneur Ryan Casey, founder of Show Me Catfishing. Ryan shares how he built one of the Midwest's most successful guided fishing operations, turning a love for fishing into a thriving business that now serves thousands of clients from around the world.

    The conversation covers everything from fishing adventures on the Mississippi River and building a business from scratch to overcoming cancer, improving health in your 40s, and creating financial freedom through real estate investing.

    If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a lifestyle around something you love while still creating long-term wealth and freedom, this episode is for you.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    • How Ryan turned a passion for fishing into a full-time business
    • What it's like guiding clients on the Mississippi River
    • The biggest fish ever caught from his boat
    • Lessons learned from 17 years as a business owner
    • Why health becomes more important in your 40s and 50s
    • Ryan's experience overcoming testicular cancer
    • The reality of TRT, fitness, and improving quality of life as you age
    • Why creating multiple streams of income matters
    • Beginner advice for buying your first investment property
    • The importance of taking calculated risks and betting on yourself

    Key takeawaysTurning passion into profit

    Ryan built Show Me Catfishing into the largest catfishing guide service in the St. Louis region. What started as a love for fishing became a business that now employs multiple guides and attracts customers from across the United States and around the world.

    The Mississippi River is no joke

    From navigating powerful currents to helping clients land 100+ pound fish, Ryan shares stories from thousands of guided trips and explains why the Mississippi remains one of the most unique fisheries in the country.

    Health is an investment

    The guys discuss the reality of aging, fitness, nutrition, TRT, fasting, and building habits that allow you to stay active and capable later in life.

    Surviving cancer changes perspective

    Ryan opens up about his battle with testicular cancer, how it was discovered, and why regular checkups and paying attention to your health can be life-changing.

    Financial freedom requires action

    The conversation shifts into real estate investing, where Brian and Kyle break down practical advice for beginners looking to buy rental properties and create long-term wealth.

    Memorable moments
    • Ryan shares stories from over 30 years of friendship with Brian and Kyle
    • Catching catfish weighing more than 100 pounds
    • A customer accidentally driving Ryan's boat into a barge
    • The first person to ever fall overboard during one of Ryan's guided trips
    • Building a guide service that has hosted clients from Switzerland, Ukraine, Canada, and the UK
    • The reality of balancing business ownership, family, health, and personal goals

    About Ryan Casey

    Ryan Casey is the founder and owner of Show Me Catfishing, one of the premier guided fishing services in the Midwest. For nearly two decades, Ryan has guided thousands of anglers on the Mississippi River, helping clients catch trophy-sized catfish while building a business around the sport he loves.

    Connect with Ryan

    Website: https://showmecatfishing.com

    Interested in booking a trip? Show Me Catfishing offers guided fishing experiences on the Mississippi River for anglers of all skill levels.

    Quote from the episode

    "Just got tired of feeling like crap, having no energy, and wanted to make a change."

    "Most people spend their lives wishing they had started sooner. Just start."

    "If you do something you love, eventually it becomes a job. But I still love seeing people catch big fish."

    1 hr 16 min
  • Building a real estate career from scratch with Spencer Argueta
    Elevate and Execute PodcastBuilding a real estate career from scratch with Spencer Argueta

    In this episode of Elevate and Execute, Brian Preston and Kyle Fernandez sit down with Elevate Realty partner Spencer Argueta to discuss her journey from Colorado stay-at-home mom to becoming one of the top-producing agents and owners at Elevate Realty.

    Spencer shares how a relocation to St. Louis led to an unexpected career in real estate, the lessons she learned building a business in a city where she knew no one, and how strategic lead generation, relationship-building, and consistency helped her grow from a handful of transactions to helping build a brokerage on pace for hundreds of millions in annual sales.

    The conversation also takes a deep dive into Zillow, buyer agency agreements, lead generation, database building, and what today's consumers need to understand about working with real estate agents.

    What you'll learn
    • How Spencer went from knowing nobody in St. Louis to becoming a top-producing Realtor
    • Why relationships are the foundation of a successful real estate career
    • The importance of saying "yes" early in your business
    • How Zillow became one of the largest lead-generation platforms in real estate
    • The difference between Zillow's traditional lead model and Zillow Preferred/Flex
    • Why building and nurturing a database creates long-term success
    • How Missouri's buyer agency laws have changed the home-buying process
    • What buyers should know before signing an agency agreement
    • Why experience matters when choosing a real estate agent
    • How Elevate Realty helps new agents accelerate their growth

    Key topics discussedSpencer's journey to St. Louis
    • Relocating from Colorado after her husband's company transfer
    • Working at Lifetime Fitness and meeting Kyle Fernandez
    • Getting her real estate license while raising three children
    • Choosing a small brokerage over large national brands

    Building a business from zero
    • Starting without a sphere of influence
    • Leveraging internet leads and strategic partnerships
    • Reinvesting earnings back into lead generation
    • Growing through referrals and repeat clients

    Zillow explained
    • How Zillow became the nation's largest real estate portal
    • Understanding lead generation and Zillow Preferred
    • The true cost and value of paid leads
    • Why databases are more valuable than individual transactions

    Missouri buyer agency agreements
    • What changed in Missouri law
    • Why buyers must now sign agreements before viewing homes
    • Different agency agreement options available to consumers
    • How buyers can protect themselves during the process

    Advice for new agents
    • Why consistency beats shortcuts
    • The importance of training and coaching
    • How new agents can shorten the time between licensing and their first paycheck
    • What separates successful agents from those who leave the industry

    Memorable quotes"Real estate is a relationship business.""The value in real estate is in your CRM and your database.""I want to earn your business and become your agent for life.""The more people I meet, the more people will transact.""If you're saying no all the time, you're stealing from your future income."About Spencer Argueta

    Spencer Argueta is a partner at Elevate Realty and one of the driving forces behind the brokerage's growth. After relocating to St. Louis from Colorado, she built a thriving real estate business from the ground up and now helps coach and mentor agents while overseeing key systems, operations, and lead-generation strategies within the company.

    Connect with Elevate Realty

    Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or exploring a career in real estate, Elevate Realty's mission is simple:

    To elevate the lives of our clients, our agents, and the communities we serve.

    59 min
  • Contracts, Commission Conversations, and Earning Your Value
    Elevate and Execute — Episode: Contracts, Commission Conversations, and Earning Your Value

    Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston

    Guest: Larry Siebert

    Episode Summary

    In this insightful episode of Elevate and Execute, Kyle and Brian sit down with Larry Siebert to break down the real conversations happening around commissions, contracts, and client expectations in today’s real estate market.

    They dive into how the industry has shifted, what agents are experiencing in the field, and why professionalism and communication are more important than ever. The conversation centers on buyer agreements, how compensation is actually structured, and how seasoned agents confidently explain their value in a changing landscape.

    Larry shares his perspective on navigating negotiations, setting expectations early, and why agents who lead with clarity instead of fear will continue to win. The episode reinforces a core theme: you don’t justify your commission — you demonstrate it.

    What You’ll Learn
    1. How to confidently explain commission structures to buyers and sellers
    2. Why buyer agreements are becoming more important in today’s market
    3. The difference between “charging” a commission and “earning” it
    4. How to handle compensation objections without getting defensive
    5. Why professionalism and preparation separate career agents from part-timers
    6. How to set expectations early so deals don’t fall apart later
    7. The long-term impact of protecting your value instead of discounting it

    Notable Quotes“You don’t defend your commission — you demonstrate your value.” “If you’re uncomfortable talking about compensation, you’re not prepared.” “Clarity up front prevents conflict later.” “Professionals don’t race to the bottom.”Subscribe & Review

    If this episode helped you rethink how you present your value and navigate compensation conversations, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another agent who’s building their business the right way.

    Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly conversations about real estate, leadership, and building sustainable careers.

    1 hr
  • Real Estate Chaos, Lead Sources, and Building a Business Through Real Life - Larry Siebert
    Elevate and Execute — Episode: Real Estate Chaos, Lead Sources, and Building a Business Through Real Life

    Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston

    Guest: Larry Siebert

    Episode Summary

    In this candid and entertaining episode of Elevate and Execute, Kyle and Brian sit down with Larry Siebert for a wide-ranging conversation about the realities of building a real estate business while juggling real life, unpredictable situations, and constant change.

    The episode opens with real-world stories from the field—unexpected showings, awkward moments, and the kind of chaos that only happens in real estate. From there, the conversation moves into lead generation, long-term relationship building, and what actually drives repeat and referral business.

    Larry shares insights on consistency, professionalism, and why showing up the right way matters more than being perfect. The group also talks about the difference between buying time versus saving money, how systems reduce stress, and why most success in real estate comes from simply doing the basics exceptionally well over time.

    This episode balances humor, honesty, and practical advice—making it relatable for new agents and seasoned professionals alike.

    What You’ll Learn
    1. Why real estate rarely goes as planned—and how to stay professional anyway
    2. How chaos in the field builds experience and confidence
    3. The long-term value of relationships over transactions
    4. Why consistency beats intensity in real estate careers
    5. How to think about time vs. money when growing your business
    6. What actually builds trust with clients
    7. Why systems and preparation reduce stress and mistakes
    8. How to build a sustainable real estate career without burnout

    Notable Quotes“Real estate isn’t about perfection—it’s about professionalism.” “The deals you do today are planting seeds for years down the road.” “Most success comes from doing simple things consistently well.” “You can’t eliminate chaos in real estate, but you can control how you respond to it.” “Time is the one thing you can’t get back—protect it.”Subscribe & Review

    If this episode made you laugh, reflect, or rethink how you approach your business, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow agent who understands the chaos.

    Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly conversations about real estate, business, and building careers that last.

    1 hr 1 min

About The Elevate and Execute Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The Elevate and Execute Podcast is where real estate, faith, and personal growth collide. Hosted by three St. Louis-based realtors—Kyle, Brian, and David—this show explores what it means to elevate…