Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this jam-packed episode, the guys dive into three major themes dominating the real estate world right now: agent safety, the lies clients are hearing about the market, and the truth about the new contracts and commission changes.

They kick things off with real, unfiltered stories from the field — from walking into questionable properties, to dealing with loose dogs, to why Missouri agents need to understand self-defense and gun laws.

From there, they shift into one of the most important topics today: the myths and misinformation being spread about the housing market. They break down why headlines are misleading, why inventory levels tell the real story, and how buyers are being scared out of great opportunities by bad information.

The final part of the episode digs into the new real estate contracts, why commissions disappeared from the MLS, and the truth behind buyer-agent compensation going forward. They explain what’s actually changing, what isn’t, and how to navigate offers in the new landscape with confidence and strategy.

• Practical safety protocols every agent should follow when entering unfamiliar properties
• Why Missouri’s carry laws matter for realtors — and when carrying can be a risk
• How to properly announce yourself during showings to avoid dangerous encounters
• The myths clients believe about a “market crash” and why the data says otherwise
• Why 1.7 months of inventory is a huge signal that prices aren’t dropping
• How taxes and insurance are impacting affordability (and why “fixed payments” aren’t fixed)
• The biggest lie first-time buyers believe about escrow
• The truth about the new contracts and why seller-paid commission is still allowed
• How buyer-agent compensation is actually negotiated now
• Why actual commissions have been dropping for years — and what agents can do to stay valuable
• The harsh reality of how many agents only sell 1–2 homes a year
• Why long-term wealth for agents comes from owning real estate, not selling it

If this episode gave you clarity about the market, safety, or the new contracts, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow agent or homeowner who needs the truth — not the headlines.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly conversations on real estate, business strategy, and building wealth the right way.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, Spencer (Guest Co-Host)

Note: David O. is absent as he transitions into building his own brokerage.

In this deep-dive episode, the Elevate and Execute team sits down with Spencer, co-owner of Elevate Realty, to unpack her journey from relocating to St. Louis with zero connections to becoming one of the top agents in the region.

They walk through her early days in the gym industry, how she built trust and relationships from scratch, and the bold decision to join Kyle and Brian when the brokerage was still small. From growing her own production to helping architect Elevate’s systems, training, and B2B strategy, Spencer’s story highlights the power of saying “yes,” reinvesting in yourself, and building a business through relationships.

The episode then shifts into a masterclass on Zillow, lead generation, and the truth behind modern real estate customer acquisition. The hosts break down how Zillow really works, why they leaned into B2B partnerships instead of old-school prospecting, and how the team scaled from $3M to $300M in volume by committing to data, speed, and exceptional service.

Whether you’re a consumer wondering how Zillow routes leads, or an agent trying to build a career that actually scales, this episode gives you the insider perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

• How Spencer built a 10M+ production business in a city where she knew no one
• Why saying “yes” early in your real estate career is the key to exponential growth
• The difference between hunting vs. farming in real estate
• How Elevate Realty scaled using B2B partnerships vs. cold-calling
• The real inner workings of Zillow, including:
• How leads are routed
• Why Zillow prioritizes consumers (not agents)
• What Zillow Flex/Zillow Preferred actually is
• Why speed and service lead to better lead flow
• Why database nurturing is the real ROI behind online leads
• The truth about buyer’s agency under the new Missouri law
• What consumers need to know about signing multiple agency agreements
• Why partnering with a high-performing team matters more than ever
• How new agents at Elevate are closing 15–23+ deals in their first year

If this behind-the-scenes look at Zillow, lead gen, and agent success gave you new insight, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready to level up their real estate business—or someone who wants to understand how the industry really works.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly episodes on real estate, business strategy, and building a career (and life) you’re proud of.

Elevate and Execute — Episode: The Best Investments You Can Make (Financially and Personally)

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

Episode Summary

In this value-packed episode, the guys dive into one of the biggest questions people ask them:

“What’s the best investment I can make right now?”

They break the conversation into two powerful categories:

financial investments and personal investments.

The first half of the episode focuses on why real estate continues to outperform other asset classes, how leverage amplifies returns, and the biggest mistakes homeowners make when refinancing or tapping equity. They offer real-world examples of amortization traps, rent-vs-own decisions, and how to structure your primary residence for long-term wealth.

Then the conversation shifts into the personal side: self-development, discipline, habits, and lifelong learning. The hosts share their favorite books, podcasts, mindset shifts, and the routines that have helped them grow as entrepreneurs, husbands, and leaders. From Jocko Willink to Kiyosaki to Grant Cardone, this episode is loaded with practical recommendations anyone can apply.

Whether you’re trying to build wealth, build discipline, or both—this episode will sharpen your thinking and give you a blueprint for leveling up.

What You’ll Learn

Why real estate remains the most predictable, stable, and leveraged investment

How amortization really works—and how refinancing can cost you more than it saves

The truth about primary residences vs. rentals (and why they’re different kinds of assets)

How to use equity and HELOCs the smart way to scale your portfolio

Why leverage in real estate produces returns you can’t get in stocks or crypto

The dangers of relying on appreciation alone

How discipline impacts every area of your life—from fitness to finances

The best personal investments: books, podcasts, mentorship, and better habits

Why knowledge compounds just like money

How to intentionally build routines that shape your long-term success

Notable Quotes

“Even when real estate is down, it’s still paying you.”

“If you reset your loan to a new 30-year mortgage, that ‘cheap’ refinance could cost you hundreds of thousands.”

“You don’t need more motivation—just more discipline.”

“People don’t determine their destinies. They determine their habits, and their habits determine their destinies.”

“The real rock stars of the next decade are entrepreneurs and business owners.”

Subscribe & Review

If this episode gave you a new perspective on money, habits, or growth, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who wants to elevate their life and invest in their future.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly conversations on real estate, personal development, and building a life that scales.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this thought-provoking episode of Elevate and Execute, the team explores how perspective shapes success—and why your mindset determines whether challenges become roadblocks or breakthroughs.

Through personal stories and real business experiences, the guys unpack how shifting perspective can turn stress into strategy, mistakes into lessons, and setbacks into setups. They discuss how leaders think differently under pressure, the importance of zooming out during tough seasons, and how reframing situations leads to better decisions in both life and business.

This episode is a reminder that success isn’t about what happens to you—it’s about how you see it and what you do next.

• How to shift your mindset from reaction to response
• Why challenges often disguise your biggest growth opportunities
• The role of perspective in leadership, business, and relationships
• How to find calm and clarity in chaotic situations
• Practical ways to reframe problems into possibilities
• Why setbacks are necessary for long-term growth
• How staying grateful keeps you grounded and resilient

If this episode gave you a new way to look at your challenges, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a mindset shift today.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly episodes on business, mindset, and real estate success—because perspective is the edge every leader needs.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this motivating and practical episode, the Elevate and Execute crew breaks down the secret behind long-term success—commitment. Whether it’s real estate, business, health, or relationships, the guys share why consistency and follow-through will always outperform talent, timing, or luck.

They open up about what true commitment looks like in daily life, how to stay focused when motivation fades, and why most people quit just before the breakthrough. From early career struggles to the systems they use now, this episode is packed with honest insight and reminders that doing the work—even when it’s boring—is what separates dreamers from doers.

• The difference between motivation and commitment (and why only one lasts)
• Why repetition and consistency build real freedom
• How to find balance between patience and urgency in your goals
• What daily habits top producers rely on to stay ahead
• How to stay accountable when no one’s watching
• Why delayed gratification is the hallmark of every successful entrepreneur
• Real stories from the team’s journey building Elevate Realty and beyond

If this episode inspired you to show up stronger and stay consistent, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs that reminder today.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly episodes on business, real estate, and personal growth—because success isn’t complicated. It’s just commitment.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this motivational and down-to-earth episode, the Elevate and Execute crew unpacks The Comfort Paradox—the idea that comfort is often the biggest obstacle to true happiness, growth, and success.

They dive deep into what “comfort” really means to most people—steady paychecks, predictable schedules, and the illusion of security—and contrast it with the discomfort, uncertainty, and freedom that come from entrepreneurship. From giving up corporate salaries to taking massive risks in real estate and business, the guys share their personal stories of breaking free from the comfort trap and why true fulfillment often comes from controlled chaos.

Whether you’re stuck in a stable but unfulfilling job or already running your own business, this conversation will push you to rethink what comfort is costing you.

• Why the “comfortable life” isn’t always the happy one
• How the illusion of security keeps people from chasing their dreams
• What it really looks like to transition from employee to entrepreneur
• Why early entrepreneurship means working more for less (and why that’s okay)
• The importance of partnerships, delegation, and building trust with your team
• How slow, intentional growth creates lasting success
• Lessons learned from near-mistakes and great advice that saved their business
• Why failing forward is the real key to freedom

If this episode challenged your definition of comfort, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready to take the leap from comfort to courage.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly episodes on real estate, entrepreneurship, and personal growth—where comfort ends and real success begins.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this candid and high-energy episode of Elevate and Execute, the guys tackle one of the most common questions in real estate and business alike: “Should I wait?” From clients waiting for the “perfect” interest rate to entrepreneurs waiting for the “right” time to start, they break down why hesitation often costs more than taking action.

The conversation moves through real-world stories from recent transactions, buyer psychology in today’s market, and the myth of “timing it right.” They share how interest rates, inflation, and affordability are shaping decisions—and why mindset and long-term vision still matter more than market conditions.

As always, the hosts blend humor, personal experience, and straight talk about what it really takes to move forward when everyone else is waiting.

• Why waiting for the perfect market often leads to missed opportunities
• How interest rates and inflation affect affordability—and what to focus on instead
• Real-life examples of clients who won (or lost) by waiting too long
• The emotional and financial cost of inaction
• How to make smart moves in uncertain times
• Why taking imperfect action beats perfect timing every time

If this episode challenged your mindset or gave you that push to finally take action, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s been sitting on the sidelines.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly insights on business, mindset, and real estate success—because action always wins.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

In this wide-ranging episode, the hosts kick off 2025 with bold conversation—covering the political landscape, money, and the mindsets shaping a new year. They discuss the impact of new leadership in the White House, the idea of eliminating income tax, and how tariffs and American-made goods could reshape the economy.

The conversation then shifts into real estate insights for 2025—interest-rate stability, inventory challenges, and why Missouri remains one of the most consistent, balanced markets in the U.S. Finally, the team pivots to health and self-discipline as David shares his powerful story of losing 20+ pounds through fasting, habit changes, and redefining what “healthy” really means.

This episode blends finance, freedom, and focus—offering perspective on both personal and economic renewal.

• Why tariffs and tax reform could change how America earns and spends
• The real estate market outlook for 2025: rates, inventory, and buyer behavior
• How refinancing can help —or hurt— long-term wealth building
• Why St. Louis remains a steady investment market for out-of-state buyers
• How “subject-to” deals and creative financing are reshaping investing (plus the risks to watch)
• David’s personal journey with fasting and discipline for mental and physical clarity
• Practical tips for sustainable health and performance as a busy professional

If this conversation gave you new energy for your business, your finances, or your health, hit subscribe and leave a review.

Follow Elevate and Execute for weekly conversations on real estate, business, mindset, and building a life you actually want to live.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

Guest: Lindsay Whitaker

In this inspiring episode, the Elevate and Execute crew sits down with Lindsay Whitaker, a St. Louis real estate investor and property management expert who scaled from humble beginnings to owning and operating over 700 rental units.

Lindsay shares how she started in pizza delivery and insurance sales before jumping into her first real estate deal—and the systems, mindset, and people that helped her grow a massive portfolio. The conversation dives deep into scaling operations, creative finance, the challenges of property management, and how she built a self-managing business using tools like AppFolio and a strong internal team.

It’s a masterclass in growth, grit, and building freedom through real estate.

• How Lindsay went from her first rental to 700+ doors in under a decade
• The importance of building systems before scaling
• Why she transitioned from self-managing to a hybrid management model
• Creative finance and deal structures that fueled her expansion
• How to lead, hire, and build culture inside a real estate company
• The biggest mindset shifts needed to go from small investor to business owner
• Favorite tech and tools for managing large portfolios efficiently
• Lessons learned from mistakes—and why you shouldn’t fear failure

If Lindsay’s story motivated you to think bigger and build smarter, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another investor or entrepreneur ready to scale.

For more insights, follow Elevate and Execute on YouTube, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

The guys open with real-world safety practices when showing properties (including why some agents carry and how to announce yourself when entering a vacant home). They shift into a rapid-fire discussion of common “lies” they see in real estate—market-crash headlines, “fixed” payments with escrow, and misconceptions around taxes and wealth building—before finishing with how the new contracts/commission rules actually work post-MLS display changes (and how buyer-agent compensation is being handled inside offers now).

• Practical safety protocols for showings (announcing, clearing rooms, utilities off, flashlights; why non-lethal “rubber bullet” guns can escalate danger).
• Missouri carry context for realtors and why “always carry or don’t carry” matters.
• Why “fixed payment” isn’t really fixed when you escrow taxes/insurance, and how reserves/self-escrow can help.
• A candid take on how much tax people actually pay when you add everything up.
• Owning vs. renting, and smarter starts (multifamily/house-hack, live-for-less strategies).
• New contracts: what changed on the MLS, who can still pay what, and how buyer-agent comp is getting written into offers.