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Aug 30, 2025 | In this episode, I open up about something different — not interest rates or housing trends, but something that every realtor, loan officer, and entrepreneur silently battles: mental health.

I sit down with my therapist, Carissa Karner, to talk about the challenges of burnout, anxiety, and the pressure to always be “on” in the real estate and mortgage industry. Carissa has been a huge part of my journey, helping me process trauma, set boundaries, and finally build a healthier relationship with both my business and myself.

We talk about everything from why 87% of realtors quit in the first five years, to the unhealthy coping mechanisms so many of us lean on, and how therapy tools like EMDR, conscious breathing, and boundary-setting can completely change the game.

This is one of the most personal episodes I’ve ever recorded, and I hope it brings value to anyone out there feeling like the grind is crushing them. If I can find a better way forward, so can you.

✅ Key Takeaways

87% of realtors quit in the first 5 years — burnout is real.
Boundaries aren’t selfish — they’re survival.
Therapy provides tools to process stress and trauma.
EMDR can unlock deep healing you didn’t know you needed.
Even small shifts (breathing, check-ins, phone boundaries) can change your day.
Overwork and people-pleasing hurt your business long-term.
Fun and play aren’t distractions — they’re necessary for peak performance.
Therapy isn’t just for rock bottom; it prevents collapse too.
Investing in yourself is the best ROI you’ll ever get.

#realestatelife #realtorwellness #mortgagelife #mentalhealthmatters #burnoutrecovery #therapyworks #anxietysupport #realestatepodcast #loanofficerlife #worklifebalance #emdrtherapy #realtormotivation #careerwellness #realestatesuccess #mentalhealthawareness #businessgrowth #selfcaretips #realtortips #personaldevelopment #realestatecommunity

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Aug 28, 2025 | In this episode, Jason Thibodeau sits down with his close friend and longtime client, Lane Stone of the Sack and Stone Team at Seven Gables Real Estate. Having worked together since 2009, Jason and Lane bring both personal history and industry expertise to the table as they unpack today’s biggest real estate challenges and opportunities.

They dive into everything from the power of social media marketing (and why YouTube is the future) to the reality of overpriced listings and how integrity sets great agents apart. Lane also shares his take on AI tools like ChatGPT in real estate, how they’re helping agents back up pricing strategies, and why patience matters for both buyers and sellers in today’s neutral market.

From the struggles first-time buyers face in Orange County to creative solutions like house hacking and even crowdfunding, Jason and Lane keep it real about what it takes to succeed in real estate now. If you’re curious about where the market is heading, how interest rates and job reports play in, or how to stay competitive as an agent, this conversation has you covered.

Follow Lane Stone!
Instagram: laneinoc
YouTube: @SackinStoneTeam

Follow Jason Thibodeau!
Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial
Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau
NMLS 296586

🔑 Key Takeaways

Integrity matters: tell clients what they need to hear, not just what they want.
Social media, especially YouTube, is the next big frontier in real estate marketing.
AI tools like ChatGPT can provide real data and insights that impress sellers.
Orange County’s market is still competitive, but patience is key for buyers and sellers.
Overpricing homes often leads to sitting on the market—pricing right is crucial.
First-time buyers are finding creative paths: house hacking, roommates, even crowdfunding.
Digital marketing can stretch your budget further than traditional print campaigns.
A balanced market (not the frenzy of 2021) benefits both buyers and sellers.
Interest rates hinge on job reports—watch closely for upcoming shifts.
Patience + smart strategy = long-term success in today’s housing landscape.

#realestate #orangecountyrealestate #housingmarket #mortgagerates #realestatetips #firsttimehomebuyer #realestatemarketing #socialmediamarketing #youtubeformarketing #aiinrealestate #homebuyingtips #sellinghomes #realestateinvesting #markettrends #realestatestrategy #realtorlife #househacking #mortgageadvice #homeownership #realestatetalk

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Aug 24, 2025 | In this episode, I sit down with Leila, a dedicated student at Washington State University and a dancer on their Division I team. Balancing academics with the demands of high-level competition, she brings a unique perspective on discipline, growth, and resilience—lessons that extend far beyond the dance floor.

Together, we dive into the realities of pursuing excellence, from long training hours and competition pressure to the personal growth that comes from pushing through challenges. Leila shares how her experiences in both dance and academics have shaped her mindset, teaching her focus, adaptability, and the power of perseverance.

This isn’t just a story about dance—it’s about building habits, staying motivated, and applying the lessons of teamwork and dedication to every area of life. Whether you’re chasing athletic dreams, academic success, or personal growth, Leila’s story proves that steady effort and resilience can take you far.

Follow Leila Meghdadi!
Instagram: leila.meghdadi

Follow Jason Thibodeau!
Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial
Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau
NMLS 296586

✅ Key Takeaways

Starting dance at age 2, Leila dedicated years of daily training and competitions to her craft.
Dance provided not just athletic growth but also emotional therapy and lifelong friendships.
Her journey to a Division 1 team wasn’t easy—it involved rejection, persistence, and resilience.
Moving out of state taught her independence, adaptability, and the value of creating a new community.
Burnout became a real challenge when she overloaded herself with jobs, classes, and responsibilities.
Learning balance and the art of saying no is key to long-term success and happiness.
Family support has been a cornerstone of her journey, making the sacrifices worthwhile.

#dancelife #collegejourney #division1 #crimsongirls #washingtonstateuniversity #passionandpurpose #burnoutrecovery #findingbalance #studentathlete #dancecommunity #personalgrowth #collegedancer #danceteam #independencejourney #firstpodcast #ambitionandbalance #dreambig #mentorship #resilience #familyfirst

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Aug 22, 2025 | In this episode, Matt sits down with Kayla Frerking of Leader 1031, one of the top experts in 1031 Exchanges, to break down everything investors need to know about this powerful tax strategy.

Whether you’re selling your first rental property or managing a multi-million-dollar portfolio, understanding 1031 exchanges could save you hundreds of thousands in capital gains taxes. Kayla shares her journey from growing up in a real estate family to becoming a Qualified Intermediary (QI) and industry leader, all while simplifying the most common questions around exchanges.

Follow Kayla Frerking!
Instagram: kaylalyn_frerk
Website: https://www.leaderbank.com/business-b...

Follow Matt Morrell!
Instagram: MattsMorrell
Website: https://themorrellteam.com/
NMLS 1008678

✅ Key Takeaways

📌 1031 Exchanges allow investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting into new property.
📌 A Qualified Intermediary (QI) is essential to legally facilitate the exchange.
📌Investors must identify replacement properties within 45 days and close within 180 days.
📌Debt must be replaced (or offset with cash) — otherwise, it becomes taxable “boot.”
📌Exchanges are strictly for investment property — not primary residences.
📌You can trade between property types (e.g., hotel → condos) as long as they’re real property.
📌DSTs (Delaware Statutory Trusts) are a creative option for diversifying exchanges.
📌Investors should plan exchanges early to avoid last-minute mistakes.
📌Step-up in basis makes real estate one of the most powerful wealth-transfer tools.
📌1031s remain on the tax code despite political discussions of limiting or eliminating them.

#1031exchange #realestatetaxes #realestateinvesting #taxstrategy #realestatewealth #capitalgains #realestatetips #investingforbeginners #wealthbuilding #taxdeferred #propertyinvesting #realestatemarket #dst #realestateinvestor #financialfreedom #passiveincome #realestatetaxstrategy #qu

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Aug 20, 2025 | Is the housing market in a bubble—or are we just facing a new kind of normal? In this thought-provoking episode, Jason and Mike dive deep into the realities of today’s housing market, interest rate trends, and how economic shifts are affecting homebuyers, sellers, and investors alike.

From the importance of understanding your mortgage options to the long-term impact of tax laws and consumer behavior, this conversation gives you the clarity and confidence you need to navigate an unpredictable real estate world.

Whether you're a Realtor, mortgage professional, first-time homebuyer, or seasoned investor, this episode offers practical insights to help you make smarter decisions in a volatile market.

Follow Mike Grambow!
Instagram: mike_grambow_mortgage
Facebook: Mike Grambow Mortgage
Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage
Website: www.jmj.me/mgrambow
NMLS 1766492

Follow Jason Thibodeau!
Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial
Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau
NMLS 296586

Key Takeaways:
The housing market is driven by local trends—not a national crisis.
Interest rates heavily impact buyer demand and affordability.
Choosing the right mortgage product can make or break your investment.
Tax implications are game-changers for both new homeowners and real estate investors.
Economic uncertainty and rate hikes are influencing cautious buyer behavior.
Tariffs and inflation have a ripple effect across consumer spending.
Home pricing strategies must evolve with market shifts.
A balanced market is essential for long-term sustainability in real estate.

#housingmarket #realestatepodcast #mortgagetips #interestrates #realestatetips #realtorlife #homebuying101 #housingbubble #realestateinvesting #mortgagebroker #homebuyerhelp #taxstrategy #economicupdate #marketinsights #housingupdate #realestatetalk #mortgageadvice #homefinancing #realestatenews #smartinvesting

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Aug 18, 2025 | In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Roberts to talk about the real, unfiltered side of working in real estate — the challenges that push us to grow and the lessons we wish we knew earlier. We dive into how AI is shaking up the industry, why building genuine relationships still matters more than ever, and how effective digital marketing can make or break your business.

We also share our personal journeys — from real estate investing wins (and mistakes) to navigating the ever-changing dynamics of homeownership. And of course, we talk about where the market might be headed next, and how you can position yourself to adapt and thrive.

If you’re in real estate, investing, or just curious about how technology and human connection intersect in this industry, you’ll walk away with insights, strategies, and maybe even a little motivation to push through your own “hard times.”

Follow Lauren Roberts!
Instagram: laurenRobertsRealEstate
Facebook: Lauren Roberts Real Estate Agent
Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage
Website: https://laurenrobertshb.com/
Mobile: (657) 331-1856
Email: [email protected]

Follow Jason Thibodeau!
Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial
Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau
NMLS 296586

Key Takeaways

Hard times can be your biggest teachers in business and life.
AI is transforming how agents, investors, and buyers approach real estate.
Strong relationships are still the foundation of a successful career.
Digital marketing works best when it’s strategic and authentic.
Understanding market shifts is essential to long-term success.
Real estate investing creates opportunities for growth and stability.
Homeownership offers both financial and personal rewards.
Market trends are evolving — flexibility is key.
Each marketing platform has unique rules you must master.
Lifelong learning is non-negotiable in real estate.

#realestate #realestatetips #realestatemarketing #realestateinvesting #housingmarket2025 #aiinrealestate #realestateagent #digitalmarketing #realtorlife #realestatetools #realestatestrategy #realestategrowth #realestateadvice #homeownership #propertyinvestment #markettrends #realtortraining #realestateeducation #realestatecareer

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Aug 16, 2025 | In this powerful conversation, Jason and Matt pull back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in the mortgage and real estate space during times of transition. From relocating their families and businesses to leading teams through unpredictable markets, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom and real stories of resilience.

They talk leadership, shifting tax landscapes, and how adaptability has become the superpower for navigating today’s economic realities. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about relationships, strategic thinking, and staying grounded while reaching for growth.

Whether you’re a mortgage professional, real estate agent, or just someone chasing better—this one will leave you inspired and ready to pivot with purpose.

Follow Matt Morrell!
Instagram: MattsMorrell
Website: https://themorrellteam.com/
NMLS 1008678

Follow Jason Thibodeau!
Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial
Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau
NMLS 296586

Key Takeaways
🚚 Relocation isn't failure—it’s growth. Sometimes a new zip code is the reset your business needs.

🧠 Mindset trumps market conditions. If you’re flexible, you’ll always find a way forward.

🧩 Build the right team. Leadership isn’t about control, it’s about trust and clear vision.

💬 Talk about the hard stuff. Emotions, mistakes, and real conversations matter more than ever.

📉 Tax and market shifts are real—prepare instead of panic.

#mortgageindustry #realestateagents #leadershipmindset #businessgrowth #mortgagecoach #realestatetips #marketupdates #financialplanning #relocationjourney #adaptabilityiskey #teamdynamics #entrepreneurmindset #mortgagebrokerlife #realestatetalk #taxstrategies #strategicgrowth #realtorcommunity #mindsetmatters #homebuyingtips #realestatesuccess 

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Aug 13, 2025 | In this episode, we sit down with Allen Neeley to talk all things real estate—and it’s not just about numbers and transactions. Alan shares how his banking background shaped the way he shows up for clients today, with a big focus on education, relationships, and doing what’s right for people.

He opens up about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with buying or selling a home, and why being honest, patient, and proactive matters so much. We also touch on how personal values and family life have shaped his career, and how he uses those same principles to build long-term client trust.

Follow Allen Neeley!
Instagram: Allen Neeley
Facebook: Allen Neeley
Website: https://www.teamneeley.com/

Follow Matt Morrell!
Instagram: MattsMorrell
Website: https://themorrellteam.com/
NMLS 1008678

He opens up about:
✔️ How his banking roots shaped a client-first real estate philosophy
✔️ The emotional rollercoaster clients go through when buying or selling
✔️ Why education is key to setting healthy expectations
✔️ Tax advantages that many buyers and sellers overlook
✔️ How personal values and family life inspire his work ethic
✔️ Building long-term trust that leads to referrals and repeat business

This is more than just a conversation—it’s a reminder that behind every transaction is a human story.

#realestatetips #clientrelationships #homebuyingjourney #realestatesuccess #emotionalintelligence #realestateeducation #taxbenefits #alanneely #realestatestory #valuesbasedbusiness #relationshipmarketing #realestatetalks #realtoradvice #trustbuilding #longtermclients #firsttimehomebuyer #homesellingtips #realestatejourney #personaldevelopment #familyandbusiness

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Aug 9, 2025 | Valerie Neely shares her journey into real estate, from her start in banking and mortgages to becoming a full-time Realtor. Valerie brings a unique perspective that helps her clients feel seen, heard, and empowered.

She discusses working with her husband (yes, it works!), educating buyers on the loan side of things, and why solid communication with lenders is a total game-changer. Valerie also reminds us how much staging and marketing matter, and why even in a shifting market, being informed is the best strategy.

This episode is packed with real talk, heart, and helpful advice—whether you’re a new agent, a curious buyer, or just love a good story about hustle and heart.

Follow Valerie Victoria Neeley!
Instagram:Valerie Victoria Neeley
Facebook:   / teamneeleyre 
Website: https://www.teamneeley.com/

Follow Matt Morrell!
Instagram: MattsMorrell
Website: https://themorrellteam.com/
NMLS 1008678

She shares:
✔️ How being a mom shaped her ambition and work ethic
✔️ The benefit of understanding both sides of the transaction
✔️ What it’s really like building a business with your spouse
✔️ Why negotiation and strategy are everything in real estate
✔️ How staging and marketing affect home sales
✔️ The must-know facts about pre-approvals and financial readiness
✔️ Why communication with lenders can make or break a deal
✔️ How historical data empowers better client decisions

Valerie reminds us that real estate isn’t just about selling homes—it’s about guiding people toward long-term, informed investments with confidence and care.

#realestatejourney #valerieneely #bankingtorealestate #realestatetips #homebuyingadvice #preapprovalprocess #realestateeducation #realtorinsight #negotiationskills #workingwithspouse #clienttrust #realestatestrategy #staginghomes #marketinghomes

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Are you a first-time homebuyer feeling overwhelmed by the process? In this episode, I sit down with Eduardo Castelan—a trusted real estate agent who’s helped countless buyers navigate today’s fast-moving market. 🏡

We break down the real steps you need to take before buying, including why pre-approval matters more than ever, how to make a competitive offer (without overpaying), and what to know about down payments in 2025.

Eduardo shares honest insights about interest rates, how to negotiate seller credits, and the surprising power of having a strong team behind you. Whether you’re just starting your search or already deep into the process, this episode is full of gems to help you buy with confidence.

Follow Eduardo Castelan!
Instagram:   / listwithedu 
Website:https://eduardocastelan.sites.cbmoxi....
Phone Number: Direct: (424) 202-9689 Office:(949) 644-1600
email: [email protected]

Follow Jason Thomas!
Instagram:jason_thomas_mortgage
Facebook: Jason Thomas Mortgage
Website: www.jmj.me/jthomas
NMLS 1163778

👀 You’ll Learn:

Why pre-approval should always come first

How to negotiate repairs and credits with sellers

What buyers get wrong about down payments

The truth about interest rates and monthly payments

How the right agent and lender can make or break your offer

✨ Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel impossible—with the right game plan, it’s absolutely doable. Let’s walk through it together.

#homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realestatetips #mortgagehelp #preapprovalprocess #smartinvesting #realestateeducation #homebuyingjourney #buyersguide #downpaymentassistance #sellercredits #negotiationskills #realestatestrategy #mortgageexpert #realtorandlenderteam #househuntingtips #financialplanning #homeownershipgoals #youtubeepisode