Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be.

This week on The Road Ahead, we're joined by Pat Smarto, broker and owner of Lakes Realty Group, to break down the home buying process, explain what really matters when preparing financially, and share practical advice that can save first-time buyers thousands of dollars. From credit scores and down payments to navigating multiple offers and avoiding common mistakes, Pat offers straightforward guidance for anyone thinking about buying a home.

We also discuss why community matters, how Lakes Realty has given back over $300,000 to Homes for Heroes, and why the Chain O'Lakes remains one of Illinois' best-kept secrets.

In This Episode:

-How the home buying and selling process really works

-Financial habits that prepare you to buy a home

-Why your credit score matters more than you think

-Common mistakes first-time buyers make

-How to compare mortgage lenders correctly

-Tips for winning in a competitive housing market

-Why the "ugliest house on the block" can be your best investment

-Giving back through Homes for Heroes and community involvement

Listeners of the podcast receive ONE FREE OIL CHANGE redeemable at both Ray Chevrolet and Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Mention our code "ROAD AHEAD" at the check-in counter.

What separates successful investors and business owners from everyone else?In this episode of The Road Ahead, we sit down with longtime entrepreneur and investor Mike Hara to discuss what he's learned after building and selling a business that spanned nearly five decades. Mike shares why he believes people matter more than products, how he evaluates investments, why he avoids hype-driven opportunities, and what creates lasting success in both business and real estate.

Plus, The Scarpelli's discuss how those same leadership principles have shaped the culture at Ray Auto Group and why building the right team has been one of the company's greatest competitive

In This Episode:

-Mike Hara's journey from entrepreneur to investor

-The biggest mistakes new investors make

-Why people are more important than products

-Lessons from building a 47-year business

-Investing in real estate vs. startups

-Why consistency creates successful companies

-Building a workplace people never want to leave

-The importance of company culture

-How Ray Auto Group develops long-term employees

-Creating exceptional customer experiences

Listeners of the podcast receive ONE FREE OIL CHANGE redeemable at both Ray Chevrolet and Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Mention our code "ROAD AHEAD" at the check-in counter.

What does it really take to cover one of the NFL's most talked-about franchises?

In this episode of The Road Ahead, We welcome longtime Chicago Bears reporter Adam Hoge for an inside look at sports journalism, the evolution of media, coaching culture, balancing family with a demanding career, and what Bears fans can expect from the future of the franchise. Adam also shares his thoughts on Ben Johnson's leadership, the Bears stadium debate, and why authenticity has been the key to building loyal audiences.

Later in the episode, Ray Chevrolet dives into one of its newest customer conveniences: Mobile Service. Learn how certified technicians can perform many maintenance and repair services at your home or workplace, saving you valuable time while keeping your vehicle running at its best.

Whether you're a Bears fan, a business owner, or simply looking for smarter ways to maintain your vehicle, this episode has something for everyone.

In This Episode:-Adam Hoge's journey through Chicago sports media-What it's really like covering the Bears every day-Ben Johnson's leadership and team culture-The Bears' stadium debate explained-Balancing career, coaching, and family-Building trust with an audience through authenticity-How Ray Chevrolet's Mobile Service works-Fleet maintenance and business applications-Why mobile service saves customers time and money

Listeners of the podcast receive ONE FREE OIL CHANGE redeemable at both Ray Chevrolet and Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Mention our code "ROAD AHEAD" at the check-in counter.

In the very first episode of The Road Ahead, the Scarpelli's sit down with Fox Lake Mayor Donny Schmit to discuss leadership, community, and what it takes to build a town people are proud to call home.

Donny shares how a lifetime of volunteering led him to public service, the vision behind Fox Lake's award-winning lakefront redevelopment, lessons he's learned from 14 years as mayor, and why collaboration is the key to successful leadership.

After the interview, we discuss a question many people ask: Why use a car dealership? From long-term relationships and service support to transparency and accountability, we explain why dealerships offer far more than just a place to buy a vehicle.

Whether you're interested in local leadership, community growth, or making smarter decisions about your vehicle, this episode is packed with insights.

In This Episode:

-How Donny Schmidt became Mayor of Fox Lake

-The transformation of Fox Lake's lakefront park

-Why volunteering strengthens communities

-Leadership lessons from managing a growing village

-The future vision for Fox Lake

-Why businesses matter to local communities

-Why using a dealership is about more than buying a car

-The importance of service, training, and customer relationships

-What it takes to become a six-time Dealer of the Year

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Listeners of the podcast receive ONE FREE OIL CHANGE redeemable at both Ray Chevrolet and Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Mention our code "ROAD AHEAD" at the check-in counter.

Every person has a story. Every business has a journey. Every road leads somewhere.

The Road Ahead brings you behind the wheel of the people and businesses shaping our community. From local entrepreneurs and community leaders to loyal customers with unforgettable stories, each episode uncovers the experiences, challenges, and moments that have defined their journey.

Local connections. Real conversations. Welcome to The Road Ahead.