Workspace Podcast

Real estate is about more than the money. Dania Santos of Ninja Realty shares her story. She moved from Mexico at age seven, arrived with nothing, and learned English as a young girl. She now helps families through some of the biggest moments of their lives. She explains why she treats a closing as part of someone's new chapter, and how her bilingual service, her network of lenders and vendors, and honest pricing advice set her apart.

She also covers the biggest mistakes sellers make, what actually adds value before listing, down payment assistance programs, and whether to buy now or wait for rates to drop. She ends with advice for anyone starting a business: don't give up, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Topics

• Moving from Mexico at age seven and building a life from nothing
• Why goals matter, and her mom's lesson that "nobody has a special power"
• Why she went into real estate for the money and stayed for the people
• Her process from the first walk-through to closing: professional photos, honest pricing and setting expectations
• Working with the Hispanic community, including translating at closings
• Handling difficult deals: don't take it personally, use your network, and leave the rest in prayer
• Why she works with other agents rather than competing with them
• Programs that can help buyers:
  • A North Carolina grant of $15,000 toward closing costs and down payment
  • USDA Direct, which can subsidize the monthly payment
• Seller mistakes: trusting Zillow or tax values, pricing high to "leave room to negotiate," and emotional attachment
• What adds value: repairs, curb appeal, decluttering and a deep clean
• Buying now vs. waiting: "Marry the house, date the rate," and you can refinance later
• Advice for new business owners: don't give up, ask people who are more successful, and keep learning through podcasts

Quotes

• "Nobody has a special power. You can do the same thing."
• "Marry the house, date the rate."
• "Compete with me, letting me become the best version of me."

Connect with Dania: Ninja Realty, serving Franklinton and surrounding areas of North Carolina, with Virginia coming soon. Phone: 252-425-8229 Email: [email protected]

Chapters

• 0:16 Welcome and introduction
• 0:48 Moving from Mexico and growing up with goals
• 3:47 "Nobody has a special power"
• 4:16 Why real estate: more than the money
• 6:06 Compliments, blessings and referrals
• 7:21 Why she joined Ninja Realty
• 9:15 From listing to closing: her process
• 12:20 Being bilingual and serving the Hispanic community
• 14:04 When a deal falls apart
• 15:19 Handling emotions and building a network
• 17:13 What sets her apart
• 20:15 The most common question: how much do I need to buy?
• 20:41 Down payment assistance programs
• 22:52 Top mistakes sellers make
• 25:56 What adds value before you list
• 28:53 Handling pricing disagreements with sellers
• 31:47 Buy now or wait for rates to drop?
• 34:45 Advice for new business owners
• 38:05 How to connect with Dania

In this episode, Mark Thompson, owner of Level Up Business Consulting and a member of the host's Faith-Driven Entrepreneur group, explains how epic stories can change the way we lead and sell. Every epic story has five characters: victims, villains, heroes, guides and extras. Mark argues that businesses should play the guide, not the hero, and help their customers become the hero of their own story.

He shares a personal story about his daughter's wedding, and how he nearly "hijacked" her hero's journey. He also explains why successful businesses hit a growth ceiling and how a fractional C-suite leader can help. He ends with how to reach him. His first consultations are free.

Key takeaways

• Level Up provides part-time (fractional) C-suite leaders in operations, sales, marketing, finance and procurement.
• Successful businesses often stall because the founder is spinning every plate and has reached their capacity.
• Epic stories have five characters: victim, villain, hero, guide and extra.
• In the Bible, and in Narnia, the guide is all-powerful but restrains that power so others can be the hero.
• Mark's wedding story shows the risk of making yourself the hero of someone else's story. You can end up as the villain.
• After that realization, Mark made thank-you calls to the people who had guided him.
• Most businesses cast themselves as the hero. Mark helps them shift to the guide role.
• Mark says stalled businesses often see 20, 40 or even 50 percent growth after this shift.
• The host and Mark discuss living a fully integrated life, with no separate church life and business life.

How to connect: Mark offers free initial consultations, calls and sit-downs. Connect via LinkedIn

Mentioned: Faith-Driven Entrepreneur group at Workspace, The Chronicles of Narnia, Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, and the host's first podcast with Maya on identity.

Franklin County LifeWise Academy

Host Donna Klein welcomes Kendal Wilkinson, the new Franklin County director for LifeWise Academy. Together, they explain what LifeWise is, how release-time religious instruction works, and what the Franklin County community can do to help the program get started.

Kendal shares how the program is designed to work alongside public schools, describes a LifeWise launch she witnessed in another county, and reflects on the personal journey that led her to this role.

Key topics

• Introducing Kendal Wilkinson and LifeWise Academy — Kendal shares her new role and introduces the LifeWise movement.
• How release-time instruction works — The discussion covers instruction during the school day, parental consent, off-campus locations, and private funding.
• Program logistics — Students may travel to a church, library, community center, fire department, or other host site during a non-core class period.
• Working with schools and families — Donna and Kendal describe LifeWise as a community collaboration intended to fit school schedules.
• Biblical teaching and character development — They discuss the curriculum’s Bible stories, memory verses, and emphasis on character and purpose.
• Kendal’s path to the role — Kendal talks about faith, surrender, life changes, and the relationships that led her to the position.
• A firsthand look at a LifeWise launch — She recounts seeing students welcomed, receiving Bibles, and taking part in a new program.
• What Franklin County needs — Kendal discusses building awareness, student interest, volunteers, board participation, and funding.
• Community movie night — The episode mentions a planned screening of Off School Property and an opportunity for people to learn more.

Timestamps

00:00 — Donna introduces Kendal and Franklin County LifeWise

01:18 — What LifeWise is and how release-time instruction works

02:17 — The three legal guidelines: funding, consent, and off-campus instruction

03:15 — One hour a week and the community-based model

04:13 — Why this matters for families who do not attend church

05:19 — Identity, purpose, and being defined by something bigger

06:19 — Supporting students alongside their education

07:36 — Why children are hungry for truth and hope

08:37 — Kendal’s testimony: calling, surrender, and God’s timing

11:23 — Moving to Louisburg and leaving a long-term job

12:52 — Relationships that led to the Franklin County director role

14:26 — Wanting hands-on experience with the program

16:31 — What a launch day looks like and how host sites work

18:01 — Children receive Bibles and begin in Genesis

19:16 — Curriculum, memory verses, and learning through videos

20:11 — Growth, shuttles, buses, and expanding student interest

21:39 — Trust raising, donations, and funding the mission

22:30 — Background checks and training for adults

23:28 — Building the board and seeking community support

24:21 — Pre-enrollment, giving, and why awareness matters

25:50 — Goal to launch the first Franklin County school

26:49 — How the community can pray and help

27:18 — Staying focused on the mission amid opposition

28:44 — Movie night and community next steps

29:10 — Off School Property movie-night details

30:09 — Closing remarks and thanks

Ways to support the effort

• Pre-enroll a student if your family is interested.
• Consider giving to support the program.
• Explore volunteering or serving on the board.
• Share information about LifeWise in Franklin County.
• Pray for the launch, funding, volunteers, and community support.

Identity, Healing, and Living Whole in Christ with Mayia Warren

Host Donna sits down with Mayia Warren, an independent gospel recording artist, community leader, keynote speaker, content creator, and foster care and disability advocate. Together, they explore identity in Christ, belonging, healing, and what it means to live as a whole person rather than compartmentalizing life’s difficult experiences.Mayia shares how albinism, legal blindness, chronic illness, and personal hardship have shaped her story. She talks about the importance of faith, community, and being honest about pain. Donna also shares from her own experience, making space for a candid conversation about shame, trauma, and the ways the past can affect daily life.

Timestamps

00:00 – Studio warmup and welcome to Mayia Warren
 00:21 – Donna introduces Mayia and shares why she invited her
 00:50 – Mayia introduces herself as a missional artist
 01:18 – Serving across churches, bars, breweries, and festivals
 02:15 – Why identity matters for healing and calling
 03:09 – The idea of a fractured self and the need for wholeness
 04:05 – Faith in Jesus and the search for belonging
 05:02 – Learning about albinism and questioning her worth
 06:29 – Community, spiritual adoption, and being fully known
 07:56 – Belonging and becoming
 09:51 – Moving beyond personal healing to serve others
 11:16 – Chronic pain, isolation, and focusing on suffering
 12:10 – Showing up despite uncertainty and health challenges
 13:10 – Finding comfort in God and support in community
 14:05 – Sharing faith naturally in everyday conversations
 14:59 – Acts 17:28 and living, moving, and being in God
 15:54 – How trauma can affect communication, work, and relationships
 17:23 – Responding to hard moments with hope
 18:22 – What oculocutaneous albinism is
 19:41 – Legal blindness and feeling different growing up
 21:31 – A school social worker recognizes Mayia’s advocacy
 22:28 – Moving from educating people to walking alongside them
 23:24 – Donna shares about her own experiences of rejection and abuse
 26:32 – Finding identity and belonging in Christ
 27:32 – Recognizing old abandonment wounds and choosing how to respond
 28:01 – Mayia shares her experience of abuse, perfectionism, and shame
 29:28 – Confession, change, and releasing shame
 30:52 – Community and healing through being heard
 31:50 – Learning to bring your whole self
 33:13 – Vulnerability, shame, and sharing your story
 34:36 – Reconciling painful experiences with faith
 35:33 – Choosing Christlikeness over comparison
 37:19 – Faith and imperfect people in Scripture
 39:17 – Faith-driven entrepreneurship and measuring impact
 40:42 – Business, identity, and the possibility of pivoting
 42:30 – Mayia’s change of direction from physical therapy to advocacy and music
 43:27 – Upcoming performances and speaking appearances
 44:23 – Closing remarks

Notable quotes

“If we stop belonging, we stop becoming.”

“Your story doesn’t belong to you.”

“Be a thermostat instead of a thermometer.”

Upcoming appearances mentioned

• October 17 – North Carolina State Fair
• October 23–24 – Songs That Speak conference in Pleasant Garden, North Carolina
• First week of November – Flavor Fest in Tampa, Florida

James Hutson on Ninja Realty, poverty, and building a team that lasts

James Hutson shares how his upbringing in Henderson, North Carolina, shaped his work ethic and his mission to use real estate to help himself, his family, and his community move beyond poverty. He discusses the mindset behind Ninja Realty, how he supports and trains agents, and why he believes humility, trust, and long-term thinking matter in business.

From steaming lobsters while studying for his real estate exam to growing a multi-division real estate business, James offers lessons for agents, entrepreneurs, buyers, and sellers.

In this episode

• James reflects on growing up with humble beginnings and how that shaped his determination.
• He explains how real estate became his path out of poverty.
• He shares the story of failing his first real estate exam by one point—and returning to pass with a perfect score.
• He explains why he changed the company name from the James Hutson Group to Ninja Realty.
• He discusses what he looks for in agents and the 54 value propositions he built around the support he wished he’d had.
• He introduces Ninja Commercial and Ninja Dirt, and explains how the company serves clients across residential, commercial, and rural land markets.
• He describes how Ninja Realty trains agents to guide clients and negotiate effectively.
• He shares his perspective on seasonal selling windows, interest rates, and making a property stand out online.
• He explains the enduring importance of being known, liked, and trusted.
• He offers entrepreneurs a direct challenge: stop overplanning and start taking action.

Timestamps

00:00 — Introducing James Hutson and Ninja Realty

01:01 — Growing up with humble beginnings in Henderson

02:01 — Real estate as a way out of poverty

02:58 — Discovering real estate through a family listing

03:26 — Failing the exam, studying, and trying again

04:25 — Getting his first real estate job at 19

05:22 — Redefining success as helping others escape poverty

06:29 — Why he took his name off the company

08:26 — What James looks for when hiring agents

09:22 — Supporting agents with 54 value propositions

10:20 — Ninja Realty’s growth plans

11:46 — What Ninja Commercial does

13:09 — Introducing Ninja Dirt and land listings

14:35 — What makes Ninja Realty different

16:01 — Ninja Realty’s related businesses and client services

18:04 — Training agents to advise and execute

20:30 — The best time of year to sell a home

21:49 — Should buyers wait for interest rates to drop?

23:17 — Why a home’s online presentation matters

25:33 — The lasting value of know, like, and trust

27:28 — Entrepreneurial advice: stop overplanning

28:46 — James’s approach to motivation and learning

29:42 — How clients find Ninja Realty

30:36 — How to contact James and closing remarks

Memorable takeaways

• “Ego is not your amigo.”
• “Marry the price, date the rate.”
• Build a business that can outlive its founder.
• Stop planning indefinitely and take the next step.

Discover what defines a luxury home in the Raleigh area, how the market for luxury properties is evolving, and why personalized client service remains at the core of Steve Wall's approach. Gain expert tips on navigating high-end real estate and what to consider when investing in luxury homes.

Main Topics:

• Defining 'Luxury' in Raleigh Real Estate
• Trends and Market Dynamics in Luxury Homes
• Key Considerations for Luxury Home Buyers and Builders
• The Role of Technology and Service in Luxury Real Estate
• Entrepreneurship and Success in Real Estate Industry

In this episode:

• Steve Wall explains his personal definition of luxury homes, emphasizing location, finishes, and livability over price alone
• Details how Raleigh's luxury market is influenced by new construction, historical homes, and off-market opportunities
• Discusses the importance of builder reputation, warranty, and post-sale service in luxury home investments
• Shares insight into market trends, including the impact of new developers and changing buyer leverage
• Highlights the value of having trusted resources and a dedicated team for high-end property transactions
• Offers advice for entrepreneurs, emphasizing perseverance, surrounding oneself with experts, and focusing on client results

Time Stamps

• 00:53 — Introduction to Steve Wall and Wall Real Estate Group
• 01:23 — Steve’s background and how he entered real estate
• 03:37 — Building a boutique luxury real estate business
• 06:13 — What defines a luxury home in Raleigh
• 08:17 — Luxury builders, construction quality, and long-term value
• 10:32 — Why buyers benefit from expert guidance during luxury builds
• 12:13 — Where luxury homes are located in the Raleigh area
• 16:04 — Private listings and off-market luxury properties
• 17:10 — How long luxury homes are staying on the market
• 18:10 — New construction vs. luxury resale homes
• 19:42 — What drives demand for luxury homes in Raleigh
• 21:17 — Working with high-profile clients and maintaining discretion
• 22:25 — Hidden costs of owning a luxury home
• 23:57 — Why “home” and “luxury” are personal definitions
• 25:31 — Steve’s own home and what matters most to him
• 26:41 — Advice for entrepreneurs: “burn the boats”
• 30:44 — Building a business without losing the personal touch
• 33:31 — Working with family in the business
• 37:27 — Knowing your ideal client while still serving people well
• 39:03 — How to contact Steve Wall
• 40:08 — Using relationships and resources to add value
• 41:15 — Steve’s hobbies, work ethic, and early mornings
• 43:24 — Final advice and closing thoughts

A note on service: Steve emphasizes the importance of trust, discretion, and personalized attention in high-end real estate, advocating for a client-centric approach that combines expert knowledge with a dedicated team.

Join us for an engaging conversation with real estate expert and AI instructor Brian Pate. Discover practical tips for homebuyers, negotiate like a pro, and explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the real estate industry—all delivered with clear, actionable advice.

Key topics covered:

• How buyers should prepare financially before shopping for a home
• The importance of experience versus longevity in real estate agents
• Negotiation strategies that actually work (including a legendary house deal story)
• Myths vs. realities of HGTV-style remodeling shows
• The current state and future of AI in real estate and business
• Using AI tools for marketing, content creation, and efficiency
• Practical steps to organize and scale your small business with technology
• Navigating the emotional side of real estate transactions
• Building a personal brand in the digital age via Google and social media
• Tips for entrepreneurs on creating systems and protecting business knowledge

Timestamps:

• (00:00) – Welcome and podcast intro
• (01:15) – Brian's background: from DJing to real estate
• (07:34) – Essential steps for homebuyers: getting pre-approved
• (09:26) – Why market timing is a myth in real estate investing
• (11:50) – Experience matters more than years in the business
• (12:45) – When to walk away from a real estate deal
• (15:03) – Managing emotional buying decisions
• (16:30) – Real estate market trends domestically and locally
• (18:43) – The story of a listing negotiation gone wild
• (21:07) – Crafting offers based on seller priorities
• (23:27) – The truth about HGTV remodel shows
• (25:14) – How media creates unrealistic expectations
• (27:49) – Brian’s AI education programs for real estate professionals
• (34:09) – How different generations are adopting AI
• (36:55) – Practical AI applications in marketing and analysis
• (41:10) – Optimizing online visibility with Google and social media
• (43:50) – Building small, scalable businesses with AI
• (52:12) – Advice for young entrepreneurs: understanding taxes and legal setup
• (54:34) – Systemizing your business for growth
• (55:33) – The importance of proper legal and tax planning
• (56:30) – How to connect with Brian and explore his training offerings
• (58:14) – Final thoughts and closing

Unlocking Affordable Housing: An Interview with Sean Ade about Manufactured Homes in North Carolina

In this episode, Grant and Donna sit down with Sean Ade to discuss innovative approaches to solving the housing crisis through manufactured housing. Learn about land home packages, changing perceptions of double-wides, and the growth opportunities in Franklin County, NC.

Main Topics:

• The evolution and modern upgrades of manufactured homes
• How land home packages are providing affordable options in North Carolina
• Strategies for navigating zoning and market growth in rural areas
• The competitive landscape, including industry players like Clayton Homes
• Entrepreneurial advice: Focus, industry passion, and avoiding shiny object syndrome
• Resources for prospective buyers and investors

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and behind-the-scenes of the podcast setup 01:02 - Discussing technical challenges with audio clarity 02:19 - How Sean ensures quality audio and setup tips 04:15 - Discovering Sean's business model in manufactured housing 06:36 - Sean's background and motivation for affordable housing solutions 08:19 - The high cost of traditional homes in Wake County and market gaps 09:02 - Details on land home package projects and rural housing initiatives 10:48 - The design and quality upgrades of modern manufactured homes 12:41 - Longevity, durability, and interior updates of manufactured homes 13:53 - Customization options and size potential for double-wides 15:12 - Regional market growth and zoning considerations 16:15 - Competition insights: Clayton Homes and other dealers 17:20 - Sean's virtual office setup and showroom showcases 18:26 - Connecting with Sean for collaboration or purchase inquiries 19:27 - Entrepreneurial advice: Focus, passion, and avoiding distractions 21:36 - Opportunities for collaboration between real estate and local businesses 22:33 - Closing remarks and gratitude

Summary-

In this episode of the Workspace Podcast, host Grant Paxton interviews Jasmine Zavala, a candidate for the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners. They discuss Jasmine's journey from growing up in Wake Forest to her current campaign, her passion for education and community involvement, and her vision for local government. Jasmine shares insights into her background in business and public administration, her work with nonprofits, and her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.

Keywords

Wake Forest, Jasmine Zavala, local government, community involvement, education, nonprofits, public administration, campaign, Wake Forest Board of Commissioners, Grant Paxton

Takeaways

• Jasmine Zavala is running for the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners.
• She has a strong background in business and public administration.
• Jasmine is passionate about education and community involvement.
• She emphasizes the importance of nonprofits in supporting government efforts.
• Jasmine's campaign focuses on data, equity, and heart.
• She believes in the power of diverse voices in leadership.
• Jasmine advocates for more women in leadership roles.
• She highlights the role of local government in community development.
• Jasmine shares her personal journey and growth through the campaign.
• She encourages community engagement and participation in local elections.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Background
• 00:00:00 Jasmine's Journey and Campaign
• 00:00:00 Community Involvement and Nonprofits
• 00:00:00 Education and Local Government
• 00:00:01 Vision for Wake Forest

Summary-

In this episode, Grant Paxton interviews Richie Veverka, the executive director of the Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. They discuss Richie's journey from owning Kona Ice franchises to leading the Chamber, highlighting his experiences in business advocacy, community building, and local economic development.

Takeaways

• Richie Veverka transitioned from owning Kona Ice franchises to leading the Chamber of Commerce.
• The Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization, not a government entity.
• Richie emphasizes the importance of community building and local economic development.
• The Chamber hosts events like 'Deck the Halls' to support local vendors.
• Richie shares insights on using AI tools for business efficiency.
• The Chamber helps businesses with networking and promotional opportunities.
• Richie discusses the growth and development in Franklin County.
• The Chamber's role includes advocating for businesses and providing resources.
• Richie highlights the challenges and rewards of running a business.
• The episode concludes with a focus on upcoming Chamber events.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
• 00:03:00 Richie's Journey from Kona Ice
• 00:06:00 Chamber of Commerce Overview
• 00:09:00 Community Building and Events
• 00:12:00 Using AI in Business
• 00:15:00 Networking and Promotion
• 00:18:00 Franklin County Growth
• 00:21:00 Business Advocacy and Resources
• 00:24:00 Challenges and Rewards of Business
• 00:27:00 Conclusion and Upcoming Events