Why Small-Town America Gets Left Behind After Disasters

Personal safety isn’t just for law enforcement, it’s essential for everyday life, too! In this episode, former Secret Service agent Scott Bryson joins us to share real-world tactics for staying safe on the job. With 25+ years of experience, Scott reveals how to think ahead, read danger, and stay in control. Listen in and learn how to protect yourself without living in fear.   Key takeaways to listen for The “triangle tactic” for loading groceries safely How to create a safety plan when meeting strangers for work Why distance is your best friend in any physical threat scenario How to read body language and spot red flags early Smart, simple tools you can carry for defense   Resources mentioned in this episode Identity Verification & Risk Assessment Tool For Real Estate   About Scott Bryson Scott is a retired Secret Service agent with over 25 years in law enforcement, including local and federal service. He’s the host of the Beyond the Service podcast and a passionate advocate for personal safety, especially for professionals in public-facing roles like real estate. With a direct, relatable style, Scott teaches others how to stay alert, assess risk, and walk away with confidence.   Connect with Scott Podcast: Scott Bryson: Beyond The Service Podcast Website: Scott Bryson Beyond The Service TikTok: @scottbrysonbts Instagram: @scottbrysonbts X: @scottbrysonbts YouTube: Scott Bryson: Beyond the Service   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.  

What does it really take to buy a home in New York City? Veteran broker Lisa Lippman pulls back the curtain on Manhattan’s high-stakes residential real estate market - from $17M co-ops to hidden boardroom politics. In this episode, we dig into how deals get done in the city that never sleeps, what buyers need to know, and the personal connections that make it all matter.   Key takeaways to listen for What makes co-ops in NYC so complicated and why buyers still want them How Lisa turned Zoom showings during the pandemic into lasting friendships The critical difference between co-ops and condos NYC real estate culture vs. everywhere else Why real estate still offers unmatched flexibility for working moms   Resources mentioned in this episode StreetEasy   About Lisa Lippman Lisa Lippman is the #1 broker at Brown Harris Stevens for nine consecutive years and a leading force in Manhattan real estate. With over 28 years of experience, she specializes in luxury co-ops, condos, and townhomes, delivering expert guidance with discretion and care. Known for her sharp marketing, deep market knowledge, and unmatched attention to detail, Lisa serves high-end buyers, sellers, developers, and sponsors alike.   Connect with Lisa LinkedIn: Lisa Lippman - Brown Harris Stevens Instagram: @lisaklippman Email: [email protected] Number: 212-805-3069   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Most people play it safe in real estate, but Tonya Murfin and Angie Mullings did the opposite. In this episode, they join Leigh Brown to share how stepping outside the norm led to unexpected partnership, personal growth, and a podcast that’s changing conversations. Hit play to hear what happens when you stop competing and start showing up real.   Key takeaways to listen for How authentic leadership starts with transparency The surprising emotional aftermath of board service Why Tonya and Angie started their podcast, and how it changed their relationship Ways mentorship, legacy, and community make a long-term impact in real estate The power of saying “yes” to leadership, even when the timing isn’t perfect   Resources mentioned in this episode Women's Council of REALTORS® National Association of REALTORS® NC REALTORS®   About Angie Mullings and Tonya Murfin Tonya Murfin is a real estate broker-owner and co-host of the Simply Authentic podcast. Known for her deep commitment to board service and REALTOR® leadership, she brings transparency, humor, and heart to every conversation, whether she’s mentoring new agents or challenging the status quo.   Angie Mullings is a broker-owner, industry leader, and co-host of the Simply Authentic podcast. With a passion for collaboration and service, she helps elevate the real estate profession through mentorship, authenticity, and a belief that there’s room at the table for everyone.   Connect with Angie and Tonya Facebook: Simply Authentic Podcast Instagram: @simplyauthenticpodcast YouTube: Simply Authentic Podcast Email: [email protected] | [email protected]   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Homelessness isn’t just about lacking a roof, it’s about losing connection, dignity, and community. In this episode, Kent Redding shares the powerful story of Community First Village, a privately funded neighborhood in Austin, TX, that’s redefining how we care for our neighbors on the margins. With tiny homes, job training, mental health services, and deep personal relationships, it’s a model rooted in love and built to last. Listen now to learn how you can be part of the solution!   Key takeaways to listen for Why homelessness is more about the loss of community than the lack of shelter How Community First Village provides sustainable housing without government funding The dignity-driven design behind rent, job training, and personal responsibility Why volunteer engagement and one-on-one relationships are the secret sauce How REALTORS® and small businesses can replicate this model anywhere   Resources mentioned in this episode Mobile Loaves & Fishes Community First! Village - Mobile Loaves & Fishes ABoR Foundation | Unlock MLS   About Kent Redding Kent Redding's passion for real estate shines through in every transaction he oversees. As an industry leader with years of experience, Kent serves as incoming Austin Board of Realtors President Elect 2024. He has been consistently recognized for his exceptional service, deep knowledge of the Austin real estate market, and holds an unwavering commitment to his clients and community. His accolades, testimonials, and community presence serve as a testament to his dedication and service.   Connect with Kent Website: www.CallKent.com LinkedIn: Kent Redding Instagram: @kentreddinggroup Facebook: Kent Redding Email: [email protected] Phone Number: 512.797.5737   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

What’s the real value of a home and who gets to decide? Joining us this episode are Bill Whitaker and Hamp Thomas for a deep dive into the surprisingly complex world of square footage, floor plans, and property valuation. From legal liabilities to LiDAR tech, this episode pulls back the curtain on how real estate professionals can either protect or endanger their clients.   Key takeaways to listen for Why agents (not tax records) are responsible for square footage accuracy How LiDAR technology is changing the way homes are measured What “ANSI standards” mean for buyers, sellers, and appraisers The legal and financial risks of skipping professional floor plans Why a national vocabulary for home size reporting is urgently needed   Resources mentioned in this episode RPR CubiCasa American National Standards Institute Matterport NCREC Bulletins National Association of REALTORS® Realtor.com   About Bill Whitaker and Hamp Thomas Bill Whitaker is the founder of RAWtape Real Estate Measuring and Photography, LLC and RAWtape Real Estate Coaching and Training. A licensed Realtor in the Carolinas since 2003 and Broker-in-Charge of Whitaker and Associates Real Estate, he brings over 20 years of experience in real estate and financial services. A U.S. Air Force veteran and USC-Upstate graduate, Bill also holds a Home Measurement Specialist certification and offers free notary services to REALTORS®, veterans, teachers, and first responders.   Hamp Thomas is a seasoned real estate appraiser, educator, and author based in Whispering Pines, North Carolina. With decades of experience in both real estate and appraisal, he is best known for his expertise in home measurement and his advocacy for standardized square footage practices. Hamp is the creator of the Home Measurement Specialist program and a longtime instructor on ANSI standards, helping agents and appraisers nationwide improve accuracy, protect consumers, and elevate industry professionalism.   Connect with Bill and Hamp Website: RAWtape Real Estate Measuring and Photography | Appraiser eLearning Email: [email protected] | [email protected] Contact Number: 803.412.8209 | (910) 603-2690   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Small towns don’t just recover slower after disaster—they’re often forgotten altogether. In this episode, Leigh Brown exposes the deep inequalities she’s witnessed firsthand in Western North Carolina’s long road to recovery. From government red tape to rising property taxes, this is a raw look at what happens when working-class communities are pushed to the margins.   Key takeaways to listen for Why disaster relief often favors urban areas over rural ones The hidden financial toll of rebuilding for low-income, generational homeowners How property tax hikes after disaster can force people off their land The overlooked role of elitism in disaster planning and recovery Why preserving small-town economies and culture is essential to America’s future   Resources mentioned in this episode American Red Cross Samaritan's Purse   Are you ready to make a difference? Go to https://www.patriotrelief.org to learn more.   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

VA loans are faster, smarter, and more competitive than ever, so why are real estate pros still missing the mark? John Bell III, head of the VA Home Loan Program, joins us to drop major updates, debunk industry myths, and explain why VA buyers are winning in today’s market. If you serve Veterans or want to dominate the real estate game in 2025, this episode is for you!   Key takeaways to listen for Why 2025 is the strongest year yet for VA Home Loan volume How the VA’s digital platform is enabling agents to advocate for Veterans Ways the VA completes appraisals in under 7 business days Who qualifies for VA loans in 2025? Where to get the VA Home Loan Toolkit every pro should be using   Resources mentioned in this episode VA Home Loans Real Estate Professionals VA Home Loan Toolkit VA Home Loan Guidance on Natural Disasters Rebuilding Hope: How the VA Supports Veterans After Disasters – A Conversation with John Bell Navigating VA Loan Changes: Expert Insights from John Bell III What You Need To Know About VA Home Loans RIGHT NOW with John Bell III   Find direct support through the VA Loan Guaranty Service, whether you're a Veteran, agent, or lender. Submit a ticket via https://benefits.va.gov/HOMELOANS/contact.asp or call their toll-free line for fast, reliable answers.   About John Bell IIIJohn Bell III began serving as Executive Director of the Loan Guaranty Service on June 21, 2022. He is responsible for delivering VA Home Loan Benefits to his fellow Veterans. Mr. Bell has extensive mortgage industry experience, having served in leadership roles with nationwide lenders for over 20 years before starting his career with the VA in 2010. Mr. Bell's top priorities are ensuring that VA home loan benefits are the product of choice for Veterans and that Loan Guaranty is the VA program of choice for his 900 talented staff.   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Crazy Sh*t in Real Estate just got a glow-up - welcome to Real Talk with Leigh Brown! From deals that go off the rails to lessons you didn’t see coming, Leigh brings you unfiltered conversations with pros who’ve been deep in the trenches. Same wild stories. Same hard-earned wisdom. Same bold personality. Just with a name that’s a little easier to say out loud. Subscribe now to keep hearing the stories real estate pros talk about behind closed doors.   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.   Sponsors "You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching Program Hey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!   🔗 https://answers.realestate/

He left without telling anyone and still came out on top. In this episode, Bob Percesepe shares the wild story behind his unexpected real estate reset and the systems that helped him rebuild from scratch. From tough calls to smart CRM plays, it’s equal parts strategy and survival. Press play if you're ready to restart, scale, or shake things up.   Key takeaways to listen for How Bob rebuilt his real estate business from scratch in a new state The system behind listing 76 properties in one year Why your CRM must be clean, personal, and saleable How REALTOR® advocacy creates real local impact A wild relocation story that started with a snowstorm and a tuxedo   Resources mentioned in this episode NC REALTORS® Top Producer Wise Agent Follow Up Boss   About Bob PercesepeBob is a seasoned real estate broker with over 25 years of experience in New York and coastal North Carolina. He leads Blue Chip Real Estate, a boutique firm known for high-touch service, strategic pricing, and CRM-driven referral systems. A certified Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and graduate of the Floyd Wickman Master Sales Academy, Bob combines data, discipline, and deep industry knowledge to help clients and agents succeed. He’s a published author, former REALTOR® of the Year, and active advocate for property rights. Bob is known for his "get by giving" philosophy and passion for raising the industry bar. Connect with Bob Email: [email protected] Website: Blue Chip Real Estate | Homelendia Mortgage Facebook: Blue Chip Real Estate Contact Number: 910-854-0800 (Direct) | 910-795-4814 (Fax) Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.   Sponsors"You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did! 🔗 https://answers.realestate/

Most real estate agents don’t make it past their first five years, and Chris Giannos is on a mission to change that. In this episode, he reveals how his new platform is helping brokerages rethink recruiting, onboarding, and training to keep agents in the game. Plus, stay tuned for the wild story of how one careless comment during a showing torpedoed a $2 million deal. If you're tired of the old-school grind or looking to build a stronger team, this conversation is for you.   Key takeaways to listen for What happens when one broker tries to manage 250 agents? The rookie mistake that cost an agent a $2M deal Why most new agents fail and ways to avoid it How brokers are quietly losing top talent and don’t even know it The surprising reason Zillow's strategy might help small brokerages   Resources mentioned in this episode What is Flex? - Zillow Premier Agent Greenhouse Support ADP Marketplace   About Chris GiannosChris is the co-founder and CEO of Humaniz, a platform designed to streamline agent recruiting and onboarding in real estate. With a background that includes building and managing a 250-agent brokerage in Southern California and early experience in sales at Zillow, Chris brings deep industry insight into team growth, agent training, and real estate operations. Now based in Dallas, he’s focused on raising the bar in the industry by helping brokerages scale smarter and improve agent performance through better systems.   Connect with Chris Website: Humaniz LinkedIn: Chris Giannos Instagram: @chris.giannos | @humaniz.io Email: [email protected] Connect with LeighPlease subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.   Sponsors "You Ask. Leigh Answers." Your Affordable Coaching ProgramHey there, real estate pros! Are you ready for some more Leigh Brown wisdom in your life? Then don't miss out on my brand-new program, "You Ask. Leigh Answers." It's your exclusive gateway to the insights and advice you need to supercharge your real estate business. With "You Ask. Leigh Answers." you get Direct Access to Leigh Brown, directly! Expert Coaching, Community Connection, and Extensive Resources. Whether listening to this on the go or watching at home, sign up today at Answers.RealEstate and take your business to the next level. Trust me, you'll be glad you did! 🔗 https://answers.realestate/