Deeds of Trust

In this episode of Deeds of Trust, host Steve McDonald sits down with Marc Robertz-Schwartz, founder of Red Apples Media and author of The Red Apples Way, for an insightful conversation about leadership, core values, relationships, and building a business with purpose.Together, they explore Marc’s journey from television and advertising to entrepreneurship, the lessons he learned while building Red Apples Media, and how nine core values became the foundation for his approach to business, accountability, company culture, and client relationships. They also discuss the importance of building trust beyond the transaction, finding the balance between passion and expectations, and turning values into something that truly becomes part of an organization’s DNA.Whether you’re a REALTOR®, business owner, leader, or simply looking for ways to grow with purpose, tune in for a thoughtful conversation about values, relationships, leadership, and what it takes to build a business that lasts.

In this special episode of Deeds of Trust, host Steve McDonald and guest host President Mark Dyer sit down with Marilyn Hottle and Glenn Tyre for an inspiring, deep-dive conversation into the roots and legacy of the REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties.Together, they take a look back at where it all began—sharing their personal starts in the real estate industry, their journeys within RALSC, the pivotal role of women in shaping our profession, the historic board mergers that unified our region, and how our local market has transformed over time.Whether you're a long-standing member or new to the industry, tune in for a unique look at the history, leaders, and milestones that built our association into what it is today.

In this episode of Deeds of Trust, we sit down with Tiffany Whitley, REALTOR® and Interior Designer, to explore the unique intersection of design and real estate. Tiffany shares her journey from studying at the New York Institute of Art & Design to building a successful career that combines her passion for creating beautiful spaces with helping clients achieve their real estate goals.Throughout the conversation, Tiffany discusses how her background in interior design influences her approach as a REALTOR®, the role presentation and staging play in today's market, and the value of understanding both the aesthetic and practical aspects of a home. She also shares insights into building a personal brand, establishing credibility in a competitive industry, and adapting to the evolving needs of clients.From her early education and career experiences to the lessons she's learned along the way, Tiffany offers valuable perspectives for REALTORS®, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the connection between design, branding, and real estate success.Tune in for an engaging conversation about creativity, business, and the skills that help turn houses into homes—and clients into lifelong advocates.

In this episode of Deeds of Trust, we sit down with Morgan Wilson, Assistant City Manager, and Shari Holt, City Planner, for an inside look at the current and future vision for Bushnell. From upcoming growth and development plans to the importance of community involvement, this conversation offers valuable insight into how city planning impacts real estate and the people who call Bushnell home.They also discuss why building relationships with your local city and county planners, managers, and officials can make a real difference when helping clients navigate growth, development, and community resources.Whether you’re a REALTOR®, business professional, investor, or community member, this episode is packed with insight on the future of Bushnell and the role collaboration plays in shaping strong communities.

In this episode of Deeds of Trust, Steve sits down with 2025 RALSC Good Neighbor Award winner Kristie Baumgartner for a conversation that goes far beyond real estate.Kristie shares the inspiration behind her Paws & Claws Adopt-a-thon and how her passion for helping animals has grown into meaningful community impact. From organizing adoption efforts to connecting with local families, her work is a reminder that REALTORS® play an important role not just in housing, but in strengthening the communities they serve.The episode also offers a glimpse into Kristie’s life behind the scenes—balancing a busy real estate career with being a mom, all while staying committed to causes close to her heart.It’s a genuine and inspiring conversation about service, connection, and what it truly means to be a Good Neighbor.

Spreading the Love: Community Over CompetitionIn this Season 3 premiere episode of Deeds of Trust, host Steve McDonald sits down with Brittany Knight and Emily Conte to talk about the inspiration behind the Spread the Love Peanut Butter & Jelly Food Drive and the deeper purpose driving it forward.What began as a simple idea — collecting peanut butter and jelly for local families — has grown into a powerful example of collaboration in action. Brittany and Emily share the real need they saw in the community, what motivated them to step up, and how choosing “Community Over Competition” has helped unite REALTORS®, businesses, and neighbors around a shared mission.Listeners will hear how service creates connection, how small acts can make a big impact, and why putting community first strengthens both relationships and results.💜 Collaboration. Compassion. Community. Tune in for a conversation that reminds us why giving back matters.

Money Matters: CPA Tax Talk for REALTORS®In this episode, host Steve McDonald sits down with Denise Calderon, a respected Certified Public Accountant and community leader with more than 25 years of experience in tax strategy, nonprofit finance, and small business advising.From building an award-winning CPA firm to serving as a Planning & Zoning Commissioner in Minneola, she shares how her journey has been shaped by a commitment to integrity, service, and practical leadership. Listeners will hear how she helps clients not just file returns but truly understand and take control of their financial lives.She also opens up about stepping into public service as a candidate for mayor, offering a unique perspective on how financial literacy, ethics, and community leadership intersect to build stronger neighborhoods.📊 Strategy. Service. Impact. Tune in now for a conversation that blends financial wisdom with real community vision.

Charting the Course: Leadership, Vision, and the Florida Waterway CleanupIn this episode, host Steve McDonald sits down with Jeff Fagan, President of StellarMLS and driving force behind the Cleanup Florida Waterways initiative.From his formative years at Virginia Tech to leading one of the largest MLS organizations in the country, Jeff shares how his journey shaped his leadership style and long-term vision for the real estate industry. He also offers valuable insight into the current market landscape, and how collaboration and innovation are key to navigating what’s ahead.Plus, Jeff opens up about his passion project — Cleanup Florida Waterways — and how a simple idea grew into a powerful movement across the state, uniting REALTORS®, community leaders, and volunteers in the fight for Florida’s environmental future.🌊 Leadership. Legacy. Purpose. Tune in now for an inspiring and forward-thinking conversation.

Tune in as host Steve McDonald and special guest host Mark Dyer, RALSC President-Elect, sit down with Brittney Boscana—2024 RALSC Good Neighbor Award recipient and the inspiring force behind Lake Quest, a community event supporting Lake Cares Food Pantry.In this heartfelt episode, Brittney shares how her Lake County roots shaped her passion for service, the story behind Lake Quest, and what drives her to make a lasting impact.Listen now and discover how one REALTOR® is making waves in the community—one quest at a time.

In this episode, host Steve McDonald sits down with two powerhouse women whose stories are deeply woven into the fabric of Lake and Sumter Counties—Lori Davis and Shayna Grunewald.From childhood memories growing up in the heart of our communities to building a thriving home healthcare business, Lori and Shayna open up about what it means to serve, uplift, and stay connected to your roots. We also dive into their own podcast journey—why they started it, how they keep it real, and what fuels their mission to make a difference beyond the microphone.This episode is packed with laughter, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at two women who embody trust, compassion, and local pride. Whether you're a REALTOR®, a small business owner, or just someone who loves a good story, this one’s for you.Tune in now and get inspired by the voices shaping our community!