Podcasts by Category
Join us for Hustle Humbly where we hope you will build the confidence to find your voice and your way to a successful real estate business and beyond. Listen in as Alissa & Katy, two top producing Realtors, talk about fostering community over competition while navigating the often times cutthroat real estate industry. With over 1000 homes sold between them and 13 and 19 years each in the business, they have seen it first hand. Deep dive into conversations and interviews about mindset and best practices with real life stories mixed in. The goal of Hustle Humbly is to reach out and encourage Realtors and business people alike to stop comparing themselves and start embracing their own strengths.
- 419 - 373: The Types of Burnout Every Realtor Feels
This week we're doing a little podcast therapy of our own, because burnout comes for all of us. We started this episode because we needed it, and if we're honest, we figured a lot of you needed it too. So instead of just handing you a list of quick fixes, we decided to do the harder thing first: name it. Burnout, it seems, can come at us for a lot of reasons.
We're breaking burnout down two ways. First by where you are in your career: seasoned agent, new agent, or part timer. Then by the universal types that don't care about your years in the business at all: market related, personality based and situational. We even confess our own personal "burnout cocktails" so you know you're not alone.
This one is part pep talk, part permission slip. You don't have to quit. You just have to learn to rest.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why we're starting with "name it to tame it" instead of jumping straight to tips
Seasoned agent burnout: seeing the process and consumer get more difficult
New agent burnout: rejection, comparison, and the overwhelm of trying to learn everything at once
Part time agent burnout: the honest conversation about whether your goals actually match the effort you're able to give
Market related burnout: rising interest rates, affordability struggles, and a real client story about a buyer's max budget dropping almost overnight
Feast or famine burnout: the cycle of busy to crickets to panic, and why real estate paychecks are always "future" money
Comparison driven burnout and why social media numbers are just a vanity metric
Systems failure burnout: chasing shiny new tools instead of building repeatable systems
Financial stress burnout, and why we think it's the most dangerous type of all
Practical ways to rest without quitting
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You have to name it to tame it." -Dr. Daniel Siegel
"Learn to rest, not to quit." -John Greenleaf Whittier
"Don't kill yourself for a job that would replace you in a week." -Alissa
"The goalposts do continually move. No matter how well you do, you're constantly climbing the mountain, and you're never at the top." -Katy
"Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change." -serenity prayer
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 3: Mindset Meltdown (hustlehumblypodcast.com/3)
Agent Systems 101 (agentsystems101.com)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 28 Sep 2026 - 48min - 418 - 372: How to Give Your Clients a 5-Star Experience
What does Trader Joe's know that most Realtors don't?
We went down a rabbit hole this week pulling data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index and the results surprised us. We also sourced stories from Trader Joe's, Chick-fil-A, and Disney. So we started asking, what do these brands actually do that makes people love them so much, and how does that apply to our real estate businesses?
Turns out it's not fancy. It's not expensive. It's mastering the basics and doing them the same way every single time. As AI takes over more of the automated, robotic parts of this business, being the most human Realtor in the room is about to become your biggest competitive advantage. We're talking about the difference between delivering what you promised and giving someone an actual experience, and why so many agents skip straight to the closing gift instead of doing the boring, consistent work in the middle of the transaction.
We share real stories, including a seller who wanted to pull her overpriced listing after two weeks with no showings, a buyer family with two kids under five who needed way more than an MLS printout, and a Hustle Humbly Community member whose vendor list mailer turned a football magnet into something people actually looked forward to getting.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
What the American Customer Satisfaction Index says about our favorite businesses
Why the two questions Trader Joe's cashiers always ask are designed to get you talking
Why being the most human Realtor is about to matter more than ever as AI use increases
Why simpler, less produced content (a phone video walking through a house) beats a glossy production every time
A real story about sending a video instead of a text when a seller wanted to pull her listing
Why handwritten notes with a sheet of stickers slipped inside get remembered
The "nervous gift" basket built for a buyer family touring ten houses with two little kids
Why listening for small clues, like an offhand comment about a favorite baseball team, matters more than a big gesture
What goes in a pre-listing gift basket to help sellers actually prep for showings
Why looking at 27 houses is a customer service failure, not a badge of honor
The attract, convert, deliver framework and why most agents skip straight to marketing without delivering
A Hustle Humbly Community member's genius vendor list mailer campaign
Which industries scored the worst on the customer satisfaction index (hint: you already know)
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"The best thing we can do for customer service is our job." Katy
"It's free to be transparent, responsive, to listen, to have urgency." Katy
"The customer experience isn't about you. It's about that person." Alissa
"You can't do the fancy, fun, frilly stuff if your clients haven't heard from you in three days." Alissa
"Your face and your voice being part of that transaction is the thing that's you, that no one can take away from you. That's what sets you apart." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI)
Episode 370: Whatever Your Business Is, The Fundamentals Are The Same (hustlehumblypodcast.com/370)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Be The One by Matrika
Mon, 21 Sep 2026 - 52min - 417 - 371: Property Safety: When Your Listing Gets Robbed
It's Realtor Safety Month, and this year we're taking a different angle: property safety.
We've covered personal safety plenty of times before (episodes 317, 216, 161, 112, and 6 & 7 with Carl Carter), but this time Alissa is sharing a story straight from the trenches: the time one of her vacant listings got robbed, mid-listing, appliances and all.
Repeat clients moved out of state and handed off a vacant house with an alarm code buried in a five-month-old text message. The camera system looked impressive, eight angles of surveillance, but it hadn't actually recorded anything in two and a half years. Somewhere between painters, cleaners, and showings, the alarm never got set again, and it was never on Alissa's radar to ask.
Then came the Saturday phone call every agent dreads: a showing agent reporting a kicked-in back door, a stolen oven, a missing washer and dryer, and a fridge the thieves gave up on halfway out the front door. Police, fingerprints, dead-end cameras, and a seller relationship that went from grateful to accusatory in the span of a few days.
This one is a real, honest look at what happens when property safety falls through the cracks, what Alissa changed in her process because of it, and why y'all need a plan for your vacant listings before something goes wrong, not after.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why Realtor Safety Month usually focuses on personal safety, and why property safety deserves its own spotlight
What actually got stolen (and what the thieves gave up on)
How Alissa handled calling police, meeting them at the property, and coordinating repairs for out-of-state sellers
How her broker helped negotiate a fair resolution tied to closing
Why you are not your seller's property manager, and how to set that expectation early
The new questions Alissa now asks every seller about alarms, cameras, and monitoring
Why virtually staging vacant listings can be a safety move, not just a marketing one
A past story about a garage door left open, and why "who showed it last" matters more than you think
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You're not a property manager. When they hired you to sell the home, they didn't hire you to be the lawn company or the security company." Katy
"I trust no one and nothing." Katy
"It's just proof that even when you have good systems, things can go wrong. It's really about handling it professionally and learning from it." Alissa
"I virtually stage all my vacant properties for safety. I don't want them to appear vacant." Alissa
"It's Realtor Safety Month. Be careful. Take your safety and the property safety seriously." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 317: Realtor Safety Month: Scams, Showings, and Survival (hustlehumblypodcast.com/317)
Episode 216: Important Safety Stories & Tips for Realtors (hustlehumblypodcast.com/216)
Episode 161: Realtor Safety Tips from a LEO (hustlehumblypodcast.com/161)
Episode 112: Safety First (hustlehumblypodcast.com/112)
Episodes 6 & 7: Realtor Safety with Carl Carter (Beverly Carter Foundation)
Hustle Humbly Email Templates (new security checklist)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Be The One by Matrika
Mon, 14 Sep 2026 - 58min - 416 - 370: Whatever Your Business Is, The Fundamentals Are The Same
Happy Labor Day! In honor of all the laboring people out there, we're doing something a little different this week.
We are always surprised to hear of listeners not in real estate at all, and we love hearing how this podcast has still helped your business. So today we're speaking straight to the masses. We made ourselves a rule: no saying "real estate," "realtor," "buyer," or "seller" for the whole episode (we mostly stuck to it). Because the truth is, whatever your business is, the fundamentals are the same: attract people, convert them, take really good care of them, stay in touch, know your numbers, and build systems so you don't have to start over every single Monday.
We're walking through nine categories that apply to literally any business, from a hairdresser to a landscaper to a lawyer to an Etsy shop owner. We share real stories (including a dentist who ghosted Katy without so much as a goodbye, and a yard service that over-communicated its way into her heart during a rain delay), and we break down exactly what separates a business that thrives from one that closes after two months.
If this one resonates, send it to a friend who isn't in real estate. We promise it still applies.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Know how your business actually works: the attract, convert, deliver framework and why most people get stuck avoiding the "convert" (aka sell) part
Set expectations before they become problems: business hours, response times, cancellation policies, and why an auto-email-responder can save your sanity
Make decisions once and repeat them: email templates, pricing, and writing your own standard operating procedures
Communicate clearly: admitting mistakes, having hard conversations, and why "the customer is always right" isn't actually true
Know your numbers: cost to acquire a customer, profit after expenses, and why being busy isn't the same as being profitable
Treat past customers as an asset: staying top of mind, asking for reviews and referrals, and why repeat business beats chasing new leads every time
Make your marketing easy to understand: sounding like a human instead of an industry brochure
Protect your time: shutdown routines, office hours, and why your business shouldn't require 24/7 access to you
Professionalism is a competitive advantage: showing up, following through, and answering your messages
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You cannot ask for more business if you are not handling the business that you have right now." Alissa
"Being good at your craft and being good at running your business are two different skills." Katy
"It's tricky being an entrepreneur because all sides of the brain are needed." Alissa
"It is so easy to confuse being busy with being profitable." Katy
"You don't have to be the best at what you do. You just have to do what you say you're going to do." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Emily Ley / The Simplified Planners (referenced for her "make the decision once" philosophy)
Episode 17: What to Do When You Are New OR Slow
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 07 Sep 2026 - 1h 11min - 415 - 369: Where Communication Breaks Down
Have you ever sent an email, assumed it was read, and then found out three days later it wasn't?
This week we're digging into where communication breaks down in a real estate transaction, and it's happening more than ever right now. Everyone has a hundred tabs open in their brain, clients are getting information from a dozen different places, and somehow we're still expected to be the ones who keep it all straight.
We start with the basics: verifying who your actual client is (still learning that lesson years in), and why "I sent the email" is not the same as "they read the email." Alissa shares her blind copy and snooze trick for following up on important messages, plus how she handles group texts and email chains when there's a spouse, a divorce, or a court-ordered communication app involved.
Then we get into a story from Alissa's very first listing appointment as a brand new agent, and the lesson in taking the high road instead of over-explaining or defending yourself when a client questions you.
We also talk about voice notes, why tone gets lost the second you're not talking to someone in person, and the very real, very current problem of clients running everything through ChatGPT before they even talk to us. Katy tells the story of a seller's AI-drafted repair response that read as cold and rude, the two hours she spent recategorizing repair costs on a Saturday morning to try to save the deal, and how the whole thing resolved itself while she was feverishly working. It's a good reminder that in this market, we have to be more prepared than ever, because our clients are showing up to conversations having already asked the machine first.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why "I sent it" doesn't mean "they read it," and the blind copy and snooze trick for following up
Verifying who your actual client is before you assume everyone already knows
Keeping everyone in the loop with group texts and email chains
A story from Alissa's very first listing appointment
Why voice notes are becoming a go-to for tone when a text or email just won't cut it
How a couple's phone consultation revealed they weren't even on the same page about buying
A seller's AI-drafted repair response that read as cold and rude, and what it took to smooth it over
Why you have to assume every text, email, and voice note gets forwarded to someone else
Why clients are checking with ChatGPT before they check with you, and what that means for how prepared you need to be
The importance of being the calm, confident, professional voice in every transaction, especially now
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You have to assume everything you text and email and say is forwarded." Alissa
"The tone from the machine was not going to work in a real life scenario." Katy
"We now more than ever need to be the boss." Alissa
"Your client needs to know what you know to make the best decision." Katy
"It's a fine line between too much and too little." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 358: Who Actually Has to Sign? How to Protect Your Business (hustlehumblypodcast.com/358)
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
Trello (for tracking your pipeline)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 31 Aug 2026 - 48min - 414 - 368: How to Qualify Real Estate Clients Before You Waste Your Time
Have you ever gotten a message from a total stranger asking you to show them a house tomorrow? Or, worse, NOW?
This episode covers a little bit of everything: client intake, boundaries, and buyer and seller consultations, because honestly this topic touches almost every system we've built our businesses on. Lately we've both had new clients come to us in a completely different state than we're used to. Ready to go, no pre-approval, no idea what the process actually looks like, and a whole lot of whiplash for us.
We walk through exactly how we intake a brand new buyer starting with that very first phone call, why pre-approval has to happen before we ever get in the car, and how the buyer representation agreement fits into that conversation. We share the story of a buyer we've worked with off and on since 2018 (yes, eight years), a listing referral that nearly fell apart over price, and a listing appointment where being honest about a renovation almost cost the job... until it didn't.
If you've been letting your own rules slide because you're busy, or slow, or scared of losing a referral, this one is your permission slip to take control back from the very first conversation.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why client intake, boundaries, and buyer and seller consultations all overlap
What to do when a brand new buyer wants to see a house before you've even met
How to explain the buyer representation agreement without scaring people off
Why pre-approval needs to happen before the buyer consultation, not after
The "may I have a preferred lender call you" question that actually gets buyers moving
A story about learning the hard way to meet at a seller's house before showing them other homes
Why a referral doesn't automatically mean you have a real client
A listing interview where honesty about an overpriced renovation almost cost the appointment
Why fair housing means running your process the exact same way every single time
What to do when a seller's neighbors are talking, and it starts affecting your reputation
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"I don't like to list houses. I like to sell them." -Alissa
"I want you to find somebody that you like, that you trust." -Alissa
"Just because they sent you a human doesn't mean they sent you a client." -Katy
"It's really up to you what you can endure." -Katy
"You have to do it the same every time, whether you're busy or you're slow." -Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 113: Be the Boss (hustlehumblypodcast.com/113)
Episode 210: Buyer Consultation (hustlehumblypodcast.com/210)
Episode 143: Working with Sellers: Pre-Listing Prep (hustlehumblypodcast.com/143)
Episode 79: Buyers, Buyers, Buyers (hustlehumblypodcast.com/79)
Episode 365: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Your Business (hustlehumblypodcast.com/365)
Build Your Own Business (BYOB), live starting September 8th (hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob-waitlist)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
This episode's toast is from Allison, honoring her mom, April Jeera, a Realtor in the Austin and San Antonio areas and president-elect of the Women's Council of Realtors Austin.
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 24 Aug 2026 - 1h 08min - 413 - 367: How to Mine Your Real Estate Database
Happy birthday to us! 🥳Hustle Humbly is turning seven this week, and in seven years we still haven't found a better way to build a real estate business than the good ole fashioned database. So we're celebrating the only way we know how: talking database again!
If you're new here, this is your sign to go listen to Episode 9, the original database episode, and grab our free database template at hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere. But if you already have a database, this episode is for you, because today we're not building one, we're mining it.
We walk through the questions you need to ask yourself about your own database (when's the last time you actually opened it and read through it?), the two check-in messages every agent should be sending, and how to go name by name to figure out who's a buyer, who's a seller, and who's sitting on a referral you haven't asked for yet. We even share our own numbers. One of us found that 6.5% of our database has sent more than one referral, the other found 4.7%.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why you can never truly be "done" with your database
The "who do you know" list and how it helps you refresh who belongs on there
Why someone who makes you dread seeing their name shouldn't be on your list
The two check-in messages to send.
A real story about an email that went out to 390 contacts and got 20 responses, no call to action needed
Why "everybody already knows a Realtor" is a story you're telling yourself
Adding a referral column to track who sends you repeat business
How to use closed dates to figure out who's warming up to move again
Moving people up the "thermometer" from cold to warm to hot
How to track and thank your referral sources so they keep sending more
The exercise we did before recording: going through our own databases and finding our repeat referrer percentage
Action steps to open your database this week and start sorting
Why database is still the best business insurance you have against "the machine"
A sneak peek at Build Your Own Business, our live database class starting September 8th
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You can never be done with your database."
"If there is someone in your database that makes you go, oh, I don't want to get to this name, they shouldn't be there."
"When your business is struggling, database is the answer."
"You have to be better than the machine."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 9: How to Use Our Database (hustlehumblypodcast.com/9)
FREE Database Template (hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere)
Build Your Own Business (BYOB), live starting September 8th
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 17 Aug 2026 - 40min - 412 - 366: What Agents Are Really Saying Online
Ever wonder what real estate agents are talking about when nobody's watching? We went straight to the source: Reddit.
We dug through the subreddits: r/realtor and r/realestateagent, reading through 2025 and 2026 posts to see what agents are actually saying when they think no one from their brokerage is looking. And y'all, it was a lot. One out of every three posts was a vendor or marketer trying to sell agents a shiny solution to a problem they just admitted to having in public. The most engaged posts were not the wins or the strategy questions. They were confusion, hurt feelings, and agents who felt completely lost.
So we broke it all down by topic: vendor fatigue, new agents who are drowning, a commission split that made everyone (including us) mad, what happens when your best friend uses another agent, the listening mistake that cost one agent a listing, social media chaos, CRM overload, the professionalism gap, and the agents juggling real estate with a second job. If you have ever felt like you were the only one struggling with any of this, we promise you are not.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why one in three posts on real estate Reddit is really just a vendor pitch in disguise
What it means that the most engaged posts are about confusion, not wins
Why new agents commenting on Reddit made us so sad, and what's really going on
What "character creation syndrome" is and why the perfect headshot and business cards don't build a business
Episodes to check out if you or someone you know is a drowning new agent
The commission split story that had everyone up in arms and what she should have known before saying yes
What happened when a good friend went under contract with a Zillow agent without saying a word
The listing an agent lost because she forgot a detail the seller told her three weeks earlier
Why posting "just sold" content is officially spam, and what to post instead
Why agents are sitting on thousands of contacts they never actually use
The professionalism gap showing up in nearly every single thread we read
What dual career and part-time agents are up against, and the encouragement they need to hear
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"The most engaged posts weren't about strategy or wins. They were about confusion, hurt feelings, and feeling lost."
"We've got to stop trying to automate the relationship building part of our job. It's reps."
"Building the image of a successful agent doesn't actually create success. Doing the things successful agents do should be your only focus."
"Fifty percent of the time the other agents are way harder than my clients."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 361: Agent Vendor Relations (hustlehumblypodcast.com/361)
Episode 356: Mistakes New Agents Make (hustlehumblypodcast.com/356)
Episode 336: Growing Realtor Confidence (hustlehumblypodcast.com/336)
Episode 103: New Agent 101 (hustlehumblypodcast.com/103)
Episode 26: Everything We Wished We Knew Before We Started (hustlehumblypodcast.com/26)
Episode 334: What to Say When Friends or Family Use Another Agent (hustlehumblypodcast.com/334)
Episode 39: How to Deal with Rejection (hustlehumblypodcast.com/39)
Episode 116: Communication (hustlehumblypodcast.com/116)
Episode 326: Managing Sellers with Confidence (hustlehumblypodcast.com/326)
Episode 343: The Social Media Mindset Shift (hustlehumblypodcast.com/343)
Episodes 301, 308 & 274: Social Media Episodes (hustlehumblypodcast.com/301, /308, /274)
Episode 335: Before You Join the Real Estate Jam (hustlehumblypodcast.com/335)
Episode 23: The Three P's of Professionalism (hustlehumblypodcast.com/23)
Episode 360: Feel Good Stories From the Field (hustlehumblypodcast.com/360)
Episode 355: Treat Your Business Like a Business (hustlehumblypodcast.com/355)
Episode 198: Real Estate Side Hustles (hustlehumblypodcast.com/198)
Plaud recorder (mentioned as a tool agents are using to capture appointment details)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 - 51min - 411 - 365: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Your Business
Do you ever feel like you're working hard in your real estate business, but nothing is actually happening? You might be busy without being productive, and that is exactly what we are digging into today.
When you work for yourself, nobody is forcing you to audit your business. You just stay in it instead of working on it. So we decided to hold up a mirror and do a full accountability check in, together, out loud, on the mic.
We walk through the same audit questions we ask ourselves: did I actually do the thing, did I do it once or consistently, did I have a follow up plan, am I measuring results too soon, and did I tell people what I do and how I help. We use a real case study (73 hand written letters to one neighborhood) to show exactly how this plays out, then we take you through marketing, database, consistency, ROI, and real life scenario audits including the gym, your sphere, and past clients who used another agent.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why "hiding behind busy work" isn't the same as growing your business
The real reason your business "clock" hasn't started (and why it now takes closer to four years, not three, to really get momentum)
The five big questions to ask before you decide something "worked" or "didn't work"
A live case study auditing Alissa's 73 hand written letters to one neighborhood
Why doing something once is never enough to judge results
How to build a real follow up plan instead of just hoping something works
Auditing your general marketing activities and tracking your actual ROI
Why comparing yourself to the other agents in your market is a trap
How to know if you're giving something enough time before you quit
The database and relationship questions every agent should be asking
Why adding new people to your database in the last 30 days matters
The consistency check: are you working every week, or only when it's slow?
Real life scenario audits: lost past clients, mailers that didn't work, and sphere referrals
Why the gym, school, or church community isn't producing referrals (and what actually will)
What to ask yourself when marketing spend didn't produce results
The "then what" question that changes everything about your follow up
Why relationships, not transactions, are the real long game in real estate
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"If you've been in the business for five years and you've never treated it like a business or had systems in place and tracked what you're doing, I hate to tell you, but your clock hasn't started." - Alissa
"You're not working on it, you're working in it." - Katy
"Preparation is the highest form of procrastination." - Alissa
"It's like you keep saying, then what?" - Alissa
"We should enjoy our marketing. It should feel natural to you. It should be your vibe. And that is how you connect with people." - Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Episode 17: What to Do When You Are New OR Slow
Episode 19: all about consistency
Leave us a review at RateThisPodcast.com/HustleHumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026 - 58min - 410 - 364: How to Handle Losing a Client
You win some, you lose some. So why does losing one always feel like it means so much more?
This week we get into what happens after the deal falls through, the client picks another agent, or a friend quietly lists their house with someone else. We talk about the "one day rule" a friend taught us for grieving a lost deal, and why real estate karma means the good and the bad even out over time if you let it.
We share the moment a nervous friend told us she wasn't hiring us, and why we've learned to respond with grace instead of guilt-tripping. We get into the client who broke the news she was moving out of state over text, the ones who ghost instead of confronting you, and why the people who face you directly deserve to never regret it. We also cover the awkward reality of splitting business between two agents in one household, the ChatGPT trick for cooling down an angry email before you hit send, and a listener's story about a "shopper" who keeps circling back without ever committing.
Then we tell the story of a seven figure deal that turned into a $70,000 condo, then into no deal at all, and how walking away with honesty turned into a stream of referrals instead. And we close with the story of an eight year strained friendship that got repaired with one honest text message.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why we believe in real estate karma and how it evens out over time
The "one day rule" for grieving a lost deal and moving on
What to say when someone nervously tells you they're not hiring you
Why business gets messier when it's built on relationships, not just transactions
The client who confessed she was relocating out of state over text
Being the icebreaker when a client lists with someone else and never tells you
How to handle it when a buyer's spouse already has "his" agent
Splitting a household's business between two different agents
Using ChatGPT to turn an angry email into a professional one
A listener's letter about a shopper who never quite commits
Sticking to your boundaries even when it might cost you the deal
The seven figure deal that shrank to a $70,000 condo, then to nothing
How honesty about a bad purchase turned into new referrals
Repairing an eight year strained friendship with one text
Our rapid fire list of real estate karma quotes to remember
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Be the agent who says no worries, I'm happy for you, and actually means it."
"Every time you choose grace over resentment, you're playing the long game."
"Don't burn a bridge because you're hurt. You may need to cross it again later."
"Real estate is hard enough without carrying a backpack full of grudges."
"If you take every business decision personally, this business will eat you alive. Your value is not determined by whether someone hires you."
"We're building a reputation, not collecting scorecards."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 346: Desperate Agent Behavior (hustlehumblypodcast.com/346)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 27 Jul 2026 - 1h 00min - 409 - 363: What to Do When the Appraisal Comes In Low
Three low appraisals. Ten days. One Realtor who used to be an appraiser herself, with a dad and sister still in the field.
If you've been hearing agents in your market say appraisals are coming in low right now, you're not imagining it. In this episode, Alissa walks us through three real, current transactions where the appraisal came in under contract price, and what she actually did about each one. From a $20,000 gap that took two hours of dispute writing to a $55,000 shortfall that made her question her entire career, this is a real look at what it takes to fight for your seller, or protect your buyer, when the number comes back low.
We get into why appraisers are often behind the market, what actually goes into a strong appraisal dispute letter, why you should never let ChatGPT write the whole thing for you, and how to keep your sellers grounded without ever making promises you can't keep.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why appraisals are coming in low right now, and why appraisers are always a little behind the market
Case Study #1: the $20,000 low appraisal that got resolved for a $13,000 gap
Exactly how to start an appraisal dispute (and why you review before you call your seller)
What actually goes in a dispute letter: facts only, no feeling words
Why you can't rely on ChatGPT to write your dispute for you
Buyer and seller options when an appraisal comes in low, and who really has to sign off
Case Study #2: the small $3,000 gap where the seller chose not to dispute at all
Case Study #3: the $55,000 appraisal gap that took two of the longest dispute letters of the week
How to set your sellers' expectations at the listing appointment so a low number doesn't blindside them
Why you're just the messenger with data, and how to keep that from feeling personal
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"It needs to be written as factual. Only the facts." – Alissa
"You have to know these houses. If the appraiser makes a mistake, the computer doesn't know it's a mistake." – Alissa
"You're just a messenger with data." – Katy
"It's not that I'm not confident. It's that I know a second appraisal could come in lower too." – Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
ChatGPT / AI tools (referenced as a starting point for reviewing an appraisal, not a replacement for agent fact-checking)
Got a toast for someone who's helped you in your business? This episode's toast is from Samantha Gonzalez, honoring her mentor Teena Marie Mateo. Send yours to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com and we might read it on the show!
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 20 Jul 2026 - 1h 00min - 408 - 362: Why Buyers Are Struggling Right Now
You want to buy a house. But you can't. Or it's just really, really hard. We've both got buyers right now who are struggling, and it's not because they're not trying. It's because the math has changed. Back in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, houses were $20,000 to $40,000 and you needed 20% down. Now that down payment number is basically what a whole house used to cost, and the median price in our market has nearly tripled since one of us started selling real estate in 2005. So in this episode we're getting into what it actually looks like to help a buyer who is priced out, unsure, or just starting to gather their numbers. From lender grant programs you may not know exist, to the buyer consultation questions that save everyone time, to the client who thought they had a million dollars covered and didn't, we're sharing the real stories behind helping buyers navigate an affordability crunch without losing hope (or your sanity). Here's what we cover in this episode: - Why the math is so different now than it was even ten years ago - Why you need more than one go-to lender, and how to find out what specialized or grant programs are available in your market - The Regions Bank 100% doctor loan and why niche lender programs matter - A real buyer consultation story and why starting with the numbers first changes everything - How to handle a referral when the buyer's expectations and budget don't match reality - What a credit re-score is and why it matters for buyers who aren't quite ready - The overconfident buyer story that still makes us wince - Why "congrats on your pre-approval" doesn't mean go start showing houses - Why you always need to see a house with your own eyes before writing an offer - How to manage parents who show up excited (and a little too opinionated) during a buyer's search - Why some inspection issues are dealbreakers and others just need a little imagination Key Quotes & Takeaways: - "It's not that I'm too good for the price point. It's that I know the mental toll." - "There's no secret. There's no secret foreclosure. There's no secret fixer upper." - "I just want my buyers to have the information and the education to make a good, sound decision. I don't want the decision made off of emotions or fear." - "Owning the house fixed my credit. Every month I paid that mortgage, my credit just went up, up, up, up." - "You have to start somewhere. It's an investment." (Speaker unconfirmed on all quotes above, this transcript's labels all read "Unknown" instead of Alissa/Katy.) Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: - Episode 361: Agent Vendor Relationships (hustlehumblypodcast.com/361) - Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership) Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 - 54min - 407 - 361: Agent Vendor Relationships
Has a lender ever given you the full court press and you weren't sure how to say no? Or maybe you've wondered why your vendor partners aren't sending you more leads? This episode is going to give you a lot to think about. We've been getting messages from agents on both ends of this spectrum — some wanting to know how to get lenders to back off, and others wanting to know how to find a lender who will send them referrals. So we decided it was time to address both, and we're not holding back. We start by going back to basics with a law you may have heard of but probably don't know as well as you think: RESPA, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. It has been around since 1975, and it is still federal law, and it still applies to you and every vendor relationship you have. Then we get into the real conversation — mindset, professionalism, how to say no gracefully, and why expecting leads from your vendors is a trap that will make you miserable. Here's what we cover in this episode: - What RESPA actually is and what it prohibits (spoiler: a lot of what you see happening in the industry) - The history of RESPA, Dodd-Frank, and the CFPB and why these rules exist - Why "things of value" from vendors — including gift cards, event tickets, and subsidized marketing — are considered illegal kickbacks - What co-marketing with a lender is allowed to look like vs. what crosses the line - Why lenders get more aggressive when the market slows and how to handle it with kindness - How to professionally say no when a vendor won't stop pursuing you - Why you should never choose your lender based on what they can do for you - The mindset shift you need to stop expecting referrals from your vendor partners - How to add vendors to your database and treat them like people, not a lead source - A real community story about a lender who finally sent a referral after 16 months — and why it worked - How agent behavior is observed by every vendor you work with, every single time This is your reminder that your vendor relationships are a reflection of your professionalism. And your business is yours to run. Key Quotes & Takeaways: - "If you are an agent out there, you do not pick your lender based on who can do the most for you. We are here to represent our clients." Katy - "The lenders that I use are answering their phones because they're at their office." Katy - "You are being observed." Katy - "I am in charge of what I make." Katy - "Everybody's nice until they're not — until they don't get what they're expecting." Katy - "You are responsible for yourself. You are responsible for generating your own business." Katy - "I want to be known as someone you do not ever have to ask to pay for anything for her, because she's not gonna let you." Katy Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: - The Big Short (2015 film) - RESPA — Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (1975) - Dodd-Frank Act (2010/2015) - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) - Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership) Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 06 Jul 2026 - 49min - 406 - 360: Feel-Good Stories from the Field: How to Co-op Well
The market is tough, agents are stressed, and claws can come out. We get it. But being a jerk isn't going to make anything better, and this episode is our loving reminder of that.
We are deep in summer and we just needed a little happy boost around here. So instead of another finger-pointy episode about what's going wrong, Katy and I sat down to share some genuine feel-good stories from the field. Stories about what happens when Realtors actually choose community over competition, even when the market makes that harder than it should be.
This episode is the pep talk you didn't know you needed. Whether you are the listing agent, the co-op agent, the broker, or just someone who has been on the receiving end of a kind gesture, we think you will walk away from this one feeling a little lighter and a lot more inspired to be the agent people actually want to work with.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
How Alissa organized a "speed dating" listing tour with five agents she barely knew and what happened next
Why reaching out to strangers in the MLS is not as scary as you think it is
The story that went viral-ish: when the agent who lost the listing brought the buyer
What to do when you lose a competing listing appointment to a friend
Why being the thoughtful co-op agent who calls about the AC or the hole in the ceiling actually matters
How listing agents can show up for buyer agents (and why it pays off)
The LSU baseball ball signed by a retired player and why a Realtor friend made it possible
What happens inside a luxury neighborhood when competing agents decide to run open houses together
Why how you exit a brokerage matters just as much as how you enter one
What brokers can learn from being gracious when agents leave
If you have been feeling the pressure to compete instead of connect, this is the episode for you. Your reputation is one of the best tools you have, and being a good co-op agent is one of the fastest ways to build it.
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Being a jerk isn't going to make anything better." Alissa
"In multiple offer situations, your reputation is one of the best tools you can have." Katy
"You get more flies with honey." Katy
"How do you want to be talked about? That agent is going to go to their new company and they're going to talk about you." Katy
"People are starving for the good. We are just not sharing enough of it." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 36: Community Over Competition (hustlehumblypodcast.com/36)
Episode 129: How to Be a Good Co-Op Agent (hustlehumblypodcast.com/129)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Join Hustle Humbly Community! http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 45min - 405 - 359: From Google Sheets to AI: Our Honest Real Estate Tech Stack
Is your brain cluttered with every new tool, platform, and software someone told you that you absolutely need? Same.
This episode started as a simple refresh of our tech stack after a listener wrote in asking what we actually use to run our businesses. Spoiler: the list is still shockingly short. But somewhere between Google Sheets and listing descriptions, we took a turn into AI territory, and y'all, we are not turning back.
We walk through our bare-bones tech stack (yes, we still use a spreadsheet), talk honestly about how we are each using AI in our real estate businesses right now, and share why keeping things simple is not laziness, it is a strategy. We also get into SEO vs. AEO vs. GEO (yes, GEO is a real thing and it matters), what AI actually pulled up when Alissa searched herself, and the big announcement: Katy is teaching a monthly AI class inside the Hustle Humbly Community starting now.
If you have been quietly panicking every time someone mentions AI, or if you have been using it already and want to go deeper, this episode is for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The listener email that prompted this episode and our full simple tech stack answer
Why simpler systems get used more consistently (and cost less money)
Google Sheets, Trello, Canva, email, Google Drive, MLS, and yes, a little AI
Transaction management and e-sign tools required by our brokerages
How to qualify your tech choices based on the type of business you want to run
SEO vs. AEO vs. GEO: what each one means and which one actually matters for your real estate business
What happened when Alissa's seller looked her up with AI (hint: reviews matter a lot)
How Alissa used ChatGPT to analyze multiple offers and review pre-approval letters
Using AI to virtually stage photos, repaint rooms, and show sellers the vision
How Katy used Claude to turn listing appointment notes and photos into a beautiful PDF checklist for a seller
The Plaud device that listens to your appointments and summarizes them
Why shiny tools do not fix broken habits
Claude vs. ChatGPT: what is different and why Katy made the switch
Projects, skills, and co-work inside Claude explained simply
The new monthly AI class inside the Hustle Humbly Community for $25/month
Why your Google reviews are your most important AI visibility tool right now
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Shiny objects feel productive, but they can delay real progress." Alissa
"New tools do not fix broken habits. If you have systems in place that you're not using, a new system is not going to help you." Alissa
"As long as you're running your business like a business and getting reviews from people, the internet and the AI are going to pick up on that." Alissa
"You can not ask for more business if you are not taking care of the business you already have." Alissa
"Using AI well will probably cut your task in half." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 8: Tech Tools for Real Estate (hustlehumblypodcast.com/8)
Google Sheets (free)
Trello (free)
Canva (free and paid)
Google Drive (free and paid)
ChatGPT (chatgpt.com) paid plan ~$20/month for photo editing
Claude / Claude.ai (claude.ai) paid plan ~$22/month
MLS e-sign (included with board dues)
Dotloop (e-sign & transaction management)
SkySlope (transaction management)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Email Templates 101 (emailtemplates101.com)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 22 Jun 2026 - 44min - 404 - 358: Who Actually Has to Sign? How to Protect Your Business
Have you ever closed a deal only to find out you had the wrong person on the buyer rep agreement? Or listed a property without confirming who actually has legal authority to sell? This episode is your reminder that verifying identity in real estate transactions is not optional, and the stories in this one will make sure you never forget it. We are diving into a topic that sounds logistical but is actually one of the most important things you can do to protect your business: making sure you have the right signatures on the right documents from the very beginning. From buyer representation agreements to estate listings, from fraud prevention to identity verification, we are sharing real stories, real mistakes, and real solutions. Katy kicks things off with a wild story from a colleague whose buyers turned into a commission battle because a college daughter signed a buyer rep agreement with a Zillow agent while mom and dad were out of town. The result? A 50/50 commission split and a hard lesson learned. Alissa shares her own recent experience with a couple where the husband flat out refused to sign, plus the story of how a cash-paying dad showed up at closing and threw off her compliance paperwork entirely. We also get into estate sales, listing fraud on vacant land, power of attorney misconceptions, and why asking for a copy of someone's driver's license is never overstepping. Here's what we cover in this episode: - Why the buyer rep agreement is only as strong as the names on it - How to find out who will actually be on title before you start showing homes - What to do when only one party in a couple signs your buyer representation agreement - The procuring cause nightmare that the buyer rep agreement was supposed to fix - A first-hand story about a husband refusing to sign and how Alissa handled it - When a dad swoops in with cash at closing and suddenly you have the wrong buyer on paper - How to protect yourself when listing inherited or estate properties - Why you should ask for a copy of the will and contact the succession attorney before you list - What happens when a succession is not complete and your listing cannot legally sell - Vacant land fraud: the growing scam where someone pretends to be the seller - The truth about power of attorney and why you cannot do a POA for a POA - Why asking for a driver's license is not rude; it is just good business - How to use your broker as a buffer when clients push back on signing - Toasting Syed, a Realtor in Virginia who came to the US in 2022 as a US Army ally and grew from 2 transactions to 12 under contract for 2026 Key Quotes & Takeaways: - "The question isn't necessarily who's the buyer. Who do you see on the title? Who is going to be on the title?" Katy - "No one tosses up a fuss who is legit. If you say I need a copy of your driver's license and they say no, just push back. These are legal documents. I must verify your identity." Alissa - "If you cave at their first request, which goes against how you run your business, they are going to run the rest of the show." Katy - "This rep agreement is getting signed. It's the law." Alissa - "Clear, sincere communication matters more than perfect English." Syed (via Katy) Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: - Episode 190: Wire Fraud and Real Estate Fraud with Nikki (title attorney) (hustlehumblypodcast.com/190) - Episode 317: Realtor Safety (hustlehumblypodcast.com/317) - Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership) Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 39min - 403 - 357: Listing Struggles: Seller Prep, Photo Day, and Protecting Yourself
Have you ever walked out of a listing appointment feeling like you just gave a masterclass... for free?
In this episode we are talking about one of the trickiest catch-22s in real estate: you have to provide value to win the listing, but you also cannot give away the farm before anything is signed. This episode is a very honest, very practical chat about protecting yourself on listing appointments while still being the professional your sellers need.
We started with a question from a listener who wanted to know how Alissa gets strict with sellers during the prep process without coming across as harsh or judgmental. The answer? It is less about being strict and more about knowing your job, explaining the why behind your advice, and having the confidence to deliver hard truths with warmth. We walk through real scenarios, including what to say when sellers push back on repairs, what happens when they show up to photo day without completing their checklist, and how to handle the overwhelming house that needs a phase two (and sometimes a phase three).
Then we get into the part nobody talks about: how to actually protect yourself before you start spending hours helping sellers prep their home. We share what agents across the country are doing in their markets, including office exclusives, delayed listing options, commitment letters, and everything in between. And we remind you that if you are giving away all your best advice before anything is signed, that is a business problem, not a seller problem.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why the listing interview and the photo prep consultation are two completely different things (and why you need a hard line between them)
How Alissa delivers the prep list with confidence and warmth, without sellers feeling judged
What to say when sellers refuse to do the work: "We will need to adjust the price"
The photo day story that taught Alissa to always do a pre-photo walkthrough
Why phasing the prep process works (cookie jars first, deep clean second)
How to frame staging prep as phase one of moving so sellers actually get it done
The real cost of not prepping: price, days on market, and your own sanity
How agents in different states (Georgia, Florida, Connecticut, Texas, Colorado, California, Oregon, Minnesota) are getting something signed before the consultation
Office exclusive status: what it is, how it works, and why it protects you
Commitment letters and listing agreements with future marketing dates
What to do about reimbursable expenses if a seller cancels
The builder story that reminded us sometimes you just have to stop marketing until they hold up their end
Why your delivery gets better with experience, open houses, and being in the room
Remember: price, location, condition. If condition is not right, price is the only lever left
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"I do this to everybody. That's why I sell houses." - Alissa
"Prepping for photos is phase one of moving." - Alissa
"Listing interview and photo prep are not combined. There is a hard line." - Katy
"If you gave them all that value and they had no problem throwing you to the curb, guess whose fault that is? Yours. This is really about running your business like a business." - Alissa
"You are what you say you are. If you keep telling yourself you can't talk to people that way, you won't." - Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Staging Conversations Guide: hustlehumblypodcast.com/courses
Hustle Humbly Community: hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 08 Jun 2026 - 54min - 402 - 356: Mistakes New Realtors Make
We've all forgotten something at the worst possible moment. (Alissa forgot $150 worth of Mother's Day cakes at the bakery.) Forgetting a cake stings. Forgetting to check FHA loan requirements for a distressed property can cost your buyer over $1,000 they don't have. That's the difference between a personal mistake and a professional one, and that's exactly what we're digging into today.
This episode is all about the mistakes new Realtors make, not the business setup kind, but the ones that happen in the middle of real transactions with real buyers and sellers. We received a message asking us to cover this, so here we are. Consider this your friendly but firm reminder that learning on the job at your clients' expense is not a plan.
In this episode we cover:
Not understanding pre-approval terms or being afraid to talk about money with clients
Why leaving financing blanks on a purchase agreement is a serious problem
The importance of knowing common loan types (FHA, VA, RD, conventional) and their requirements
Not asking for help and winging transactions instead of going to your broker
Why Facebook groups are not a substitute for your broker's guidance
Letting buyers run the show during due diligence instead of setting expectations
The "3 S's" framework: safety, structure, and systems for home inspection guidance
HOA due diligence: what agents miss and why it matters more than ever
Understanding occupancy and why you can't negotiate it after the fact
Panic canceling instead of problem-solving during due diligence
Saying yes to every client (and why that's hurting you, not helping you)
Hiding behind texts and emails when the situation calls for a phone call
Taking everything personally and what it costs you long term
Real stories: the mold case, the missing refrigerator, and the agent who told his clients to sue him
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"If you are not comfortable talking about money, you are not ready to have a client." Alissa
"When an agent feels frustrated by something, instead of being frustrated at the client, they need to say: I guess I didn't explain that." Alissa
"You don't need to be over there cleaning their house until 10 o'clock at night. You can't want to sell the house more than they do." Alissa
"I can't count the number of people that didn't use me in my first five years that I have done so much business with in the last ten years, because I did not burn the bridge." Alissa
"It's not okay to learn on the job at the expense of your buyers and sellers. You have to take this seriously." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 355: Treating Your Business Like a Business (hustlehumblypodcast.com/355)
Make Sure You're Sure Template (hustlehumblypodcast.com/makesure)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
If you are a new agent, bookmark this one. If you know a new agent, send it to them today.
Are you loving the podcast? Leave us a review! It means the world and helps other agents find the show.
Leave a review: hustlehumblypodcast.com/itunes
New to Hustle Humbly? Start here: hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Join the Hustle Humbly Community: hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Get our free resources and templates: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Email us: team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
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Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 01 Jun 2026 - 47min - 401 - 355: How to Treat Your Real Estate Business Like a Business
You got your real estate license. But did you actually build a business, or did you just start collecting transactions?
We get messages from y'all all the time, and so many of the problems you are writing about could be solved with one mindset shift: treat your business like a business. So this episode is your pep talk and your reality check, all in one.
Real estate has a sneaky way of deceiving you into thinking you are working when you are really just busy. Nobody warns you in real estate school that you will be the marketing department, the admin department, the accounting department, AND the person running every appointment. Whether you are solo or on a team, all of that still lands on you.
And we have lots of stories to bring this home. There is the put-together Realtor Alissa met at the nail salon who is leaving a team she loves, not on emotion, but because she finally tracked her numbers and it was time. There is Stacy, who slid a buyer rep cancellation across the table after offer number five. There is the friend group chat that taught Alissa why everyone, especially friends and family, needs the same consultation and the same rules.
This is the episode where we give you permission to have rules, communicate them, track your numbers, and behave like the professional you already are.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why being busy in real estate is not the same as running a business Wearing all the hats: marketing, admin, accounting, and the actual job The nail salon Realtor who is leaving her team because of what her tracking revealed Why you have to know your ROI on every dollar you spend (postcards, leads, brokerage splits) Professionalism vs. being everyone's best friend, and where that line really is How to set communication rules (email vs. text) and actually enforce them Why the buyer and seller consultation matters even more with friends and family Treating every client the same: same consultation, same rules, same buyer rep agreement When a price point or location is not a good business decision, and how to refer out and collect a referral fee Working ON your business, not just IN it (taxes, LLC, CPA, a monthly admin day)
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Real estate has a way of deceiving you into thinking you're working." Katy "She's not making an emotional decision, she's basing it on facts and numbers." Katy "Businesses have rules and expectations of their customers. If you never tell your clients, how would they know what the rules are?" Katy "At what cost is your business running? Are you stepping over a dollar to pick up a penny?" Alissa "You are a business, but you aren't acting like a business just because you got your real estate license." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
-Episode 113: Be the Boss (hustlehumblypodcast.com/113) -Episode 198: Real Estate Side Hustles (hustlehumblypodcast.com/198) -Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership) -Number Tracking freebie (hustlehumblypodcast.com/track)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Mon, 25 May 2026 - 46min - 400 - 354: Taking Time Off as a Solo Agent
Can a solo agent actually take a real vacation and come back to a business that's still intact? In this episode, I'm walking y'all through a real-time case study of taking time off as a solo agent. I just got back from a nine-day trip to Czech and Austria, and Katy is grilling me on every detail of how I prepped, who helped, what almost fell apart, and what I'd do differently next time.
I share the honest truth about the weeks leading up to the trip, the colleague I paid to help me, the client who almost slipped through my fingers, and the in-flight Wi-Fi disaster that had me texting offer responses across the Atlantic. If you've ever wondered whether you can step away from your real estate business without the whole thing falling apart, this one's for you.
In this episode we cover:
- Why I started panicking a month before my trip and how I got my mindset back
- How I picked the colleague who helped me and what I paid her for nine days
- The coffee meeting that gave me peace of mind before I left
- The client who almost ghosted me because I was going to be out of town
- How I scheduled closings strategically so I wouldn't have to worry while away
- The email system I taught my helper (and why she said it was amazing)
- The phone calls I did and didn't take from Europe
- Why FaceTiming the kids backfired and what worked instead
- The plane Wi-Fi nightmare that turned my flight home into a stress test
- Why I should have given myself more buffer days when I got back
- The lender disaster I came home to and how my exhaustion actually helped
Key quotes from the episode:
- "You cannot put a price on peace of mind." - Alissa
- "We are not emergency room doctors." - Alissa
- "Don't save those trips for when you retire. We all know Realtors don't retire." - Katy
- "You have a job so you can have a life. So you have to actually live the life." - Katy
- "If I can go to Europe for nine days as a solo agent, so can you." - Alissa
Products and episodes mentioned:
- Episode 57: Taking a Day Off
- Episode 102: Vacations, How-To Guide
- Episode 331: Kim Lafleur's Vacation (phone left with the team)
- Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
- Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
If this episode gave you a little nudge to actually plan that trip, we'd love a toast on the show. Submit your toasts and topic ideas to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com, and leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 18 May 2026 - 46min - 399 - 353: NAR's Campaign to Rebuild the Realtor Brand
Have you ever wondered if anyone at NAR is actually paying attention to what's happening out here in the trenches? This one's for you.
We recently had the opportunity to visit NAR headquarters in Chicago for their inaugural Creator Summit, and we walked away genuinely surprised. Not in a cynical way. In a good way. The visit was so eye-opening that we knew we had to bring one of the people behind the shift directly to you.
In this episode, we sit down with Bennett Richardson, NAR's Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. Bennett came to NAR about nine months ago after more than 20 years working at the crossroads of tech, policy, and media — including big roles at Google and Politico. He was brought in as part of a leadership overhaul, and his entire focus is on strengthening the Realtor brand and rebuilding consumer trust. What struck us most about Bennett is that he is not a lifer from inside the real estate bubble. He came in with fresh eyes, asked hard questions, and immediately started listening. That energy comes through in every part of this conversation.
We cover NAR's new ad campaign, how your dues are actually being put to work, and why Bennett believes that no Realtor should wake up thinking about NAR — but that a whole team of really smart people is waking up every day thinking about you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- Why NAR launched the Creator Summit and moved away from the "influencer" label
- How Bennett noticed that NAR was never part of the real estate creator conversation and what he did about it
- The shift from "no comment" to fully open communication with the press and the industry
- What the 150,000-member survey and dozens of focus groups revealed about what Realtors actually want
- The Netflix analogy: how NAR is working toward smarter, curated communication so your inbox doesn't get buried
- The "More Than Opening Doors" campaign, how it works, and how individual agents can actually use it
- What "Realtor Studio" is and how it will give agents free marketing templates and tools
- How NAR cut their email volume in half and still saw the same engagement
- What modernizing NAR actually looks like and why it always has to ladder back to helping members grow their business
- Bennett's message to every Realtor about where NAR is headed
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
- "We issued zero no comment responses when the press asked us about what's going on at NAR. Open for business, open for conversations — that is the posture I want us to have moving forward." — Bennett Richardson
- "It's very easy for big organizations, legacy institutions — and I think NAR did fall into this trap — where you think more about what we need to get out there, as opposed to what do our members need." — Bennett Richardson
- "We want every member to feel that for every dollar you put in of dues, you're getting 2, 3, 4, $10 back." — Bennett Richardson
- "We sent half as many emails as we had the prior year, but saw the same amount of engagement. All we lost was just clutter in people's inboxes." — Bennett Richardson
- "No Realtor should wake up every day thinking about NAR, but there's a whole bunch of really smart people waking up every day thinking about you." — Bennett Richardson
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
- Bennett Richardson, NAR Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
- NAR Creator Summit (Chicago)
- NAR's "More Than Opening Doors" consumer ad campaign
- NAR Realtor Studio (in development)
- resources.realtor (NAR campaign hub)
- NAR Annual Conference, New Orleans, November 6-8
- Episode 300: Dr. Lawrence Yun on the Housing Market (hustlehumblypodcast.com/300)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 11 May 2026 - 43min - 398 - 352: What to Do When Money is Tight in Real Estate
Are you hanging on by a thread but not quite ready to call it quits? This episode is for you.
We keep getting messages from agents who are struggling financially but who are not ready to throw in the towel. We get it. Real estate has a way of pulling you in, making you believe the next deal is right around the corner. But when money is actually tight, hope alone is not a business plan.
We start with a real story about Erica, a Hustle Humbly Community member who moved from California to Texas knowing absolutely no one. Instead of white-knuckling real estate with zero network and zero income, she humbled herself, went back to restaurant management, built her people, learned the market, and saved money. Then she went back into real estate full time and now has a thriving business in Texas. That is not a failure story. That is a strategy. We also share Alissa's own experience from her early days bartending private events and the moment she ran into a high-budget buyer client while working one of those events. She lost the client. It stung. But the lesson has stuck ever since.
This is not the episode where we tell you to quit. This is the one where we give you 15 practical things you can do TODAY to stabilize your business, bring in money, and protect your mindset while you ride out a tough market.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Text 5 people you haven't talked to in a while — your next deal is probably hiding in a name you've been scrolling past
Audit your business expenses and cancel anything that isn't earning its keep
Consider a "people job" (restaurant, coffee shop, gym) to bring in income while staying connected
Pick up gig work without shame — Door Dash, Instacart, TaskRabbit, Uber — whatever fits your schedule
Sort your database by last contact and reach out to anyone you haven't spoken to in 90 days
Host a free small event in the next 30 days to get yourself in front of people
Know your real number — write down your actual monthly expenses and make a plan
Stop hiding behind content creation and have real conversations with real people
Ask a past client for a referral directly using our ready-to-use script
Partner with a local business for cross promotion — lenders, inspectors, movers, boutiques
Go host or attend an open house this weekend
Revisit Episode 198 on real estate side hustles to find something that keeps you in the game
Set a 90-day minimum viable goal and work backward from that number
Find your people — surround yourself with agents who are positive, motivated, and solution-focused
Remember: surviving a hard market is a credential
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Your next deal is probably hiding in a name you've been scrolling past." Katy
"Action cures anxiety. Any action will do." James Clear via Katy
"Being in a funk and surrounding yourself with other people in a funk is not going to help you." Alissa
"This is a business. You have to think of it like a business, run it like a business, and look at your finances." Alissa
"Surviving a hard market is a credential." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 346: Desperate Agent Behavior (hustlehumblypodcast.com/346)
Episode 271: Should You Renew Your Real Estate License? (hustlehumblypodcast.com/271)
Episode 198: Real Estate Side Hustles (hustlehumblypodcast.com/198)
Episode 40: Bare Necessities (hustlehumblypodcast.com/40)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 04 May 2026 - 37min - 397 - 351: Secret Agent Problems Killing Your Business
Are you a secret agent? No, not the cool James Bond kind. We are talking about the Realtor kind who hides behind postcards, online leads, and busy work instead of actually talking to real people.
We keep getting messages from agents who are spending thousands of dollars on lead generation, farming, and marketing while avoiding the one thing that actually works: being visible. So we are revisiting this topic because clearly, y'all need to hear it again.
We start with a really honest message from a listener who spent $6,500 on a lead generation program that produced zero leads. She has been in the business since 2018, does about $8 million a year, and she is the first to admit that fear made that decision for her. She did not want to put herself out there, so she threw money at a solution that did not require her to talk to real humans. We also share a story about an agent who is incredibly involved at her kids' school but will not tell anyone she is in real estate out of fear of being salesy.
Whether you are an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, this episode is your permission slip to stop hiding and start showing up. We are breaking down the fears that keep agents invisible, sharing baby steps for shy agents, and giving you the mindset shift that changes everything: you are not being salesy, you are being of service.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The real cost of being a "secret agent" in your own real estate business
A listener's honest story about spending $6,500 on lead gen that produced zero leads
The four biggest fears keeping agents hidden and how to move past them
Why introverts can absolutely thrive in real estate
The difference between going wide and going deep with your database
Why people in your neighborhood are hiring other agents
Salesy vs. service: the mindset shift that changes everything
How to naturally tell people what you do without being "that" agent
Baby steps for shy agents: update your bio, tell five people what you do, post one thing about real estate
Why your hobbies, school involvement, and community events are your best lead gen
A roofing company sponsor story that proves advertising your business is not embarrassing
The one thing you can do this week to stop being a secret agent
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"You can't sell houses without people." Alissa
"The judgment is usually imaginary. People are not thinking about you as much as you think. They're thinking about themselves." Katy
"When you tell people what you are, they believe you. So be careful what you say about yourself." Alissa
"The important mindset shift is going from 'I'm annoying people' to 'I'm available to help.'" Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 346: Desperate Agents Do's and Don'ts (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Hustle Humbly Community (hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 - 50min - 396 - 350: Mortgage and Realtor Myths and Misconceptions
Think you know everything about how mortgages work? What about what Realtors actually do all day? Think again!
This is the final installment in our myths and misconceptions series, and we saved some good ones for last. We already tackled buyer myths and seller myths in previous episodes, and now we are wrapping it all up with the myths that surround lenders, loans, and agents.
We are kicking things off with a story about two very different lenders and why the one sending automated text messages is actually winning. (Spoiler: it has nothing to do with buying lunch.) Then we are diving into the mortgage myths that trip up buyers AND agents, from the belief that all lenders offer the same loans to the dangers of trusting online mortgage calculators.
On the agent side? We are busting wide open the idea that we "just open doors," that we are all the same, and that getting your license means you know what you are doing. (Ha!)
Whether you are a buyer trying to understand the process or an agent who needs some backup for the next time someone questions your value, this one is for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why not all lenders offer the same loan programs and how to find the right one for your client
The importance of talking to a lender BEFORE you are ready to buy
Why the interest rate is not the only thing you should be shopping
What "par rate" means and why you need to understand fee worksheets
The truth about pre-approval and rate locks (they do not last forever!)
Why online mortgage calculators can be wildly inaccurate
Do not buy furniture, a car, or anything else while waiting to close
Can you really switch lenders mid-transaction? (Please do not.)
Whether getting pre-approved actually hurts your credit
Real estate agents do way more than just open doors
The seller does not ALWAYS pay the agent's commission anymore
Agents do not get paid by their broker (no salary, no hourly wage)
Why getting your license is just the beginning, not the finish line
Agents are not available 24/7 (and should not be!)
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Be the voice for your people and educate them that there's rates and there's fees." Alissa
"Anyone who knows the answers to everything immediately, you should be very leery of." Katy
"We are not coming in to see if you can buy a house. We know you can't. We are coming in to see what three things you can do in the next 12 months to prepare." Alissa
"However you are doing it, your client needs to understand how you are paid." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 345: Buyer Myths (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Episode 348: Seller Myths (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Episode 346: Desperate Agent Do's & Don'ts (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Seller Net Sheet + Buyer Cost Sheet (hustlehumblypodcast.com/netsheet)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you are toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 - 46min - 395 - 349: How to Price a Listing
Is there a magical number when it comes to pricing a listing? No, not really. But there IS a way to walk into every listing appointment confident, prepared, and ready to have a real conversation about price with your sellers.
In this episode, we are finally tackling the how-to of pricing a listing. We have touched on it before, but today we are getting into the actual nuts and bolts of how we prep, what we bring, what we say, and how we guide sellers through one of the most important (and emotional) parts of the listing process.
We are sharing the exact questions we ask on that first call, how we prep our CMAs, the talking points we lean on every single time, and the framework that has never failed us: price, location, and condition. We also dig into the pricing pyramid, the buyer pool conversation, and why the data has to drive every decision, even when sellers want a number that the data just does not support.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The questions we ask on the very first seller call
How we prep before walking into a listing appointment
Why we never give a price before we see the house in person
How to use the CMA summary as a collaborative tool with sellers
Why price per square foot is a guide, not a rule
The three components of every listing: price, location, and condition
The pricing pyramid and how it impacts your buyer pool
What to say when sellers want a number the data does not support
How to handle the "how did you come up with this price?" question
Why pending and active listings matter as much as solds
How to set up neighborhood searches to keep sellers engaged before they list
How to talk about price reductions before they happen
The detective work that sets you apart from every other agent
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"I am a data driven person. I come from a family of appraisers. I want the numbers to fit in a box." Alissa
"I do not want you doing showings for 90 days. I want you to do it right for two weeks or less." Katy
"When I list your house and another agent calls me to ask how I came up with that price, I need to be able to support it with data." Alissa
"If we have no showings, it is the price. If we have lots of showings but no offers, it is the condition." Katy
"There is no magic number. You have to do the work, and you have to be ready to adjust." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 97: How to Do a CMA (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Episode 144: Numbers to Know (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Episode 321: Pre-Listing Appraisal: Helpful or Hindering? (hustlehumblypodcast.com)
Seller Net Sheet + Buyer Cost Sheet (hustlehumblypodcast.com/netsheet)
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 13 Apr 2026 - 52min - 394 - 348: Real Estate Seller Myths and Misconceptions
This is the follow up to our buyer myths episode, and y'all, sellers have some misconceptions of their own that we need to talk about.
We kick things off with a hilarious story about Alissa's seller who found the podcast, started listening to staging episodes while packing boxes, and voluntarily took down more decor than they even discussed. (If only every seller came with a built-in podcast habit, right?) This episode is a great one to share with your sellers, especially first timers who might need a little myth busting before they list.
From Zestimates and spring selling to price reductions and open houses, we're breaking down the biggest home selling myths that trip up sellers and agents all the time. Plus, we're sharing our individual top three myths and some real stories from the trenches.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The Zestimate: how accurate is it really, and what Zillow's own data says about their error rates
Why spring isn't automatically the best time to sell (and when winter buyers can actually work in your favor)
Breaking even on a sale doesn't mean you lost money
Your house doesn't have to be perfect to sell, but it does need to be clean & priced right
Why longer days on market doesn't always mean something is wrong with the house
The neighbor comparison trap and how to handle sellers fixated on what the house next door sold for
Why a price reduction is not a failure (and why sitting on the market for three years IS)
The truth about open houses and what they actually accomplish
Why buyers almost never prefer an allowance over the work being done
The danger of rejecting your first offer
Why your listing agent can't just "bring the buyer"
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"If we had left that stinky carpet, they would not have been able to overlook the smell, and we would still be on the market." Alissa
"Your first buyer is your buyer. They committed to putting it in writing and saying, I want to buy your house." Katy
"This is the only person asking us to the dance right now. If you want to go to the dance, this is your opportunity." Alissa
"A price change gives the message that you're not stuck." Katy
"I'm not here to design your home. I am here to neutralize it to get the biggest buyer pool." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Zillow Zestimate accuracy page (zillow.com/zestimate)
Hustle Humbly Podcast episode categories (hustlehumblypodcast.com/categories)
Hustle Humbly Community
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 06 Apr 2026 - 44min - 393 - 347: The Housing Shortage Explained
We finally did it. We sat down with the man behind the numbers AND we recorded it live at the NAR podcast studio in Chicago.
If you've ever been at a dinner party, a showing, or a closing table and gotten hit with "so... how's the market?", this episode is for you. We got to chat with Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, and y'all, we had SO many questions. We're the data nerds who cover the NAR Home Buyers and Sellers Profile Report every single year, so getting face time with the person behind all that research? It was kind of a big deal for us.
Dr. Yun has been at NAR since 2000 and stepped into the Chief Economist role in 2008 right in the middle of the foreclosure crisis. He's testified before Congress, appeared on C-SPAN, and was recognized by the Wall Street Journal for having one of the closest forecasts for 2024. Basically, if there's someone you want breaking down housing market trends for Realtors, it's him.
We cover a lot of ground in this one, from the housing shortage and what's actually being done about it, to the lock-in effect, affordability challenges for first-time buyers, capital gains tax reform, and what a "sweet spot" interest rate would even look like. Dr. Yun also shares something we weren't expecting, a really personal story about his family immigrating to the U.S. and how home ownership shaped his perspective on wealth and the American dream.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why the answer to "how's the market?" is always local — and how to explain that to clients
The housing shortage by the numbers (hint: we're still millions of units short)
Why the median age of first-time buyers hitting 40 is "the most depressing statistic" of last year
The lock-in effect: who it really impacts and why it may be loosening
Why 6% isn't actually a high rate historically but still feels impossible for today's buyers
How home prices rising 50% since pre-COVID has changed the affordability conversation
The capital gains tax exemption that hasn't been updated in 30 years (and why that matters for your sellers AND your investment properties)
What the Housing for the 21st Century Act could actually do
How investors releasing rental properties could help the first-time buyer shortage
What we need to build annually to get out of the housing shortage
Key Quotes & Takeaways:
"Is it a good time to buy? That's not the right question. Do you want to build wealth over time or not?" Dr. Lawrence Yun
"Your house was $60,000. Their rate is 6% AND the house is $400,000. It's not the same math." Alissa
"Median age of the first-time buyer is now 40. That is the most depressing statistic of last year." Dr. Lawrence Yun
"I had 24 showings and five offers in one day at $175K. The same week, a $500K listing could sit for 50 days. Same market. Totally different world." Katy
"If you are listening to this podcast, you are already ahead." Dr. Lawrence Yun
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
NAR Home Buyers and Sellers Profile Report(2025 in episode 338)
NAR Affordability Index
NAR Existing Home Sales Statistics
Housing for the 21st Century Act (bipartisan housing legislation)
Ability to Repay Act (post-2008 mortgage reform legislation)
Blue Chip Council (economic forecasting panel)
Wall Street Journal Forecasting Survey
Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 30 Mar 2026 - 38min - 392 - 346: Desperate Agent Do's and Don'ts
Feeling a little desperate in your real estate business lately? You are not alone—and this episode is your mindset reset.
Katy and Alissa are diving into the behaviors that show up when agents feel pressure to make money… and how those "desperate" decisions can quietly damage your reputation, confidence, and long-term success.
From overpricing listings just to win them, to chasing every shiny lead source, to dropping your professional standards, this episode is your honest (and loving) wake-up call.
The truth? Acting like a desperate real estate agent doesn't attract more business; it repels it.
Instead, we're sharing what to do differently so you can protect your business, maintain your professionalism, and build a career you're actually proud of, even in a slow market.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
What "desperate agent behavior" really looks like (and why it's so common right now)
How overpricing a listing can hurt your reputation long-term
Why saying "yes" to everything is actually hurting your business
The danger of chasing shiny lead sources when you feel slow
How dropping your standards can cost you future referrals
Real examples of setting boundaries with sellers (and earning respect because of it)
Why consistency beats constant rebranding or "next big thing" energy
The difference between being flexible vs. losing your boundaries
What to do instead when business feels slow or uncertain
If you've been feeling the pressure, questioning your business, or tempted to make decisions out of fear—this is the episode you need.
You don't need to be desperate. You need to be consistent, professional, and confident.
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"When you act like a desperate real estate agent, you're not gaining business; you're losing respect." Alissa
"Confidence audits your business. Desperation just reacts." Katy
"If you let your clients run your business, you're doing them a disservice." Alissa
"You don't need balloons to sell a house; you need people walking through the door." Alissa
"Referral-based business is a slow burn… but chasing shiny objects will burn you out." Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 - 39min - 391 - 345.5: BONUS: We Got Invited to NAR and Here's What Happened
We got invited to NAR headquarters in Chicago for a small influencer summit and honestly? We thought the first email was fake and deleted it. 😂
But once we realized this was a real invitation, we packed our bags, flew out on Katy's birthday, and headed to the "mothership" to hear directly from NAR's leadership team about what has gone wrong, what they're trying to fix, and where they think the Realtor brand is headed next.
In this bonus episode, we're giving you the full download. No sugarcoating. No blind praise. Just our honest take on what we saw, what we heard, and what felt different this time.
We're chatting about the tiny guest list, the giant chandelier, the very fancy boardroom, and the leaders now trying to course correct after lawsuits, leadership failures, and a few rough years for the association.
We're also sharing what surprised us most, what gave us hope, and why we still think time will tell.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why we almost deleted the NAR invitation for good
What it was like walking into NAR headquarters in Chicago
How we ended up recording in NAR's podcast studio
Our first impressions of CEO Nykia Wright and the new leadership team
What NAR says it is doing to rebuild trust and professionalism
Why local boards may be facing some major changes
What we learned about NAR advocacy, lobbying, and where your dues are going
The part of Lawrence Yun's presentation that really caught our attention
Why the new consumer ad campaign actually impressed us
What it felt like to be in the room as working Realtors still in the trenches
Why we left feeling heard, hopeful, and still appropriately skeptical
Our honest thoughts on whether NAR can really get this train back on the tracks
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Katy: "We want to be an advocate for NAR, but not a mouthpiece for NAR." Alissa: "Hustle Humbly is here to help bring professionalism back to the Realtor brand. That is essentially NAR's goal as well." Katy: "We're not here to sugarcoat it. We're just going to relay what happened and give you our thoughts." Alissa: "I feel optimistic about the people they have in place and how new they are." Katy: "We really needed to record this for posterity so we can come back and see if the train stayed on the tracks."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
NAR consumer ad campaign: "Right by you"
NAR shareable market graphics for agents
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Wed, 18 Mar 2026 - 1h 03min - 390 - 345: Real Estate Buyer Myths & Misconceptions
There are a lot of opinions floating around about buying a house and, unfortunately, many of them are just plain wrong. In this episode, Katy and Alissa dive into some of the most common home buying myths they hear from buyers and break down what's actually true.
From the classic "you need 20% down" to the idea that new construction doesn't need an inspection, these myths can cause confusion, hesitation, and sometimes costly mistakes. The truth is that buying a home is full of nuance, and having the right information (and the right Realtor!) makes all the difference.
To make things interesting, Katy and Alissa review more than 30 common buyer misconceptions and secretly choose their personal top myths along the way. At the end, they compare notes to reveal the biggest misconceptions they think buyers still believe today.
If you're currently house hunting, planning to buy soon, or just want to understand the process better, this episode is packed with helpful clarity.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why you do NOT need 20% down to buy a home
Why the highest offer doesn't always win
The truth about inspections (especially new construction!)
Why calling the number on the sign may not help you
Why pre-approval is essential before touring homes
The reality of interest rates and affordability
The problem with waiting for the "perfect" house
What really happens when deals fall apart
Whether foreclosures are actually a good deal
Why every buyer needs their own representation
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Katy: "No one gets the perfect house. Not even if they build it from scratch." Alissa: "The highest offer doesn't always win. Terms matter just as much as price." Katy: "Please don't call the number on the sign. You need someone representing you." Alissa: "You can't even start house hunting until you know what you're approved for." Katy: "A home inspection isn't a crystal ball—it's a snapshot of the house today."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 149: The Forever Home Myth
All products and free resources are located at hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 16 Mar 2026 - 50min - 389 - 344: Selling in a Softer Market After a Bidding War Era Purchase
If you sold homes during 2020–2022, you likely helped buyers compete in bidding wars, escalate over asking, and stretch to win. Now? Some of those same clients are calling because they need to sell.
And the market is… softer.
In this episode, Katy and Alissa walk through what it really looks like when COVID-era buyers need to resell in a different market than they purchased in. From tight equity situations to emotional listing appointments, they're sharing honest stories, practical scripts, and how to protect your own mindset while delivering hard news.
This isn't about panic. It's about professionalism.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why today's "soft market" is not the 2008 crash
How to handle sellers who are breaking even (or barely making money)
What to say when the comps don't support their expectations
Why condition matters even more when you're pushing price
The danger of "just offering an allowance"
How to walk sellers through worst-case scenarios using a net sheet
When renting might be the better move
How to avoid carrying your clients' emotional stress
If you're feeling that sinking-in-your-stomach feeling when running CMAs lately, this episode will help you reframe the situation, set expectations early, and guide your sellers with clarity and confidence.
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Katy: "Devastating news isn't breaking even. Devastating news is having to beg the bank to let you sell."
Alissa: "You can care about your clients without carrying their stress inside your body."
Katy: "If you're pushing the price above the comps, your condition has to be A-plus."
Alissa: "I can't want this more than you do."
Katy: "Are these the numbers you were expecting?"
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Seller Net Sheet + Buyer Cost Sheet: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/netsheet
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 09 Mar 2026 - 54min - 388 - 343: The Mindset Shift You Need This Spring
Spring hits… and suddenly everything feels loud.
New listings. Awards. "Sold in one day!" posts. Agent tours. Realtor prom season. And before you know it, you're questioning everything.
Why does everyone else look busier than me? Should I be doing more? Am I behind?
In this episode, we're talking about the Realtor Comparison Trap and the mindset shift you need this spring to protect your confidence, your peace, and your professionalism.
Spring is a naturally busy season in real estate. But it's also the season where comparison creeps in hard. Between awards ceremonies, fresh listings popping up daily, and social media highlight reels, it's easy to feel like you're either behind… or not doing enough.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why spring market noise can mess with your mindset
Realtor prom season and the awards comparison spiral
How to reframe other agents' success (community over competition)
Preparing your systems before busy hits
What NOT to add to your plate just because others are doing it
A powerful mindset trick for driving past someone else's listing sign
Cleaning up your social media algorithm to protect your peace
How to post professionally without hurting the Realtor brand
Why being present in your office can create unexpected opportunity
A refreshing buyer story that proves timing and priorities matter
Truthfully, comparison is internal. If someone's marketing makes you spiral, that's your cue to check your mindset, not attack theirs.
This is your permission slip to:
- Mute what doesn't serve you
- Protect your boundaries
- Focus on your systems
- Stay in your lane
- Celebrate other agents without shrinking yourself
The spring market doesn't require panic. It requires preparation. And a healthy mindset.
You're not behind. You're building.
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Katy: "Every sign that isn't mine means the market is moving. That's a good thing."
Alissa: "If someone's marketing messes with your mindset, that's your cue to look inward."
Katy: "We don't need to throw away great to try out good."
Katy: "Busy doesn't always mean better. Prepared is better."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 33 – Preparing for Busy
Episode 17 – What to Do When You're New or Slow
Episode 331 – A Realtor Leaves Her Phone for a Week
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 02 Mar 2026 - 38min - 387 - 342: How to Win the Listing Early + Listing Prep Timeline for Sellers
If you've ever had a seller say, "We're probably about a year out… but can you come tell us what to do?" — this episode is for you.
Today we're talking about how to win the listing early without wasting your time, burning yourself out, or giving away all your value. Because here's the truth: the agent who shows up first often wins.
But how early is too early? And what should a listing prep timeline for sellers actually look like?
We break down the mindset shift, the boundaries, and the strategy behind pre-listing appointments — especially when they're not ready yet.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why the highest-performing agents go on pre-listing visits early
The realistic listing prep timeline for sellers (hint: it's longer than they think)
What sellers should NOT do too far in advance (step away from the mulch)
Interior prep vs. exterior timing
How to avoid losing listings after giving staging advice
When to use a checklist — and when to show up in person
Protecting your time with commitment letters or pre-market agreements
What to do when they choose another agent after you've done the work
Real-life stories of listings lost… and listings rewarded
We also share a powerful reminder: sometimes helping someone prep their home changes more than just their sale price.
And don't forget — we're collecting TOASTS! If you're a buyer, seller, Realtor, or client who wants to celebrate a Realtor who made a difference, send your toast to:
team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"The agent who shows up first is usually the one who wins." – Katy "Phase one of listing prep is phase one of moving." – Alissa "You're not a free checklist. You're a service-based business." – Katy "Sometimes the sooner you get in the house, the better, even if they're a year out." – Alissa "There's no 100% protection in real estate… but there is real estate karma." – Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Hustle Humbly Staging Prep Checklist (Freebie)
Pre-Listing Appointment Email Template(included in Email Templates 101)
Pre-Market / Commitment Agreement (Broker-specific form)
Vendor List (painters, storage units, junk haulers, etc.)
Episode 143: Working with Sellers: Pre-Listing Prep
Episode 276: How Do You Stage a House? A Guide for Consumers
Epidsode 45: The Listing Interview
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 - 46min - 386 - 341: Clean Contracts: How to Avoid Closing Day Surprises
We've talked about loopholes and contract problems before, but avoiding the messiness of real estate is one of those topics you can never cover too many times.
In this episode, we're talking about all the tiny contract decisions that don't feel like a big deal until suddenly they are. Missing initials. Blank lines. Verbal promises. Appliances that magically disappear. Furniture negotiations that never end. You know the ones.
This conversation was sparked by a broker who reached out to us after stepping into a compliance role and realizing just how messy agents can get with paperwork. From there, we went deep into why clean contracts matter, how verbal agreements create risk, and why adding "just one more thing" to a purchase agreement can blow up an otherwise smooth deal.
This episode is part pep talk, part cautionary tale, and part reminder that professionalism protects everyone involved.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why avoiding the messiness of real estate starts with treating paperwork like a legal document (because it is)
How missing initials, blanks, and timestamps can create real liability
Why verbal agreements are only good for setting expectations, not protecting deals
The risks of "knowledge only" conversations during due diligence
Appliances, furniture, grills, boats, and why movables make contracts messy fast
How lenders and appraisers view non-real-estate items in contracts
Why clean offers are often the strongest offers
A reminder that it's not a problem until it's a problem
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Alissa: "It's not a problem until it's a problem. And then it's a big problem." Katy: "The more things you add to a contract, the more things can go wrong." Alissa: "Verbal agreements are only good for setting expectations, not protecting deals." Katy: "Clean offers win. Every single time." Alissa: "Professionalism isn't about being perfect. It's about being careful."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 240: Loopholes in Real Estate
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 - 55min - 385 - 340: Real Estate Private Listings and Coming Soon: What's the Hype?
Private listings, office exclusives, coming soon statuses, Zillow, Compass… whew. In this episode, Katy and Alissa tackle one of the messiest conversations happening in real estate right now: private listings in real estate and what they actually mean for agents, buyers, and sellers.
With lawsuits flying, MLS rules evolving, and brokerages rolling out their own "exclusive" systems, it's getting harder to tell what's ethical, what's legal, and what's truly in the client's best interest. Katy breaks down the Zillow vs. Compass lawsuit, while Alissa shares real-life scenarios where private listings and coming soon statuses can either protect a client—or quietly hurt them.
This episode isn't about picking sides. It's about transparency, consumer trust, and making sure agents aren't letting billion-dollar companies dictate how they serve their clients.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
What private listings, office exclusives, and coming soon listings actually mean
Why pocket listings quietly disappeared—and came back with new names
The Zillow vs. Compass lawsuit and why listings are the real battleground
How private listings affect buyers, sellers, and fair housing
When coming soon listings can work *in a seller's favor*
Why MLS exposure still matters for pricing and trust
The real ethical issue agents should be paying attention to
Key Quotes & Takeaways
Alissa: "If everyone starts hiding listings, it becomes a fair housing nightmare." Katy: "This isn't about agents or platforms—it's about listings. And listings belong to the consumer." Alissa: "If the house is ready and the photos are done, it should be on the market." Katy: "Open markets create trust. Closed systems create confusion." Alissa: "If your client doesn't understand what you're doing, you're not serving them."
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Listing Agreement Cover Letter
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 09 Feb 2026 - 1h 03min - 384 - 339: Dual Agency Gone Wrong
We've talked about dual agency a lot over the years. We've shared why it can work, when it feels straightforward, and how staying factual and neutral has always been the goal.
In this episode, Alissa shares a real transaction that happened a while ago where dual agency went wrong. And although a lot of time has passed, the lessons still matter.
Things didn't fall apart because of a bad inspection. Not because of shady advice. But because of trust, distance, emotions, and a perfect storm of circumstances that turned a clean deal into a full-on gut punch.
We're walking through the entire story from start to finish so you can hear exactly what happened, what we would do differently, and the lessons every Realtor can take from it. Even if dual agency is illegal in your state, there are still big takeaways here around inspections, communication, and how quickly things can unravel when buyers don't feel secure.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
Why dual agency felt simple… until it didn't
How out-of-state buyers and trust issues complicated everything
What happens when buyers skip the inspection (and won't FaceTime)
Why a clean inspection report can still kill a deal
The emotional toll of representing both sides
The social media post that officially ended the relationship
What we would change next time
How to protect your professionalism when things go sideways
This episode is honest, vulnerable, and very real. It's podcast therapy, y'all. Take what works, leave the rest, and let this be your reminder that even experienced Realtors can get humbled.
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"I genuinely believe I handled it right, but dual agency made it impossible for them to hear me." -Alissa
"Sometimes you do everything correctly and it still goes wrong." -Katy
"A clean inspection report doesn't matter if trust is already broken." -Alissa
"This is why residential real estate is emotional, not logical." -Katy
"This was my karma moment, and I will never forget how it felt." -Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
License code: UDHIJOOTAN3SJMZG
Mon, 02 Feb 2026 - 57min - 383 - 338: Buyers, Sellers, and the Stats That Matter
What if everything you thought you knew about homebuyers and sellers was wrong?
Every year we dive into the gold mine of information inside the NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers and the Member Profile for Realtors, and y'all… the 2025 data might be the most shocking yet. In this 4th annual deep dive, we're bringing you the stats that matter—and breaking down what they actually mean for your real estate business in 2026.
From skyrocketing median ages to shifts in how (and if) clients are finding their agents, this episode is your go-to resource for understanding the real people buying and selling homes right now. Spoiler: they probably don't look like the people you've been marketing to.
We also chat about why real estate websites are shockingly useless, who's staying in homes longer than ever, and how to stop worrying about FSBOs entirely. Plus, Katy reveals why this data can sharpen your confidence as a Realtor and even improve your listing presentations, and Alissa shares a vulnerable moment when she almost let imposter syndrome cost her a listing.
Grab your coffee (or your calculator) and let's talk buyers, sellers, and the wild stats behind them.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The median age of buyers and sellers (and why it matters)
The shift in first-time buyer demographics
How long people are staying in their homes now
What agents think is causing market stagnation
The #1 way buyers and sellers choose their Realtor
For Sale By Owner: how many really do it, and what they lose
What types of agents are thriving—and who's leaving the industry
The truth about paid leads, teams, and real estate income
What the data says about your social media efforts (brace yourself)
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"The NAR report isn't just stats. It's a confidence builder, a client education tool, and a strategy guide." – Katy
"We think everyone is like us, but they're not. That's why this data is good—it bursts the bubble." – Alissa
"If you're talking to the wrong people, your marketing will never work. These numbers tell us who's actually buying and selling." – Katy
"Only 6% of Realtors have real estate as their first career. That means most of us are figuring this out as a second act." – Alissa
"Almost 30% of agents net less than $10,000 a year. We have to stop telling new agents that success is instant." – Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 26 Jan 2026 - 1h 15min - 382 - 337: Solving Real Estate Situations
Ever wish you could peek into other agents' most challenging situations and hear exactly how to handle them? That's what this episode is all about. We asked our listeners to send us their real estate dilemmas—and they delivered!
In Episode 337, we're analyzing real-life real estate scenarios: anxious buyers, builder referral incentives, tricky team splits, disclosure dilemmas, expired listings, and more. Some of these situations are tricky. Others are all-too-familiar. But every single one gets our honest take and plenty of actionable advice.
We cover the real reason clients push title companies, how to build agent referral networks that *actually* work, and what happens when you're asked to list a property next to your own rentals. Plus, Alissa shares how working with "difficult" clients early in her career turned into high-end referrals later. And Katy reminds us: don't guilt-trip yourself out of success just because your lead generation strategy has evolved.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- How to handle buyers who move too fast
- Tips for buyer consults on the fly
- New construction vs resale: what's better for a new agent?
- Should you disclose you own the property next door?
- Builder incentives and loyalty dilemmas
- Lender/title kickbacks and your ethical obligations
- When a deal falls apart—and whether to leave a bad review
- Real talk on referral networks: what works and what's a waste
- What to do when "difficult" clients land in your lap
- Should agents retire and sell their book of business?
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"Just because a builder offers incentives doesn't mean it's best for your client or worse. You have to get the fee sheets and compare." – Alissa
"Doing your buyer consult at the first showing is totally acceptable, just be prepared and flexible." – Katy
"Using your preferred lender is a luxury, not a requirement. The client comes first." – Alissa
"If you're getting enough business that you don't have time to look for business... what's the problem?" – Katy
"If you can handle the difficult clients, you can earn the better ones." – Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Email Templates 101 – http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101 – http://agentsystems101.com
FREE Database Template – http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
🎵 Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 19 Jan 2026 - 52min - 381 - 336: Growing Realtor Confidence in Your First Three Years
You got your license… now what?
The first three years in real estate can feel like complete chaos. And if you're like a lot of newer agents, you might find yourself wondering, "Am I just too sensitive for this?" In this episode, we're tackling a topic that no one seems to talk about: how to build *true* Realtor confidence in those early years — especially when you feel like you're fumbling your way through.
What sparked this conversation? A heartfelt listener email asking for help navigating agent-to-agent interactions, self-doubt, sensitivity, and the struggle to find confidence. Katy and Alissa get real about what those early years *really* look like, how long it actually takes to build a solid business, and what mindset shifts and systems will make all the difference.
This one's packed with stories, pep talks, and some tough love (with humor, of course!) to help you stop overthinking, start showing up, and grow into the confident, professional Realtor you're meant to be.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- When your "3-year clock" really starts ticking
- Why being licensed doesn't equal experience
- How veteran agents can sniff out a lack of confidence
- Mistakes new agents make in agent-to-agent communication
- How systems (like email templates!) instantly boost confidence
- Why your job is NOT to make everyone happy
- How to practice confidence — before you have clients
- Where to turn for help when your broker isn't available
- Tips for setting expectations and avoiding emotional rollercoasters
- Power poses + mindset tricks to build immediate confidence
- Why every transaction impacts your long-term business
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"You don't need five years to be good — you just need systems, education, and the willingness to do the work." – Katy
"The three-year clock doesn't start until you actually start working." – Alissa
"Confidence comes from clarity. If you don't know the steps, you won't feel strong." – Katy
"Every client is your walking billboard — good or bad." – Alissa
"Your job isn't to make everyone happy — it's to represent your client well." – Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Amy Cuddy's TED Talk: "Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are"
Episode 146: Confidence and Self Doubt
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 12 Jan 2026 - 51min - 380 - 335: Before You Join the "Real Estate Gym"
It's a new year, and with that comes a tidal wave of motivation, new planners, gym memberships—and a lot of Realtors about to throw out their entire business in the name of "starting fresh." 😬
This episode is your permission slip to *not* join the "Real Estate Gym" of shiny tools, overhauls, and burnout waiting to happen.
We're talking about the very real trap of doing *too much too fast* in January—new CRM, new lead gen, new branding, new content plan—and why it never sticks.
Instead, we walk you through how to build real momentum by focusing on what's already working. Spoiler alert: Your tools aren't broken. You're just bored. And that's normal.
We're sharing our favorite quotes from Atomic Habits, calling out decision fatigue, and giving you practical steps to stay consistent—even when the spark fades.
✨ Before you sign up for another system, challenge, or freebie you'll never use—listen to this.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- What shiny object syndrome looks like in real estate
- Why overhauling everything rarely works
- The difference between boredom and failure
- How to audit what actually worked last year
- Setting goals based on your real business data
- How to re-use what you already have
- Why we aren't "motivational speakers" (and what we are instead)
- How to build slow, sustainable momentum that lasts
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"Tools don't create habits." — Katy
"You're not failing. You're bored. And that's a very different thing." — Katy
"Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become." — Alissa quoting Atomic Habits
"Boundaries aren't permission to not work—they're protection so you can keep working." — Alissa
"Stop changing everything. Start using what you already have." — Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Hustle Humbly Community Membership
Episode 178: "Spruce Up Your Business"
Email Templates 101 — http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101 — http://agentsystems101.com
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 05 Jan 2026 - 31min - 379 - 334: What to Say When Friends or Family Use Another Agent
It's happened to all of us at some point—your cousin, college roommate, or neighbor posts that they just bought or sold a house… but you weren't the agent. Ouch. If you've ever wondered how to handle it when a friend or family member uses someone else, this replay of one of our most-loved episodes has the clarity and pep talk you need.
Originally aired as Episode 165, this candid conversation dives deep into the reality of *working with friends and family in real estate*. From professional boundaries to emotional resilience, we share our personal stories—rejections included—and offer tangible tips to protect your mindset and run a smooth business, even when things get awkward.
Whether you're new to the business or 10 years in, this episode will remind you: it's not personal, it's business. And you've got what it takes to stay professional, kind, and confident through it all.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- How to professionally respond when loved ones don't choose you
- Tips for setting boundaries when working with people you know
- Scripts to request a referral (without begging)
- Why it's important to treat friends and family like real clients
- How to turn rejection into future opportunity
- The importance of systems to help you stay consistent with every client
- Real stories of rejection—and how we survived them
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"You can't expect your friends and family to use you. But you can always act like a professional—so they'll think of you next time." – Katy
"Don't take it personally. It's not you, it's them. Seriously." – Alissa
"Treat your cousin just like you would any other client—systems, email templates, boundaries and all." – Katy
"If your friends think you hate real estate, why would they send you a referral?" – Alissa
"Just because you know them doesn't mean you skip the buyer consultation." – Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Email Templates 101 — http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101 — http://agentsystems101.com
Build Your Own Business 101 — https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
FREE Database Template — https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Membership Community — https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 29 Dec 2025 - 1h 03min - 378 - 333: Boundaries During a Busy Season
Let's talk about the guilt loop so many Realtors get stuck in: when you're at work, you feel guilty about missing life — and when you're at home, you feel guilty about stepping away from your business. In this special replay of our Hustle Humbly Community Live Zoom from November, we're diving deep into how to set boundaries during a season that's naturally full of busyness, distraction, and high expectations (hello, holidays).
This conversation is packed with relatable stories, powerful mindset shifts, and real advice from agents like you who are trying to find a way to serve their clients *and* show up for their families. Whether you're fighting burnout, feeling pulled in too many directions, or just wondering if it's okay to take a day off — this chat is your permission slip.
We also hear from our friend Emily, who stepped away from real estate for a year after a devastating loss, and came back to have her best year ever. Her six takeaways are gold for any Realtor who wants to build a business that serves their life, not one that consumes it.
Here's what we cover in this episode: - The mental load of the holiday season and how to protect your time - The quote that helped Alissa let go of the guilt (thanks RBG!) - The false urgency of real estate — and how to recognize *real* emergencies - Why "no" is a full sentence - What it means to actually build a business that serves you - The power of scheduled texts, second phone lines, and a literal "brick" to lock your apps - Why social time *is* work time (hello, database!) - How one agent stepped away from her business — and came back stronger
Key Quotes & Takeaways "It's not that everything is urgent — it's that we're treating everything like it is." — Alissa "Your job is a gift. Let's stop letting guilt ruin both sides of our life." — Katy "Burnout is not a badge of honor." — Emily Nealy "They don't need access to you. They need clarity." — Emily Nealy "If anyone's getting your leftovers, make sure it's not your family." — Alissa Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 212: [Does Time Blocking Work for Real Estate?](https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/212) Episode: [What To Do When You're New or Slow](https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/189) Book: *The Seven Deadly Sins of Sales* by Leigh Brown Book: *Boundaries* by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend Tools: [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com) | [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) | [Free Database Template](https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere) Hustle Humbly Community membership: hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Mon, 22 Dec 2025 - 1h 00min - 377 - 332: The Mental Load of Real Estate
The truth is: buying or selling a house can feel like a full-blown identity crisis. Realtors know it, clients feel it, and now we have a licensed therapist here to explain *why* it all gets so emotionally messy.
In this episode we welcome Katy's former client and current number one referrer, Mary Ruiz, LPC. She's not just a real estate success story — she's now a licensed professional counselor (and a great one at that). We chat about the mental health rollercoaster that often comes with real estate: from renovations and relocations to the unexpected triggers that show up when people face big change. Mary shares why even competent, confident people often spiral emotionally during a transaction, and how *Realtors can support clients* without carrying the weight of everyone's emotions.
We're talking about therapy, boundaries, client meltdowns, and the emotional expectations people carry into real estate decisions. This is a must-listen for any Realtor who's ever felt like an untrained therapist.
Mary Ruiz, LPC is a licensed professional counselor and the practice owner of Ruiz Counseling and Consulting. Counseling is a second career for Mary and she has been practicing since May of 2022. Mary works with teens and adults seeking a safe and empowering therapy space. While she works with a variety of mental health concerns, Mary is passionate about working with autistic people, and those diagnosed with ADHD and/or OCD.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- Why therapy and real estate overlap more than you think
- The mental toll of buying, selling, building, and renovating
- What neurodivergent clients may struggle with during moves
- Why confident people often break down during transactions
- Tips for helping clients regulate their emotions
- When (and how) to set boundaries with difficult clients
- Grounding techniques to use during emotional conversations
- What Realtors can do to protect their own mental well-being
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"The kindest thing you can do is tell someone the truth." — Mary Ruiz
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Learn more about Mary's practice: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/mary-ruiz-lpc-ruiz-counseling-and-consulting-baton-rouge-la/1015858
Contact Mary: mary.ruiz.therapy@gmail.com
Realtor Resources: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/resources
Join the Hustle Humbly Community: https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 15 Dec 2025 - 1h 05min - 376 - 331: A Realtor Leaves Their Phone for a Week
Meet Kim — a top-producing agent, team leader, and mom — who did the *unthinkable*: she took a vacation without her phone. Twice.
Kim Lafleur is a Louisiana Realtor with over 655 homes sold and $121M+ in career volume. Ranked in the top 10 out of 1,900 agents in her market, Kim is known for her client-focused approach, leadership, and ability to guide families through big life moves with care and strategy.
In this candid and inspiring chat, Kim joins Katy and Alissa to share what led her to surrender her phone (literally at the airport), how she prepped her business and team for the handoff, and what she learned about control, trust, and boundaries. Spoiler: nothing fell apart.
From tips on how to set up your support system to stories about burner phones, birthday trips, and "bricking" your apps, this episode will have you seriously questioning how attached you really are to your phone — and if it's time to take your own real estate phone detox.
If you've ever wished you could *just step away* from the constant pings and pressure of being "on" 24/7, this one is for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- Why a phone-free vacation even seemed possible
- How Kim planned for her absence (and who stepped up)
- Real talk: what actually happened while she was gone
- What tools and systems made it possible to disconnect
- How to find *your* Leslie (aka the person who'll take your phone)
- What "bricking" your apps is — and why it's life-changing
- Tips for detaching from your phone even *while* you're home
- Thoughts on compensation when someone covers your business
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"Just having the phone near you is enough to take you out of the moment." — Kim
"We think we're the only ones who can do it all — but we're not. And that's kind of freeing." — Alissa
"The hardest part wasn't leaving the phone. It was admitting I didn't need it." — Kim
"Give yourself permission to be unavailable. You'll be shocked how much still works." — Katy
"It's not about the phone. It's about letting go of control." — Kim
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
- Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
- All our resources: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
—
Music:
"Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/
"The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life
"Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 08 Dec 2025 - 52min - 375 - 330: Real Estate Cancellations: When Communication Could Have Saved the Deal
Ever been blindsided by a cancellation that just didn't make sense? This week we're sharing a raw, real story about a transaction that went sideways—only to come full circle weeks(and $15,000) later.
In this episode, Alissa opens up about a recent experience with a buyer who backed out of a deal unexpectedly. What followed was a perfect storm of assumptions, zero communication, and a text message that dropped a cancellation bomb—with no phone call to discuss it first.
We're diving deep into the best practices & etiquette for Real Estate Cancellations: when you should call instead of texting, how to manage your client's emotions, and what happens when professionalism goes out the window. Spoiler alert: it cost the buyer way more than they expected.
This is your podcast therapy session and masterclass in cancellation communication all rolled into one. Because y'all, some deals really *can* be saved—with the right conversation.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
- The shocking cancellation that inspired this story
- Stats on how often cancellations are happening (hint: it's more than you think)
- What *should* happen before a cancellation is sent
- What to disclose—and when
- How to exit gracefully and protect relationships for the long game
- Tips for co-op agent professionalism in tricky transactions
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"There was a way to stop that cancellation. The buyer is still interested. They just never had the conversation." – Alissa
"You owe that agent a phone call before you send a text or an email with a cancellation." – Katy
"When we do a transaction together, we're a team. That's why it's called a co-op agent." – Alissa
"If I don't advise you based on my knowledge, then I'm not doing my job." – Katy
"Your response sets the tone for your reputation. Handle cancellations with grace and professionalism." – Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
- [Episode 113: Be the Boss](https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/113)
- [Episode 255 & 24: Client Management](https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/255)
- [Episode 210: Buyer Consultation](https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/210)
- [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com)
- [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com)
- [Build Your Own Business 101](https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob)
- FREE Database Setup Guide: https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
## 🎵 MUSIC CREDITS - "Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ - "The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life - "Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 01 Dec 2025 - 1h 10min - 374 - 329: Real Estate Is Just Making Friends (Then Following Up)
When we say "digital database," we *don't* mean your phone contacts or your Facebook friends list… but those people? They're part of the journey.
This episode is a mindset-reset and practical guide to growing your sphere the natural way—through actual conversations, genuine connections, and organic follow-up. Katy and Alissa are breaking down what it really looks like to be intentional with every person you meet, without overthinking it or trying to "convert" someone into a lead the moment they shake your hand.
From pumpkin patch meet-ups to casual gym chats and birthday parties, Alissa shares real-life examples of how simple social connections (and friendly follow-up) have grown her business over time. No gimmicks, no pressure, just being present, paying attention, and taking the next logical step.
If you've ever felt weird about friending someone you met last week or wondered if you "should" reach out again, this is your permission slip to stop overcomplicating it.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
What the "digital database" really is (and what it's not)
How to follow up with people you meet *without being salesy*
Real-life examples from school field trips, birthday parties & the gym
The importance of timing when adding new connections online
How to clean up your social media to support your business
What to say (and not say) when you're reconnecting online
The birthday method for engaging your sphere meaningfully
How to grow your database when you're new or need more people
Why being intentional > chasing leads
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"Being intentional isn't creepy; it's the beginning of connection." Alissa
"The second you meet someone, take the next step. Don't wait three months, that's when it gets weird." Katy
"We're not stalking. We're making friends. That's literally the job." Alissa
"The digital clutter in your sphere might be hiding the people who actually matter." Katy
"Send the friend request. Comment on the post. Show up like the nice, normal human you are." Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Build Your Own Business: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Free Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Mon, 24 Nov 2025 - 38min - 373 - 328: Realtor Q&A: You Asked, We Answered
Sometimes you just need another agent to say what everyone else is thinking. In this Q&A episode, Katy and Alissa are answering the real-life, in-the-trenches questions Realtors are navigating every single day. We're talking client expectations, boundaries, broker advice that doesn't make sense, and what actually works in today's market.
When y'all send questions to our inbox, you never disappoint. And this batch covers everything from inspections to communication issues to luxury listings to motherhood to what we'd do if we didn't work in real estate. It's honest, funny, and full of practical advice you can use immediately.
Here's what we chat about in this episode:
Should Realtors go to inspections (and why brokers sometimes say not to)
What to do when clients break agreements or try to cut you out
The triggers we use to stay on top of communication
Whether you really need a second phone or Google Voice
Email marketing: what actually works and what your clients don't care about
What to charge when covering showings for another agent
Rental property updates from Alissa
And what job we'd take if we ever left real estate
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"You're not the inspector just because you showed up. You're the professional who guides your client through the process." —Katy
"If someone doesn't want to work with me, I'm not going to fight them about it—but I am going to enforce the contract." —Alissa
"Most boundary problems disappear when you communicate like a professional from the very beginning." —Katy
"I'm not trying to be right, I'm trying to be happy—and sometimes that means letting people be wrong." —Alissa
"There is no such thing as an easy closing. That's why clients need us." —Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
Hustle Humbly Newsletter: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/newsletter
Trello training inside Hustle Humbly Community
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Mon, 17 Nov 2025 - 56min - 372 - 327: Avoiding Surprises with Seller Net Sheets & Buyer Cost Sheets
We've all heard the horror stories: buyers showing up to closing short on cash, or sellers shocked at their proceeds. Yikes. The truth? These moments don't have to happen — not if you're consistently using buyer cost sheets & seller net sheets.
In this episode, we're breaking down exactly how we use these powerful tools with our clients to build trust, confidence, and calm. And here's the good news: it's not complicated, it's just math + mindset.
We're talking through every single line item on a net sheet, what to include, when to deliver it, and how to tailor it to each unique buyer or seller situation. Whether you're a seasoned agent or brand new to real estate, this episode will help you become more confident when talking about money — and ultimately give your clients the clarity they deserve.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
How to create a seller net sheet that builds trust
Using cost sheets with buyers to avoid surprise expenses
What to do when a seller doesn't understand closing costs
Smart strategies for buyer offers based on actual numbers
Handling contingent clients with dual net/cost sheets
Becoming fluent and confident with money conversations
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"If your client is surprised at closing, you haven't done your job." — Alissa
"We use net sheets to keep our sellers grounded — and focused on the bottom line." — Katy
"Every offer gets a net sheet. That's how we avoid emotional chaos." — Alissa
"A buyer cost sheet shows them what's real — not just what they 'hope' it costs." — Katy
"Don't avoid money conversations. That's where your value really shines." — Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 232: Buyer Brokerage: How To
Episode 295: Why Buyer Agents Struggle to Get Paid
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Connor Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 10 Nov 2025 - 49min - 371 - 326: Managing Sellers with Confidence
Managing your sellers doesn't have to feel like herding cats — or losing your mind. In this episode, we're diving deep into seller client management and giving you the tools (and mindset) to confidently take charge of every stage of the listing process.
From deciding whether you even want the listing, to coaching your seller through prep, pricing, updates, negotiations, and closing — this episode covers it all. And yes, we even tackle what to do when your seller flat-out ignores your advice or refuses to clean up their clutter (it happens).
This episode was born from your questions — we noticed a theme: y'all are struggling with seller management, and we are here to help. We structured this chat to walk through each step of the seller experience, from first contact to final key handoff, with mindset reminders and real-world solutions for the most common challenges agents face.
If you've ever second-guessed whether to take a listing, worried about pricing too high, or stressed about communicating with a ghosting seller — this one's for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
How to decide if you should even take the listing
Why mindset matters more than you think
Setting expectations around budget, prep, and condition
Giving honest advice without hurting feelings
Managing sellers during staging, photos, and price drops
How to provide regular updates that actually work
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"Ask yourself: do you actually want this listing? If not, it's okay to walk away." — Katy
"We're not here to be doormats. You can be kind and still be in charge." — Alissa
"Your seller only moves every 10 years. You do this every day. Be the professional." — Katy
"The market will tell you what the right price is. Don't be afraid of the data." — Alissa
"If you're not updating your sellers, they think you've disappeared." — Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 183: How to Sell a House
Episode 276: How to Stage Your House
Episode 73: Building a Staging Closet
Episode 65: Contingency Planning for Buyers/Sellers
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 03 Nov 2025 - 1h 00min - 370 - 325: Haunted Houses and Realtor Horror Stories
Haunted house season is here, and we're back with more of your haunted house real estate stories! This annual episode is equal parts creepy, hilarious, and deeply memorable — and we're sharing everything from friendly ghosts to record players spinning in power-less foreclosures.
Real estate is wild on a normal day, but when things start slamming, whispering, and levitating? That's next-level spooky.
These stories come straight from our listeners and fellow Realtors, and we've got it all: haunted listing appointments, ghost dogs, creepy dolls, unexplained cold spots, and even a spirit who just wanted his research delivered back to the university.
While none of these haunted happenings are exactly by the book, they're certainly unforgettable. If you've ever had a weird gut feeling on a showing, this episode will make you feel seen... and maybe a little haunted.
Here's what you'll hear in this episode:
A closet door that kept opening… and a ghost whispering "get out"
A record player spinning in a power-less house
Ghostly buyers who vanished mid-showing
A photographer who saw someone move — in an empty home
The professor who researched ghosts and maybe became one
Cold spots, angry basement doors, and haunted flip houses
A house no one saw — and buyers who didn't last two months
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"I was like, get out… and the ghost said, get out."
"I felt a cold, angry presence — then the door slammed in my face."
"If you're going to stay, that's fine. Just stop turning the boiler on."
"The professor just wanted his research archived. Once we did, the heat finally stayed off."
"That was the only way she could've sold it… someone had to buy it sight unseen."
Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com
Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one
Rate & Review the Show: Love what you hear? Leave us a review at https://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Mon, 27 Oct 2025 - 48min - 369 - 324: Navigating Contingent Contracts in Real Estate
Contingencies are back — and they're anything but simple.
In today's market, contingent offers are popping up left and right, and we've got stories. From getting stuck in a 60-day stalemate to crafting creative clauses that save the deal, we're sharing what it really looks like to handle contingent offers like a pro.
This episode is not your typical contract rundown (although if that's what you want, check out Episode 218). Instead, we're digging into real-life examples of contingencies gone sideways and how those experiences have changed the way we approach them forever.
Whether you're the listing agent fielding a "my house isn't even on the market yet" offer, or the buyer's agent trying to keep your clients from panicking mid-deal — this one's for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The #1 mistake agents make with contingent buyers
Why contingent offers feel riskier in today's buyer-driven market
How to protect your seller and keep the deal alive
Contingency timelines that actually work
Why listing status changes matter more than you think
The verbiage Katy and Alissa now add to every contingency deal
What to do when your buyer panics mid-transaction
How to coach buyers and sellers through backup plans (Plan A, B, and C!)
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"You're on a train headed nowhere — that's what it feels like when a contingency stalls." — Alissa
"Buyers see contingent status and think it's pending. Agents do too. That's the real problem." — Katy
"Don't get stuck in a 60-day trap. Put timelines and expectations in writing from the beginning." — Alissa
"If your buyer can't sleep, you've got a problem. Help them make an educated decision, not an emotional one." — Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 218: Real Estate Contingencies Explained
Episode 65: Buying and Selling at the Same Time
Email Templates 101: https://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: https://agentsystems101.com
Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Rate & Review the Show: Love what you hear? Leave us a review at https://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 20 Oct 2025 - 58min - 368 - 323: Can AI Replace Realtors?
In this episode, we're diving into the truth about AI in the real estate world—and how to use it without losing the personal connection that wins you business.
We'll start with the basics: what even is AI, what does ChatGPT stand for, and how many people are really using it? (Spoiler: it's more than 700 million weekly.) But don't worry—we're not here to get super technical. This is a plain-English chat for agents who want to stay ahead of the curve without losing their mind (or their clients).
We'll also cover one agent's jaw-dropping story about losing a listing to his own automation. Plus, we'll give you real examples of how to use AI for good—without outsourcing your client trust to a bot.
Here's what we cover:
What AI and ChatGPT actually mean (in plain English!)
Why "trust over task" is the real Realtor advantage
How automation can kill your client relationship
What AI can replace—and what it absolutely cannot
The good, the bad, and the awkward of AI in recruiting
How to use AI without losing your voice or your client
The step-by-step guide to becoming the agent AI recommends
Real-world examples from brokers and agents using AI well
Key Quotes/Takeaways
"AI can do your tasks—but it can't earn your client's trust." – Katy
"Relationships cannot be automated." – Alissa
"The most likely future is that agents who use AI will replace those who don't." – Katy
"Clients don't hire your CRM—they hire you." – Alissa
"Use AI to save time, not replace connection." – Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
ChatGPT (by OpenAI)
RPR Reports
IDX Website + CRM automation tools
Inman article by Jimmy Burgess
Article: "I Lost a Listing to AI" by Josh Rice
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 13 Oct 2025 - 47min - 367 - 322: Buyer Boundaries: How to Deal with Looky Loos
Ever found yourself halfway through a showing thinking, "This buyer has no intention of buying anything"?
You, my friend, have met the infamous looky loo. They're curious, they're charming, and they are a black hole of time, gas money, and sanity, unless you have boundaries.
In this episode, we're going deep into how to manage the buyers who just want to look; the ones who text at 9pm with Zillow links, or who take seven years to finally make a purchase. We're sharing real stories (some wild ones), actionable strategies, and a whole lot of permission to run your business like a business.
If you've ever thought, "I don't want to lose the deal," but also "I might lose my mind," this one's for you.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
What makes someone a looky loo and how to spot them early
How to set clear boundaries and expectations without guilt
The difference between being helpful and being used
When to quiet quit on a buyer (and how to do it professionally)
Scripts to help you say what needs to be said, kindly but firmly
How to qualify casual buyers without scaring them off
How buyer behavior impacts your time, business, and mental load
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
📝 Buyer + Seller Checklists: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/checklist
📄 Buyer Brokerage Agreement Cover Letter: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/bba
📧 Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
🛠️ Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
Want to chat with us? Join the Hustle Humbly Community or send us a message at team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 06 Oct 2025 - 1h 06min - 366 - 30: Motivation Monday/Dealing with Burnout
💡 **In This Episode** We all need a little encouragement sometimes — especially in real estate. This Motivation Monday episode is your reminder to keep showing up, even when it's hard.
Katy and Alissa offer mindset boosts, affirmations, and behind-the-scenes truths that will make you feel seen, supported, and motivated. Come back to this episode whenever you need a pep talk!
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com) - [Free Database Template](http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To every agent who keeps going — even on the hard days. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** real estate motivation, mindset for agents, pep talk, real estate burnout, agent encouragement, business mindset
Mon, 02 Mar 2020 - 52min - 365 - 29: The Power of People/Zillow and the D-word
💡 **In This Episode** Buyers can take over your calendar if you're not careful. In this episode, Katy and Alissa share exactly how they keep the buyer process under control — while still delivering amazing service.
You'll learn how to set expectations, spot red flags, and create systems that simplify your workflow and protect your time.
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com) - [Free Database Template](http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To showing up for our buyers — without burning out in the process. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** buyer consultation, realtor client systems, buyer agent tips, showing strategy, client boundaries, buyer red flags
Mon, 24 Feb 2020 - 47min - 364 - 28: Let's Talk Appraisals
💡 **In This Episode** Let's demystify appraisals! Katy and Alissa invite Alissa's dad Johnny — a veteran appraiser — to explain how appraisals work and what agents need to know.
Johnny shares stories from over 40 years in the business and gives honest, helpful tips for working with appraisers the right way.
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com) - [Free Database Template](http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To smoother appraisals and better understanding between agents and appraisers. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** real estate appraisals, home valuation, appraisal myths, agent education, working with appraisers, real estate transactions
Mon, 17 Feb 2020 - 51min - 363 - 27: The Who's Who Episode
💡 **In This Episode** Starting a real estate career? This episode is packed with everything you need to know BEFORE you even get licensed. Katy and Alissa walk you through how to prepare, what to research, and how to choose the right brokerage for you.
You'll hear honest advice, practical interview questions, and mindset shifts that make all the difference in how your journey begins.
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To every future agent ready to take the leap — you've got this. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** new real estate agent, real estate career, broker interview questions, how to start in real estate, agent mindset, licensing tips
Mon, 10 Feb 2020 - 54min - 362 - BONUS Episode: The It's About Time Interview
Surprise! It's a bonus episode! If you have subscribed to the podcast we have a little gift for you today! It's our first time ever being on the other side of the mic as Anna Dearmon Kornick of "It's About Time" podcast interviews us. Enjoy this little sneak peak of that interview and then head on over to "It's About Time" to hear the rest. Anna is a time management coach and was featured on Hustle Humbly episode 22. Find more from Anna at annadkornick.com, abouttimepodcast.com and on social media @annadkornick.
Wed, 05 Feb 2020 - 14min - 361 - 26: Everything We Wished We Knew Before Starting
💡 **In This Episode** It's the "Who's Who" episode! Katy and Alissa take you behind the scenes with stories, quirks, and laughs as they answer your listener-submitted questions. If you've ever mixed up their voices (or personalities), this episode is for you.
They cover everything from their real estate beginnings to personality types, work habits, guilty pleasures, and the surprising things that make them a great team.
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com) - [Free Database Template](http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To knowing yourself, embracing your quirks, and finding your perfect business partner. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** real estate podcast, agent life, personality types, realtor journeys, business partners, women in real estate
Mon, 03 Feb 2020 - 55min - 360 - 25: The Importance of Being Approachable
💡 **In This Episode** If your database feels like a jumbled list or an ignored spreadsheet, this episode is your wake-up call. Katy and Alissa break down exactly why your database is your business — and how to build, use, and love it.
You'll learn what to include, how to organize it, what systems make it easy, and why your future income depends on the relationships you build today.
🧰 **Resources Mentioned** - [Free Database Template](http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere) - [Email Templates 101](http://emailtemplates101.com) - [Agent Systems 101](http://agentsystems101.com)
🥂 **Toast of the Episode** To building a referral-based business that grows year after year. 🥂
💬 **Join the Conversation** Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 **Episode Tags** real estate database, client follow-up, realtor crm, referral marketing, lead nurturing, agent systems
Mon, 27 Jan 2020 - 41min - 359 - 24: Client Management
💡 In This Episode Katy and Alissa share the one class they wish every agent had to take: Client Management. It's more than just answering the phone — it's about being a leader and protector in every transaction.
You'll get real strategies for setting expectations, managing time, creating healthy boundaries, and working with even the most challenging clients.
🧰 Resources Mentioned
🥂 Toast of the Episode To every agent who chooses clarity and communication over chaos. 🥂
💬 Join the Conversation Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 Episode Tags client communication, real estate boundaries, setting expectations, realtor client tips, client relationship management
Mon, 20 Jan 2020 - 48min - 358 - 23: The 3 P's of Professionalism
💡 In This Episode Ever worked with an agent who made the whole deal harder than it needed to be? Katy and Alissa are here to raise the bar — and help you become the agent everyone wants to work with.
This "soapbox" episode is full of honesty, encouragement, and real examples of how professionalism can change your business. You'll walk away with clarity, confidence, and maybe a few things to reflect on.
🧰 Resources Mentioned
🥂 Toast of the Episode To the agents who choose kindness, clarity, and professionalism every day. 🥂
💬 Join the Conversation Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
🔖 Episode Tags professionalism, real estate agent behavior, building reputation, real estate etiquette, agent relationships, work ethic
Mon, 13 Jan 2020 - 48min - 357 - 22: It's About Time… Management
💡 In This Episode Ever feel like your calendar is running your life instead of the other way around? Time Management Coach Anna Kornick joins Katy and Alissa to help agents shift from chaos to clarity. This episode is packed with tips that are actually doable — even in the middle of your busiest season.
Anna shares her "ideal week" strategy, insights on batching tasks, and most importantly, the mindset shifts needed to protect your time and energy as a real estate pro.
🧰 Resources Mentioned
Anna Kornick - Time Management Coach
🥂 Toast of the Episode To honoring your time, your energy, and your priorities. 🥂
💬 Join the Conversation Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
Mon, 06 Jan 2020 - 51min - 356 - 21: Alissa's Email Class
💡 In This Episode This isn't just another "get to inbox zero" pep talk. Katy and Alissa open up about their real-life email struggles and share the personal systems that work for them — without requiring hours a day or color-coded chaos.
From folders that reduce stress to tools that save time and templates that keep your replies polished, this episode is about making email manageable and useful. You'll learn how to stop letting your inbox run your day — and start using it to support your business goals.
🧰 Resources Mentioned
🥂 Toast of the Episode To inboxes that serve us — not stress us! 🥂
💬 Join the Conversation Submit your topic ideas and toasts to hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @hustlehumblypodcast
Mon, 30 Dec 2019 - 39min - 355 - 20: Embracing Your Season of Life and Business
Your season matters — and it's okay if it looks different than someone else's.
In this episode of Hustle Humbly, Katy and Alissa get real about how your personal life and business don't exist in separate bubbles. Whether you're in a season of growth, transition, or rest, this conversation will help you give yourself permission to evolve, pivot, or slow down without guilt.
They share stories from their own careers about embracing change, redefining success, and finding peace in every phase. This episode is an encouraging reminder that alignment matters more than hustle — and that your business should support your life, not control it.
💡 In This EpisodeHow to identify what season you're in right now
Letting go of comparison and embracing grace
How to align your goals with your real capacity
Simple ways to adjust systems when life changes
Finding community and balance through all seasons
🧰 Resources Mentioned🥂 Toast of the EpisodeCheers to every agent giving themselves permission to slow down, shift, and grow in a way that feels right for their current season. You're exactly where you're meant to be. 🌿
💬 Join the ConversationWhat season of business are you in right now — growth, rest, or rebuilding? We'd love to hear your story! Email us at hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com or tag us on Instagram @HustleHumblyPodcast.
Mon, 23 Dec 2019 - 46min - 354 - 19: Consistency is Key
Success in real estate doesn't come from grand gestures or lucky breaks — it comes from consistency.
In this motivating episode of Hustle Humbly, Katy and Alissa unpack how showing up daily (even in small ways) builds trust, momentum, and long-term business stability. They share personal routines, mindset strategies, and realistic tips that make consistency feel achievable — not exhausting.
Whether you're trying to grow your client base, master marketing, or simply stay sane through a chaotic season, this episode will help you find your rhythm and stick to it.
💡 In This EpisodeWhy consistency beats motivation
How to create small habits that build momentum
Systems that make it easier to stay consistent
The difference between consistency and perfection
Accountability strategies that actually work
🧰 Resources Mentioned🥂 Toast of the EpisodeCheers to the consistent ones — the agents who keep showing up, day after day, building trust and credibility one small step at a time.
💬 Join the ConversationWhat helps you stay consistent in your business? Share with us at hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com or tag us on Instagram @HustleHumblyPodcast.
Mon, 16 Dec 2019 - 36min - 353 - 18: Pick a Word, Set a Goal, Have a Plan
Forget resolutions — let's talk about real, sustainable change.
In this episode of Hustle Humbly, Katy and Alissa walk you through their annual goal-setting process: choosing a word that anchors your mindset, setting goals that actually feel achievable, and building a plan that fits real life (not just Instagram-perfect productivity).
You'll hear their own words of the year, learn how to connect your goals to your values, and get a framework for staying intentional all year long — no guilt, no overwhelm, just progress.
💡 In This EpisodeHow to pick a "word of the year" that keeps you grounded
Setting goals that match your season and personality
Creating a plan that's simple, flexible, and motivating
Practical tools for reflection and consistency
How Katy & Alissa apply this system in their own lives
🧰 Resources Mentioned🥂 Toast of the EpisodeCheers to every agent taking time to slow down, reflect, and build a business that aligns with who they are — not just what's expected. 🥂
💬 Join the ConversationWhat's your word of the year for this season? We'd love to hear it! Email us at hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com or tag us on Instagram @HustleHumblyPodcast.
Mon, 09 Dec 2019 - 45min - 352 - 17: What to Do When You Are New OR Slow
✏️ Show Notes — Episode 17: "What to Do When You Are New or Slow"
Whether you're a brand-new REALTOR® trying to get your first client or a seasoned agent riding out a slow market, this episode will help you stop spiraling and start strategizing.
Katy and Alissa share what to focus on when the phones go quiet — from relationship building to system setup — so you can make progress even when deals aren't closing. Learn the power of consistent action, how to nurture your sphere without sounding salesy, and why slow seasons are actually the best time to set up a stronger business foundation.
This episode is packed with perspective shifts and practical to-dos that remind you: slow doesn't mean stuck — it means building.
💡 In This EpisodeHow to stay productive during slow seasons
The mindset shift that helps you see downtime as opportunity
Free or low-cost marketing activities that actually work
Systems and templates to build when you have extra time
Money management and self-discipline tips for lean months
🧰 Resources Mentioned🥂 Toast of the EpisodeCheers to every agent who keeps showing up even when it's quiet. You're laying the groundwork for long-term success — one consistent day at a time.
💬 Join the ConversationWhat do you do when business slows down? Share your tips or wins at hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com or DM us on Instagram at @HustleHumblyPodcast.
Mon, 02 Dec 2019 - 48min - 351 - 16: An Attitude of Gratitude
Real estate can be overwhelming — endless tasks, high expectations, emotional clients. But when you pause and practice gratitude, everything shifts.
In this uplifting episode, Katy and Alissa explore how choosing gratitude over grind can change the way you work, serve, and live. They share personal stories, simple daily habits, and examples of how appreciation strengthens client relationships, boosts referrals, and brings joy back into your business.
Whether you're in a busy season or a slow one, this episode is your reminder that gratitude doesn't take time — it creates it.
💡 In This EpisodeHow gratitude reframes challenges and helps you stay grounded
Easy daily habits to grow a mindset of appreciation
Ways to show thanks to clients, colleagues, and community
How gratitude leads to more authentic marketing and relationships
Why slowing down can actually speed up your business growth
🧰 Resources Mentioned🥂 Toast of the EpisodeCheers to every agent taking a moment to pause, breathe, and practice gratitude — because when you focus on what's good, everything gets better.
💬 Join the ConversationWhat are you grateful for in your business this week? Share with us at hello@hustlehumblypodcast.com or on Instagram at @HustleHumblyPodcast.
Mon, 25 Nov 2019 - 41min - 350 - 15: Keeping Up with Your Database for the Holidays
Back again with more love for your database! This episode is a follow up to episode 9, What's a Database and the How and Why You Should Work It. We keep the "touch" talk down to a minimum and dive into ways you can CONNECT with your people during the holiday season. We cover some of our methods of contact during this fun time of year while talking all things pie, Christmas card and much more. Tune in to hear some easy ideas to reach out and get your creative juices flowing!
Mon, 18 Nov 2019 - 36min - 349 - 14: Realtor Life Lessons with Leigh Brown
Hold on tight! If you aren't paying close attention you might miss a gem from this real estate rockstar. Leigh Brown is a successful REALTOR®, forward-thinking CEO, and #1 best-selling author. She runs one of
the top real estate teams in the country, is a kickin' keynote speaker, and LOVES everything baseball.
Leigh has a gift for motivating people to become a better version of themselves. She has achieved at the
highest levels and has worked with the highest ranks in business today. Her career path allows her the
experience to impact business growth both large and small and her inspirational speeches have been heard
all over the United States and the globe – from Miami to Dubai! From CEO's of premier companies to REALTORS® just learning their way, Leigh's experiences can impact any journey. Whether it be leadership structure for the new era of business or rock-solid sales techniques to blast through your goal, Leigh wants to help YOU! Find Leigh on instagram @leighthomasbrown, facebook @leighbrownspeaker, youtube @leighbrownspeaker, or on her podcast Crazy Sh*t in Real Estate.
Mon, 11 Nov 2019 - 47min - 348 - 13: The Enneagram: Know Thyself
Get to know us and yourself through the eyes of the enneagram. The enneagram, an ancient personality test, is an amazing tool used for self-discovery. We give a little background and an overview of the 9 types. We also talk about the attributes and challenges that would affect your life as an entrepreneur/Realtor. This is a fun conversation that anyone can find useful in their daily lives.
Mon, 04 Nov 2019 - 54min - 347 - 12: Being Authentic on Social Media
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Chelsea Petersen of the Modern Agent Social Club. Chelsea takes us through tips on bringing your true self to social media so you can build the 'know, like, trust' factor with your sphere. We talk about how you can add in more of who you are to your message and build an audience that really relates to you. Chelsea gives some practical tips for using Facebook and Instagram and talks about how to get started on video in your social media. Alissa comes equipped with all of the questions you may be thinking if social media feels uncomfortable for you. Chelsea's tips and philosophies are perfect for Realtors and entrepreneurs alike. Tune in to find out how to have fun while making social media work for you! Find Chelsea online at www.thechelseapetersen.com and Instagram @themodernliferealtor.
Mon, 28 Oct 2019 - 51min - 346 - 11: Open House Tips
In this episode we talk about some of our favorite topics like mindset and safety in relation to the open house. This real estate marketing practice is used by 60% of realtors and we talk about how they have been successful for us and what our processes are. We definitely do our open houses differently and we want you to find a system that works best for you. Join us to find out great practical tips for safety and success at your open houses!
Mon, 21 Oct 2019 - 47min - 345 - 10: Anti-Hustle Movement with Blake Guichet
Wait, there's an anti-hustle movement? What does that even mean? In this episode we are so grateful to interview podcast host(Confessions of a Crappy Christian) and entrepreneur, Blake Guichet. This candid conversation about life as an entrepreneur, mom, and woman hits on a variety of topics, including some quite unexpected ones. Tune in to find out what Blake has learned about pushing herself too hard and where that journey has landed her. If you feel like your work life has taken over your personal life and are struggling with balance, this is the conversation for you.
Mon, 14 Oct 2019 - 48min - 344 - 9: What's a Database and the How and Why You Should Work It
It's time to learn how to start, grow, clean out and "touch" your database! We dive deep into the systems that we failed with and what is working for us now. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the easiest and we give you the down low on why we both ended up using a simple excel spreadsheet. We are sharing that very spreadsheet with all of you when you visit hustlehumblypodcast.com/database_template. We discuss how important it is to have a database and why using it will be the most successful, fun and safe way to grow and sustain your business.
Mon, 07 Oct 2019 - 47min - 343 - 8: Technology Tools for Realtors and Entrepreneurs
Are you lost when it comes to tech? Aren't we all at times? There is always something new to utilize in your business no matter what your business is. In this episode we discuss some of the technology tools we are using currently in our businesses. Many of the apps/systems/software we cover are free and easy and will help streamline your business. Don't let all of the tech overwhelm you! Come hang out with us and discover it doesn't take a lot of different tech to run an efficient business.
Mon, 30 Sep 2019 - 40min - 342 - 7: Part 2 of Realtor Safety with Carl Carter
We are so grateful to have Carl Carter join us for this second episode focusing on additional tactical advice and best practices for safety. We dive deeper into how to handle showings, listing appointments and open houses where you will be exposed to possible danger. Carl gives lots of different best practices and systems that other agents use to stay safe. Carl started the Beverly Carter Foundation dedicated to the ideal that every agent goes home safe every day by providing scientifically based research, information, consulting, training, and support at no charge to every MLS, association, brokerage, and agent.
Mon, 23 Sep 2019 - 45min - 341 - 6: Part 1 of Realtor Safety with Carl Carter
We are so honored to have Carl Carter join us on this very important episode of Hustle Humbly where we cover Realtor safety. Following his mother's tragic death, Carl started the Beverly Carter Foundation dedicated to the ideal that every agent goes home safe every day by providing scientifically based research, information, consulting, training, and support at no charge to every MLS, association, brokerage, and agent. Carl shares with us his mother's story and gives tactical advice and tips on how other Realtors can keep themselves safe.
Mon, 16 Sep 2019 - 46min - 340 - 5: Boundaries and Self Care
In this episode we have a conversation about the pitfalls to running your own business and your own schedule. We talk about strategies we have used to set boundaries on ourselves and our clients. We even get into the correlation between the status of your email, fridge and closet and how to combat these sources of stress. Come join us for self-care tips and learn who inspired this episode as we toast to them!
Mon, 09 Sep 2019 - 43min - 339 - 4: Wearing Different Hats in Real Estate with Matt Hughes
Matt Hughes, the current president of GBRAR and a licensed Realtor, takes us on a journey through the different ways he has worked in real estate over his 13 year career. Matt talks about how his focus on hard work has led him to where he is today. Great advice and perspective from a past team member and current team leader. Join us as we learn more about how Matt structures his team and the reasons why he has chosen to be a team. Come get inspired to try new things and not be afraid to make a pivot in your business when you feel necessary.
Mon, 02 Sep 2019 - 42min - 338 - 3: Mindset Meltdown
Join us on a deep dive into the wonderful world of mindset! We talk about how the comparison game leads us to mindset meltdown and tell great stories about how we reset our mindset when it gets out of whack. We give tactical advice on how we keep things in perspective and keep our positive mindset. We have lots of great quotes to share and we touch on goal setting or the lack thereof. Tune in to find out some of the positive voices in our life and see who we toast to this week!
Mon, 26 Aug 2019 - 37min - 337 - 2: Culture of the Real Estate Industry
Episode 2 is an overview of the real estate industry from our perspective. We talk to each other about the messages Realtors receive when they enter the industry and the overall glamorous perception perpetrated by outlets like HGTV. Hear us discuss why we don't think it matters how you dress and what you drive and that you CAN be you and find success in your business. We touch on what's trendy in the industry and what "they" tell you to do. We also talk about what hustle looks like to us and how we feel about that word.
Mon, 19 Aug 2019 - 46min - 336 - 1: Introduction to Alissa & Katy and the WHY behind Hustle Humbly
In this episode we introduce ourselves and give a little background on why we see a need in the real estate industry for a podcast of encouragement. We both share a love of mentoring agents and wanted the ability to reach a larger audience. Alissa was going on dozens of coffee dates a year to give advice to new and struggling agents and this episode dives into what was talked about in those coffee dates. We also talk about how we met on one of these very dates and the reasons Katy reached out to Alissa. Join us as we toast our mentors and pull back the curtain on the "secret" to success!
Mon, 19 Aug 2019 - 41min - 335 - 321: Pre-Listing Appraisals: Helpful or Hindrance?
There's nothing quite like walking into a listing appointment prepared, only to have the seller slide an appraisal across the table before you can even share your thoughts. In this episode, we dive deep into the sometimes-helpful, often-headache-inducing world of pre-listing appraisals in real estate.
Alissa shares a couple of jaw-dropping pricing stories, including one where she was blindsided by an appraisal that came in a full $60K over her estimate—and how she ended up taking the listing anyway (spoiler: she regrets it). Katy and Alissa get real about the pros and cons of pre-listing appraisals, when they're appropriate, and how they can be both a tool and a trap.
You'll also hear two real-life case studies that show how appraisals can drastically impact seller expectations—and what happens when those numbers just don't line up with the market. From lessons learned the hard way to advice you can use in your next listing appointment, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and some painful pricing truth.
If you've ever struggled to price a property—or convince a seller that their home isn't worth what Zillow (or their appraiser) says—this one's for you.
Here's what we chat about in this episode:
What is a pre-listing appraisal and why would a seller get one?
Real-life pricing fails (and what we learned from them)
Why appraisals aren't always reliable in shifting markets
How to talk to sellers about appraisals without losing the listing
Why CMAs and appraisals rarely match
Specific scripts and verbiage to use when appraisals go wrong
The pros and cons of recommending an appraisal yourself
How to position yourself as the pricing expert—even when the appraiser disagrees
Tips for navigating seller emotions and stubborn pricing
Key Quotes/Takeaways"I should've gone in with my Alissa mentality: tell them the truth and let the chips fall." – Alissa
"Appraisers are only using data from homes that actually sold. They're not accounting for what's sitting on the market today." – Katy
"I prayed I was wrong, but the market proved me right—and the house sat for months." – Alissa
"Sometimes the appraisal says 510 and your gut says 450… and you take the listing anyway. Don't do that." – Katy
"You can get five appraisers and five different values. Your job is to be the constant." – Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Build Your Own Business 101 (BYOB)
Want to chat with us? Join the Hustle Humbly Community or send us a message at team@hustlehumblypodcast.com.
Don't forget to grab our free resources at hustlehumblypodcast.com! Want to support the show? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or share this episode with a Realtor friend who needs it!
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Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 29 Sep 2025 - 52min - 334 - 320.5: BONUS: Real South Agents Podcast Interview's Alissa
How do you build a real estate business that lasts? Spoiler alert: it's not with fancy tech or paid leads.
In this bonus episode, we're sharing Alissa's recent guest appearance on The Real South Agents Podcast with Jamie Knight. You'll hear a fresh side of Alissa as she flips the mic and opens up about her earliest days in real estate — from waiting tables to handwriting 250 letters just to build a database.
Jamie does a great job pulling out valuable takeaways for both new and struggling Realtors, and you'll leave this conversation with a renewed sense of purpose and plenty of real-life strategies that actually work.
You'll hear the exact process Alissa followed to build her repeat and referral-based business, why she almost became a real estate appraiser, and the advice she'd give an agent who's one bad month away from quitting.
If you've ever felt like giving up, or you're stuck in the weeds of "what CRM should I use," this is your pep talk.
Here's what you'll learn in this bonus chat:
How Alissa went from Cane's lemonade maker to top-producing Realtor
Why your business "clock" might not have started yet
The low-cost move that helped Alissa build her database
How to consistently stay in touch without being pushy or salesy
Why writing 250 handwritten notes changed everything
What to do when you're struggling and have no leads
Simple follow-up strategies that still work in 2025
The email tip that keeps you top of mind (and feels human)
Why loving on your people always beats paid leads
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Jamie Knight, The Real South Agents Podcast
Mailchimp (for email list building)
Alissa's spreadsheet-style CRM
LSU Football Schedule Mailouts
Hustle Humbly Community: hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Freebies for Realtors: hustlehumblypodcast.com/freebies
Wed, 24 Sep 2025 - 36min - 333 - 320: How Educating Buyers Builds Trust and Business
When Stacie Rihl hosted her first first-time homebuyer class, only 10 people showed up and she had 15 pizzas. Fast forward a few years, and she now runs a national referral business built entirely around teaching buyers how the process works.
After gaining experience in both the real estate and mortgage industries, Stacie Rihl recognized a major gap in education and resources for first-time homebuyers. She went on to become an online educator for new buyers, offering free virtual classes that have helped over 20,000 people learn the home-buying process.
In this episode, we chat with Stacie about how she went from in-person flops to 50+ monthly referrals all while wearing yoga pants and working from her laptop.
She shares how her journey through real estate sales and mortgages gave her a unique perspective, why consistency mattered more than perfection, and how a simple Zoom class changed her entire career.
💡 If you've ever thought about hosting a class (and then chickened out)... this is your permission slip.
Here's what we cover in this episode:
How one failed class turned into a full-time business
Why educating buyers builds instant trust
How to teach homebuyers without boring them
Creating a scalable system from your passion
The importance of strong follow-up systems
How Stacie chooses the agents she refers to
The unexpected power of being the "expert" early in the process
What most agents get wrong about first-time buyer events
Why she teaches live — and keeps it free
The agent interview process she uses before sending leads
If you've been looking for a lead gen strategy that's actually aligned with your values, this one's for you.
Key Quotes/Takeaways"You have to have a way to turn class attendees into clients. It's not just about showing up with snacks." — Stacie Rihl
"I want people to come to me before they're ready — that's where the trust starts." — Stacie Rihl
"Don't give up because your first class was a flop. My first one was, too." — Stacie Rihl
"You can teach homebuyers and still build a serious business." — Katy Caldwell
"Consistency wins. It's not magic; it's a system." — Alissa Jenkins
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Stacie Rihl on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamstacierihl/
Free Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere
Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com
Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com
All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 22 Sep 2025 - 44min - 332 - 319: The Realtor Control Freak Survival Guide
Are you obsessing over that listing that just won't sell? Feeling like a failure even though you've done everything you possibly can for your clients? This episode is your mindset reset.
We're getting honest about the hard truth so many Realtors need to hear: you can't control everything. The current market is weird, unpredictable, and frankly, a little rude. And if you're tying your value and self-worth to outcomes you can't control — like a closing happening or not — then you're setting yourself up for burnout.
Inspired by real conversations with stressed-out agents, our own challenging transactions, and the pressure we all feel to "make it happen," this chat is for all the control freaks (hi, it's us) who need a reminder about what actually is in our control.
We'll walk through the things you can't control, like:
Interest rates, the economy, or inventory
Whether your clients take your advice
Another agent's professionalism
A buyer canceling due to a knee replacement (true story)
Feedback (or the lack of it)
And the things you CAN control, including:
How often you follow up and communicate
The way you set expectations and share data
Your systems, organization, and boundaries
Your mindset and gratitude
How many clients you take on at once
If you're feeling stuck, unappreciated, or just overwhelmed by this wild market, this pep talk will help you shift the focus back to what you can do—and let go of what you can't. Because if you're doing your job, communicating well, and staying professional, then you are a great agent... even if the house hasn't sold yet.
Key Quotes/Takeaways"You cannot tie your worth to whether or not the house sells." — Alissa
"If I've done my job, I sleep well at night. That's what I can control." — Alissa
"You can't control if they take your advice. But it's your job to give it." — Alissa
"Client acquisition and client service are two different jobs." — Katy
"You deserve that Saturday phone call if you didn't do your Friday update." — Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Hustle Humbly Community (private agent community) hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
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Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 15 Sep 2025 - 52min - 331 - 318: Death, Drama, and Deals: Wild Real Estate Stories
What do serial killers, mothballs, lawsuits, and staircases to nowhere have in common? Yep. They've all made an appearance in the world of real estate.
In this fun twist from our usual mindset or strategy-based content, we're diving into the craziest, weirdest, and sometimes most horrifying real estate stories we've ever heard (or experienced). Some stories are viral legends — and we investigate whether they're actually true or total internet myths. Others? Straight from real agents, and totally real (unfortunately).
We promise you'll laugh, cringe, and maybe side-eye your next transaction just a little more carefully. From exploding cars and fake agents in boxers to the infamous Winchester Mystery House and a literal bag of 22 mothballs — we've got it all.
Don't worry — we balance out the chaos with a reminder to stay safe, trust your instincts, and question everything you read on the internet.
And hey, Halloween is around the corner! Got a haunted house story? Send it in now to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com so we can include it in our upcoming Halloween episode!
Here's what we cover in this episode:
The infamous "spite house" and why it may not be built out of spite after all
A listing appointment that turned into a literal crime scene
The real story behind those $1 and $35 listings (yes, they're real)
An exploding car, a cashier's check, and a shocking identity reveal
A fake agent caught mid-makeout in a vacant condo
Lawsuits over feedback: viral fiction or something to worry about?
Why one house smelled like it had 22,000 mothballs
An agent's instincts about a creepy seller — and what happened after
Staircases that lead to ceilings and doors that go nowhere
The wild truth behind selling a house via raffle tickets
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Ozone machines (used for odor removal)
Realtor.com and Inman articles (referenced in viral pricing strategy discussion)
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
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Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 08 Sep 2025 - 46min - 330 - 317: Realtor Safety Month: Scams, Showings, and Survival
Ever felt a little uneasy walking into a showing alone? This one's for y'all.
It's Realtor Safety Month, and we're not here to give you a snoozy lecture; we're telling REAL stories from our time in the field, including a downright chilling personal experience that's forever changed how we approach safety.
In this episode, we're getting honest about the scary stuff: being targeted by strangers, unsettling showings, and the sneaky ways scammers are taking advantage of Realtors and clients. It's not about fear; it's about awareness and professionalism. Because safety isn't a luxury in this job. It's a necessity.
We cover the 7 reasons why being a Realtor is more dangerous than people realize and the 7 most common real estate scams going around RIGHT NOW. You'll also walk away with a practical safety checklist to implement today—whether you're doing a solo open house or meeting a new client for the first time.
You'll hear:
Katy's personal safety scare and why she NEVER parks in driveways anymore
Why showing up early to a listing isn't always the safest choice
The real story behind that too-good-to-be-true moving company
The $446 million scam that's hitting buyers where it hurts most
How to protect yourself (and your clients!) from wire fraud and fake listings
What scammers are doing with AI and your social media content
A safety checklist every Realtor should be using
Y'all, this is one of those episodes we hope you never need, but one you can't afford to miss. Stay alert. Stay smart. Stay safe.
💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways"You don't need to be scared, but you do need to be prepared." — Katy
"Realtor safety isn't about fear—it's about boundaries and professionalism." — Alissa
"Scammers are getting smarter. AI makes it easier than ever for someone to pretend to be you." — Katy
"If something feels off, leave. Don't be polite. Just go." — Alissa
"The job looks glamorous, but there are real risks people don't talk about." — Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
SafeShowings App
Forewarn App
Like360 App
The Close article on 7 Real Estate Scams
Episode #190 on wire fraud
Episodes #6 & 7 with Carl Carter
Safety Episode #161 with Tanner (Alissa's husband & Law Enforcement Officer)
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 01 Sep 2025 - 57min - 329 - 316: How to Make Your Database Work
Is your database collecting dust while you chase another shiny lead?
This episode is the mindset reset you didn't know you needed. We know the word database might not sound fun or flashy, but trust us; this is the foundation of your business. If you've been avoiding working on your database because it feels "salesy," overwhelming, or just plain boring, this is your episode.
We're breaking down how your database isn't a static list. It's alive, y'all, just like sourdough starter (seriously). You have to feed it, prune it, and use it if you want it to work. This is not a one-and-done task. It's an ongoing, evolving system that, when done right, will eventually help you get off the hamster wheel of paying for leads or chasing strangers.
We share exactly what we do to maintain our databases, from real-life workflows to browser hacks and what we do at every closing. Plus, we're dishing on all the ways agents waste time thinking they're being productive. Spoiler alert: endlessly tweaking your logo is not it.
We also chat through:
Why having a database doesn't mean sending one card a year
What Alissa's CPA said that totally validates the database strategy
The database math trick to test the health of your contacts
Our favorite real-life success story of a lead-to-referral database strategy
The list of time-wasting "busy work" agents confuse with productivity
Why letting go of instant gratification is key for long-term success
How overprepping, overthinking, and over-networking can keep you stuck
Why we're teaching our Build Your Own Business course LIVE this fall
Let's be real: if your only job was to maintain your people, what fluff would you cut out?
Let's make your business more efficient, intentional, and referral-based — without the overwhelm. You don't have to start from scratch, but you do have to start.
🔑 Key Quotes / Takeaways"The health of your business is a direct reflection of the health of your database." – Alissa
"If your database is working, you don't have to keep chasing strangers." – Katy
"Your database is not done. It's alive. It has to be fed, and it has to be pruned." – Katy
"People avoid the database because it's not instant. But the payoff is long-term and real." – Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Build Your Own Business course (Live version starts September 2, 2025) www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
LSU football schedule magnets
Trello & Google sheets
Previous episode #212: Does Time Blocking Work in Real Estate?
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 25 Aug 2025 - 45min - 328 - 315: Navigating Negotiations & Communication with Buyers & Sellers
Feeling stuck between representing your client and not looking crazy with the co-op agent? This episode is for you.
We're hearing from a lot of y'all lately that you are feeling lost when it comes to presenting low offers, rough repair requests, and those fun times when your clients want you to ask for things that make zero sense. If you are nodding your head; you're not alone.
In today's chat, we're diving deep into the art of negotiating, communicating clearly, and most importantly, setting and managing client expectations in this shifting market. Whether it's an offer you're embarrassed to present, a buyer asking for $15k in closing costs, or a seller who thinks their 90s carpet is just fine—this episode is packed with real stories, actual scripts, and mindset shifts that will help you show up with confidence.
We're not here to sugarcoat. We're here to help you keep your professionalism intact, even when your clients are testing your patience.
In this episode, we'll cover:
What your fiduciary duty actually means (and why it matters)
How to present lowball offers without cringing
What to say when a client's expectations are unrealistic
When (and how) to push back while still representing your client
Why "I think" needs to leave your vocabulary
Real stories of negotiation wins and losses
How to use market data as your superpower
The secret to staying calm and confident, even when a builder tells you they hope to never work with you again
If you've ever worried about what other agents think of you, or if you've felt torn between doing what your client wants and what you know is right, this is your pep talk.
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Book: Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
Hustle Humbly Email Templates: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/emailtemplates
Join the Community: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
💬Key Quotes/Takeaways"You're not just a messenger. You're their agent. That means you have to offer advice." – Katy
"Just because a client asks for the moon doesn't mean you have to present it without question." – Alissa
"Professionalism always wins, even when you're delivering bad news." – Katy
"Data gives you confidence. Use it to lead the conversation instead of saying 'I think.'" – Alissa
"You can present a ridiculous offer and still be professional about it." – Katy
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 18 Aug 2025 - 46min - 327 - 314: The Real Estate Social Media Dilemma
Can you really be yourself online and still be seen as a professional? Before you scrub your personal life off the internet as part of your real estate initiation, listen in as we tackle one of the most common (and most paralyzing) social media questions: Should I have two accounts—one for business and one for personal?
This isn't just a tech question. It's a mindset one. We've seen so many agents struggle with how much of their real life to share. Should you talk about your hobbies? Even if it's super niche? Surely people don't want to hear about my obsession with whale watching and real estate in the same place. (Or, do they?)
In this chat, we go deep into:
Why being relatable actually helps your business
How your vibe really does attract your tribe
The pros and cons of multiple social accounts
Tips on account types (creator, personal, or business?) and how they affect your reach
Why your follower count isn't the goal anymore
How to mix business and life without losing either
The mindset blocks keeping you from showing up
And what really matters when it comes to social media success (hint: it's not the algorithm)
Plus, we share personal stories about social media weirdos (yep, creepy guitars and all), burnout, taking a break from the scroll, and how to stay sane while still showing up online.
If you've ever worried that people will think you're not "professional enough" for having a personality online—or you've found yourself spiraling about whether to blur your kids' faces—this one is for you.
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Modern Agent Marketing Girls Podcast Episode 9: Should You Have Two Accounts?
Chelsea Petersen (past guest eps #123, 91, 12) & CEO of Modern Agent Social Club(You can always use code HUSTLEHUMBLY to get a $50 discount when you join!)
Shannon McKinstrie's (past guest ep #274) "Good Content" Podcast
Hustle Humbly episode #308 with Tori Sprakel on branding
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
🔑 Key Quotes & Takeaways"You're not a business and then a person separately. You're a person who runs a business." — Alissa
"It's not a content problem—it's a mindset problem." — Katy
"People aren't on Instagram to shop for houses. They're there to connect, be entertained, and feel inspired." — Alissa
"If you're forcing yourself to post just to post, you're going to burn out—and no one will notice if you take a break." — Alissa
"The more relatable you are, the more people want to support you." — Katy
Mon, 11 Aug 2025 - 46min - 326 - 313: What You Need to Know About Houses
You're standing in an open house, sweating in a blazer, and someone asks how many HVAC units are in the home. Cue the internal panic.
In this episode, we're diving into one of the most relatable questions we've ever received: How much do I actually need to know about houses to be a good Realtor? Spoiler alert: more than "I'll find out for you" on repeat, but less than a licensed contractor.
Whether you're brand new or years in, this episode will help you figure out where the gaps are in your knowledge, how to fill them, and what your clients really expect from you.
We share our own early embarrassments (looking at you, open house meltdown), what we've learned along the way, and how we approach showing prep, including how much we know before we ever step foot in the door.
We'll talk about:
What to say when you don't know the answer
The key home systems and materials every Realtor should understand
How we research and prep for showings and inspections
The most efficient ways to learn about houses on the job
What we do and don't memorize before a showing
Why attending inspections is better than reading reports
This episode is full of practical advice, permission to not know everything, and a little pep talk to go learn your product. Because you can't sell what you don't understand.
Take one hour this week and walk through a vacant home or attend an inspection. Ask questions. Learn what you don't know. It'll pay off in client confidence and better service.
Key Quotes/Takeaways"You can't sell what you don't understand." —Katy
"It's not about knowing everything. It's about knowing where to find the answer." —Alissa
"If you keep saying 'I'll find out,' eventually clients will wonder what exactly you do know." —Katy
"You're not the inspector, but you are supposed to be an informed professional." —Alissa
"Knowing your product builds confidence. And confidence builds trust." —Katy
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Music:
Straight A's by Conner Price
The Good Life by Summer Kennedy
Mon, 04 Aug 2025 - 36min - 325 - 312: Commission Conversations You Need to Be Ready For
Ever been asked—by a client or another agent—to cut your commission mid-deal? Or worse, right before closing? It's happening more and more, and in this episode we're sharing how to respond, how to prepare, and how to protect your paycheck without losing your professionalism (or your cool).
Inspired by multiple messages and agent stories, we're diving into what we're calling the age of commission cutting. We're not talking about negotiating commission upfront—we're talking about after you've already agreed to terms, done the work, and someone wants you to just... give some of it away.
We walk through real examples of buyer and listing agents being pressured into taking less, how to handle those phone calls in the moment (especially when you feel totally caught off guard), and why "just being nice" can cost you big time.
Whether it's guilt-tripping, bad math, or a last-minute closing crisis, Katy and Alissa share how to protect yourself before it happens, why mindset and boundaries matter, and some super helpful scripts and phrases you can keep in your back pocket when you need to stand your ground.
You'll also hear:
Why commission is not part of the buyer/seller negotiation
What to say when someone tries to guilt you into a cut
The biggest mistake you can make when you're feeling bad for your client
The difference between being kind and being a pushover
How to do the math on what your time is really worth
Get ready for a pep talk, some wild stories, and practical advice on how to stop treating your income like a favor.
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 295: Why Buyer Agents Struggle to Get Paid
Episode 232: Buyer Brokerage How-Tos
Daryl Davis quote and article referenced
Episode 296: Peaceful Partings
Key Quotes/Takeaways"You're not a victim in a real estate transaction. You agreed to the terms—stand by them." —Katy
"Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on mine." —Alissa
"Your commission isn't a bargaining chip. It's the price for the service you already delivered." —Katy
"Be kind, but stand firm. Those aren't mutually exclusive." —Alissa
"I don't need to pay you to stay in this deal. That's not my job." —Alissa
CTA: If this topic hit home, take a minute to revisit your buyer consults and listing presentations. Are you clearly outlining your value? Are your clients crystal clear on how and when you get paid? Don't wait until you're put on the spot.
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 28 Jul 2025 - 44min - 324 - 311: Tips for Peaceful Partings in Real Estate
What happens when a client blindsides you and hires someone else? Or when your favorite sellers decide to "hit the button" on Zillow without you? In this episode, we're talking all about how to keep your cool, preserve your relationships, and show up with professionalism—even when your heart gets broken.
We've all been there. A past client lists their home without calling you. A buyer you've poured into suddenly ghosts you. A friend uses someone else. Ouch. The gut punch is real, but what you do next matters even more than what just happened. Peaceful partings aren't always easy, but they're always worth it.
We're chatting through real-life rejection stories (some from last week!) and how we've learned to navigate them with kindness, class, and a whole lot of self-talk. It's not about avoiding hurt; it's about choosing how to respond.
Here's what we get into:
How to handle the heartbreak of client rejection
What to say when someone lists without you
The power of the follow-up (even when you're mad!)
How to part ways professionally with a broker or team
When to let go and when to speak up
The importance of grace, gratitude, and not taking it personally
Grab a tissue, pour some coffee, and let's talk about peaceful partings in all their messiness.
💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways
"It's not about you. Nobody cares about you as much as you think they do." — Katy
"Rejection still hurts, even when you're seasoned. But you don't have to let it define you." — Alissa
"Gratitude builds bridges. You never know when your paths will cross again." — Katy
"Be so kind they regret not choosing you." — Alissa
"Leaving well is a skill. It reflects emotional maturity and grace." — Katy
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
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Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
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Mon, 21 Jul 2025 - 57min - 323 - 310: The Four Core Systems Every Realtor Needs
Let's be honest: when was the last time you checked if your business systems were actually working?
This week, we're giving y'all a special sneak peek into one of our monthly Hustle Humbly Community live calls, and this one was just too good to keep to ourselves. We did a full systems audit together and broke down the four core systems every Realtor needs to run a smooth, sustainable business.
Whether you're overwhelmed by tech, struggling to follow up, or just wondering why things feel so clunky, this episode will help you figure out what needs to grow, and what needs to go.
Here's what we covered:
The 4 core systems in every real estate business
What a working system actually looks like
Why simple systems are the hardest to teach (and the most effective!)
How to know if your system is broken or just neglected
Our favorite tips for tidying up your email, follow-up, and database
We're also sharing tools, strategies, and examples from real community members who joined us live—plus some laughs, real-life solutions, and that signature Hustle Humbly encouragement.
If your systems feel like a cluttered mess, come hang out with us for a little systems clean-up. ✨
Loved this systems chat? Join us in the Hustle Humbly Community to get access to all the monthly lives and resources! Head to www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership.
Upcoming Community Live: Thursday, July 24 at 1pm Central
💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways
"There is nothing more difficult than simplicity." —Alissa
"Your system isn't broken—you're just not using it." —Katy
"A system is something that remembers for you." —Alissa
"Stop trying to make it perfect and just make it work." —Katy
"Your inbox is not a storage unit." —Alissa
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Join the Hustle Humbly Community: www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership
Trello & Free Trello training video: www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/trello
RealtyZam bookkeeping tool for Realtors: www.realtyzam.com
Skyslope / Dotloop / MLS tools
QuickBooks
Upcoming Community Live: Thursday, July 24 at 1pm Central
Mon, 14 Jul 2025 - 57min - 322 - 309: Do I Need a Real Estate Mentor?
Ever had a mentor who ghosted you? Or a mentee who treated you like tech support? If so, you are in the right place!
This week we're chatting about all things mentorship — the good, the bad, and the absolutely awkward. From horror stories of mentors who used their mentees as free labor, to sweet tales of life-changing support, we've got it all. And we're not just telling our stories. Y'all sent in nearly 100 responses about your own mentor/mentee experiences — and we read every single one.
We dive into:
How to find (or become) a great mentor
What mentees get wrong (and how to fix it)
Why boundaries matter more than ever
How to know when you're ready for a mentee
Tips for respecting time, energy, and expertise
What NOT to ask your mentor (hint: Google it first)
Alissa's story about "Workshop Wednesday"
We also chat about how mentorship evolves as you grow in your career, and why sometimes your "mentor" is really just your go-to industry friend.
Whether you're craving guidance or feeling burnt out from giving too much of it, this one's packed with real talk and helpful insights. Mentorship doesn't have to be messy. Let's get it right!
If you're feeling inspired (or exhausted) by your own mentor experience, send us a DM and let us know what resonated with you the most!
💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways
"Your mentor isn't tech support. If there's a tutorial for it, start there." —Alissa
"Mentorship only works when there's mutual effort and respect." —Katy
"Don't treat your mentee like your assistant — unless they are your assistant." —Katy
"Sometimes the most powerful mentors are the ones you never officially asked for." —Alissa
"If you're asking five people the same question, you're not looking for an answer — you're avoiding action." —Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 17: What to Do When You're New or Slow
CE classes, MLS tutorials, and brokerage training options
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 07 Jul 2025 - 1h 08min - 321 - 308: How to Build a Realtor Brand That Attracts
Feeling stuck in a saturated market and unsure how to stand out as a Realtor? You're going to love this one!
This week we are chatting with the brilliant Tori Sprankel, a brand and web designer with a gift for helping entrepreneurs (especially parents!) uncover what makes them different. If you've ever wondered how to figure out your brand, what to post on social, or how to build confidence online—this episode is packed with gold.
Tori shares her hot take that Realtors should stop selling houses and start selling lifestyle. That one shift in thinking opens up a world of content ideas and opportunities to actually enjoy showing up online. Whether you're the mom who knows all the best playground coffee shops or the go-to relocation expert, Tori shows you how to define your lane and make it magnetic.
We also talk about:
Why your personal brand is an overlap of your interests and your audience's
How to show up consistently (hint: it's not about logos or fonts)
Tips for easing into video when you're nervous
The power of "warm hellos" in stories
Why you need to follow creators outside of real estate
The content that works without being on social media
You'll walk away from this one with tangible tips, fresh inspiration, and most importantly—permission to be you.
Want to feel more confident and creative online? Go follow Tori and grab her freebies at www.torisprankel.com. And don't forget to DM her a voice note—she'll love it!
💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways
"You're not selling houses. You're selling lifestyle and connection." —Tori
"Your brand is that sweet spot between what you love and what your clients care about." —Tori
"You can't go from zero to 60 on video. Start with a warm hello." —Katy
"Consistency builds safety—and safety builds trust." —Tori
"If you're only posting just listed graphics, you're missing your chance to connect." —Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Tori's free Stories Challenge:www.torisprankel.com
Connect with Tori on Instagram: www.instagram.com/torisprankel
Tori's post: "Exactly What You Need to Post Today"
Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 30 Jun 2025 - 47min - 320 - 307: What to Do When Real Estate Gets Hard
Beginner's luck was real—but it's not forever. If you got into real estate during the pandemic boom years, chances are you saw fast wins and easy closings and you might've thought, "Wow, this job is amazing!" But now, things feel different. Harder. Slower. And maybe you're wondering… "Do I even have what it takes?"
In this episode, we're having an honest, sometimes tough-love chat about what it really takes to make it in real estate today. We're sharing our own early career stories: what worked, what didn't, and why survival back then looks a lot like what it takes now.
We're talking about the shift from pandemic market momentum to today's unpredictable reality and why so many agents are feeling lost, confused, and ready to walk away. If you're in that spot, we want to help you find clarity (not just blind motivation).
We cover:
The hard truth about beginner's luck
What it means to truly commit to a real estate business
Why some agents succeed and others don't
How to know if it's time to quit—or double down
Real questions to audit your situation honestly
The shift from "I want to" to "I need to make this work"
Why having a backup plan can actually hurt your chances
This episode is for you if:
You're thinking about leaving the business (but feel guilty or unsure)
You're wondering if this slump is just temporary or a sign
You want to stop spinning your wheels and start working a real plan
This one might sting a little—but we promise it's full of encouragement, clarity, and direction too. Consider this your wake-up call and pep talk rolled into one.
💬 Key Quotes & Takeaways"Just because you want something doesn't mean it's going to happen—you need a plan, not just a dream." — Alissa
"You have to treat real estate like a business, not a fantasy." — Katy
"Beginner's luck gave you experience—now you need to put in the work." — Katy
"Stop waiting for a magic turnaround. This is the new market. Are you in or are you out?" — Alissa
"The first three years aren't about making money—they're about showing up every single day, whether it's easy or not." — Katy
Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 1–3: Our Origin Stories
Episode 38: Where Our Business Comes From
Episode 73: The Staging Closet
Episode 119: Interview with a Builder
Episode 198: Real Estate Side Hustles
Episode 271: Should You Renew Your License?
Episode 304: Listener Q&A Pt. 1
Episode 306: Listener Q&A Pt. 2
Real estate email templates: hustlehumblypodcast.com/templates
Trello (for task/project management): hustlehumblypodcast.com/trello
Excel or spreadsheets for budgeting early in your careerLeave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
Get your FREE Database Template
Email Templates 101: emailtemplates101.com
Build Your Own Business 101: hustlehumblypodcast.com/byob
Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com
All Resources: hustlehumblypodcast.com
Submit your topic ideas and toasts to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com
Mon, 23 Jun 2025 - 47min
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