Learn how to grow your real estate business with author, CEO, business strategist, and real estate agent, Jennifer Staats. Sit down with the owner of Staats Solutions, top producing agents, and thought leaders worldwide as they share the time saving methods they used to grow their real estate business. Discover the secrets to scaling your business without sacrificing what is most important to you. Follow Life & Listings wherever you get your podcasts and get ready to build the real estate business you've always wanted.
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82. Construction, Collaboration, and Commercial Success: A Real Estate Journey with Joao Macavilca
Season 1
Monday, June 2, 2025 • Duration 16:38
In this episode of Life and Listings, we sit down with Joao, a commercial general contractor and real estate investor who's scaled from a single duplex to owning 91 doors — with plans to add 50 more this year! From humble beginnings to high-level partnerships, Joao shares how one networking event changed everything, the unconventional path he took into ownership, and some truly wild renovation stories (yes, including a funnel in a drain pipe). Whether you're in real estate or just love a good success story, this one’s packed with value and laughs. Listen now!
“Just talk to everyone, find out what you can become friends, see what you can offer them.” - Joao
Key takeaways:
Networking Can Be a Game-Changer Joao’s entire business trajectory shifted after attending just one real estate event. Despite being introverted, stepping out of his comfort zone led to meeting the partners who helped him scale from a few duplexes to owning 91 doors.
Bring Value to the Table — Not Just Capital Joao’s growth didn’t come from deep pockets but from offering his skills in construction. By solving a major pain point for investors — reliable, cost-effective renovations — he earned equity and long-term partnerships.
Hands-On Experience Builds Long-Term Advantage Learning construction from a young age (thanks to his dad’s DIY attitude), Joao was able to do his own renovations, save money early on, and eventually build a full construction team, giving him leverage in every deal.
Unlikely Situations Teach Valuable Lessons Joao’s wild stories — like discovering a funnel rigged into a drainpipe — highlight the importance of thorough inspections and the unexpected challenges real estate investors can face. Each situation became a learning opportunity that helped him grow.
About Joao Macavilca:
Joao Macavilca is an esteemed professional in commercial construction and real estate investment with a remarkable 7-year journey marked by expertise and achievements. Alongside my extensive experience in general contracting, I am a seasoned real estate investor, boasting ownership of a diverse portfolio comprising single-family and multifamily properties.
My accomplishments extend to successfully flipping over 48 commercial properties, and 24 single-family homes showcasing a prowess for strategic investments and high-value additions. Whether orchestrating commercial additions, implementing transformative renovations, or navigating intricate real estate transactions, my holistic approach ensures projects are not only executed with precision but are also positioned for substantial returns. I have cultivated strong professional relationships with top-tier material suppliers and highly skilled subcontractors. This network allows me to access premium materials at competitive prices and collaborate with a reliable team of experts.
With a commitment to excellence and a proven track record in both construction and real estate investment, I am your trusted partner for projects that demand a blend of experience, vision, and financial acumen. Let's build and grow together.
81. Why Private Credit Is the Secret Weapon in Real Estate Investing? With Kevin Amolsch
Season 1
Monday, May 12, 2025 • Duration 20:45
In the latest episode of Life and Listings, Jennifer Staats sits down with Kevin, a seasoned real estate investor and founder of Pine Financial, to unpack how he turned a college side hustle into a billion-dollar lending business. They dive into building wealth through real estate, the power of passive income from private debt, how to measure true success beyond money, and why now might be the perfect time to "become the bank." If you're in real estate—or just curious about smart investing—this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to hear Kevin’s insights and grab his free report at thepinereport.com!
“Very few people that I talk to that really have a grasp of this concept will say it has anything to do with money or number of doors or square feet of property that you own, it's typically going to be, what's my freedom and lifestyle, or how am I helping this specific person in my life?” - Kevin
Key Takeaways:
Start Early and Think Creatively: Kevin began investing in real estate at 21, using creative financing techniques like leveraging other people’s money. This approach allowed him to build a rental portfolio while still in college and laid the foundation for a successful career.
The Power of Private Lending: Kevin shifted from flipping houses to becoming a private lender, highlighting that being "the bank" can be a highly profitable and lower-risk strategy. Private debt allows for consistent, passive income and offers control over lending standards.
Education is Essential for Private Credit: Many real estate professionals miss out on private lending opportunities due to a lack of understanding. Kevin recommends starting with educational resources like BiggerPockets or investing in professionally managed funds to get started.
Redefining Success: Success, according to Kevin, isn’t about the number of properties or the size of a paycheck—it’s about impact. Whether it’s buying a house for his dad or building a team that changes lives, Kevin emphasizes purpose-driven success.
72. Avoiding Burnout: The Secret to Real Estate Longevity with Misty Maki
Season 2
Monday, March 10, 2025 • Duration 18:29
What’s the secret to an 18-year career in real estate?
Misty Maki, a Utah-based realtor, shares her inspiring journey from hairstylist to real estate success. You’ll hear how she transformed her business by embracing self-improvement, setting SMART goals, and mastering time management with tools like color-coded calendars.
Misty dives into strategies that drive her success, from hosting client events and maintaining high communication to leveraging social media and agent referrals. She also shares her ambitious plan to grow her brokerage by adding four agents in 2025, along with a hilarious story about an unexpected tumble into a water meter hole during a showing.
If you’re looking for actionable tips and a dose of humor, Misty’s journey will leave you inspired to elevate your own career!
"I could see real estate as our future. It is sustainable. It gives us good income. It gives us a way to better ourselves– better our community." –Misty Maki
Hear more about:
Transitioning to Real Estate
Building a Long-Term Business
Mentorship and Foundational Support
Implementing Systems and Scheduling
About Misty Maki:
Misty began her real estate career in 2005 and quickly discovered her passion for helping people find more than just a house—they find a home. This passion led her to establish Maki Real Estate, a brokerage built on the belief that a home is more than a place to live—it’s where life happens.
Beyond her work in real estate, she is dedicated to uplifting others, especially women in business. She values time with her grown children, her husband of 28 years, and their two loyal mastiffs. Whether at home or out exploring Utah’s stunning outdoors, Misty brings warmth and purpose to everything she does.
71. Stop Selling, Start Connecting: The Future of Real Estate Prospecting with Michelle Berman-Mikel
Season 2
Monday, March 3, 2025 • Duration 31:38
Are you a real estate or mortgage professional struggling to turn social media followers into real clients? In this episode, Jen sits down with Michelle Berman, founder of Berman Media, to break down the power of social media prospecting. Michelle shares game-changing strategies on leveraging your unique passions and skills to stand out in a crowded market—without obsessing over vanity metrics. She’ll walk you through how to create content that actually converts, build meaningful relationships, and use social media as a tool for real business growth. Plus, she gives a sneak peek into her new group coaching program and a free workbook to help you take action right away!
Don’t just post—connect, convert, and grow. Hit play now and start using social media the right way!
“I am a social media prospecting coach, not a social media coach. They're different. And so I think it's sort of the illusion of influence of more followers means I'm going to make more money. That's the opposite of true. And honestly, it's misleading, because it's really counterproductive. You're telling people go try to get viral. But virality doesn't equate to money. “ - Michelle
Gain insight into:
Michelle Berman’s Journey & Background – Michelle shares her transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship, her passion for fitness, and how her experiences shaped her approach to business.
The Power of Social Media Prospecting – Michelle explains why traditional social media marketing (focused on likes and followers) is ineffective and emphasizes prospecting strategies that create meaningful client connections.
Content Creation & Personal Branding – She discusses how real estate and mortgage professionals can leverage their unique skills, passions, and personal interests to differentiate themselves online and attract clients organically.
The Engagement Tracker & Structured Outreach – Michelle introduces a five-day engagement strategy that helps professionals use social media intentionally to build and nurture relationships with potential clients.
70. Building a Brand & Generating Leads Through Social & SEO with Norman Kinsey III
Season 1
Monday, February 24, 2025 • Duration 28:55
If you’re not using social media and SEO to grow your real estate brand, you’re leaving money on the table.
Norman Kinsey III, aka Mr. Liftoff, breaks down how to niche down, create valuable content, and turn your online presence into a lead-generating machine.
From starting Liftoff Agent in a garage to helping agents scale their businesses, Norman shares the tools and strategies that actually work—like Hotjar, VideoAsk, and Warmly. Plus, he dives into the power of YouTube, passive prospecting, and why giving back is key to long-term success.
Ready to take your brand to the next level? Let’s go.
“Sometimes in life, you just have to, roll the punches, and you have just to pivot quick. And that's what I did.”-Norman Kinsey III
Hear more about:
Growing the Business Online and Helping Agents
The Power of YouTube and Passive Prospecting
Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital Space
Giving Back and Future Goals
About Norman Kinsey III:
Norman grew up in Pleasanton, California, and graduated from Foothill High School in 2005. After dabbling in several industries including nightclub promotion and outsourced personal assistant work, he started his entrepreneurial journey at 23 years old. Being so close to Silicon Valley, he wanted to serve and support an industry online but didn't have a clear direction. Then by chance, he stumbled upon J Rockcliff Realtors in the East Bay. It's here he started calling 350 of their agents to understand their real estate businesses and digital marketing pain points, and to see how he could support and serve them with amazing real estate marketing.
Fast forward to 10 years later, 16,000 agents met, 5,000 agents, serviced, and now has hundreds of agents with Liftoff Agent monthly programs in 17 different states and Canada, and a team of 20 stretched over the globe! We are growing rapidly and building innovative custom positioning programs that drive individual agents, teams, and brokerage results. Norman is here to give you the tools to expand and scale your real estate business!
69. Work-Life Integration & Leadership in Real Estate with John Tiller
Season 2
Monday, February 17, 2025 • Duration 29:31
How do you balance ambition with life’s challenges? John Tiller’s 25-year journey in real estate offers a blueprint for integrating personal and professional success. From a career pivot out of banking to navigating personal tragedy, John’s story is one of resilience and purpose.
Now focused on coaching and mentorship, John shares his philosophy on whole life coaching, financial stability, and long-term impact. With tools like his health score resource and podcast, he equips real estate professionals to align their goals with their values.
Ready to lead with intention and build a life that works as hard as you do? This episode is your guide.
“There's a lie out there that you can't have it all, and the truth is that if you're intentional about it, you can have it all.”-John Tiller
Hear more about:
Return to Real Estate and Coaching
Whole Life Coaching and Business Strategy
Integration of Personal and Professional Life
The Role of Coaching in Personal and Professional Growth
About John Tiller:
John Tiller is a Real Estate Broker, Investor and Leadership Coach.
John and his teams have SOLD over $1 Billion of real estate during his 25-year career; including everything from starter homes to multi-million dollar developments; property management and real estate fund management. John is also an active investor buying dozens of properties per year and he currently leads his team F4 Realty @ REAL Broker.
In 2024, John launched the MegaTeam Mastermind podcast where he interviews top MegaTeam leaders and the people who support them. He also launched MegaTeam Mentor coaching for team leaders who want to scale their business, get their time back, and love their business again.
68. Work, Life & Love: A Real Talk About Marriage & Entrepreneurship with Jennifer and David Staats
Season 2
Monday, February 10, 2025 • Duration 22:05
Love, business, and family—can you really have it all?
David and Jennifer get real about the highs and lows of marriage and entrepreneurship. From managing hectic schedules to prioritizing family time, they share the strategies that keep their relationship strong.
You’ll hear how open communication, flexibility, and a simple yet powerful piece of advice—giving more than you receive—help them navigate the demands of career and family life. They also discuss the importance of setting an example for their children and staying grounded through self-reflection.
If you’re balancing love and ambition, this episode offers real talk and real solutions.
“If both people go into the relationship and they're expecting to give 50% of their effort and then get 50% in return. It's bound to fail. But if both people go into it and they're expecting to give more than they receive, it works better that way.” -David Staats
Hear more about:
Balancing Careers and Family Life
Keeping the Relationship Strong Despite Busy Schedules
67. The Future of Real Estate: Blending Social Media & Traditional Marketing Hannah Dubyne
Season 2
Monday, February 3, 2025 • Duration 16:54
What’s the secret to standing out in real estate? It’s all about blending the old with the new. In this episode, you’ll hear how Hannah Dubin turned a canceled finance internship during COVID-19 into a thriving real estate career by mastering both digital marketing and traditional strategies.
Hannah shares her journey of starting with homemade cooking videos before hiring a videographer to level up her content game. Her advice? Dive in with self-shot videos and stay consistent. Paired with market expertise and open houses, her approach proves that success lies in being well-rounded and authentic.
Ready to transform your real estate marketing? This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.
“I think it's important to be well-rounded and not just have one lead source. And I see people fall into that trap these days. They only want to be about Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube, but you do have to be well rounded.” -Hannah Dubyne
Hear more about:
Connecting with Clients Through Video
Digital Marketing and Social Media Presence
Early Business Strategy and Market Knowledge
Content Creation and Consistency
About Hannah Dubyne:
Hannah has been serving clients since 2020. She serves about 60 clients a year in Vancouver/Camas WA area and loves digital marketing and video strategies.
66. Leading with Heart: Christine McCoy’s Approach to Real Estate and Community
Season 2
Monday, January 27, 2025 • Duration 22:13
Success starts with the heart.
Christine McCoy, owner of the Real McCoy Group at Coldwell Banker in Bethany Beach, Delaware, shares how her passion for community and a commitment to excellence drive her business. From sponsoring events for children to leading a team of top-tier agents, Christine emphasizes the importance of giving back and cultivating a supportive, values-driven culture.
You’ll explore her approach to building a "Navy SEAL team" of agents through life and real estate coaching, one-on-one meetings, and a focus on professionalism and responsiveness. Christine also offers insights into managing challenging situations and learning from mistakes, all while maintaining clear communication and a client-first mindset.
Ready to learn how heart and hustle can transform a business? Visit therealmccoygroup.com to connect with Christine and her team.
“I want people who are going to make it that far to believe in themselves, believe in the process, and be willing to put in the work. Really, it's not a magic bullet. You have to do the work, and you have to put in the hours, or you're not going to get there.” -Christine McCoy
Hear more about:
Community Involvement and Personal Philosophy
Building a Close-Knit Team
Handling Mistakes and Maintaining Professionalism
Challenges and Mistakes in Building a Team
About Christine McCoy:
With over 20 years in business, sales, and marketing, Christine brings a passion for excellence in service to every transaction.
As the founder and leader of The Real McCoy Group, she is an award-winning agent and has grown her team of top producers in the Delaware and Maryland Coastal area, consistently ranking in the Top 5 Large teams for Coldwell Banker Realty of the Mid-Atlantic.
65. From Burnout to Balance: The Power of Leverage in Real Estate with Jessica Boswell
Season 2
Monday, January 20, 2025 • Duration 22:09
What’s your blueprint for success? This episode dives into balancing big ambitions with personal joy. From crushing race goals to doubling a business, Jessica shares how she blends strategy and heart to achieve it all.
Jessica, a mother of two and real estate team leader in Connecticut, reveals how she scaled from 40 units to 100 by hiring a transaction coordinator and leveraging tools like Monday.com and Follow Up Boss. Her vision for 2025 includes renovating her office, taking family vacations, and fostering a thriving, supportive team.
If you’re ready to level up while keeping burnout at bay, this episode is your next step.
“I don't think we have to choose between quality and quantity. Call me crazy but I would like to have both.” -Jessica Boswell
Hear more about:
Building a Team and Leveraging Resources
Reside Platform and Community Support
Superpower and Leadership Style
Tools and Technology
About Jessica Boswell:
Jessica Boswell is one of Connecticut's top real estate agents! Ranked in the top 0.1% of agents in the state and the top 1.5% nationwide, Jessica has personally helped over 200 clients buy and sell homes across all 8 counties in the last three years.
Born and raised in Connecticut, Jessica knows every corner of the state and uses her experience to deliver outstanding results for her clients. She’s known for selling homes quickly and for top dollar, thanks to her expertise as a Seller Representative Specialist and Pricing Strategy Advisor.
With a full-time support team, clear processes, and extended operating hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day, Jessica ensures her clients always feel confident and informed throughout their journey. She would be honored to help you with your next move!
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Real Estate Stability Amid Economic Uncertainty: While market volatility and political decisions (like tariffs) affect stocks, Kevin argues that real estate and private debt offer more stability and serve as inflation hedges, making them attractive even during uncertain times.
About Kevin Amolsch:
Kevin is a successful investor and lender, specializing in creative real estate funding.His company manages multiple mortgage funds and is approaching $1 billion in funding
The Handshake Concept & Primary Skill Identification – She shares the importance of crafting a strong introduction (or "handshake") that sparks curiosity, helps control the narrative, and creates opportunities for deeper conversations and business growth.
About Michelle Berman-Mikel:
Michelle is a former Division 1 swimmer, turned competitive cross-fitter, turned female entrepreneur and now Instagram expert. Michelle is also a certified speaker, teacher, Writer and coach as part of her creation: the Beyond The Method™️ course. This program has allowed Michelle to introduce an approach with Realtors *& Lo’s using Instagram unlike anything you’ve seen before. She prides herself on making things seem simple enough that “anyone” can do it and her passion keeps everyone interested and excited to learn. She puts the emphasis on the power of psychology to truly tap into the power of Active prospecting and the potential lead opportunities Instagram provides. She has also been married to her retired special forces husband (Dave) for almost 5 years and has one incredible 3 year old son, Knox!
He has coached hundreds of agents, brokers and team leaders across multiple brands with a focus on living a full life and leaving a legacy that makes an impact, without sacrificing family.
John is a speaker and trainer at international real estate industry conferences and has been featured on radio, television and podcasts for his ability to simplify the complex world of real estate into useful, bite-sized pieces of information easily digested by agents, investors and consumers.
He also travels with his family sharing their faith-based inspirational story of Hope after Tragedy.
Sellers come to The Real McCoy team with confidence and trust in the research, real time market data, and knowledge to price their home correctly, to reach a balance of maximizing the selling price, price and minimizing the time on market.
Buyers can be assured that The Real McCoy team will work tirelessly to find the home of their dreams and negotiate the best possible price for their purchase with ease and expertise. Christine McCoy truly does love what she does. When Christine began her real estate career, she wanted it to be truly rewarding, and she has found that and more. Driven with a passion for her work, she is focused and leads by example as an Agent that achieves success while yielding the best results for her clients.
