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LeadingLane Podcast
LeadingLane Podcast
Author: LeadingLane
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© 2026 LeadingLane
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Welcome to LeadingLane, the go-to podcast for aspiring and seasoned real estate professionals! Hosted by Steven L. Burch and Ashley Fredrick, two seasoned brokers with a flair for the industry, this show delves into the core of what makes real estate tick. Each episode is a journey through essential topics like mastering time management, unraveling the complexities of real estate finances, and sharing authentic experiences from the field. Get valuable tips and tricks, whether you're a newbie or a pro. This podcast is your key to thriving in real estate.
114 Episodes
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In this episode, we dive into one of those "small" habits that actually has a massive impact on your career and relationships — being on time. We talk through why punctuality matters in leadership, during client showings, and in everyday business. We share real stories about how simple communication saved client relationships and how a lack of it can cost you. Whether it's a team meeting or a listing preview, showing up on time shows people you value them — and that you mean business.
In this episode, we get honest about what happens when we pull away from the people who matter most. We talk about treating your energy like a bank account — auditing what fills your cup and what drains it — and how easy it is to accidentally isolate yourself, especially during the slower seasons. We share real stories about bear hugs in hallways, unexpected texts, and coffee meetings that reminded us why genuine connection is the foundation of everything we do in business and life.
In this episode, we tackle one of the most frustrating challenges in real estate—stale listings that just won't move. We break down what agents should actually be doing to get a property sold, from regular CMAs and description refreshes to having those tough but necessary conversations with sellers. We also dig into what not to do, including why pulling a listing off the market to "reset" days on market is a disservice to your seller. Plus, we explore the concept of "buying the listing" and why honest pricing from the start saves everyone time and heartache.
In this episode, we sit down with our friend Leon Nasar—broker, developer, and one of the most straightforward leaders in the business. We dig into what it really takes to scale a brokerage, why the best recruiting pitch has nothing to do with commission splits, and how recognizing culture over numbers keeps agents around for the long haul. Leon shares how ballroom dancing with his wife Lisa taught him the same lesson real estate did—it takes years of practice to make anything look effortless. We also hear about his kids making waves in special education and Broadway, and why Leon believes success is simply a choice.
In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Jones, a 33-year real estate veteran and co-owner of NextHome Superior Living in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We dive into why tribalism is the biggest threat facing our industry, the importance of building authentic relationships, and how Stephanie balances selling homes with launching Kyther ID—a tech startup designed to eliminate discrimination and fraud in real estate transactions. Connect with Stephanie at www.StephanieSells.com.Tech Startup: www.KytherID.com Inspiration Board: https://pin.it/hwlsR6GDX
In this episode, we break down the Compass and Anywhere merger and what it really means for agents on the ground. We discuss why chasing headlines about big corporate moves won't grow your business—but doubling down on relationships, local expertise, and your craft will. We also explore the private listing debate and how transparency with sellers is always the winning strategy. If you're feeling overwhelmed by constant industry changes, this conversation will ground you in what actually matters.
We've all been there—watching "Potential Spam" flash across our screens and hitting decline without a second thought. In this episode, we share how answering unknown calls has led to real business, including a lead Steven picked up just hours before recording. We break down why paying for leads won't help if you're not already comfortable answering your phone, and why getting through 100 "nos" might be the best practice you can get. Sometimes the biggest opportunities come from the calls we almost didn't take.
In this episode, we break down exactly how one of Ashley's clients started showing up as a ChatGPT recommendation—and landed a listing appointment because of it. We dive into why your Google Business Profile is more important than ever, and why the "tortoise" approach to marketing beats chasing every shiny new tactic. We also get real about the basics most agents overlook, like making sure your contact information is actually findable. If you're tired of overcomplicating your online presence, this one's for you.
In this episode, we explore the key difference between being a nice leader and being a kind leader—and why it matters more than you think. We discuss how avoiding conflict might feel comfortable, but it often leaves your team confused and frustrated. We break down practical ways to deliver clear, direct communication while still treating people with care. If you've ever struggled with tough conversations or worried about being too blunt, this one's for you.
In this episode, we explore what the Year of the Snake taught us about shedding old habits, relationships, and patterns that no longer serve our growth. We dive into what the upcoming Year of the Fire Horse means for 2026—wild independence, trailblazing momentum, and the freedom to run toward what truly matters. We also share practical reflections on learning to say no, protecting your bandwidth, and building leaders so you can step back without things falling apart.
In this episode, we sit down with Ashley to explore how she built a thriving furnished apartment business by serving traveling nurses in her medical community. We dive into the differences between short-term and long-term rentals, how to get started with just one property, and why this model can be a game-changer for building passive income. We also talk through the realities of property management — the wins, the wild tenant stories, and what it takes to make rental real estate work for your future.
We dive into the growing trend of clients using ChatGPT to make real estate decisions—and why it's becoming a compliance nightmare. We share real stories of buyers refusing to pay earnest money and sellers skipping repairs because "ChatGPT said so." We explore how AI should be your force multiplier, not your replacement, and why the human connection in transactions can never be outsourced to a computer.
In this episode, we dive into how to handle negativity and criticism—whether it's from competitors, keyboard warriors, or even well-meaning colleagues. We talk about why having fun at work actually drives better results, and how leaders set the emotional "weather" for their teams. We also explore the power of giving feedback the right way and why the haters watching your content are still helping your engagement. If you've ever let someone's opinion hold you back, this one's for you.
In this episode, we get real about what happens when life forces you to step away from your business—and why that's actually a good thing. We share how setting firm boundaries and building simple systems can protect your sanity and your clients. We also talk about the importance of asking for help, offering help to others, and why being available 24/7 doesn't make you a better agent. As we head into the holiday season, we challenge you to be proactive, not reactive, and to make space for the people and things that matter most.
We're celebrating our 100th episode and reflecting on nearly two years of showing up every week. We share how our mindset shifted from chasing likes to understanding that our message reaches far more people than we realize. We discuss the confidence we've gained, the meaningful connections we've made, and how consistency compounds when you're doing something that fills your cup. We also revisit some of our favorite guest moments and talk about what's ahead for Leading the Lane.
In this episode, we explore the uncomfortable truth that we're often the last ones to realize we're stuck in our own limiting patterns—just like fish are the last to discover they're in water. We break down the critical difference between urgency and important work, challenge the myth that luck just "happens" to prepared people, and talk about why commitment has nothing to do with how many hours you clock. We also dive into why small acts of kindness and genuine human connection are becoming revolutionary in a world that's increasingly self-centered. This is a conversation about waking up, showing up, and choosing to be the change instead of waiting for circumstances to shift.
We dive into the hot topic of 50-year mortgages and whether they're truly the solution to housing affordability. We explore the equity concerns, compare them to credit card debt cycles, and discuss why focusing solely on loan terms misses the bigger picture. We also examine smarter alternatives like down payment assistance programs, financial literacy initiatives, and addressing the root supply shortage. Join us as we unpack what really matters when it comes to making homeownership accessible.
In this episode, we talk about what it really means to stay in touch with your people—and why it's more than just automation and email campaigns. We explore the difference between staying top of mind and building true relationships, from pop-bys and handwritten notes to becoming the mayor of your own community. We share practical strategies for organizing your sphere of influence, creating meaningful touchpoints, and removing the sales aspect to focus on genuine connection. Whether it's remembering wedding anniversaries or showing up at local events, we break down how the compound effect of consistent, thoughtful gestures builds a referral-based business that follows you everywhere.
In this episode, we share some of the funniest and most unexpected moments we've experienced while showing properties. From clients taking tumbles to discovering unusual animals in vacant homes, we walk through the wild, unpredictable side of real estate that keeps us on our toes. We also talk about how these memorable experiences often lead to lasting client relationships and remind us why no two days in this business are ever the same. These stories prove that real estate is anything but boring, and the unexpected moments are what make it all worthwhile.
We're tackling one of the hottest pain points in today's real estate market: inspection negotiations that are causing deals to fall apart. We dive into why inspections are back with a vengeance, how to set realistic expectations with sellers from day one, and the exact strategies we use to navigate repair requests without losing the deal. We also share why being upfront and honest with clients—even when it's uncomfortable—is actually your secret weapon for building long-term relationships and generating referrals.






















