Real Talk with Leigh Brown

Estate planning isn't just about money, it's about protecting the people you love. In this episode, we sit down with Atty. Lin Wang for a candid conversation about what really happens when families don't plan ahead. From trusts and guardianship to the hidden costs of probate, you'll walk away with questions you didn't know you needed to ask. Listen in to uncover what's at stake and what you can still do about it.   Key takeaways to listen for Reasons probate can be more costly than most people realize What really drives family conflict after someone dies The key difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts How trusts can protect your assets from lawsuits or creditors Why naming a guardian for your kids is one of the most urgent decisions you can make   About Atty. Lin Wang Atty. Lin is an experienced attorney specializing in asset planning, including trusts and wills. With over seven years of practice, she works at a law firm licensed in 24 states, providing expert guidance on estate planning, probate avoidance, and asset protection. She is dedicated to helping clients navigate complex family and legal situations, ensuring their assets are managed and transferred according to their wishes with privacy and efficiency.   Connect with Atty. Lin Email: wanglinlauren@gmail.com Contact Number: 612-231-2060   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.  

Mike Stubbs went to war at 18 and came back with medals, scars, and stories most never hear. In this episode, he opens up about a moment that changed his life and the decades-long mission that followed, plus we'll shed light on the parts of military service that don't make the history books. Listen in for a raw, real conversation that honors courage, connection, and the fight to be remembered.   Key takeaways to listen for What the Purple Heart really means Why Mike volunteered for Vietnam and what happened the day he was shot The story behind Mike's Silver Star and how it was nearly forgotten What it meant to serve as a tunnel rat in Vietnam Mike's out-of-body experience that changed everything   Resources mentioned in this episode Queen City Honor Flight VA Home Loans in 2025: Myths, Facts, and Game-Changing Updates with John Bell III Rebuilding Hope: How the VA Supports Veterans After Disasters – A Conversation with John Bell 364 - VA Home Loan with Executive Director, Mr. John Bell III June 17, 1967: The Battle of Xom Bo II by David J. Hearne   About Mike Stubbs Mike is a highly decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War, serving as a Machine Gunner and Tunnel Rat with the 2nd Battalion/28th Infantry/1st Infantry Division. A committed veterans advocate, he currently serves as Commander of MOPH Combat Wounded Veterans Chapter 634 and is a Board Member for Queen City Honor Flight. Stubbs' dedication has been recognized with significant honors, including the MOPH National Patriot of the Year (2014-2015) and induction into the North Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2018. He continues to live the values learned in service by leading and supporting his fellow Veterans.   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.  

Tara Mychelle doesn't just walk into homes, she listens to them. In this episode, she chats with us to share how intuition, empathy, and unseen energy can shape what happens in real estate. Tune in and you'll never look at a "stuck" listing the same way again!   Key takeaways to listen for How emotional energy can affect the sale of a home Why certain homes feel "off" and how to clear that energy The role of intuition in guiding both buyers and agents How Tara blends biotech and spiritual consulting in her practice What agents can do to help homeowners move forward emotionally   Resources mentioned in this episode Stonewall Jackson House | AMERICAN HERITAGE   About Tara Mychelle Tara is the founder of Soul'd Spaces, a company that blends real estate expertise with energy alignment to help homes sell faster and feel more harmonious. With over 25 years in real estate and more than two decades of experience in energy work, Tara bridges the practical and spiritual sides of home transitions. Through Soul'd Spaces, she helps clients achieve alignment so their homes and lives move forward with intention and transformation.   Connect with Tara Website: Soul'd Spaces Podcast: Rooted & Rising: Stories of Transformation, Intuition, and Soul-Led Healing Instagram: @souldspaces Email: tara@souldspaces.com   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

What happens when a real estate investor turns AI strategist? From content to client care, Alejandra Teran chats with us to share how AI is already transforming the business. If you're wondering how to use AI without losing your voice (or your value), this conversation is your starting line.   Key takeaways to listen for Why agents who resist AI are about to fall behind What "training a GPT" actually means, and how it can save you hours every week Surprising ways AI is reshaping how buyers and sellers find and trust agents Common mistakes agents make with AI tools Real examples of how to use AI in real estate   Resources mentioned in this episode Perplexity ChatGPT   About Alejandra Teran Alejandra is an AI advisor, digital transformation leader, and Salesforce expert with over 25 years of experience helping organizations leverage technology for growth and efficiency.  She empowers professionals to use AI as a superpower, saving time, boosting productivity, and scaling smarter through strategic consulting, training, and automation. Alejandra is also the founder of 10X Cloud Value, a Salesforce consultancy maximizing ROI, and an AI-powered eCommerce venture.   Connect with Alejandra Website: Chief AI Wiz LinkedIn: Alejandra T. - 10X Cloud Value TikTok: @chiefaiwiz Instagram: @chiefaiwiz YouTube: Alejandra Teran - Chief AI Wiz Email: alejandra@chiefaiwiz.com   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Travis Perry didn't just buy his first home at 21, he used it as a launchpad for something bigger. Rooted in faith, discipline, and community, his Hero Training philosophy is reshaping how we think about ownership and legacy. In this episode, we'll uncover the mindset behind building wealth with purpose and why it starts long before the closing table. Hit play to learn how real estate became the foundation for impact that lasts!   Key takeaways to listen for The unexpected lesson Travis learned from buying his first home at 21 What "Hero Training" means and why it starts with discipline How faith and financial literacy work together to build legacy Why Travis teaches mentorship through action, not just advice The deeper reason real estate became his vehicle for purpose   Resources mentioned in this episode HERO TRAINING: THE POWER OF PERSPECTIVE by The Honorable Trab P THE POWER OF POSITION: FOOTBALL AND HERO TRAINING by Charles Perry, et. al. Cash App: Scan to Pay Kingdom Overflow Ministries MERCHANDISE LINK  https://www.redbubble.com/people/HOODSOUL/shop?asc=u   About Travis Perry Travis Perry, known as The Honorable Trab P., is an author, artist, teacher, and consultant who has spent over 26 years in leadership within the manufacturing industry. Alongside his career, he has built creative and educational platforms designed to inspire and empower communities.   Connect with Travis Instagram: @trabperry   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

You think real estate in the U.S. is wild? Wait until you hear how it works in the UK. With sharp wit and zero fluff, Chris Webb unpacks what U.S. agents can learn from the UK model and why being "unscalable" might be your biggest advantage. Tune in for stories you won't believe and insights you didn't know you needed!   Key takeaways to listen for How real estate compensation works in the UK The surprising differences in mortgage approval between the US and UK How self-employed agents in the UK are disrupting the traditional model What it means to "make yourself unscalable" in an AI-driven world The power of thoughtful, unbranded gifts to drive referrals and loyalty   About Chris Webb Chris is the founder of The Estate Agent Consultancy, specialising in helping UK estate agents grow their instructions, improve conversions, and command higher fees. With years of hands-on experience coaching agents, he shares proven strategies for business growth through training, consultancy, and speaking engagements.   Connect with Chris Website: The Estate Agent Consultancy Instagram: @estateagent.consultancy Facebook: Chris Webb YouTube: The Estate Agent Consultancy   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Gretchen Schmidt doesn't do real estate by the book, and that's exactly the point. She brings heart, humor, and clarity to situations most agents would avoid. From unexpected homes to emotional transitions, this episode reveals what it really takes to serve people when real estate gets personal. Tune in for stories that remind us why this work matters!   Key takeaways to listen for What it's like to list a home filled with parrots and shrunken heads Ways calling yourself a "facilitator" changes how clients respond The tools and hacks Gretchen uses to stay emotionally and mentally steady What most people miss about the emotional labor in real estate How to turn a "weird" property into a compelling story that sells   Resources mentioned in this episode HappyLight® Light Therapy Lamps | Verilux® Official Site   About Gretchen Schmidt Gretchen has been in real estate for over 15 years, bringing a strong background in finance and operations to her work. Before entering real estate, she worked for Microsoft and various tech startups, as well as managing capital projects for the Mercer Island School District.   With expertise in data analysis and operational efficiency, Gretchen helps clients simplify the process of selling their homes and ensures they don't miss out on finding their dream property.   Connect with Gretchen Website: Gretchen Schmidt Facebook: Gretchen Schmidt LinkedIn: Gretchen Schmidt Instagram: @gretchen_schmidt_is_here YouTube: Gretchen Schmidt Email: gretchen@gretchen-schmidt.com   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

Corey Milner never set out to become a real estate investor, but one bold move changed everything. In this episode, she shares how life, marriage, and business collided on the road to building a lasting legacy. It's a story of structure, grit, and the kind of grace that keeps you going. Press play to hear how a teacher's mindset turned into a real estate game plan.   Key takeaways to listen for How one commercial property launched Corey's real estate journey Lessons from investing in restaurants and walking away Why lead chasing led to burnout and the need for structure The power of grace in marriage, motherhood, and business How pen-and-paper planning keeps Corey grounded and focused   About Corey Milner Corey is a former educator turned real estate investor and entrepreneur. Alongside her husband, she's built a family-centered portfolio of commercial properties and residential investments while raising four kids and staying grounded in faith, structure, and grace. With over two decades of experience, Corey now mentors others on how to build wealth intentionally, without losing what matters most.   Connect with Corey Facebook: Corey Milner Instagram: @cmilnertherealtor Email: cmilner@arcrealtyco.com   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

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

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

Most people play it safe in real estate, but Tonya Murfin and Angie Mullings did the opposite. In this episode, they join Leigh Brown to share how stepping outside the norm led to unexpected partnership, personal growth, and a podcast that's changing conversations. Hit play to hear what happens when you stop competing and start showing up real.   Key takeaways to listen for How authentic leadership starts with transparency The surprising emotional aftermath of board service Why Tonya and Angie started their podcast, and how it changed their relationship Ways mentorship, legacy, and community make a long-term impact in real estate The power of saying "yes" to leadership, even when the timing isn't perfect   Resources mentioned in this episode Women's Council of REALTORS® National Association of REALTORS® NC REALTORS®   About Angie Mullings and Tonya Murfin Tonya Murfin is a real estate broker-owner and co-host of the Simply Authentic podcast. Known for her deep commitment to board service and REALTOR® leadership, she brings transparency, humor, and heart to every conversation, whether she's mentoring new agents or challenging the status quo.   Angie Mullings is a broker-owner, industry leader, and co-host of the Simply Authentic podcast. With a passion for collaboration and service, she helps elevate the real estate profession through mentorship, authenticity, and a belief that there's room at the table for everyone.   Connect with Angie and Tonya Facebook: Simply Authentic Podcast Instagram: @simplyauthenticpodcast YouTube: Simply Authentic Podcast Email: reproc21@gmail.com | tonya@swmrealty.com   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

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

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

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

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