The Production Playbook with Matt Miale

The Simple System That Built 65% Market Share — Susan Lombardo’s PlaybookWhat does it take to go from zero experience to 65% market share in multiple neighborhoods?This week on The Production Playbook – Leadership & Personal Development Series, Matt Miale sits down with Susan Lombardo (Atlanta, GA) — former catastrophe insurance adjuster turned dominant real estate force.Susan breaks down:• Why “Simple gets done” is her entire system• How one monthly postcard built 65% market share• The exact 4-month timeline to her first listing• How to become the “Mayor” of your neighborhood• Why data + consistency beats talent• How she built a bulletproof vendor authority system• And why mindset > background🌐 Susan’s website:https://lombardohomegroup.com📍 Follow Susan on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lombardohomegroup/📚 Want Susan’s full framework?She teaches it through MAPS Coaching in the 7-week Fast Track class:“Become the Mayor of Your Geographical Farm”https://mapscoaching.com/program/become-the-mayor-of-your-geographical-farm/In this program, Susan teaches agents how to:• Choose the right farm using data• Build an ultra-consistent mailer rhythm• Position yourself as the neighborhood authority• Leverage vendors without giving away control• Turn geography into predictable listings

Matt Miale welcomes Sarah Reynolds — CEO of the powerhouse EmpowerHome Team — for a candid, high-energy deep dive into leadership, scale, motherhood, health, and building a business that genuinely empowers people.Sarah explains how she went from helping her mom’s small real-estate business to running a multi-state organization closing more than 2,000 transactions a year and on pace for $1.1B in annual sales volume. She and Matt break down what success really requires behind the scenes — the messy seasons, the intentional trade-offs, the leadership evolution, and the systems that keep everything moving forward.They get into:How one stack of “old, crusty leads” became the launchpad for an empireHow to rise above industry noise and keep your business simple and focusedThe truth about building big while raising kids — and bringing them alongGrace over perfection: how to win the day when your life is fullWhy progress beats idealism, and how leaders stay grounded in busy seasonsThis is one of the most insightful and relatable leadership episodes we’ve ever recorded — especially for anyone striving to grow a business and a life at the same time.Sarah Reynolds is the CEO of EmpowerHome Team, one of the fastest-growing and most influential real estate teams in the country, operating across 10 official locations throughout Virginia, Maryland, DC, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Florida, and Colorado. Her team is on pace for $1.1 billion in sales volume this year.After entering the business in 2006, she became the operational leader at age 24 and has since led EmpowerHome to multiple appearances on the Inc. 5000 list. Sarah is also co-founder of HerBestLife, a national leadership organization for women entrepreneurs, and co-host of the top-rated Empire Builders Podcast.🎧 Empire Builders Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/empire-building/id1512633202The Miale Teamhttps://mialeteam.comEmpowerHome Teamhttps://empowerhome-team.com

In this quick follow-up to our Turkey Drive kickoff episode, Bennett Forrest sits down with Miale Team agent Shane Mason to share exciting news:This year, our Annual Turkey Drive is expanding to Shelton!Shane breaks down the need in Fairfield & New Haven Counties, why the expansion matters, and how local partner Marketplace Kitchen & Bar stepped up to host a second drop-off location.If you’re shopping that morning, swinging by for brunch, or just want to make a difference, this episode has everything you need to know.Marketplace Kitchen & Bar – Shelton811 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton, CT 06484📞 (203) 538-5524🗓 Saturday, November 22⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocated right near Big Y, ShopRite, and Stop & Shop — making grab-and-drop donations incredibly easy.West Hartford Town Hall (Rear Lot)🗓 Sunday, November 23⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PMLast year, our team collected 155 turkeys — and this year, we’re aiming much higher by activating multiple counties and community partners. All donations support Connecticut Foodshare, helping families across the state enjoy a meaningful Thanksgiving meal.If you can’t make it in person, monetary donations go even further — Connecticut Foodshare can stretch $1 into up to 5 meals.Bennett ForrestFeaturing Shane Mason, The Miale TeamInstagram: https://instagram.com/themialeteamFacebook: https://facebook.com/themialeteamYouTube: https://youtube.com/@themialeteamWebsite: https://www.themialeteam.com

Marine veteran, entrepreneur, and high-performance coach Neal Conlon joins Matt Miale for a powerful conversation on mindset, resilience, and personal growth.Neal shares his journey from the mailroom at Guggenheim Partners to the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies — and why he kept walking away to pursue purpose over prestige. Together they explore how ego complicates success, why every problem is ultimately solvable, and how trust fuels abundance in both business and life.If you’ve ever felt stuck or overcomplicated your own success, this one will reset your perspective.HighlightsFrom the Marine Corps to Wall Street — and back to purposeHow to turn obstacles into opportunitiesWhy “Before you have an emotional problem, you have a math problem”The speed of trust and the power of simplicityDesigning a life and business you actually want“Before You Have an Emotional Problem, You Have a Math Problem”ConnectGuest: Neal Conlon — @iamnealconlon | nealconlon.comHost: Matt Miale — @mattmiale | @themialeteam | themialeteam.comPodcast: The Production Playbook – Leadership & Personal Development Series

We’re kicking off the Client Experience Playbook! Bennett Forrest and Deb Ortega sit down to talk about what makes The Miale Team’s approach to community and client care so unique — from hosting ballgames and local events to organizing their annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive in partnership with Connecticut Foodshare.They cover what “client experience” truly means, why giving back is built into the culture of the team, and how something as simple as a frozen turkey can make a real difference for thousands of families across Connecticut.Hosts: Bennett Forrest and Deb OrtegaProducer: Bennett Forrest0:00 Intro – Welcome to The Client Experience Playbook0:40 Meet Deb Ortega – Director of Events & Community Relations2:00 How The Miale Team gives back through service and empowerment3:00 VIP Client Events – Sports, family fun, and staying connected6:00 Preferred Vendor Program – Supporting local businesses and clients7:00 Partnering with Connecticut Foodshare to fight food insecurity9:00 How the $10-for-$10 donation program raised $22K in a year10:00 The origin of the West Hartford Turkey Drive (“Let’s make it a festival!”)12:00 How Foodshare turns $1 into 5–10 meals13:00 Why the need is greater than ever (50,000 families statewide)13:45 Event details – Sunday Nov 22, 10 AM–2 PM, West Hartford Town Hall14:45 Goal for 2025 – Collect 200 turkeys and expand to Shelton15:30 Closing thoughts – It’s about community, not just closing deals📞 Ready to talk real estate? Contact us today:➡️ Call: (860) 539-2255➡️ Website: https://www.themialeteam.comFollow The Miale Team:➡️ Instagram: @themialeteamkw➡️ Facebook: facebook.com/MialeTeam➡️ YouTube: @themialeteamkw

In this episode, Matt sits down with Jennifer Henry — a powerhouse real estate coach, speaker, and leadership mentor known for developing agents into confident, service-driven professionals.Jen shares the mindset shifts, standards, and personal disciplines that separate average agents from impact-driven leaders. You’ll hear real talk on accountability, ownership, emotional resilience, and how to build a business that aligns with your values — not your ego.In this conversation:Why leadership starts with leading yourself firstThe mindset that unlocks growth during tough market cyclesHow to create structure, clarity, and purpose inside your businessThe power of community, coaching, and doing the inner workPractical steps to develop consistency and confidenceIf you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re capable of more but need a reset — this episode will light the fire.📞 Ready to talk real estate? Contact us today:➡️ Call: (860) 539-2255➡️ Website: https://www.themialeteam.comFollow The Miale Team on Social Media!➡️ INSTAGRAM: @themialeteamkw➡️ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/MialeTeam➡️ YOUTUBE: @themialeteamkw

Matt and Kori reflect on their nearly 10 years in business together, the personal and professional bond they've built, and why it's important newer team members hear stories from agents like Kori. Kori is one of the longest-tenured and highest-performing agents on the team, and in this interview, she shares her journey from paralegal to powerhouse real estate agent.Key Themes:1. Early Career and Work Ethic:Kori started as a paralegal in Hartford, then moved into outside sales in office supply, gaining discipline and mentorship from a business owner who helped shape her professionalism.She recalls being told: "Go buy clothes that make you feel confident." — a gesture that made a lifelong impact.2. Transition into Real Estate:Bought her first house with the help of Maurice Richardson (RE/MAX) who invited her to help with CRM tasks. He quickly recognized her interest and drive and encouraged her to get licensed."I just went. I didn’t stop." — Her business took off quickly because of her willingness to work and ask questions.3. Lessons in Mindset:"The easiest form of energy is complaining."Kori had to learn that if she wanted to grow, she had to stay positive and avoid falling into patterns of negativity."Nobody follows the complainer. They follow the person who says, ‘It’s hard—and we’re going to win anyway.’”4. Why She Succeeded in Real Estate:Treated it like a job from day one — office hours, professional dress, consistent learning.Took every course available: ABR, GRI, Broker’s License, etc.“I didn’t treat real estate like a TV show. I treated it like a business.”5. What She’d Tell Her Younger Self:"Keep better records." But more importantly: "Start thinking like a business owner."She wishes she treated herself like the CEO of a company earlier.6. Still Learning:Even after 25+ years in the business, Kori stays learning-based. She reads, attends conferences, trains new agents, and still wakes up with the same drive."I get dressed every day, I show up, and I go to work."Closing Thoughts:Real estate is not glamorous. It’s a job. And when you show up consistently with a heart to serve, there is alwayssomeone to help."You don’t help people to get business. You help people because you care."Next Episode: Part 2 of Kori Eagle’s interview coming soon.Subscribe to: The Miale Team Production Playbook – Agent Interview Series on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Follow Us:@themialeteamkw#MialeTeam #AgentInterviewSeries #KoriEagle #RealEstatePodcast #LeadWithValue

Bennett Forrest has worn many hats—ESPN broadcast pro, investor, top-producing buyer’s agent, and now podcast producer for The Miale Team. In this episode, Matt Miale sits down with Bennett to revisit how it all started, the missteps, the aha moments, and the gritty cold calls that shaped his real estate career.We talk about: ✅ Why real estate isn’t a get-rich-quick business (and what new agents get wrong)✅ The reality of investor coaching and what actually works✅ Early days with the team, learning scripts, setting appointments, and riding shotgun on listing consults✅ When Matt said, “Pick up the phone”—and what that moment changed✅ The power of curiosity and why being “learning-based” unlocks everything✅ Finding joy in helping buyers—even 15 years in✅ What it’s like growing a team and podcasting alongside a longtime friend🎙 QUOTE:“Do what you love—even if buyers take more time or smaller commission. You’ll work harder and last longer doing what lights you up.” – Bennett Forrest

From Olympic bronze medalist to TV anchor to mental health advocate, Margaux Farrell has mastered the art of reinvention—and the courage it takes to slow down, let go of perfection, and find joy in the everyday. In this powerful conversation, she opens up about burnout, imposter syndrome, high-performance pressure, and redefining success on your own terms.Margaux’s story is packed with real talk and hard-earned wisdom:✅ Why bronze medalists might be the happiest 🥉✅ The high achiever's trap: always chasing the next goal✅ Her mental health journey and what therapy taught her✅ Leaving the news desk for meaningful nonprofit work✅ The power of routine, front-loading your day, and winning small✅ What true work-life balance looks like (and when to claim it)✅ Redefining success: from Olympic pools to holiday dinners at homeWhether you're sprinting toward a milestone or questioning the next move, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and reconnect with what really matters.🧠 Quote of the Day:“I used to think success meant the next big thing. Now, success is being home on Christmas morning.” – Margaux Farrell💬 Featuring: Matt Miale, Margaux Farrell

In this episode of the Agent Interview Series, Matt Miale sits down with Joe Dabkowski, a standout leader and top-producing agent on The Miale Team. Joe opens up about his journey from competitive hockey player and coach to building a successful real estate business. He shares the mindset, habits, and systems that shaped his career — from launching with zero debt and two Zamboni-driving jobs, to becoming a trusted advisor with a long-term vision of building wealth and freedom. If you’re a newer agent, a coach, or a team leader looking to understand what creates staying power in this business, Joe’s story is packed with insight and authenticity.📌 Topics Covered:Joe’s path from athletics to entrepreneurshipLessons from coaching and running a landscaping businessWhy structure matters for free spiritsThe role of repetition and scripting in skill masteryBuilding a consult framework and gaining trustRejection, delayed gratification, and high-performance habitsWhy relationship-building > hunting for dealsLong-term goals: investments, new construction, and golf course life⛳️ Joe's Advice to His Younger Self: “Meet more people. Build stronger relationships. And buy more houses sooner.”

Kristan Cole shares a jaw-dropping story of resilience, vision, and no-excuses leadership.In this powerful episode, Matt Miale welcomes one of the industry’s most influential leaders for a vulnerable, no-BS conversation about:✅ Growing a business in the face of adversity✅ Building wealth through preparation and consistency✅ The path from survival → success → significance → transformation✅ Why most agents quit right before it starts working✅ The two scripts every open house agent should memorizeKristan is sharp, direct, and generous with her wisdom — from her early days in a 9-person Alaskan town to running 15 offices, owning multiple ancillary businesses, and mentoring thousands of agents across the country.Stick around for the part where she breaks down the exact script to use at an open house and how 30–45 minutes of daily lead gen can change your life.🧠 Quote of the Day:“The more I know, the more I know I know nothing.” – Bennett Forrest, on turning 50 🎉💬 Featuring: Matt Miale, Kristan Cole, Bennett Forrest#KristanCole #MattMiale #LeadershipSeries #RealEstateGrowth #KellerWilliams #PersonalDevelopment #OpenHouseScripts #RealEstateLeadership #TheMialeTeam #FromSurvivalToSuccess #RealTalk

In this episode of the Agent Interview Series, we sit down with Dan Leyden, a top-producing agent, investor, and property management entrepreneur based in Stamford, Connecticut.Dan’s journey is anything but typical — from lobster traps and maple syrup in Western Massachusetts to property flipping and investment strategies in Fairfield County.He shares the lessons learned from his early investments, the challenges of building a real estate team, and the systems that now fuel his success across three separate income streams: real estate sales, investing, and property management.🎙️ Topics Covered:How Dan built his first rental portfolio starting with $200 of Apple stockThe struggles of being a solo agent vs. joining a teamWhy he ditched Zillow leads and focused on agent referralsLessons from starting, scaling, and restructuring a real estate teamBuilding a scalable property management business with over 70 doorsUsing real estate to fund a lifestyle of family, freedom, and legacyWhether you’re a solo agent, a team leader, or an aspiring investor, Dan’s story will inspire you to think bigger and work smarter.

In this episode of the Agent Interview Series, we sit down with Erin Burnap — a former Pampered Chef director turned top-producing real estate agent. Erin opens up about her path from corporate finance to direct sales to finding her passion in real estate.She shares what it was like breaking into the industry during the chaos of the post-COVID housing market, how her background in sports and leadership shaped her resilience, and why being an empath is her secret weapon with clients.Whether you’re a new agent, a team leader, or someone navigating your own career pivot, Erin’s story will leave you inspired.🎙️ Topics Covered:Leaving a successful sales career for real estateLearning real estate in a post-COVID “Hunger Games” marketBalancing empathy and boundaries as a high-achieving agentThe power of mindset, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with “stars”🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts.

In this kickoff episode of the Leadership and Personal Development Series, we sit down with Gene Arant, a seasoned real estate leader and team builder with over two decades of experience. Gene shares his insights on cultivating a winning team culture, balancing personal growth with professional development, and the key leadership lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting out in your leadership journey, Gene’s practical advice will inspire you to lead with confidence and authenticity.

In the very first episode of the Agent Interview Series, Matt Miale sits down with Erin Anderson to talk about what it really takes to thrive in real estate — from early mentorship lessons to treating the business like a full-time job.Erin shares how radical ownership shaped her mindset, how she navigates tough moments, and why showing up with intention is the secret to long-term success.Whether you’re just getting started or rebuilding momentum, this one’s packed with real-talk wisdom from an agent who lives it every day.🎧 In This Episode:The advice that changed Erin’s mindset foreverWhy real estate requires full-time commitmentHow to learn from challenges — and not repeat themBalancing discipline with self-compassionConnect with us:@themialeteamkw | www.themialeteam.com#TheMialeTeam #AgentInterview #RealEstatePodcast #MattMiale #ErinAnderson #RealEstateLife #KellerWilliams #AgentJourney #CareerGrowth #TheMialeTeamPlaybook