Real Talk with Leigh Brown

Latest Episodes:

Bridging the Housing Divide: What's Really Happening in Minnesota? With Todd Urbanski Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

The housing market in Minnesota is changing fast with hidden forces shaping it. So in this episode, Todd Urbanski unpacks the real-world impact of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) thinking, municipal fees, and shifting neighborhood dynamics in Minnesota. Tune in for an honest conversation that brings light to today's most pressing housing challenges.

Key takeaways to listen for

What's driving the current housing tension in the Twin Cities?
How immigrant communities are reshaping neighborhoods
Why municipal processes often slow development and how that hurts housing supply
How REALTORS® can advocate for fair planning without fueling division
What civic engagement looks like when it builds community

Resources mentioned in this episode

National Association of REALTORS®

About Todd Urbanski

A licensed REALTOR® since 1999, Todd Urbanski leverages over two decades of experience as a top sales associate, coach, and manager to provide premier residential real estate experience in the Twin Cities. Having lived in the region for over 30 years, he utilizes an extensive professional network and deep local knowledge to deliver value that extends well beyond the initial transaction. Driven by a commitment to excellence and a goal to exceed expectations, Urbanski employs proven systems and resources to minimize the stress of moving, ultimately transforming clients into lifelong advocates and friends.

Connect with Todd

LinkedIn: Todd Urbanski
Contact Number: 612-865-3644

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.

Market Uncertainty Is the Real Risk in Real Estate with Aaron Chapman Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

What happens when housing policy collides with private property rights? We welcome back Aaron Chapman for an unfiltered conversation that challenges how we think about real estate, investing, and economic "solutions." From unsettling market shifts to uncomfortable truths few are willing to say out loud, this episode asks hard questions about ownership, risk, and the future of housing in America.

Key takeaways to listen for

Reasons uncertainty (not headlines) moves real estate markets
How policy changes quietly affect rents and property values
What makes some rental markets far riskier than others
How unconventional ownership models alter who holds the risk
What experienced investors look for when stability is unclear

Resources mentioned in this episode

About Aaron Chapman

Aaron has been a veteran in the finance industry since 1997, helping clients better understand, source, and finance cash-flow positive investment properties. He advises over 100 clients a month in the acquisition and financing of their investment properties and primary residences. Aaron is ranked in the top 1% of mortgage loan processors in the country in an industry of over 300,000 licensed loan originators, closing in excess of 100 transactions per month.

Connect with Aaron

Websites: Www.AaronChapman.com | Www.QuitJerkinOff.com
Instagram: @sgoc_aaron
YouTube: Aaron Chapman
Email: Info@aaronchapman.com

Connect with Leigh

Why Smart Investors Skip the Flip with Scott Wendl Jan 08, 2026

Show notes

Real estate wealth doesn't come from flash, it comes from strategy. In this episode, we chat with seasoned broker and investor Scott Wendl to unpack how smart investors are building long-term wealth without flipping houses. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned pro, this one's packed with perspective-shifting advice you can use today.

Key takeaways to listen for

The story behind Scott's first deal and what it taught him
Why Gen Z buyers are missing big opportunities right now
How to help your kid buy a house
A real-world example of seller financing done right
One mistake that costs thousands and how to avoid it

Resources mentioned in this episode

About Scott Wendl

Scott Wendl has specialized in helping buyers & sellers maximize their real estate experience & exceed expectations since 1996. He is heavily involved in the Des Moines Association of REALTORS® & is a Past President of the Iowa Association of REALTORS®. Scott is also an advocate for protecting home ownership, as well as the real estate profession through the REALTOR® Political Action Committee while being on the Major Investor Council for National Association of REALTORS®.

Connect with Scott

Website: Scottwendl.com
Email: scott@scottwendl.com
Contact Number: (515) 249-9225

Connect with Leigh

New Year, Real Talk: What I'd Do If I Were Starting Fresh Jan 01, 2026

Show notes

Starting a new year doesn't mean you need a total life overhaul. Listen in as I talk about a powerful reframe on resolutions, encouraging you to choose one meaningful goal that reflects who you are and how you want to impact others. If you're ready to set intentions with heart and purpose this 2026, this one's for you.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why choosing one focused goal can create ripple effects across your life
How to set goals that are measurable and aligned with your core values
The difference between speed goals and endurance goals and how to pick yours
Why impact and legacy matter more than productivity in 2026
How to celebrate progress without needing anyone else's applause

Connect with Leigh

Real Talk: You're Allowed to Breathe This Week Dec 25, 2025

Show notes

This Christmas, give yourself the gift of rest and reflection. In this episode, I'll share a gentle reminder to give yourself permission to rest and reconnect with what matters most. Hit play and let this be your permission slip to unplug, breathe, and look up.

Key takeaways to listen for

A reality check on real estate hustle culture and the fear of missing out
What Christmas really means for those who feel broken or behind
How rest, joy, and purpose are connected in your personal and business life
The Star of Bethlehem and why you need to look up more
A reminder that you are someone's joy

Connect with LeighPlease 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.

Squatter Solutions & The Power of Real Estate on TV with Suzanne Rocha Dec 18, 2025

Show notes

Behind closed doors, real estate isn't always what it seems. Leigh sits down with TV expert Suzanne Rocha in an in-depth conversation about how media exposure has shaped her dynamic real estate career. Listen in for real stories, smart strategies, and the kind of conversation you'll definitely remember.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why some sellers prefer no signs, no open houses, and full privacy
The art of choosing referral partners
How to gain trust with high-net-worth clients who "know everything"
What is a professional squatter and how do they remove unwanted guests?
What Suzanne would fix in real estate with one magic wand

About Suzanne Rocha

Suzanne has excelled throughout her career in Marketing and as a highly acclaimed Real Estate Broker. Prior to her success, Suzanne received her degree in Psychology from Holy Names University. You can instantly tell Suzanne must have been a great psychology student with her genuine listening skills and ability to make almost anyone feel comfortable.

Connect with Suzanne

Website: Cal Home
Instagram: @suzannerocha.tv
YouTube: Suzanne Rocha
Email: suzanne@calhomeinfo.com
Contact Number: (800) 893-6665

Connect with Leigh

The Silent Data War in Real Estate and How Agents Can Win with Robert Arauco Dec 11, 2025

Show notes

Zillow says you're their client, but did you ever agree to that?

In today's episode, Robert Arauco pulls back the curtain on how real estate data is being sliced, sold, repackaged, and leveraged against both consumers and REALTORS®. He and Leigh dig into what agents must understand about the new data battlefield, how to protect your clients' privacy, and why owning your tech is the new competitive edge.

Key takeaways to listen for

One simple habit to use the tech you already pay for
The problem with Zillow, Redfin, and who owns your clicks
Can AI follow Fair Housing rules and who's training it?
How to reframe the "I already use Zillow" conversation
What happens to MLS data if the industry fractures?

Resources mentioned in this episode

AI Will Never Replace a Great Negotiator with Tim Burrell

If you want to see what consumer-trusted, agent-protected tech looks like in the real world, download Leigh's One Community Real Estate® app here: 👉 https://qrco.de/onecommunity

Or, if you're an agent ready to build your own branded, data-safe mobile app, book a call with Robert for a special 30% discount using this link: 👉 https://calendly.com/homestackapps/your-real-estate-app-intro-zoom-lb

About Robert Arauco

Robert Arauco is the Executive Vice-President of Sales at HomeStack, a tech company empowering real estate agents with customizable mobile apps. With a background in digital marketing and a passion for privacy-first solutions, Robert helps agents build stronger client relationships through branded tech tools that prioritize data protection, personalization, and modern communication.

Connect with Robert

Website: HomeStack
Instagram: @hancho08 | @homestackapps
LinkedIn: Robert Arauco | HomeStack
YouTube: HomeStack
Facebook: HomeStack
Email: Robert@homestack.com
Contact Number: (949) 357-0454

Connect with Leigh

AI Will Never Replace a Great Negotiator with Tim Burrell Dec 04, 2025

Show notes

Strong negotiation is still a human game, even in an AI-powered world. In this episode, Tim Burrell breaks down how the rise of digital communication and artificial intelligence is reshaping real estate negotiation, for better and worse. From smart prompts to smarter relationships, he explains why tech can boost your prep, but only empathy and emotional intelligence close the deal. Listen in to learn how to lead with people skills while staying tech-savvy!

Key takeaways to listen for

Why AI can't replace emotional intelligence in real estate
The negotiation missteps agents still make in digital spaces
How strong relationships drive client satisfaction and repeat business
What AI tools can do to help you prepare, research, and respond
Why empathy and timing still win over automation

Resources mentioned in this episode

Want to learn how to write better prompts? Email Tim at tim@timburrell.com with the subject line SUPER PROMPT.

About Tim Burrell

Tim is a veteran real estate professional with more than 36 years of experience in the industry. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina with RE/MAX United, Tim brings a diverse background as a broker, general contractor, former attorney, author, and negotiation educator.

A second‑generation real estate professional, he has built a career around improving how realtors communicate and collaborate. Tim now focuses on elevating negotiation skills across the industry through his books, continuing‑education courses, and practical training on integrating AI responsibly into modern real estate practice.

Connect with Tim

Website: Negotiating Consultant
YouTube: Tim Burrell
Facebook: Tim Burrell
Email: tim@timburrell.com
Contact Number: 919-812-5111

Connect with Leigh

Housing Truths They Don't Want You Asking About Nov 28, 2025

Show notes

Leigh Brown pulls back the curtain on the headlines shaping America's housing crisis. From 50-year mortgages and exploding insurance costs to hedge funds, foreign land ownership, and eroding property rights, she breaks down what's really driving prices and why "solutions" from banks and politicians might be making things worse. If you're serious about homeownership, investing, or just keeping the American Dream alive, this Real Talk is a must-listen.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why a 50-year mortgage boosts demand and pushes prices up, not down
How cheap-payment culture traps buyers in long-term debt
The real impact of exploding insurance premiums and reinsurance costs
How hedge funds and corporate owners shape today's housing market
Why property rights are quietly shifting and what that means for homeowners

Resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with Leigh

The REALTOR® Who Refused to Quit: Michael Zinskie's Story Nov 20, 2025

Show notes

After facing a life-altering health crisis, Michael Zinskie found himself starting over, personally and professionally. With raw honesty and a touch of humor, he shares how vulnerability, community, and sheer persistence helped him rebuild both his confidence and his business. Tune in for a conversation that might just shift how you think about success, support, and second chances.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why real estate success requires community, not isolation
How seizures, fear, and medication almost took Mikey out of the business
The power of showing up and letting others help you rebuild
What real vulnerability with clients really looks like
A wild accusation at a showing that changed how Mikey works forever

Resources mentioned in this episode

About Michael Zinskie

Mikey is a dedicated REALTOR® serving Brunswick, Georgia, and the surrounding coastal area. He launched his real estate career in North Carolina in 2005 before ultimately returning to his hometown roots. After facing and overcoming significant health struggles that temporarily put his business and independence on hold, Mikey rebuilt his career with the help of strong family bonds and community support.

Known for his honesty, warmth, and collaborative approach, Mikey brings compassion and real-life perspective to his clients, helping people navigate both real estate transitions and life's tougher moments with unwavering commitment.

Connect with Michael

Instagram: @michaelzinskie
Facebook: Michael Zinskie
Email: mikey@hcrega.com
Contact Number: (912) 602-0839

Connect with Leigh

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