• From World Cup to Brokerage: Lessons in High-Level Performance

    Join Billy Ekofo as he dives into the real estate industry with Dawn Dauphinee, co-owner of Domus Realty. Discover how Nova Scotia's housing market is evolving, the impact of tech and immigration, and the challenges of managing a boutique brokerage.

    Dawn shares her journey from elite rugby athlete to successful real estate professional, highlighting invaluable leadership lessons and the importance of perseverance, positivity, and integrity. Learn about her efforts in empowering women, balancing life as a business owner and mother, and fostering inclusive environments. 

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    56m - Jun 12, 2024
  • Building a Community Across Borders

    In this episode of the Million Dollar Question Podcast, Billy interviews Vanessa Bergmark, CEO of Red Oak Realty. Since 2010, Vanessa has transformed the company into a leading force in the East Bay real estate market. They discuss the East Bay real estate market, challenges of tight inventory and rising interest rates, and how Vanessa impacts locally and globally, with a focus on development in Africa. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, philanthropy, and global real estate opportunities.

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    45m - May 28, 2024
  • Navigating the HomeBuying Process: Tips From the Best

    In this episode of Million Dollar Question, Jessica delves into the intricacies of the real estate market with Scott, an esteemed real estate agent from Baird and Warner, and his repeat client, Ellen. They explore the challenges and opportunities of homebuying in today's market, offering valuable insights and advice for prospective buyers. From navigating low inventory and multi-bid situations to the importance of finding the right agent, Scott and Ellen share their experiences and expertise, providing listeners with actionable tips for success in the housing market.

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    40m - May 7, 2024
  • Real Estate Advisory as a Differentiator

    In this engaging installment of Million Dollar Question, Billy sits down with Joanna Branquinho, the visionary Founder & CEO of ORIA Real Estate Advisors. Together, they explore the pivotal role of cultivating trust with clients and delivering a comprehensive suite of services, including property management and concierge assistance. They also emphasize the imperative for real estate agents to evolve into trusted advisors, placing a premium on fostering lasting relationships and gaining a profound insight into client needs.

    43m - Apr 11, 2024
  • The Benefits and Pitfalls of Agent Coaching

    In this episode of Million Dollar Question, Billy interviews Kathy Schmidt, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the Edmonton real estate market. Billy and Kathy discuss the significance of mentorship in real estate, the qualities of effective mentors, and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. The discussion also touches on the dynamic nature of the real estate sector, highlighting the need for two-way communication and humility in mentorship relationships.


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    S4E1 - 44m - Mar 18, 2024
  • The Agent of Tomorrow: Data driven, Socially Conscious with Kevin Skipworth

    In this episode of Million Dollar Question, Billy interviews real estate expert Kevin Skipworth, who shares insights on the evolving role of real estate agents and the impact of global trends on local markets. Kevin highlights the resilience of the Vancouver market and stresses the importance of data-driven decisions, sustainability, and personal connections in the industry. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for understanding the dynamic nature of modern real estate.



    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • The evolution of the real estate industry and the role of agents
    • Analyzing the resilience and trends of the Vancouver real estate market
    • The importance of data-driven decision-making in real estate
    • Global influences on local real estate dynamics
    • Balancing technology and personal connections in modern real estate practices



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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S3E4 - 36m - Dec 20, 2023
  • Million Dollar Question - The Trailer

    Want access to the most brilliant leaders in real estate? Well, you’ve landed in the right spot. Join LeadingRE’s Jessica Edgerton and Billy Ekofo for global conversations that will take you to the next level of leadership and success, with answers to the million dollar questions.



    0m - Dec 11, 2023
  • The Fundamentals of a Lasting Brokerage with Christan Bosley

    In this insightful episode of Million Dollar Question, Billy is joined by real estate maven Christan Bosley. Christan shares her unique journey from sales agent to president of a brokerage, highlighting the significance of personal connections and the value of transparency in leadership. She delves into the intricacies of the Toronto real estate market and underscores the importance of viewing real estate as a business venture. This episode offers a blend of Christan's seasoned perspectives on innovation in long-standing companies and key strategies for agents aiming to thrive in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • The evolution and stability of long-standing real estate companies
    • Leadership and human-centric approaches in real estate
    • Common pitfalls and best practices for real estate agents
    • The role of brokerages in agent development and education
    • The dynamics of the Toronto real estate market


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S3E3 - 45m - Nov 17, 2023
  • Futureproofing Your Real Estate Business with Lindsey Smith

    In this episode of Million Dollar Question, Billy welcomes the esteemed Lindsey Smith. Lindsey dives deep into the art of consistent business evaluation, emphasizing the power of the "scorecard." With a wealth of experience under his belt, Lindsey opens up about the essence of timely feedback, the mantra of spending within your means, and the vitality of adapting to ever-shifting market dynamics. Expect to hear the blueprint for businesses aiming for enduring success and profitability.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Present trends in Calgary's real estate market
    • Strategies for adjusting to tech and market shifts
    • The pivotal role of business metrics in gauging business wellness
    • Hurdles for realtors and brokerages in sustaining profits
    • Methods to consistently evaluate a business's trajectory


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S3E2 - 49m - Oct 10, 2023
  • Navigating Realtor Safety: Insights with Shannon Cutler

    Today on the show, Million Dollar Question welcomes new co-host, Billy Ekofo. In this episode, Billy chats with Shannon Cutler, an expert deeply committed to realtor safety. With seasoned experience and hands-on knowledge, Shannon enlightens us about the importance of ensuring safety in the real estate profession. She delves into practical strategies and simple tips for prioritizing while navigating the intricate realm of real estate dealings.



    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • What prompted Shannon’s transition from police officer to realtor
    • Property market dynamics on Vancouver Island
    • Tactics for safe real estate practices
    • Misconceptions around safety in the real estate industry
    • Potential pitfalls of hurrying through deals and how to avoid them



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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S3E1 - 39m - Sep 28, 2023
  • Mastering Markets & Mindset: Insights from Gary Scott

    Today on the show, Jess discusses the multifaceted art of real estate with Gary Scott, the President of Allen Tate Realtors. With over thirty years of expertise spanning critical topics like sales, team building, leadership strategies, and services, Gary's leadership is deeply rooted in his understanding of humanity. In this episode, he unveils the intricacies of gracefully navigating the ever-changing real estate market. Gary explains why his unwavering commitment to fostering genuine connections within the industry—and his own team—has been instrumental in his sustained success.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Tackling the challenge of low supply in H2 2023 
    • Embracing the consultative role amidst the new era of buyer services 
    • Why relationship capital is an agent’s most valuable asset  
    • Breaking free from stuck ruts: Strategies for progress and growth

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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E12 - 33m - Aug 15, 2023
  • Connecting With The Best: Macdonald Realty's New Era in British Columbia with Jonathan Cooper

    Jonathan Cooper is the President of Macdonald Realty Group, the largest independent real estate firm in Western Canada, serving Vancouver, Victoria, Fraser Valley, and beyond. With unwavering motivation and boundless energy, Jonathan's vision for the future is deeply rooted in the belief that the key to real estate success lies in fostering meaningful connections between people. In this episode, we learn why, despite the challenges posed by new technology, modern work culture, and the economy, Jonathan remains steadfast in his commitment to prioritizing the human element at the heart of his endeavors.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Gaining insights into the preferences and motivations of different buyer segments
    • Addressing the evolving perspective on homeownership 
    • The rising demand for trusted advisors in the age of AI
    • Simple strategies to set yourself apart from other agents
    • Unwavering agent support: Macdonald’s symbiotic success model 


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E11 - 32m - Aug 4, 2023
  • Enduring Excellence: The Legacy of Four Generations at Real Estate One with Dan Elsea

    In this episode, Jess engages in a captivating conversation with Dan Elsea, the owner of Michigan’s top independent real estate agency, Real Estate One. Dan and his brother, the co-owner, are the fourth generation in the family-owned business. With three of their kids already a part of the company, their legacy seems firmly assured for the foreseeable future.

    Dan and his team lead the company with the understanding that the best agents in the business are more than just salespeople, they’re true counselors to their clients. Today, Dan shares with us the values, principles and wisdom that have helped Real Estate One maintain success generation after generation.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Discussing Detroit’s revitalization and its impact on the real estate market
    • Addressing the ‘clog’ effect caused by Baby Boomers
    • The importance of counseling clients on optimal buying decisions 
    • How Real Estate One has sustained success through the generations
    • Flexibility, kindness and curiosity: The keys to sustained success  


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E10 - 33m - Jul 20, 2023
  • The BIG Shift in Germany: Where Are Germans Investing Next? with Steffen Landauf

    Today, Taco chats with Steffen Landauf, founder and CEO of the German agency, Steffen Landauf Immobilien. Throughout his colorful career, Steffen has found trust—and a great deal of empathy—to be paramount in the sale of any property. These same attributes have played key roles in his cultivation of broker-buyer relationships and his ability to retain success as the market continues to shift. In this conversation, Steffen tells us about the state of the German economy and addresses the feelings of unrest felt by the country’s buyers and sellers alike. 


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • How the trend of Germans venturing abroad affects brokers and their strategies
    • The rise of renting in big cities 
    • Tips for managing seller expectations
    • What you need to know before opening a franchise
    • Why Steffen has returned to operating independently

    

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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S2E9 - 23m - Jul 6, 2023
  • Will AI Really Be A Game-Changer in Real Estate? with Alex Coté & Dan Foody

    In this episode, Taco sits down with Alex and Dan, the dynamic duo behind customer relationship management company, Cloze. Cloze is like having a personal assistant for your professional connections, allowing you to utilize all of the data you’ve been collecting on your clients—probably without even noticing—to help get a leg up and compete neck and neck with big data companies like Zillow. Join Taco as he engages in an insightful conversation with Alex and Dan, exploring the innovative world of Cloze and uncovering the secrets behind their groundbreaking approach to relationship management.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Back to basics: Why today’s agents actually have to work for their sales 
    • How Cloze empowers agents to leverage AI and automation without sacrificing personal touch
    • Why Chat GPT will not be replacing agents
    • Tips for agents to nurture a strong database
    • Why closing the deal is the beginning of the relationship—not the end 


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S2E8 - 38m - Jun 29, 2023
  • Luxury in LA: What's Hot and What's Next with Michael Nourmand

    Today on the show, Jess chats with Michael Nourmand, President of Nourmand and Associates: a Los Angeles real estate firm rooted in the luxury real estate world of Beverly Hills and beyond. In this episode, we learn about Michael’s childhood experience as a child of two brokers, current techniques for success in a down market and the steps he’s taking to maintain the integrity of the profession. Real estate runs through Michael’s veins, giving him the unmatched passion that’s fueled his ongoing success leading one of the elite luxury real estate firms in a town known for its glamour.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Michael and his family’s star-studded history in the land of LA real estate
    • The instant gratification of brokering vs Michael’s role as president
    • Market sensitivity to shift interest rates
    • The recent success of listings marketed with a “theme”
    • Protecting the spirit of brokerage: Why Michael’s agents don’t sign long-term contracts 


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S2E7 - 32m - Jun 22, 2023
  • Why Portugal? The Latest Legislation and Market Updates with Paulo Lopes

    Today’s guest is Paulo Lopes, the GM and owner of Casaiberia Real Estate Group and LeadingRE’s go-to-person for all things Portuguese. Paulo offers detailed knowledge on the Portuguese real estate market paired with his large network with local developers and investors. In today’s episode, Paulo answers Taco’s questions about why Portugal’s market, physical attributes and legislation make it such an attractive place for real estate investors, and common folk, to call home.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Why Portugal is so desirable for real estate investments
    • What is the Portuguese “golden visa”?
    • The taxation laws that make Portugal a charming spot for new businesses
    • Which countries and demographics invest the most in Portugal
    • Why Paulo wanted to join LeadingRE
    • Visiting Portugal: Where, when and what for


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E6 - 43m - Jun 13, 2023
  • Being Fully Present: A Conversation with Carolyn Rosson

    Today’s guest, Carolyn Rosson, is the President of Ebby Halliday, an established company with a reach spanning 12,000 sq miles across Texas and Oklahoma. In her 40 plus years with the company, Carolyn—mentored by Ebby herself—has risen through ranks to her current position as President, continuing the intentional leadership style that Ebby started 75 years ago. In today’s episode, we learn why Carolyn’s emphasis on service, to her staff and clients alike, has made her such a central figure in the growth trajectory and sustained success of one of the most powerful brokerage companies in the southern United States. 


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • A company led by women: Carolyn’s experience being mentored by Ebby Halliday
    • Keeping cohesion across different brands amidst growth and expansion
    • Embracing that the pandemic has forever changed the ways that brokers work
    • Authenticity & presence: Carolyn’s top tips for success 


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E5 - 28m - Jun 1, 2023
  • Navigating the Cyclical Business: How We Create The Best Real Estate Experiences with Dick Karlsson

    In this episode, Taco chats with Dick Karlsson, the co-founder and head of global sales at Diakrit, a Swedish company leading the global market in visual digital real estate marketing. Despite the current down swing, and the advent of AI on the horizon, Dick remains excited at the possibilities of Diakrit continuing to increase their market share. Today’s conversation is all about how Dick and his team are transforming the understanding of modern real estate through state of the art marketing content and innovative technology. Although Dick’s a strong proponent of increasing the role of tech within the industry, he explains why an emphasis on the customer experience is—and always will be—the thing that helps companies withstand the inevitable peaks and valleys of the real estate business.


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • Traversing the changing markets in the wake of the pandemic 
    • Preparing agents to make the selling experience more impactful and efficient 
    • Why the customer experience remains paramount—and how to stand out
    • The cyclical nature of the real estate business: How to find success in the downswing
    • Why Dick believes AI will only make his business stronger


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions


    S2E4 - 53m - May 26, 2023
  • Thriving Empire: Why the Keyes Company Thrives Through Change with Mike and Christina Pappas

    Today on the show, Jess has the pleasure of talking with two executives from the Keyes Company, a family led, South Florida based real estate company. Mike and his daughter, Christina Pappas, are a lesson in action on how intergenerational governance and family owned companies can get it right. With annual sales and services north of $8.3 billion, making them one of the largest independent brokerage firms in the US, The Keyes Company’s resume speaks for itself. Tune in to hear the charismatic spirit, tried and true philosophy and disciplined approach that has allowed The Keyes and the Pappas family to consistently magnetize and retain the best talent in their region.  


    Today on Million Dollar Question:

    • The Keyes Company’s approach to attracting top tier agents
    • Assisting agents amidst the down market
    • The essence of family style business leadership
    • Making an important distinction between balancing and balance
    • What raising a toddler has taught Christina about herself in the workplace 
    • Why you should surround yourself with people who have different skill sets 


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    This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

    S2E3 - 37m - May 18, 2023
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