Imagine juggling a viral social media moment and the life-changing news of an upcoming bundle of joy. That's exactly where Kaelee finds herself, sharing the ups and downs of pregnancy and the hilarity of keeping such monumental secrets. As the conversation shifts from the joys of impending motherhood to professional triumphs, we're joined by Colby Culbertson, whose journey from Granite Bay High School to a tech-infused real estate career offers inspiration and insight. Colby's story, sparked by a football injury and a nudge from his dad, unfolds with tales of resilience during the 2008 financial crisis and an unexpected leap into the world of Zillow.

Journey with us as Colby reveals the growing pains and exhilarating leaps within the fast-paced world of real estate technology. From his early days tackling skepticism at Zillow to the game-changing role of AI in streamlining processes, Colby's experiences shed light on the evolving landscape of buying and selling homes. We dissect Zillow's strategic movements, such as acquiring Follow Up Boss, and how these decisions aim to empower agents with cutting-edge tools and data-driven insights. The dialogue is peppered with laughter and learning, as we explore the delicate balance of embracing innovation while maintaining personal touches in real estate.

Stepping back from the business grind, we reflect on the art of balancing professional ambitions with personal life. Colby's transition from corporate life to a family-run brokerage is a testament to prioritizing what truly matters. We touch on the importance of community, the colorful dynamics of family business, and the comforting embrace of favorite local haunts. As the episode wraps up with lighthearted reflections and a nod to classic comedy, it leaves listeners eager for more stories of resilience, leadership, and the joy of shared experiences.

Ever wondered what makes the real estate market tick? Buckle up as we explore its latest twists and turns, from unpredictable open houses to the impact of recent rate drops. We also touch on the anxieties surrounding elections and commission structures. Plus, I couldn't resist sharing a proud dad moment — my daughter’s varsity volleyball debut! And don't miss out on insights from our special guest, Mike Swale from Fairway Mortgage, who joins us for an eye-opening conversation about the mortgage industry.

Get ready for a heartfelt recounting of our move from St. Louis to Northern California. We delve into the motivations behind this big life change, the challenges faced, and the stark differences between the Midwest and Northern California, particularly when it comes to natural disasters. As we navigate the competitive Sacramento mortgage market, we share our strategies for effective relationship-building and standing out in a skilled community. Hear about the welcoming nature of this new locale and our journey to establish ourselves quickly and effectively.

We’re not just about real estate; our advocacy work with the Veterans Association for Real Estate Professionals highlights the unique challenges veterans face in the housing market. We discuss the stigmas surrounding VA loans and the efforts to simplify processes and afford better protections. Our conversation also touches on the delicate balance of managing personal and professional identities on social media, and we wrap up with a delightful tale of Indian fusion tacos and lessons from the Great Food Truck Race. This episode is a tapestry of real estate insights, personal stories, and invaluable lessons for both life and business.