The Best of the Best

Hosted by Terese Brittingham

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Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Each week we will seek out the best of the best in every imaginable business and explore the secret to their success. Prepare to gain insights and perspectives that will help you propel your business and personal growth forward. Hear how these leaders started, the stumbling blocks they overcame, and what’s next in their journey.

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18 recent

October 16, 202638 min

Be A Lion with Dean J. Vagnozzi & Terese Brittingham

Three days can change everything. When a court-appointed receiver walks into Dean Vagnosi’s office, his thriving financial services business is shut down without warning. Then his family’s assets are frozen, and he wakes up to a front-page headline that shreds his reputation before he can even explain what’s happening. Dean joins us to share the story behind his book, Be a Lion, Get Up, Pay the Price, and the real-life resilience it took to keep his family steady through a legal and financial nightmare. We talk about what “Be a Lion” actually means when you’re not posting quotes, you’re trying to buy groceries with $80 in your pocket. Dean breaks down the small, gritty steps: cutting expenses immediately, taking whatever work is available, and staying in motion so fear doesn’t take over. He also gets honest about depression, embarrassment, and the difference between feeling exposed and feeling ashamed when you know your integrity is intact. Along the way, we dig into lessons every entrepreneur and business owner needs to hear: trust but verify, do deeper due diligence, and get a second professional opinion when the consequences are huge. We also spend time on the quieter power moves that helped Dean survive like compassion, friends who truly listen, and the support of a spouse who keeps showing up. If you’re rebuilding after a setback, navigating a career storm, or trying to lead your family through uncertainty, hit play and take notes. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a comeback story, and leave us a review with the biggest lesson you’re taking from Dean’s journey.

September 4, 2026Episode 114 min

Mike Ryan speaks about "You Do Not Need Proof To Become Who You Are"

Discipline gets all the credit, but it’s rarely the real problem. I’m joined by licensed therapist Mike Ryan, who specializes in transformation, and we talk about why so many smart, motivated people still feel stuck when the change they want is emotional, relational, physical, or financial. When the goal feels impossible, Mike argues you’re not broken, you’re carrying an identity that makes the next step feel heavier than it needs to be. We dig into visualization and why it’s hard to picture a new future without immediately thinking, “That’s not me.” Mike explains identity-based change: you don’t wait for the scale, the bank account, or the perfect relationship to start living as the person you want to become. We also explore how words and self-talk shape outcomes, from speaking doubt that cancels your vision to choosing language that keeps you in motion, like shifting from “I can’t” to “I haven’t figured it out yet.” From there, we separate willpower from alignment and unpack scarcity mindset vs abundance mindset. Scarcity creates desperation, comparison, and conflict, especially in relationships. Abundance and gratitude change what you notice, the options you consider, and the evidence your brain collects. If you care about personal growth, couples therapy insights, men’s mental health, mindset coaching, and practical tools for lasting behavior change, this conversation is built to help you act differently by thinking differently. Subscribe, share this with a friend who feels stuck, and leave a review with the identity you’re choosing next.

July 6, 202610 min

Young Agents With A Serious Edge DAMIAN BAIRD & MARLENA AGRICOLI with Terese Brittingham

Most people don’t avoid buying a home because they don’t want it. They avoid it because the process feels confusing, high-pressure, and easy to mess up. We talk with Marlena and Damien from the Hammond Homes team about what actually builds trust in real estate: showing up, staying organized, and treating clients like people instead of transactions. We get into why they chose a real estate career in the first place, how a service background can translate into better communication and stronger negotiation, and why being a newer agent can be a real advantage. When you’re hungry, you study pricing strategy, you pay attention to every deadline, and you make sure inspections, contingencies, and next steps don’t slip through the cracks. That kind of focus matters even more as the market changes and the “easy mode” years fade. Then we go practical for renters and first-time homebuyers. We break down the biggest misconception we hear all the time: thinking you need 20% down. We talk FHA options, down payment assistance, grants, and why it’s worth having a quick conversation with a lender to see what’s possible. If you’re staring at rent prices and wondering how they compare to a mortgage, this will help you ask better questions and make smarter moves. If you find this helpful, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s renting, and leave a review so more buyers and sellers can find Real Estate Real Answers.

July 6, 20265 min

From New Agent To Future Investor Kendra Hill and Terese Brittingham

She’s not getting into real estate to “try it out” or chase a trend. Kendra has wanted to be a real estate investor since she was 14, and she’s using her real estate agent career as the most practical shortcut to knowledge, confidence, and deal experience. We talk through what that strategy looks like in real life: learning by listing and selling other people’s properties now so she’s sharper, faster, and more prepared when it’s time to buy her own. We also get honest about what makes clients choose an agent. Kendra’s background in the service industry shapes how she works with people, from first-time homebuyers to sellers who need someone steady and responsive. We connect the dots between customer service, communication, and the real estate process, where your job is to focus on what the consumer needs and help them accomplish it without extra stress. If you’re a new agent, considering a career change, or trying to improve your client experience, you’ll hear practical insight you can apply right away. Kendra shares why she chose Keller Williams, especially the value of mentorship, coaching, and training when you’re newly licensed and feel like you’re “thrown into the ocean.” We also talk about her Army National Guard Reserves service, how discipline helps in a commission-based business, and why Keller Williams Red Day matters as a National Day of Service that builds community and character. You’ll even hear how she’s approaching real estate marketing with video and social media to stay visible and earn trust. If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s thinking about real estate, and leave a review so more people can find Real Estate Real Answers. What’s your long-term goal in real estate right now?

July 6, 202610 min

Real Estate At 18 with CADEN BALLANTINE & Terese Brittingham

One conversation in high school can change your entire career path, and that’s exactly what happened for Caden from the Hammond Homes team. We talk about what it really looks like to start in real estate at 18, why mentorship matters, and how a simple quote “It’s a marathon, not a race” becomes a serious business plan when you stick with it. We also get practical about the work: preparing for a listing appointment, showing up with market knowledge, and leaning on training and team support to compete with agents who have been around longer. If you’re a new real estate agent (or thinking about getting licensed), you’ll hear what helps early momentum and what actually builds trust when sellers are comparing options. Then we zoom out to the bigger money questions for Caden’s generation: renting vs buying, first-time homebuyer strategy, and why home equity and long-term appreciation can be a game-changer even as the market slowly shifts. We wrap with real estate marketing and relationship systems like building a database, consistent follow-up, and why a bricks-and-mortar office can still beat “everything in the cloud” when you want community, coaching, and fast answers. Subscribe for more real estate advice that’s clear and usable, share this with a friend thinking about buying their first place, and leave a review if it helps. What’s one thing you wish someone told you before you rented or bought your first home?

July 6, 20266 min

Grit, Goals, And Real Estate with Lauren Butler & Terese Brittingham

Your home might be worth far more than you think, and the real problem is that most people never get a clear, honest number. We sit down with Lauren Butler to talk about what actually builds trust in residential real estate: simple daily habits, resilience, and a commitment to integrity even when it means having the tough conversation first. Lauren shares how she structures her mornings, sets goals, and stays consistent with fitness because routine fuels performance. That mindset carries directly into her client work, where she treats each transaction like it’s personal. We dig into what sellers and buyers often underestimate, including pricing strategy, market changes, and the countless details that can derail a deal when no one explains the process in plain language. We also get into community-first real estate marketing done the right way. Lauren started Grit And Gray Soul Walking to create accountability, connection, and a space where relationships come before transactions. From walking trails like Kelly Drive to real estate workshops and networking, she focuses on education, transparency, and showing up consistently. If you want a real estate agent who will tell you the truth about your options, your equity, and your next best step, this conversation will feel like a breath of fresh air. If you enjoyed this, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s thinking about buying or selling, and leave a review so more people can find Real Estate Real Answers.

September 10, 2024Episode 1224 min

Navigating Life's Storms: Lessons in Business and Sailing from David Greer

What would you do if a sudden business split sent your life into uncharted waters? Join us for an incredible conversation with David Greer, who turned such a setback into the adventure of a lifetime. Hear how David commissioned a sailboat in the south of France and embarked on a 5,000-mile journey through the Mediterranean, all while homeschooling his children. The episode unpacks the invaluable lessons and skills David imparted to his kids, ultimately strengthening their family bond in ways they never imagined. From an early fascination with business and computers to the unpredictable highs and lows of entrepreneurship, David's story is one of resilience and transformation. But that's not all—we dive into the nuts and bolts of strategic planning for business growth. Learn how to effectively set long-term goals and break them down into actionable steps, inspired by Vern Harnish's scaling-up principles. Hear firsthand how personal resilience and self-care play crucial roles in maintaining momentum, featuring insights from Kevin Lawrence and personal anecdotes about overcoming alcoholism. The episode wraps up with a compelling discussion on the value of coaching, underscoring how external guidance can spark those transformative "aha" moments. Whether you're steering your own ship in business or life, this episode offers a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice.

May 22, 2024Episode 1016 min

SAIID ZAMANI on Transforming Real Estate Dynamics with AI Technology

Unlock the secrets of transforming your real estate career with artificial intelligence as Saiid Zamani, the tech-whisperer from Keller Williams' Devin Wayne office, joins us to discuss the cutting-edge tools reshaping the industry. Prepare to be enlightened by Saeed's journey since 2014, his expertise in AI, and his drive to empower agents with strategies that streamline their business and elevate the client experience. From the power of ChatGPT to the nuances of Cloud AI and Google Gemini, this episode is an essential guide for any agent looking to stand out in today's hyper-competitive market. Plus, Saiid's practical tips on managing time and overcoming tech intimidation will give you the confidence to harness AI like a pro. This episode isn't just a conversation—it's a masterclass in leveraging AI to redefine real estate marketing. Discover how tools like RPR and Bright MLS can turn a mere 20-30 minutes of your day into a goldmine of client insights that outshine commonplace resources like Zillow and Redfin. We tackle the shift from habitual tech use to intentional, growth-driven adoption, ensuring you're not just keeping up but setting the pace in the industry. And if you're hungry to delve deeper into the world of real estate or yearning to demystify AI, Saiid Zamani's wisdom is just a query away. Join us for this transformative exploration into the future of real estate, where artificial intelligence meets human ambition.

May 22, 2024Episode 1119 min

A Taste of Ambition and Almonds at Sweet Ashley's with Rob Lawson

Who knew a mishap in the kitchen could lead to a chocolatey revolution? Rob Lawson, co-founder of Sweet Ashley's Chocolatier, joins us to recount the luscious tale of transforming an accident into the legend that is Schuylkill Mud—a toffee, peanut butter, pretzel, and potato chip sensation. With nearly two decades of crafting confections, Rob and his wife Connie have not just made chocolates; they've woven their family's heart and soul into a business that celebrates their daughter's namesake. This episode is a testament to the endurance of a dream sparked in Connie's Girl Scout days and nurtured through every obstacle, including the stormy seas of a pandemic. Rob gives us an inside look at their triumphs, the creativity that fuels their shop, and the importance of balancing business with family values, like closing doors on a bustling day to attend their child's graduation. Step behind the counter of local charm where the aroma of cocoa mingles with the laughter of customers, and every almond is a spicy surprise waiting to tickle your palate. This episode is a cozy chat about the importance of an in-store experience that internet shopping can't replicate and the thoughtful attention that goes into every personalized package of chocolates—perfect for all gift-giving occasions. We even uncover a health secret: dark chocolate might just be your next cough suppressant! So, if your sweet tooth is calling, or you're moved by stories of small businesses with big hearts, you'll want to savor every moment of our conversation with Rob Lawson and perhaps get inspired to place an order for their all-time favorite, chocolate-covered strawberries—just be sure to call ahead!

May 22, 2024Episode 914 min

Fostering Genuine Relationships Beyond the Sale with Kim Chadwick

As I sat down with Kim Chadwick, a realtor whose expertise eclipses the typical sell-and-buy routine, I was struck by her unwavering dedication to the human element of our industry. Her stories of standing beside clients through life's seismic shifts—be it the joy of newlyweds or the trials of downsizing after a loss—highlight what makes her a beacon in the real estate world. Today, we explore that intersection of heartfelt empathy and savvy business strategy, where Kim's masterclass in relationship-building transcends the transactional and touches lives deeply. Kim's wisdom flows through our conversation like a guiding light for those navigating the tumultuous seas of real estate. She illustrates how a positive outlook can be the compass that steers us toward success, even when the market seems unforgiving. Amid sharing personal anecdotes that etch the image of clients-turned-family, we dissect the strategies that can transform a challenging market into a vibrant landscape of opportunity and connection. So, join us for an episode that's a testament to the enduring power of authentic relationships and the resilience that can flourish from a foundation built on genuine care and a positive mindset.

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