AI Engine Optimization and the Future of Lead Generation with Michael Perna Ep 307

In this episode of the Lab Coat Agents podcast, Tristan Ahumada and Nick Baldwin interview Michael Perna, a top-producing team leader who’s been navigating real estate since 2001, on what’s changing fastest right now—and what agents must do to stay visible. The conversation focuses on the rise of AI-driven search and AEO (AI Engine Optimization) and how it’s reshaping lead generation. Perna explains why most agents are essentially invisible to these new discovery systems, and how AI recommendations can deliver higher-trust, higher-conversion leads that outperform traditional lead sources. Michael shares his own evolution—from door-knocking and cold-calling to building a modern “moat” through hyper-local content, social media omnipresence, and consistent authority-building. The takeaway is clear: agents can’t rely on buying leads forever. To win in the next cycle, they need to produce high-quality video and written content, pair it with automated follow-up, and use authentic storytelling to stay relevant and scale. Connect with Michael Perna: Join Michael: https://getrecommendedbyai.paperform.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepernateam/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.perna.35/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepernateam/