Coffee & Closings

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Devin Curlings to talk about her journey from making just $12,000 in her first year in real estate to building a thriving business. Devin shares how taking risks, betting on herself, and joining the right team completely changed the trajectory of her career.They dive into the realities of starting in new construction, overcoming self-doubt as a young agent, and the power of mentorship and team environments. Devin also breaks down her approach to social media, building authentic relationships, and why being a connector in your community can take your business to the next level. The conversation also touches on motherhood, work-life balance, and staying present while building a thriving career. Coffee Highlight: 321 Coffee – Elevate Blend 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Neda Navab, President of Compass, for a powerful conversation on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of real estate. Neda shares her inspiring story, from being raised by an immigrant mother who built a real estate career from the ground up, to becoming one of the most respected leaders in the industry.They dive into what truly makes a great agent great, why hard work still wins, how Compass plans to stay focused on agents as it grows, and the massive role AI and technology will play in shaping the next generation of real estate professionals. Neda also opens up about parenting, staying present with family, personal growth, and the legacy she hopes to leave through leadership and energy. Coffee Highlight: Counter Culture Coffee – Apollo Blend (Ethiopia)

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Danielle Hurst to talk about her journey from PR and hospitality into real estate, and what her first year in the business has really looked like. Danielle shares how she built early momentum, leaned into her sphere, and learned what actually works, from open houses to social media and networking.The conversation dives into team culture, consistency, mindset, and grit, along with balancing marriage, friendships, and building a career at the same time. Danielle also opens up about expectations vs. reality in year one and why playing the long game is key in real estate. Coffee Highlight: Lucky Tree Coffee – Honduras Single Origin

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Alley Buscemi to talk about her journey from New York City—working in fashion, production, and corporate sales—to building a fast-growing real estate business in Raleigh. Alley shares how she went from knowing no one in the area to scaling her business toward $40M+ in volume, all through personal branding, social media, and intentional relationship building.They dive deep into what it really takes to succeed in real estate, including the importance of personality and internal drive, how to leverage social media the right way, and the strategy behind building a referral network across the country. Alley also breaks down her approach to branding, team building, and why doing an excellent job for fewer clients beats doing an average job for more.Coffee Highlight: Five Star Coffee Roasters – Los Andes (Peru) Medium Roast 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Lisa Quin, Broker-in-Charge at Compass Cary, to talk about her journey from hotel management to building a long, successful career in real estate. Lisa shares how she sold 50 homes in her first year, navigated market downturns like the 2008 crash, and built a business centered around relationships, consistency, and strong ethics.The conversation dives into what truly makes a great agent, the importance of systems and client follow-up, and how to build a business that lasts for decades—not just a few good years. Lisa also shares insights on leadership, being a Broker-in-Charge, and why real estate should fund your life—not consume it.Coffee Highlight: Southport Coffee Company – Small Batch Blend  

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Mike Rice to talk about a lifetime spent around real estate. Mike shares how growing up in a real estate family eventually led him into the business, his early days in mortgages, and what it was like navigating the 2008 housing crash. The conversation dives into the realities of the industry, from starting and running a mortgage company to transitioning into real estate auctions during the foreclosure crisis. Mike also shares stories from teaching high school, coaching tennis, and ultimately finding his way back into real estate in North Carolina. Along the way, Ethan and Mike talk about fatherhood, business lessons, flipping houses, and building something that can impact future generations.Coffee Highlight: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee – Muraho Morning

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Ryan McKinstrie to talk about his journey into real estate and what it takes to grow in the business. The conversation dives into building strong relationships with clients, navigating the ups and downs of the market, and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters. They also talk about fatherhood, the importance of family, and their shared love of golf, along with the balance of life, business, and personal growth.Coffee Highlight: North Pole Coffee Roasting Company – Fairbanks Choice ☕

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jade Gluckin to talk about getting licensed at 20 years old, failing forward, and building a real estate career as a young single mom. Jade shares the mindset shifts that helped her succeed as an independent agent, why authenticity attracts the right clients, and how she’s balancing business, marriage, and a blended family. They also dive into parenting in the age of social media, affirmations for kids, and what it really takes to build something meaningful both at home and in business Coffee Highlight: Bean Traders – Breakfast Blend ☕

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jon Currin, founder of Currin Outdoor Living, to talk about the journey from landscape architecture student to building a thriving design-build company rooted in faith, family, and purpose. Jon shares how mentorship, perseverance, and trusting God shaped both his business and his leadership, along with lessons on team building, navigating hard seasons, and creating outdoor spaces that foster real relationships. The conversation dives into entrepreneurship, fatherhood, stewardship, and the deeper meaning behind success—both in business and in life.Coffee Highlight: Cultivate Coffee – Colombia Roast

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jacob De Leon to talk about his journey from manual-labor jobs and CrossFit coaching to generating real estate clients within weeks of getting licensed. Jacob shares how community, discipline, and consistent action helped him build early momentum, along with lessons on social media, realistic transaction goals, and serving people well for long-term success. The conversation blends fitness, mindset, business growth, and the daily work it takes to win in real estate, all while enjoying the Porch Light Coffee – Columbia Blend

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Alejandra Cedeno, a new construction sales agent with D.R. Horton, to talk about finding your lane in real estate and playing the long game. Alejandra shares her journey from Rutgers University and moving south from New Jersey, working in traditional brokerage and as a real estate legal assistant, to ultimately finding her stride in new construction. They dive deep into what new construction is really like day-to-day, the pros and cons compared to general brokerage, commission structures, long hours, and career growth opportunities within large builders. The conversation also touches on rental investing, house hacking, CrossFit, family roots from Ecuador, and staying grounded while building a future in real estate—all while reviewing Chamberlain Coffee’s Social Dog Medium Roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Daniel Gluckin, founder of the Gluckin Group, to talk about building a real estate brand by being yourself. Daniel shares his journey from DJ to REALTOR®, how “The Running Realtor” helped him stand out on social media, and why consistency and creativity matter more than perfection. They dive deep into content creation, team leadership, mistakes he made—and fixed—while building his team, and what it really takes to grow without losing your identity. The conversation also hits on fatherhood, work-life balance, and running your business instead of letting it run you—all while reviewing Black Rifle Coffee Company’s Spirit of 76 Medium Blend.

In this solo episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan Lines sits down with the mic to reflect on why the podcast started, what it’s become, and where it’s headed next. He shares his personal journey in real estate, lessons learned from 24 incredible guests, and why relationships—not transactions—are the foundation of a great business and a meaningful life. Ethan opens up about fatherhood, faith, goals for the year ahead, building community, and what it really means to be an exceptional agent, husband, and dad. The episode wraps with a candid coffee review of Kirkland House Blend and a call for listeners to help shape the future of the Coffee & Closings community.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Mike and Shelly, the husband-and-wife founders of Peak City Coffee, to hear the story behind one of the Triangle’s most beloved specialty roasters. They share how a backyard hobby turned into a full-scale roasting business, the leap of faith to go all-in, and why sourcing specialty-grade beans and telling a story through coffee matters. The conversation dives deep into the roasting process, seasonal blends, entrepreneurship, family involvement, and building a brand rooted in community—all while tasting Peak City favorites like Full Steam, Whispering Pines, and Snow Camp.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Sharon Gupton, longtime REALTOR® and current President of the Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®. Sharon shares her decades-long journey through real estate, property management, sports marketing, and leadership, along with why communication, education, and ethics are what truly separate great agents from average ones. They dive deep into parenting and career balance, continuing education, the role of REALTOR® associations, and how to lead—and step away from leadership—with grace. All while enjoying Jubala Coffee’s Kinship Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Ryan Patty, a Raleigh-area REALTOR® who brings an incredible journey from the Pittsburgh Steelers sideline to the world of real estate. Ryan shares how his background in sports, recruiting, and operations shaped his discipline, mindset, and ability to build strong client relationships. The two dive into what makes a great agent great—availability, adaptability, negotiation skills, communication, and the drive to show up even when it’s inconvenient. They talk football, family traditions, competitiveness, market shifts, and growing a business through authenticity and consistency. All while reviewing Top of the Mornin Coffee’s Twilight Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Cory Sherman, a Durham-area REALTOR® with Keller Williams, to dive into the skills that truly matter in today’s market. Cory shares his journey from the beer and wine industry into real estate, closing over $75 million as a solo agent, and developing a powerful negotiation framework in partnership with leadership coach Dr. Sam Bear. They unpack why negotiations are more important than ever, how agents can handle conflict with confidence, the future of the industry, building a lean but mighty team, and how AI is transforming the way agents work. They also talk fatherhood, entrepreneurship, reinvention, and the honest highs and lows of being a full-time agent—all while enjoying Carolina Coffee Company’s Carolina Christmas Blend.

In this special episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with his wife, Allyson Lines, for a fun and heartfelt conversation about marriage, parenting, and their journey together. The two share stories from their teenage years, what it’s really like raising their daughter Amelia, and how they’ve built a home and a life side by side. They talk nursing, real estate, and late-night renovations, all while reflecting on faith, family, and the chaos that makes it all worth it. And of course, they highlight Caribou Coffee’s Caribou Blend, a nostalgic nod to their early dating days.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Liza Seymour, a Raleigh-based REALTOR® with Compass, to talk about her journey from fashion merchandising to building a thriving real-estate career. Liza opens up about taking a leap of faith into real estate during the pandemic, learning the business from the ground up, and finding balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship. They dive into leadership, mentorship, and her mission to educate first-time buyers through her How to Buy a House program—all while enjoying Because Coffee Roasters’ Big Reward Blend from Dawsonville, Georgia.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Autumn Dubois, team leader and REALTOR® with Compass in Raleigh, to talk about building a business rooted in connection, culture, and purpose. Autumn shares her journey from starting in real estate to leading a thriving team while staying grounded as a wife and mom. The two dive deep into leadership, building strong team culture, property management, social media growth, and what it takes to stand out in today’s competitive market, all while enjoying Charleston Coffee Roasters’ Organic Sumatra Bold Roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jon Tennant, a Raleigh-area REALTOR® with The Jim Allen Group, to talk about building a real estate career through creativity, consistency, and community. Jon shares how he built his YouTube channel “Living in Raleigh Durham,” the lessons learned from joining the #1 Coldwell Banker team in the country, and his entrepreneurial mindset for creating multiple streams of income. The two dive deep into fatherhood, personal growth, and doing hard things—from real estate to half marathons—all while enjoying Porch Culture Coffee Roasters’ Happy Medium Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Doug Yopp, owner of The Oceanaire Realty. Doug shares the story of his family’s real estate legacy which was founded by his grandfather in 1979 and brought back to life when Doug reopened the company in 2017. They discuss the highs and lows of owning a brokerage, the challenges of leadership, and what truly makes a great agent stand out. Doug also talks about mentoring his team, balancing business and family, and the lessons learned along the way. All while enjoying Smooth Joe Coffee’s Smooth Joe Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Alex Pollard, VP of Mortgage Lending at OriginPoint. They talk about the real side of the lending business and how relationships matter more than rates, and what it takes to build trust in today’s market. Alex opens up about fatherhood, discipline, and finding balance through fitness and family, while they dig into what’s really happening with lending, leadership, and life. All while enjoying Raleigh Coffee Company’s Tidal Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Benjamin Passwaters to talk about fatherhood, college sports, and the lessons that translate from life to business. We dive into how he’s built a successful real estate career through neighborhood farming and becoming the go-to agent in his community. Benjamin shares how consistency, connection, and mindset have shaped his success, both as a dad and as an agent. All while enjoying Crema Coffee Roasters’ Crema Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jenny Hensley to talk about what it really takes to become a luxury agent and stay ahead of today’s market trends. Jenny shares her insights on being the best REALTOR® you can be, building and leading a team, and creating a business that lasts. We dive into the mindset and habits that separate top agents from the rest, and how to adapt when the market shifts. All while enjoying Oak City Coffee Roasters’ Kilimanjaro Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Kevin Starkey, candidate for Secretary/Treasurer of RRAR and co-founder of Sold By Starkey. We talk about his passion for serving the REALTOR® community and why having a strong voice at RRAR matters. Kevin also shares his journey of building a thriving business with his wife, the importance of family, and what drives his success. Along the way, we dive into leadership, real estate, and the balance of life and career, all while we enjoy Bean Traders’ Brazil Blend out of Durham, NC, 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Ryan Darge, SVP of Mortgage Lending and Producing Sales Manager with OriginPoint. We dig into what today’s interest rates really mean for buyers and investors, how the housing market could shape up by 2026, and what it takes to thrive as a lender. Ryan also shares his philosophy on “earning your Fridays” through hard work, plus some talk on cigars, bourbon, and life outside the office. All while enjoying Buddy Brew Coffee’s Black Lab blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Jason Kogok, founder of Investor’s Wealth Education and author of Plug the Holes, Fill the Barrel. We talk about how Jason got his start in real estate, his teaching journey at NC State and Wake Tech, and his deep dive into investing strategies that build lasting wealth. Jason also opens up about the process of writing his book, balancing life as a father, and the hobbies that keep him grounded outside of work. And of course, we fuel the conversation with a cup of Peak City Coffee’s Highland Blend. 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Angie Thomas of Grow Local Realty. Angie shares her journey into real estate, how she quickly became a top-producing agent, and why she thrives as a solo agent rather than building a team. We talk about the realities of flipping houses, balancing business with fitness, and the unique mindset that drives her success.We also dive into our favorite coffees and spotlight this week’s brew: Counter Culture’s “Forty-Six”

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Davante Falls, Senior Marketing Advisor for Compass in the Triangle. Davante shares how he got his start in marketing, the strategies agents can use to elevate their business, and how discipline in exercise and diet has played a role in his personal and professional journey. We also dive into his inspiring fight with Multiple Sclerosis, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how perseverance shapes success.Of course, we highlight our featured coffee of the week: Full Bloom Coffee’s “Busy Bee” Breakfast Blend

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Megan Beekman dives into the story behind Red Bench Realty and its many branches. We cover the entrepreneurial grind — from Airbnbs and flips to what it really means to be a great REALTOR®. Megan shares insights on personal branding, picking the right business name, and the power of social media. We also chat about workouts, caffeine, and building a lifestyle that fuels your business. Featured brew: Black & White Coffee – The Classic.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Brandon Yopp to explore his journey into real estate and what it really takes to stand out as a listing agent. They dive into the power of relationships, intentional client care, and building a business that supports, not controls, your lifestyle. Along the way, they chat hobbies, bourbons, and the importance of staying authentic in the industry. Featured brew of the day: Larry’s Coffee - Cowboy Blend.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Steve Gunter of The Gunter Group at Compass. We dive into his journey from serving as a police officer to becoming a full-time real estate professional, his experience playing cornerback at Indiana University, and how those lessons shaped his mindset in life and business. Steve shares his insights on building meaningful relationships, navigating some of North Carolina's biggest land acquisitions, and his unique role in Compass’ Sports & Entertainment division. Plus, we highlight Sir Walter Coffee and their Downtown Single roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Brandy Nemergut to talk about her journey from starting in real estate in California to building a thriving business from scratch here in North Carolina. Brandy shares how she leveraged conversations and genuine relationship-building to grow her network, how to confidently use social media as a REALTOR®, and why dialing in your CRM (and using AI effectively) can be a game-changer for your business.This week, we’re highlighting The Porchlight Medium Roast from the Classic Collection by Pure Intentions Coffee Roasters out of Charlotte, NC.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, I sit down with Kailey Norman, Sales Manager of the Southeast Regional Leadership Team at Compass. We dive into market insights, why knowledge is power for every agent, and what new agents should be doing right now to set themselves up for success. Kailey also shares what it’s really like to take on a leadership role in a real estate office, offering perspective on growth, mentorship, and team building. Plus, we spotlight 5 Star Coffee Roasters in Holly Springs, NC, and their standout Chayote roast.

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with powerhouse broker Liz Brown to unpack her wild journey from real estate rookie to team leader, independent brokerage owner, and now Compass Principal with a big brand. They talk entrepreneurship, client relationship, building something from scratch, and balancing it all with parenthood. Liz shares the highs, the hustle, and what it really takes to be a standout agent in today’s market. Plus, they sip on some bold brews from Counter Culture while keeping it real about what the grind actually looks like. 

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Davis Holt shares how early failures fueled his rise as a successful real estate entrepreneur. We dive into the power of persistence, the mindset behind building a business, and how he balances being a present father with the hustle of real estate. Plus, we kick things off with a pour-over from Cultivate Coffee, featuring their Better Together roast — a perfect reminder that success is rarely a solo journey.