Elite 25 Luxury Real Estate

World traveler turned Elite25 agent. In this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, Karen Kelly of Van Heuven Properties shares how she went from a global search for an epiphany to over two decades as a leader in Austin luxury real estate.Karen breaks down her early career pivot after losing a business patent, how she cut her teeth during the original Downtown Austin condo boom, and why she has spent her entire 21-year career with the same firm. She also discusses the power of off-market networking and why the Lake Austin lifestyle remains unmatchable.If you want an inside look at what it takes to break into the top 1% of Austin real estate, this conversation is packed with stories, lessons, and real-world insight from a true market connector.Watch the full episode to hear:* How Karen "stumbled" into real estate while helping a friend find a house.* The secret behind her off-market success—why 85% of her $2M+ deals last year never hit the MLS.* How she manages a high-volume career with the help of her husband and team.* What a famous athlete's request to change a street address taught her about the business.Subscribe to the Elite 25 Podcast for more interviews with Austin’s top agents and luxury market leaders.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Former school teacher turned top producer. In this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, Leslie Davenport of Gottesman Residential shares how she went from the classrooms of Hill Country Middle School to nearly three decades in Austin real estate.Leslie breaks down her early career pivot, how she balanced teaching with her first real estate deals, and the mentors who shaped her along the way. She also talks about the power of consistency, community, and why Austin has kept her rooted since her UT days.If you want an inside look at what it takes to break into the top 1% of Austin real estate, this conversation is packed with stories, lessons, and real-world insight.Watch the full episode to hear• How Leslie transitioned from teaching to real estate• The key mentors who guided her early career• Why relationships (even from her teaching days) still drive her business today• What it takes to build longevity in the hottest market in AmericaSubscribe to the Elite 25 Podcast for more interviews with Austin’s top agents and luxury market leaders.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Real Estate, Resilience, and a Lifelong Love for Austin HomesIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Kristi Larkam, a born-and-raised Austin agent whose passion for real estate began when she was just ten years old — circling open houses in the weekend newspaper and convincing her parents to take her to every listing.Kristi shares how early encouragement from her dad, a family tragedy that reshaped her path, and her commitment to being fully present for her children all led her into a career she never expected to love this deeply. She walks us through her journey from Coldwell Banker to Compass, the mentors who shaped her, and how growing up in Austin gives her unique insight into a rapidly evolving luxury market.Kristi opens up about purpose, consistency, and the privilege of helping families find their place in a city she’s called home her whole [email protected]

Condos, Development, and Austin’s Changing SkylineIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Yates of Moreland Properties, an Austin real estate veteran with more than 20 years of experience and a rare path into the luxury market. Jessica shares how starting in the development world — from condo conversions to major high-rise projects like the W Residences, Proper, Rainey, and Fifth & West — shaped the way she understands inventory, demand, and the future of Austin’s vertical living.Jessica walks us through her early days in development, how auctions and absorption cycles shaped her instincts, and the evolution of downtown Austin from $450 per square foot to record-breaking luxury sales. She dives into the current condo landscape, why the perception of “too much building” doesn’t match the reality of limited supply, and what buyers need to understand about the next five years of the [email protected]

Drive, Discipline, and the Mindset Behind Long-Term SuccessIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Scott Michaels, a six-year Elite 25 member whose career has been defined by resilience, consistency, and an unshakeable work ethic. Scott talks about how he wakes up every day with something to prove to himself — and how that internal drive has fueled 22 years in Austin real estate.Scott shares why he thrives when someone tells him he “can’t,” how that competitive edge shapes his business, and the lessons he’s learned about balancing ambition with family in an industry that never stops moving. He opens up about the pressures of a 24/7 career, the importance of staying grounded, and why passion is the key to longevity in Austin’s luxury [email protected]

Real Estate, Family, and Austin’s Luxury MarketIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Bridgette Hager of Engel & Völkers in Westlake, a seasoned Austin luxury real estate agent with over 30 years of experience. Bridgette shares how her background managing Barton Creek developments and navigating life as a professional athlete’s spouse shaped her approach to helping clients with high-stakes relocations and property decisions.Bridgette walks us through her path into real estate, from title work to building a referral-based business, and the lessons learned from experience, consistency, and truly understanding her clients’ needs. She shares her insights on Austin’s luxury market, how she blends psychology, design, and attention to detail into her work, and what it takes to make long-term success in an ever-changing [email protected]

Stoicism, Strategy, and Navigating Austin’s Luxury MarketIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Ware, a seasoned Austin luxury real estate agent whose career is shaped by discipline, resilience, and thoughtful strategy. Andrew shares how his background in law and fine jewelry sales prepared him for high-stakes negotiations, and why the Stoic philosophy “the obstacle is the way” guides how he approaches challenges in business and life.Andrew walks us through his unexpected path into real estate, the lessons learned from career pivots and adversity, and how patience and preparation define success in today’s evolving luxury market. From insights on Westlake and Central Austin to what buyers and sellers need to understand about longer timelines and better value, this conversation offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective from one of Austin’s most trusted [email protected]

Building a Legacy With Family — Beth DrewettIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Beth Drewett, a leader who has built not only an impressive real estate business but a true family legacy. Beth shares what it’s like to work side-by-side with her four sons and her husband, how their different strengths come together to serve clients at the highest level, and why family values are the foundation of their success. She talks about trust, communication, and the unique energy that comes from building something meaningful as a team — both at home and in the [email protected]

Lake Life Luxury with Tammie BennettIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Tammie Bennett, a leader in luxury lakefront real estate. Tammie shares how Austin’s proximity makes it the perfect feeder market for second homes and what makes lake life so irresistible to her clients. She opens up about the balance of professionalism and personal touch required in resort markets — from managing client expectations to negotiating one-of-a-kind deals (including a memorable one involving a donkey and three goats). Whether you’re in the business or simply love Austin’s extended lake culture, Tammie’s insights reveal why the best homes are often found off the beaten path.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Exploring Austin’s Heart with Joanie CapalupoIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Joanie Capalupo of Compass Real Estate, a seasoned Austin expert with more than two decades of experience and deep roots in the Westlake community. Joanie shares how her personalized “Chamber of Commerce” tours give clients an authentic feel for Austin — from local lifestyle tips to hidden neighborhood gems. She talks about the value of connection, consistency, and why showing clients what makes Austin special has been the key to her long-term success.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Building Trust Through Connection – Laura GottesmanIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Laura Gottesman of Gottesman Residential, a powerhouse in Austin real estate known for her deep community ties and hands-on leadership. Laura shares her perspective on what makes Austin’s market so unique, from the city’s subtle luxury to the strength of relationships that drive it. She talks about the art of networking, how authenticity builds trust, and why the most meaningful business often happens outside the office.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com⁠

Designing a Career with Intention – Brooke MozerskyIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Brooke Mozersky, an Austin realtor who carved a second career after nearly two decades in the fast-paced world of film and television. Brooke shares how her background in wardrobe and styling sharpened her eye for detail and taught her to thrive under pressure—skills that translated seamlessly into real estate. She talks about the challenges of starting fresh in her late thirties, the determination it took to hit big goals early, and the confidence she’s built navigating Austin’s competitive luxury market. At its core, Brooke’s story is about resilience, reinvention, and staying hungry no matter what stage of life you’re in.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Building Legacy Through Relationships – Nicole KesslerIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Nicole Kessler of Compass, a powerhouse in Austin luxury real estate with decades of experience and deep community roots. Nicole shares how she built her career on trust, relationships, and consistency—values that have carried her through market shifts and positioned her as one of Austin’s most respected agents. From her early beginnings to becoming a leader in the industry, Nicole opens up about the lessons learned, the importance of mentorship, and how staying grounded has shaped both her career and her life.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

Shaped by Community – Leah PetriIn this episode of Elite 25, Leah Petri opens up about growing up in Austin and how those early roots shaped her career in real estate. She shares how mentorship and leaning on others helped her through the difficult early years, why she believes community and relationships are everything, and how intentional gatherings and diverse perspectives fuel her growth. @elite25austinwww.elite25austin.com

Leading with Vision – Dave MurrayIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Dave Murray, one of Austin’s most trusted voices in real estate. Dave reflects on starting out in the business with nothing but grit and determination, and how years of consistency built the foundation for his success. He talks about the value of long-term relationships, the importance of staying true to your vision, and the lessons he’s learned navigating Austin’s competitive market. At its heart, this is a story about resilience, relationships, and creating a career that [email protected]

With over 30 years of experience and $4 billion in total sales, Eric Moreland is Austin’s trusted name in luxury real estate. Averaging $450 million annually over the last five years, EMgroup has been the Lake Austin Sales Leader since 2003, the Downtown Austin Sales Leader agent since 2010, and a consecutive member of Elite25 since 2001.Eric offers unmatched insight and access through a custom-built database spanning 30 years of private market history—the most robust in Austin. With decades of proven success, he stands as Lake Austin’s foremost expert. His legacy is rooted in relationships, discretion, and a deep commitment to protecting the value of Austin’s most exclusive real estate, including Lake Austin, Westlake, and Downtown.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com⁠

Rooted in Austin Real Estate – Greg WallingIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Greg Walling, whose deep Austin roots and commitment to community have shaped his remarkable career in real estate. Greg shares stories from his journey, the strategies that help him navigate a changing market, and the relationships that keep his work meaningful. This conversation offers valuable perspective for anyone looking to build both success and connection in the real estate world.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com⁠

Blending Ambition with Authenticity – Monica FabbioIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Monica Fabbio, a standout in luxury real estate known for building her business on strong relationships and unwavering resilience. Monica opens up about her journey in the industry, sharing valuable lessons learned along the way and the mindset that has fueled her success. This conversation is full of insights for anyone striving to thrive in a competitive market.@elite25austin ⁠⁠www.elite25austin.com⁠

Setting the Standard – Wade GilesIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Wade Giles of Compass, a top-producing Austin agent who made Elite 25 by his third year in the business. After relocating from the New York area, Wade quickly set his sights on the highest level of real estate in Austin—and never looked back.Wade shares how his early impressions of Elite 25 shaped his goals, what it takes to stand out in a competitive market, and why strategy and authenticity matter more than ever in luxury real estate.We also talk about navigating client expectations, evolving with the market, and building a long-term brand rooted in trust, consistency, and [email protected]

Off the Record, On the Market – Bridget RameyIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Bridget Ramey of Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty, a powerhouse agent known for closing deals you’ll never find on Zillow. Bridget unpacks what it means to work in a non-disclosure state like Texas, where the biggest luxury sales often stay private—and why that matters to high-end clients.With years of experience navigating Austin’s elite market, she shares what sets this city apart, from tax incentives and political freedom to access to water and land. We talk about the timing of election cycles, the return of big buyers in 2025, and how relationships—not listings—drive results at the top of the market.Whether you’re buying, selling, or just fascinated by what happens behind the scenes in luxury real estate, Bridget’s perspective is a must-hear.@elite25austin⁠www.elite25austin.com

From Case Work to Closing Deals – Anna LeeIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Anna Lee of Moreland Properties, who made an unexpected leap from social work to luxury real estate—and never looked back. With 15 years in the business and over a decade as a member of Elite 25, Anna shares how her background as a case worker and her eye for detail helped shape a service-first approach that sets her apart.We talk about breaking stereotypes in real estate, building trust with clients, and how following her husband’s suggestion on a summer beach trip turned into a top-producing career. Whether you’re new to real estate or a seasoned pro, Anna’s story is a reminder that the right path isn’t always the most obvious [email protected]

Inside Austin Luxury: Will Steakley’s Real Estate PlaybookIn this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with Will Steakley of DEN Property Group—an Austin real estate powerhouse known for navigating high-profile deals and curating experiences for top-tier clients.Will shares how he broke into the luxury space, how handling a professional athlete’s multi-year real estate journey taught him about discretion and trust, and what makes the Austin market unlike any other. From celebrity transactions to strategic investments, Will opens up about how real relationships fuel long-term success in this ever-evolving city.Whether you're a buyer, a seller, or someone looking to break into luxury real estate, this episode offers real insight from one of Austin’s best.elite25austin.com@elite25austin

Kevin Burns on Austin’s Growth and the Real Value in LuxuryIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Kevin Burns, founder of Urbanspace and a cornerstone of Austin’s luxury real estate scene for nearly three decades. Kevin shares how his passion for architecture, design, and urban development led him to start his firm and how that same passion continues to drive his work today.He breaks down what makes Austin’s high-end market so unique, why luxury real estate here is still a value compared to markets like Miami and Los Angeles, and how the definition of “Urban Austin” has radically changed over the years.From helping launch some of the city’s most notable high-rises to mentoring the next generation of top producers, this episode is full of insight on what it takes to shape a city and stay at the top.📍 www.elite25austin.com@elite25austin

From Finance to Fine Homes – Darin WalkerIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Darin Walker of Moreland Properties, a top-producing agent with deep roots in Austin and a background in finance. After spending 20 years in the investment and securities industry, Darin shifted his focus to real estate and quickly became one of the city’s leading agents.He shares how his financial acumen and long-standing relationships in Austin give him a unique advantage when serving high-net-worth clients. From navigating complex transactions to helping families plug into the Austin lifestyle, Darin offers concierge-level service that goes far beyond the transaction.Tune in for a conversation about trust, professionalism, and what it takes to excel in Austin’s luxury market.Subscribe to Elite 25 for more insight from Austin’s top agents.www.elite25austin.com@elite25austin

From First-Time Buyer to Austin’s Elite – Wende ParksIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Wende Parks, a top-producing real estate agent and proud member of Austin’s exclusive Elite 25. With over 21 years in the industry, Wende shares how an unexpected first home purchase turned into a lifelong career at the top of Austin's competitive luxury market.Originally licensed with plans to invest, Wende quickly discovered that real estate is far more about communication and relationships than contracts and commissions. Her early lessons in what not to do laid the foundation for a thriving career built on trust, persistence, and staying human in a high-stakes world.She opens up about what it means to build a reputation that lasts, why communication is her greatest asset, and how she’s adapted through every market cycle—while still owning the very home that started it all.This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about longevity in real estate, finding your niche, and building a career on purpose.Be sure to subscribe to get notified for future Elite 25 episodes!www.elite25austin.com@elite25austin

From Professional Tennis to Elite Real Estate – Trey PhillipsIn this episode of Elite 25, we sit down with Trey Phillips, a top-producing agent with the Eric Moreland Group at Moreland Properties in Austin, Texas. Born and raised in Austin, Trey shares how his roots in the city—and a former life as a professional tennis player—shaped his path to becoming one of the most respected names in luxury real estate.After playing Division I tennis at the University of Texas and spending five years on the pro circuit, Trey transitioned into real estate with the same discipline and drive that fueled his athletic career. He opens up about the mindset shifts required to succeed at the highest level, how he builds trust with ultra-high-net-worth clients, and the nuances of navigating Austin’s dynamic market.This conversation is packed with insights for anyone interested in elite performance, personal reinvention, and what it really takes to operate at the top of the real estate game.Be sure to subscribe to get notified for future Elite 25 episodes!www.elite25austin.com@elite25austin

Inside Austin’s Billion-Dollar Luxury Market w/ Elite 25's Gary Dolch of Austin Luxury Group.In this episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, we sit down with legendary Austin real estate powerhouse Gary Dolch—co-founder of Austin Luxury Group and a veteran with over $1.5 billion in career sales. With 22 years of experience in one of America’s hottest real estate markets, Gary reveals what it really takes to thrive in luxury real estate through economic ups and downs.A few of the topics we cover: - How Gary navigates uncertainty in the market—from recessions to pandemics- The evolution of luxury real estate in Austin over two decades- Behind-the-scenes of jaw-dropping high-stakes negotiations- The $15M deal that involved a coast-to-coast property swap- What truly defines a luxury home (it’s more than just the price tag)- Gary’s love for luxury cars and the synergy between cars and real estate- The secret to building a thriving business with your spouse- Why Gary would spend $10M on Lake Austin—and the numbers to back it up- What makes Elite 25 the most elite real estate group in TexasWhether you're buyer, seller, aspiring agent, a seasoned pro this episode is packed with real talk, smart strategy, and stories that will open your eyes to Austin's luxury real estate market.Subscribe for weekly interviews with the top 1% of Austin real estate.Follow us on Instagram: @Elite25AustinAvailable wherever you get your podcasts.www.elite25austin.com

Kumara Wilcoxon is a leading figure in Austin's luxury real estate market, boasting over two decades of experience. She serves as a Global Real Estate Advisor with Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty and has achieved nearly $3 billion in career sales. In 2023 alone, she closed $389 million in transactions, earning her the title of #1 agent in Austin and globally within Sotheby’s International Realty. In this episode, Kumara talks with us about her beginnings, the Austin real estate market, and advice for real estate agents just getting started.

In the debut episode of the Elite 25 Podcast, Tony Trungale (Managing Partner of Elite 25 Austin) sets the stage for what listeners can expect from this exclusive series. As a longtime Austin resident and 18-year leader of Elite25, Tony introduces the city’s most elite collective of real estate professionals, representing the top 1% of Austin’s 27,000+ agents.He breaks down:What Elite25 is: A carefully curated group of luxury real estate agents chosen based on performance and verified sales in the top tier of the market.Why it matters: For buyers and sellers, Elite25 provides a trusted source of vetted professionals—those who consistently perform at the highest level in Austin's competitive luxury sector.How agents are selected: It’s not just about numbers; it’s about being a true expert, committed to excellence and service.This episode also hints at what’s to come: future guests will include top-producing agents sharing real-world insights, market trends, personal journeys, and what it really takes to make it in Austin’s luxury real estate scene.