The Be Better Podcast

What if the problem isn’t the market… but how you show up in it? In this episode, Lee Barrison and his son Noah break down the reality of the 2026 real estate market - and it’s not what most agents want to hear. This isn’t a crash. It’s not a boom. It’s something most agents have never actually experienced… a normal market. And in a normal market, the truth gets exposed. With data showing that 82% of agents didn’t sell a single home last year, Lee and Noah unpack what separates the ones who last from the ones who disappear. This conversation cuts through the noise and gets back to fundamentals: prospecting, appointments, consistency, and the discipline to do the work even when it’s repetitive and uncomfortable. They also tackle one of the biggest mistakes agents make - avoiding hard conversations. In today’s market, honesty in pricing isn’t optional… it’s the difference between wasting time and actually closing deals. But this episode goes deeper than strategy. It’s about mindset. The internal voice that blames the market. The excuses. The stories we tell ourselves when things get hard. Lee calls it the “drunk monkey” - and if you don’t learn how to manage it, it will cost you. This isn’t a hype video. It’s a reality check. And for those willing to hear it… a roadmap to staying in the game when most won’t.

In this podcast, Lee Barrison of Infinity Real Estate Services discusses the four components of becoming a highly productive real estate agent, focusing on balancing "Money-Making Activities" (MMAs) with "Income Servicing Activities". Money-Making Activities (MMAs) MMAs are the activities that directly produce income and commissions. Barrison identifies four key categories: Prospecting (Lead Generation): This is the daily "vehicle" of the business that creates momentum. It requires talking to people every single day to ensure a steady stream of income. Lead Follow-Up: This involves contacting individuals who want to take action within the next 30 days or less. The primary goal of lead follow-up is to set appointments rather than engaging in casual conversation. Preparation: Once an appointment is set, agents must conduct research and marketing to ensure they are "spot on" when meeting with clients. Showing Up (Appointment Time): This is the most critical phase where agents have roughly 15 minutes to present professionally and secure a signed contract. Income Servicing Activities These activities occur once a transaction is in escrow and include tasks such as handling disclosures and inspections. While necessary for communicating with current clients, Barrison notes that these tasks do not generate additional income. Productivity Strategy To achieve high productivity, Barrison recommends a specific time allocation: 80% of time should be dedicated to Money-Making Activities. 20% of time should be focused on Income Servicing Activities.

In this episode of the Be Better Podcast, host Lee Barrison sits down with Bakersfield native Carrington Prichett - youth mentor, minister, and author of The Sunday Reset. Carrington shares his heart for helping young people realign, refocus, and start again, even when life has required multiple resets. Drawing from his work with at-risk youth through Garden Pathways, he speaks candidly about mentorship, faith in action, the impact of social media on mental health, and the power of prayer as a grounding force in everyday life. The conversation also explores Carrington’s approach to intentional living, including his Sunday Reset practice, which inspired his journal designed to help others reset spiritually, emotionally, and practically every week. This episode is a thoughtful and encouraging reminder that growth often starts with pausing, listening, and choosing to be better one step at a time.

In this episode, Lee Barrison sits down with Pastor Saul Gonzalez, a thoughtful leader whose story blends faith, personal growth, and real-world ministry experience. Together with Neftali Hernandez, the conversation dives into themes of spiritual resilience, community building, and the challenges of living authentically in today’s world. The dialogue feels natural and engaging — mixing personal anecdotes, biblical wisdom, and honest reflections that listeners in or outside of ministry can connect with. Why Listen? Authentic conversation: It doesn’t feel like a lecture — it’s more like being invited into a living room chat about real struggles and victories. Practical takeaways: Listeners will leave with encouragement and actionable insights they can apply in their own faith journey. Unique perspective: The guest shares experiences that balance vulnerability and strength, reminding us that faith is lived out in the everyday.

Neftali Hernandez shares with Lee Barrison his Real Estate Sales journey and how putting people over money has been the best business practice. In his third year as a real estate agent, Neftali closed 37 transactions! So maybe there is something to his approach to real estate sales?!

Join Us for the 1st Annual Serving Hope Golf Tournament! 🏌️‍♀️ Please mark your calendars for Saturday, May 31, 2025, and participate in our inaugural golf tournament at RiverLakes Golf Course in Bakersfield. This exciting event supports Serving Hope Foundation's mission to empower the Kern County community. Event Details: Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025 Location: RiverLakes Golf Course, Bakersfield, CA Purpose: Fundraiser to support Serving Hope Foundation's community initiatives. Enjoy a day of golf, camaraderie, and community spirit, all while contributing to a noble cause. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, your participation makes a difference. Sponsorship & Registration: For sponsorship opportunities or to register your team, please contact Gabriel Tejeda at 661-319-8592. Let's come together to serve hope and make a lasting impact in our community.

Wisdom from a 17-Year-Old Future Agent On this special episode of The Be Better Podcast, Lee Barrison sits down with someone very close to home—his 17-year-old son, Noah. But don’t let the age fool you—Noah brings the heat with raw insight, powerful mindset gems, and a hunger for success that rivals the best in the business. From growing up around deals to developing a vision of his own, Noah shares what he’s learned by watching and listening—and what he’s already applying to his future in real estate. This one’s more than a family conversation. It’s proof that wisdom has no age limit. If you’re in sales, in real estate, or just looking to be better—you’ll want to hear this.

In this episode of The Be Better Podcast, host Lee Barrison, a seasoned real estate broker, sits down with a special guest Gil Hernandez whose journey will inspire anyone chasing a dream. From the grind of collections and cold calling to building a thriving career in real estate, this agent’s story is a powerful example of resilience, growth, and the power of taking risks. Tune in as they discuss what it takes to break into the industry, how transferable skills from past jobs can fuel future success, and why personal development is key in the world of real estate—and beyond. Whether you’re in sales, starting something new, or just need a motivational boost, this episode is for you.

Joining the show is Gabriel Ramirez from "Serving Hope," which is a non-profit organization run by people who love their community. Change lives with us! Host Kelly Carrera is sharing her commitment to the community this year in her effort to continue to Be Better.

Pastor Gary Barber from The Oaks Community Church Joins Kelly Carrera from Signature Home Lending to discuss the importance of faith and a healthy community on the journey of being better. The oaks community church 10200 Campus Park Dr. Bakersfield Ca, 93311 website: www.theoaksweb.com

LEE BARRISON & Kraig Gradowitz discuss the housing crisis, how presidents affect Real Estate Sales, and why waiting to buy a home may be the worst decision you can make today.

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the dynamic world of house flipping in California's competitive real estate market. Join Lee Barrison and Aileen Lapuz-Molinari as they sit down with seasoned investors and renovation experts who share their secrets to transforming rundown properties into profitable ventures. You'll hear real-life stories of overcoming challenges unique to the Golden State—from navigating sky-high property prices and strict zoning laws to managing renovation budgets and timelines. Our guests also offer practical tips on finding the right deals, working with contractors, and using sustainable design to increase a home's value. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time flipper, this episode will equip you with actionable insights and the motivation to turn fixer-uppers into financial success in one of the country's most exciting markets. Tune in and learn how to flip houses—and perspectives—one property at a time.

In this episode, Lee Barrison discusses accountability in real estate sales: why it's important, how to achieve it, and why we avoid it.

In this episode Kelly and Anselmo discuss the ins and outs of credit repair. Learn the newest laws with medical collections and how it affects your credit score. Secrets on the right amount of credit cards to acquire at one time and how to manage payments to build and maintain a healthy credit score.

Prospecting in real estate sales is the proactive process of identifying and cultivating potential clients or leads. It's a fundamental aspect of building a successful real estate business and involves several key elements, but the first thing to do is learn what it is and how to do it. Sumer and Lee talk about their experience learning this essential real estate sales practice.

Natalie Gallegos and La Shawn Baldwin talk about mental health and the real estate industry. Natalie shares her journey as a real estate agent and a therapist.

Sumer sits down with Kelly Carrera to talk about the ins and outs of home lending. Some topics covered: What are the biggest challenges you see with buyers in the current market? What first-time buyer programs are available? What is the difference between an FHA loan and a conventional loan? What is the most common issue that arises and complicates closings?

Joe Navarro & Kelly Carrera discuss the Signature Home Lending First Time Buyer Seminare on June 13 at Infinity Real Estate Services. This event is for anyone and everyone thinking about buying their first home. Dinner will be served, plus you can win some really cool prizes.

Escrow Officer Staci Carrington joins Jennifer Mathews on the beBetter Podcast to demystify the escrow process for both buyers and sellers.

Juan Bustamante with CVPA Properties talks to Real Estate Advisor Mike Fletes about Faith, Family, Fitness, & Finances.

Lee Barrison talks with Joe Navarro. Joe is the Sales Manager at Signature Home Lending. He has been with Signature Home Lending for over 11 years and genuinely enjoys every aspect of the mortgage industry.

Lee Barrison and Sumer Webb talk about Sumer's journey in real estate and how a prospecting culture differs from other brokerages and is necessary for a successful real estate career.

The Be Better podcast is not just about being better in real estate; it’s about being better in general. So wake up every day and be your best self! My guest today is a local businessman and a dear friend of mine. He is a father and a former Kern County sheriff deputy, and today, he runs job sites and submits bids for DAC construction.

Lee Barrison from Infinity Real Estate Services interviews Veronica Tovar from property ID NHD. NHD stands for Natural Hazard Disclosures; an NHD report is your chance to inform buyers of the risks involved in purchasing your home. If you disclose that your home sits in an area prone to earthquakes or wildfires, for instance, you won't be liable should a buyer purchase your house and see it destroyed by an earthquake or engulfed by a wildfire.

Larry Fajardo, aka Jersey Larry, is a Wireless communications engineer and a person in long-term recovery. In this episode, Sumer and Larry discuss what life is like living in recovery and free from the bounds of alcohol and substance abuse. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Johnny Garza joins Lee Barrison to discuss the ins and outs of building a Real Estate Team. If you want to take your business to the next level, this episode is for you!

Daysi Vergara talks with Cristina Lopez-Nieto, a loan officer with Cornerstone Mortgage. This episode provides a practical walk-through for first-time home buyers. What are common misconceptions, and how do you navigate issues like low credit and down payments?

McDonald Coons Law Group joins the show to talk about creating a comprehensive estate plan, administering a probate estate, establishing a conservatorship for a loved one, and more. Hosted by Infinity Realtor Jennifer Mathews.

In this episode hosted by Christian from The Most High Show, Broker Lee Barrison shares the adversities of life that have shaped him into who he is today. We hope that no matter what you face today, you will see proof that despite your challenges, you don't have to give up hope in your life or business.

Sumer interviews Tiffany Swanson. Infinity's 2022 MVP. Tiffany was the top producer for the Garza Group and shares her journey from waitress to top producer.

Daniel has been working in the mortgage industry since 2004. He his Samantha's preferred lender because of the wealth of knowledge and expertise he brings to home buyers. This episode is informative and quick, so if you are considering buying a home, this is a must-listen.

Joining Sumer in this episode is the founder and broker of Infinity Real Estate Services Lee Barrison. In this episode they talk about the prospecting mindset, what 2024 will look like for Real Estate Agents, and some methods to getting out of your own way in 2024.

Johnny Garza is a bilingual real estate agent who helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals. As an area native, Johnny has an intimate knowledge of local market conditions and trends that benefit his clients. On this episode, CEO AND OWNER JOE MELLO and CO-OWNER Jaime Contreras from Valor Inspection. A veteran-owned home inspection company in Bakersfield, CA.

Kenny is one of three partners and is the managing partner at Mission Family Mortuary. Detail-oriented, Kenny ensures that every memorial is as unique as the celebrated person. His work ethic and ability to be spontaneous is what separates Mission from other funeral homes. Kenny can make people very comfortable the moment they walk into a funeral home. He is a Navy veteran and is native of Bakersfield. When he’s not working, Kenny enjoys spending time with his wife Malissa, and his three daughters. He is an avid Blacksmith, woodworker, and living history re-enactor and enjoys traveling with his girls. He is also the lead-singer of a band named “The Filthies.”

First-time home buyer. Is that you? There is a common misconception that buying your first home is more complicated than it is. Samantha & Joe are here to help you understand the process and steps needed to get into a home for the first time. Credit score, income qualification. Lending ins/out’s, downpayment, taxes, job history, budget, consultation, child support, and more. Listen and learn what these two real-estate rockstars have to share. Samantha Sellers - 661.800.6669 Joe G. Navarro - Phone: 661.3700-JOE

Bobby serves with the committees at the Bakersfield Association of Realtors. He is a Father and Husband and a licensed real estate agent. Bobby shares his journey to Bakersfield and why he chooses to serve his community in Bakersfield.