From Military Moves to Raleigh Real Estate: Kelli Smith on Building Community & Client Experience

How Jonathan Schunker Went From Running Nonprofits To Being A Loan Officer

Michael Martin interviews Jonathan Schunker, a Triangle-based loan officer, about what it actually looks like to guide clients through the mortgage process with clarity and purpose. With over 20 years in the nonprofit space before transitioning into lending, Jonathan shares how his background shaped his approach to communication, service, and simplifying what can feel like an overwhelming process. This episode focuses on making home financing more understandable, while also highlighting the impact of giving back to the local community through the work he does.

How Laurie Evans Built a Luxury Brand Without Relying on Price Point

Michael Martin interviews Laurie Evans, a Triangle native and award-winning real estate agent, about redefining what luxury means in today’s market. From her background working with builders and developers to becoming one of the area’s top agents, Laurie shares how service, design, and client experience became the foundation of her business. This episode is a practical look at how to stand out in real estate without competing on price.

Why Top Realtors Trust the Right Closing Attorney with Jason Isley

In this episode of Beyond the Closing Table, Michael Martin sits down with Jason Isley, founder of Midtown Law, to break down what really happens behind the scenes of a real estate closing. Jason shares lessons from building one of the premier real estate law firms in the Carolinas, common mistakes buyers and agents make during transactions, red flags that signal a deal may get messy, and why who you work with matters more than most people realize. If you're in real estate, lending, or buying a home soon, this episode offers practical insight into making transactions smoother and avoiding costly mistakes.

How “Big Al” Built a Referral Machine in Real Estate

In this episode of Beyond the Closing Table, Michael Martin sits down with Alex “Big Al” Lawrence to break down what it really takes to build a successful real estate business. Alex shares how he went from getting started in residential real estate to becoming a referral-driven agent, why relationships matter more than any script, and the key moments that shaped his career. They also dive into open houses, client selection, and the reality of growing a business without following the traditional playbook. Beyond business, this conversation gets real. Alex opens up about anxiety, mental health, and how he manages the pressure of real estate while still showing up for clients. They also discuss his “Stand Up for Mental Health” events and the impact they’ve had on the community. If you’re in real estate or building any kind of business, this is a raw, honest look at what it actually takes.

From Military Moves to Raleigh Real Estate: Kelli Smith on Building Community & Client Experience

In this episode of Beyond the Closing Table, Michael Martin sits down with Kelli Smith of ERA to talk about what really drives success in real estate today. Kelli shares her unique background growing up in a military family, how constant relocation shaped her perspective, and why she’s built her business around helping clients truly feel at home, not just find a house. They dive into: * Why referrals and relationships are everything in real estate * The power of community-driven events and client connection * How top agents create unforgettable client experiences * Balancing business, family, and a 24/7 industry * What today’s unpredictable market means for buyers and sellers Plus, Kelli shares a few unforgettable stories from her career that you won’t expect. If you’re a real estate agent, loan officer, or business owner looking to grow through relationships, systems, and service, this episode is worth the watch. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you’re enjoying the podcast  💬 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway #RealEstate #Mortgage #RaleighNC #ClientExperience #Entrepreneurship #BeyondTheClosingTable