#040 – Julian Douglas – Building a Real Estate Media Business From Scratch

#040 – Julian Douglas – Building a Real Estate Media Business From Scratch

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Julian Douglas, founder of JD Real Estate Media, to talk about how he built a real estate photography and media business from the ground up. Julian shares his journey from barber school to buying his first drone, learning photography through YouTube, and starting with nothing more than an iPhone and a vision to create something bigger for himself and his future family.  The conversation dives into the creative side of real estate photography, building systems, balancing a full-time job while growing a business, and the importance of consistency during slow seasons. Ethan and Julian also discuss social media marketing, client relationships, expanding throughout North Carolina, and what it takes to turn a side hustle into a full-time business. Plus, they talk football, coffee, entrepreneurship, and the pressure of wedding photography.  Coffee Highlight: Bones Coffee Company – S’morey Time Blend

#039 – Allie Parker – Building a 50M Real Estate Business Without Losing Your Life

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Allie Parker of Sotheby’s International Realty to talk about building a thriving real estate business through relationships, systems, and genuinely caring for clients. Allie shares her journey from designing clothes for Belk to becoming one of the top-producing agents in the Triangle, closing over $50 million in volume last year while balancing motherhood and growing a team.  The conversation dives into coaching, hiring the right people, creating systems that save time, and why referrals and client experience have been the foundation of her success. Ethan and Allie also discuss AI in real estate, crazy transaction stories, balancing family life with business growth, the evolution of Cary, and learning how to set boundaries in an industry that never fully turns off.  Of course, they also review coffee from Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery in Cary, featuring the Tanzania blend.

#038 – Anthony Medeiros – Real Estate, Surfing & the Entrepreneur Mindset

In this episode of Coffee & Closings, Ethan sits down with Anthony Medeiros to talk about his journey from growing up in a military family to building a career in real estate and entrepreneurship in the Triangle. Anthony shares how studying entrepreneurship at NC State shaped his mindset, why joining the right team changed his business, and how focusing on relationships over transactions has helped him grow as an agent. The conversation dives into the importance of mentorship, staying organized in a fast-paced business, investing in real estate, and balancing work with the things you genuinely enjoy. Ethan and Anthony also talk about surfing, fitness, running a wellness studio, and building a lifestyle centered around community, flexibility, and doing meaningful work.  Coffee Highlight: Oak City Coffee Roasters – La Mano De Dios

#037 – Devin Curlings – The Power of Mentorship & Teamwork

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

#036 – Neda Navab – Leadership, Legacy & The Future of Real Estate

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)