Stop Wineing About Real Estate

Today we sit down with branch manager Andy Novak for his first ever podcast appearance. Andy shares how he started writing loans at 18 and why his calm steady presence wins trust from first time buyers and luxury clients alike. We dig into his Tuesday calls system for transparent updates and confident referral asks, the reputation mindset that keeps every file tight, and the follow up muscle that turns quiet leads into closings. Andy breaks down how to diversify beyond agent referrals by partnering with retail bankers and financial advisors, how to act as a true gatekeeper for clients, and what he looks for when recruiting loan officers who can structure deals but want help with networking. We also talk chameleon energy, process over personality, and the father daughter Heat game tradition that keeps him grounded. Pour a glass and learn how to build a branch and a book of business with calm communication and consistent action. Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

Emmanuel and Sarah sit down with repeat guest Jeff Creegan and rising agent Zach for a real talk power session on building in a shifting market. Jeff breaks down how posting three to five TikToks a day led to a six figure view spike and why engagement rules the algorithm. The crew digs into Compass Private Exclusive strategy with millions in off market inventory, prospecting expireds that are converting again, and why rates at three year lows are waking buyers and refis back up. Jeff shares the mindset behind moving to downtown Delray, scaling the Creegan Team with marketing heavy hitters, launching a 20 unit luxury townhome project with private pools, and committing to market harder. Closing note from Jeff to agents and clients alike: take the risk, get uncomfortable, go full throttle. Contact Jeff: Website: https://creeganteam.com/agent/jeffrey-creegan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creegan.realty/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.creegan Contact Zach: Website: https://creeganteam.com/agent/zach-possanza Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachpossanza/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zach123435 Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

We sit down with Noreen Payne, Realtor and co leader of the Amy and Noreen Team at Lang Realty, to trace her path into real estate, the power of true partnership with Amy Snook, and how a concierge, relationship driven approach sets clients up for wins across South Florida. We dig into Palm Beach County trends and Delray Beach standouts like Lake Ida, Palm Trail, Tropic Isles, and new downtown developments, plus real world tips for buyers and sellers on pricing, timing, and matching with the right lending and service partners. We also talk about community and leadership from Chamber involvement to Impact 100 and how service fuels a sustainable business. Along the way we compare speedy tech with human touch, share team building lessons from a growing group of six, and swap personal stories about family life, client appreciation parties, and finding balance while serving at a high level. Connect with the Amy and Noreen Team Website: amyandnoreenteam.com Instagram: @amyandnoreen Facebook: Amy and Noreen Team Phone: 561 571 2289 Email: team@amyandnoreenteam.com Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

In real estate and mortgages, it is easy to feel like you are spinning plates while chasing leads, closing deals, and trying to keep your business afloat all at once. In this episode, Emmanuel and Sarah sit down with Carlos Rojas from The Profit Recipe to talk about EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System, and why it matters. Carlos shares how agents, loan officers, teams, and brokerages can use EOS to bring structure to the chaos and create a clear path for growth. From defining your vision and tracking key numbers to building accountability, EOS helps you run your business instead of your business running you. Whether you are a solo agent, leading a team, or scaling a brokerage, this conversation is full of practical tools to help you find freedom, clarity, and consistency. Connect w/ Carlos Rojas: Website: EOS Worldwide Instagram: @carlos_drojas LinkedIn: Carlos Rojas Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

This episode was just too good not to bring back. We’re replaying one of our favorites so you can catch (or re-catch) all the insight and energy. Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of condo insurance? Join us for an eye-opening episode of Stop Wineing About Real Estate, where we sit down with insurance expert Tim Renfro. With a career that began on the University of Kentucky's baseball field and led to a deep dive into the insurance world, Tim shares his captivating journey and the insider knowledge he's gained along the way. Discover the hidden factors that drive skyrocketing insurance premiums, the unexpected ripple effects of hurricanes and building collapses, and why condo associations are facing unprecedented challenges. But it's not all doom and gloom—Tim offers actionable strategies to help homeowners and associations navigate these turbulent waters. Packed with real-life anecdotes and expert insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in protecting their property and understanding the complex world of condo insurance. Tune in for a blend of humor, honesty, and invaluable advice! Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

In this lively roundtable, Emmanuel welcomes John Hinks from South Carolina and Brian Mozley from Albuquerque for a candid conversation about leadership, community, and keeping the joy alive in a challenging market. From lessons learned in coaching groups to creative sales meeting strategies, the group shares how accountability, collaboration, and focusing on your “25 percent” can reignite passion for the business. They talk imposter syndrome, building culture, and why the right people matter more than the right market. Plus, hear how “grit” became a rallying cry for growth, reliance, investment, and thriving - and why finding your tribe is the ultimate game-changer in real estate and lending. Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900 | 888-216-6476

In this episode of Stop Wineing About Real Estate, we flip the script for a candid conversation about the true challenges and triumphs of business development in the real estate world. Hosts Emmanuel and Sarah are joined by two powerhouse women, Adriana Bates and Tammy Schneider, who share their journeys in the mortgage and real estate industry. From navigating the complexities of loan officer partnerships to the importance of building authentic relationships, this episode dives into the strategies that actually work and the lessons learned from trial and error. Whether you're in real estate or just love a behind-the-scenes story, this one’s packed with insights and inspiration. Plus, find out how women are breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry and why relationships are key to sustainable success. Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900 | 888-216-6476

In this episode of Stop Wineing About Real Estate, we uncork a conversation with Palm Beach native and powerhouse agent Jeff Creegan - founder of The Creegan Team and a true master of modern real estate hustle. From his roots behind the bar to building a high-performing team at Compass, Jeff shares how hospitality taught him to read people, stay nimble, and deliver unforgettable service. We get into the psychology of negotiation, the realities of today’s market, and how staying consistent (and caffeinated) has helped Jeff and his team rack up over $200 million in sales. He drops gems on marketing, building a team, and why Gen Z agents might need a little tough love. If you're in real estate or just obsessed with business glow-ups, you’ll want to hear how Jeff mixes old-school grit with new-school strategy to stay ahead in the game. Grab your glass, press play, and let’s wine about it. Meet Our Guest Jeffrey Creegan is a Palm Beach native whose passion for people, property, and performance led him to launch The Creegan Team. With a deep understanding of his community, a background in luxury hospitality, and a strong entrepreneurial lineage, Jeffrey’s built a real estate business centered around service, strategy, and staying ahead of the game. He’s mastered the art of using digital marketing, video content, and social media to make listings pop and build trust with his audience. Whether he’s working with buyers, sellers, or relocators, Jeffrey blends precision, personality, and professionalism to get results—and keep people talking. Fun Facts Played college football in the Midwest before returning home to Florida Spent years in top-tier restaurants before diving into real estate Broke multiple price records in his local market Comes from a family of entrepreneurs and sales pros A true digital marketing junkie—he’s not afraid of a TikTok listing tour! Follow Jeff: Instagram : @thecreeganteam YouTube : @thecreeganteam TikTok : @thecreeganteam Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900 | 888-216-6476

On this episode of Stop Wineing About Real Estate , we’re diving into the fine print of property insurance with Dan Labow, Senior Public Adjuster at Coastal Claims Services. With more than a decade of experience handling thousands of claims, Dan breaks down what public adjusters really do, how agents and homeowners can avoid common pitfalls, and why calling your insurance company first might be a costly mistake. From drones and storm prep to deductible drama and policy loopholes, this episode is packed with insight for homeowners and real estate pros alike. Whether you're navigating a claim now or just want to be better prepared, Dan shares the kind of advice that can save you serious time and money. Meet Our Guest Dan Labow is a Senior Public Insurance Adjuster with Coastal Claims Services, licensed across Florida, Georgia, Texas, and more. Over the past ten years, he’s adjusted thousands of property claims and holds certifications from the IAUA and Windstorm Network. Dan is also a certified FAA Drone Pilot and currently serves on the Board of Directors for FAPIA. His mission is simple: help property owners get what they’re entitled to, and level the playing field in a system that’s often stacked against them. Connect with Dan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danlabow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danlabow Company Website Coastal Claims Services: https://coastalclaims.net FAPIA: https://www.fapia.net Fun Facts Dan is a licensed drone pilot who literally gets a bird’s eye view of roof damage He offers free, no-obligation inspections and consultations He’s been happily married for 35 years and is a proud girl dad to two daughters He uses AI tools to scan insurance policies in seconds and build stronger claims Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900 | 888-216-6476

In this high energy episode of Stop Wineing About Real Estate , we sit down with Shane Eslahi, also known as Solar Shane, to hear how he went from door-to-door sales newcomer to building a nearly 10-million-dollar solar division in under three years. As the Sales Director of Rack Electric’s Solar Division and Co Founder and President of Peace Love Solar LLC in Boca Raton, Florida, Shane shares his unfiltered journey to success and the mindset that made it possible. We dive into how solar directly intersects with real estate, from boosting property value to giving agents a competitive edge in a changing market. Shane breaks down the latest policy shifts, including how the new legislation known as the Big Beautiful Bill could impact solar incentives for homeowners, what agents and buyers need to know now, and why time is of the essence to lock in savings before the end of the year. Whether you're an agent, investor, homeowner, or just curious about what it really takes to go solar, this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and real talk from one of the industry’s most trusted and successful leaders. Contact Shane Instagram : @solar.shane , @rackelectricsolar , @peacelovesolar Facebook : Shane Eslahi – Peace Love Solar Contact The Winos Website : choicemortgage.com Email : info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn : Choice Mortgage Group Instagram : @choicemortgagegroup YouTube : Choice Mortgage Group Facebook : Choice Mortgage Group TikTok : Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone : 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

Today’s guest wears two powerful hats - helping people rebuild their financial futures with Liberty Credit Experts and helping entrepreneurs expand their reach through Networking Beast. Gabe Kutlin is a credit coach and connector extraordinaire who’s here to break down credit myths, share wild success stories, and remind us why both who you know and what you know really matter. We dive into the world of credit - what matters, what doesn’t, and how Gabe and his team are helping people across the country get back on track. Plus, Gabe shares how he’s built one of Florida’s most active networking communities, turning strangers into collaborators and lifelong friends. Whether you’re looking to improve your credit or grow your business network, this episode delivers real tools, real talk, and real results. Meet Our Guest: Gabe Kutlin is all about building up - whether it’s your credit score or your business network. At Liberty Credit Experts, he and his team work to remove inaccurate items, boost financial literacy, and help clients become mortgage-ready. Outside of credit repair, Gabe leads Networking Beast, a growing community focused on real connections that lead to real business. He believes in transparency, hustle, and never missing an opportunity to bring value to the table. Fun Facts: Helped a client raise their score 150+ points in under 90 days Hosted some of South Florida’s most buzz-worthy networking events Known to take over any room with a mic, a whiteboard, and a passion to teach Contact Gabe: Companies : Liberty Credit Experts, Networking Beast Facebook : facebook.com/gabriel.kutlin Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

What happens when breaking news collides with the housing market—and the banner on national TV reads “Raw Dogging at the White House” ? We’re diving into that and so much more in this sharp, unfiltered episode featuring Erin Parker , Emmy-nominated television producer and Director of Programming at Newsmax. With decades of experience shaping some of the most-watched political and cultural narratives on TV, Erin gives us an insider’s look at how media is made, who controls the headlines, and how it all influences the way we think, feel, and make decisions—including when it comes to buying or selling a home. A Boca Raton native and proud mom of two, Erin dishes on everything from late-night news alerts and viral on-air slip-ups to what real estate professionals need to understand about media’s powerful role in shaping public perception. This one’s funny, eye-opening, and a little bit outrageous—just the way we like it. Contact Erin Parker: Instagram: @erinjparker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erin.parker.7121 Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

What does it really take to thrive in real estate through market shifts, personal doubt, and national-level policy debates? In this lively, unfiltered conversation, co-hosts Sarah Biernbaum and Emmanuel St. Germain sit down with powerhouse realtor Monica Hands—Florida NAR Director, co-broker at Century 21 Hansen, and someone who’s seen the grind from AOL dial-up days to DC-level influence. From slouch-shaming chairs and yoga in Peru to the frustrating realities of deceptive refinancing mailers and condo chaos, this episode covers it all with humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom. Monica opens up about her early career insecurities, why she still loves selling after 22 years, and how she balances advocacy with the day-to-day hustle of helping agents thrive. They unpack the truth about trigger leads, shady marketing tactics, and what the industry really needs to get better—from contract comprehension to better buyer consultations. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or thinking about your first real estate class, you’ll leave this conversation fired up, better informed, and laughing along the way. Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

This re-release of one of our most talked-about episodes brings back powerhouse agent Stacy Plean, who unapologetically pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to stand out in real estate. From spending $14K/month on Zillow leads to fielding 1AM client calls, Stacy breaks down the raw hustle and heart behind her strategy. She’s part coach, part closer, part therapist—and 100% committed to building real trust before asking for pre-approvals. Tune back in as Stacy unpacks the good, bad, and behind-the-scenes of Zillow Flex, shares why she’s no fan of the “Stepford Wife” systems like Rocket and Redfin, and reveals her refreshingly blunt team-building beliefs. Whether you’re new to the industry or just need a reminder that you’re not crazy for doing things differently, this replay is full of real talk, hard truths, and game-changing mindset shifts that made it a fan favorite. Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476

This episode was just too good not to serve again! We’re re-airing our wildly popular conversation with Shaina Wizov, the creative force behind Take a Bite Out of South Florida . In this listener-favorite, Shaina shares how she turned her passion for food, travel, and storytelling into a full-blown influencer brand. From navigating press trips and partnerships to surviving travel fails (yes, broken shoes included!), Shaina dishes out real talk, humor, and solid strategies for building an authentic online presence. Whether it’s brunch in Boca or bites abroad, every story comes with a lesson—and a laugh. If you missed it the first time or just want a second helping, pull up a seat. This re-air is a masterclass in bold living and creative hustle. Contact Shaina Wizov: Email: takeabiteoutofboca@gmail.com Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/ Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov Contact The Winos: Website: choicemortgage.com Email: info@choicemortgage.com LinkedIn: Choice Mortgage Group Instagram: @choicemortgagegroup YouTube: Choice Mortgage Group Facebook: Choice Mortgage Group TikTok: Choice Mortgage Boca Raton Phone Numbers: 561-395-6900, 888-216-6476