Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back - A Real Estate Podcast

Coldwell Banker American Homes
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

Join Michael Litzner, Broker/Owner of Coldwell Banker American Homes, as he delves into the dynamic world of real estate. In each episode, Michael interviews industry experts to uncover insights, strategies, and trends shaping the business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this podcast offers valuable knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to learn from the best in the business and discover how to work hard, play hard, and give back in the ever-evolving real estate industry.

  1. Aug 12 ·  Video

    S4E1 - Ron Starrantino: The Most Interesting Man in Real Estate

    Season 4 kicks off with one of the most fascinating guests we’ve ever had on the podcast. Ron Starrantino’s career has taken him from Wall Street to Hollywood, from competitive bodybuilding to the motorcycle industry, and ultimately to becoming one of Long Island’s top real estate professionals. Along the way, he’s worked with celebrities, built award-winning business networks, and developed a reputation as a relentless negotiator who treats every client like family. In this episode, Ron shares: How his background in finance and entertainment shaped his approach to sales and negotiationThe mindset that helped him become a top-producing real estate agentWhy relationships and communication are the foundation of every successful transactionLessons from building one of the largest BNI networking chapters in the worldHis passion for supporting veterans, local businesses, and giving back to the communityIncredible stories from Hollywood, Sons of Anarchy, motorcycles, Ferraris, and moreWhether you’re a real estate professional, entrepreneur, or someone looking for inspiration on building a career through grit, relationships, and perseverance, this episode is packed with practical insights and unforgettable stories. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S4E1 - Ron Starrantino: The Most Interesting Man in Real Estate

  2. Mar 4

    S3E10 - Taking Your Unfair Share: Coldwell Banker Affiliates CEO Jason Waugh on Market Cycles, Mindset, and Growth

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back – A Real Estate Podcast, host Mike Litzner sits down with Jason Waugh, CEO of Coldwell Banker Affiliates Worldwide, to discuss what it takes to lead and grow at the highest levels of the real estate industry. Jason shares insight into managing a global network of agents, maintaining brand consistency across markets, and why mindset, discipline, and follow-up are critical in both strong and challenging market cycles. The conversation covers taking market share in down markets, building relationships at scale, leveraging AI and technology for efficiency, and the importance of staying focused on what you can control. The episode also explores leadership, family, giving back, and why service and community involvement remain core to long-term success in real estate. Whether you are an agent, broker, or industry leader, this episode offers practical perspective and timeless lessons on growth, execution, and leadership. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S3E10 - Taking Your Unfair Share: Coldwell Banker Affiliates CEO Jason Waugh on Market Cycles, Mindset, and Growth

  3. Feb 18

    S3E9 - Contracts to Closings: Real Estate Attorney Ron Alber on Getting NY Deals Done

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back – A Real Estate Podcast, host Mike Litzner sits down with Ron Alber, Real Estate Attorney and Founder of The Alber Law Group, to break down what really happens between contract and closing in New York real estate. Ron shares practical insights on: -The most common legal mistakes sellers and buyers make -Why due diligence matters before listing or purchasing a home -Certificates of Occupancy, permits, and how missing paperwork can derail a deal -How agents, attorneys, and lenders can work together to keep transactions moving -Staying calm and professional when emotions and pressure run high -Estate planning basics every homeowner should understand -Wild but true closing table stories from nearly 25 years in practice Whether you’re a buyer, seller, agent, or investor, this episode offers real-world guidance to help you avoid costly mistakes and close with confidence. 👉 Subscribe for new episodes 👍 Like if you found value 💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway 📍 Guest: Ron Alber, Esq. 🌐 Website: alberlaw.com 📞 Phone: 631-462-6900 Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

  4. Feb 5

    S3E8 - What Makes Northport Special: 35 Years of Top-Level Real Estate with Janet Pushee

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back, Mike Litzner sits down with Janet Pushee, a top agent in the Northport / Huntington market with over 35 years of experience. Janet shares what has mattered most throughout her career — waking up each day with a mission, staying productive, putting clients first, and answering the phone when it counts. The conversation also dives into what makes Northport such a special community, how buyers and sellers should approach today’s market, and why giving back through civic involvement is so important to her. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, seller, or real estate professional, this episode offers thoughtful insight from someone who has truly seen it all. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S3E8 - What Makes Northport Special: 35 Years of Top-Level Real Estate with Janet Pushee

  5. Jan 21

    S3E7 - How the MLS Really Works: OneKey COO Melissa King Breaks It Down

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back – A Real Estate Podcast, Mike Litzner sits down with Melissa King, COO of OneKey® MLS, for a behind-the-scenes look at the data, technology, and decisions that power the real estate industry. Melissa breaks down what the MLS really is, how listing data flows to consumer portals, why transparency and standards matter, and how AI and smarter integrations are shaping what’s next for brokers and agents. The conversation also dives into leadership, industry change, and wraps with a fun Drop the Mic moment you won’t want to miss. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S3E7 - How the MLS Really Works: OneKey COO Melissa King Breaks It Down

  6. Jan 7

    S3E6 - Inside Today's Mortgage Market: Scott Rosenberg on Rates, Risk & Real Advice

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back, Mike Litzner sits down with Scott Rosenberg of CrossCountry Mortgage, a mortgage professional with 35 years of experience navigating every type of market cycle.  Scott breaks down today's mortgage landscape with clarity and candor from why Fed rate cuts don t always translate to lower mortgage rates, to the real differences between pre-approvals and commitment letters, rate locks, VA loans, first-time buyer programs, and jumbo financing.  He also shares practical advice for agents on strengthening offers, reducing deal risk, and educating buyers for smoother closings. The conversation goes beyond numbers, touching on ethics, long-term financial responsibility, market misconceptions, and the importance of doing right by clients even when it means saying no. If you re a real estate agent, buyer, or industry professional looking for real-world mortgage insight without the noise, this episode delivers real advice you can use. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S3E6 - Inside Today's Mortgage Market: Scott Rosenberg on Rates, Risk & Real Advice

  7. 12/17/2025

    S3E5 - Sandra Caruso: Leadership, Growth, and Building from the Ground Up

    In this episode of Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back, Mike Litzner sits down with Sandra Caruso, Regional Manager of the Mount Sinai and Wading River offices for Coldwell Banker American Homes. Sandra shares what it really takes to lead 100+ agents across two distinct markets, how her experience as an agent shapes her leadership style, and why understanding people, not just transactions, is the foundation of long-term success. The conversation also goes inside the brand new Mount Sinai office, built from the ground up, including how modern spaces and in-house studios are helping agents elevate their marketing and better serve their clients. From fiduciary responsibility and negotiation nuance to community involvement, mentorship, and giving back, this episode offers a behind the scenes look at leadership in today’s real estate landscape. Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

  8. 12/03/2025

    S3E4 - David Innocenzi: From Rome To Real Estate Leadership

    Thank you for listening Stay connected with us: Facebook: facebook.com/cbamhomesInstagram: instagram.com/cbamhomesTwitter: twitter.com/cbamhomesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/cbamhomesVisit our website: cbamhomes.comInterested in a career in real estate? Join our team: careers.cbamhomes.comNeed to get licensed? New York Real Estate Salesperson Classes: resnys.com/77-hr-new-york-real-estate-salesperson-classes-cb/

    S3E4 - David Innocenzi: From Rome To Real Estate Leadership
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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join Michael Litzner, Broker/Owner of Coldwell Banker American Homes, as he delves into the dynamic world of real estate. In each episode, Michael interviews industry experts to uncover insights, strategies, and trends shaping the business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this podcast offers valuable knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to learn from the best in the business and discover how to work hard, play hard, and give back in the ever-evolving real estate industry.

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