Elevate With Elsner

Blake Elsner

Welcome to "Elevate with Elsner," the podcast that dives deep into the stories of individuals who've taken the bold step to follow their passion and make an impact! I'm Blake Elsner, a real estate professional by day and your host by passion. I've always believed that our true calling can often be found in the most unexpected places. That's why I'm thrilled to bring you inspiring conversations with amazing guests who have transformed their lives by pursuing work they truly love. Each episode of "Elevate with Elsner" is packed with candid discussions, heartfelt stories, and practical advice from people who took the leap and never looked back.  Whether it's leaving the corporate grind to start a business, swapping a finance job for a creative career, or any other impactful journey, you'll hear it all right here. We'll explore the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs, and most importantly, the impact these changes have made not just in their lives, but in the lives of others. So, if you're ready to be inspired, if you're dreaming of making a change, or if you just love a good story of passion and impact, "Elevate with Elsner" is the podcast for you! Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and join us on this journey of transformation and discovery. Can’t wait for you to tune in, listen to passion stories and know that even you can make an impact on the next episode of "Elevate with Elsner." See you next time! Let’s elevate together!

  1. Sep 9

    One Conversation, Endless Opportunities

    Send us Fan Mail A video can rack up 1.3 million views and still do nothing for your business. A single conversation with the right person can change everything. We talk about why podcasting is less about chasing downloads and more about building relationships that compound into introductions, referrals, and real opportunities over time. We get practical about turning one 30 to 45 minute recorded conversation into a week of high-value micro content. Instead of posting “real estate, real estate, real estate” until people tune out, we explain how to build multiple content pillars that show real life, real stories, and other voices besides our own. We also dig into what makes interviews land: the guest brings the story, we bring curiosity, and the 80/20 rule keeps us listening longer and asking better questions. We also challenge the common obsession with metrics. Going viral can be fun, but it’s rarely the true moneymaker. The win is getting in front of the right ten people, creating trust, and staying in the relationship after the recording ends. Along the way, we share a simple “invite, talk, clip, share, follow up” system, why you don’t need a studio to start, and a mindset flip that sticks: stop asking what you should post and start asking who you should talk to today. If this helped you, subscribe for more conversations, share the episode with a friend who’s stuck on content, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show.

  2. Aug 26

    What’s Really in Your Water? | Eric Kurbanov, Founder of RKIN Water Systems

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 68 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Eric Kurbanov, founder of RKIN Water Systems, as he shares how his experience shaped his perspective on water, his move to the United States with only $200 in his pocket, and how determination, education, and taking action helped him build a new life. At just 21, he achieved his American dream of buying a home after working two jobs and saving toward his goal.  Tune in to hear Eric’s inspiring entrepreneurial story, learn what may actually be in your drinking water, understand how reverse osmosis works, and discover why sometimes the biggest business opportunities come from solving problems people don't even realize they have. TIMESTAMPS [00:01:59] Growing up in Uzbekistan with limited access to running water. [00:06:17] Eric’s journey from Uzbekistan to the United States. [00:07:58] Buying his first home before turning 21. [00:10:10] Discovering reverse osmosis and starting the entrepreneurial journey. [00:14:33] Navigating the 2009 downturn and business challenges. [00:16:24] Launching countertop reverse osmosis systems in 2011. [00:17:47] Why refrigerator filters may not remove all contaminants. [00:19:05] Water 101: What happens between the water plant and your home? [00:21:44] How to access and understand your local water report. [00:23:04] Lead pipes, PFAS, and other water-quality concerns. [00:26:54] Reverse osmosis explained in simple terms. [00:29:58] Common myths about reverse osmosis and minerals. [00:33:22] Educating consumers without fear-based selling. [00:35:43] Why water quality should be part of the home-buying conversation. [00:37:08] The truth about refrigerator filters and false confidence. [00:39:00] Eric’s final advice and where to learn more. QUOTES "People don't know about this stuff." – Eric Kurbanov"You have to educate people so they know what they're dealing with." – Eric Kurbanov"One thing you're going to take away is you're going to go message Eric and get your local water report." – Blake Elsner Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Eric Kurbanov Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric007/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erickurbanov/  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/

  3. Jul 30

    Breaking the Silence: Shannon Nicole's Journey of Healing & Hope

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 67 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Shannon Nicole, HR professional, author, advocate, and survivor—for a courageous conversation about overcoming trauma, embracing healing, and transforming life's greatest challenges into a mission of helping others. She also explains how writing became part of her healing process, why community and relationships are essential for recovery, and how serving others has become the cornerstone of her life's mission.  Tune in to hear Shannon Nicole's inspiring journey of resilience, discover practical tools for healing and growth, and learn how speaking your truth can empower both your life and the lives of those around you. TIMESTAMPS  [00:00:26] Meet Shannon Nicole: Author, advocate, and survivor.  [00:01:33] Life after marriage, military life, and early career.  [00:02:48] A 26-year HR career and passion for helping people.  [00:04:09] The story behind Silent No More.  [00:06:19] Surviving domestic violence and an unexpected legal battle.  [00:10:19] Fighting for justice and rebuilding her life.  [00:13:58] Healing through writing and helping other survivors.  [00:18:33] Honoring her father through The Long Goodbye.  [00:21:13] Why healing is a lifelong journey.  [00:22:13] Gratitude, journaling, and daily healing practices.  [00:24:19] Advice for anyone carrying hidden pain.  [00:25:34] What's next for Shannon Nicole?  [00:26:21] Building a legacy of hope and advocacy.  [00:27:42] Rapid-fire questions and personal insights.  [00:30:41] Final encouragement and closing message. QUOTES "The shame lives in silence. Once I started talking about it, that became part of my healing." – Shannon Nicole"Healing is ongoing because when you become a different version of yourself, there's always something new to heal." – Shannon Nicole"Keep showing up, keep going, and keep elevating." – Blake Elsner SOCIAL MEDIA Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Shannon Nicole LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shannon-nicole/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannon___hayes  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorshannonicole  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shannonicole  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/ Shannon Nicole: https://www.shannonnicoleconsulting.com/books

  4. Jul 15

    Building More Than a Mortgage Business: David Ames- Agent STL & the Future of Real Estate

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 66 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews David Ames, a respected mortgage professional, community leader, and founder of Agent STL, to discuss how genuine relationships, servant leadership, and continuous learning have fueled his success in the real estate industry.  Tune in to discover how authentic leadership, continuous education, and meaningful connections can transform your business and help you elevate both personally and professionally.  TIMESTAMPS [00:00:22] Meet David Ames and his entrepreneurial journey. [00:00:57] Growing up in a military family and lessons from constant change. [00:02:57] From Verizon corporate trainer to the mortgage industry  [00:07:06] Why serving people matters more than selling. [00:08:25] Learning through adversity and thriving under pressure. [00:12:06] The vision behind Agent STL [00:16:45] Collaboration over competition in real estate. [00:20:50] Agent STL events, workshops, and educating industry professionals. [00:23:04] Upcoming events and relationship-building [00:25:56] Why every networking event creates growth opportunities. [00:27:31] Rapid-fire questions with David Ames. [00:29:56] Final thoughts on relationships, leadership, and serving others. QUOTES "Taking the nerves out of it is something that I take a lot of pride in." – David Ames"As you help people, you succeed." – Blake Elsner"It's not just about business or transactions—it's about relationships, it's about people." – Blake Elsner Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ David Ames LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ames-79031a57/  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/ Agent STL: https://agentstl.com/About

  5. Jun 24

    The Most Expensive Mistakes People Don't Know They're Making With Dan Luigs

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 65 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Dan Luigs, who shares how he leveraged relationships with real estate agents, mortgage pros, and entrepreneurs to build a winning team and client base, and to learn about the biggest misconceptions that cost individuals and businesses dearly.  Tune in to learn exactly what you’re risking and how smart, proactive leadership can help you secure your future... and achieve peace of mind!  TIMESTAMPS [00:00:05] Meet Blake Elsner & guest Dan Luigs: background, values, and the power of hard work [00:03:25] Differentiation through relationships, service, and mentorship [00:07:25] Common insurance mistakes and the real cost of “saving money” [00:09:55] Real-world claim stories: from underinsurance to denied claims [00:18:04] The new deductible landscape—why your policy may have changed [00:24:56] Life events that demand a policy review [00:29:27] The risk of uninsured drivers and protecting yourself [00:33:10] Future outlook: Why the market is finally stabilizing [00:38:25] Wrapping up: Protecting your business, family, and legacy QUOTES "You have so much value to somebody else, and it could be just being there to support them." – Dan Luigs"It's not always really about policies. It's about protecting your family, your business, your assets, and the life that you've worked so hard to build." – Blake Elsner"Smart People sometimes understand things poorly... Just because you know the numbers doesn’t mean you understand the true cost." – Dan Luigs Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Dan Luigs Phone Number: 314-503-0964 WEBSITES Dan Luigs: https://www.insurancestoreinc.com/staff-directory/DanLuigs Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/

  6. Jun 17

    From 50 Bikes to 100,000 Sold: The Mindset Behind Impacting 2 Million Lives- Stewart Miller

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 64 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Stewart Miller, Founder of ARKHE Club and Livewire Production, as he shares his remarkable journey of relentless innovation and purposeful leadership. Along the way, he’s partnered with powerhouse brands like UFC, Technogym, and Disney, introducing more than 2 million people to active lifestyles and reshaping the fitness industry in the process.  Tune in for insider wisdom from a leader who proves that building something bigger than yourself is the ultimate reward!  TIMESTAMPS [00:01:12] Early entrepreneurial journey: From motorcycles to cars [00:04:25] Scaling the bike business: From 25 frames to 100,000 bikes [00:08:34] The power of boundaries and business confidence [00:09:24] Pivoting to volume: Unlocking exponential growth [00:12:17] Building relationships & winning partnerships [00:17:10] Human behavior, discomfort, and entrepreneurial growth [00:22:14] Leadership mistakes: Letting go, team building, and trust [00:27:40] Technology & AI: The future of fitness, business, and connection [00:33:07] Rapid fire: Best books, lessons, and personal risks [00:35:11] Lasting impact: Moving lives and creating meaningful change QUOTES "When you find your niche, there’s only a handful of operators in the world good enough to perform at a level that international brands want to work with." – Stewart Miller"Entrepreneurs who are successful thrive on that uncomfortableness because they know that when they break through it, they break through to another level." – Stewart Miller"Success isn’t just about what you build, it’s about who you impact along the way." – Blake Elsner Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Stewart Miller Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stewartmiller/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stewart.miller.940/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartmillerlw/  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/

  7. Jun 8

    16 Years Old & Already in Walmart: The Mr. Fresh Global Story

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 63 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Joshua Danrich, the 16-year-old entrepreneur who’s already made business history by getting his innovative air freshener brand, MrFreshGlobal, onto Walmart’s shelves, as he shares the behind-the-scenes story of pitching his product at the Walmart Open Call, what it took to stand out among 700+ competitors, and how he stays laser-focused while balancing his responsibilities as a student and business owner.  Tune in to discover actionable advice on team growth, relationship-building, and the courage to implement your ideas—no matter your starting point. If you’ve ever needed proof that it’s never too early to chase your dreams, this episode delivers.  TIMESTAMPS [00:00:21] Meet Joshua Danrich—16 and already in Walmart [00:01:43] Early entrepreneurial beginnings and family mentorship [00:04:04] Standing out from the crowd & teaching others to dream big [00:05:41] Cracking the code: Pitching and winning at Walmart [00:10:18] Delivering on big promises—production and logistics [00:11:11] What makes MrFreshGlobal unique and lasting [00:13:43] Life-changing milestones: From Good Morning America to viral moments [00:16:59] Time management, school balance, and the “work now, play later” ethic [00:19:11] The power of routines, scheduling, and staying booked [00:20:43] Shattering misconceptions about youth and success [00:21:54] Faith, resilience, and “doing it anyway”—the MrFreshGlobal mindset [00:25:15] Where to find MrFreshGlobal and final motivation QUOTES "If you believe it, if you can tell your mind you believe it, you can achieve it." – Joshua Danrich"Success doesn't just ask for your age. It asks for action." – Blake Elsner"I want to motivate and inspire kids that you can be bigger than anything that the world tells you you can be." – Joshua Danrich Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Joshua Danrich (Mr. Fresh) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrfreshglobal/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mrfreshglobal/  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/

  8. May 13

    Building the Next Layer with Landon Lynch

    Send us Fan Mail In episode 62 of Elevate with Elsner, Blake Elsner interviews Landon Lynch, founder of Motiv People Strategies, as he emphasizes the importance of understanding limiting beliefs and how they can hinder personal and professional growth. Tune in to discover how Landon's mission to serve others shapes his work and philosophy. TIMESTAMPS [00:01:23] Purpose and clarity in leadership. [00:06:02] Limiting beliefs and personal growth. [00:08:30] Limiting beliefs and personal growth. [00:12:42] Establishing trust in leadership transitions. [00:14:36] Trust and transparency in leadership. [00:19:24] Founder’s role in developing leaders. [00:22:47] Founder self-actualization challenges. [00:25:45] Effective leadership mindset. [00:29:15] Founder advice and support. QUOTES "The problem solves itself because the person understands it." -Landon Lynch"If you're not growing and evolving and developing, you're usually atrophying in some way." -Landon Lynch"I think getting really curious today about what it's like on the other side of you is a great place to start." -Landon Lynch SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Blake Elsner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpelsner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.elsner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-elsner-a04396b5/ Landon Lynch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landonclynch/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/moshi-space/  WEBSITES Elevate with Elsner Podcast: https://elevatewithelsnerpodcast.com/ Motiv People Strategies: https://www.motivstrat.com/our-team

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Elevate with Elsner," the podcast that dives deep into the stories of individuals who've taken the bold step to follow their passion and make an impact! I'm Blake Elsner, a real estate professional by day and your host by passion. I've always believed that our true calling can often be found in the most unexpected places. That's why I'm thrilled to bring you inspiring conversations with amazing guests who have transformed their lives by pursuing work they truly love. Each episode of "Elevate with Elsner" is packed with candid discussions, heartfelt stories, and practical advice from people who took the leap and never looked back.  Whether it's leaving the corporate grind to start a business, swapping a finance job for a creative career, or any other impactful journey, you'll hear it all right here. We'll explore the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs, and most importantly, the impact these changes have made not just in their lives, but in the lives of others. So, if you're ready to be inspired, if you're dreaming of making a change, or if you just love a good story of passion and impact, "Elevate with Elsner" is the podcast for you! Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and join us on this journey of transformation and discovery. Can’t wait for you to tune in, listen to passion stories and know that even you can make an impact on the next episode of "Elevate with Elsner." See you next time! Let’s elevate together!