Hustle Humbly Podcast

Alissa Jenkins & Katy Caldwell
  • 4.9 (904)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join us for Hustle Humbly where we hope you will build the confidence to find your voice and your way to a successful real estate business and beyond. Listen in as Alissa & Katy, two top producing Realtors, talk about fostering community over competition while navigating the often times cutthroat real estate industry. With over 1000 homes sold between them and 13 and 19 years each in the business, they have seen it first hand. Deep dive into conversations and interviews about mindset and best practices with real life stories mixed in. The goal of Hustle Humbly is to reach out and encourage Realtors and business people alike to stop comparing themselves and start embracing their own strengths.

  1. 6D AGO

    347: The Housing Shortage Explained

    We finally did it. We sat down with the man behind the numbers AND we recorded it live at the NAR podcast studio in Chicago.   If you've ever been at a dinner party, a showing, or a closing table and gotten hit with "so... how's the market?", this episode is for you. We got to chat with Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, and y'all, we had SO many questions. We're the data nerds who cover the NAR Home Buyers and Sellers Profile Report every single year, so getting face time with the person behind all that research? It was kind of a big deal for us.   Dr. Yun has been at NAR since 2000 and stepped into the Chief Economist role in 2008 right in the middle of the foreclosure crisis. He's testified before Congress, appeared on C-SPAN, and was recognized by the Wall Street Journal for having one of the closest forecasts for 2024. Basically, if there's someone you want breaking down housing market trends for Realtors, it's him.   We cover a lot of ground in this one, from the housing shortage and what's actually being done about it, to the lock-in effect, affordability challenges for first-time buyers, capital gains tax reform, and what a "sweet spot" interest rate would even look like. Dr. Yun also shares something we weren't expecting, a really personal story about his family immigrating to the U.S. and how home ownership shaped his perspective on wealth and the American dream.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why the answer to "how's the market?" is always local — and how to explain that to clients The housing shortage by the numbers (hint: we're still millions of units short) Why the median age of first-time buyers hitting 40 is "the most depressing statistic" of last year The lock-in effect: who it really impacts and why it may be loosening Why 6% isn't actually a high rate historically but still feels impossible for today's buyers How home prices rising 50% since pre-COVID has changed the affordability conversation The capital gains tax exemption that hasn't been updated in 30 years (and why that matters for your sellers AND your investment properties) What the Housing for the 21st Century Act could actually do How investors releasing rental properties could help the first-time buyer shortage What we need to build annually to get out of the housing shortage Key Quotes & Takeaways: "Is it a good time to buy? That's not the right question. Do you want to build wealth over time or not?" Dr. Lawrence Yun "Your house was $60,000. Their rate is 6% AND the house is $400,000. It's not the same math." Alissa "Median age of the first-time buyer is now 40. That is the most depressing statistic of last year." Dr. Lawrence Yun "I had 24 showings and five offers in one day at $175K. The same week, a $500K listing could sit for 50 days. Same market. Totally different world." Katy "If you are listening to this podcast, you are already ahead." Dr. Lawrence Yun Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: NAR Home Buyers and Sellers Profile Report(2025 in episode 338) NAR Affordability Index NAR Existing Home Sales Statistics Housing for the 21st Century Act (bipartisan housing legislation) Ability to Repay Act (post-2008 mortgage reform legislation) Blue Chip Council (economic forecasting panel) Wall Street Journal Forecasting Survey Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University Hustle Humbly Community Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    39 min

  2. MAR 23

    346: Desperate Agent Do's and Don'ts

    Feeling a little desperate in your real estate business lately? You are not alone—and this episode is your mindset reset.   Katy and Alissa are diving into the behaviors that show up when agents feel pressure to make money… and how those "desperate" decisions can quietly damage your reputation, confidence, and long-term success.   From overpricing listings just to win them, to chasing every shiny lead source, to dropping your professional standards, this episode is your honest (and loving) wake-up call.   The truth? Acting like a desperate real estate agent doesn't attract more business; it repels it.   Instead, we're sharing what to do differently so you can protect your business, maintain your professionalism, and build a career you're actually proud of, even in a slow market.   Here's what we cover in this episode: What "desperate agent behavior" really looks like (and why it's so common right now) How overpricing a listing can hurt your reputation long-term Why saying "yes" to everything is actually hurting your business The danger of chasing shiny lead sources when you feel slow How dropping your standards can cost you future referrals Real examples of setting boundaries with sellers (and earning respect because of it) Why consistency beats constant rebranding or "next big thing" energy The difference between being flexible vs. losing your boundaries What to do instead when business feels slow or uncertain   If you've been feeling the pressure, questioning your business, or tempted to make decisions out of fear—this is the episode you need.   You don't need to be desperate. You need to be consistent, professional, and confident. Key Quotes & Takeaways "When you act like a desperate real estate agent, you're not gaining business; you're losing respect." Alissa "Confidence audits your business. Desperation just reacts." Katy "If you let your clients run your business, you're doing them a disservice." Alissa "You don't need balloons to sell a house; you need people walking through the door." Alissa "Referral-based business is a slow burn… but chasing shiny objects will burn you out." Katy Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 113 Be the Boss Email Templates 101 Agent Systems 101 FREE Database Template Hustle Humbly Community Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    39 min

  3. MAR 18

    345.5: BONUS: We Got Invited to NAR and Here's What Happened

    We got invited to NAR headquarters in Chicago for a small influencer summit and honestly? We thought the first email was fake and deleted it. 😂   But once we realized this was a real invitation, we packed our bags, flew out on Katy's birthday, and headed to the "mothership" to hear directly from NAR's leadership team about what has gone wrong, what they're trying to fix, and where they think the Realtor brand is headed next.   In this bonus episode, we're giving you the full download. No sugarcoating. No blind praise. Just our honest take on what we saw, what we heard, and what felt different this time.   We're chatting about the tiny guest list, the giant chandelier, the very fancy boardroom, and the leaders now trying to course correct after lawsuits, leadership failures, and a few rough years for the association.   We're also sharing what surprised us most, what gave us hope, and why we still think time will tell.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why we almost deleted the NAR invitation for good What it was like walking into NAR headquarters in Chicago How we ended up recording in NAR's podcast studio Our first impressions of CEO Nykia Wright and the new leadership team What NAR says it is doing to rebuild trust and professionalism Why local boards may be facing some major changes What we learned about NAR advocacy, lobbying, and where your dues are going The part of Lawrence Yun's presentation that really caught our attention Why the new consumer ad campaign actually impressed us What it felt like to be in the room as working Realtors still in the trenches Why we left feeling heard, hopeful, and still appropriately skeptical Our honest thoughts on whether NAR can really get this train back on the tracks Key Quotes & Takeaways Katy: "We want to be an advocate for NAR, but not a mouthpiece for NAR." Alissa: "Hustle Humbly is here to help bring professionalism back to the Realtor brand. That is essentially NAR's goal as well." Katy: "We're not here to sugarcoat it. We're just going to relay what happened and give you our thoughts." Alissa: "I feel optimistic about the people they have in place and how new they are." Katy: "We really needed to record this for posterity so we can come back and see if the train stayed on the tracks." Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: NAR consumer ad campaign: "Right by you" NAR shareable market graphics for agents Email Templates 101 Agent Systems 101 FREE Database Template Hustle Humbly Community Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    1h 3m

  4. MAR 16

    345: Real Estate Buyer Myths & Misconceptions

    There are a lot of opinions floating around about buying a house and, unfortunately, many of them are just plain wrong. In this episode, Katy and Alissa dive into some of the most common home buying myths they hear from buyers and break down what's actually true.   From the classic "you need 20% down" to the idea that new construction doesn't need an inspection, these myths can cause confusion, hesitation, and sometimes costly mistakes. The truth is that buying a home is full of nuance, and having the right information (and the right Realtor!) makes all the difference.   To make things interesting, Katy and Alissa review more than 30 common buyer misconceptions and secretly choose their personal top myths along the way. At the end, they compare notes to reveal the biggest misconceptions they think buyers still believe today.   If you're currently house hunting, planning to buy soon, or just want to understand the process better, this episode is packed with helpful clarity.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why you do NOT need 20% down to buy a home Why the highest offer doesn't always win The truth about inspections (especially new construction!) Why calling the number on the sign may not help you Why pre-approval is essential before touring homes The reality of interest rates and affordability The problem with waiting for the "perfect" house What really happens when deals fall apart Whether foreclosures are actually a good deal Why every buyer needs their own representation Key Quotes & Takeaways Katy: "No one gets the perfect house. Not even if they build it from scratch." Alissa: "The highest offer doesn't always win. Terms matter just as much as price." Katy: "Please don't call the number on the sign. You need someone representing you." Alissa: "You can't even start house hunting until you know what you're approved for." Katy: "A home inspection isn't a crystal ball—it's a snapshot of the house today." Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 149: The Forever Home Myth All products and free resources are located at hustlehumblypodcast.com. Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    51 min

  5. MAR 9

    344: Selling in a Softer Market After a Bidding War Era Purchase

    If you sold homes during 2020–2022, you likely helped buyers compete in bidding wars, escalate over asking, and stretch to win. Now? Some of those same clients are calling because they need to sell.   And the market is… softer.   In this episode, Katy and Alissa walk through what it really looks like when COVID-era buyers need to resell in a different market than they purchased in. From tight equity situations to emotional listing appointments, they're sharing honest stories, practical scripts, and how to protect your own mindset while delivering hard news.   This isn't about panic. It's about professionalism.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why today's "soft market" is not the 2008 crash How to handle sellers who are breaking even (or barely making money) What to say when the comps don't support their expectations Why condition matters even more when you're pushing price The danger of "just offering an allowance" How to walk sellers through worst-case scenarios using a net sheet When renting might be the better move How to avoid carrying your clients' emotional stress   If you're feeling that sinking-in-your-stomach feeling when running CMAs lately, this episode will help you reframe the situation, set expectations early, and guide your sellers with clarity and confidence. Key Quotes & Takeaways Katy: "Devastating news isn't breaking even. Devastating news is having to beg the bank to let you sell." Alissa: "You can care about your clients without carrying their stress inside your body." Katy: "If you're pushing the price above the comps, your condition has to be A-plus." Alissa: "I can't want this more than you do." Katy: "Are these the numbers you were expecting?" Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Seller Net Sheet + Buyer Cost Sheet: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/netsheet Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    55 min

  6. MAR 2

    343: The Mindset Shift You Need This Spring

    Spring hits… and suddenly everything feels loud. New listings. Awards. "Sold in one day!" posts. Agent tours. Realtor prom season. And before you know it, you're questioning everything. Why does everyone else look busier than me? Should I be doing more? Am I behind? In this episode, we're talking about the Realtor Comparison Trap and the mindset shift you need this spring to protect your confidence, your peace, and your professionalism. Spring is a naturally busy season in real estate. But it's also the season where comparison creeps in hard. Between awards ceremonies, fresh listings popping up daily, and social media highlight reels, it's easy to feel like you're either behind… or not doing enough. Here's what we cover in this episode: Why spring market noise can mess with your mindset Realtor prom season and the awards comparison spiral How to reframe other agents' success (community over competition) Preparing your systems before busy hits What NOT to add to your plate just because others are doing it A powerful mindset trick for driving past someone else's listing sign Cleaning up your social media algorithm to protect your peace How to post professionally without hurting the Realtor brand Why being present in your office can create unexpected opportunity A refreshing buyer story that proves timing and priorities matter   Truthfully, comparison is internal. If someone's marketing makes you spiral, that's your cue to check your mindset, not attack theirs.   This is your permission slip to: - Mute what doesn't serve you - Protect your boundaries - Focus on your systems - Stay in your lane - Celebrate other agents without shrinking yourself   The spring market doesn't require panic. It requires preparation. And a healthy mindset.   You're not behind. You're building. Key Quotes & Takeaways Katy: "Every sign that isn't mine means the market is moving. That's a good thing." Alissa: "If someone's marketing messes with your mindset, that's your cue to look inward." Katy: "We don't need to throw away great to try out good." Katy: "Busy doesn't always mean better. Prepared is better." Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 33 – Preparing for Busy Episode 17 – What to Do When You're New or Slow Episode 331 – A Realtor Leaves Her Phone for a Week Email Templates 101 Agent Systems 101 FREE Database Template Hustle Humbly Community Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

    39 min

  7. FEB 23

    342: How to Win the Listing Early + Listing Prep Timeline for Sellers

    If you've ever had a seller say, "We're probably about a year out… but can you come tell us what to do?" — this episode is for you.   Today we're talking about how to win the listing early without wasting your time, burning yourself out, or giving away all your value. Because here's the truth: the agent who shows up first often wins.   But how early is too early? And what should a listing prep timeline for sellers actually look like?   We break down the mindset shift, the boundaries, and the strategy behind pre-listing appointments — especially when they're not ready yet.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why the highest-performing agents go on pre-listing visits early The realistic listing prep timeline for sellers (hint: it's longer than they think) What sellers should NOT do too far in advance (step away from the mulch) Interior prep vs. exterior timing How to avoid losing listings after giving staging advice When to use a checklist — and when to show up in person Protecting your time with commitment letters or pre-market agreements What to do when they choose another agent after you've done the work Real-life stories of listings lost… and listings rewarded   We also share a powerful reminder: sometimes helping someone prep their home changes more than just their sale price.   And don't forget — we're collecting TOASTS! If you're a buyer, seller, Realtor, or client who wants to celebrate a Realtor who made a difference, send your toast to: team@hustlehumblypodcast.com Key Quotes & Takeaways "The agent who shows up first is usually the one who wins." – Katy "Phase one of listing prep is phase one of moving." – Alissa "You're not a free checklist. You're a service-based business." – Katy "Sometimes the sooner you get in the house, the better, even if they're a year out." – Alissa "There's no 100% protection in real estate… but there is real estate karma." – Katy Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Hustle Humbly Staging Prep Checklist (Freebie) Pre-Listing Appointment Email Template(included in Email Templates 101) Pre-Market / Commitment Agreement (Broker-specific form) Vendor List (painters, storage units, junk haulers, etc.) Episode 143: Working with Sellers: Pre-Listing Prep Episode 276: How Do You Stage a House? A Guide for Consumers Epidsode 45: The Listing Interview Episode 189: Listing Photos Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly   Music:   "Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/   "The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life   "Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one

    46 min

  8. FEB 16

    341: Clean Contracts: How to Avoid Closing Day Surprises

    We've talked about loopholes and contract problems before, but avoiding the messiness of real estate is one of those topics you can never cover too many times.   In this episode, we're talking about all the tiny contract decisions that don't feel like a big deal until suddenly they are. Missing initials. Blank lines. Verbal promises. Appliances that magically disappear. Furniture negotiations that never end. You know the ones.   This conversation was sparked by a broker who reached out to us after stepping into a compliance role and realizing just how messy agents can get with paperwork. From there, we went deep into why clean contracts matter, how verbal agreements create risk, and why adding "just one more thing" to a purchase agreement can blow up an otherwise smooth deal.   This episode is part pep talk, part cautionary tale, and part reminder that professionalism protects everyone involved.   Here's what we cover in this episode: Why avoiding the messiness of real estate starts with treating paperwork like a legal document (because it is) How missing initials, blanks, and timestamps can create real liability Why verbal agreements are only good for setting expectations, not protecting deals The risks of "knowledge only" conversations during due diligence Appliances, furniture, grills, boats, and why movables make contracts messy fast How lenders and appraisers view non-real-estate items in contracts Why clean offers are often the strongest offers A reminder that it's not a problem until it's a problem Key Quotes & Takeaways Alissa: "It's not a problem until it's a problem. And then it's a big problem." Katy: "The more things you add to a contract, the more things can go wrong." Alissa: "Verbal agreements are only good for setting expectations, not protecting deals." Katy: "Clean offers win. Every single time." Alissa: "Professionalism isn't about being perfect. It's about being careful." Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 240: Loopholes in Real Estate Email Templates 101 FREE Database Template Want to toast someone on the show? Send us a voice or video message with your name, who you're toasting, and why! Email it to team@hustlehumblypodcast.com. Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly   Music:   "Straight A's" by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/   "The Good Life" by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life   "Be The One" by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one

    56 min
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Hosts & Guests

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out of 5
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About

Join us for Hustle Humbly where we hope you will build the confidence to find your voice and your way to a successful real estate business and beyond. Listen in as Alissa & Katy, two top producing Realtors, talk about fostering community over competition while navigating the often times cutthroat real estate industry. With over 1000 homes sold between them and 13 and 19 years each in the business, they have seen it first hand. Deep dive into conversations and interviews about mindset and best practices with real life stories mixed in. The goal of Hustle Humbly is to reach out and encourage Realtors and business people alike to stop comparing themselves and start embracing their own strengths.

Information

  • Creator
    Alissa Jenkins & Katy Caldwell
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    358
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Hustle Humbly Podcast

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