Episodes

  • Kelani Blackwell: Empowering Women and Minorities in Commercial Real Estate
    Jul 7 2024

    Welcome to the Troy Talks Podcast episode #75!

    In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Kelani Blackwell, a trailblazing consultant and advocate in the commercial real estate industry.

    Kelani has made significant strides from her start in residential real estate to becoming a strong voice for diversity, equity, and inclusion in commercial spaces at CBRE.


    Today, she will share her firsthand experiences of the challenges faced by minority brokers and the significant disparity in diversity within commercial real estate.

    We'll delve into how she transitioned her career, her motivational journey in establishing the "Women in Real Estate" club on Clubhouse, and how this platform has supported over 70,000 women by fostering a sisterhood of professional growth and empowerment.


    Kelani also highlights the potential for bringing commercial real estate opportunities to underserved communities and discusses her long-term vision, including the launch of an investment fund and the upcoming Wirecon conference in 2024.

    Join us as Kelani shares invaluable insights and her unique perspective on transforming the landscape of commercial real estate while creating impactful community connections


    Topics covered:

    - Kelani's background in real estate beginning with her mother's influence as a realtor and loan officer.

    - Transition from a corporate job to entering the real estate industry, starting in a small fix-and-flip operation, and evolving into a full-service boutique brokerage.

    - Moving to a significant role at CBRE focusing on multifamily investment property sales.

    **Challenges in Commercial Real Estate**

    - Discussion on the transition from residential to commercial real estate including the differences in emotional engagement and the complexities of commercial deals.

    - The broader scope of commercial real estate, including various asset classes and brokerage types.

    - The challenge of diversity in commercial real estate, particularly the lack of minority brokers in producer roles versus support roles.

    - The difficulties faced by minorities in building a sustainable income and book of business within commercial real estate.

    **Creation and Impact of Women in Real Estate Club on Clubhouse**


    Connect with Kelani Blackwell

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelanib/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelanib?igsh=MWlrdHoyM3FpM3Jvdw==


    Like, share and review


    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    40 mins
  • Breaking Barriers: Afsha Butt's Journey as a Woman of Color in Finance
    Feb 10 2024
    Afsha Butt, a woman of color in the male-dominated finance industry, shares her incredible journey on the Troy Talks podcast. From overcoming prejudice to forming partnerships and educating young professionals, Afsha's story will leave you inspired and wanting to learn more. But just when everything seems to be going well, a shocking turn of events leaves Afsha in a difficult situation. What will she do next? Don't miss this gripping episode. My special guest is Afsha Butt Afsha Butt is a trailblazing CEO and founder of Wealthverse, a financial technology company. With a distinguished record in the financial services sector, she is an award-winning consultant and wealth strategist. Afsha is passionate about empowering established professionals to unlock their untapped financial potential through intelligent money management and mindset development. As a woman of color in the finance industry, Afsha has overcome numerous challenges and has become a shining example of success. Her expertise and unbiased approach to investing have earned her recognition and respect in the industry. With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Afsha is dedicated to helping women of color navigate the obstacles they may face and thrive in their finance careers. I realized, I'm not just doing this to learn what they did. I'm also doing this to learn what I don't want to do and what I'm going to do differently. - Afsha Butt In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insights from Afsha Butt's career journey and discover the steps she took to succeed in the finance industry. Learn about the specific challenges faced by women in finance and discover strategies to overcome them. Understand the importance of financial education for young professionals and learn how it can set you up for success in your career. Discover practical strategies for overcoming prejudice in the workplace and creating a more inclusive environment. Gain valuable tips and insights on building a successful financial planning company and take your career to the next level. Challenges Faced by Women in FinanceAs a woman and a minority, Afsha Butt had to navigate a largely male-dominated financial industry. Nevertheless, despite the challenges and occasional prejudice she faced, her determination allowed her to overachieve and establish herself as an eminent financial advisor. Butt's story highlights the struggles women in finance face, but also the immense potential and resilience that can lead to success against all odds. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Wealthverse's website at www.wealthverse.ca to learn more about their financial technology solutions and services. Explore the range of intelligent money management tools offered by Wealthverse to optimize your financial potential and bridge the gap between your current possessions and desired lifestyle. Book a consultation with Afsha Butt to receive personalized guidance and expertise in wealth management, investing, and profile mindset development. Connect with Afsha Butt on LinkedIn to expand your professional network and stay connected with her latest updates and industry insights. Share this podcast episode and Afsha Butt's work with your friends, family, and colleagues to help spread awareness about the importance of financial literacy and wealth management. Connect with Afsha Butt:  Website: Wealthverse.ca Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afsha-butt/ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/afshaaofficial/?hl=en Connect with Troy Holt here:  Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    31 mins
  • Unlocking Career Resilience: Strategies for Success with Dr. Helen Ofosu
    Oct 29 2023

    If you're feeling the frustration of constantly putting in extra hours, sacrificing your personal life, and still not getting the promotions or recognition you deserve, then you are not alone! Many professionals find themselves stuck in this cycle, wondering why their hard work isn't paying off.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Enhance your career resilience by learning effective strategies to bounce back from setbacks and challenges in the workplace.

    • Build a supportive environment at work by discovering practical tips to foster teamwork, collaboration, and positive communication.

    • Cultivate a growth mindset to navigate career setbacks and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.

    • Unlock the power of networking and building relationships to expand your professional network and create new opportunities for career advancement.

    • Prioritize self-care and well-being in your careers with actionable strategies to maintain a healthy work-life balance and enhance overall job satisfaction.

    My special guest is Helen Ofosu

    Dr. Helen Ofosu is an expert in industrial and organizational psychology with over 20 years of experience in the field. As a career and executive coach, she specializes in assessing and developing leadership skills, as well as navigating workplace challenges such as bullying, harassment, equity, diversity, and inclusion.


    Dr. Helen Ofosu founded the I O Advisory Services in 2012, offering executive and career coaching, HR consulting, and speaking engagements. Her expertise in psychology and business allows her to provide practical insights and strategies for professionals seeking to enhance their career resilience and navigate workplace challenges.


    With her upcoming book, "How to Be Resilient in Your Career: Facing Up to Barriers at Work," Dr. Helen Ofosu continues to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and thrive in their professional lives.


    Connect with Dr. Helen here: 

    Website: https://theresilientcareer.com/

    Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenofosu/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IOAdvisoryServices/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ioadvisory

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drheleno_ca/



    Connect with Troy Holt here: 

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast.


    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    41 mins
  • Diversity in Business Ownership: Deb Curtis on SBA Loans for Women and Minorities
    Sep 17 2023

    Have you ever heard these myths about Small Business Administration (SBA) loans for established businesses?

    Myth 1: SBA loans are only for startups.

    Myth 2: SBA loans are too complicated and time-consuming to apply for. Myth 3: SBA loans are only for certain types of businesses.

    In this episode, our guest, Deb Curtis, will debunk these myths and share the truth about SBA loans for women and minority small business owners.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Uncover hidden aspects of gender bias in the finance industry.

    • Appreciate the triumph of tenacity and hands-on experience over formal education.

    • Gain insights into how SBA loans can foster the growth of established businesses.

    • Learn the significant role of diversity and inclusion in successful business ownership.

    • Discover the power of self-belief and the potential in exploring diverse opportunities.

    My special guest is Deb Curtis

    Rising from humble beginnings, Deb Curtis is a beacon of inspiration to any budding entrepreneur.

    She is the founder of Curtis Small Business Finance Solutions, where she provides specialized consultancy in business ownership bank finance transactions.

    As a woman in a male-dominated sector, Deb made a commendable stride, becoming a trailblazer for countless women in corporate settings.

    She wears her relentless grit alongside her professional acumen gracefully, indicating that professional success is not solely tied to academic degrees.


    Connect with Deb here: 

    Website: https://www.debcurtis.com

    Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-curtis-190534b/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debjojocurtis/


    Connect with Troy Holt here: 

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

    Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast.


    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    38 mins
  • Unveiling the Secrets: Tina Houchins on Increasing Homeownership in Underserved Communities
    Sep 5 2023
    Unveiling the Secrets: Tina Houchins on Increasing Homeownership in Underserved Communities If you're feeling frustrated and helpless because your efforts to increase homeownership rates in underserved communities are falling short, then you are not alone! Despite your best intentions, offering traditional mortgage products and outreach programs may not be enough to bridge the homeownership gap. Instead, potential buyers from marginalized racial and ethnic groups face systemic barriers such as discriminatory lending practices, lack of affordable housing options, and limited access to resources and information. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the essential role financial literacy plays specifically in the military, and how mastering it can lead to better fiscal decisions. Become equipped with practical tips to bolster your credit score and open doors to financial possibilities. Embark on a journey of learning how to reclaim homeownership following financial missteps like bankruptcy or foreclosure. Confront the disparities in homeownership across different racial and ethnic groups and learn why these barriers exist. Demystify the home buying process by comprehending the roles of mortgage loan officers and realtors in finding and financing your dream home. My special guest is Tina Houchins Today’s guest is Tina Houchins, an accomplished Air Force veteran who, after her retirement, engaged in nurturing financial literacy. Always being drawn to service, Tina turned her focus on financial education, recognizing it as a critical aspect of individual and community growth. Tina now heads the Houchin Financial Group where she plays a pivotal role in creating mortgage strategies that synchronize with the specific circumstances of her clientele. Her broad experience and genuine aspiration to help have enabled her to navigate clients through the mortgage process effectively and efficiently. Key Takeaways Understand why financial literacy is a must-have skill set for anyone involved in military life. Obtain concrete strategies to improve your credit score and thereby expand your financial horizons. Thrive through financial resilience by learning how to regain homeownership post-bankruptcy or foreclosure. Delve into the realities of homeownership disparities among racial and ethnic groups, and what can be done to bridge the gap. Get behind the scenes of the homebuying process by discerning the roles of mortgage loan officers and realtors, the key players in realizing your homeownership goals. Connect with Tina here: Website: ⁠https://thehomeownerspath.com/registration-path-to-homeownership-5096?fbclid=IwAR2XnVm8xdmxd6Xyjb6srfKtK_pISn1Fo2QZU3KZNKdRMJu9dkaucYs2jgU Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/tinahouchinsofficial/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/tina.houchins.3 Connect with Troy Holt here: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    36 mins
  • Increase Your Sales Success with the E-A-R-N Approach by Joe Pallo
    Aug 13 2023

    In the world of sales, whoever is talking is buying. Discover the power of active listening and emotional engagement with sales expert Joe Pallo. But what will happen when the main character finds themselves in a sales pitch where they can't get a word in? Stay tuned to find out.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Understand the paramount role of emotions in driving sales.

    • Equip yourself with the right questions to stir up emotional ties.

    • Grasp the essence of diagnosing client needs before unveiling your sales pitch.

    • Recognize the significance of active listening in turning the sales conversation in your favor.

    • Gain the skills to pave the way for the progression of the sales process.

    My special guest is Joe Pallo

    From financial services to agriculture, Joe Pallo's sales expertise has led him to the discovery of a unique universal truth that's seen him excel across industries. With over a million dollars in sales under his belt, Joe has proven that emotional engagement is as pivotal to sales success as logical reasoning. Yet, his most significant achievement is the coaching and mentoring he provides. His commitment to sharing his knowledge has enabled countless professionals to achieve success and top producer status.


    Grab his new book: How To Sell Nothing: The Logical Way To Make The Emotional Sale $0.99 Kindle version https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CC73N5X8


    How To Sell Nothing appeared on 11 Amazon best seller lists, coming in at #1 in the categories of Small Business Sales & Selling, Sales Techniques, and Sales & Selling presentations. It also landed in the top 5 in Sales & Selling, Business Marketing & Sales, Business Development & Entrepreneurship, and Communication Skills. Imagine my surprise at seeing MY book be ranked #25 on the bestseller list under the top-level category of Business & Money!!


    Connect with Joe here: Website: https://www.sellnothing.co/ Linked: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-pallo-00464989/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoePalloSellNothingLLC


    Connect with Troy Holt here: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast.


    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    36 mins
  • The Art of Empathy: How Personal Challenges Foster Deeper Connections - Tyler Pigott
    Aug 6 2023
    Tyler Pigott is a people lover, a problem solver, and an ardent digital marketer. His own characterization as a 'closet introvert', someone who draws inspiration both from his own solitude and from invigorating group interactions, makes him quite a unique personality. This multifaceted entrepreneur has spent two decades honing his uncanny ability to creatively solve complex problems, all while being motivated by a futuristic vision. This apart, he’s a huge cycling enthusiast and has a soft spot for golden retrievers. Finally, for Pigott, values come before everything else: he cherishes his faith above all. Experience the transformative journey of Tyler Pigott, a man who thrives on serving and connecting with others. From his introverted nature to his energizing presence, Tyler's story takes an unexpected twist. As his love for biking evolves from a simple escape to a full-blown obsession, his passion intertwines with his innate storytelling abilities. Join us as we delve into Tyler's multi-faceted journey, filled with personal growth, professional success, and the power of embracing the unexpected. Uncover the surprising connection between personal experiences and the profound impact they have on serving and connecting with people. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the powerful impact of empathy and comprehension on successful support and guidance. Experience the transformative effect of channeling personal experiences into serving and creating bonds with people. Recognize the importance of validating others' lives and experiences, even when divergent from our perspective. Learn how to maneuver personal emotions for effective and empathetic communication. Brush up on the latest trends in marketing and gain a sneak peek on what the future might hold. Connect with Tyler here: Website: https://www.lonefircreative.com/ Linked: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerpigott/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tylerpigott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tylerpigott Connect with Troy Holt here: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/https://www.twitter.com/https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    40 mins
  • God's Omnipresence in Times of Trouble: Perceiving His Unseen Hand in Adversity
    Jul 16 2023

    On this episode of Troy Holt, we have a captivating interview with Johnathan K Drayton. Our discussion revolves around the power of God in controlling nature and orchestrating events for a greater purpose. We delve into biblical stories, such as Joseph's time in jail and Gideon's encounters with signs and guidance from God.

    Tune in to hear about the importance of trust in the Lord during difficult circumstances and the role of processes in revealing God's involvement in the details.

    Our conversation also touches on the concept of God's presence in times of trouble and the permanent security Christians have in their salvation. Join us as we explore the journey of building a relationship with God, the transformative power of following Christ, and the significance of faith.

    We also dive into the complexities of understanding and interpreting scripture in the 21st century. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode filled with profound insights and perspectives on faith, trust, and the relevance of ancient texts.


    Some of things that we discussed:


    - God's control over nature and His ability to do extraordinary things

    - Joseph and his brothers as an example of God's orchestration for a greater purpose

    - Trusting in the Lord during difficult circumstances

    - Recognizing God's involvement in the details through processes

    - The story of Gideon as another example of God's signs and guidance

    - God's presence in times of trouble


    Connect with Johnathan:

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793963

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetruthoftmis/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/448140560551835/?ref=share

    • Connect with Troy Holt here:

      • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:///www.troyholt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
      • LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/troydholt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

      • Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/https://www.twitter.com/https://twitter.com/TroyTalksMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

      • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063546310389⁠⁠⁠⁠


        Like, subscribe, download, and give a review of the Troy Talks podcast.








    • --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/troy-holt/support
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    49 mins