In this annual 2026 Roundup episode, hosts Kimberly Mackey and Carol Morgan bring together contributors from ECI/Lasso CRM’s Sales, Marketing, and Operations blogs to provide honest, practical guidance builders can use now. Featuring (in order of presentation): Erica Lockwood (Joseph Chris Partners) Brittany Horner (Mitchell Homes) Dan Bridenstine (Group Two) Heidi Schroeder (ECI Lasso CRM) Leah Fellows (Blue Gypsy, Inc.) Jake Scherrer (audience town) Ralph Williams (Sales Solve Everything) Carol Morgan (Denim Marketing) Kimberly Mackey (New Homes Solutions) Topics include: leadership development, buyer psychology, AI search behavior, intentional coaching, OSC evolution, hyperlocal data, sales momentum, influencer strategy, and restoring buyer confidence. If you want to walk into 2026 with clarity, direction, and confidence, this is the episode you can’t miss.

With extreme weather events, rising insurance premiums, and widespread natural disasters, buyers are asking new questions—and the homebuilding industry must be ready with better answers. In this episode of Sales & Marketing Power Hour, hosts Carol Morgan and Kimberly Mackey are joined by industry experts Randy Noel (Reve Inc., former NAHB Chair), Mackenzie Payne (NAHB Staff Counsel), and Donna Knatz Barrett (Charlotte-DeSoto BIA) to explore how builders and sales teams can confidently address climate-related objections. The panel unpacks how evolving building codes, improved construction techniques, and stronger materials are dramatically increasing home resilience. From peel-and-stick roof membranes and sealed deck joints to elevated foundations under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, you’ll learn how modern homes are designed to withstand today’s risks far better than aging resale inventory. The conversation also demystifies insurance challenges—replacement cost vs. actual cash value, how named storms restrict new policies, rebuild requirements after major damage, and why newer homes often qualify for better coverage and lower premiums. Regional risk trends from across the country highlight how climate impacts vary—from California wildfires and drought to shifting tornado patterns in the Southeast and flood-related debris slides in the Carolinas. Despite these challenges, the panel makes a compelling case for the new-home advantage: updated codes, better energy efficiency, modern materials, warranties, and easier insurability. Listeners will learn: How to explain risk, resilience, and insurance in clear, buyer-friendly terms Why new homes offer superior protection and long-term value How to educate teams and buyers using real examples and trusted resources A proven six-step method for handling objections with empathy and accuracy How proactive communication reduces fear, builds trust, and protects the buying experience For builders, sales advisors, marketers, and general real estate agents navigating climate-sensitive markets, this episode provides practical language, real-world examples, and actionable strategies to guide buyers with confidence. Climate risk is rising—but with education, transparency, and strong communication, the dream of homeownership is still well within reach.

As AI tools become more prevalent, real estate and homebuilding professionals face a new challenge: how do you stay authentic while staying visible? In this episode of Sales and Marketing Power Hour, hosts Carol Morgan and Kimberly Mackey sit down with industry leaders Jaime Godwin of Kolter Homes and Kaitlyn Fogle of French Brothers Homes to explore how blogging and vlogging can drive engagement, build credibility, and generate leads—even in an AI-saturated landscape. Kimberly shares how consistent blogging helped her launch and differentiate her brand, proving that authentic content still cuts through the noise. Carol breaks down practical strategies for creating relevant, search-friendly blogs that boost visibility and authority. Jaime offers insights into crafting targeted messages for specific buyer segments, and Kaitlyn shows how genuine, smartphone-shot videos can build trust faster than polished production. Listeners will learn: Why AI can support—but never replace—the human voice in content How consistency in blogging boosts visibility and engagement Why authenticity matters more than perfection in video How tailoring content to buyer personas increases conversions Why blogging shouldn’t be limited to buyers—community content matters, too If you’re looking to strengthen your content strategy and stay ahead of industry trends, this episode is packed with actionable ideas you can implement today.

In a market where waiting means losing, today’s top sales teams are creating their own momentum. In this episode of Sales and Marketing Power Hour, hosts Carol Morgan and Kimberly Mackey explore what it really takes to shift from reactive selling to proactive lead generation. Featuring insights from Mollie Elkman of Group II and Naomi Wright Bellamy of Stevens Fine Homes, this conversation tackles the new expectations for sales advisors: personal branding, content creation, community engagement, targeted digital ads, and authentic storytelling that connects with buyers long before they walk into a model. If you want predictable, profitable sales—not someday, but now—this episode delivers practical strategies you can put into action immediately.