In this powerful episode of the John Kitchens Coach Podcast, John Kitchens and Joel Perso break down what it truly means to make the leap from Agent to CEO. From Gary Vee’s prediction that real empires are being built right now to the uncomfortable truth about lifestyle businesses, they unpack the mindset, strategy, and habits required to not just survive—but thrive—in today’s shifting real estate market.

This conversation dives into the power of commitment, the danger of chasing “status” over freedom, and how building intentional systems can position you to withstand downturns and capitalize on opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or leading a growing team, this is a no-fluff masterclass on business evolution, discipline, and creating the freedom you’re truly chasing.

Agent to CEO Mindset

• Why success starts with showing up and treating real estate like a job

• The difference between being interested, committed, and obsessed

• Why mindset always comes first when scaling

Building for Freedom, Not Status

• The difference between a lifestyle business and a scalable asset

• Why chasing freedom beats chasing status every time

• The three critical elements to escape production

Systems, AI & Working Yourself Out of a Job

• How to systematically replace yourself in every role with VAs, AI, and hires

• Why organic social media is the #1 priority for agents right now

• How to use AI as a thought partner—not a thought leader

The Perfect Day & The Freedom Number

• The “Perfect Day 2.0” exercise and how it shapes your goals

• How to calculate your freedom number and reverse-engineer to hit it

• Why intentionality and discipline are the ultimate competitive advantage

Leadership & Vision

• Why the #1 thing people look for in leaders is hope

• How to create clarity and inspire people to buy into your vision

• Why discipline equals freedom in both business and life

• Agent to CEO 2024 – Sept. 24–25 in Cleveland → AgentToCEOCE.com

• Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

• The AI-Driven Leader by Jeff Wood

• StoryBrand by Donald Miller

• The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale

Becoming a CEO isn’t about working less—it’s about working smarter, building systems, and chasing freedom, not status. As John Kitchens reminds us:

“It’s never about the goal—it’s about how much pain you’re willing to withstand to get there.”

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If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies from the top minds. See you next time! 🔥