Since this week is Thanksgiving, we want to drop an episode expressing our sincere gratitude to our Affiliate Members. In this episode, we sit down with Kimberly Tate, ECAR’s Affiliate & Events Coordinator, to shine a spotlight on the heartbeat of our association -- our Affiliate Members. Kim shares why ECAR truly couldn’t do what we do without their support, expertise, and partnership.

You’ll hear her heartfelt appreciation for the businesses that show up for our REALTORS®, our events, and our community all year long, plus a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026 -- from new opportunities to get involved to exciting ways affiliates will be highlighted and celebrated.

If you’re an affiliate, this episode is our love letter to you. And if you’re a member, it’s your reminder to connect with the people who help make ECAR stronger every day.

In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, Maria and Chad sit down to recap their recent trip to NAR NXT in Houston, Texas. From high-impact sessions to inspiring conversations, they break down the most valuable insights gathered from real estate leaders across the country.

Tune in as they share:

• Top takeaways from the sessions they attended
• Fresh ideas and practical strategies they’re excited to bring back to ECAR
• Emerging trends shaping the future of real estate
• And of course… a little bit about the fun they had exploring Houston along the way

Whether you attended NAR NXT yourself or want to catch up on the highlights, this episode is packed with perspective, energy, and a look at what's next for the Emerald Coast.

In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, hosts Chad Nelson and President Maria Howell sit down with DeeDee Carr and Wanda Jackson to dive into the inspiring work of the Women’s Council of Realtors. From leadership development and professional growth to building lasting connections across the Emerald Coast, DeeDee and Wanda share their passion for empowering women in real estate.

Tune in for insights, laughter, and a look at how the Women’s Council is shaping the future of the industry—one strong relationship at a time.

This week, Co-Hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with the dynamic duo Shelby Baker and Nick Brown to chat all things Professional Development!

From wrapping up the year to peeking ahead at what’s in store for 2026, the crew dives into how education and career growth are evolving along the Emerald Coast. Expect laughs, insights, and a few “aha!” moments as we mix inspiration with a splash of education.

Tune in, grab your favorite beach chair, and get ready to level up -- Emerald Coast style! ☀️🌴

Inside ECAR’s Leadership Development Program

In this episode, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with Brandy Brown and Jason Miller for a lively and insightful conversation about ECAR’s Leadership Development Program (LDP) and what leadership really means at ECAR.

From the origins and goals of LDP to personal stories of growth and lessons learned along the way, this episode dives deep into how ECAR is helping team members take their careers — and leadership skills — to the next level. Whether you’re part of ECAR or just passionate about professional development, this one’s full of inspiration, laughter, and leadership wisdom.

Tune in and discover how you can lead the way forward.

In this episode, we’re joined by Melissa Garza, ECAR’s Government Affairs Director, for an inside look at how public policy and real estate intersect. Melissa shares how ECAR advocates for REALTORS® and property owners at the local, state, and national levels — ensuring that laws and regulations support a strong, fair housing market.

From legislative updates to the importance of member involvement, Melissa breaks down the key issues shaping the future of real estate and highlights how every REALTOR® can play a role in protecting private property rights and promoting smart growth in our communities.

If you’ve ever wondered how advocacy impacts your business or how to make your voice heard, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Dana Topel, ECAR’s Property Management Director, to explore the ins and outs of property management in today’s market. Dana shares her insights on the challenges property managers face, how ECAR supports its members in navigating complex regulations, and the keys to building strong relationships between owners, tenants, and management teams.

Whether you’re a seasoned real estate professional, a new property manager, or simply curious about how the industry is evolving, this conversation offers practical advice, local perspective, and a behind-the-scenes look at what keeps ECAR’s property management network strong.

Tune in and learn how Dana and her team are helping raise the bar for professionalism and service across the region.

In this episode, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with Chris Wooten, ECAR’s Commercial Director, for a deep dive into the world of commercial real estate. They break down the key differences between traditional residential real estate and the commercial side of the industry, highlighting what makes each unique. Chris also shares insights on how to successfully navigate the Emerald Coast’s distinctive market, from opportunities to challenges, and why this region is unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re a seasoned agent, an investor, or just curious about the commercial real estate landscape, this conversation will give you valuable perspective on thriving in one of Florida’s most dynamic markets.