Panels, Parties, and Purpose

Panels, Parties, and Purpose

Author: Rob Hahn and Greg Robertson August 5, 2026 Duration: 55:40

The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player!

Overview

Rob and Greg recap their time at Inman San Diego — the first Inman keynote without Brad Inman on stage, new CEO Tom Bohn's mixed reception, and Greg's fan encounter with his own book. From there they dig into a bigger debate: what's the actual purpose of real estate conferences, whether panels count as "education," and how MLS Reset and other events are trying to carve out a clearer mission.

Key Takeaways

  • Greg's second edition of "The Art of the CMA" is out; he's doing speaking engagements and bulk book buys tied to gigs
  • This was the first Inman keynote Brad Inman didn't give himself, following the company sale
  • New CEO Tom Bond's keynote got mixed reviews from attendees
  • Inman has shifted toward more agent/broker-centric content and away from organized real estate coverage
  • Complaint of the episode: Inman San Diego had no real central lobby bar
  • Rob argues most real estate conferences (outside NAR events) lack a clear purpose or mission
  • NAR Midyear and Annual are "working conferences" with real votes and lobbying, unlike most others
  • Brand conferences (like Keller Williams' family reunion) succeed because their purpose is obvious
  • T3 Summit, Gathering of Eagles, and RISMedia events each target a specific tier of attendee for marketing/networking purposes
  • MLS Reset traces its roots back to the Clarity Conference and the MLS executive workshop model
  • Rob and Greg disagree on whether panel discussions are ever educational
  • Greg pushes back, arguing conferences can also be valuable as a source of inspiration and storytelling
  • Rob's pitch for an ideal conference: two content sessions total, everything else built around networking and an open bar

 

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Industry Relations is a weekly conversation hosted by Rob Hahn, also known as The Notorious ROB, and Greg Robertson. It operates at a unique crossroads, examining where the business of real estate collides with and is reshaped by new technology. This isn't a surface-level tech review; the discussion comes from an insider's perspective, built on years of direct experience within the field. Each episode delves into the practical implications of software platforms, shifting market data, and emerging business models that are actively changing how properties are bought, sold, and managed. The hosts analyze trends, debate strategies, and often challenge conventional wisdom, providing a nuanced look at the forces driving change. Listening to this podcast offers a deeper understanding of the operational and entrepreneurial challenges faced by professionals navigating this evolving landscape. You'll hear specific case studies, evaluations of new tools, and forward-looking predictions about what's next for the industry. The tone is direct and informed, reflecting the hosts' deep background, making it essential for anyone invested in the future of real estate as a business. Tune in for thoughtful, weekly analysis that goes beyond the headlines.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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