Success Behind The Numbers
Explore the strategies, challenges, and stories behind New York’s most successful business leaders in Success Behind the Numbers. Hosted by Rich Amato, the Operating Principal of 7 Keller Williams market centers with over 2,000 agents, this podcast brings you candid conversations with real estate agents, team leaders, KW leadership, and a variety of business owners. Discover what it takes to build and sustain high-performing teams, scale businesses, and make a lasting impact. Whether you're in real estate or any field where growth matters, join us for insights that reveal the success behind the numbers.
Success Behind The Numbers
Why Betting on Yourself Is the Ultimate Real Estate Strategy #22
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In Episode 22 of The Success Behind The Numbers, I’m joined by Jay Marku—entrepreneur, immigrant, broker, and master of reinvention—a powerful example of what it means to bet on yourself. 🎙️🏙️
From his roots in Albania to navigating life in New York with 20+ different jobs before ever closing a deal, Jay’s journey is all about resilience, grit, and a long-term vision that’s as raw and real as it gets.
We talk about what it takes to succeed in tough markets, how to lead a rental-driven team, the power of mentorship, and what it really means to build something that lasts. Jay also shares how he rebuilt stronger after a move to LA—and why returning to NYC under the KW Core umbrella was the best decision for his business and his family.
Timestamps:
0:00 – From Albania to NYC: Jay’s Early Hustle
5:10 – The Restaurant Grind & Real Estate Breakthrough
10:20 – Learning the Business Without a License
17:45 – Building DJ Real Estate in Astoria
24:30 – Lessons from the LA Market & KW Leadership
30:50 – Why Relationships Are Still His Secret Weapon
36:00 – What’s Next for 2025 and Beyond
Follow Rich:
📲 Instagram: @richamato_kwcore
📧 Facebook: Richard Amato Keller Williams Core
Follow Jay:
📧 LinkedIn: Jay Marku
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