#767: The Rise of Industry Voices: Why CLIMBR & Industry Speaks Matter Now with Kendall Bonner

Episode Overview In this powerful episode, John Kitchens sits down with industry powerhouse Kendall Bonner to talk about building true authority in real estate. From launching the CLIMBR Community to creating the Industry Speaks Academy, Kendall breaks down how agents can elevate from local operator to industry voice. They dive deep into personal branding, performance credibility, referral credibility, AI leverage, and why now is the time to stop playing small. If you've ever thought about growing beyond transactions — into influence, impact, and scale — this episode is your blueprint. Because the future belongs to those who learn, unlearn, and relearn. Key Topics Covered The Climber Community: Raising the Industry Standard Why today's real estate industry is drowning in noise The shift from information economy to trust economy How AI is accelerating both opportunity and skill gaps Why agents must look outside the industry for innovation Building a brand-agnostic, global community focused on growth Kendall explains how Climber Community was born from a mastermind moment — and why it exists to help agents adapt faster than the market changes. The Trust Crisis in Real Estate Most transparent time in history — yet least trusting AI-generated content and credibility challenges Why sales skepticism is at an all-time high The importance of leading with transparency In a world where consumers question everything, trust becomes your greatest differentiator. Personal Brand vs. Industry Brand Kendall breaks down the difference between: Building a scalable personal brand Elevating into an industry-level voice Diversifying marketing beyond traditional lead gen Structuring your business for scale using AI Her advice: Before you grow louder, grow more organized. The Credibility Gap: Why Most Speakers Never Break Through Kendall introduces her three-level credibility framework from the Industry Speaks Academy: Street Credibility You must have real experience and expertise. No shortcuts. Performance Credibility You must put in reps. Small rooms → Mid-size rooms → Large stages. One speech is not enough. Referral Credibility Event organizers need signals: Professional speaker assets Stage footage (not podcasts) Referrals from trusted sources Most aspiring speakers skip steps 2 and 3 — and never understand why opportunities stall. Why Speaking Changes Everything Being on stage: Opens rooms you'd never otherwise enter Puts you face-to-face with decision makers Expands your influence beyond production Elevates your perceived authority instantly Kendall shares how stages transformed her career — connecting her with CEOs, brand leaders, and national organizations. AI as Your Strategic Thought Partner Instead of fearing AI, Kendall recommends: Using AI to operationalize your business Organizing systems for scale Creating structure before growth Treating AI like a business consultant Scale doesn't come from hustle alone. It comes from structure. Resources Mentioned Climber Community → climbercommunity.com Industry Speaks Academy → speakonrealestatestages.com Authority Gap Assessment Speaker Readiness Checklist The Road Less Stupid – Keith Cunningham Alvin Toffler quote on learning, unlearning, relearning Final Takeaway The quality of your life — and your business — is a direct reflection of what you make non-negotiable. If you want to grow beyond transactions: Structure your business Build credibility intentionally Put in the reps Seek rooms that stretch you Learn, unlearn, relearn Because in 2026 and beyond, authority won't belong to the loudest voice. It will belong to the most prepared one. Connect with Us: Instagram: @johnkitchenscoachLinkedIn: @johnkitchenscoachFacebook: @johnkitchenscoach 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! 🔥