In this episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, Sophaline Mao sits down with seasoned realtor and house-flipping pro Mony Nop to expose the real-world pitfalls that shock first-time flippers. From overvaluing property and underestimating renovation scope to hidden holding costs and costly permit missteps, Mony pulls back the curtain on the rookie errors that can eat your profit. They dive into hard data - his "70 % of ARV" rule, a budget that doubled on cabinets, and an $8 K pool surprise - then unpack exactly how they tracked every receipt in Excel, secured proper inspections, and built in contingency buffers. Whether you're plotting your maiden flip or simply love a good behind-the-scenes story, you'll come away armed with clear, actionable takeaways and a blueprint for smarter, safer flips. Tune in to learn: Why emotion has no place in investment decisions How skipping a single inspection can derail your timeline The timing traps of market cycles and holding costs Mony's top strategies for permits, budgets, and buffer margins Don't let rookie mistakes cost you thousands - listen now, leave a comment for our cost-tracker template, and subscribe for more insider tips!

In this episode of Love, Listings, and Legacy, Sophaline Mao welcomes former Theravada Buddhist monk Prenz Sa-Ngoun for a rich exploration of Cambodian American identity and cultural preservation. Prenz shares his extraordinary journey from Seattle to Cambodia, where he spent seven years as an ordained monk learning the Khmer language, Buddhist practices, and developing the deep spiritual understanding he now brings to his community work. The conversation flows through meaningful reflections on the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge genocide, intergenerational healing, and the beauty of Cambodian New Year traditions. Listeners will gain insights into Buddhist principles of impermanence and compassion as Prenz explains his mission to bridge generational divides through his ceremonial services.

In this crossover episode of Love, Listings, and Legacy, host Sophaline Mao welcomes Rita Phetmixay from the Healing Out Lao'd podcast to explore their shared experiences as Southeast Asian refugee daughters. The two discuss growing up in different environments - Rita in small-town North Carolina facing racism, Sophaline in California's vibrant Southeast Asian community - and how these backgrounds shaped their identities. They uncover family secrets, including parents who escaped war zones, half-siblings discovered later in life, and the difficult choices made during conflict. Their conversation examines generational trauma, mental health challenges, and cultural silences that persist 50 years after displacement from their ancestral homelands. Rita and Sophaline share their journeys of reconnection with their Laotian and Cambodian heritage, highlighting how today's young Southeast Asians are proudly reclaiming their cultural roots through education, community building, and storytelling.

Dressed in traditional Cambodian attire, hosts Sophaline Mao and Mony Nop invite listeners into their cultural heritage during this special Khmer New Year episode of Love, Listings and Legacy. Their conversation weaves through festive traditions of angel altars, ancestral offerings, and family gatherings that mark the April celebrations across Southeast Asia. The mood shifts as they reveal April's dual nature in Cambodian history: a time of renewal followed immediately by the somber 50th commemoration of the Khmer Rouge takeover that began a genocide. Sophaline describes this contrast as "bittersweet," celebrating cultural survival while honoring millions lost when Cambodia was thrust into "year zero." Against today's backdrop of global uncertainty, the couple shares their vision for finding peace through simplicity, gratitude, and connection—values passed down through generations despite unimaginable hardship.

Fifty years after the Khmer Rouge regime devastated Cambodia, survivors Mony and Sophaline Mao unlock memories most never hear. Mony recounts his childhood surviving on field mice and walking through active minefields to reach Thailand, still bearing the two-inch scar where another starving child bit him over a bowl of food. The couple reveals how survival came at a cost—parents who gambled away farm earnings, siblings scattered across America, and cultural identity nearly erased. When COVID forced the siblings into Zoom therapy sessions, they discovered untold stories of abuse and abandonment none had shared in four decades. Now reunited as adults, they're rebuilding connections while pushing back against the "crab mentality" that keeps pulling community members down. This episode strips away sanitized history to show how education and forgiveness are creating new legacies from the ashes of genocide. Through personal testimony, Mony and Sophaline honor the two million lost while celebrating the resilience that transformed refugee children into architects of hope.

Ever wonder what happens when two REALTORS decide to flip a house? Spoiler alert: it involves $300 daily interest payments, midnight trips to Home Depot, and playing hide-and-seek in an unfinished living room. Join Mony and Sophaline as they dish on their first flip adventure—transforming a 2,300 sq ft fixer-upper into a showstopper in just five weeks. Mony confesses to budget surprises ("I thought $1,500 for the pool... oops, try $7,500") and shares the unglamorous side of flipping that TV shows conveniently skip. Between bribing workers with lunch, scraping windows with razor blades, and discovering that "everything costs a little bit more," the couple reveals why this project became their "firstborn child." The episode offers a gold mine of advice for aspiring flippers, from hard money loan realities to why you should never let your handyman play electrician. Their tale of transformation goes beyond profit margins to the joy of creating a turnkey dream where a family can immediately build memories - after they've finished playing hide-and-seek, of course.

In this special Women's History Month episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, hosts Sophaline Mao and Mony Nop pay tribute to the extraordinary women who have shaped their lives and communities. Mony shares heartfelt reflections on the influential women in his journey—from his late mother who courageously led their family through war-torn Cambodia to America, to his third-grade teacher who believed in him when he couldn't speak English, to the accomplished women leaders he's encountered in law enforcement and nonprofits across the Tri-Valley. The couple highlights how real estate offers unique gender equity opportunities and celebrates both public-facing female leaders and the unsung heroines managing households. Their conversation reveals plans to feature inspiring interviews with local women throughout the month while emphasizing the importance of intergenerational female mentorship and support. This episode serves as a reminder of women's invaluable contributions and the bright future ahead as today's young women rise to leadership with unprecedented aspirations.

In this episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, hosts Sophaline Mao and Mony Nop peel back the curtain on how they've woven community service into the DNA of their real estate business, showing that success and giving can amplify each other. The couple shares personal stories from their refugee backgrounds that shaped their commitment to philanthropy, including their signature annual Mony Nop Turkey Drop and work with local schools and domestic violence survivors. Listeners gain an insider perspective on making charitable work a non-negotiable line item in business planning, with Mony explaining how community involvement creates genuine connections that naturally lead to referrals and transactions. The hosts offer practical suggestions for real estate professionals to identify their "North Star" causes and build meaningful community relationships beyond writing checks. This episode challenges the traditional transaction-focused approach to real estate, instead presenting a blueprint for creating business success that generates both financial rewards and community impact.

In this special episode, we're sharing Sophaline's interview with Chad Sammeth, host of the KhmerTree podcast and dedicated advocate for the Cambodian community. As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Cambodian genocide, they discuss what legacy means for the Cambodian diaspora and how to honor the past while building a stronger future. Chad shares his vision for KhmerTree - a platform created to connect Cambodian-Americans through shared stories and experiences. Despite his health challenges, Chad remains committed to this passion project as part of the legacy he wants to leave for the community. The conversation explores how both hosts view their roles in preserving Cambodian culture, breaking cycles of trauma, and creating unity among Cambodian-Americans. This meaningful discussion touches on identity, healing, and the responsibility we all share in shaping the next 50 years for our community.

In this episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, hosts Sophaline Mao and Mony Nop reveal the truth about running a thriving business while keeping their marriage strong and passionate. Behind their success lies a counterintuitive approach - they've learned to work apart as much as they work together, mastering the art of dividing tasks based on their unique strengths. Through stories of early mistakes and breakthrough moments, they share why keeping score in business is poison for romance, and how strategic calendar management became their lifeline. The couple digs into the nitty-gritty of setting boundaries between work and family life, including their non-negotiable rule: the marriage always comes before the business. Mony opens up about his childhood trauma shaping his need for order, while Sophaline discusses the power of curiosity over criticism when tensions rise. Their blueprint for success goes beyond simple time management tips, offering deep insights into building a partnership that flourishes in both the boardroom and living room.

Marking their third year of marriage, Mony Nop and Sophaline Mao discuss the realities of running a real estate business as a married couple while maintaining professional boundaries and clear communication. Bringing together their unique backgrounds - Mony as a former police officer and Sophaline from the tech sector - they share practical strategies for maximizing individual strengths and managing workplace disagreements. The conversation deepens as Mony opens up about his experience as a refugee and how it drives his dedication to nonprofit work, including ambitious plans for a tech education hub in Cambodia. Through their direct insights on wealth building, family dynamics, and effective leadership, the couple shows how professional success can fuel community impact. Their discussion offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs balancing business partnerships with marriage while showing how past struggles can shape a mission-driven approach to both work and philanthropy. Listeners will gain actionable advice on defining roles, setting boundaries, and creating positive change while building a lasting legacy.

Kick off your home-buying journey in 2025 with insider tips from Mony Nop. In this solo episode, Mony pulls back the curtain on the six critical steps every buyer needs to know - from selecting the perfect agent to mastering the new commission laws taking effect in August 2024. Discover why the mysterious "DU approval" could be your secret weapon for closing in as little as 14 days, and learn why traditional pre-approval might be sabotaging your offers. Mony shares battle-tested strategies for getting your offer accepted in today's competitive market, including a fascinating eight-hour success story that showcases these principles in action. This episode delivers the insider knowledge you need to navigate the 2025 real estate landscape with confidence.

In this episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, Sophaline discusses her professional path from Salesforce's San Francisco headquarters to launching tech consulting in Southeast Asia. In conversation with her husband Mony, she shares how a strategic career move led her from managing global partnerships at Salesforce to becoming the first person to establish a Salesforce consulting practice in Cambodia. Listeners will discover practical insights into navigating international business as an Asian-American woman, including how she used her cultural understanding while developing new markets. The episode provides a real look at taking calculated risks, from relocating to Singapore to building a tech company from scratch in Phnom Penh. Sophaline's honest reflections on staying true to herself while adapting to different business cultures make this episode valuable listening for anyone considering working abroad. Her clear message about understanding your worth and embracing opportunities offers practical wisdom for professionals looking to grow their careers internationally.

From escaping war-torn Cambodia as an infant to breaking cultural barriers as a first-generation college student, Sophaline Mao's remarkable journey unfolds in this intimate conversation with her husband Mony. In this episode of Love, Listings & Legacy, Sophaline shares her family's incredible path from refugee camps to the American Dream, including her father's courageous decision to stay behind during the Khmer Rouge regime to protect his mother. Listen as she recounts growing up in 1980s California, navigating cultural identity as the eldest daughter of Cambodian refugees, and defying expectations to forge her own path at San Francisco State University. Through vivid stories of drive-by shootings in Long Beach, her father confronting schoolyard bullies, and working three jobs while pursuing her degree, Sophaline paints a raw and inspiring portrait of resilience. Her message about not letting circumstances define your destiny makes this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation to pursue their dreams despite obstacles.

Join Mony and Sophaline in their final episode of 2024 as they share their highlights and vision for 2025. The couple opens up about balancing their real estate business with family life, launching their podcast, and growing through professional organizations like Women's Council of Realtors and Rotary International. They break down their approach to goal-setting using the "12 Week Year" method and share strategies for combining business growth with community service. The episode dives into specific targets they've set - from scaling their real estate business to launching international development projects. Mony and Sophaline share their journey beyond perfectionism to build a life of purpose. They close the year with actionable advice on turning your 2025 goals into reality while staying true to yourself.

Join Mony and Sophaline for a holiday episode packed with personal stories and essential real estate insights for 2025. The husband-wife team shares game-changing strategies for both buyers and sellers in the Tri-Valley market, blending meaningful reflections on the meaning of "home" with expert market guidance. Discover why January through March could be your golden window for maximizing your home's value, and learn how to prepare for the evolving real estate landscape. This episode delivers the perfect blend of seasonal warmth and actionable market intelligence to guide your real estate journey in the upcoming year.

From riding a Segway in a custom suit to becoming one of the top 10% of REALTORS®, Mony shares the unconventional strategies that helped him stand out in a crowded market of 2,800 agents. In this intimate conversation with his wife Sophaline, he reveals the reality behind real estate success - including the initial rejections that later turned into valuable client relationships. As first-generation immigrants, the couple offers a unique perspective on building a successful business from scratch through authentic community engagement and relentless professional growth. Mony's journey from knowing zero English to mastering complex real estate contracts demonstrates how determination and continuous learning can transform challenges into strengths. Whether you're considering a career in real estate or seeking inspiration for your entrepreneurial journey, this episode offers insights on turning professional knowledge into lasting success through genuine relationship-building and community service.

At a red light in Stockton, teenage Mony Nop faces a moment of truth - choosing between his father's troubled path and his dream of wearing a badge. In this riveting episode, Mony and his wife Sophaline discuss his 17-year police career: from daring helicopter operations to the shadowy world of undercover work, each moment permanently in his memory. Behind the uniform stands a former refugee who shattered expectations, becoming one of Livermore PD's pioneering Asian American officers. In their candid exchange, Mony and Sophaline peel back the layers exposing the emotional toll that comes with a life behind the badge. This glimpse into one officer's journey offers a fresh perspective on what it truly means to protect and serve.

Mony Nop's refugee story is one of extraordinary survival and resilience. In this gripping episode, Mony shares raw memories of living through the Cambodian genocide as a child - facing starvation, family separation, and a harrowing escape to Thailand. His vivid account of arriving in America in 1983 captures the wonder and challenge of building a new life from scratch, including wearing a winter jacket in 118-degree Arizona heat. Through Mony's powerful storytelling, listeners get a rare glimpse into the refugee experience and the deep impact of generational trauma in the Cambodian-American community. This is more than a survival story - it's a testament to the human spirit and one man's determination to create a different future.

When former police officer Mony Nop learned local families were going without Thanksgiving turkeys in one of California's wealthiest regions, he knew something had to change. Through his partnership with Tri-Valley Haven, a vital organization supporting survivors of domestic violence and homelessness, the annual Turkey Drop was born. Drawing from his own experiences of childhood hunger, Mony and his wife Sophie transform into costumed turkeys each year, rallying their community to ensure no family goes without during the holidays. What started as a simple idea has grown into a beloved tradition that's collected over 300 turkeys in a single event, proving that small acts of kindness can create massive community impact.