Empire Building

Permission is a loaded word—especially for high-achieving women. In this conversation, we get honest about the invisible expectations we carry at home and at work, and how guilt and shame show up when we try to do it all. We talk about naming those expectations (“Who said you have to do it—and that way?”), asking for help without apology, and defining success by season. Sometimes winning is crushing it at work with leverage at home; sometimes it’s rearranging hours to be present with your people. Either way, we get to choose what success looks like and model that choice for our families.We also share practical shifts that created joy: letting kids own age-appropriate tasks, reframing “shoulds” like school drop-offs into connection time, and building a circle of support to remind us what we can say “no” to. If this resonates, share it with a woman who needs permission to redefine success on her own terms—and if you’re craving that kind of community and coaching, we’d love to connect about Empire Circle.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Today’s buyers are cautious and well-informed, which means our role is to lead with clarity from the start. In this episode, we share practical ways to set expectations before a showing—doing the homework with the listing agent, previewing the neighborhood, and arriving prepared with disclosures, comps, and HOA info so clients can validate what they’ve already researched.During showings, we keep it simple: use ranking systems like A/B/C or 1–10, give buyers permission to walk out of a “C,” and build trust by pointing out both wins and potential resale red flags. We also protect negotiations by saving strategy talk for the car (those doorbell cameras are everywhere), keep momentum by scheduling the next step, and close with confidence so clients feel great about their decision.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Today’s buyers aren’t rushing, feeling FOMO, or scrambling to beat the market—they’re facing more options, more uncertainty, and more hesitation than we’ve seen in years. Decision fatigue, interest rate weariness, and information overload are shaping how they think and act, and if you’re still treating them like the buyers of 2020, you’re already behind.In this episode, we break down today’s buyer mindset and share the questions that build trust, uncover true priorities, and move clients from hesitation to clarity, without feeling pushy. We also cover the surprises that can derail motivation and how to set expectations early so you can lead the process instead of following it.Resources:Episode 171. Harness the Power of Your Brain to Beat Stress: Part 1Episode 172. Harness the Power of Your Brain to Beat Stress, Part 2Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Picture this: you cross six figures in revenue…and take home two grand. Ouch. In this week’s conversation with business money coach Belinda Rosenblum of Own Your Money, we dig into the difference between having a business and actually owning it—especially your profit. Belinda shares how she went from barely breaking even to hitting a 40% margin in just one year, and the mindset shift that made it possible: stop chasing topline revenue and start planning for profit.We talk about how to take control of your money story, create simple systems, and build a strategy that allows you to pay yourself on purpose. Belinda also shares how to manage inconsistent income without panic and why real profit isn’t an accident—it’s a plan.If you’re ready to own your money, this one’s for you.Resources:Quick Biz Money Map - Free resource for listeners!Pay Yourself Calculator - Free resource for listeners!Secret Lives Of CEO Moms Season 2 Private Podcast - Free resource for listeners!Check out Cash Flow CEO"Self-Worth to Net Worth" BookLearn more at OwnYourMoney.comFollow Belinda on Instagram: @ownyourmoneyCheck out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Back-to-school mornings don’t have to feel like chaos. In this episode, we share seven practical strategies to help families win the morning and the day. From carving out “you time” before the kids wake up, to prepping the night (and week) before, we’ve found simple routines that cut down on stress. Visual checklists keep kids on track, breakfast becomes grab-and-go, and a launch zone near the door means no more scrambling for backpacks and shoes. We also talk about car kits for those last-minute saves, and how outsourcing or automating small tasks frees up space for connection.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Ever feel like your to-do list is running you instead of the other way around? We’ve been there. In this episode, we’re talking about the shift every leader needs to make—from constantly reacting to the latest crisis to proactively creating the clarity your business and life need to grow. We’ll share how to spot when you’ve slipped into reactive mode, why it puts a lid on your leadership, and what’s truly at stake if you stay there. Then we’ll walk you through five strategies to help you reclaim your mornings, focus on the work that matters most, create intentional white space, empower your team to self-solve, and protect the boundaries that keep you moving forward. Whether you’re feeling burnt out, stuck in busyness, or just ready to lead with more purpose, this conversation will help you trade chaos for clarity and build an empire with strategy.Resources:Read What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall GoldsmithRead 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin HardyCheck out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Negotiating for sellers in today’s market means setting clear expectations, sticking to the facts, and never negotiating before you have an offer in writing. In this episode, we get tactical about guiding clients through every step—responding to buyer’s agents, presenting every option, and making sure the seller is truly empowered to make the best decision.We share the lessons we’ve learned about staying focused on the seller’s goals, why the list price is just a strategy, and how asking the right questions (and listening well) sets you apart. Whether the market is hot or slow, these are the negotiation tactics that help you win for your clients. Stay tuned for our bonus episode on negotiation traps to avoid!Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Negotiation is everything in real estate, and today we’re breaking down the core steps that make all the difference. We talk about why building real connections with everyone involved (even the other agent) gives you an edge, and how asking the right questions—and actually listening—leads to better results. We’re sharing the power of small counters, how to negotiate the whole package (not just price), and why your words and even a little silence matter more than you think. Whether you’re in real estate or any field where deals happen, these steps will help you win for your clients.Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll get even more tactical about representing sellers.Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Ever found yourself drowning in work and thinking, “I know I need help, but I’m scared to hire”? We get it. In this episode, we’re talking about how to recognize the signs that you need leverage—whether it’s at home or in your business—and how to approach getting help in a smart, strategic way.From physical and emotional warning signs to missed opportunities with your team, clients, and family, we break down a simple framework to identify the pain points and explore practical solutions. And no, it doesn’t always mean hiring a full-time employee. Sometimes the answer is a better system, a tech tool, a part-time virtual assistant, or even a 12-week contractor. We’re sharing real examples of how we’ve bought back our time and made powerful hires—without the overwhelm.Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Ever freeze up when it’s time to hit record or write a post, thinking, “What do I even say?” You’re not alone. This week, we’re breaking down a simple content creation framework to help you move past the blank page and start sharing messages that actually convert. We believe the secret to content that gets results is getting specific—speaking directly to the real people you want to reach, and guiding them from hesitation to clarity in just a few steps.We’re sharing our “Six Ps” approach—Perspective, Problem, Pain, Possibility, Plan, and Pleasure—so you can quickly map out any video, email, or social post, even if you’ve never had formal training. We’ll show you how to tap into your audience’s real-life concerns, build connection, and make it easy for them to take that next step. If you’re ready to create content that moves people to action, this episode is your starting point.Resources:Read The Millionaire Real Estate InvestorConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAAny text or materials generated by artificial intelligence (AI) should be reviewed for accuracy and reliability as there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies.This podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Mindset can feel abstract, but today’s conversation with Elaine Stageberg brings it down to earth. Elaine has built a $400 million real estate portfolio, leads a private equity firm, and is a trained psychiatrist and mom of five. She shows us how practical time management, goal setting, and a willingness to sit with discomfort form the foundation for real growth.We talk about why real estate is the ultimate test—and teacher—of mindset, and how every big decision stretches us to new levels of belief. Elaine shares how to help our teams (and ourselves) get comfortable being uncomfortable, reframe negative stories, and become the kind of leaders who can handle anything. Her insights apply to business, family, and anyone ready to level up.If you haven’t heard our first interview with Elaine, check out the link below!Resources:Learn more about Black Swan Real Estate: meetblackswan.comInterested in investing with Black Swan? Explore their current fund offering here: securefreedomfund.comListen: Building a $400M Portfolio & Raising Five Kids with Dr. Elaine Stageberg | Empire Building (EP.272)Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.WARNING! You must comply with the TCPA and any other federal, state or local laws, including for B2B calls and texts. Never call or text a number on any Do Not Call list, and do not use an autodialer or artificial voice or prerecorded messages without proper consent. Contact your attorney to ensure your compliance.

Feeling that mid-year slump? You’re not alone—but we believe this is actually the best moment to reset and refocus. In this episode, we break down our real-world process for a mid-year business review: how we revisit our goals, assess what’s on track (and what’s not), and decide what’s truly relevant for the rest of the year.We get honest about revenue, growth, retention, and what needs to change, but we also dig into something even more important—team culture and energy. We share what’s worked for us to bring our teams together, add some fun, and regain momentum when things feel slow. Finally, we talk about why communicating your new plan and celebrating progress out loud is the leadership move that sets up a strong finish to the year.2025 is far from over. Let’s reset, rally, and finish strong—together.Resources:Watch The 10-Step Playbook for Scaling Multiple Businesses (EP.262)Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

It’s easy to get off track, even with the best intentions. In this episode, we’re sharing our personal mid-year reset process—our go-to for checking in, letting go of what’s not working, and making space for what matters most.We talk about how taking just a few hours to reflect, simplify, and plan can help you reset your goals and energy for the rest of the year. We’ll walk you through the simple framework we use to evaluate what’s fueling us (and what’s draining us), how we adjust our intentions, and why giving ourselves grace and white space is essential for building our best lives.If you need a fresh start, join us for this practical and honest reset—you’ll walk away ready to make the second half of your year count.Resources:The ONE Thing Podcast by Jay Papasan12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael LenningtonWatch Episode 70. How to Build A Simple Business Plan that Guarantees ResultsConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

When it comes to building an empire—whether that’s in business or in life—there’s no escaping hard decisions. We’ve all stood at the crossroads, wrestling with big choices that feel daunting, lonely, or even paralyzing. But here’s the truth: hard things don’t have to stop us. In this episode, we’re sharing five life-changing hacks that have helped us move forward with confidence and clarity, even when the path wasn’t clear.We dive into why getting crystal clear on your core values is the ultimate decision-making filter, and how embracing the 80% rule can break the grip of perfectionism and help you take action—even when everything isn’t perfect. We talk about the importance of knowing your inner circle (and not letting too many voices crowd your judgment), how to use the “future you” test to make choices that serve your long-term vision, and why the simplest framework—decide, act, evaluate—can move you from stuck to unstoppable.We know what it’s like to feel pulled in a million directions, to want to do it all, and to struggle with saying no. But we’ve learned that building something big means getting comfortable with messy progress, giving ourselves permission to course-correct, and always circling back to what matters most. If you’re facing a hard decision (or just want to get better at making them), this one’s for you. Darlings, you can do hard things—and we’re right here with you.Resources:Core Values Exercise & Free Resources: the1thing.com/free-resourcesThe One Thing Core Values DeckSocial - Attract Friends, Followers, and Connections to Your BusinessConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

When the market slows down, price is king. In this episode, we’re getting honest about what it takes to navigate a slower market—and why you can’t out-market a bad price. We’re sharing hard-earned lessons from our own experiences, including the conversations that still stick with us, and the data-driven steps we use to guide clients through price adjustments.We walk through exactly how we handle these conversations with compassion, the pitfalls of “paper cut” price reductions, and why the right move is often a bigger, faster adjustment. If your listings are sitting or your sellers are uncertain, this episode is your roadmap for taking action—and building trust, one honest conversation at a time.Remember: Big businesses are built in the details, and big lives are built when we lean into tough moments. If this episode helps you, please share it—we love hearing how you’re building your empire.Resources:Read Shift by Gary Keller and Jay PapasanConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Let’s face it—when homes aren’t flying off the market, sellers start watching you more closely than ever. And in today’s market, with inventory rising and prices softening, they’re not just watching—they’re expecting more. But that doesn’t mean your leadership slows down. In fact, now’s the time to step it up.In this first episode of our two-part series, we’re diving into the tactical moves every real estate professional (or service-based business owner) needs to make to thrive when the market shifts. We’re bringing over 14 years of real-world experience to the table and breaking down what sellers are really thinking—and what they want from you right now.We’re sharing how to shift into the seller mindset, why silence kills trust, and how cadence is queen when it comes to client communication. From rethinking the “list price” to creating a systems-driven experience that builds confidence, we’re giving you the exact strategies that help you show up as the expert—even when you don’t have good news to share. This is where reputations are built and market share is gained.We’ll see you next week for Part 2—because in a changing market, your leadership matters more than ever.Resources:Listen: HousingWire PodcastConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.WARNING! You must comply with the TCPA and any other federal, state or local laws, including for B2B calls and texts. Never call or text a number on any Do Not Call list, and do not use an autodialer or artificial voice or prerecorded messages without proper consent. Contact your attorney to ensure your compliance.

What will your empire say about you when you're gone?In this week’s episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of legacy—what it really means to lead with it, build with it, and live into it every single day. It’s easy to focus on short-term wins and flashy growth, but true empire builders know the power of thinking long-term. That’s what legacy is all about: the impact you make, the values you uphold, and the culture you leave behind.We’ll walk you through our four-part framework—Vision, Values, Voice, and Vehicle—to help you define what legacy means in your business and life. From vulnerable moments and ego-driven lessons to the power of generosity and sustainable systems, we’re talking about how to create something that lasts far beyond your name on the door. And yes, there’s a free journal prompt giveaway to help you get started.So whether your empire is global or grounded at home, this episode is your reminder that legacy doesn’t start someday. It starts right now.Resources:Download a free set of journaling questions to reflect on and define their legacy at herbestlife.com/podcastConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

You know the old saying—leaders are readers? Well, great leaders are also great sellers. And not because they’re slick or pushy. Because they communicate with clarity, empathy, and intention.In this episode, we’re sharing the seven high-impact communication skills that top producers use to connect faster, influence better, and close more confidently. Whether you're selling a product, an idea, or simply trying to get buy-in from your team, these are the tools that will take your conversations to the next level. From listening like a closer to storytelling that sells, we’re breaking down the communication habits that lead to bigger conversions—and bigger empires.This is one to share with your team or listen to twice. Because mastering these seven skills just might be the thing that helps you break through your next ceiling.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.Any text or materials generated by artificial intelligence (AI) should be reviewed for accuracy and reliability as there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. The use of generative AI is subject to limitations, including the availability and quality of the training data used to train the AI model used. Users should exercise caution and independently verify any information or output generated by the AI system utilized and should apply their own judgment and critical thinking when interpreting and utilizing the outputs of generative AI.

What if the one thing that changes everything... is you?This week, we’re joined by Dr. Elaine Stageberg, co-founder of Black Swan Real Estate. From growing up in poverty to training as a psychiatrist at the Mayo Clinic to building a $400 million real estate portfolio—while raising five young kids—Elaine is living proof that you don’t have to choose between big business and a big life.We dive into how she and her husband, Nick, built a family-first private equity firm that’s shaking up the industry by eliminating traditional fees and prioritizing investor alignment. Elaine shares the vision behind Black Swan, the mindset shifts that fueled their growth, and the systems that make it all possible.Her story is a powerful reminder that pain can spark transformation—and that with the right support, women can lead thriving businesses and households. If you’ve ever wondered whether “both” is really possible, this one’s for you.Grab your notebook—you’re going to want to take notes.Resources:Learn more about Black Swan Real Estate: meetblackswan.comInterested in investing with Black Swan? Explore their current fund offering here: securefreedomfund.comConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Ever find yourself avoiding a hard conversation—hoping the issue will just disappear? We’ve been there. And we’ve learned the hard way that silence doesn’t solve problems; it feeds them. In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most important (and uncomfortable) skills in leadership: having tough conversations.We are pulling back the curtain on the real work it takes to lean into hard talks—with your team, your clients, even your family. From owning your part in a conflict to setting the right tone for a private meeting, we’re walking through our go-to strategies for facing confrontation with confidence and care.You’ll hear about the power of self-reflection, how to communicate expectations clearly, and why you should never start a tough conversation with “got a minute?” We’re also talking about what to do after the conversation—because how you recover and regroup matters just as much as how you show up in the moment.If you’ve been putting off a difficult conversation, this is your nudge to lean in. Because as we’ve learned, the relationship is the conversation.Resources:Read Fierce Conversations by Susan ScottConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.