Hustle Humbly Podcast

Latest Episodes:

199: Building a Design Business with Alma Homes May 29, 2023

Show notes

If you've ever wondered what it really looks like to build a design business from the ground up, this episode is such a treat.

We're sitting down with Kiersten Erikson, founder of Alma Homes, to talk about how she combined architecture, interior design, and construction into one seamless business—and how that decision completely shaped her growth.

From discovering her passion in eighth grade to launching her firm in 2017, Kiersten walks us through what it takes to create a high-end, boutique design-build company in today's market.

We also get into social media strategy, diversifying income, and what Realtors need to know when working alongside builders.

This one is equal parts inspiring and practical—especially if you love design or want a peek behind the curtain of the building process.

Here's what we cover in this episode:

- Kiersten's journey from architecture student to business owner - What a design-build firm is and why it's growing in popularity - How combining design + construction improves the client experience - The importance of setting expectations early (especially around budget) - How Alma Homes uses a detailed intake process to filter leads - The role social media played in growing the business - Why Instagram Reels helped scale visibility quickly - Creating additional income streams through courses and digital downloads - How to handle high demand and repetitive client questions - Investing in real estate and short-term rentals for diversification - The challenges of finding quality subcontractors - What Realtors should know when working with builders - How to collaborate without overcomplicating the process

If you're a Realtor working with new construction or design clients, this episode will give you a better understanding of how builders think—and how you can show up as a true professional in those relationships.

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Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com

Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one

198: Real Estate Specific Side Hustles; Full Time vs Part Time Agents May 22, 2023

Show notes

Is it going to be a side hustle… or a side hassle? 👀

If you've been feeling the squeeze in this market, you are NOT alone. We've been hearing from so many agents who are trying to figure out how to make extra income without losing momentum in their real estate business.

So let's have some real talk.

In this episode, we're breaking down real estate specific side hustles that can actually support your business (not distract from it), plus the honest truth about being a part-time vs. full-time agent.

Because here's the thing… what you focus on grows. And if your side gig starts taking over, you might wake up one day realizing you're no longer building your real estate business at all.

We're sharing a HUGE list of ideas, stories from our own experience, and a few cautionary tales to help you make smart decisions in a slow season.

If you need a little boost right now, this is your permission slip to get creative… without losing sight of your main goal.

Here's what we cover in this episode:

- The difference between a side hustle and a side hassle - Why your side income should stay real estate adjacent - How your reputation can be impacted by what you promote - Real estate specific side hustle ideas that keep you in the industry - Easy ways to make money without adding startup costs - Why services (not products) are often the smartest option - What to watch out for before committing to a side hustle - The reality of being a part-time agent in a full-time industry - A real story of a missed deadline and legal consequences - How to treat your business professionally (no matter your schedule) - Why the goal should always be moving toward full-time

If you're in a slow season, don't panic. Stay focused, stay in the game, and give yourself permission to do what you need to do to keep going.

Just don't lose sight of the bigger picture. 💛

Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere

Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com

Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com

All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com

Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com

197: The Solo Journey May 15, 2023

Show notes

If you've ever wondered whether you should join a team or go solo, this episode is for you.

Today, we're sharing our personal experiences with the solo agent journey—what worked, what didn't, and why we never built traditional real estate teams.

Spoiler: there's more than one way to run a successful real estate business.

We break down how real estate teams have evolved over time, why they became popular, and what agents should consider before jumping in. From the old "rainmaker" model to today's online lead-driven teams, the structure has changed—but the decision is still deeply personal.

We're covering:

-What it really means to be a solo agent -How real estate teams have changed over time -The pros and cons of joining or building a team -Why we chose to stay solo (even as top producers) -How to grow your business without hiring agents -When it actually makes sense to hire help -Why starting a team too early can backfire -How to build support without sacrificing independence

We also share real stories—from accidentally becoming a "team" to hiring assistants, splitting help with other agents, and navigating different seasons of business and life.

At the end of the day, there is no one-size-fits-all path in real estate.

You don't have to build a team to be successful. You don't have to follow anyone else's blueprint.

You just have to build a business that works for you.

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Community over competition. 💛

196: Everything You Need to Know About Real Estate School May 08, 2023

Show notes

If you've ever asked yourself, "What do I need to know about real estate school?"—this episode is for you.

We're joined by Brent Lancaster, owner of Bob Brooks School of Real Estate, to break down everything you need to know before getting your real estate license.

From how long it takes to complete your coursework to what actually helps you pass the test, Brent gives us a behind-the-scenes look at real estate education—and what it does (and doesn't) prepare you for.

Spoiler alert: passing the test is just the beginning.

We're covering:

-How real estate school works (timeline, structure, and cost) -Online vs. in-person classes and what to expect -What real estate school actually teaches you -Why the course is designed to help you pass—not run a business -Common misconceptions about getting licensed -What impacts pass rates and test success -How the real estate market affects school enrollment -What new agents need to know before choosing a brokerage

Whether you're thinking about getting your license or helping someone else get started, this episode gives you a realistic look at what to expect.

Because getting licensed is easy—building a business is where the real work begins.

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Community over competition. 💛

195: If We Had to Do It All Over Again May 01, 2023

Show notes

Starting over in real estate can feel overwhelming—but what if you had a clear plan?

In this episode, we break down exactly what we would do if we had to start over in real estate—whether as a brand-new agent or moving to a brand-new city with zero connections.

Spoiler alert: we did a lot wrong the first time. 😅

Now, with years of experience, we're sharing the step-by-step approach we'd take to build a successful real estate business faster, smarter, and with way less stress.

We're covering:

-Why a financial runway is non-negotiable -How to choose the right broker (and what to avoid) -Why learning the transaction matters more than marketing -How to build a database from nothing -Where to meet people (and how to be intentional) -Why social media should start on day one -How email marketing keeps you top of mind -The mindset shift you need when starting from zero

Whether you're new, relocating, or rebuilding, this episode gives you a realistic roadmap to grow your business with confidence.

Because starting over doesn't mean starting from scratch—you're starting smarter.

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Community over competition. 💛

194: How to Choose a Broker Apr 24, 2023

Show notes

Choosing the right broker is one of the biggest decisions you'll make in your real estate career—but it's not the only thing that determines your success.

In this episode, we're breaking down how to choose a broker, what actually matters (and what doesn't), and the key questions you should be asking before you sign on the dotted line.

We also get real about something agents don't always want to hear: switching brokerages won't fix your business if your systems and habits aren't in place.

We're covering:

-Why choosing a broker matters—but isn't everything -The biggest mistake agents make when switching companies -What to look for beyond commission splits -How to evaluate training, support, and mentorship -Questions to ask during a broker interview -Why office culture and community are so important -What new agents should prioritize vs experienced agents -How to know if a brokerage is the right fit for YOU

Whether you're brand new or thinking about making a move, this episode will help you make a confident, informed decision.

Remember: you're not just joining a company—you're building a business of one.

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Community over competition. 💛

193: Handling Difficult Deals Apr 17, 2023

Show notes

Handling difficult real estate deals is part of the job—but that doesn't mean it's easy.

In this episode, we're sharing real stories from transactions that didn't go as planned. From emotional sales to post-closing surprises, these are the moments that test your professionalism, your communication, and your mindset.

Because here's the truth: not every deal ends in hugs and happy photos.

We're covering:

-What makes a real estate deal "difficult" -How to handle emotional situations like divorce, death, and financial stress -Why setting expectations early can prevent bigger problems later -What to say (and what not to say) when clients are upset -The importance of boundaries in tough transactions -What happens when things go wrong after closing -Why "when it's over, it's over" is a critical mindset shift -Real stories of deals that challenged us—and what we learned

You'll also hear practical tips for navigating these situations with empathy, while still protecting your time, energy, and professionalism.

Key takeaway: You can't control every outcome—but you can control how you show up.

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Community over competition. 💛

192: Do You Get What You Pay For? Talking to an Ex-Discount Brokerage Agent Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

Do you really get what you pay for in real estate?

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle, a former discount brokerage agent, to get a behind-the-scenes look at how these companies actually operate—and what that means for buyers, sellers, and agents.

From closing 113 transactions in one year to managing 20–30 deals at a time, Michelle shares what it was really like working in a high-volume, low-service environment.

We're pulling back the curtain on a business model many consumers don't fully understand.

We're covering:

-What a discount brokerage actually is (and how it's structured) -The difference between flat-fee and "full service" options -Why volume matters more than service in these models -What happens when sellers don't get guidance during negotiations -How pricing strategies are handled (hint: it's not customized) -Why buyers can end up with little to no representation -The confusion this creates for cooperating agents -What Michelle learned after leaving and going traditional -How to evaluate whether a discount brokerage is right for you

Key takeaway: Lower cost doesn't always mean better value. Understanding what services you're giving up is essential before choosing how to buy or sell your home.

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Community over competition. 💛

191: Do Your Due Diligence Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

Doing your due diligence isn't optional—it's essential.

In this episode, we walk through the ultimate checklist of everything buyers (and agents) should be reviewing during the due diligence period to avoid costly surprises after closing.

From inspections and insurance to surveys, HOA rules, and even talking to the neighbors, this is your reminder that a home inspection alone is NOT enough.

We're sharing real stories from our own transactions—because every time something goes wrong, the checklist gets longer.

We're covering:

-What the due diligence period actually is (and why it matters) -Why a home inspection is just the beginning -Additional inspections you may need (termite, foundation, mold, etc.) -How to verify termite contracts and warranties -When and why you should get a survey -What to look for with property boundaries and servitudes -Why insurance quotes can make or break a deal -Flood insurance changes and what buyers need to know -HOA rules, deed restrictions, and lifestyle limitations -Why school districts should ALWAYS be verified -Measuring for furniture, vehicles, and future plans -Checking loan details, payments, and closing costs early -The importance of talking to neighbors before you buy

Key takeaway: The due diligence period is your window to ask questions, verify details, and make sure you're truly ready to move forward.

Need a checklist? Download our free "Make Sure You're Sure" guide: https://hustlehumblypodcast.com/makesure

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Community over competition. 💛

190: The Unbelievable World of Wire Fraud and Other Title Talk Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

The world of wire fraud is growing—and as real estate agents, we can't afford to ignore it.

In this episode, we sit down with title attorney Nikki Besian to break down everything you need to know about title insurance, surveys, and the very real risks of wire fraud in today's transactions.

From understanding the difference between merchantable and insurable title to hearing real-life fraud stories that resulted in massive financial loss, this episode is packed with practical insight that will help you better serve and protect your clients.

We're covering:

-What title insurance actually is (and why it matters) -The difference between merchantable vs. insurable title -Common title issues that can delay or derail a closing -Why surveys matter more than you think -How boundary disputes happen (and how to prevent them) -What wire fraud is and how these scams unfold -Real-life examples of fraud in real estate transactions -How hackers gain access and manipulate email communication -Practical steps to protect your clients and yourself -Red flags to watch for in every transaction

Key takeaway: Your job isn't just to get to closing—it's to protect your clients along the way.

Resources & Links:

-Start Here (Free Database Template): https://www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere -Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com -Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com -All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com

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Community over competition. 💛

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