Better Your Business

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Tory Akene — one of the world’s first AI-certified real estate agents and a business coach with Kathleen Black International. Tory shares her unconventional journey into real estate, her passion for helping agents unlock the power of AI, and how she balances entrepreneurship with motherhood. With her signature blend of authenticity and strategic insight, Tory offers a wealth of practical advice for agents looking to grow their business with systems, intention, and creativity.

In this episode you will hear: 

• [01:45] Tory shares her journey from insurance claims to becoming a licensed agent during the pandemic.
• [03:40] How AI, when customized, can dramatically improve a realtor’s efficiency and output.
• [06:02] The importance of storing business information in ChatGPT to enhance performance and automation.
• [13:04] Real-world examples of using AI for custom clauses, listing relaunch strategies, and turning research into client communication.
• [16:38] The value of customizing ChatGPT to practice scripts, roleplay, and even adjust tone for different audiences.
• [20:20] How to improve ChatGPT outputs with one simple prompt: “How can you make this better?”
• [23:20] Why networking with other agents has been a powerful business growth strategy for Tory.
• [27:51] Tory opens up about the hardest season in her business which is balancing entrepreneurship with personal life changes.
• [30:47] The number one struggle she sees agents facing right now and the importance of narrowing down three core lead generation pillars.
• [34:34] Why agents shouldn’t expect business from friends and family unless they’ve intentionally nurtured those relationships.
• [38:30] Tory and Cher discuss intentional parenting while growing a business and the power of creating consistent connection routines.
• [43:40] Tory shares a current challenge finding an AI calling platform that sounds human and supports her lead outreach.
• [44:48] Her advice to women in real estate: hire a virtual assistant to help lighten the mental and operational load.
• [47:15] Shoutouts to women who’ve inspired her Stacey Prieur and Kathleen Black

Connect with Tory:

Instagram: @myrealtortory 

 Thank you to our Sponsors:
Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

In this reflective and solo episode, Cher Goetz shares powerful goal-setting strategies that go far beyond traditional metrics. Recorded just after hosting her first Better Your Business webinar, Cher walks listeners through the exact method she uses to set aligned goals based on how she wants to feel. This is a process that has helped her build a business that supports her life, not drains it. With real-life examples and a behind-the-scenes look at her personal and business planning, this episode offers Realtors a grounded, honest approach to creating goals that stick.

In this episode you will hear: 

• [01:40] Cher introduces her 7-step framework for building a sustainable real estate business, starting with setting clear goals rooted in emotion and impact.
• [04:52] Learn Cher’s “delegate, delete, reframe” method to intentionally release feelings or habits that no longer serve you.
• [07:00] Cher shares her 2025 goal to feel energized, which led her to hire a trainer and work toward doing one unassisted pull-up by year-end…mission accomplished!
• [11:09] To feel more ease, Cher limited phone use with simple boundaries (e.g. no screen time before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m.) and prioritized being present at home.
• [14:27] Her “dopamine menu” included quiet, joyful moments like reading, painting, dog walks, and sipping coffee, intentionally inserted into daily gaps.
• [18:33] She talks about auditing relationships, both personal and professional, to protect joy and surround herself with high-energy, values-aligned people.
• [26:12] She recaps her goal-setting process, encouraging listeners to identify feelings first, then actions, then schedule them creating real accountability.
• [28:02] Cher previews the full Better Your Business webinar replay, including how she sets income goals, attracts ideal clients, and builds marketing systems with ease.
• [32:04] Mindset takeaways: embrace imperfection, show up despite fear, and remember this - your imperfect effort will always outperform someone else’s inaction.
• [36:14] Encouragement to trust the process: what you put out will come back to you, especially when you lead with service, gratitude, and generosity.
• [38:35] Cher announces her new Better Your Business membership: weekly accountability calls, bite-sized lessons, and a supportive Realtor community.

Connect with Cher:

Better Your Business Webinar Replay: athomeco.myflodesk.com/ro4pihlm3x

Better Your Business Membership: 

https://betteryourbusiness.thinkific.com/products/courses/better-your-business-the-realtor-membership?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGntgyz3unRtiem_7TDGLLOZp7ecatTE4mX1RSnBxkMbn88m_CQRNQREDLO9es_aem_LF0BmTxQNjxmwmVvjxpleg

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Thank you to our Sponsors:
Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with seasoned sales coach Kirsten Schmitke for a deep dive into the art of selling authentically. With over 15 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and executives increase revenue and deepen their impact, Kirsten shares practical mindset shifts, frameworks, and tools to help Realtors overcome the “ick” of sales and build trust-based client relationships. Together, they unpack how authenticity, emotional intelligence, and client-focused conversations can transform how Realtors approach selling and presentations.

In this episode you will hear: 

• [00:44] Kirsten introduces herself as a sales expert and coach and shares how her tech industry background shaped her approach to authentic selling.
• [02:18] Cher and Kirsten discuss the common discomfort Realtors feel with “selling themselves” and why reframing sales as service can remove the ick.
• [04:15] A mindset exercise to reframe negative associations with sales by identifying old beliefs and creating a new definition rooted in trust and transparency.
• [07:20] The “30 Results” exercise to shift focus from Realtor tasks to the results and emotions clients experience clarity, ease, confidence, and excitement.
• [15:47] How to turn the 30 results list into engaging marketing content, storytelling in listing presentations, and building deeper trust with clients. 
• [20:16] Kirsten shares how oversharing features can overwhelm clients and shift focus back to what’s in it for them, clarity and emotional alignment wins.
• [25:20] The “three-question rule” for client meetings: ask before telling, uncover what matters, and let the client write your presentation for you.
• [34:05] Cher and Kirsten explore how leadership in real estate involves confidence, adaptability, and emotional check-ins to meet clients where they are.
• [39:08] The importance of flexibility in your sales process and client communication, and how checking in leads to better experiences and referrals.
• [50:54] Why letting go of “how” and leaning into belief, energy, and aligned action can help you reach your goals faster.

Special Offer: Kirsten offers a free worksheet to help listeners connect with their next-level identity. DM her “Better Your Business” on Instagram to receive it.

Connect with Kirsten:

Instagram: @kirstenschmidtke

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher is joined by Eliz Akcagliyan to unpack the Reals Production Mastery event hosted by Amy Youngren and Real Brokerage. The two share honest and off-the-cuff reflections from a day filled with impactful speakers, strategy-packed panels, and mindset-shifting conversations. From platform leadership to AI tools and practical marketing tips, this recap dives into what resonated most and how Realtors can use these insights to grow a business that works for their life, not against it.

In this episode you will hear: 

• [03:24] First impressions of the event and Real CEO Tamir’s vision: building a brokerage for every type of agent, not just top producers.
• [04:49] Tamir’s mindset reminder: "The market doesn't control us; our habits and skills do."
• [13:19] Shifting your value proposition as tech evolves and focusing on connection, trust, and the human element.
• [28:30] Darren’s quadrant method for simplifying lead generation and the STAB content framework (Sell, Teach, About You, Behind The Scenes).
• [34:37] Steph’s standout panel insights: stay a little longer, prioritize people over transactions, and create touch points even outside buying/selling.
• [41:58] Andrea’s advice: tell the truth, set boundaries, and make decisions aligned with how you want to feel.
• [44:51] Avoid shiny object syndrome: choose mentors and systems that reflect the business you actually want.
• [56:07] Steph’s family story: "Take care of the people" is the key to longevity in business.
• [56:46] Real COO Jenna’s quote: “Improvement is better than delayed perfection.” Raise standards and serve exceptionally.
• [59:39] Leo AI resolves 25% of tickets; advisory board to ensure Canada-specific support at Real.
• [1:04:11] Emma Pace’s strategy: run $1/day video ads for visibility, engagement, and lead revival.
• [1:13:08] How to run co-hosted vendor events to gain high-value leads and mutual exposure.
• [1:16:48] Social media panel takeaways: green screen strategy, local business features, and just start posting.
• [1:23:12] Partnering with small businesses for mutually beneficial marketing.
• [1:26:07] Joe’s closing message: reverse engineer your lead gen based on the life and business you want to build.

This recap is packed with reminders that success doesn’t come from hustle alone but from clarity, connection, consistency, and community. 

Connect with Eliz:

Instagram: @e.a.realty 

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

Welcome back to the Better Your Business podcast! In this solo episode, Cher breaks down her go-to marketing formula that helps realtors attract aligned clients without burning out. Cheryl shares a step-by-step approach to content creation, designed to connect authentically, demonstrate expertise, and provide real value to your ideal audience. If you’ve ever struggled with what to post, how to show up online, or how to make your marketing actually work for your business, this episode will give you the structure and clarity to move forward with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [01:00] Cher introduces her "value + proof + connection" marketing formula and how it can align your business with the right clients.
• [01:25] Value: How to provide helpful content that solves real problems your audience is facing, both real estate-related and personal.
• [03:31] Examples of solving client pain points like selling with kids or affording a down payment
• [13:00] Proof: How to show you're a competent and active realtor even without a pile of testimonials.
• [14:19] Tips for showcasing buyer needs, listings, and track records to boost trust and credibility.
• [17:58] Connection: Why personal stories, hobbies, causes, and everyday moments help your audience feel like they truly know you.
• [26:24] An example on how to turn this formula into content ideas, email lead magnets, and marketing systems that actually bring results.

This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a business that reflects who you are and naturally attracts your dream clients.

Connect with Cher:

E-mail Newsletter: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

Welcome back to the Better Your Business podcast! In today’s episode, Cheryl Goetz chats with award-winning realtor Sarah Donnelly, who shares how she built a thriving, relationship-focused real estate business from the ground up. From her early days as a young assistant to launching her own luxury brand, Sarah opens up about the behind-the-scenes systems, mindset shifts, and creative marketing that fuel her continued success. She also dives into setting boundaries, building a team, and the power of being service-first, even when you're just getting started.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [04:05] Why starting as an assistant gave Sarah the foundation she needed to grow a confident, client-first real estate business. 
• [10:55] How thoughtful, branded client gifting, from 9 gifts to 200+ became a core retention and referral strategy at BLVD. Realty Group.
• [15:12] The story behind Sarah’s listing video featuring a 93-year-old golfer, and how including clients in marketing builds emotional connection.
• [19:10] Why niching your brand doesn’t mean excluding people, and how Sarah’s luxury messaging still attracted a wide range of clients.
• [30:58] Sarah’s low-tech but highly effective systems using templates, guides, checklists, and Google Drive to stay organized and consistent.
• [37:09] Why community events are still a pillar in her business, and how she pivoted from large summits to intimate, high-touch client gatherings.
• [58:41] The best “sales strategy” Sarah swears by: Care deeply and be empathetic to other people’s needs. This will leave every client feeling seen and supported.

Sarah Donnelly’s approach is proof that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel, you just need to lead with heart, execute with intention, and stay consistent. Whether it’s remembering a client’s kid’s name at the gym or showing up with a pie on their doorstep, her relationship-first mindset is what makes her unforgettable.

Tune in for practical, heartfelt advice on building a business where luxury, service, and simplicity go hand in hand.

Connect with Sarah:

Instagram: @blvd.realtygroup

Website: www.blvdrealtygroup.ca

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

Welcome back to the Better Your Business podcast! In this solo episode, Cher dives into the four foundational C’s that shape her real estate business: clients, colleagues, community, and curiosity. What started as a response to a question about focus turned into a powerful framework that’s helped her build relationships, stand out in a crowded industry, and grow sustainably. Cher shares actionable examples, real conversations, and tangible ways to apply these pillars in your own business, without the burnout.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [04:36] Why relationships with colleagues matter just as much as clients—and how they can shape your reputation, negotiation power, and referrals.
• [06:50] Cher’s breakdown of the 4 C’s— how clients, colleagues, community, and curiosity came together organically to define her business model.
• [11:02] How understanding your ideal client’s goals and frustrations, both in life and real estate, helps you create better content and deliver better service.
• [15:17] The power of simply complimenting another agent and how small gestures can lead to trust, smoother deals, and new opportunities.
• [18:21] A client’s candid reason for choosing Cher: “You’re so active in the community, there’s no way you’re out there screwing people over.”
• [26:50] How curiosity created a collaborative partnership with a mortgage agent that now includes events, retreats, and shared business growth.
• [32:20] Real-life client questions Cher asks, like “Why now?” or “How close is daycare?”, and how this curiosity-first approach leads to trust and better guidance.

This episode is a reminder that building a great business doesn’t have to mean doing more, it means doing the right things with intention. By staying client-focused, collaborating generously, embedding in your community, and always leading with curiosity, you’ll build a business that not only grows, but feels good too.

Tune in to explore the 4 C’s and find your own rhythm for real estate success.

Connect with Cher:

E-mail Newsletter: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cheryl Goetz sits down with Audrey Bailey to explore how redefining success, leaning into rest, and embracing a softer sales approach helped her build a thriving real estate business. Audrey shares the mindset shifts, systems, and community connections that have allowed her to grow with ease—and increase her sales by 45% in 2024. For any realtor craving alignment over hustle, this conversation is a must-listen.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:37] Audrey defines “soft sales” and explains why letting go of pressure-based tactics created more alignment—and better results.
• [05:01] How intentional, agenda-free coffee chats with local business owners organically turned into new business.
• [09:09] The story behind Audrey’s “village” and how building a network of trusted suppliers elevated both client experience and referral relationships.
• [17:30] Why scaling back on marketing and leaning into rest over the summer led to her highest-earning months of the year.
• [27:45] Audrey shares why she says no to misaligned clients—and how that opens space for ideal partnerships to come through.
• [31:06] Letting go of scripts: how showing up as herself brought more confidence, clarity, and ease to her business.
• [55:40] Behind Audrey’s twice-yearly magazine—part real estate, part mindset, part community—and how it's become a powerful touchpoint for clients.

Whether you're a seasoned realtor or just starting out, Audrey's story is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t have to come from hustle—it can come from alignment, rest, and meaningful connection. Her approach proves that when you lead with generosity and trust, the business follows. 

Connect with Audrey:

Instagram: @_explorethevillage

Website: explorethevillage.ca

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f

Welcome to the Better Your Business podcast! In this very first solo episode, your host Cheryl “Cher” Goetz welcomes listeners to the podcast and opens up about her journey as a Realtor, educator, and community builder. From her early beginnings in her father’s home building business to creating a relationship-based real estate career, Cher shares candidly about the highs, lows, and lessons she’s learned along the way. She explains the heart behind the podcast name, the importance of running a business that fuels your life, and gives listeners a taste of what to expect from upcoming episodes. This introduction sets the stage with authenticity, humour, and practical wisdom for realtors looking to grow with ease and alignment.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [00:42] Why Cher launched Better Your Business and her vision for the podcast.
• [02:08] Overcoming imposter syndrome and building a sustainable solo-agent business.
• [05:30] How the name Better Your Business came to be and the heart behind it.
• [14:50] How defining success shifted from “busyness” to creating joy, ease, and presence.
• [17:02] Attracting aligned clients by showing up authentically and setting clear boundaries.
• [21:57] The hardest seasons of business, from burnout to financial strain, and the mindset shifts that helped her through.
• [34:27] Unconventional marketing wins (like showing her messy home) and flops (paid ads).
• [37:52] What Cher does on the days she feels stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to give up.
• [41:17] Routines that support both life and business, from strength training to local events.
• [55:44] Ways to connect beyond the podcast: Instagram, masterminds, workshops, and retreats.

Tune in to this uplifting kickoff episode to get to know Cher, her journey, and her vision for Better Your Business. Whether you’re a realtor just starting out or looking to refine your approach, you’ll find practical takeaways and inspiration to build a business that supports the life you want. 

Connect with Cher:

E-mail Newsletter: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Instagram: @chergoetz_
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f