Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

In Episode 2 of Designed to Glidewell, we’re continuing the story—and this is where things get even more real.

Just as we started to find our footing in the Airbnb world, everything shifted. Regulations tightened. Neighbors started paying attention. And what once felt like momentum quickly turned into legal battles we never saw coming.

We’re sharing what it actually looked like to navigate lawsuits, deal with the pressure of community pushback, and make the difficult decision to sell some of our properties.

This episode is about more than just real estate—it’s about risk, resilience, and the parts of entrepreneurship that no one talks about. The moments where you’re forced to pivot, protect what you’ve built, and decide what’s worth fighting for.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when things don’t go according to plan—or how to move forward when they really fall apart—this one is for you.

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

In this episode of Designed to Glidewell, we’re taking it back to the beginning.

We’re introducing ourselves—who we are, what we’ve built, and why this podcast is evolving into something deeper and more intentional. From the outside, our journey into business ownership and vacation rental investing might look smooth… but the reality was anything but.

We’re sharing what it looked like to invest our first $20K into Airbnb properties that launched right before the world shut down—when everything we thought would work… didn’t. From struggling bookings to one of our units being completely robbed, this episode is a raw look at the moments that could have taken us out.

But they didn’t.

We talk about how we navigated those setbacks, rebuilt from the ground up, and ultimately created a portfolio and business model that performs at a completely different level today.

If you’re in the messy middle, questioning if it’s worth it, or wondering how people actually recover when things go wrong—this episode is for you.

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

After five incredible years, we're sitting down together for the FINAL episode of The KarWell Chronicles. From late-night hustle sessions to heartfelt retreats, we've weathered every up and down—and now, we're turning the page to new chapters in our lives. Get ready for honest stories, behind-the-scenes confessions, and lots of laughs (and maybe a few tears), as we talk friendship, business breakups, motherhood, and what truly matters most. 

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to build something special with your best friend, navigate the wild ride of entrepreneurship, or make the hard decisions when passions and realities change—this episode is for you. Whether you’re an OG listener or finding us for the first time, we’re so grateful you’re here.

Join us for reflections on our biggest lessons, the legacy we hope to leave, and a look ahead at what’s next (hint: family, new businesses, and even more personal growth). Plus, you’ll hear empowering takes on trusting your gut, protecting your friendships, and unapologetically choosing YOURSELF.

Don’t miss the finale to five years of laughter, learning, and friendship. Hit play and leave us a comment with your favorite KarWell Chronicles moment!

TIMECODES:
00:01:58 – Life Changes: Why We’re Closing This Chapter (& The Big Announcements!)
00:13:30 – Overcoming Guilt & Embracing the Stay-at-Home Mom Journey
00:32:40 – The Power of Community: Our Final Retreat Reflections
00:46:08 – Business Peaks & Pits: Lessons from Saying Yes & No
00:52:45 – Friendship First: How We Kept Our Bond Through It All

👉 Subscribe for more on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and navigating transitions with heart. Follow us on Instagram for life updates, future projects, and everything that comes next.

Instagram: 

@sarahkarwell

@emkarwell

@thekarwells

THANK YOU for being part of our journey. This isn’t goodbye… it’s see you later. 💛

#TheKarWellChronicles #BestFriendBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MomLife #Transition #PodcastFinale #WomenSupportingWomen

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

Welcome back to The KarWell Chronicles! In this episode, Sarah and Ethan dive deep into the mindset shifts that transformed their entrepreneurial journey—from building businesses from scratch to embracing the powerful strategy of buying established companies. 🚀

We peel back the curtain on real-world statistics that will change the way you think about risk, success, and failure in entrepreneurship. Why do most solopreneurs hit a ceiling? How do you build for an exit instead of getting stuck wearing every hat? And what about stepping out of your comfort zone, overcoming limiting beliefs, and restructuring your entire life (including going alcohol-free!) to become the leader you were meant to be?

Whether you're a seasoned business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or just curious about personal growth and leveling up your circle, this transparent, no-BS conversation will open your eyes, motivate you, and maybe even make you laugh. Plus, we talk about the journey as a couple: what it means to truly partner with an A-player and why surrounding yourself with the right people is non-negotiable.

🔥 If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re building your business right, how to escape burnout, or if you’re simply ready for a new perspective—hit play now!

🎯 KEY MOMENTS (Timestamps):
00:05:19 — The Turning Point: From Building to Buying Businesses & Mindset Shifts  
00:06:30 — Eye-Opening Stats: Why Buying Beats Building (And Failure Rates that Shock)  
00:15:10 — Leadership Unleashed: Why Solopreneurs Get Stuck & The Power of Teams  
00:22:29 — Breaking Limiting Beliefs: Big Loans, SBA Secrets, and Taking Massive Leaps  
00:43:55 — Going Alcohol-Free: Reinventing Your Identity for Greater Success & Leadership  

👇 Tell us in the comments: What’s YOUR biggest entrepreneurial mindset shift? Ready to buy, build, or both? 

Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share if you found this valuable.  

#Entrepreneurship #BusinessMindset #KarWellChronicles #BusinessAcquisition #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #BuyNotBuild #Solopreneur #APlayer #SuccessMindset #LifeByDesign

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

On this episode of The KarWell Chronicles, Emily and Sarah dive deep into the current state of the world, navigating tough conversations about politics, free speech, cancel culture, social media, and the importance of open, honest dialogue—especially during turbulent times. 

They grapple with the public’s response to the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, the internet’s loud reactions, and how society is dealing with disagreement in an age of polarization. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes, the challenges of raising thoughtful children, and the struggle to hold space for differing beliefs within their circles. If you’re craving raw, unfiltered conversation about humanity, empathy, navigating the echo chambers of today’s media, and how to foster real community even when opinions clash—this episode is for you.

Whether you’re exhausted by social media outrage, worried about free speech, or just want to hear two friends wrestle with the gray areas of modern life, tune in for an honest, vulnerable look at what it means to (imperfectly) try to live with love and conviction in a divided world.

🌎 No topic is off limits—expect everything from travel dreams, parenting fears, and media responsibility to conspiracy theories and being “cancelled” for unpopular opinions. Plus, hear about the upcoming Cardwell Chronicles retreat and why civil, in-person conversation with people who disagree matters now more than ever.

👇 Join the discussion in the comments—respectfully, please!

✨ Key Timestamps:

00:11:03 – Social Media, Free Speech & Cancel Culture: Navigating When to Speak Up and When to Scroll Past  
00:12:43 – The Charlie Kirk Assassination: Impact, Reactions, and Why It Hit So Hard  
00:19:26 – The Disappearing Middle: Tug-of-war, Echo Chambers, & Losing Civil Debate  
00:38:06 – Cancel Culture on the Right: Are We Just Silencing Each Other?  
00:49:53 – Privilege & Perspective: Why Travel Reminds Us How Lucky We Are

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment if this episode resonated, and check out the details for the upcoming retreat—a space where real, respectful conversations thrive!

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

Welcome back to the KarWell Chronicles! In this episode, Sarah and Emily reunite after a busy month apart and dive right into the drama (and hilarity) of life, renovations, Airbnb investing, and navigating the chaos of contractors. From infuriating plumbers and quirky electricians to neighborly "breaking and entering," you won't believe the stories behind the latest lake project and Newaygo flip. 

Plus, we share the thrilling results of our latest appraisal (spoiler: record-breaking numbers!), tough lessons learned with building teams, why design matters more than you think, and discuss the shifting landscape of Airbnb real estate. If you're interested in behind-the-scenes real estate, female entrepreneurship, and real talk about work, family, and friendship—you can't miss this episode!

Don’t forget: Our Cape Cod retreat is coming up soon, and spots are filling fast! Tune in for all the juicy updates and info on how to grab your spot before our special room rate expires.

https://thekarwells.space/the-retreat-fall-2025

👀 WATCH FOR:
Outrageous contractor complaints and how we handle them
The hilarious saga of Keith the Electrician
Serious appraisal wins (despite the naysayers)
Unfiltered talk about healthcare, insurance, and advocating for your family
What’s going on in the Airbnb investment world right now

⏰ HIGHLIGHTED MOMENTS & TIME CODES:
00:05:43 — Off-Center Showers, Type A Renovator Problems, and Parental Home Upgrades
00:16:01 — Breaking the Appraisal Ceiling: Our Airbnb Surpasses All Expectations
00:24:15 — Is the Airbnb Seller’s Market Flipping? New Trends in Short-Term Rentals
00:33:32 — Lake House Neighbors Casually Break In… and Admit It
00:50:10 — Keith the Electrician’s “It’s a Bad Day, Not a Bad Life” Pep Talk

💬 QUESTION FOR YOU: Have you ever had a wild experience with a contractor or renovation project? Drop your craziest story in the comments!

👇 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the bell for more KarWell Chronicles! And if you want to join us at our next retreat, get all the info and secure your spot before September 19th! 

#Airbnb #RenovationStories #EntrepreneurLife #WomenInBusiness #RealEstateInvesting #Podcast #HomeImprovement #KarWellChronicles

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

In this unfiltered, behind-the-scenes episode, Emily and Sarah catch up on all the chaos, wins, and wild moments from their latest renovation and business adventures. From nightmare contractor stories (including the $hittiest accident EVER) to the realities of juggling work, motherhood, and big dreams (hello, mobile coffee shop!), we spill the tea you won’t hear anywhere else.

Join us as we dish out the drama from ongoing projects like Newaygo, laugh at broken Amazon deliveries and boxes piling up, share truths about working with GCs, and dream out loud about dark and moody Airbnbs (The Black Pearl, anyone?). If you want a dose of entrepreneurial realness, small-town business gossip, and all the heart and hustle behind building a business—and a life—you love, hit play now!

What’s inside this episode:
Hiring people just to take out the trash (and why it’s SO worth it)
The true cost (and risk) of launching a coffee shop in a small town
The game-changing power of Wayfair (yup, even for tile & faucets!)
Thriving — or surviving? — through endless project delays with toddlers in tow
Drama with contractors that has to be heard to be believed 🫠
Thinking bigger: Renovation, project management, and the mounting need for systems
Listing turn-key Airbnb properties (including your chance to buy one!)
And LOTS of laughter, lessons, and real talk about what it all takes

Ready to peek behind the curtain of real estate investing, renos, running a small business, and a WHOLE LOT of life along the way? Dive in for stories you won’t find on Instagram or TikTok.

Relevant Timestamps:
00:00 – The plumber’s nightmare: A renovation horror story you have to hear  
00:25:00 – Should you put roots down for your business in a small town? Sarah & Emily debate  
00:38:00 – The “bucket incident” and the reality of working with contractors  
00:54:00 – Behind the scenes: How big design projects actually come together (& why systems matter!)  
01:03:45 – If you’ve ever wanted to buy a Michigan Airbnb, now’s your chance  

✨ Leave us a comment below with your favorite moment, or any questions about Airbnbs, business, or project management!

🎟️ Interested in our LAST KarWell Retreat? Secure your spot now before it’s gone.

#KarWellChronicles #EntrepreneurLife #Airbnb #Renovation #SmallBusiness #MomLife #Podcast

WATCH NOW & discover why The KarWell Chronicles is your new favorite guilty pleasure!

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

Take Control of Your Wealth: Financial Planning, Real Estate, & Generational Wealth EXPLAINED!

Struggling to find the right financial advisor? Not sure how to balance investments in real estate and the stock market? Wondering how and when to start building generational wealth for your kids—or yourself? In this episode of The KarWell Chronicles, we dive deep into the real conversations you NEED to hear to make your money work for you. 

We’re joined by a top financial advisor (and Sarah’s brother!) who’s worked with hundreds of families to craft successful financial futures—covering everything from 401(k)s and tax strategy to investing in real estate, estate planning, and even the new “Trump Account” for kid savings. Whether you’re a new grad lost in benefits paperwork, a parent thinking about your kid’s future, or a seasoned investor, this episode will leave you empowered, informed, and ready to take action.

PLUS: We break down EXACTLY how to vet a good financial advisor, when to start planning, and how to open up money conversations in your family. 

Don’t miss these value-packed discussions (and some hilarious family sales stories). Hit play, and transform your financial mindset!

⏱️ Key Moments to Watch:
00:02:04 — What a Financial Advisor Actually Does (You’ll Be Surprised!)
00:13:10 — Best & Worst Financial Advisor Stories (Real Red Flags to Watch)
00:22:00 — How to Choose and Find the Right Financial Advisor For You
00:31:57 — Balancing Real Estate with Stock Market Investments: What’s Smart?
00:56:05 — How Open Family Money Talks Changed Our Lives (and Will Change Yours)

Ready to level up? 
Subscribe & leave your money questions in the comments—let’s grow together!

Foster Financial: https://www.fosterfinancial.net  
Contact Caleb: (260) 234-2200

Securities and advisory services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. State tax laws and treatment may vary on 529 plans. Earnings on non-qualified distributions may be subject to income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax. Please consult your tax adviser for more information.

#FinancialAdvisor #RealEstateInvesting #GenerationalWealth #FinancialPlanning #MoneyTalks #Podcast #StockMarketInvesting #FamilyWealth

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

Welcome back to another heartfelt and hilarious episode of The KarWell Chronicles! This week, we’re joined by our beloved friend Dayle—whose story of survival, resilience, humor, and entrepreneurship will leave you both inspired and entertained. From “taking a 3-minute breather” (yes, actual cardiac arrest!) to starting a thriving small business as a mom of two, Dayle shares her journey of overcoming adversity, building community, and redefining success—with a few near-crying moments and endless laughs along the way.

We talk friendship dynamics, mental health, motherhood, personal growth, and the ups and downs of choosing your own path—whether that means running 100 events a year or learning to slow down and savor family time. Expect raw honesty, relatable chaos, and genuine advice for anyone craving a fulfilling career, meaningful connections, or just reassurance that you don’t have to do it all—or do it alone.

If you’re a mom, entrepreneur, friend, or someone looking for encouragement, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to comment if you want a part two with ALL the dramatic stories!

🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations about entrepreneurship, real life, and everything in between.

SPONSOR: Thank you to Minoan for supporting today’s episode! Furnishing your short-term rental or home? Get up to 60% off premium brands and hassle-free ordering at https://minoan.com/karwells-podcast-2025

––––––––––

⏰ TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – Resetting at Night, Introductions, & Podcast Catch-up  
02:05 – Dale’s Story: Surviving Cardiac Arrest & Gatorade Feature  
07:25 – Humor & Healing: Coping with Trauma as Friends  
11:20 – Motherhood & Finding Purpose: Starting a Business After Kids  
22:10 – Wins, Chaos, and Mom Life: Balancing Business & Family  
32:55 – Scaling Back: Redefining Success & Time Management  
47:00 – Friendship, Vulnerability, & Building a Supportive Village  
55:00 – Permission, Mindset Shifts, and the Role of Faith  
1:03:00 – Raw Reflections: What We’d Tell Our 25-Year-Old Selves

––––––––––
Connect with Dayle: 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dayle_zelenka/reels/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dayle.wood.7/

👍 If you laughed, teared up, or got inspired, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE!  
📝 Comment below: Do you relate to Dayle’s journey?

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!

Have feedback or a topic you want to hear about, let us know by sending us a direct message!

Are you feeling burned out, stuck in your business, or questioning if this is really the path to freedom? In this raw and honest episode of the KarWell Chronicles, Sarah interviews her husband Ethan about his decision to sell a successful insurance business – the so-called “dream” of passive income – in order to chase something more fulfilling. Together, they dive into the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the myth of passive income, and the big mindset shifts that come from a decade of building, burning out, and starting over.

You’ll hear about the pivotal conversation that finally pushed Ethan to make a major life change, how they navigated the transition as a couple, what it’s REALLY like to move from six-figure safety nets into new, high-risk ventures, and what they've learned working with both everyday clients and high-net-worth investors. If you’re ready for an honest take on building wealth, changing careers, and betting on yourself, this episode will inspire you to make your own bold moves.

👉 Whether you’re stuck in a job you hate, thinking about selling your business, burning out in your pursuit of “freedom,” or wanting a behind-the-scenes look at building businesses as a couple: You need this episode.

Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell for more transparent conversations about entrepreneurship, real estate, and building a life with purpose.

⏰ 5 Key Time Stamps:

00:00 – The Conversation That Changed Everything: The story behind the pivotal moment at Legends Ranch that made Ethan finally decide to sell his business.

13:31 – Why Sell Now? Navigating years of burnout, false starts, and what finally pushed the decision to let go of insurance (and the myth of “coasting” on passive income).

32:25 – The Truth About Selling a Book of Business vs. an Actual Business: Lessons for insurance agents and entrepreneurs about building something that’s truly sellable.

53:20 – Moving from Serving the Masses to Working with High-Net-Worth Investors: How the energy and mindset of your clients can transform your own outlook and business trajectory.

1:14:02 – Passive Income is a Scam? Major mindset shifts about money, wealth, and why “cash flow first, investing second” may be the smarter play for entrepreneurs.

Feeling inspired or challenged by Ethan’s story? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below! And if you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or couple building something new, make sure you share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell 

You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel 

Thanks for listening!