You’re standing in an open house, sweating in a blazer, and someone asks how many HVAC units are in the home. Cue the internal panic.

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most relatable questions we’ve ever received: How much do I actually need to know about houses to be a good Realtor? Spoiler alert: more than “I’ll find out for you” on repeat, but less than a licensed contractor.

Whether you're brand new or years in, this episode will help you figure out where the gaps are in your knowledge, how to fill them, and what your clients really expect from you.

We share our own early embarrassments (looking at you, open house meltdown), what we’ve learned along the way, and how we approach showing prep, including how much we know before we ever step foot in the door.

We’ll talk about:

• What to say when you don’t know the answer

• The key home systems and materials every Realtor should understand

• How we research and prep for showings and inspections

• The most efficient ways to learn about houses on the job

• What we do and don’t memorize before a showing

• Why attending inspections is better than reading reports

This episode is full of practical advice, permission to not know everything, and a little pep talk to go learn your product. Because you can’t sell what you don’t understand.

Take one hour this week and walk through a vacant home or attend an inspection. Ask questions. Learn what you don’t know. It’ll pay off in client confidence and better service.

1. “You can’t sell what you don’t understand.” —Katy

2. “It’s not about knowing everything. It’s about knowing where to find the answer.” —Alissa

3. “If you keep saying ‘I’ll find out,’ eventually clients will wonder what exactly you do know.” —Katy

4. “You’re not the inspector, but you are supposed to be an informed professional.” —Alissa

“Knowing your product builds confidence. And confidence builds trust.” —Katy

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Music:

Straight A’s by Conner Price

The Good Life by Summer Kennedy

Ever been asked—by a client or another agent—to cut your commission mid-deal? Or worse, right before closing? It’s happening more and more, and in this episode we’re sharing how to respond, how to prepare, and how to protect your paycheck without losing your professionalism (or your cool).

Inspired by multiple messages and agent stories, we’re diving into what we’re calling the age of commission cutting. We’re not talking about negotiating commission upfront—we’re talking about after you’ve already agreed to terms, done the work, and someone wants you to just... give some of it away.

We walk through real examples of buyer and listing agents being pressured into taking less, how to handle those phone calls in the moment (especially when you feel totally caught off guard), and why “just being nice” can cost you big time.

Whether it’s guilt-tripping, bad math, or a last-minute closing crisis, Katy and Alissa share how to protect yourself before it happens, why mindset and boundaries matter, and some super helpful scripts and phrases you can keep in your back pocket when you need to stand your ground.

You’ll also hear:

• Why commission is not part of the buyer/seller negotiation

• What to say when someone tries to guilt you into a cut

• The biggest mistake you can make when you're feeling bad for your client

• The difference between being kind and being a pushover

• How to do the math on what your time is really worth

Get ready for a pep talk, some wild stories, and practical advice on how to stop treating your income like a favor.

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 295: Why Buyer Agents Struggle to Get Paid

• Episode 232: Buyer Brokerage How-Tos

• Daryl Davis quote and article referenced

• Episode 296: Peaceful Partings

1. “You’re not a victim in a real estate transaction. You agreed to the terms—stand by them.” —Katy

2. “Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on mine.” —Alissa

3. “Your commission isn’t a bargaining chip. It’s the price for the service you already delivered.” —Katy

4. “Be kind, but stand firm. Those aren’t mutually exclusive.” —Alissa

1. “I don’t need to pay you to stay in this deal. That’s not my job.” —Alissa

CTA: If this topic hit home, take a minute to revisit your buyer consults and listing presentations. Are you clearly outlining your value? Are your clients crystal clear on how and when you get paid? Don't wait until you're put on the spot.

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What happens when a client blindsides you and hires someone else? Or when your favorite sellers decide to "hit the button" on Zillow without you? In this episode, we’re talking all about how to keep your cool, preserve your relationships, and show up with professionalism—even when your heart gets broken.

We’ve all been there. A past client lists their home without calling you. A buyer you’ve poured into suddenly ghosts you. A friend uses someone else. Ouch. The gut punch is real, but what you do next matters even more than what just happened. Peaceful partings aren’t always easy, but they’re always worth it.

We’re chatting through real-life rejection stories (some from last week!) and how we’ve learned to navigate them with kindness, class, and a whole lot of self-talk. It’s not about avoiding hurt; it’s about choosing how to respond.

Here’s what we get into:

• How to handle the heartbreak of client rejection

• What to say when someone lists without you

• The power of the follow-up (even when you’re mad!)

• How to part ways professionally with a broker or team

• When to let go and when to speak up

• The importance of grace, gratitude, and not taking it personally

Grab a tissue, pour some coffee, and let’s talk about peaceful partings in all their messiness.

💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways

1. "It’s not about you. Nobody cares about you as much as you think they do." — Katy

2. "Rejection still hurts, even when you’re seasoned. But you don’t have to let it define you." — Alissa

3. "Gratitude builds bridges. You never know when your paths will cross again." — Katy

4. "Be so kind they regret not choosing you." — Alissa

5. "Leaving well is a skill. It reflects emotional maturity and grace." — Katy

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Let’s be honest: when was the last time you checked if your business systems were actually working?

This week, we’re giving y’all a special sneak peek into one of our monthly Hustle Humbly Community live calls, and this one was just too good to keep to ourselves. We did a full systems audit together and broke down the four core systems every Realtor needs to run a smooth, sustainable business.

Whether you’re overwhelmed by tech, struggling to follow up, or just wondering why things feel so clunky, this episode will help you figure out what needs to grow, and what needs to go.

Here’s what we covered:

• The 4 core systems in every real estate business

• What a working system actually looks like

• Why simple systems are the hardest to teach (and the most effective!)

• How to know if your system is broken or just neglected

• Our favorite tips for tidying up your email, follow-up, and database

We’re also sharing tools, strategies, and examples from real community members who joined us live—plus some laughs, real-life solutions, and that signature Hustle Humbly encouragement.

If your systems feel like a cluttered mess, come hang out with us for a little systems clean-up. ✨

Loved this systems chat? Join us in the Hustle Humbly Community to get access to all the monthly lives and resources! Head to www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership.

Upcoming Community Live: Thursday, July 24 at 1pm Central

💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways

1. “There is nothing more difficult than simplicity.” —Alissa

2. “Your system isn’t broken—you’re just not using it.” —Katy

3. “A system is something that remembers for you.” —Alissa

4. “Stop trying to make it perfect and just make it work.” —Katy

5. “Your inbox is not a storage unit.” —Alissa

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Join the Hustle Humbly Community: www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/membership

• Trello & Free Trello training video: www.hustlehumblypodcast.com/trello

• RealtyZam bookkeeping tool for Realtors: www.realtyzam.com

• Skyslope / Dotloop / MLS tools

• QuickBooks 

Upcoming Community Live: Thursday, July 24 at 1pm Central

Ever had a mentor who ghosted you? Or a mentee who treated you like tech support? If so, you are in the right place!

This week we’re chatting about all things mentorship — the good, the bad, and the absolutely awkward. From horror stories of mentors who used their mentees as free labor, to sweet tales of life-changing support, we’ve got it all. And we’re not just telling our stories. Y’all sent in nearly 100 responses about your own mentor/mentee experiences — and we read every single one.

We dive into:

• How to find (or become) a great mentor

• What mentees get wrong (and how to fix it)

• Why boundaries matter more than ever

• How to know when you’re ready for a mentee

• Tips for respecting time, energy, and expertise

• What NOT to ask your mentor (hint: Google it first)

• Alissa’s story about “Workshop Wednesday”

We also chat about how mentorship evolves as you grow in your career, and why sometimes your “mentor” is really just your go-to industry friend.

Whether you're craving guidance or feeling burnt out from giving too much of it, this one’s packed with real talk and helpful insights. Mentorship doesn’t have to be messy.  Let’s get it right!

If you're feeling inspired (or exhausted) by your own mentor experience, send us a DM and let us know what resonated with you the most!

💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways

1. “Your mentor isn’t tech support. If there’s a tutorial for it, start there.” —Alissa

2. “Mentorship only works when there’s mutual effort and respect.” —Katy

3. “Don’t treat your mentee like your assistant — unless they are your assistant.” —Katy

4. “Sometimes the most powerful mentors are the ones you never officially asked for.” —Alissa

5. “If you’re asking five people the same question, you’re not looking for an answer — you’re avoiding action.” —Katy

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 17: What to Do When You’re New or Slow

CE classes, MLS tutorials, and brokerage training options

Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

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Feeling stuck in a saturated market and unsure how to stand out as a Realtor? You’re going to love this one!

This week we are chatting with the brilliant Tori Sprankel, a brand and web designer with a gift for helping entrepreneurs (especially parents!) uncover what makes them different. If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out your brand, what to post on social, or how to build confidence online—this episode is packed with gold.

Tori shares her hot take that Realtors should stop selling houses and start selling lifestyle. That one shift in thinking opens up a world of content ideas and opportunities to actually enjoy showing up online. Whether you're the mom who knows all the best playground coffee shops or the go-to relocation expert, Tori shows you how to define your lane and make it magnetic.

We also talk about:

• Why your personal brand is an overlap of your interests and your audience’s

• How to show up consistently (hint: it’s not about logos or fonts)

• Tips for easing into video when you’re nervous

• The power of “warm hellos” in stories

• Why you need to follow creators outside of real estate

• The content that works without being on social media

You’ll walk away from this one with tangible tips, fresh inspiration, and most importantly—permission to be you.

Want to feel more confident and creative online? Go follow Tori and grab her freebies at www.torisprankel.com. And don’t forget to DM her a voice note—she’ll love it!

💬 Key Quotes/Takeaways

1. “You’re not selling houses. You’re selling lifestyle and connection.” —Tori

2. “Your brand is that sweet spot between what you love and what your clients care about.” —Tori

3. “You can’t go from zero to 60 on video. Start with a warm hello.” —Katy

4. “Consistency builds safety—and safety builds trust.” —Tori

5. “If you’re only posting just listed graphics, you’re missing your chance to connect.” —Katy

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Tori’s free Stories Challenge:www.torisprankel.com 

• Connect with Tori on Instagram: www.instagram.com/torisprankel 

• Tori’s post: “Exactly What You Need to Post Today”

Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

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Agent Systems 101: agentsystems101.com

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Beginner’s luck was real—but it’s not forever. If you got into real estate during the pandemic boom years, chances are you saw fast wins and easy closings and you might’ve thought, “Wow, this job is amazing!” But now, things feel different. Harder. Slower. And maybe you're wondering… “Do I even have what it takes?”

In this episode, we’re having an honest, sometimes tough-love chat about what it really takes to make it in real estate today. We’re sharing our own early career stories: what worked, what didn’t, and why survival back then looks a lot like what it takes now.

We’re talking about the shift from pandemic market momentum to today’s unpredictable reality and why so many agents are feeling lost, confused, and ready to walk away. If you're in that spot, we want to help you find clarity (not just blind motivation).

We cover:

• The hard truth about beginner’s luck

• What it means to truly commit to a real estate business

• Why some agents succeed and others don’t

• How to know if it’s time to quit—or double down

• Real questions to audit your situation honestly

• The shift from “I want to” to “I need to make this work”

• Why having a backup plan can actually hurt your chances

This episode is for you if:

• You’re thinking about leaving the business (but feel guilty or unsure)

• You’re wondering if this slump is just temporary or a sign

• You want to stop spinning your wheels and start working a real plan

This one might sting a little—but we promise it’s full of encouragement, clarity, and direction too. Consider this your wake-up call and pep talk rolled into one.

“Just because you want something doesn’t mean it’s going to happen—you need a plan, not just a dream.” — Alissa

“You have to treat real estate like a business, not a fantasy.” — Katy

“Beginner’s luck gave you experience—now you need to put in the work.” — Katy

“Stop waiting for a magic turnaround. This is the new market. Are you in or are you out?” — Alissa

“The first three years aren’t about making money—they’re about showing up every single day, whether it’s easy or not.” — Katy

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 1–3: Our Origin Stories

• Episode 38: Where Our Business Comes From

• Episode 73: The Staging Closet

• Episode 119: Interview with a Builder

• Episode 198: Real Estate Side Hustles

• Episode 271: Should You Renew Your License?

• Episode 304: Listener Q&A Pt. 1

• Episode 306: Listener Q&A Pt. 2

• Real estate email templates: hustlehumblypodcast.com/templates

• Trello (for task/project management): hustlehumblypodcast.com/trello

• Excel or spreadsheets for budgeting early in your career

Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

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It’s time for more honest answers to your real estate questions—because you asked, and we had A LOT to say.

We’re back for Part 2 of our listener Q&A series, and we’re tackling everything from handwritten note verbiage to how to fire a client, and yes—even our thoughts on the revenue share brokerage model (spoiler: we’re not fans).

This is the episode you need if you’ve ever felt unsure about what to say, how to say it, or whether you should say it at all.

We’re digging into the real situations real agents are dealing with every day, and giving you the words, confidence, and strategies to handle them like the pro you are (or want to be!).

We cover:

• Reconnecting with past clients after a long silence

• What to write in handwritten notes that don’t sound salesy

• Scripts for hard conversations with buyers and sellers

• What to do when someone is rude or flat-out wrong

• Pricing conversations that don’t get you fired (or make you cry)

• What we actually spend money on in our businesses

• Handling rejection, unprofessional agents, and burnout

• What we’d change about the real estate industry

• Our honest thoughts on revenue-sharing brokerages

• Dealing with political and economic uncertainty in the market

Plus: We offer up some of our favorite phrases, scripts, and calming-but-firm lines that help us set boundaries and still keep our professionalism intact.

This one is packed with wisdom, laughs, and real world truths. Whether you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or just ready for a new strategy, we’ve got your back.

“You can always pick up where you left off. Just don’t apologize for the silence—no one noticed but you.” — Alissa

“If you're the only one doing the work to sell the house, it’s time for a reset or to walk away.” — Katy

“You don't have to be mean, but you do have to be firm.” — Katy

“Realtors aren’t therapists. Boundaries are how we stay in this business for the long haul.” — Alissa

“There is no free, easy money. Whatever path you choose, it’s still work.” — Katy

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 304: Q&A Part 1

• Episode 35: Stage to Sell

• Episode 73: Staging Closet

• Episode 38: Where Our Business Comes From

• Episode 48: Taking the Emotion Out of Real Estate

• Episode 77: Real Estate Virtues

• Episode 87 & 89: Morning and Evening Routines

• Episode 119: Interview with a Builder

• Episode 129: How to Be a Good Co-op Agent

• Episode 264: Relocating Your Real Estate Business

• Econ 101 Episode: Real Estate + The Market

• Flower-seed stationery

• Canva (for holiday cards)

Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

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What happens when you blend DIY passion with real estate expertise? You get Brittany Norman.

In this episode, we chat with Brittany—a Realtor, investor, DIY queen, and mom of three—who has built a fascinating career out of renovating, blogging, managing a short-term rental, and now helping buyers and sellers in Florida. Brittany pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to live in a flip, how to manage your own Airbnb (while also being a real estate agent), and the behind-the-scenes of brand partnerships and blogging.

We talk about everything from flooded homes and staging tricks to managing construction chaos and prepping a house for guests—with a few chicken bones and soot-covered ceilings thrown in for good measure.

Whether you’re thinking about buying an investment property, managing your own short-term rental, or just love a good before-and-after project, this episode is for you!

We chat with Brittany about:

• Her journey from Etsy shop owner to licensed Realtor

• How living in renovation zones shaped her investing strategy

• The emotional side of selling a home you’ve poured yourself into

• Real talk about Airbnb—costs, communication, and cleaning

• The mistake she’ll never make again with kitchen cabinets

• When DIY is worth it… and when it’s time to hire help

• How she turned brand partnerships into real income

• Offering value as a Realtor through staging consultations

“There’s no free, easy money. Even with short-term rentals, there’s always going to be work involved.” — Alissa

“If I’m going to mess something up, I’d rather do it myself and learn than pay someone and still not love it.” — Brittany

“You don’t have to be salesy if you’re offering real value.” — Brittany

“Sometimes you don’t need a to-do list—you need a ‘what not to do’ list.” — Katy

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• PriceLabs (airbnb pricing tool)

• EllisonMade.com

• PalmHarborHideaway.com

• thecoastalagentfl.com

Connect with Brittany:

• Instagram (DIY + blog): @ellisonmade

• Real Estate: @thecoastalagent or coastalagentfl.com

• Airbnb: palmharborhideaway.com

Cheers to Erin Kirk for the heartfelt support toast! We love seeing agents support each other behind the scenes.

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You asked, we answered! It’s been way too long since we’ve done a good old-fashioned Q&A, and y’all delivered some great questions. From systems and tools to mindset, burnout, and building consistency—we’re covering it all in Part 1 of this 2-part Q&A series!

Grab your sweet tea (homemade by Jac, no less!) and join us as we tackle everything from unresponsive leads to what “making it” in real estate actually feels like. We’ll give you a peek into what a “day in the life” looks like for us, plus share some pivotal moments in our careers that could have totally changed our path.

And spoiler: if you’re feeling behind, unorganized, or like you made some bad business choices… you’re not alone. We’re getting real and talking about what to do next.

In this episode, we’re chatting about:

• Our favorite systems, tools, and apps we use daily

• How we handle unresponsive leads (hint: it’s all about permission and perspective)

• What a “typical” day really looks like (if that exists!)

• When we finally felt like we “made it” in real estate

• What to do if you’ve made some bad financial choices

• Preparing for busy seasons without burning out

• Tips for creating long-term consistency in your business

• The emotional and financial investments that paid off in our careers

• A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run Hustle Humbly

👉 Want to get your question answered in future episodes? Make sure you’re on our email list at hustlehumblypodcast.com/freebies or hustlehumblypodcast.com/newsletter.

“Making it in real estate is when you finally stop crying over lost deals.” – Alissa

“Just because someone ghosted you doesn’t mean you did something wrong—people have lives. Don’t take it personally.” – Katy

“You can’t drop your lead gen just because you got busy. Future business depends on today’s actions.” – Alissa

“Preparing for busy season isn’t just about your calendar—it’s about setting boundaries and staying sane.” – Katy

“You don’t need 30 subscriptions. You probably don’t even know what half of them are.” – Alissa

Products, People & Previous Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 8: Real Estate Tech Tools

• Episode 33: Preparing for Busy

• Episode 87: Morning Routine

• Episode 89: Evening Routine

• Episode 264: Relocating Your Business with Christine Cooper

• Episode 265: Should You Renew Your Real Estate License?

• MileIQ (mileage tracking)

• Trello (project management)

• Skyslope & DotLoop (transaction management)

• MailChimp (email marketing)

• Canva & CapCut (content creation)

• Google Docs/Google Calendar

• Compass App

• MLS App

• Rocket Money (subscription tracker)

Leave us a review at ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly

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