In this episode of the Property Career Podcast, we're joined by Naomi Butterworth from Place Ascot, who made the leap into real estate in her 50s after two decades in hairdressing and sales.

Naomi shares what prompted the career change, from a hairdressing apprenticeship at 15 through senior sales roles in the haircare industry, and why real estate finally felt like the right next step. She talks about starting out as a business development manager, the fundamentals that role taught her around follow-up, negotiation and communication, and the reality of her first, chaotic week in sales.

The conversation explores what it's like moving into a sales associate role alongside her brother, Pat McKinnon, the advantages her life experience has brought to the listing table and the challenges of adapting to new technology later in her career. Naomi also reflects on what it means to build long-term buyer relationships, the belief that a deal is never truly dead and the pride of being part of a record-breaking sale with her brother's team.

Follow Naomi on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/butterworth_place

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In this episode of the Property Career Podcast, we're joined by Andy Phythian, a 22-year-old business owner who has already spent more than six years in real estate.

Andy started in the industry at 16, earned his real estate licence on his 18th birthday and became a lead agent at just 19. He shares the lessons that shaped his early career, from working alongside a high-performing agent and learning the value of going all in, to mastering time management, understanding the backend of a sale and putting buyers first.

The conversation explores Andy's transition from agent to business owner, including the drive that has always pushed him towards the next big thing, the importance of enjoying the journey and what it really takes to build something of your own.

Andy also reflects on the importance of human connection, learning to respect the competition and creating opportunities for others to grow alongside you. The episode wraps with a quick-fire round, where Andy shares the most valuable experience of his career and what has impressed him most about the people and leadership at Place.

Follow Andy on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/andyphythian.place

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In this episode of the Property Career Podcast, we're joined by Ben Cutting, former professional cricketer and Lead Agent at Place Kangaroo Point, to unpack his journey from elite sport to a career in real estate.

Ben reflects on the discipline, resilience and obsession that shaped his cricket career, and how those same qualities have helped him build a career in property. From navigating injuries, form slumps and being dropped from the team to learning how to back himself outside of sport, Ben shares the lessons that have stayed with him throughout his career.

The conversation explores the similarities between cricket and real estate, from mastering the fundamentals and staying consistent to building momentum, handling setbacks and continuing to perform under pressure. Ben also shares his journey through property development and buyer's agency work before making the move into sales with Place Kangaroo Point, and what he's learning while building his career in Brisbane's competitive 4171 market.

Honest and reflective, this episode offers an insight into starting a new career, applying the mindset of an elite athlete to real estate, and how Ben's finding his next innings after professional sport.

Follow Ben on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cuttsy_31/

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In Part 2: Stepping Up Into Leadership with Sam Kelso, the conversation continues, unpacking the realities of leadership and what it truly takes to lead people well.

Sam shares his practical approach to leadership, from staying connected through regular 1:1s and meaningful touchpoints to creating space for honest feedback, trust and genuine human connection. Together, Amy and Sam discuss why leadership is a relationship that goes both ways, how to navigate ego when giving feedback, and why getting life right outside of work can create the foundation for success within it.

The conversation also explores how Sam's role as an auctioneer helps him stay connected on the ground, build stronger relationships across teams and businesses, and continue learning alongside others. Honest and insightful, this episode offers a thoughtful look at stepping up into leadership and showing up consistently for the people around you.

Follow Sam on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sammykelso/

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

We're back with another episode of Boss Moves! Host Amy Wolter is joined by Sam Kelso for part one of a candid conversation exploring leadership, personal growth and the experiences that have shaped his approach to both business and life.

Sam reflects on his journey into leadership, the influences that have shaped his leadership style, and the importance of having a trusted "wingman" in business and life to help navigate both the highs and lows along the way.

Amy and Sam also speak openly about some of the more difficult periods Sam has faced, including pressure, burnout and the shame that can come alongside it. From seeking professional support to building greater self-awareness, they unpack the importance of letting go of what cannot be controlled, stepping up when it matters, and creating healthier ways to lead both personally and professionally.

Follow Sam on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sammykelso/

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

This week, host Jenna is joined by Vita Little, Head of Property Management at Place New Farm, to discuss her extensive journey through the real estate industry and the experiences that have shaped her approach to leadership today.

Starting her career in reception and sales administration before moving into property management, Vita has helped multiple businesses grow and strengthen their rent rolls across several states in Australia. Having worked in a variety of markets, she shares how exposure to different legislation and operating environments has broadened her understanding of what property managers need to perform at a high level.

Vita also reflects on her time working for a technology company servicing the property management industry, which gave her further insight into the systems, processes and education needed to stay competitive in an evolving market.

Together, Jenna and Vita unpack the importance of ongoing education, understanding the numbers behind the business, and the qualities Vita looks for when building a high-performing team. She also shares some of her personal and team goals, along with her passion for helping others grow within the industry.

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In this episode, host Jenna is joined by Robbie Lofaro, the newest business owner within the Place network and CEO of Place Purpose Group, to discuss his journey into real estate business ownership.

Before entering real estate, Robbie had already owned businesses and always had a strong interest in entrepreneurship. After quickly establishing himself as a high-performing agent, that drive naturally led him toward building something of his own, but along the way, he realised his greatest fulfilment came from seeing the people around him succeed.

Together, Jenna and Robbie explore themes of leadership, retention and recruitment, and what it takes to create an environment where agents feel supported and motivated to grow. Robbie also shares his belief that energy is a choice, and why the mindset leaders bring each day plays a crucial role in shaping team culture.

At the heart of Robbie's philosophy is a simple idea: he's in the business of keeping real estate agents happy.

Follow Robbie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robbie_lofaro

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In this episode of the Summer Series: Spilling the Proper-Tea, host Lara Jones is joined by Gareth Gower, Head of Marketing, and Tamea Ramsay, Business Systems Manager, to unpack how marketing and business systems are influencing the way modern real estate businesses operate.

Together, they explore how strong internal systems and smart automations can support agents in their day-to-day work, helping to streamline processes, improve efficiency and create more time for what matters most, genuine client connection. Lara, Gareth and Tamea also discuss the importance of personal brands, the role social media plays in building trust and visibility, and how technology can be used to augment performance rather than replace the human element.

Thoughtful and practical, this conversation offers insight into how embracing the right tools and systems can elevate both performance and client experience while maintaining the authenticity that sits at the heart of great real estate.

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace_

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

In this special episode, host Sarah Hackett, Managing Director and Principal of Place New Farm, is joined by Meg Goodall, Lead Agent at Place Kedron, to unpack what it really takes to fast-track your growth in property.

Choosing to step into a lead agent role just six months into her career, Meg shares the mindset behind that decision and the standards she set for herself from day one. From committing to daily prospecting to embracing training and constant practice, this conversation highlights the power of discipline and consistency in building confidence and results.

Sarah and Meg also speak openly about handling setbacks, learning from losses and continuing to show up when it counts. Honest and practical, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about accelerating their property career and raising the bar on their performance.

Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meggoodall.place

Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahhackettatplace

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace_

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub

Welcome back to the Summer Series: Spilling the Proper-Tea. In this episode, Aaron Woolard and Flyn Park from Team Woolard join host Georgia Dean from the Place HQ Marketing Team for an honest conversation about what it takes to grow and succeed while working in a team.

Having worked together for three years, Aaron and Flyn unpack their journey, sharing insights into goal-setting, balancing ambition with sustainable career growth, dividing responsibilities, and working collaboratively without stepping on toes.

This episode offers practical advice for property professionals at any stage, whether you're part of a team, looking to build one, or aiming to grow your career while keeping it sustainable and rewarding. A must-listen for those wanting to thrive in property careers while building strong, supportive partnerships along the way.

Property Career Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycareer/

Property Career TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@propertycareer

Life at Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeatplace_/

Life at Place TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifeatplace_

Interested in a Career at Place? https://www.eplace.com.au/careers-hub