The Property Management Podcast with That Property Mum

In this deeply honest and thought-provoking conversation, I sat down with Melissa Hickson to explore a side of property management that so many professionals experience but rarely speak about openly – nervous system dysregulation, chronic stress, and the emotional toll of constantly operating in survival mode. Together, we unpack the invisible pressure so many property managers carry while juggling demanding workloads, difficult conversations, leadership responsibilities and personal challenges behind the scenes. This episode offers a compassionate and refreshing perspective on what burnout really looks like in our industry – and why simply “pushing through” is no longer sustainable.

Melissa shares her personal journey through career trauma, relationship breakdown, anxiety and emotional exhaustion, alongside the powerful practices that helped her rebuild herself from the inside out. From breathwork and nervous system regulation to recognising the physical signs of stress, this conversation is filled with practical insights for property management professionals who feel overwhelmed, reactive or disconnected from themselves. I also open up about my own experience with chronic stress and health challenges, creating a deeply relatable discussion around leadership, self-awareness and the importance of protecting your wellbeing while building a successful career.

More than anything, this episode is a reminder that success in property management should never come at the expense of your health, relationships or sense of self. It’s a conversation about learning to slow down, listen to your body and create a more sustainable way of living and leading. Whether you’re a business owner, department head or property manager feeling stretched too thin, I hope this episode leaves you feeling seen, supported and encouraged to approach both life and business with more intention, clarity and compassion.

““I think it’s really important – when we are in our industry, it is stressful. Being a property manager is a really stressful place to be. If you are actually not regulated within your day-to-day life, then it will feed back into your work.”

- Melissa Hickson

We cover:

• The impact of chronic stress and burnout in the property management industry.
• Personal experiences of stress and mental health challenges faced by industry professionals.
• Signs and symptoms of nervous system dysregulation, including emotional and physical manifestations.
• The importance of recognizing and addressing nervous system dysregulation for overall well-being.
• Techniques for regulating the nervous system, such as breathwork and grounding practices.
• The role of energetic healing practices, including Reiki and Kundalini energy work, in managing stress.
• The transformative effects of breathwork and energetic practices on personal and professional life.
• The connection between personal well-being and professional effectiveness in property management.
• The importance of open conversations about mental health and stress management in the workplace.
• Resources and support available for individuals seeking to improve their mental health and manage stress.

A big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo.

Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.

Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:

http://ailo.io/tpm

Follow Ailo:

https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Melissa Hickson:

https://prpm.com.au/our-team-melissa-hickson/

0422 071 572

[email protected]

https://www.instagram.com/melissahicksonpmspecialist/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Patrick Mears shares a refreshingly honest perspective on what success in property management can actually look like – and it’s not always tied to bigger portfolios, larger teams or chasing endless growth. After years of building his business, Patrick reached a turning point where he realised that more management didn’t automatically equal more freedom, profit or happiness. Instead, he made the conscious decision to build a business that supports the life he wants, not one that consumes it. His approach is a powerful reminder that sustainable growth starts with clarity around your values, your goals and the lifestyle you’re trying to create.

This conversation also unpacks the hidden cost of discounting in property management and why so many business owners unknowingly sacrifice profit, team sustainability and service quality in the pursuit of growth. Pat shares his philosophy around attracting quality clients through reputation, consistency and word of mouth rather than competing on price. There’s so much value here for business owners feeling pressure to constantly grow, especially in an industry where vanity metrics can easily distract from what’s actually creating a healthy, profitable business behind the scenes.

What stood out most for me was his perspective on freedom – not in the flashy sense, but in the everyday moments that matter. Being able to pick his boys up from daycare, attend swimming lessons, step away from difficult clients and create boundaries around how he works has become his definition of success. It’s such an important conversation for anyone in property management who feels stretched too thin, overwhelmed by expectations or caught in the trap of believing bigger always means better.

“I'm my own competition, so if I want to grow by ten this month, then I have to do that work and not have to go out and steal from other people or beat everyone. Just compete against yourself and work out what you need, what you want, as opposed to what other people are sprouting on social media or whatever, how many they've signed and that sort of thing.”

- Patrick Mears

We cover:

• Growth in the property management industry and its misconceptions
• The relationship between business size and success
• Personal experiences and journey of a property management business owner
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on business perspectives
• Importance of work-life balance and aligning business goals with personal values
• Strategies for maintaining profitability without discounting services
• The significance of quality client relationships over quantity
• Efficient business management practices and the use of technology
• The value of networking and collaboration within the industry
• Advice for property managers on managing growth pressures and focusing on personal goals

A big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo.

Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.

Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:

http://ailo.io/tpm

Follow Ailo:

https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Patrick Mears:

https://www.rubixrealty.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/rubixrealty/

https://www.facebook.com/Rubix.Realty

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickmearspropertymanager/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Growing a business can look strong and successful from the outside, but what’s happening behind the scenes often tells a very different story. In this episode, I sit down with Elizabeth Hood, founder of Elite Real Estate, to unpack the reality of building a business while navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. From launching her agency with limited resources to facing personal loss, single parenthood, and a life-altering health diagnosis, Elizabeth shares the moments that reshaped not just her business, but her entire perspective.

One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is how easy it is to become conditioned to “push through” at all costs. In high-pressure industries like property management, that constant drive can feel normal – even necessary. But Elizabeth’s experience highlights what happens when that mindset goes unchecked. Operating in a constant state of urgency, ignoring physical warning signs, and prioritising everything else above your own wellbeing can slowly take its toll, often without you realising until you’re forced to stop.

At the centre of it all is a shift in how success is defined. Elizabeth now approaches her business and life with a completely different lens – one that values energy, presence, and intentional boundaries just as much as growth. By creating space to rest, disconnect, and be fully present with her family, she’s found a more sustainable way to move forward. For anyone feeling stretched or stuck in the cycle of doing more, this episode offers a grounded reminder: building a thriving business should never come at the expense of the life you’re working so hard to create.

“I think when you give, like you think you're giving your best to people, but when you're running at 10%. It's not your best.”

- Elizabeth Hood

We cover:

• Overcoming personal and professional challenges in real estate.
• The impact of mindset on healing and success.
• Navigating cancer while managing a business and family.
• The emotional toll of burnout and stress.
• The importance of integrity and relationships in business.
• Building a business with strong values and community focus.
• Strategies for maintaining a positive mindset and emotional control.
• The significance of setting boundaries and prioritizing health.
• The transformative effects of personal experiences on family and business.
• Empowering others to achieve balance without sacrificing health or values.

A big Shout out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo.

Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.

Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:

http://ailo.io/tpm

Follow Ailo:

https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Elizabeth Hood:

https://www.elitere.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/eliterockhampton/

https://www.facebook.com/elizabethhoodsells

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-hood-85a7b852/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Building a high-performing business isn’t about doing more–it’s about doing the right things, consistently and with clarity. When I sat down with Maria Findikakis, we explored what really sits behind businesses that grow without burning out their people. With decades of experience across sales, leadership, and business ownership, Maria brings a practical, no-nonsense perspective to what actually works. What really landed for me is how quickly things can unravel when there’s a lack of structure and connection. Without clear roles, strong communication, and shared direction, even the most ambitious growth plans can create more pressure than progress.

There’s a strong theme here around shifting from reactive habits to intentional leadership. In an industry where everything can feel urgent, it’s easy to fall into constant firefighting. But the difference in high-performing teams is found in the small, consistent disciplines–planning ahead, staying connected daily, and creating visibility across the business without overcomplicating it. Maria shares how simple rhythms, like short team check-ins and clarity around priorities, can completely change the energy of a workplace. It’s not about adding more to your plate, it’s about creating alignment so everyone is moving in the same direction.

At the heart of it all is people. The way you build, support, and lead your team will always shape the outcome of your business. There’s a clear reminder that culture is something you actively create through your decisions, your standards, and who you choose to keep in the room. When people understand their role, feel supported in it, and are surrounded by the right environment, performance becomes a natural outcome. For property management professionals, this is where long-term success is built–not just in growth, but in creating a business that feels sustainable, rewarding, and aligned with the life you actually want to live.

“Letting go is not losing control. It’s actually creating more capacity to do more of the things that you’re supposed to be doing.”

- Maria Findikakis

We cover:

• Importance of business culture in real estate
• Role of structure in successful business operations
• Daily operational habits that contribute to success
• Personal journey from takeaway business to real estate
• Significance of delegation and role clarity
• Common cultural mistakes in real estate businesses
• Strategies for effective communication within teams
• Impact of daily planning on productivity
• Use of technology for project management and accountability
• Continuous learning and personal development for leaders

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Maria Findikakis:

https://www.instagram.com/maria_findikakis/

https://agentsagency.au/home

[email protected]

BLAC_SALT: https://blacsalt.au/

Agents’Agency: https://agentsagency.au/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariafindikakis/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Calm in a crisis isn’t about personality–it’s about intention, self-awareness, and leadership. I’m joined by Amy, General Manager at McGrath Blackburn, who brings more than 20 years of experience across every facet of real estate from reception through to senior leadership. That breadth of experience shows in the way she leads today: grounded, measured, and deeply aware of the impact her response has on her team. What really stood out is the ripple effect of how we show up in high-pressure moments. Whether it’s a difficult eviction, a threatening situation, or a team issue escalating unnecessarily, your response sets the emotional tone for everyone around you. Teams don’t thrive in chaos–they look for safety, clarity, and direction.

There’s a powerful reminder here that not everything urgent is truly important. In property management, everything can feel like a crisis if you let it–but learning to separate emotion from action is where growth happens. Amy shares how she’s trained herself to sit with situations rather than react instantly, asking better questions and focusing on solutions over drama. It’s not about being perfect or never feeling overwhelmed—it’s about building the self-awareness to recognise when you’re reacting versus responding, and making small, consistent changes that lead to better decisions over time.

What ties it all together is perspective. Life experience, especially personal loss, has a way of refining what really matters, and that perspective shapes how we lead, work, and live. When you understand your energy is finite, you become far more intentional with where you spend it. From creating space to decompress, to leaning on trusted mentors, to consciously choosing how you walk into both your workplace and your home life–these are the habits that support longevity in this industry. Because success in property management isn’t just about performance it’s about how sustainably you can show up, lead, and live.

“No one comes to work to enter a space of chaos. They look for safe spaces.”

- Amy Blackburn

We cover:

• Strategies for staying calm during crisis situations in property management and real estate.
• The importance of leadership in maintaining a composed work environment.
• Personal journey of developing self-awareness and emotional control.
• Impact of personal hardships on professional behavior and crisis management.
• Changes in the property management industry and the need to manage increasing pressures.
• Techniques for maintaining work-life balance and mental health.
• The role of transparency and vulnerability in leadership.
• Approaches to handling high-stress personalities and workplace drama.
• The value of mentorship and building a professional network.
• Creating safe spaces for team members to foster growth and well-being.

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Amy Blackburn:

https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agents/amy-blackburn-a1VRE000000froL2AQ

[email protected]

0419 008 497

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-blackburn-b5b717185/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Change in property management isn’t slowing down–and if anything, it’s accelerating. In this conversation with Kasey Lawrence from The Rental Network, one of Australia’s leading voices in property management training and reform, we unpacked a powerful truth: change itself isn’t the problem… It's how we approach it. When we shift from reacting to leading, everything starts to feel more manageable. The professionals who are thriving right now aren’t the ones with fewer challenges–they’re the ones who have normalised change as part of the role and positioned themselves as the calm, confident voice their clients need.

There’s a real opportunity here for leaders to step up and take ownership of education within their businesses. When your team knows they can come to you for clarity, guidance, and direction, it removes uncertainty and builds confidence across the board. And that confidence flows outward–to your clients, your conversations, and ultimately your results. Education isn’t just a box to tick; it’s the foundation for stronger teams, better service, and more resilient businesses.

What I love most is the perspective shift around legislation and industry changes. Instead of viewing them as obstacles, there’s power in recognising how many of these changes actually support us–giving us clearer boundaries, stronger frameworks, and better tools to manage expectations. When we lean into that, communicate proactively, and stay grounded in our role as trusted advisors, we don’t just survive the shifts in this industry–we lead through them with purpose.

“So the leaders need to lead with positivity, lead with education, and make sure that their team are completely empowered through their own education and knowledge that they can confidently have conversations with their clients around this new legislation without feeling that uncertainty or stress or sweaty palms if a conversation comes up about the new regulations.”

- Kasey Lawrence

We cover:

• Rapid changes in the property management industry
• Mindset shifts necessary for adapting to industry changes
• Empowering property managers and teams through education
• Navigating new legislation and industry reforms
• Challenges related to rental reforms in Victoria
• Importance of leadership in managing change
• Proactive education as a key strategy for success
• Maintaining personal well-being in a changing landscape
• Community engagement within the rental industry
• Support services offered, including rental department health checks and workshops

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Kasey Lawrence:

https://www.instagram.com/the.rental.network/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-lawrencetrn/

https://therentalnetwork.com.au/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Understanding your numbers is one of the most important shifts a property management business owner can make, because financial confidence changes the way you lead, grow and plan ahead. This conversation with Travis Whelan unpacks the difference between being busy and being financially solid, showing why clear reporting, clean data and a real grasp of your business performance matter so much. There is a grounded practicality to this discussion too, with a strong focus on making informed decisions rather than operating from assumption, avoidance or overwhelm.

What really lands is the connection between financial structure and future opportunity. Whether you are building organically, considering acquisitions or thinking about an eventual exit, the strength of your rent roll comes back to far more than the number of properties under management. Fee structure, profitability, wage control, ancillary income and operational efficiency all play a role in how the business performs and how it is viewed by buyers and lenders. It is a timely reminder that strong businesses are built deliberately, with visibility around what is working, what is draining resources and where greater discipline is needed.

There is also an important conversation here around tax, cash flow and the habits that support long-term stability. Travis speaks candidly about the risks of poor financial management and why staying on top of obligations early can protect both your business and your peace of mind. Paired with the bigger-picture discussion around readiness, strategy and sustainable growth, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective for business owners who want to create something that is not only successful on the surface, but well-run, resilient and prepared for what comes next.

“If you don't have yourself sale ready from day one, it's going to make it a lot harder.”

- Travis Whelan

We cover:

• Understanding financials in property management businesses, particularly rent rolls.
• Key financial concepts: profit and loss statements, cash vs. accrual accounting.
• Importance of clear financials when buying or selling a rent roll.
• Characteristics of a healthy and saleable rent roll, including management fees and vacancy rates.
• Preparing financials for sale: timing and necessary documentation.
• The impact of staffing and wage costs on profitability.
• Benchmarks for profitability and wage costs in property management.
• Considerations for buying rent rolls in different states and compliance requirements.
• The five C's of credit and their relevance to rent roll finance.
• Tax management and obligations, including dealing with the ATO.

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Travis Whelan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-whelan-418421a2/

https://www.therentrollfinancebroker.com.au/

0422 608 757

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/therentrollfinancebroker

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Sarah Smith’s journey is a powerful reminder that growth in business is rarely about waiting for the right moment – it’s about deciding, committing and backing yourself before you feel ready. From starting at her dining room table with a whiteboard and a clear target, to building rapid momentum through disciplined action, her story highlights what’s possible when strategy meets consistency. There’s an honesty in how she shares the process too – the resistance, the fear, and the reality of doing the work even when you don’t enjoy it.

What stands out is the balance between relentless execution and intentional thinking. From building a highly targeted database to committing to daily prospecting, Sarah leaned into the fundamentals that many avoid, and turned them into a growth engine. At the same time, her experience with acquisition reveals the other side of scaling – the complexity, the risk, and the importance of knowing your numbers, your capacity and your long-term vision before making big moves.

This conversation also brings a strong focus to leadership, mindset and the infrastructure required to sustain success. Growth at speed demands more than just effort – it requires systems, support and the ability to evolve quickly as the business expands. Whether it’s navigating uncertainty, building the right network around you, or creating processes that allow your team to thrive, there’s a clear message here: sustainable growth is built with intention, resilience and a willingness to keep moving forward, even when it feels uncomfortable.

“You just have to outrun your losses and continue to do everything you're doing.”

- Sarah Smith

We cover:

• Growth strategies in the property management business
• Combining organic growth with acquisitions for sustained momentum
• Personal journey from corporate property management to agency ownership
• Challenges faced during the transition to business ownership
• Importance of building a strong database and effective contact management
• Balancing business growth with family life and responsibilities
• Role of fear and risk management in entrepreneurship
• Utilizing technology and support systems for business efficiency
• Developing talent internally versus relying on external recruitment
• Building a strong professional network for support and collaboration

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Sarah Smith:

https://themodernagent.com.au/

0438 206 902

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahdickenson/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

The idea of becoming an attraction agent sounds simple, but in reality it requires a very different approach to how many businesses operate day to day. Instead of constantly chasing leads, referrals and growth, the focus shifts to building a presence where opportunities come to you. This conversation explores what actually drives that shift – from how you show up in your market, to how you communicate your value, and the consistency required to build trust over time.

I’m joined by Tara Bradbury, Director of Active Agents in Hervey Bay, who shares her experience across property management, BDM and business ownership. Tara offers a grounded and practical perspective on what it takes to stand out, especially when starting from zero. From community involvement and client experience to social media visibility, reputation management and leveraging the right technology, she breaks down how strong, sustainable growth is built through intentional actions rather than quick wins.

There is also a clear message here for leaders navigating growth in a changing market. Relying on one source of business or outdated processes is no longer enough. Agencies need to stay adaptable, regularly review their strategies and ensure their systems genuinely support the experience they promise. For property managers, BDMs and business owners, this is a conversation that challenges the traditional hustle mindset and offers a smarter, more sustainable way to build momentum and long-term success.

“It’s not who you know. It’s who knows you. That is the most important thing out there.”

- Tara Bradbury

We cover:

1. Concept of becoming an "attraction agent" in property management
2. Transition from chasing leads to attracting business through reputation and trust
3. Importance of aligning business development strategies with personal comfort levels
4. Role of transparency, confidence, and trust in investor-agent relationships
5. Utilization of technology and software for enhanced property management services
6. Impact of social media and community engagement on visibility and client attraction
7. Strategies for handling client feedback and reputation management
8. Balancing professional commitments with personal life in property management
9. Importance of ongoing education and personal development resources
10. Encouragement for agents to be proactive and adaptable in their business approaches

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Tara Bradbury:

https://activeagents.com.au/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Technology is moving fast, but speed alone is not the goal. What matters is whether the tools we adopt are genuinely reducing the low-value, repetitive work that keeps property managers stuck in constant reaction mode. This conversation explores the difference between software that simply creates more task lists and software that actually removes friction, automates decision pathways, and frees up time for the work that really matters – communication, strategy, relationships, and service.

I’m joined by Curtis Thompson, CEO of Our Property, who brings decades of experience building and scaling software businesses. Curtis brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the role of AI and automation in property management. Rather than replacing people, the real opportunity lies in repositioning them. When repetitive admin, follow-up, and workflow coordination are handled more intelligently, property managers can step further into advisory conversations, stronger landlord relationships, and better commercial outcomes. It is a thoughtful reminder that the future of this industry will not be built on busyness, but on better systems, better decisions, and a clearer understanding of where human value is best placed.

There is also an important leadership lens woven through this discussion. As our industry faces increasing pressure on profit, staffing, and service delivery, agencies cannot afford to keep layering technology on top of broken processes. The smarter approach is to step back, rethink the ideal operating model, and then choose solutions that support that vision. For principals, BDMs, and department leaders, this is a timely conversation about change, mindset, and what it will take to build a more scalable, sustainable property management business in the years ahead.

“Are we solving real operational problems or just layering technology on top of inefficiency?”

- Curtis Thomson

We cover:

1. The role of technology, software, AI, and automation in property management.
2. Challenges of repetitive administrative tasks in property management.
3. The importance of automating busy work to enhance property manager efficiency.
4. The potential of AI to support decision-making and improve operational processes.
5. The necessity of human involvement in property management despite automation.
6. Strategies for agencies to evaluate and adopt new technology effectively.
7. The emotional journey of change management within property management teams.
8. Continuous innovation and the importance of user feedback in software development.
9. The concept of "moonshots" in proptech and ambitious strategic changes.
10. Personal development and leadership strategies for effective problem-solving and team empowerment.

Kylie’s Resources:

Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool

Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool

That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/

The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate

Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call

Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/

Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call

35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-media

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replay

Digital Marketing and AI Academy

https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyes

Connect with Curtis Thomson:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtisthomson/

https://www.ourproperty.com.au/

Connect With Kylie:

Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/

Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymum

Connect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...

Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/

Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum