As real estate agents or investors, we’re often focused on the next deal—but what happens when the pursuit of success takes you down a path you never expected? This episode offers a powerful reminder of the importance of decision-making, adaptability, and long-term perspective. Portia Louder’s story provides valuable lessons on the risks and realities behind high-stakes deals—and how personal growth can emerge from even the toughest challenges.

In this episode, Portia Louder opens up about her incredible journey through navigating hard money loans and equity deals to spending five years in federal prison. Now an author of two powerful books, Living Louder: A Compassionate Journey Through Federal Prison and Born to Be Brave: A Compassionate Journey Through Life, Portia shares insights on resilience, personal growth, and the importance of integrity. Her story is a raw and inspiring testament to the power of family, the strength of the human spirit, and the impact of authentic storytelling.

Rebecca Green + Co. -https://www.rebeccagreen.co

Kim Borcherding- @heykimborcherding

Portia Louder- https://www.portialouder.com

Takeaways:

• The experience of prison led to a profound personal transformation.
• She realized the importance of facing her mistakes and taking responsibility for her actions.
• Portia found purpose in teaching and supporting other women in prison.
• Portia learned that money is not as important as relationships and moments.
• Sharing her story is a way to inspire others and break the stigma around incarceration.
• Portia's journey highlights the power of resilience and personal growth.
• Reflection on past mistakes can lead to personal growth.

What if I told you that you don’t have to navigate the real estate world alone? This podcast was created for women just like you—agents juggling business, life, and everything in between—who crave real conversations, heartfelt support, and practical wisdom. Join Rebecca Green, Kim Borcherding, and Kim Buckner as they share their journeys, lessons, and laughter to remind you that success is sweeter when it’s shared. Let’s grow together—press play when you’re ready.

In this episode of How to Real Estate Today, we’re sitting down with Kim Buckner—a Real Estate Coach for Women, Course Creator, and proud new Grandma—to talk about what it really takes to juggle family life and a thriving real estate business. From boundary-setting and burnout to raising the bar when business gets slow, Kim brings the kind of perspective every woman in real estate needs to hear. We dive into how the industry often pushes women to compromise their time, energy, and standards—and why it’s time to stop. Plus, Kim shares her latest passion project: the W.I.R.E Mastermind (Women in Real Estate) launching April 30th, and her brand new Buyer & Seller Guide templates that are helping agents show up more confidently in any market. If you’ve ever struggled with saying no, felt isolated in your career, or wondered how to build a business that works with your life, not against it—this one’s for you.

📍Rebecca Green + Co. -https://www.rebeccagreen.co

📍Kim Borcherding- @heykimborcherding

📍Kim Buckner- Women in Real Estate- https://www.kimbucknerrealtor.com/wire

Takeaways:

• Building a real estate career takes time and experience.
• Authentic coaching is essential for individual growth.
• Women in real estate can benefit from supportive communities.
• Maintaining high standards is crucial, especially in tough markets.
• Mindset plays a significant role in achieving success.
• Agents should focus on building their own equity.
• Managing expectations is key to avoiding burnout.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for success. Get comfortable with saying no to maintain balance.
• Clients may not remember specific details but will remember how they felt.
• Don't sacrifice personal time for clients who won't appreciate it.

In this episode, Rebecca Green and Kim Borcherding discuss how real estate agents can identify opportunities in a slow market. They emphasize the importance of targeting downsizers, leveraging databases for market insights, and building referral networks to enhance business. The conversation highlights the need for education and resources for clients, particularly seniors, and the potential for investment in various markets despite current challenges.

Takeaways:

• Focus on downsizers as a key market opportunity.
• Educate clients about the real estate process and resources available.
• Build trust with seniors by providing valuable information.
• Leverage your database to understand market trends and opportunities.
• Explore investment opportunities in markets outside your own.
• Utilize referral networks to assist clients moving to different areas.
• Stay proactive in seeking opportunities in any market condition.
• Offer seminars and classes to educate clients and build relationships.
• Understand traffic patterns to better serve your clients.
• Always look for deals, especially in down markets.

In this episode, Rebecca Green and Kim Borcherding discuss the current state of the real estate market, characterized as 'weird' due to fluctuating prices, high interest rates, and affordability challenges. They explore the implications for buyers, sellers, and agents, emphasizing the need for strategic thinking and adaptability in a changing landscape. The conversation highlights opportunities for both buyers and sellers, despite the market's challenges, and offers practical advice for real estate agents to thrive in this environment.

Takeaways:

• The current real estate market is described as 'weird' due to various factors.
• Home ownership costs have escalated, making it less affordable for many.
• Interest rates have risen significantly, impacting buyer affordability.
• The 'lock-in effect' keeps many homeowners from selling their low-rate mortgages.
• There are still opportunities for buyers and sellers in specific markets.
• Real estate agents need to adapt their strategies to survive and thrive.
• Personal development and energy management are crucial for agents in a tough market.
• Evaluating expenses and cutting unnecessary costs is essential for agents.
• Building a business requires proactive lead generation and client engagement.
• Understanding market dynamics is key for making informed decisions.

In this episode, Rebecca Green and Kim Borcherding discuss the pros and cons of being a solo agent versus being part of a team in the real estate industry. They explore the motivations behind choosing either path, the importance of self-motivation and knowledge-seeking for solo agents, and the benefits of collaboration and support within a team. The conversation also delves into how to find the right team for agents looking to transition, emphasizing the need for alignment in goals and values. The episode concludes with practical advice for agents at different stages of their careers.

Takeaways

• Being a solo agent requires self-motivation and a thirst for knowledge.
• The flexibility of being a solo agent can be appealing but comes with challenges.
• Collaboration and support are key benefits of being on a team.
• Choosing the right team is crucial for success in real estate.
• Agents should seek out mentorship and community, even as solo agents.
• Understanding your own needs is essential when looking for a team.
• The learning curve is significantly shorter on a team due to shared experiences.
• Not all teams are created equal; vetting is important.
• Expectations and responsibilities should be clear when joining a team.
• Finding the right fit can greatly impact an agent's career trajectory.

.

We are discussing essential strategies for real estate agents to implement at the start of the year. These strategies emphasize the importance of self-care, business planning, evaluating brokerage options, and committing to continuous learning. The discussion highlights actionable steps agents can take to ensure a successful year ahead, including creating marketing plans and understanding financial health.

In this episode, hosts Kim Borcherding and Rebecca Green reflect on their experiences in 2024, discussing the importance of evaluating both successes and failures. They emphasize the need to celebrate wins, build community, and take action as key components of personal and professional growth. The conversation also touches on areas for improvement, the significance of maintaining momentum, and setting intentions for the upcoming year.

Takeaways

• Reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Celebrating wins can motivate and energize future efforts.
• Building a supportive community is essential for success.
• Taking action is a key differentiator between success and failure.
• Setting clear boundaries helps protect energy and focus.
• Identifying areas for improvement is necessary for growth.
• Maintaining momentum is vital for ongoing success.
• Small, consistent actions lead to significant results over time.
• Intentionality in actions can make anything possible.
• Evaluating both successes and failures provides valuable insights.

In this conversation, Rebecca and Kim delve into the significance of business planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's 'why' as a foundational element. They discuss the challenges individuals face in identifying their motivations and the vulnerability that comes with self-reflection. The conversation highlights various tools for self-discovery, such as the CliftonStrengths and Enneagram tests, and stresses the need for ongoing evaluation of business plans. The hosts also touch on the impact of business planning on personal life and relationships, advocating for daily practices that keep individuals aligned with their goals.

Takeaways

• Business planning is essential for success in real estate.
• Understanding your 'why' is crucial for motivation.
• Self-reflection can be challenging but necessary.
• Tools like CliftonStrengths can aid in self-discovery.
• Business plans should evolve with your life circumstances.
• Identifying weaknesses is key to personal growth.
• Daily practices help maintain focus on goals.
• Vulnerability is part of the process of self-discovery.
• Your motivations can change over time.
• Writing down goals can reinforce commitment.

"It's so much more than just the numbers."

"You have to know your why."

"It's important to recognize your weaknesses."

"Your why is going to evolve over time."

"Write it down every day."

"Business planning is not just about numbers."