In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Melissa Cruz discuss:

• Vision casting with 10–5–3–1 year planning

• Aligning daily time blocks with long-term goals

• Using color-coded "buckets" to organize calendar time

• Prioritizing revenue-producing activities over admin tasks

• Protecting me-time and family time to avoid burnout

Key Takeaways:

• Long-term vision (10, 5, 3, and 1 years out) should drive what you do today, not the other way around.

• Time blocking works best when you categorize your life into clear "buckets" like lead generation, customer retention, admin, personal development, me time, and family time.

• Revenue-producing activities must be scheduled first, not squeezed in around busywork, and many entrepreneurs feel exhausted because they're living in admin mode while believing they're building a business.

• Trying to do everything yourself keeps you stuck as the intern of your business instead of growing into the CEO role.

• Me time is not optional; it's the foundation that keeps your business and family life sustainable, and when you move your body, eat well, and nourish your mind, you show up with the energy and clarity needed to serve others at a higher level.

"Time is the only currency that we spend without ever knowing the balance. So choose wisely, spend it wisely, and make every single minute count."
- Melissa Cruz

About the guest, Melissa Cruz:

Melissa Cruz is a business coach dedicated to helping ambitious women build businesses and lives that align with their values—without sacrificing what matters most. As a mom, she understands the constant balancing act of family, business, and personal goals, which is why her coaching focuses on overcoming limiting beliefs, building with intention, and releasing the guilt that often comes with wanting it all. Melissa helps her clients create clarity, confidence, and momentum while staying grounded in who they are.

A natural problem-solver, Melissa guides women in turning challenges into opportunities for growth, whether that means improving time management, increasing productivity, or navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. In addition to coaching, she creates practical, experience-driven courses for real estate professionals, offering actionable strategies that lead to real results. Melissa believes success doesn't require compromise—when businesses are built on authenticity and aligned values, sustainable growth and fulfillment follow.

Connect with Melissa Cruz:

Email: iris.bloom.cruz@gmail.com

Phone: 904-679-2340

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irisbloomcoaching/

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Dan Mullen discuss:

• Planning ahead to avoid self‑employment tax "surprises."

• Using S‑corp elections to reduce self‑employment taxes

• Properly documenting travel, meals, and vehicle deductions

• Regular, proactive check‑ins with your accountant

• Investing in your own product: real estate for long‑term wealth

Key Takeaways:

• Proactive tax planning is non‑negotiable for agents who don't want to be blindsided at tax time.

• The S‑corp election can dramatically cut self‑employment taxes when structured correctly, and setting a reasonable salary and letting the rest flow as distributions is where much of the savings happens.

• Travel, meals, and vehicle deductions are powerful but highly audited, so documentation is everything, but clear board minutes, mileage logs, and receipts turn "red flag" categories into audit‑proof benefits.

• Treat quarterly taxes like a standing business appointment rather than an optional chore, with calendar reminders and regular check‑ins with your accountant keeping you out of panic mode and in control of cash flow.

• Truly wealthy agents don't just sell real estate—they own it.

"Real estate builds so much wealth. It does for even people living in their own homes. It certainly does for investors."
- Dan Mullen

About the guest, Dan Mullen:

Dan Mullen is a mortgage advisor and a partner at a tax firm, a combination that gives him a unique advantage in helping self-employed clients qualify for mortgages. Because these borrowers are underwritten using tax returns rather than W-2s and paystubs, Dan's deep understanding of tax documentation allows him to navigate the process more effectively. Having seen firsthand the pain and frustration caused by mortgage letter requests, he is on a personal crusade to help tax preparers avoid them and to bridge the gap between mortgage underwriters and tax professionals.

Connect with Dan Mullen:

Website: https://www.futureandmain.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielbmullen/

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Dave Rosenberg discuss:

• Radical accountability's three elements: mechanics, mindset, and modeling

• Importance of clear job descriptions, processes, and formal training with testing

• Counseling and curiosity instead of yelling when mistakes happen

• Leadership's impact on safety: fight/flight/freeze/fawn responses to toxic behavior

• Leaders must "walk the talk" to build trust, accountability, and high-performing teams

Key Takeaways:

• Radical accountability rests on three legs: mechanics, mindset, and modeling, and when any one of these is missing, performance, trust, and culture all suffer.

• Clear job descriptions, documented processes, and written policies remove "I didn't know" as an excuse.

• Training must be formal, repeatable, and include testing and practice (like role plays) because without proof of competence, leaders can't fairly hold people accountable or diagnose whether problems are systemic or personal.

• When leaders yell, they trigger fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses, not learning or growth, and the alternative is a calm "counseling" conversation that looks for either broken systems or misaligned behavior.

• Team members watch what leaders do more than what they say.

"If you want your team to grow, we need to grow as leaders. It's just that simple."
- Dave Rosenberg

About the guest, Dave Rosenberg:

Dave Rosenberg is a professional keynote speaker and leadership development consultant. He guides teams and leaders to foster a culture of accountability that accelerates results.

As a leading authority on high-performance leadership, accountability, and team dynamics, Dave Rosenberg is frequently hired as a leadership speaker, accountability speaker, and change management speaker. Dave's engaging, interactive, and insightful speaking style makes him a preferred keynote speaker for businesses aiming for the best conferences and events.

After 30+ years in leadership positions, Dave's leadership experience is practical, not theoretical. He has been the president of 4 organizations and has consulted with hundreds of companies across the United States. His clients represent a large cross-section of industry, from manufacturing, retail, construction, engineering, farming, trucking, communications, and service.

Connect with Dave Rosenberg:

Website: https://lockedonleadership.com/about-dave-rosenberg/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daverosenbergspeaks/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonleadership

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Dirk Zeller discuss:

• Timeless fundamentals of real estate: persuasion, communication, and objection handling

• Time management and focus are the biggest challenges for agents and entrepreneurs

• Importance of daily lead generation and prioritizing high-value, dollar-productive activities

• Power of practice and role play to master listing presentations and objections

• Building long-term wealth by investing in real estate, not just selling it

Key Takeaways:

• Time management is the core constraint for most agents, such as too much $25/hour work, not enough high-value, dollar-productive activity.

• Skill in persuasion, communication, and objection handling will always matter more than being good at social media trends because reels and TikToks may open doors, but it's your ability to guide clients through fear, anxiety, and decision-making that actually wins the business.

• Treat scripts, listing presentations, and objection handling like athletes treat drills—repetition off the field so you don't practice on live prospects.

• Focus is a competitive advantage in a world of constant pings, dings, and notifications, and turning devices off, setting clear boundaries, and creating distraction-free blocks of time is often the only way the compound effect of your actions can actually kick in.

• Real estate sales should be viewed as the engine that funds long-term wealth, not the end goal, and using your commissions to acquire and hold investment properties creates compounding, generational benefits that far exceed a single closed transaction.

"We're on the front lines of wealth creation, friends, in the real estate industry. And you got to get you some, and owning it is better than selling it."

- Dirk Zeller

About the guest, Dirk Zeller:

Dirk Zeller is recognized internationally as one of the premier speakers and coaches on sales, success, time management, and peak performance. Dirk's proven systems and strategies take ordinary performers and transform them into extraordinary performers. Zeller's strategies on wealth and success enable anyone to achieve financial independence in their life.

Connect with Dirk Zeller:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-zeller-a481b83a/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/RealEstateChampions/?_rdc=1&_rdr#

https://web.facebook.com/dirk.zeller1/?_rdc=1&_rdr#

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Clay Johnson discuss:

• Power and impact of daily habits

• Replacing bad habits instead of "dropping" them

• Starting each day with small, non‑negotiable wins

• Consistent, proactive communication in real estate

• Incremental growth by focusing on one to three habits at a time

Key Takeaways:

• Habits quietly run your life because when you train them intentionally, they become "autopilot" behaviors that move your business and life forward without relying on motivation or willpower.

• You can't just drop a bad habit; you must replace it.

• Simple, consistent morning victories like movement, reading, prayer/meditation prime your physical, mental, and emotional state to lead and serve at a higher level.

• In real estate, consistent communication is a superpower, especially when it's hard.

• Real change comes from focusing on a few key behaviors at a time, and instead of trying to overhaul everything in January, choose one to three habits, lock them in with consistency, then stack new ones only after those are solid.

"A habit is never dropped; it's replaced… What's a bad habit that we're going to lose, what's a good habit we've been wanting to pick up?"

-Clay Johnson

About the guest, Clay Johnson:

Clients looking for a smart mortgage consultant and a company that really cares go to Clay Johnson and Guaranteed Rate Affinity for all their home financing needs. They can count on him to listen and understand their vision, and stay committed to doing what's in their best interest. Clay knows that every client has different financial goals, so he takes the time to understand their vision in order to recommend smart mortgage solutions. As a consultant, he is backed by a dedicated team of loan assistants, processors, underwriters, and closing specialists. He and his team consistently deliver smart choices because they're highly trained and well-versed in all aspects of the industry. To find a smart home-financing solution, give Clay a call today!

Connect with Clay Johnson:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-johnson-a899989a/

Website: https://www.grarate.com/loan-officers/clay-johnson-33422

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClayJ.GRA/

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Verl Workman discuss:

• Leveraging relationship capital

• Building a vision-driven business

• Specializing and creating leverage

• Setting ambitious, unrealistic goals

• Developing a culture of accountability and productivity

Key Takeaways:

• Cultivating strong relationships and making deposits in others' lives can create a powerful network of support when you need it most.

• When you can articulate this vision and invite others to be a part of it, you unlock the potential for exponential growth and legacy-building.

• In a competitive market, being a generalist is a recipe for mediocrity.

• Conventional wisdom around "SMART" goals can be limiting; but instead, challenge yourself to set goals that seem unrealistic, as this forces you to think and act differently, ultimately driving greater success.

• Fostering an environment where accountability is a choice, not an imposition, is key to building a high-performing team.

"Accountability is love. It's not something you do to someone because you want to make them do something they don't want to do. It's that you love them so much that you know that that behavior is going to be destructive for their life, their business, their growth."

- Verl Workman

About the guest, Verl Workman:

Verl Workman is the Founder and CEO of Workman Success Systems, a renowned business coach, speaker, and consultant. With over 18 years of public speaking experience, he specializes in sales training, real estate marketing, and leveraging technology for peak performance. Verl has trained and motivated countless real estate agents and brokers, helping them achieve real results. As a seasoned entrepreneur and business owner, he excels in sales strategy, broker consulting, and keynote speaking.

Connect with Verl Workman:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verlworkman/

Website: https://workmansuccess.com/who-we-are/

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Nate Keller discuss:

• Connecting through music and dance

• Tailoring performance to the audience

• Embracing authenticity and honesty as a speaker

• Serving as Honorary Consul for Kyrgyzstan

• Inspiring others through fatherhood and mentorship

Key Takeaways:

• By representing the United States in international folk festivals, he has fostered meaningful connections and bridged cultural divides through the universal language of performance.

• Nate emphasizes the importance of understanding the event's purpose, the attendees' needs, and crafting a message that resonates authentically, rather than simply delivering a generic presentation.

• Embracing authenticity and honesty is a hallmark of Nate's approach to speaking and leadership.

• Nate's appointment as the Honorary Consul for Kyrgyzstan demonstrates his commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and diplomatic relationships on a global scale, and his experiences navigating the nuances of this role highlight the importance of adaptability and a willingness to learn in unfamiliar contexts.

• Nate's role as a devoted father to his daughter, Eden, has profoundly shaped his perspective on leadership and the power of mentorship.

"Make things happen because a lot of people don't even think about things, and if they do, that's where it ends, and they don't talk about them, and if they do, they don't do anything about it."

- Nate Keller

About the guest, Nate Keller:

Nate is the eldest son in a family of 10 children. He is the proud uncle of 49 nieces and nephews and the father to his sweet 7-year-old daughter, Eden. He holds a BA in Construction Management with a minor in Business from Brigham Young University. As a national real estate investor, he serves as the CEO of Keller Capital. Nate is also a Producer and Director for Utah's Stars & Friends, with recent productions featuring Dolly Parton and Idina Menzel. Proceeds from these events have benefited the Elizabeth Smart Foundation and Operation Underground Railroad.

Beyond his professional career, Nate has been deeply involved in the arts and community service. He has worked as the Stage Manager for the Stadium of Fire Talent Search and the Freedom Festival Patriotic Service and co-founded CineStage, a unique concert experience blending live music with movie theaters. He has served as the Master of Ceremonies for numerous events, including the Days of 47 Pageant, CVX Live YouTube Convention, and the Institute of American Music Fiddle Fest. Additionally, he mentors Utah Valley University students through the Center for Advanced Leadership and advises the Mayor of Provo as a member of the Provo City Foundation Advisory Board. A passionate musician, Nate plays the stringed bass in the Utah Valley Symphony, where he also serves as Board President, and has represented the USA as a banjo player in over 30 countries. He is the founder and Executive Director of the American Folk Ensemble and the American Folk Institute, furthering his dedication to preserving and celebrating folk traditions.

CONNECT WITH NATE KELLER:

Website: https://www.americanfolkensemble.org/nate-keller

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Sheryl Green discuss:

• Realizing your right and responsibility to set boundaries

• Identifying past "icky" situations to find where boundaries are needed

• Using the PEC system - Pause, Evaluate, Communicate

• Communicating boundaries graciously and with respect

• Seeking support to help set boundaries if needed

Key Takeaways:

• Boundaries are a Necessity, Not a Luxury. Recognizing your entitlement and responsibility to set boundaries is the first step. Ignoring this can lead to burnout, resentment, and even serious health consequences.

• Reflect on Past Experiences. Identifying past situations where you felt uncomfortable or resentful can reveal where your boundaries need to be strengthened. This self-awareness is crucial for building boundary-setting skills.

• Pause, Evaluate, Communicate. The PEC system provides a structured approach to setting boundaries effectively. Taking a moment to pause, evaluate the situation, and communicate your needs respectfully can make all the difference.

• Gracious, Not Grudging. Communicating boundaries in a kind, appreciative manner preserves relationships and demonstrates self-respect. Framing it as "not the right time" rather than a flat rejection can go a long way.

• Seek Support if Needed. If directly communicating a boundary feels too difficult, finding a trusted ally to help navigate the conversation can be a game-changer. Boundary-setting is a skill, and it's okay to ask for help.

"You have the right and the responsibility to set boundaries and you get to start today."

- Sheryl Green

About the guest, Sheryl Green:

Sheryl Green is a recovering people-pleaser who learned the hard way that boundaries aren't just a suggestion—they're a necessity. After years of putting everyone else first, she hit a breaking point and discovered the power of saying "no." Now, she helps individuals and organizations set healthy boundaries to improve relationships, communication, and well-being. With a background spanning Mental Health, Customer Service, Public Relations, Education, and Non-Profits, Sheryl brings a unique perspective to her work.

An accomplished author, Sheryl has written six books, including You Had Me at 'No' and Surviving to Thriving. A passionate animal advocate, she dedicates her time and resources to supporting animal welfare. When she's not writing or speaking, you'll find her with her husband and two fur babies, practicing yoga, or nurturing her ever-growing collection of houseplants.

CONNECT WITH SHERYL GREEN:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherylgreen/

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherylgreen/

How to Say No Cheat Sheet: https://mailchi.mp/b3930ac2d5d9/you-had-me-at-no

CONNECT WITH CHERYL:

Website: www.cherylknows.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.