271. Why Tough Conversations Make You a Stronger Leader

Ever find yourself avoiding a hard conversation—hoping the issue will just disappear? We’ve been there. And we’ve learned the hard way that silence doesn’t solve problems; it feeds them. In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most important (and uncomfortable) skills in leadership: having tough conversations.We are pulling back the curtain on the real work it takes to lean into hard talks—with your team, your clients, even your family. From owning your part in a conflict to setting the right tone for a private meeting, we’re walking through our go-to strategies for facing confrontation with confidence and care.You’ll hear about the power of self-reflection, how to communicate expectations clearly, and why you should never start a tough conversation with “got a minute?” We’re also talking about what to do after the conversation—because how you recover and regroup matters just as much as how you show up in the moment.If you’ve been putting off a difficult conversation, this is your nudge to lean in. Because as we’ve learned, the relationship is the conversation.Resources:Read Fierce Conversations by Susan ScottConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Sometimes leadership advice doesn’t go far enough into the real-life dynamics we face—especially as female leaders building diverse teams. That’s why in today’s episode, we’re diving into a conversation you don’t hear often: how to lead, coach, and collaborate with the men in your empire.We are talking from experience—real stories, real lessons. From literal interpretation of instructions to the value of clarity, we explore what it actually looks like to manage men effectively without abandoning the power of feminine leadership. And yes, we’re talking about that balance of strength and vulnerability, how to use competition to drive results, and the one thing men often value even more than love: respect.If you’ve ever wondered how to bring strong male allies into your world—or how to lead them with confidence and authenticity—this episode is for you. Because building a big empire means leaning into who you are, leading with intention, and valuing diversity at every level.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Growth can be messy—and that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it might be the best indicator that you’re leveling up. In this episode, we’re talking about topgrading—what it means, how it shows up in your life, and why it’s such a powerful mindset shift for empire builders.We often hear the term “topgrading” in the context of people or talent, but today we’re expanding that definition. What if topgrading also meant rethinking your habits, upgrading your systems, and surrounding yourself with the people and environments that reflect the future you’re building?Join us as we talk through what it really looks like to topgrade your life—and give yourself permission to grow from the inside out.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeLearn more about Empire CircleConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

What’s your earliest memory of money? Was it joyful? Stressful? Scarce? Secure? For many of us, our childhood experiences with money still shape how we think, feel, and lead today. In this episode, Seychelle and Sarah open up about their personal money stories—and how those stories have influenced their financial habits, leadership styles, and sense of security.We dive into why every leader needs to understand not just their own relationship with money, but also the money stories of their people. From tithing to piggy banks, scarcity mindsets to abundance practices, we explore the foundational role money plays in our lives—and how to shift old patterns to build healthier financial habits.We also share practical tactics for talking to your team about money, teaching financial stewardship, and helping others build the reserves they need to weather any market shift. Because when times get tough, people revert to their programming. And it's our job as leaders to help them rewrite the script.Resources:Check out Her Best LifeHer Rich Life MasterclassConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

What if the biggest key to unlocking your potential isn’t out in the world—it’s already inside you?This week, we had the rare pleasure of flipping the script with Jason Abrams—host of the Millionaire Real Estate Agent Podcast, real estate titan, and someone we’ve admired for a long time. He’s usually the one asking the questions, but today, Jason let us in on his story, his wisdom, and the deeply personal lessons he’s carrying into the next chapter of his life.From being a self-proclaimed academic underachiever with a 1.8 GPA to becoming the Head of Industry at Keller Williams, Jason’s story is one of grit, purpose, and heart. We talk about the role his mother played in shaping his early confidence, how he learned to lead by influence instead of authority, and why his son is his biggest teacher right now.We also dive into how Jason chooses what to read (and why reading with purpose is different from being an intellectual tourist), the moments that shaped his views on love and leadership, and the wisdom he’s gained from hundreds of interviews with top performers in business and life.And we get personal. Jason shares what he hopes to leave his son, how he's approaching legacy through a video library, and why relationships—not success or stuff—are the next frontier of growth for him.Trust us, this episode is filled with gold. You’ll walk away thinking differently about leadership, purpose, and the people who help unlock the best parts of who we are.Resources:Listen to The Millionaire Real Estate Agent PodcastConnect with Jason on LinkedInRead: Exactly What to Say by Phil M. Jones — A favorite for refining communication and leadership language.Read: Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre by Keith Johnstone — Cited for its relevance in mastering communication through improv.Read: Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? (And How to Fix It) by Tomas Chamorro-PremuzicConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Finding the right person to lead your business isn’t just about making the right hire—it’s about understanding the true value you offer and being bold enough to share it. In this very special first-of-its-kind episode, Tiffany invited Sarah to coach her live on the show about a challenge she’s been struggling with for five years: how to attract the right leadership to her team.You’ll hear us dig into the root of what’s been holding Tiffany back, and why so many women in business struggle to articulate the value of what we’ve built. And as Sarah starts to pull stories out of her—stories she doesn’t often share—Tiffany was reminded just how much impact she’s made through her business.If you’ve ever felt like you’re not telling your story well enough—or if you’re second-guessing whether people really understand the opportunity to work with you—this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with concrete language shifts, sales strategies, and a reminder that you’re not “bragging”—you’re sharing what’s possible when people partner with you.Resources:Check out EmpowerHome Team Growth LadderLearn more about the Empire Circle at Her Best LifeConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

What if I told you your emotional intelligence could be your biggest sales superpower? In this episode, we’re diving into exactly that. Emotional intelligence—or EQ—isn’t just about understanding others. It’s about using that understanding to make more sales, build stronger relationships, and grow a bigger, more sustainable empire.We’re breaking down three key ways EQ shows up in sales: reading the room and understanding your clients, regulating your own emotions in high-stakes moments, and using empathy to influence without pressure. From mirroring tone and body language to the power of labeling your client's emotions, we’re sharing real stories (including a few early-career sales meltdowns!) and tactical tips to help you master the art of connecting.If you’ve ever felt like you lost a deal because you were too pushy—or not pushy enough—this episode will shift your perspective. EQ isn’t just a “soft skill.” It’s a sales strategy. And when you start tapping into it, you’ll find that trust builds faster, clients open up more, and the close almost happens naturally.Whether you’re a seasoned sales pro or just trying to find your footing, this conversation will help you lead with connection—and ultimately, win more deals. So grab your notebook, your coffee, and your big empire energy. Let’s build.Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The guest's views, thoughts, and opinions represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.WARNING! You must comply with the TCPA and any other federal, state or local laws, including for B2B calls and texts. Never call or text a number on any Do Not Call list, and do not use an autodialer or artificial voice or prerecorded messages without proper consent. Contact your attorney to ensure your compliance.

What does it take to build a career that aligns with your strengths, supports your personal life, and fuels your passion? In this episode, we continue our conversation with Anna Krueger, diving into how she strategically designed a career that gives her both financial success and the freedom to live on her terms. After years of navigating personal challenges—including being a full-time caretaker for her mother—Anna knew she needed a role that not only leveraged her natural talents but also provided the flexibility to prioritize what mattered most.From stepping into the world of real estate inside sales to becoming a sought-after coach and trainer, Anna shares how she identified opportunities, created her own path, and fiercely protected her time and energy. She discusses the power of StrengthsFinder in shaping her career, the importance of time blocking and boundaries, and how she transitioned from one-on-one coaching to scalable training programs that maximize her impact. Her journey is a testament to the idea that success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working in alignment with who you are.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a role that doesn’t quite fit or wondered how to create a career that truly supports your life, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Anna’s story proves that the best way forward isn’t always conventional, but with intention and strategy, you can craft a business and life you love.Resources:Sparking Progress – Anna’s website, where you can find coaching, training, and her new Tiny Courses.CliftonStrengths AssessmentConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The guest's views, thoughts, and opinions represent those of the guest and not KWRI and its affiliates and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn and forces you to reinvent yourself? Anna Krueger knows firsthand how to pivot, persevere, and turn life’s challenges into a career of impact. From starting as a high school teacher in Baltimore to unexpectedly landing in sales—a field she swore she’d never touch—Anna’s journey is proof that sometimes the best opportunities come from the most unlikely places. When she discovered a passion for training and coaching, she didn’t wait for permission; she created her own role, convinced leadership to support her vision, and built a career that aligned with her strengths.But reinvention isn’t always by choice. Anna’s life changed overnight when she became a full-time caretaker for her mother after a devastating stage four cancer diagnosis. Suddenly, the career she had worked so hard to build had to fit around hospital visits, late-night ER trips, and the weight of navigating an uncertain future. She shares how she managed work and grief, the moments of light in an otherwise dark season, and the lessons she learned about resilience, friendship, and the power of community.Anna’s story is raw, real, and full of insights for anyone navigating career shifts or personal trials. Whether you’re facing a major life transition or simply wondering if you’re on the right path, this episode is a testament to the power of adaptability and the importance of building a life—not just a business—that truly supports you.Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive into how Anna turned these experiences into a thriving career that empowers others!Resources:Sparking Progress – Anna’s website, where you can find coaching, training, and her new Tiny Courses.CliftonStrengths AssessmentConnect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The guest's views, thoughts, and opinions represent those of the guest and not KWRI and its affiliates and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Picture this: You’ve built a successful business, and now you’re wondering, “What’s next?” How do you take what you’ve learned and scale it into a thriving empire? If that’s where you are, today’s episode is for you.We’re breaking down the 10 steps to building and scaling multiple businesses—the simple (but not easy) way. From understanding your strengths as a leader to creating systems that run without you, we’ll walk you through how to structure, scale, and sustain multiple ventures without losing momentum.We’re taking inspiration from visionaries like Walt Disney, who transformed a single idea into a multi-billion dollar empire through vertical integration and strategic growth. Whether you’re looking to expand within your current industry or create synergistic businesses that build off one another, these steps will help you get there.Resources:StrengthsFinderKPAA Great Hire in 9 Steps | Empire Building (EP. 211)The 8-Step Hiring Process That Could Save You Millions (Part 1)The 8-Step Hiring Process That Could Save You Millions (Part 2)The 8-Step Hiring Process That Could Save You Millions (Part 3)Connect on Instagram:Seychelle Van Poole: @seychellevpSarah Reynolds: @sarahreynoldsojiWendy Papasan: @wendypapasanKymber Lovett-Menkiti: @kymbermenkitiTiffany Fykes: @tiffanyfykesProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The guest's views, thoughts, and opinions represent those of the guest and not KWRI and its affiliates and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.