Mastering Money, Mindset & CEO Strategies for Realtors with Staci Millard

Mastering Money, Mindset & CEO Strategies for Realtors with Staci Millard

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher Goetz sits down with Staci Millard, owner of Thrive Accounting, to explore how women in real estate can master their finances, adopt a CEO mindset, and grow their businesses intentionally. Staci shares insights from her journey as an entrepreneur, her approach to accounting and bookkeeping for realtors, and practical strategies for managing money, profits, and investments.  In this episode you will hear:  * [01:56] Staci shares her unique journey into entrepreneurship, emphasizing how her experience across multiple businesses shapes her approach to accounting and supporting business owners. * [04:43] Staci and Cher discuss where women in real estate often underestimate themselves, highlighting the importance of confidence, mentorship, and exposure to aspirational “rooms” where growth feels normal. * [09:30] Staci identifies common financial mistakes realtors make, including overlooking taxes and failing to track profitability, and emphasizes the need for intentional spending and reinvestment. * [11:59] The discussion expands to potential investments for realtors beyond transactions, including real estate, angel investing, sponsorships, and building value-driven partnerships. * [17:02] Cher and Staci explore the concept of realtors as CEOs, stressing the need to diversify income, manage finances strategically, and approach business with a long-term mindset. * [17:45] Staci provides actionable steps for developing a CEO mindset, including building scalable systems, managing finances, and creating income streams that do not rely solely on personal input. * [20:14] Staci outlines strategies for managing inconsistent income, emphasizing tracking committed expenses, lifestyle demands, and reverse-engineering sales targets to meet financial goals. * [23:50] They discuss how realtors can identify the best marketing strategies for their unique strengths, testing approaches rather than blindly following others’ successes. * [34:35] Staci provides expert advice on bookkeeping, write-offs, and accounting for realtors, explaining the importance of intention behind business expenses and separating personal and business finances. * [39:40] Cher and Staci explore the psychological impact of inconsistent income and financial management, highlighting systems that help manage stress and create stability. * [40:38] Staci offers guidance for women business owners who avoid dealing with money, encouraging small steps, hiring professionals, and intentionally building financial comfort. * [45:22] Staci shares her financial rules, focusing on profitability, ROI, and systems that create repeatable results to support long-term business success. * [53:39] Staci explains how Thrive Accounting differentiates itself by prioritizing client experience, providing clear, actionable financial reports, and supporting business owners year-round. Connect with Staci: Instagram: @thriveaccounting @staci.millard Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives. Instagram: @chergoetz_ Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca/] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co EFV Legal @elenafavaroviana | efvlegal.ca Amanda Walczyk | Saltbox Mortgages @saltboxmortgage_agent Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f [https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f]

Writing Your Debut Book as a Busy Entrepreneur

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cher takes listeners behind the scenes of her journey to writing her first book. She shares the real-life challenges of balancing her career as a realtor, coach, and mom while pursuing a long-held dream of becoming an author. Cher dives into the fears, self-doubt, and procrastination that many entrepreneurs face and offers actionable advice on staying aligned with your goals, defining your version of success, and taking bold steps forward in business and life. In this episode you will hear:  * [00:41] Cher explains that this solo episode will focus on her journey writing her first book and the process of manifesting it while balancing life and business. * [01:30] Cher reflects on her childhood dream of becoming a writer, inspired by Oprah Winfrey, and shares how she envisioned a life of writing and creating impactful books from a peaceful, intentional space. * [04:15] She explains how working with realtors, workshops, and clients helped her identify the theme and structure for her book, emphasizing the importance of aligning the content with her own experiences and audience needs. * [06:31] Cher shares the fears and self-doubt she experienced while starting the book, including procrastination and the anxiety of balancing multiple roles, which resonate with many entrepreneurs. * [08:47] She discusses redefining success and learning to embrace simplicity, joy, and authenticity in business, encouraging listeners to focus on what truly matters instead of chasing constant growth. * [11:16] Cher talks about her mission to create guidance she wished she had when starting her real estate career, providing actionable advice to help others avoid burnout and operate with ease and intention. * [14:44] Cher outlines who the book is for, including female realtors, women in business, and corporate professionals, emphasizing the book’s value for anyone looking to simplify, grow, and enjoy their work. * [16:06] She candidly discusses how procrastination and perfectionism create challenges when writing a permanent work like a book, and how she navigates these obstacles with intention and planning. * [19:54] Cher shares her struggle with time management and blocking writing sessions in her calendar while balancing work, coaching, and family life, providing relatable insights for busy entrepreneurs. * [22:52] She explains why she chose to document and share her book-writing journey, emphasizing that showing vulnerability can help others feel less alone and encourage them to start or finish their own projects. * [23:41] Cher invites listeners to follow her Instagram series, Blank Page to Bestseller, and encourages engagement from anyone currently writing a book or considering starting one. Connect with Cher: @chergoetz_ Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives. Instagram: @chergoetz_ Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca/] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co EFV Legal @elenafavaroviana | efvlegal.ca Amanda Walczyk | Saltbox Mortgages @saltboxmortgage_agent Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f [https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f]

Real Estate Routines and Market Shifts with Tina Goldrick

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher Goetz sits down with Tina Goldrick, a full-time real estate agent with 18 years of experience in the industry. Tina shares how she moved from the casino industry into real estate, what it was like starting in a male-dominated office, and how the culture of collaboration has changed over time. She also opens up about routines, market shifts, client alignment, response time, and the business lessons that came from a challenging year.  In this episode you will hear:  * [01:32] Tina’s early days in real estate and what it was like entering a male-dominated industry. * [04:47] How Tina’s real estate career evolved through teams, brokerage roles, listings, and eventually going individual. * [07:12] The importance of building a real estate business that supports both professional success and family life. * [08:10] Tina’s morning routine, from coffee and supplements to dog walks, fitness, and preparing for the day. * [11:48] How routine impacts Tina’s mental health, productivity, and ability to stay grounded. * [16:11] Tina’s honest take on the current real estate market and how it has shifted since 2024. * [18:23] Why sellers need to understand pricing strategy and the risk of chasing a down market. * [21:28] The simple business habits Tina has brought back, including handwritten notes, CRM updates, and database touchpoints. * [23:32] Why consistent database follow-up still matters in a slower or more balanced market. * [25:34] How Tina determines client alignment and why she has become more intentional about who she works with. * [31:00] Tina’s biggest business flex: fast response time and staying on top of client communication. * [34:58] The hardest season in Tina’s business and the personal and professional shifts that helped her move forward. * [38:00] Tina’s experience at The Agency, meeting Mauricio Umansky, and her take on real estate reality TV. * [47:12] What newer agents are struggling with and why lead generation, work ethic, and mentorship still matter. * [55:36] Tina’s shoutouts to women in real estate and her excitement about expanding with Gale Group in KW. Connect with Tina: Instagram: @tinagoldrick_realestate Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives. Instagram: @chergoetz_ Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca/] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co EFV Legal @elenafavaroviana | efvlegal.ca Amanda Walczyk | Saltbox Mortgages @saltboxmortgage_agent Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f [https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f]

Building Bigger with Legal Strategy with Elena Favaro Viana

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Elena Favaro Viana, founding member and managing partner of EFV Legal. Elena shares her unconventional path from international criminal law to building a law firm dedicated to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly women. Together, they break down the realities of legal structures in business, including personal real estate corporations (PRACs), and discuss how mindset, strategy, and proper support systems can transform a business. This conversation blends practical legal insight with empowering perspective shifts for realtors and entrepreneurs ready to grow.  In this episode you will hear:  * [01:44] Elena’s career journey from international criminal law to launching a successful legal business during the pandemic. * [04:21] Why many Canadian entrepreneurs avoid legal foundations and how this mindset limits business growth. * [06:09] Understanding business liability from day one and the risks of operating without proper legal protection. * [08:48] What a Personal Real Estate Corporation (PRAC) is and how it supports real estate professionals. * [10:15] How PRACs enable tax planning strategies and reinvestment into your real estate business. * [13:50] When realtors should consider incorporating and how to determine if a PRAC makes financial sense. * [16:08] The true cost of maintaining a PRAC and why profitability is key before incorporating. * [17:52] Strategic tax planning tips, including choosing a non-traditional corporate year-end. * [19:32] Common mistakes when setting up a PRAC and why professional legal guidance is essential. * [22:20] The importance of collaboration between your lawyer and accountant for optimal business structure. * [27:05] A candid discussion on women in business, mindset, and the tendency to undervalue success. * [32:09] Navigating entrepreneurship and motherhood while building a sustainable and fulfilling career. * [40:35] Why a PRAC can be a powerful wealth-building strategy for realtors. * [43:01] Building a strong professional team to support long-term business and financial growth. * [44:40] Vision planning and focused execution as key drivers for scaling your business successfully. Connect with Elena: Instagram: @elenafavaroviana Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives. Instagram: @chergoetz_ Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca/] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co EFV Legal @elenafavaroviana | efvlegal.ca Amanda Walczyk | Saltbox Mortgages @saltboxmortgage_agent Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f [https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f]

Women in Real Estate Retreat: Mindset, Success & Business Growth

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cher records a solo reflection following her Women in Real Estate Day Retreat. She revisits her personal notes from the original Muskoka retreat and shares the key messages that resonated most from each speaker. Cher walks through insights on defining success, storytelling in business, mindset and belief, and social media strategy.  In this episode you will hear:  * [02:10] Andrea Parker’s concept of “Where’s the fun?” and how bringing joy and positivity into serious work environments can shift energy and connection. * [04:22] The importance of defining your own version of success and why “success at the cost of yourself isn’t success.” * [06:35] The prioritization exercise that forces clarity on what matters most and helps guide more intentional decisions. * [08:34] How adding creativity and fun to everyday moments (like family time) can turn simple plans into meaningful experiences. * [10:11] Alex’s approach to storytelling, focusing on transformation rather than listing events, and identifying the journey from “before” to “after.” * [17:27] Marsha’s perspective on vulnerability creating deeper connections, and Cher’s personal story of sharing openly on social media during a career transition. * [20:01] The idea that you can’t outwork a belief you don’t truly hold and how mindset impacts the ability to sustain success. * [22:47] Recognizing when strengths like hustle, stop serving you and the importance of adjusting as life evolves. * [28:02] The reminder that how you make people feel is more memorable than what you say, especially in client relationships. * [29:02] Kristina’s insight that not all money is worth taking, and how social media can intentionally repel the wrong clients to attract the right ones. This episode is a candid recap of the retreat’s most impactful lessons, offering practical reflections on mindset, business growth, and intentional living.  Connect with Andrea: @andreaparkerspeaks Connect with Marsha: @marshavanw Connect with Alex: @streetsays Connect with Kristina: @kristina.bartold Connect with Cher: @chergoetz_ Join the Better Your Business Membership / Grab Resources Mentioned:  https://betteryourbusiness.thinkific.com/collections [https://betteryourbusiness.thinkific.com/collections] Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives. Instagram: @chergoetz_ Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca/] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting  @thriveaccounting | https://thriveaccounting.co EFV Legal @elenafavaroviana | efvlegal.ca Amanda Walczyk | Saltbox Mortgages @saltboxmortgage_agent Tuesday Mortgage Tidbits Sign Up for Realtors:  https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f [https://saltboxmortgage.myflodesk.com/iksoczdm1f]