4. The Secret Behind Thriving Gardens and Thriving Communities with Rex Ponder

7. Women in Business: Finding Balance Without Burning Out

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "Strength does not require hardness, right? So you can be amazing and a leader, but that doesn't necessarily mean strength is a weakness," says Nonet Reese, real estate expert, business builder, and community leader, on Start a Conversation. Drawing on her 25+ years of industry experience, Nonet delves into the law of polarity, sharing insights on how women in business can navigate life's dualities—from rest versus ambition, to pain versus purpose—while leading with both compassion and grit. Her refreshingly honest take on failure, emotional balance, and the pressures women entrepreneurs face will make you rethink what real strength means. Don’t miss Nonet’s reflections on thriving in chaos, turning setbacks into wisdom, and why believing a challenge is preparing you—not punishing you—can transform your journey. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. See setbacks as stepping stones—every challenge holds a lesson that can push you closer to success. Lean into adversity and ask: what strength is emerging right now? 2. Balance your drive with true rest—ambition requires self-care to sustain. Schedule downtime and protect your energy as fiercely as your goals. 3. Lead with both strength and empathy—you don’t have to choose. Speak your truth directly while remaining compassionate and empowering toward others. 4. Pause before reacting—emotions are fleeting, but actions linger. When tension rises, breathe and respond intentionally rather than impulsively. 5. Embrace every season of growth—life will shift, and so will you. Trust that pain or confusion now may be shaping your purpose and expanding your wisdom. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "You're not confined to one moment, one emotion, or one season. You're always capable of shifting, which plays into several of the things it was talking about." > "Strength does not require hardness. You can be amazing and a leader, but that doesn't mean strength is a weakness. We all feel like we've got to be nice and cordial all the time, when really, you can still lead with compassion and empathy." > "Rest versus ambition—those are the two polars. I really have to lean into self-care for myself, because it's not laziness. It's part of what we need to be better humans, not just better leaders, moms, or spouses." RESOURCES MENTIONED The Kybalion - https://amzn.to/4o3aT3S [https://amzn.to/4o3aT3S] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

6. Building Client Relationships in Real Estate: What Most Agents Miss with Sandi Williams & Josh Wyckoff

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "It's very easy to get someone to try your product once. It's getting them to come back a second time and a third time and so on. That is the secret to success," says Josh Wykoff, a former Delta flight attendant turned real estate agent, who joins Start a Conversation to reveal how airline-style customer service and relationship-building underpin his standout approach to real estate. Alongside Josh, seasoned agent Sandi shares how, for her, success starts with people, not property. She emphasizes, "You have to get to know somebody and figure out what they want. Sometimes you have to help them figure it out themselves," highlighting the transformative power of authentic relationships and ongoing client support—even long after the closing table. Together, Josh and Sandi offer an inside look at the boutique brokerage mindset: from delivering "first class" service and hands-on teamwork to navigating negotiation challenges and nurturing client loyalty for years to come. Whether you're fascinated by the parallels between hospitality and real estate or want to discover how top agents turn transactions into lifelong partnerships, their conversation on Start a Conversation will leave you wanting more. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Build real relationships from the start—focus on understanding your clients’ unique stories and needs, not just transactions. 2. Always clarify client expectations—offer tiered levels of service and ensure they know the difference so they get exactly what they want. 3. Stay proactive throughout the process—anticipate issues, communicate clearly, and arrive with solutions ready. 4. Maintain connections after the sale—follow up with past clients, offer ongoing support, and be their trusted resource long after closing. 5. Embrace the changes—discuss buyer agreements early, adapt to new industry standards, and confidently guide clients through evolving processes. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "I try to provide as top notch of a level of service as I can because I believe in building relationships from the very first moment that I meet a client." > "It's very easy to get someone to try your product once. It's getting them to come back a second time and a third time and so on—that is the secret to success." > "I think it's always about people, not property. I want them smiling when they get up from the closing table—whether it's because they have keys in their hand or a check in their hand—I want them to just be happy." CONNECT WITH JOSH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshwrealtor [https://www.instagram.com/joshwrealtor] CONNECT WITH SANDI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunny_wms [https://www.instagram.com/sunny_wms] NONET REESE LINKEDIN: HTTPS://WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/IN/NONETPARMERREESE/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] INSTAGRAM: HTTPS://WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/NONETPARMERREESE [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YOUTUBE: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/@THREESIXTYAUBURN [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE WEBSITE: HTTPS://CONCEPTTOCLOSING.COM/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] FACEBOOK: HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CONCEPTTOCLOSING/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] INSTAGRAM: HTTPS://WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/THREESIXTY.REALESTATE.EAL/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LINKEDIN: HTTPS://WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/THREE-SIXTY-DEVELOPMENT-SALES-MANAGEMENT/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] ZILLOW: HTTPS://WWW.ZILLOW.COM/PROFILE/THREESIXTYREALESTATE [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

5. Grounding in Nature: The Secret to Beating Burnout at Work

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] “Being in nature isn't a luxury. It's for everybody,” says Nonet Reese, a real estate professional and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience, on "Start a Conversation." In this refreshing solo episode, Nonet reflects on how stepping outside—even for just a few minutes each day—can ground and energize us, both in life and business. From feeding birds by hand to soaking up the sun and seeking stillness by the water, Nonet shares simple, actionable ways anyone can reconnect with nature, regardless of their schedule or environment. Tune in to discover how Nonet's unique approach to being “solar powered” could inspire realignment, creativity, and growth, leaving you eager to find your own peace in the natural world. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Nature is for everyone, not a luxury—step outside daily, even for five minutes, and let nature recharge your mind and energy. 2. Break the cycle of distraction—use grounding moments outdoors to reset your focus and conquer negativity fast. 3. Reconnect with your roots—schedule quiet time in nature each week to realign your goals and intentions. 4. Find your simple nature ritual—feed the birds, walk the block, or just feel grass under your feet, and let it restore your balance. 5. Don’t keep it to yourself—share how you ground yourself in nature and encourage others to find their own peace outside. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "Being in nature isn't a luxury. It's for everybody. Young, old, boy, girl. It's out there and we need to get out and enjoy it." > "I feel taking those five or ten minutes to be outside, to feel the warmth on your skin, eyes, hair, and feet—whether in shoes or not—is important. Being restful and appreciative, feeling thankful and present in nature, makes a difference." > "Your environment matters, how you’re taking care of yourself matters. Whether you're using the sun, the water, or the beauty of a space you've created and cultivated yourself, those are all moments where you really need to take the time to come back to center." NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

4. The Secret Behind Thriving Gardens and Thriving Communities with Rex Ponder

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "It's about beautifying the world one customer at a time," says Rex Ponder, third-generation horticulturist and community connector, who joins Start a Conversation to share wisdom from a lifetime spent in Alabama's soil. In this episode, Rex unearths the secrets behind thriving gardens and thriving communities, revealing why relationships—not just roots—grow deepest when it comes to plants, people, and place. From the best plants for the Southeast, to demystifying organics and native species, and even how talking to your houseplants might just make all the difference, Rex offers learnings that go far beyond the garden gate. Whether you're nurturing curb appeal or cultivating resilience, his practical tips and storytelling will leave you eager to learn more about growing both your green thumb and your neighborhood. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Building relationships is the root of great gardening and thriving communities—connect with your local experts and neighbors for advice and camaraderie. 2. Don’t just pick plants by looks—ask questions about soil, sunlight, and native varieties before you buy to ensure lasting success. 3. Be proactive, not reactive—prep your gardens early with proper fungus and insect controls, tailored to your environment, to avoid headaches later. 4. Go organic when you can—research animal- and kid-friendly products so your gardening enhances your home safely for all. 5. Invest in knowledge for houseplants too—learn about lighting, repotting, and specific needs so your indoor oasis flourishes rather than flops. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "I told you we set up kind of our philosophy as beautifying the world one customer at a time. And that's kind of what we do—helping them go back and beautify their yard or business, and that overall helps beautify the world." > "It's more about those relationships with people that I have had as customers for many years that have become just friends. As I work with them, it's more than just selling a plant or telling them how to plant it." > "If you're killing ivy, we've got a problem. We're not selling you any more ivy until I talk to you and find out what you're doing, why this ivy isn't thriving. Because I said, if you're killing ivy, we've got a problem. So I talked to her about her conditions and where she was using them, pots, how often to water, and the sun/shade factor. After a while, she got to where she was doing well." CONNECT WITH REX Ponders Nursery Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Ponders-Nursery-Inc-61553233033044/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Ponders-Nursery-Inc-61553233033044/] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

3: How Claire Goldman Discovered the Winning Blueprint to Scaling a Landscape Business

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "You can hide bad architecture with landscaping. You can't hide bad landscaping," says Claire Goldman, co-owner and design lead of R&R Landscape, as she joins Start a Conversation to talk about how outdoor spaces can elevate not just a home’s value but its entire emotional impact. Claire, who went from employee to owner, shares her passion for connecting people to the outdoors, her journey as a woman business leader in a male-dominated industry, and how she and her husband learned to balance marriage and management. Claire reveals the surprising ROI of landscaping—both financially and emotionally—and why trees are the single most impactful investment new homeowners can make. She discusses her role in shaping the design-build focus of R&R, the value of national peer groups, and the lessons that came from learning to say no, so her business could scale the right way. Along the way, she opens up about building a company culture that encourages authenticity, connection, and continual learning. Tune into this episode of Start a Conversation to discover why curb appeal is more than a first impression—and how purposeful, creative landscaping can transform the way you live in and love your home. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Find your unique strengths—don’t settle for fitting in; embrace what makes you different and confidently bring it to every table you enter. 2. Invest in your outdoor space. Trees, landscape design, and quality hardscapes don’t just make your home beautiful— they boost its value and your joy. 3. Seek out learning and mentorship—peer groups and industry connections fast-track your evolution from skilled worker to empowered leader. 4. Set boundaries in your business. Clarify what you do best, say no to distractions, and focus fiercely on mastery to attract the right clients. 5. Stay connected with other driven, supportive people—build relationships that fuel your growth, offer perspective, and remind you you’re not alone on the journey. MEMORABLE QUOTES "I think the skills that we bring that are different sometimes can make us feel self-conscious, but those are also what's needed. Learning how to be proud of what makes you different instead of feeling like you have to assimilate into whatever room you're walking into is not easy, but it's important and it's an effective way to maximize whatever opportunity you have." "We learned that we can't train crews across different quality levels. That was the catalyst of us clarifying our identity. We don't have to be everything to everyone; we need to understand what we do well and make sure we do it to a level of as close to mastery as we can get it." "The single most impactful thing people can do in their landscapes is get some trees in and let them start maturing, especially because we deal with so much new construction and we're lacking that. If you think about a $1,000 tree today, that's a $10,000 tree in 10 years." CONNECT WITH CLAIRE Website: https://rrlandscapes.com/ [https://rrlandscapes.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rrlandscaping/ [https://www.instagram.com/rrlandscaping/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AULandscapes/ [https://www.facebook.com/AULandscapes/] RESOURCES MENTIONED Dare to Lead by Brené Brown - https://amzn.to/4cEhkXr [https://amzn.to/4cEhkXr] Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek - https://amzn.to/4cH4uYv [https://amzn.to/4cH4uYv] Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://amzn.to/3P2Ny4N [https://amzn.to/3P2Ny4N] National Association of Landscape Professionals - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/ [https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/] Women in Landscape Network - https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/LP/LP/IGI/Women_in_Landscape_Network.aspx [https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/LP/LP/IGI/Women_in_Landscape_Network.aspx] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]