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

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Varsha Pasel, a real estate advisor and host of the Life in Conversation podcast. Varsha shares her journey into real estate, shaped by personal life experiences and a desire to show up more intentionally for the people in her life. The conversation explores how her definition of success has evolved, the importance of self-trust, and how alignment in business leads to stronger client relationships.

In this episode you will hear:

• [02:17] Varsha shares her journey into real estate, highlighting how personal life experiences and navigating family health challenges influenced her decision to pursue a more purpose-driven career
• [04:33] Transitioning from a legal career into real estate, and how foundational knowledge in contracts and client advocacy shaped her approach to serving clients
• [06:35] The importance of recognizing when you’ve outgrown environments in business, and how personal and professional growth requires evolving
• [08:12] How Varsha’s definition of success evolved from traditional real estate metrics like transactions and awards to a values-based, client-centered approach
• [13:19] Identifying key gaps in the real estate industry, including education standards, representation, and the quality of client experience
• [15:32] The need for new voices in real estate, and how prioritizing authentic connection over transactional thinking creates stronger client relationships
• [16:45] Strategies for attracting aligned real estate clients through relationship marketing, open houses, and intentional social media presence
• [22:52] How self-awareness and internal work contribute to building a sustainable real estate business that feels aligned and authentic
• [23:25] Practical ways to build self-trust in business, including consistency, discipline, and following through on commitments to yourself
• [32:20] Varsha reflects on her unique edge in real estate, emphasizing service, attention to detail, and a client-first mindset
• [40:05] The importance of curiosity in real estate, especially when working with diverse clients
• [56:30] Letting go of a results-driven mindset and learning to embrace the process of growth in both business and personal development

Connect with Varsha:

Instagram: @varsha.pasel

Website: https://varshapasel.com/

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

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cher shares how small, intentional community events have played a significant role in growing her real estate business. She explains how these events are designed to be simple, affordable, and easy to execute, without the need for a large client base or extensive planning. Cher walks through real examples of events she has hosted, how they were structured, and why they work.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:10] Cher introduces the concept of community events and common misconceptions from realtors
• [02:06] Cher shares how small community events contributed to millions in sales in less than three years
• [02:53] Overview of her first event: “speed dating for besties” and how it was structured
• [06:00] Cher introduces the “hot girl walk (but with charcuterie)” event and explains how it was set up and executed
• [07:31] “Book swap and shop” event and how it supports local businesses while building community
• [09:38] Organic partnerships forming through events, including collaborations with other local business owners
• [10:20] “Flow and glow” events combining yoga and educational talks, and how they can be repeated
• [12:09] “B Corp and Bliss” event featuring an author panel and collaboration with multiple businesses
• [17:13] Cher shares the “sip and shop (with tarot)” event idea and how it combined shopping, refreshments, and tarot card readings to create a shared experience
• [18:10] Cher shares the workout class event, including partnering with a gym, hosting a group class, and adding an educational talk on perimenopause and menopause
• [20:56] Shift into larger “Impact” events focused on women in business with panels and networking

If this episode resonated with you, consider where you already spend time locally, whether that’s shopping, dining, or grabbing coffee. Build a relationship with that business owner, and take the step to ask about hosting your next event there.

Connect with Cher:

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Join the Better Your Business Membership / Grab Resources Mentioned:

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Steph Furfaro, Realtor and founder of Referral-First. Steph shares how she built her real estate business almost entirely through referrals and why she believes relationship-driven businesses are the most sustainable path for realtors. The conversation explores how client experience, organization, mindset, and intentional relationship building contribute to a strong referral network. Steph also walks through the pillars of her referral-first framework and how agents can begin implementing these principles in their own businesses.

In this episode you will hear:

• [02:09] Steph shares how her interest in real estate began at age 12 after being included in the process of her parents buying and selling her childhood home.
• [07:18] The experience with an early client that motivated Steph to build a business focused on referrals and aligned relationships.
• [12:04] How Steph defines an ideal client based on personality,alignment, and energy rather than overly detailed demographics.
• [14:34] A simple onboarding strategy Steph uses with clients, including asking about their favourite holiday as a way to personalize future touchpoints.
• [23:07] Steph outlines the importance of strong organizational systems, including using a CRM and maintaining structured records of client information.
• [30:50] Examples of creating “wow” moments for clients by anticipating needs and making the moving process easier.
• [35:10] Non-negotiables in a referral-based business, including serving clients first, being proactive, and setting expectations clearly.
• [39:15] The mindset shift from focusing on transaction volume to focusing on value and building a business that supports personal lifestyle goals.
• [43:57] Why tracking referrals and intentionally thanking clients who refer business is essential for strengthening relationships and encouraging future referrals.
• [52:12] Steph explains how exploring her human design helped her understand her strengths and approach business in a way that feels more aligned.

Visit Steph’s website to grab her free masterclass and join her e-mail list!

Connect with Steph:

Instagram: @stephfurfarorealtor

@referralfirstrealtor

Website: stephaniefurfaro.ca

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cheryl Goetz shares seven powerful business lessons passed down from her retired entrepreneur father. After a summer conversation at the cottage sparked reflection, Cheryl revisits the advice he lived by and how she’s seen it play out in real time throughout her own real estate career. From leadership and financial discipline to integrity and mindset, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for realtors who want to build sustainable, profitable businesses without sacrificing peace of mind.

In this episode you will hear:

• [02:37] Share the wealth. Why rewarding loyalty and effort builds long-term success and how Cher applies this mindset in her own business.
• [04:19] A real example of sharing the wealth. How inviting a social media manager into a growth opportunity and rewarding her contribution to a retreat’s success.
• [05:48] Working 16-hour days in the beginning and embracing seasons of hustle intentionally while building a strong foundation.
• [09:12] “Don’t cheat the tax man”. The importance of integrity, organization, and staying calm during audits or financial scrutiny.
• [11:50] “Don’t do anything that will keep you up at night”. Choosing ethical decisions over commission and protecting your peace.
• [14:21] When everything feels like it’s blowing up the simple but powerful practice of pausing, stepping away, and responding with clarity.
• [16:48] Financial discipline for realtors navigating unpredictable income cycles.
• [19:35] Managing overwhelm while overseeing 16 custom home builds and the leadership lessons learned under pressure.
• [20:16] “You drive the ship” — stepping into the CEO role of your real estate business instead of reacting to clients and circumstances.
• [21:26] Shifting from “I’m just a realtor” to “I am the captain of this organization” and setting boundaries, expectations, and leading with authority.

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow realtor, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode designed to help you build a business that fuels your life — not drains it.

Connect with Cher:

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Join the Better Your Business Membership / Grab Resources Mentioned: 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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Shaleni Henriquez, a West GTA realtor with over 12 years of experience and the founder of We Rise Collective. Shaleni shares her journey into real estate as a second career, transitioning from a corporate background while raising young children. Throughout the conversation, she speaks candidly about money mindset, evolving definitions of success, boundaries, and building a business that aligns with who you truly are.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:10] Shaleni shares how real estate became her second career after working in corporate medical and insurance roles, and what pushed her to finally take the leap.
• [13:05] A candid conversation about money mindset, scarcity, learning financial management in real estate, and using systems like Profit First to create stability.
• [16:35] The importance of boundaries, learning that not everything is urgent, and how slowing down can actually support long-term growth.
• [26:35] Practical and approachable tips for getting started with video and social media, including overcoming self-doubt and embracing imperfect action.
• [31:47] Shaleni shares why she created We Rise Collective after attending the Forward Event, describing the loneliness of real estate and her desire to create a supportive, in-person community.
• [33:40 ] She explains how her first We Rise event came together simply, without overthinking and why starting small removed pressure and fear around hosting events.
• [44:35] Shaleni emphasizes authenticity for women in real estate, challenging the idea that success must follow a specific hustle model or “shoulds.”
• [49:48] A powerful reflection on aligning income goals with how you want to feel, and why achieving financial success through methods you hate isn’t sustainable.
• [1:01:15] Her answer to the “one thing” agents should focus on: staying in touch with past clients and avoiding a transactional approach to real estate.
• [1:01:43] She explains her “surprise and delight” system for clients, including using onboarding forms to personalize thoughtful follow-ups and gifts.

This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t have to look one way and that building a business you love starts with knowing yourself and staying connected to the people you serve.

Connect with Shaleni

Instagram: @soldbyshaleni

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this solo episode of Better Your Business, Cheryl Goetz shares how she created her perfect calendar to go from feeling scattered and anxious to focused, present, and aligned. Designed for realtors juggling both business and personal demands, Cher walks listeners through a step-by-step process to build a calendar that supports intentional growth—both personally and professionally. With a focus on mindset, boundaries, and practical strategies, this episode offers a real-world framework for creating a business that fuels your life, not drains it.

In this episode you will hear:

• [00:50] Cher’s transformation from a reactionary, anxious schedule to one that brings calm, focus, and joy.
• [01:49] Why your mindset around time boundaries needs to shift before your calendar can truly work.
• [03:59] The “perfect month” planning exercise: organizing personal responsibilities, celebration prep, and time for future-you.
• [07:46] How to identify small steps that move you toward big personal goals like financial health or wellness.
• [08:49] Structuring your calendar for present business: showing up for active clients with built-in flexibility.
• [10:57] Future business planning: Cher’s Venn diagram approach to choosing marketing activities that feel good and attract aligned clients.
• [13:25] Systems-focused business development: identifying and improving backend processes (CRM, finances, client experience).
• [17:16] Weekly “Review + Preview” practice: how to reflect, follow up, and proactively plan for a smoother week.
• [25:30] Why narrowing your focus each month matters and how to adjust your calendar to better fit your energy, capacity, and priorities.

Connect with Cher:

Instagram: @chergoetz_

Join the Better Your Business Membership / Get Resourced Mentioned: 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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Tory Akene — one of the world’s first AI-certified real estate agents and a business coach with Kathleen Black International. Tory shares her unconventional journey into real estate, her passion for helping agents unlock the power of AI, and how she balances entrepreneurship with motherhood. With her signature blend of authenticity and strategic insight, Tory offers a wealth of practical advice for agents looking to grow their business with systems, intention, and creativity.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:45] Tory shares her journey from insurance claims to becoming a licensed agent during the pandemic.
• [03:40] How AI, when customized, can dramatically improve a realtor’s efficiency and output.
• [06:02] The importance of storing business information in ChatGPT to enhance performance and automation.
• [13:04] Real-world examples of using AI for custom clauses, listing relaunch strategies, and turning research into client communication.
• [16:38] The value of customizing ChatGPT to practice scripts, roleplay, and even adjust tone for different audiences.
• [20:20] How to improve ChatGPT outputs with one simple prompt: “How can you make this better?”
• [23:20] Why networking with other agents has been a powerful business growth strategy for Tory.
• [27:51] Tory opens up about the hardest season in her business which is balancing entrepreneurship with personal life changes.
• [30:47] The number one struggle she sees agents facing right now and the importance of narrowing down three core lead generation pillars.
• [34:34] Why agents shouldn’t expect business from friends and family unless they’ve intentionally nurtured those relationships.
• [38:30] Tory and Cher discuss intentional parenting while growing a business and the power of creating consistent connection routines.
• [43:40] Tory shares a current challenge finding an AI calling platform that sounds human and supports her lead outreach.
• [44:48] Her advice to women in real estate: hire a virtual assistant to help lighten the mental and operational load.
• [47:15] Shoutouts to women who’ve inspired her Stacey Prieur and Kathleen Black

Connect with Tory:

Instagram: @myrealtortory

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
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: 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