Have you ever felt the thrill of turning a simple idea into a reality that fills your life with passion and purpose? Kimberly has, and she's here to ignite that spark in you. From a two-car garage to a bustling home decor store in Ashburn, Virginia, her story is a tapestry of ingenuity and determination. As she peels back the curtain on her journey of leaving the corporate world behind, you'll find yourself enraptured by her transformation of ordinary items into extraordinary treasures. Her hands-on approach and one-woman show to creating, buying, and staging is more than just a business model—it's a testament to the power of following one's artistic vision.

Journey with us through the enchanting, sometimes chaotic, world of holiday retail where Kimberly weaves her magic. The store, aptly named 'A New View,' becomes a canvas for her creativity, especially during the Christmas season. She manages to blend professional triumphs with the warmth of her personal life, ensuring that neither is left untended. The innovative 'sip and shops' she hosts not only redefine the shopping experience but also serve as a gateway to giving back to the community. This segment is a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit and the delicate art of balancing work with life's other precious moments.

In the final act of our conversation, we uncover the subtle yet impactful role of scent in creating a memorable shopping experience. Kimberly's strategy of matching fragrances to rooms is just one piece of her larger philosophy on personalization in retail. Her story is an inspiring reminder that taking risks, believing in yourself, and connecting with customers on a personal level can be the catalysts for success in business and beyond. Embark on this sensory journey and let Kimberly's unwavering belief in herself and her craft inspire you to take your own leap of faith.

Embark on an inspiring journey with Matt Elliott, a real estate maven who traded the volatile world of telecommunications for the solid grounds of property sales. His tale begins amidst the uncertainties of a college student at Liberty University, where a real estate license became his contingency plan. But life threw a curveball post-dot-com bust, paving his way to a successful career fostering deep connections and offering sage guidance to those navigating the treacherous buyer's market. In a candid conversation, Matt opens up about his collaboration with Aaliyah, a partnership that bloomed into a family-centric showcase of Loudoun County's allure, reminding us that home isn't just where you live—it's the community you cherish.

Peel back the layers of the home buying and selling process with tips from a seasoned pro who knows that trust and transparency are the keystones of any real estate transaction. Matt's insights on crafting offers that echo more than numbers underscore the finesse required in today's market. He doesn't stop there; he shares wisdom on life's true treasures—time with family and the great outdoors. As the episode winds down, a poignant message on the transformative power of kindness and love takes center stage. Matt's personal reflections on family bonds and the echoes of missed opportunities serve as a gentle nudge to cherish our connections and spread a little more love in the world.

Gigi McMillan's remarkable transformation from a domestic violence survivor to a beacon of hope for others is a story that resonates with the power of change. Join us as we journey with Gigi, exploring her initiatives like Purple Runway and Camisole Style Consultancy that help survivors find their voice and heal holistically. This episode is an intimate look at the intersection of personal adversity and professional triumph, where Gigi's own past fuels her passion to empower individuals to reclaim their lives with confidence and style.

As we sit down with Gigi, she shares the critical importance of community support, an element that's often the backbone of powerful healing and personal growth. You'll be inspired by the innovative ways Gigi brings people together, from the rhythmic release of Bodyoke to the camaraderie fostered at Sip Shop and Share events. The conversation also highlights the upcoming 21-day challenge Gigi has crafted to nurture the body, voice, and spirit, offering a refreshing take on the long-term journey of reclaiming self-worth.

Beyond survival, Gigi stresses the need for preventative education, engaging younger generations in conversations about healthy relationships. She takes us behind the scenes of her annual Purple Runway event, underscoring its significance as a space where survivors and supporters alike can find strength in solidarity. Gigi also opens up about her dedication to mental health initiatives in her community, serving as an advisory member for Prince William County's Crisis Receiving Center. Her message is a resonant reminder: incorporating simple self-care rituals into our daily routines is not just beneficial, it's essential for our mental focus and happiness.

From the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the corridors of entrepreneurship, Neil McKinnon's tale is nothing short of cinematic. He takes us on a journey marked by deep reflection and a bold step into the unknown post-9/11. His candid recollections of transitioning from GEICO's corporate halls to running a photo booth rental empire, and eventually becoming a State Farm agent, are steeped in the lessons of resilience and adaptability. Neil's story isn't just about successful career pivots; it's a masterclass in balancing the tightrope of family life with the rigors of building a business from the ground up.

As we peer into the world of insurance through Neal's lens, the conversation shifts to the post-COVID business landscape—a terrain he navigated with the finesse of a seasoned entrepreneur. He pulls back the curtain on the challenges he faced, from staffing woes to learning the ins and outs of independent operation, all while managing a robust $3.5 million portfolio. Neil doesn't shy away from complex topics like the fluctuations of insurance premiums, and offers a unique perspective drawing parallels with technology's impact on the industry. His insights are a treasure trove for anyone looking to understand the future of insurance premiums amid evolving tech.

But Neil's narrative doesn't end with personal triumphs and industry analysis. He paints a vivid picture of his engagement with the community, underscoring the vital role connection plays in growth—both for individuals and businesses. His involvement in chambers of commerce and commitment to sales and marketing education highlight a reciprocal exchange of wisdom and support. Neil's ambitions gleam as he discusses future business horizons and the delightful chaos of parenting a seven-year-old. This episode is a cocktail of professional wisdom, community spirit, and the occasional splash of humor—it's an invitation to witness the incredible impact one person can have on their surroundings.

From the relentless grind of the gig economy to the gripping world of mystery thrillers, B.C. Lienesch, or Bryan Lienesch to his friends, spins a tale you won't want to miss. With the wisdom only a self-published author can offer, Bryan walks us through his transformative journey, detailing how his wife's encouragement led to the creation of his debut novel, "The Woodsman," and a bold leap into full-time writing amid the turbulence of a global pandemic. His story isn't just about penning novels; it's a testament to the resilience needed to form a personal LLC, wade through the complexities of the publishing world, and find that spark of inspiration that breathes life into every page. Listen in as Bryan peels back the curtain on his carefully crafted characters, drawing inspiration from crime fiction icons like Robert Crais, and the happy accidents that gave rise to his subsequent works.

Buckle up for an episode that's equal parts masterclass and heart-to-heart, as Bryan Lienesch shares not just his creative process but also the softer side that nurtures it—like his love for Lego and the therapeutic value it holds for him. He offers up hard-earned wisdom for budding authors, urging them to push past self-doubt and embrace the fulfillment of seeing a project through to its end. Bryan's compelling narrative reminds us of the kindness that still thrives in the competitive literary world, and the importance of lifting each other up. Get a sneak peek into his upcoming audiobook, and let his conviction that ambition need not be ruthless inspire you. Whether you're a die-hard mystery fan or a writer in search of a sign to start your next chapter, this conversation with B.C. Lienesch is sure to ignite your passion.

Embark on a heartfelt odyssey with Dawn Tollus, the esteemed real estate savant from Century 21 Redwood Realty, who has gracefully woven philanthropy into her illustrious career. As the leader of the Marquis Group and the recently crowned Realtor of the Year for 2023, Dawn shares a tapestry of experiences from her 25 years in the industry. Her narrative is one of triumph and empathy, culminating in a spectacular gala that bolstered Mobile Hope with over $160,000 and gave rise to her own charitable foundation. This episode unfolds Dawn's journey, revealing the symbiosis of professional success and altruistic spirit.

Real estate is more than transactions; it's about the homes and the hearts within, a belief Dawn Tullis embodies through every sale and community gesture. This episode uncovers the profound impact of familial influence and volunteerism on Dawn's life, ensuring that each marketing strategy she deploys resonates with authenticity and relatability. Aspiring realtors and philanthropists alike will find solace in Dawn's insights about the vitality of passion in team building and the joy of giving back. Her story is a testament to the power of genuine connection and the indelible mark one can leave on their community.

With poignancy and resolve, Dawn recounts the personal loss of her son, a narrative thread that strengthens her resolve to better the lives of at-risk youth and tackle the opioid crisis head-on. Through personal growth and community development, she envisions a future ripe with potential, both for her team and her enduring love for real estate. As you tune in, allow Dawn's dedication to guide you through the nuances of relocating clients and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of local communities. It's an intimate glimpse into the life of a woman whose passion for her work is eclipsed only by her commitment to making a difference.

When life handed Paige McLaughlin lemons, she didn't just make lemonade—she built a lemonade empire. Our latest episode rides alongside Paige, a concierge-turned-real-estate-maven with an awe-inspiring tale that begins in the polished halls of the Ritz-Carlton and unfolds into a remarkable two-decade journey. She lets us in on her childhood dreams of model homes that led her into the world of real estate, and how she climbed the ranks with the finesse of Ritz-Carlton service leading her way. Despite the shifting sands of the market, from interest rate hikes to supply-demand curveballs, Paige's approach to real estate is as steadfast as it is strategic, weaving personal connections with each key handover.

The heart of our conversation beats strongest when Paige peels back the curtain on her most formidable opponent yet—cancer. As a survivor, her story isn't just about the fight; it's a masterclass in optimism. She divulges how her gratitude, her relentless positivity, and the support from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society became her armor during her battle with lymphoma. Now, she's taking her indomitable spirit to new heights as a candidate for Visionary of the Year, translating personal trials into a crusade against blood cancers. Join us for a narrative that is as much about the resilience of the human spirit as it is about the intricacies of real estate.

Venturing into the real estate market can feel like an enigmatic puzzle, but MJ Frazier, a seasoned entrepreneur, lays out a masterclass in property development and investment. In an enthralling exchange, he recounts his leap from corporate development into the entrepreneurial realm, now a guiding force behind his thriving business, Razr Group. His decade-plus insights illuminate the pathways from renovations to condo conversions and new builds in the vibrant markets of DC and Northern Virginia. Beyond the mortar, MJ's passion extends to nurturing growth in others with his coaching entity, Defined Coaching.

This episode isn't just about building structures; it's about laying foundations for life. MJ intertwines the poignant narrative of his personal growth, aligning his values as a family man with his business principles. He imparts wisdom to eager minds diving into real estate, stressing the significance of forging strong relationships and embracing continual learning. Looking ahead, MJ offers a sneak peek into the future of Razr Group, emphasizing a team culture steeped in shared ethos, not just expansion for expansion's sake. His upcoming speaking engagements promise to be incubators of community wisdom, fostering a collective journey towards industry excellence. Join us for this episode as MJ Frazier offers both a blueprint for professional success and a roadmap for personal fulfillment.