Episode 44: Creepy Crawlers & Curious Critters — What Every Homeowner Should Know

Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or preparing to buy your first property, there’s one universal truth: pests can create headaches, hazards, and costly surprises if you don’t know what to look for.

In Episode 44 of Bricks, Bucks & Buying Power, we dive into the insects and critters most likely to show up in New England homes, what signs you should never ignore, and how to stay one step ahead of infestations that can damage your biggest investment.

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Why Pest Awareness Matters

Most pests don’t announce themselves—they work quietly, often behind walls, in basements, or in attics where damage can go unnoticed for months or years.

Unchecked, pests can:

• Cause structural damage

• Destroy insulation

• Spread bacteria and allergens

• Leave behind costly repairs

• Affect home inspections and resale value

Knowing the early warning signs can save thousands and protect the long-term health of your home.

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The Most Common New England Pests You Need to Know

🐜 1. Carpenter Ants

One of the most common pests in our region—and often misunderstood. They don’t eat wood, but they tunnel through it to build their colonies, which can weaken structural components over time.

Watch for:

• Sawdust-like shavings

• Rustling inside walls

• Large black ants, especially near moisture

🐝 2. Wasps & Hornets

They’re territorial, aggressive, and love to build nests in eaves, soffits, and around decks.

Why they’re a problem:

• Painful stings

• Large colonies can become dangerous

• Difficult to remove without a professional

🐀 3. Mice & Rats

Rodents are resourceful and can enter through openings as small as a dime. Once inside, they multiply quickly.

Risks include:

• Chewed wires (which can cause fires)

• Contaminated food storage

• Damaged insulation and HVAC systems

🐜 4. Termites

Less common in northern New England than in the South, but absolutely present—and high-impact. Termites eat wood rather than excavate it, meaning their damage can move faster and more destructively than carpenter ants.

Signs to never ignore:

• Mud tubes along foundations

• Soft or blistering wood

• Discarded wings near windowsills

If you see any of these, it’s time for a specialist immediately.

🦇 5. Bats

Surprisingly common in older New England homes, especially those with open soffits, chimneys, or attic vulnerabilities.

Why they matter:

• They can carry diseases (including rabies)

• Their droppings—guano—can damage insulation and create air-quality issues

• They’re protected wildlife, meaning removal must be done legally and safely

If you hear fluttering or scratching in the attic, especially at dusk or dawn, a professional wildlife specialist is the safest option.

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Why Pests Get In (and How to Stop Them)

Pests get into homes for three main reasons:

1. Food

2. Water

3. Shelter

Common entry points include:

• Gaps around utility lines

• Open or unsealed vents

• Foundation cracks

• Loose roofing or soffits

• Basement windows

• Poorly sealed doors

Moisture is another key attractor—leaky pipes, damp basements, or clogged gutters create ideal environments for pests to thrive.

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Practical Prevention: Simple, Effective Steps

You don’t need to be an exterminator to reduce your risk significantly. Start here:

✔️ Seal Gaps

Use steel wool and caulk around pipes, vents, and foundation holes.

✔️ Control Moisture

Fix leaks quickly, use dehumidifiers, and ensure gutters drain properly.

✔️ Keep Food Secure

Store pantry items in airtight containers and clean up crumbs promptly.

✔️ Maintain the Exterior

Trim back vegetation, remove debris, and check for rotting wood.

✔️ Schedule Annual Pest Inspections

Especially important for buyers, sellers, and owners of older homes.

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When to Call the Pros

Some infestations are simply beyond DIY—especially termites, bats, large rodent colonies, and hidden carpenter ant nests. Professionals can accurately diagnose the issue, eliminate it safely, and prevent future problems.

If you’re prepping to sell, buying a home, or managing an aging property, knowing when to bring in an expert can save you thousands and protect your investment.

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Your Home Is One of Your Most Important Financial Assets

Being proactive about pest prevention isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safeguarding your property value over time. Episode 44 gives you the knowledge you need to stay vigilant and make smart decisions for your home.

If you're noticing the signs of pests or have questions about how these issues affect buying or selling in today’s market, I’m always here to help.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 43 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 43 - Small Lender Big Impact: The Loan Daddy Difference

This week on Real Estate Tips with S & L, hosts Sherri & Lana sit down with Nate Bartlett of Loan Daddy, a boutique mortgage lender that’s proving you don’t need to be huge to make a big difference. From personal service to flexible programs, Nate shares what sets a smaller lender apart in a competitive industry.

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What We Learned

1. The power of personal service
Nate emphasizes that smaller lenders like Loan Daddy thrive on building relationships. Rather than being just another number, the borrower feels seen and supported throughout the whole process.

2. Flexibility matters
In a smaller organization, Nate explains they can pivot quickly — whether it’s tailoring underwriting for first‑time homebuyers or adapting to unique borrower needs. That flexibility gives them an edge in serving clients whom larger lenders might overlook.

3. Programs geared toward first‑time buyers
The episode covers specific mortgage programs designed to help newcomers to homeownership. Nate breaks down how his team guides borrowers through the options, making the process less intimidating.

4. Work‑life balance in the lending world
Nate shares that part of his mission is creating a team environment where people don’t burn out — and that leads to better outcomes for borrowers, because everyone is energized and focused.

5. Small company, big impact
What stands out is the idea that “small” doesn’t mean “less capable.” Nate positions Loan Daddy as a nimble alternative that still offers the expertise and support clients need—but does it in a more personalized, approachable way.

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Final Thought:
Episode 43 reminds us that in real estate and financing, size isn’t everything. When you partner with a lender that values service, adaptability, and people, you can get superior outcomes. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer or an experienced investor, working with a lender who moves fast and cares makes a real difference.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 42 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 42 - Wachusett Weekends: Fall Wrap-Up & Ski Season Countdown

In Episode 42 of Real Estate Tips with S & L, Sherri & Lana chat with Chris from Wachusett Mountain about the end-of-fall season, upcoming winter fun, and what’s new at the resort. From autumn foliage to the first snow of the season, this episode is a celebration of everything that makes Wachusett a year-round destination for adventure and family-friendly activities.

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Highlights from the Episode

1. Fall at Wachusett Mountain
Chris shares updates on the vibrant fall season—leaf-peeping hikes, seasonal festivals, and weekend events that have drawn families and outdoor enthusiasts to the mountain.

2. Preparing for Ski Season
The team is getting ready for winter with early snowmaking, slope preparations, and the anticipation of opening day. Chris gives listeners a sneak peek at what to expect when the lifts start turning.

3. New Chairlift Project
Exciting improvements are underway! Wachusett is investing in a new chairlift to enhance the skiing and snowboarding experience, making it faster, smoother, and more enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

4. Year-Round Activities
While winter is the highlight, Wachusett Mountain isn’t just a ski resort. Hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and special events keep the mountain buzzing throughout the year, giving locals and tourists plenty of reasons to visit every season.

5. Community and Fun
Chris emphasizes the resort’s role in the community—hosting events, supporting local businesses, and offering activities that bring families together. It’s not just about skiing; it’s about creating experiences and memories.

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Final Thoughts:
Episode 42 of Real Estate Tips with S & L is a reminder that Wachusett Mountain is more than a winter destination—it’s a year-round hub for outdoor adventure, community events, and seasonal fun. Whether you’re planning your first ski trip or enjoying a fall hike, there’s always something happening on the mountain.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 42 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 41 - Launch Space: How Creative Hubs Can Boost Neighborhood Value

In Episode 41 of Real Estate Tips with S & L, Sherri & Lana sit down with Brianna, co-founder of Launch Space, a creative makerspace in Orange (with plans in Athol). While the episode focuses on creativity—sewing, woodworking, 3D printing, and more—there’s an important connection to real estate: creative, community-driven spaces can activate neighborhoods, attract people, and create long-term property value.

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Key Takeaways from Launch Space

1. Makerspace as a Neighborhood Anchor
Launch Space offers memberships, classes, and programs for all ages. By drawing in creatives and hobbyists, it becomes more than just a studio—it’s a hub that adds foot traffic and energy to the area.

Investor Tip: Spaces that attract people can increase the appeal of surrounding properties. Keep an eye on creative hubs when scouting neighborhoods.

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2. Adaptive Reuse Creates Opportunity
Launch Space occupies a former industrial building. Converting underused spaces into creative hubs demonstrates the value of adaptive reuse.

Investor Tip: Look for under-utilized buildings that could be transformed into community or creative spaces—it’s a way to increase property value while supporting the neighborhood.

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3. Community Engagement Adds Value
Through programs like “Creative Sector Pathway: LAUNCH,” participants gain real-world skills and run micro-businesses. Launch Space strengthens the local community and workforce.

Investor Tip: A property that supports community and local businesses often enjoys higher tenant retention and appeal.

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4. Membership Model Supports Stability
With access for $60/month, Launch Space sustains its operations while offering consistent engagement.

Investor Tip: Long-term, stable tenants or community anchors can make an area more attractive for investment, creating a reliable flow of activity around your properties.

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5. Creative Hubs Activate Property
Launch Space isn’t just a business—it activates a building and the surrounding area, fostering energy and opportunity.

Investor Tip: Non-traditional amenities—makerspaces, creative studios, incubators—can enhance property value and community perception.

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Why Investors Should Care

Creative spaces like Launch Space show that value isn’t always in the walls themselves. Sometimes, it’s about what’s happening inside and around them. For investors, the takeaways are:

• Look for community anchors that attract people and activity.

• Consider adaptive reuse projects as a value-add opportunity.

• Seek tenants or programs that strengthen the neighborhood fabric.

• Think long-term: activated spaces often increase surrounding property values.

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Action Steps:

1. Scan neighborhoods for creative hubs or maker spaces.

2. Identify properties suitable for adaptive reuse.

3. Explore partnerships with local community programs.

4. Consider integrating creative tenants or amenities in your properties.

5. Keep a long-term mindset—neighborhood transformation takes time, but the payoff can be significant.

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Final Thought:

Launch Space isn’t just about woodworking or 3D printing—it’s about seeing community spaces as catalysts for real estate opportunity. For smart investors, creative hubs like Launch Space are more than a hobby—they’re a strategy.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 41 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 40 – More Than Apples: Red Apple Farm Through Every Season

Farms are more than fields and harvests—they’re places where community, tradition, and connection come together. In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Buying Power, we take you behind the scenes of Red Apple Farm, a true New England treasure that offers far more than its name suggests.

Red Apple Farm has been a staple for families, food lovers, and adventurers alike. With its roots in agriculture and its heart in hospitality, the farm has found a way to thrive through every season. From apple picking in the fall to warm cider by the fire in the winter, from maple season in the spring to festivals and sunflowers in the summer, Red Apple Farm has become a year-round destination.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

In my conversation with the team at Red Apple Farm, we explore:

• 🍎 Seasonal Magic – How the farm transforms with each season, offering new experiences and traditions.

• 🐝 Family Legacy – The rich history of this family-run farm and how they’ve stayed rooted while adapting to change.

• 🌻 Community Connection – The way Red Apple Farm has become a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

• 🍺 Unexpected Surprises – From hard cider to festivals, discover the little extras that make this farm special.

Why It Matters

Red Apple Farm isn’t just about apples—it’s about creating lasting memories. Whether it’s your child’s first hayride, a cozy winter visit with hot cider, or a summer day exploring the fields, the farm reflects the rhythm of New England life. It’s a reminder of how local businesses with deep community ties enrich all of us.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 40 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 39 – Mindset, Mistakes, and Magic: A Chat with Sara & Lana

Every successful real estate journey is shaped by a blend of mindset, lessons learned, and a little bit of magic along the way. In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Buying Power, I sit down with two powerhouse guests—Sara and Lana—to explore how personal growth, professional hurdles, and bold decisions all come together to create thriving businesses and fulfilling lives.

Meet Sara & Lana

Sara and Lana each bring a unique story and perspective to the table. Both women have carved their own paths in real estate, navigating challenges and transforming setbacks into opportunities. Their journeys highlight the importance of resilience, community, and choosing courage over comfort.

What We Cover in This Episode

Our conversation touches on the themes that matter most to anyone striving for success in real estate—or any business:

• Mindset Shifts – Why the way you think about challenges directly impacts the outcomes you create.

• Lessons from Mistakes – How Sara and Lana reframed “failures” into valuable building blocks for growth.

• The Role of Magic – Whether you call it intuition, alignment, or serendipity, we dig into those intangible moments that push you forward.

• Building Confidence – Practical strategies for finding your voice, showing up authentically, and leading with clarity.

• Collaboration Over Competition – The power of partnerships and learning from others’ experiences.

Why This Episode Matters

In real estate, it’s easy to focus only on numbers, deals, and strategies—but the truth is, your mindset is what drives long-term success. Sara and Lana’s stories are a reminder that success is rarely linear. It’s a process of embracing mistakes, staying open to growth, and trusting that a little bit of magic will always show up when you keep moving forward.

Tune In

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re on the right track, struggled with self-doubt, or wondered how to bounce back from setbacks, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and equipped with practical takeaways.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 39 now!

Have questions about real estate? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 38: Fire, Flood, and Falling Trees – Are You Protected?

Natural disasters aren’t something we like to think about—until they happen. And by then, it’s too late to protect your home, your investment, or your peace of mind.

In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Buying Power, we’re digging into the less glamorous (but critically important) side of real estate: risk, coverage, and disaster preparedness. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, long-time homeowner, or a real estate investor with multiple properties, the hard truth is this: standard insurance isn’t always enough.

What's Actually Covered (And What’s Not)

Joining us for this conversation is Joe Carter, a seasoned insurance agent and risk management expert who breaks down exactly what homeowners (and buyers) think is covered versus what actually is. Spoiler alert: fire? Yes. Floods? Not always. Falling trees? It depends.

We get into:

• The top overlooked insurance gaps that could cost you thousands

• Why flood insurance matters, even if you’re not in a floodplain

• What to ask your insurance agent before disaster strikes

• How investors can structure coverage across multiple properties

• And what to do right now if your property is vulnerable to fire, water, or wind damage

This episode is part cautionary tale, part practical checklist—because the reality is, most of us don’t realize what we’re missing until it’s too late. And with more frequent weather events and rising repair costs, being underinsured can be financially devastating.

A Quick Reality Check

Here’s the bottom line: Your home is likely your biggest asset. But in the insurance world, assumptions can be expensive. If you haven’t reviewed your policy in over a year, or if you’ve made upgrades like finishing a basement or adding an ADU, you might already be underinsured.

And if you’re an investor? Not all policies are created equal. Joe walks us through options tailored for rental properties, second homes, and even fix-and-flips.

Take Action Today

You don’t need to be an expert—you just need to ask the right questions. Start with these:

• Do I know my deductible for fire, wind, and flood claims?

• Do I have enough loss-of-use coverage if I can’t live in my home?

• Are my valuables (jewelry, art, electronics) properly covered?

• What happens if my tree damages a neighbor’s house?

If you couldn’t answer those confidently, this episode is your must-listen.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 38 now and take the first step toward better protection.

Have questions about homeownership or investing? Want a second look at your property coverage or a referral to a trusted insurance pro in your area? I’m always happy to help—let’s connect.

Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 37 — Bricks, Bucks & Buying Power

With Dave Stead, Jen Fox & Kerry Morton

In this episode, we’re breaking down one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of the buying process: financing. Whether you're a first-time buyer, an investor, or just real estate-curious, understanding how lending works—and how to use it strategically—can change everything.

To unpack it all, I brought in a powerhouse trio of local lending experts: Dave Stead, Jen Fox, and Kerry Morton. These three know the market, know the numbers, and—maybe most importantly—know how to talk to clients like real people.

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💡 What We Talked About:

We covered a lot of ground in this one—from credit scores and debt-to-income ratios to the role local lenders play in making or breaking deals. But one core message came through: buying power isn’t just about your bank account—it’s about your team, your timing, and your mindset.

Here are just a few of the key takeaways:

• Local lenders vs. big banks: Why working with a local expert can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful for everyone involved.

• Credit confusion: The difference between what you think your credit score is and what actually matters to a lender.

• Pre-approval myths: What it really means to be "pre-approved" and why it's more than just an online form.

• Debt-to-income ratios: How this number is calculated, and why buyers with student loans or other debts aren’t automatically disqualified.

• Mindset shifts: How to move away from "waiting for rates to drop" and instead focus on buying smart now—with the option to refinance later.

 

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🎧 Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious about building wealth, this episode delivers real-world takeaways, watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 36 – Wildly Local with Faith at the North County Land Trust

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of North Central Massachusetts conservation efforts with Faith from the North County Land Trust (NCLT) — a nonprofit that's been protecting the region's land, wildlife, and natural beauty since 1992. If you’ve ever hiked a local trail, admired an untouched forest, or picked up fresh veggies at a local farmstand, chances are the NCLT has played a part in keeping those wild and wonderful spaces thriving.

🌿 Who is the North County Land Trust?
Based in Leominster, the North County Land Trust is focused on land conservation, stewardship, and environmental education. Their mission goes beyond just protecting open space — they actively engage with the community through outreach, education, and partnerships with towns and landowners.

Faith walks us through how land trusts like NCLT operate — from working with private landowners to preserve property, to restoring habitat for threatened species, and ensuring public access to some of the most beautiful places in the region.

🏞️ Why This Work Matters Now
As development expands and climate change intensifies, land conservation has never been more urgent. Faith shares how NCLT is preserving not only land but also local character, biodiversity, and sustainability. Their work ensures that future generations can enjoy the same wild trails, quiet forests, and vibrant farms we do today.

We talk about:

• How NCLT partners with towns and individuals to permanently protect land
• The importance of land access and equity
• How conserved land can support local food systems and climate resilience
• Trails, events, and other ways to get involved locally

🛶 Wildly Local Living
Faith also shares her personal journey — how her background in planning and passion for place brought her to this role. Her insights remind us that “local” isn’t just about shopping down the street. It’s about connecting to the land beneath our feet, supporting the ecosystems around us, and protecting the places that make New England special.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves hiking, farming, local food, conservation, or simply wants to better understand what’s happening behind the scenes to protect our natural spaces.

 

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🎧 Tune in now to hear how Faith and the NCLT are working to keep our corner of the world wild — in the best way possible. Listen below, watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.

Episode 35 – Through the Lens: From Launching to Leading a Business

In this episode, we sit down with a dynamic local business owner who shares her journey from launching a small photography side hustle to running a thriving full-time business. This conversation is packed with entrepreneurial insight, creative inspiration, and real-world advice for anyone looking to turn a passion into a profession.

Key Takeaways:
The Leap from Hobby to Business
Our guest talks about how she took the leap from part-time photography to full-time entrepreneurship. She shares the challenges she faced early on — from imposter syndrome to learning the ropes of client management — and what ultimately pushed her to go all in on her business.

Building a Brand with Purpose
More than just taking beautiful photos, she focused on building a brand that reflected her values. We discuss how branding, client experience, and authenticity helped her stand out in a competitive industry.

Navigating the Business Side of Creativity
Creative work is only half the equation. Our guest opens up about learning the backend of business — contracts, pricing, taxes, and marketing — and how mastering these areas was essential for long-term success.

Lessons in Leadership and Growth
Now a business owner with a growing client base, she reflects on what it means to lead — not just in business, but in community and collaboration. From outsourcing tasks to maintaining work-life balance, we explore what sustainable success looks like behind the scenes.

Why You Should Listen:
If you’ve ever thought about turning your passion into a business — or if you’re already on that path — this episode is full of honest, relatable advice and encouragement. Whether you're a creative entrepreneur or just looking for motivation to take the next step in your journey, you’ll find inspiration and actionable tips in this conversation.

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🔗 Tune in: Listen to the full episode below, watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Check out My Little Black Book for a list of my trusted service professionals.

I am your local real estate expert Making Realty Dreams Reality. Give me a call at 978-855-9112 or fill out this contact me form to get started on your homeownership journey.