Show cover of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast with Karen Cooper

Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast with Karen Cooper

Empowering Women in Real Estate®. Listen in as I share stories and tips from my life and business, and interview some of my favorite people.

Tracks

What happens when you keep every promise you make to everyone else—but repeatedly break the ones you make to yourself? In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast, Karen sits down with Rosemary Lewis, associate broker, coach, and "real estate bestie," for an honest conversation about self-trust, faith, vulnerability, and the small commitments that shape who we become. Rosemary shares how a nudge to "go help" led her from teaching into real estate, how success and loss changed the way she views business, and why no amount of striving can fill the places that require deeper healing and faith. Together, Karen and Rosemary explore how repeatedly putting yourself last can quietly erode your confidence—and how keeping even one meaningful promise to yourself can begin to rebuild trust, unlock courage, and change the way you show up in your life, relationships, and business. You'll also hear why asking for help is not a sign of weakness, the importance of being vulnerable in the right rooms, and Rosemary's encouragement for any woman who feels discouraged by her year so far: focus on what you can do today. The basics may be boring, but they work. This conversation is a powerful reminder that you do not have to outwork your pain, hide in plain sight, or keep removing yourself from your own priority list. Listen to Episode 418: Keeping Promises to Yourself with Rosemary Lewis.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

8/12/26 • 28:46

You can be successful, earn a strong income, and still feel financially stressed. For many women in real estate, the problem isn't the ability to make money. It's that no one ever taught us how to manage inconsistent income, prepare for taxes, create financial stability, or run the business side of the business. In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast, Karen sits down with business strategist and bestselling author Michelle Jacobik to talk about the hidden financial pressure successful women often carry—and why earning more money doesn't automatically create more peace. Michelle shares why revenue without a system can actually make the financial gaps in your business bigger, how financial avoidance erodes self-trust, and what it takes to build real clarity, confidence, and stability in both your business and personal finances. They also talk about shifting from "what-if worry" to "what-if possibility," Michelle's standing Friday appointment with her voice of doubt, and how one courageous investment led to an extraordinary opportunity with Ed Mylett. Michelle will also be speaking at the 2026 Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference, where she'll help attendees uncover the financial stress hiding beneath their success and begin creating a path toward greater profit and personal peace.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

8/5/26 • 27:47

For the past 12 years, Karen Cooper has had a front-row seat to the experiences of tens of thousands of women in real estate through her community, Empowering Women in Real Estate®. And across every level of success, certain patterns continue to appear. Every woman questions herself. Every woman loses clients, makes mistakes, and considers quitting at some point. The women with the most staying power are not the ones who avoid hard seasons, but the ones who learn how to recover, evolve, and build their businesses in a way that can evolve with them. And so much more. In this special anniversary episode, Karen shares what 12 years of Empowering Women in Real Estate® has taught her about mindset, consistency, comparison, relationships, ego, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who expand what you believe is possible. You'll hear why there is no substitute for doing the work, why connecting with people matters more than your CRM or branding, and why there is no single right way to build a successful real estate business. Most of all, this episode is a reminder that you are not the only one navigating doubt, disappointment, change, or uncertainty—and you are allowed to create a business that supports the life you want now.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

7/29/26 • 45:21

In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast, Karen sits down with style coach Afton Porter for a conversation that goes far beyond fashion. Together, they explore how style impacts confidence, presence, personal branding, and the way women show up in their businesses — especially in midlife. Afton shares why the clothes in your closet may no longer reflect the woman you are today, how color and presentation influence first impressions, and why becoming unforgettable starts with feeling aligned, authentic, and confident in your own skin. If you have ever looked in your closet and felt like nothing works anymore, or wondered how to show up more confidently in your business without pretending to be someone you're not, this episode is for you.     You can get Afton's freebie at:  https://www.HouseofIconicStyle.com/Iconic    Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

7/22/26 • 27:30

What if one of the biggest factors impacting your business isn't your marketing, your scripts, or your systems—but your nervous system? In this powerful conversation, Karen sits down with psychologist, trauma specialist and neuroscientist Dr. Monique Thompson to explore how stress, anxiety and an overwhelmed nervous system quietly shape the way we lead, communicate, make decisions and show up for our clients. Drawing from more than 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Monique shares practical, science-backed tools that can help you regulate your nervous system in just minutes—without expensive programs, complicated routines or adding more to your already full plate. Together, they discuss: Why women often carry stress differently—and what to do about it The surprising connection between your nervous system and your business performance How social media and constant input teach us to disconnect from ourselves A simple five-minute practice that can help you quiet your mind and access your own inner wisdom Why self-acceptance isn't self-excusal—and how embracing who you are changes everything How to "outnumber the not helpful" by building healthier support systems Why the most important tool you'll ever need is one you've had your entire life: yourself Whether you're feeling burned out, anxious, overwhelmed, or simply ready to lead your business from a healthier place, this conversation offers practical hope and simple tools you can begin using today. This isn't just a conversation about mental health. It's a conversation about becoming the kind of leader—and woman—you were created to be.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

7/15/26 • 41:20

In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, Karen is joined by Marcella Oakley and Elia Alfonso for a powerful conversation on presence, confidence, safety, emotional regulation, and leading through high-pressure moments. Marcella and Elia bring their backgrounds in law enforcement, hostage negotiation, crisis management, defensive tactics, and real estate to talk about the tools women need but are rarely taught in this industry. From walking into a room with confidence, to managing client emotions, to regulating yourself before reacting, this episode is a reminder that presence is not about being loud or aggressive. It is about being grounded, aware, and able to lead. This conversation is especially relevant for women in real estate who are constantly managing stress, crisis, negotiations, and other people's emotions while trying to protect their own peace, safety, and confidence.   You can connect with Marcella and Elia and learn more about their programs at www.TheVerityAccord.com   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/ Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

7/8/26 • 31:10

What if the key to growing your business isn't another marketing tactic, but simply being more of yourself? In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate®, I'm joined by speaker, coach, and personal branding expert Krista Demcher for a powerful conversation about authenticity, visibility, and why you are your most important business asset. Krista shares how her own journey from struggling salesperson to successful entrepreneur taught her that people don't connect with perfection. They connect with real people. Together, we discuss why so many women in real estate hold themselves back from showing up online, how to build confidence in selling yourself without feeling salesy, and why your unique personality is actually your greatest marketing advantage. We also dive into the role of storytelling, personal branding, social media, and the importance of embracing what makes you different instead of trying to blend in. If you've ever felt uncomfortable promoting yourself, struggled with what to post on social media, or worried about being judged for showing up online, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why authenticity matters more than ever in an AI-driven world How to sell yourself without feeling pushy or salesy The connection between personal branding and client trust Why trying to appeal to everyone often appeals to no one The power of sharing your story Krista's framework of Style, Stance, and Story Why "real beats perfect" every time Krista is also one of the keynote speakers for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference, so this episode is a great chance to get a preview of her talk!   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/\ Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

7/1/26 • 36:56

We are halfway through the year, and this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and refresh. In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, Karen shares a thoughtful mid-year refresh process for women in real estate. This is not just about reviewing numbers or checking whether you are on pace with your goals. It is about acknowledging what has worked, celebrating what you have accomplished, reviewing the data in your business, and giving yourself permission to adjust what no longer fits. Karen walks you through three key areas: acknowledge and celebrate, take inventory and review the data, and set the course for the second half of the year. You will hear practical questions to help you evaluate where your business has come from, what marketing is actually working, what habits may need to shift, and how you want the rest of your year to feel. Because sometimes the most powerful thing you can do at mid-year is not push harder. It is pause, refresh, and choose what comes next with intention. And don't forget, this is also our July Monthly Meet Up topic inside our Empowering Women in Real Estate® community. I would love for you to join us in person or virtually. Check out the Local Leader Directory here if you are looking for in-person: https://empoweringwomeninrealestate.com/local-leader-directory/  Or you can join me on July 2nd at 1 pm EST for the Virtual Meet Up. Register here for the Zoom, it's free! https://bit.ly/vmuregistration     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

6/24/26 • 31:50

What if the thing holding you back in your business isn't your marketing, your systems, or your lead generation strategy? What if it's your nervous system? In this powerful conversation, Karen sits down with mindset and business coach Jaemi Pierson to talk about why so many ambitious women are operating in a constant state of urgency, overwhelm, and reactivity—and how it's impacting both their businesses and their lives. Together, they explore the connection between nervous system regulation, decision-making, burnout, comparison, boundaries, and sustainable success. Jamie shares why investing in yourself may be the most important business investment you can make and offers practical strategies to create more calm, focus, and clarity in your day. If you've ever felt exhausted by the constant pressure to do more, be more, or keep up, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we discuss: • Why your nervous system is one of your greatest business assets • The difference between being reactive and being regulated • How comparison pulls you out of your own success • Why boundaries create better businesses and stronger client relationships • The hidden cost of constant accessibility and phone addiction • How to create more white space, clarity, and focus in your day • Building a business that feels as good as it looks This episode is a reminder that sustainable success doesn't come from doing more. It comes from learning how to lead yourself first.   You can learn more about Jaemi and connect with her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jaemi.pierson/     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

6/17/26 • 42:08

In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, I'm joined by Christina Mesones for a conversation about dual career agents and the support they need to succeed. Christina shares her journey from more than 20 years in the title industry to becoming a real estate agent, mentor, and resource for agents who are building their business while also balancing another career. We talk about the stigma dual career agents often face, why "part-time agent" doesn't tell the whole story, and how systems, support, mentorship, and community can make all the difference. If you are a dual career agent, or you've ever felt like you were trying to build your business with limited time and limited support, this episode is for you.   You can register for the next Dual-Career Collective Monthly Pop In Mastermind on June 23rd at 11 am EST here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/60PsNSVKSgWNXvSHfl8etQ   You can connect with Christina on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/christinamesones_realtor/     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

6/10/26 • 35:40

On this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, I'm sharing a very personal reflection as I approach my 53rd birthday. For a long time, I thought success at this stage of life would mean having it all figured out. More confidence. Less pressure. More freedom. More certainty. But what I've learned is that success in midlife often looks very different than what we imagined in our 20s and 30s. In this episode, I'm talking about:   burnout and recovery the pressure of social media and constant industry noise achievement vs. fulfillment sustainability in business and life health, boundaries, and authenticity evolving instead of holding on creating freedom intentionally learning to stop trying to please everyone and what success actually means to me now at 53   This is an honest conversation about midlife, growth, and building a business and life that feel as good on the inside as they look on the outside. Thank you for listening.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/   Tickets are now available for our 6th Annual Empowering Women in Real Estate® Conference! The conference is on September 29-30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dulles, Virginia. You can get all the details and get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/EWREConference

6/3/26 • 35:47

Summer can bring a shift in routines, priorities and energy — both for you and your clients. In this episode, Karen shares practical, creative and relationship-focused marketing ideas to help you stay visible and consistent during the summer months without sacrificing your quality of life. From summer pop-bys and local events to newsletters, postcards, vendor partnerships and back-to-school marketing ideas, this episode is packed with simple strategies you can implement right away. Karen also shares her philosophy on avoiding the "summer shutdown" that often leads to burnout and inconsistent business cycles — and why a slow, steady drip of marketing matters more than going all in and disappearing completely. You'll also hear details about the June Empowering Women in Real Estate® Monthly Meet Ups happening in cities across the country, plus the upcoming virtual meet up on Tuesday, June 2nd at 10:30 AM EST.   You can see all the locations for the in-person Meet Ups at https://empoweringwomeninrealestate.com/local-leader-directory/ , or to register for our (free) virtual meet up, go here https://bit.ly/vmuregistration .   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/  

5/27/26 • 17:38

In this powerful episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, Karen sits down with Maty Bradbury for a deeply honest conversation about burnout, faith, boundaries, healing, and what happens when life forces you to finally be still. After experiencing two seasons of burnout and a serious car accident, Maty began to recognize that she was the common thread in the stress, pressure, over-responsibility, and constant striving she had been carrying for years. Together, Karen and Maty talk about tying your worth to production, learning to ask for help, discerning what deserves your energy, and building a real estate business that honors the season of life you are actually in. This episode is heartfelt, vulnerable, and full of reminders for any woman in real estate who has been carrying too much for too long.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

5/20/26 • 55:01

When was the last time you gave yourself permission to dream? In this episode, Karen shares a heartfelt reflection on the "crazy ideas" that shaped her career — from getting into real estate after being laid off, to starting a team, building Empowering Women in Real Estate®, and expanding nationally across 22 states. Inspired by a recent conversation about the future of the real estate industry, this episode is a reminder that some of the best things in life and business begin as ideas that make no sense … until one day, they do. If you've been feeling stuck in the monotony of the to-do list, overwhelmed by the day-to-day, or disconnected from what excites you, this conversation will encourage you to pause, reflect, and dream again. Because sometimes the next chapter of your life starts with one simple question:"What if?"   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 41,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

5/13/26 • 17:40

What if an open house wasn't just a weekend activity, but part of your daily business-building system? In this episode, I'm joined by Lisa Archer, a 21+ year realtor and team leader serving multiple markets across the Carolinas and beyond. Lisa shares the simple, consistent open house strategy her team uses to generate listings, attract buyers, create neighborhood visibility, and build serious momentum. Last year alone, her team tracked 347 open houses, with 32 listings selling to buyers who came through those open houses. We talk about how she makes daily open houses work, why "there's no such thing as a bad open house," and how agents can use this strategy even if they don't currently have listings of their own. If you've been looking for a simple, practical way to create more opportunity in your business, this episode is for you.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

5/6/26 • 30:18

What if one of the most powerful ways to grow your real estate business was already all around you? In this episode, I'm sharing one of the most impactful strategies I've used over the past 20+ years—focusing deeply on my local community. Not in a complicated or overly strategic way, but by simply leaning into what I was already doing and going a little deeper. From schools and sports to local businesses, social media, and everyday routines, I walk you through how to turn your daily life into meaningful visibility, connection, and long-term business growth—without adding more to your plate. This isn't about doing more. It's about doing what you're already doing with more intention. This conversation is also the focus of our May Empowering Women in Real Estate® Monthly Meet Ups happening in cities across the country—casual, in-person gatherings where women in real estate connect and talk through this exact topic.  Want to join us? • Find an in-person Monthly Meet Up near you at EmpoweringWomenInRealEstate.com • Or join me for our Virtual Meet Up on May 7th at 1 PM EST (free on Zoom): https://bit.ly/vmuregistration If you've been feeling like you need a better plan, a new strategy, or something different … this might just be your reminder that the answer is closer than you think.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/  

4/29/26 • 25:28

What if the skills used in hostage negotiations could completely transform the way you navigate real estate? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I'm joined by Marcella Oakley—real estate team leader, former SVU detective, and trained hostage negotiator turned negotiation coach. Marcella brings a perspective that most agents have never been taught … but desperately need. Because the truth is—real estate isn't just about contracts and transactions. It's about managing emotions, navigating high-stakes conversations, and guiding people through some of the most stressful moments of their lives. Inside this episode, we dive into:   Why real estate agents are actually crisis managers (and how to embrace that role) The concept of tactical (cognitive) empathy—and how it builds trust without burnout How "fighting" in negotiations often backfires (and what to do instead) The hidden cost of defensive communication between agents—and how it impacts your future deals Why trust—not pressure—is the foundation of successful negotiations How to slow down, ask better questions, and uncover the real story behind your clients' decisions The importance of having your own "team" to support you—personally and professionally Practical ways to protect your mindset and reduce stress in high-pressure situations Marcella also shares how these principles don't just improve your deals—they change how you experience your business. Less stress. More connection. Better outcomes for everyone involved. If you've ever felt the weight of difficult clients, tense negotiations, or the emotional toll of this industry … this episode will give you a completely new way to approach it. Plus, we're inviting you to go deeper—Marcella will be hosting a free live webinar for our Empowering Women in Real Estate® community, where she'll teach you exactly how to apply these techniques in your business. Use this link to register: https://bit.ly/EWREGrowthSession This is one of those conversations that will stay with you—and change the way you show up in every transaction moving forward.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

4/22/26 • 26:38

In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast, I'm talking about something we do not discuss nearly enough in this industry: stress and anxiety. So many women in real estate are carrying the weight of constant pressure, nonstop availability, empty pipeline fears, overloaded schedules, burnout, and the emotional toll of trying to keep it all looking fine on the outside. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. In this conversation, I'm sharing some of my own very real experiences with stress and anxiety in business and life, how it shows up for me, and a few simple strategies that help me interrupt the spiral when it starts. From gratitude and prayer to getting outside, reducing caffeine, making a list, and creating better boundaries, this episode is an honest look at what it means to care for yourself while building and sustaining your business. This is an important conversation, and it is one we need to have more often.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

4/15/26 • 24:59

400 episodes … and it all comes down to one thing: consistency. In this milestone episode, I'm sharing the real lessons behind what it takes to keep showing up. Not just in podcasting, but in your business and your life. Because consistency isn't about adding more things to your already overcrowded plate, it's about doing the right things … over and over again. Inside this episode, I share 5 key principles that have helped me:   build a community of 41,000+ women in real estate create a consistent real estate sales business year after year stay committed, even when it would have been easier to stop We talk about:   why consistency creates momentum how to make it easier (not harder) and what to do if you've been stuck in an "on and off" cycle If you've ever struggled with consistency, this episode is for you.

4/8/26 • 35:21

How you start your morning can shape everything that follows. In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast, I'm joined by bestselling author Jennifer Dukes Lee to talk about how creating intentional morning rituals can bring more peace, purpose, and joy into your day — even in the middle of a busy life and business. Jennifer shares the inspiration behind her new book How to Love Your Morning (releasing April 7th), and why she believes mornings are not about rigid routines or waking up at 4:30 AM. Instead, they are about creating meaningful rituals that help you begin your day grounded, intentional, and connected to what matters most. We talk about the difference between a routine and a ritual, how your identity shapes the way you approach mornings, and why even a few intentional minutes at the start of the day can change your mindset and energy. Jennifer also shares wisdom from interviewing 100 women across different seasons of life about what actually helps them start their day well. In this episode, we discuss: • Why mornings are so powerful — and why they matter for busy professionals • The difference between a morning routine and a morning ritual • Why you don't have to wake up early to become a "morning person" • How morning rituals can sustain you during stressful or caregiving seasons • The surprising impact of "revenge bedtime procrastination" on your mornings • Practical ideas from women in many stages of life for starting the day with intention If your mornings often feel rushed, reactive, or chaotic, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you begin your day — and how a few intentional moments can change everything. You can pre-order Jennifer's book here: https://amzn.to/4d169be You can connect with and follow Jennifer on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferdukeslee/     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

4/1/26 • 27:51

We are nearing the end of the first quarter of the year—and whether business has felt busy or slow, this is the perfect moment to pause and take a look at what's actually happening in your business. In this episode, I walk you through a simple but powerful 1st Quarter Review process that will help you: • analyze your closed and pending transactions • identify the real sources of your business • evaluate your current pipeline and active opportunities • reflect on your biggest challenges and successes • determine whether you're on track to reach your goals for the year • choose a clear focus for the second quarter   This doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Block an hour, grab your numbers, and walk through the process with me. A quarterly review is one of the best ways to build a consistent, sustainable real estate business—because it helps you see what's working, what needs attention, and where your next opportunities are. This episode will give you the framework to do exactly that.   Also mentioned in this episode: Our Empowering Women in Real Estate® Monthly Meet-Ups across the country will be discussing the 1st Quarter Review throughout April. If you'd like to attend a meetup in your city, go to EmpoweringWomenInRealEstate.com and click on Monthly Meet Ups. If you'd like to join the virtual meetup hosted by me, you can register here: https://bit.ly/vmuregistration   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

3/25/26 • 22:00

Imposter syndrome doesn't always show up as "I'm not good enough." Sometimes it shows up as overworking. Overtracking. Overthinking. Comparing. Second-guessing what's already working … and then rebuilding your business (or your identity) from scratch because someone else looks like they're winning harder. In this episode, I'm joined by Dani Hampton from The Real Dani Show for an honest conversation about how imposter syndrome and comparison feed each other — and why this can be especially costly for successful, high-capacity women in real estate. We talk about:   The "inspired to insecure" switch that happens when you scroll Why imposter syndrome doesn't go away just because you've been in the business longer How comparison can derail momentum (and profitability) in a business that already works Defining what a "win" looks like in this season of life The importance of grounding routines, faith, and coming back to who you really are If you've been feeling triggered by what you see online, questioning your value, or tempted to overhaul everything… this is your reminder: you don't need a new identity. You need a clearer connection to your own. Listen now to episode 397 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast on your favorite podcast app.

3/18/26 • 53:29

What happens when a 20-year real estate veteran says yes to mentoring a brand-new agent? In this episode, I sit down with Platinum Group team members Jodi Hooper and Val Ovalle to talk about a modern mentorship story that has transformed both of their businesses. Jodi has been licensed since 2005. After years of saying she might retire "soon," she found something she didn't know she needed — mentoring. Val joined our team in late August, received her license in September… and was our Top Producer by December — less than four months into her career. But this episode isn't about production numbers. It's about:   What new agents really need in their first 90 days Why mentorship is more than just contracts and compliance How experienced agents can build a path toward legacy with mentorship The power of collaboration over competition And why no one should try to do this business alone If you're a new agent wondering where to start… Or a seasoned agent wondering what's next… This conversation will give you perspective, possibility, and maybe even a new path forward. Listen now to episode 396 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast on your favorite podcast app.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

3/11/26 • 40:20

What if your next stream of real estate leads didn't come from cold calling, paid ads, or chasing the latest trend, but from building a local online community people genuinely love? In this episode, I'm joined by Tina Beliveau of Baltimore, MD, a 21-year real estate veteran, team leader, and coach who rebuilt and scaled her business using a hyper-local Facebook community group. Tina breaks down exactly how she runs a group that serves her community, grows consistently, and quietly turns into a reliable lead generator. You'll hear how she: Built a 10,000-member Facebook group in a single zip code Systematized the content so it does not require constant effort Set clear rules to keep the community positive (and not turn into "Nextdoor") Uses simple lead capture methods like join questions, DM templates, and quarterly giveaways Turns group members into email subscribers and nurtures them long-term Protects the integrity of the group while still staying visible as the local go-to agent If you've been thinking about starting a community group but feel overwhelmed by the "how," this conversation will give you a practical path forward.   Tina's FREE Bootcamp (starts March 10) Tina is hosting a free bootcamp to help agents actually launch their Facebook group with a plan for content, growth, and lead capture. Join here: https://tinabeliveau.myflodesk.com/bootcamp Connect with Tina Instagram: @highperformanceagent Email: tina@tinabeliveau.com   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

3/4/26 • 57:08

Confidence in real estate isn't about being loud or arrogant. It's about clarity. In this episode, I'm breaking down what business confidence really looks like and why owning your value is one of the most important skills you can develop as a real estate professional. We talk about how confidence shows up in your boundaries, your pricing, your communication, and how you handle difficult situations. I also share why confidence fluctuates (even for experienced agents), how comparison and market shifts quietly erode it, and why tying your confidence to outcomes will always keep you stuck. I walk you through three core areas every agent must be clear on in order to lead with confidence:   How you work What you charge Who you serve And I close the episode with a simple but powerful exercise to help you reconnect with the value you already bring to the table … especially if you've been feeling unsure, discouraged, or disconnected from your confidence lately. If you've ever questioned your worth, your pricing, your boundaries, or your place in this industry, this episode is for you. Listen now to episode 394 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast on your favorite podcast app or by clicking the link below.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

2/25/26 • 31:07

What if success in real estate didn't have to come at the expense of your presence at home? In this episode, I'm joined by Kerry McDonald, one of my team's top producers, for a powerful and honest conversation about redefining success in real estate during motherhood. Kerry shares her journey from a high-volume, hustle-heavy team environment to building a business that supports her life as a mom, without sacrificing income, confidence, or momentum. We talk about betting on yourself, leaning into systems, letting go of hustle culture, and giving yourself permission to define what "enough" really looks like. If you've ever felt torn between growing your business and being present for your family, this conversation will remind you that there is another way. In this episode, we discuss:   What it really means to be "present and profitable" Why producing less can sometimes feel more fulfilling The power of systems over hustle How to plan for growth while honoring your current season Redefining success beyond transactions and volume  Listen now to episode 393 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast on your favorite podcast app or by clicking the link below. You can connect with Kerry on Instagram @kerryhokie   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

2/18/26 • 46:23

Teams are hard. They're complex, emotionally heavy, and often far less profitable than people assume. And if you're leading a team right now that feels more draining than fulfilling … it's time to rethink how your team works, not whether you're cut out for leadership. In this episode, I'm sharing what I've learned after 11 years as a team leader and two years into national expansion with our team. I'm walking you through the moments when a team model stops working, and why that's not a failure. Sometimes it's because of success. Sometimes it's the market. Sometimes it's the season of life you're in. And sometimes it's because the "old way" just isn't sustainable anymore … either for you or for your team members. You'll also hear the specific shifts we made that changed everything … including the biggest mistake we made early in expansion, how we simplified service levels, reduced overhead, and created a structure that's more stable financially and lighter emotionally. If you're rethinking your team model (whether you want to expand nationally or simply run your local team differently), start here. Listen now to episode 392 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® - The Podcast on your favorite podcast app or by clicking the link below.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

2/11/26 • 51:33

Ever open Instagram or Facebook for a quick scroll … and suddenly feel that drop in your stomach? Someone else just won an award. Signed a pile of listings. Posted a highlight reel that looks so polished. And even if you're happy for them, something in you starts whispering: I'm not doing enough. I'm not doing it right. I'm not good enough. In this episode, I'm talking about The Comparison Trap — and how it pulls you off track in two big ways: the immediate disruption (the urge to change everything) and the slow erosion of confidence that happens over time. We'll talk about how to recognize when it's happening, why it's especially costly for experienced agents, and how to get yourself back to center … with clarity, peace, and focus on your definition of a win.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

2/4/26 • 26:19

By the end of January, the excitement of a fresh start often fades—and for many women in real estate, consistency is the first thing to slip. In this episode of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast, Karen shares why motivation is unreliable and what actually creates sustainable success. Hustle and willpower only take you so far; clarity, realistic habits, and accountability are what carry you through the rest of the year. In this episode, you'll learn:   Why motivation fades (and why that's completely normal) How overly complicated habits quietly sabotage consistency Why small, realistic actions compound over time How to reconnect with the why behind your goals Three forms of accountability that actually work If you're feeling behind, overwhelmed, or tempted to give up on the goals you set just weeks ago, this episode will help you reset without guilt and move forward with intention.   Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

1/28/26 • 31:04

In this episode, I'm sharing my 2026 goals — and more importantly, how I plan to achieve them. I'm walking you through the five goals I've set for the year, why I approached goal-setting differently this time, and how my 2026 word of the year — surrender — is shaping both my life and my business. We'll talk about:   Letting go of control and perfection in goal setting Why personal and business goals can't (and shouldn't) be separated What it looks like to focus on embodiment instead of constant tracking Creating consistent, meaningful impact through generosity And my core business goal for 2026: creating opportunities for women in real estate that wouldn't exist otherwise I'm also breaking down the specific action steps behind each goal — because vision without a plan doesn't get you very far. If you're heading into this year craving clarity, simplicity, and a way forward that actually feels sustainable, this episode is for you.  Listen now and then come share your goals with us inside the Empowering Women in Real Estate® Facebook community. The resource mentioned in the show is the PowerSheets Goal Planner from Cultivate What Matters. You can review all of their products here: http://cultivatewhatmatters.com/EMPOWERINGWOMENINRE And when you use code EMPOWERINGWOMENINRE you will save 10%!     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

1/21/26 • 32:24