The Key with Kim Mills

In this heartfelt interview, Kim Mills speaks with Kate Hare about her journey through her son's pediatric cancer diagnosis, the creation of the Callahan Murphy Hare Foundation, and how she turned personal tragedy into a mission to fund innovative research and support families. Discover insights on pediatric cancer, the importance of community, and how small acts of support can make a big difference. Takeaways: Small, consistent acts of kindness can have a profound impact during challenging times. Embracing gradual progress helps maintain motivation and reduces frustration in complex situations. Collaborative efforts and targeted funding drive innovation and effective solutions in specialized fields. Links & Resources: Sips and Stones invite list: https://floral-morning-48799.myflodesk.com/ary5796uem Callahan Murphy Hare Foundation Instagram Kate Hare Instagram Pluma Jewelry Instagtram Sybariterian Instagram Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode of The Key, Kim Mills dives into the powerful connection between boundaries, mindset, and living a more aligned life. If you feel overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like everything demands your time and energy, this conversation will help you reset. Kim shares five practical strategies to protect your time, reduce burnout, and focus on what truly matters, including how to identify your core values, create a "hell yes, hell no, not right now" decision filter, overcome people-pleasing guilt, strengthen your self-talk, and implement a simple daily habit called the Non-Negotiable 15. Drawing from her experience coaching high-achieving professionals, busy moms, and athletes, Kim explains why success isn't about doing more—it's about protecting your energy, setting clear boundaries, and building a mindset that supports the life you actually want. If you're looking for mindset tips, productivity strategies, boundary-setting advice, and personal growth insights, this episode will give you actionable tools you can start using today to create more clarity, peace, and balance in your life. Takeaways: Clarify your values first so your boundaries come from what truly matters to you, not from other people's expectations or demands. Use a simple decision filter—"hell yes, hell no, or not right now" to protect your time, energy, and attention from things that don't align with your current season. Create space for yourself with a daily "Non-Negotiable 15" minutes to reset, reflect, and maintain the boundaries that keep your life from feeling overwhelming. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this conversation, Kim Mills and Stephanie Hanna delve into the importance of effective communication and setting boundaries, particularly for women. They discuss the challenges women face in asserting themselves, the myths surrounding communication, and practical strategies for becoming better communicators. The discussion also covers how to identify personal boundaries, protect one's time, and navigate family and friendship dynamics. The episode concludes with actionable tips and resources for listeners to implement in their own lives.   Takeaways: Women often struggle with communication due to people-pleasing tendencies. Identifying personal values can help in making decisions about boundaries. Communication should be a regular practice, not a dramatic event. Recognizing pain points in life can help identify where boundaries are needed. Friendship dynamics can change, and it's okay to let go of draining relationships. Connect with Stephanie: Instagram Website Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode, Kim breaks down why high-end properties don't sell themselves and what actually moves them in today's market. If you've ever wondered why a beautiful home can stall, why price reductions hurt momentum, or why "just testing the market" backfires, this conversation pulls back the curtain. You'll learn the three biggest reasons luxury listings linger — aspirational pricing, misaligned exposure, and presentation that doesn't match the ask — and what to do instead. Kim walks through how to price with both data and psychology, why the first 7–10 days on market are critical, how to curate a home so it feels effortless (not cluttered), and why luxury marketing is about storytelling plus strategic distribution. Takeaways: Luxury pricing must create momentum, starting too high trains the market to ignore you. Exposure only works if it reaches the right buyers and the right agents, not just more views. Presentation has to match the price point from day one. The first 7–10 days on market are critical; preparation and strategy determine whether you build excitement. Luxury buyers aren't just buying a house, they're buying ease, lifestyle, craftsmanship, and confidence in the process. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kimmillsgroup/  Website: http://www.sellwithmills.com/

Thinking about buying a new home while selling your current one? In this episode, Kim breaks down the three smartest move-up strategies: sell first, buy first, or use an in-between approach like rent-backs and bridge financing. If you're worried about carrying two mortgages, timing the market, qualifying for financing, or avoiding the stress of temporary housing, this conversation will help you create a clear, strategic plan. You'll learn the pros and cons of each option, how to evaluate your risk tolerance, how competitive market conditions impact your decision, and the key questions that make your next move obvious. If you're a move-up buyer, right-sizer, or homeowner navigating today's real estate market, this episode will help you move forward with confidence instead of chaos. Takeaways: There is no one "right" way to buy and sell at the same time — only the strategy that fits your finances, timeline, and risk tolerance. Selling first offers stability and clarity, while buying first offers control and flexibility. In-between strategies like rent-backs, extended closings, and bridge financing can reduce stress when structured correctly. The most successful move-up buyers treat the process like a project plan, not an emotional reaction. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this podcast conversation, Kim Mills interviews Amy Jo Hamilton, the founder of The Balanced Child Method, a traveling kids yoga business. They discuss Amy's journey, the importance of mindfulness and emotional intelligence for children, and the growth of her business. Amy shares insights on how her program supports not only children but also teachers and caregivers through workshops and continuing education. The conversation also highlights Amy's recent recognition from Goldman Sachs and the impact of her work in the community. Takeaways: The Balanced Child Method focuses on yoga and mindfulness for children. Amy Jo Hamilton's journey began with a passion for yoga and a desire to help kids. Workshops for teachers count as continuing education, enhancing their professional development. The initiative aims to empower caregivers and teachers to create a balanced environment. Connect with Amy Jo Hamilton: The Balanced Child Method Website Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 (419) 376-1309 Instagram Facebook Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this conversation, Kim and Tracey discuss the journey of building Lighthouse Co., a company dedicated to helping busy families declutter and organize their homes. They explore the emotional aspects of decluttering, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for clients. Tracey shares her personal experiences, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the significance of having a dedicated team. The conversation also touches on the importance of setting boundaries, embracing failure, and the journey of personal growth. They conclude with practical tips for decluttering and an invitation to an upcoming event aimed at helping busy moms thrive in 2026.   Takeaways: Decluttering is an emotional process that varies for each individual. The journey of decluttering is ongoing and requires constant management. Living lighter means owning your time and responsibilities. Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining balance in life. Connect with Tracey:  Lighthouse Co Instagram Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode, Kim Mills sits down with Cody and Gracyn, the founders of Epic & Co., to explore the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship in custom home building. From leaving stable careers to risking everything on their first projects, they share the challenges of starting and scaling a business while balancing family, teamwork, and personal ambition. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to launch a custom home construction and design business, including navigating partnerships, managing client expectations, and turning fear into action. Packed with insights on entrepreneurship, business growth, and the realities of building a brand from the ground up, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring builders, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about what it really takes to succeed in a competitive industry. Takeaways: Learn how Cody and Gracyn turned fear and financial risk into a thriving custom home business through bold entrepreneurship and smart decision-making. Discover the behind-the-scenes challenges of balancing partnership, family, and business while scaling a design-build company. Understand the importance of client experience, transparency, and systems in building a reputable, successful brand from the ground up. Connect with Cody and Gracyn: Epic & Co Instagram  Epic & Co Website Timm + Co Website  Epic & Co Facebook Timm + Co Facebook  Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website  

Lighting has the power to completely transform how your home looks, feels, and even how well it sells. In this episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim breaks down why lighting is one of the most overlooked but impactful design details and how you can use it to create a warmer, more inviting home without spending a fortune. From layering light with lamps and dimmers, choosing the right bulbs, maximizing natural light, and avoiding common lighting mistakes, to simple lighting tips that help homes show better and sell faster, this episode is packed with practical advice for homeowners, sellers, and anyone who wants to enjoy their space more. Whether you're preparing your house for the market or just want to elevate your everyday living, these lighting tips will change the way you see your home. Takeaways: Layering your lighting with dimmers, lamps, and overhead fixtures instantly makes any room feel warmer, more inviting, and more functional. Choosing consistent, warm-toned light bulbs throughout your home creates a cohesive feel and avoids the harsh, cold lighting buyers notice immediately. Maximizing natural light by opening blinds, adjusting window treatments, and reducing heavy drapery can dramatically improve how a home feels and shows. Thoughtful lighting upgrades like under-cabinet lighting, accent lights, and lamps can elevate your space without a major renovation or big budget. Turning on all lights and setting the right ambiance before a showing helps buyers emotionally connect to your home the moment they walk in. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode of The Key, Kim Mills talks with interior designer and founder of MBC Design, Molly Blaine Cochran, about career pivots, entrepreneurship, and building a business when life forces your hand. Molly shares her path from a 12-year career in retail to being laid off while 32 weeks pregnant—and how that moment accelerated her journey into starting her own interior design business. Kim and Molly discuss the overwhelm and underwhelm that come with major transitions, especially for women balancing ambition, motherhood, and identity. The conversation also explores Molly's design philosophy, from rejecting trends in favor of timeless spaces to the importance of budgeting, lighting, and strong vendor relationships. This episode offers an honest look at what it takes to build a serious creative business and how trusting yourself can lead to work that truly fulfills you. Takeaways: Being forced into a pivot can push you toward the path you were already meant to take. A business built out of necessity requires clarity, resilience, and commitment. Timeless design starts with smart budgeting and decisions made early. Strong vendor relationships and loyalty are critical to long-term success. Feeling underwhelmed for too long is often a signal that change is needed. Connect with Molly Blain Cochran: Website Instagram Contact Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this podcast episode, Kim Mills and Holly Haynes discuss the multifaceted nature of productivity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing personal seasons, the power of follow-ups, and the necessity of implementing efficient systems to combat burnout. Holly shares insights on simplifying quarterly planning, overcoming business hurdles, and navigating doubts and perfectionism. The discussion also highlights the significance of small actions in creating momentum and the role of automation in enhancing workflow efficiency. Ultimately, they both encourage listeners to embrace their unique journeys and to approach productivity with a mindset of flexibility and self-compassion.   Takeaways: Quarterly planning can be simplified to reduce stress. Overcoming hurdles requires confidence and follow-through. Small, consistent actions can create momentum. Embrace the journey and allow for flexibility in goals. Connect with Holly Haynes: Website: https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/ The Crush The Rush Podcast: https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehollymariehaynes/?hl=en Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kimmillsgroup/  Website: http://www.sellwithmills.com/

As 2025 comes to a close, Kim Mills invites listeners into a powerful reflection on how to approach 2026 with intention rather than overwhelm. In this solo episode of The Key, Kim challenges the cultural pressure to add more goals, habits, and commitments, and instead makes a compelling case for editing—editing schedules, expectations, pressure, and the stories we tell ourselves about success. Through personal stories, including how creating white space led her to coach high school swimmers, Kim explores why busyness is no longer a badge of honor and how saying no can create deeper presence, fulfillment, and impact. This episode is a grounding reminder that less can actually lead to more meaning, clarity, and joy in the year ahead. Takeaways: Adding more goals and commitments does not guarantee happiness, but editing your life can create space for what truly matters. Saying no is not about doing less—it's about making room for opportunities that align with your values and purpose. Quiet, intentional progress is still progress, even when it's not visible or driven by external pressure. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

If the holidays feel heavy this year, you're not alone and nothing is wrong with you. In this heartfelt episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim shares an honest and compassionate reflection on navigating the holiday season when joy feels quieter, grief is present, and traditions no longer look the way they used to. Kim offers three grounding, practical ways to move through the season with more ease: shrinking the definition of joy, choosing generosity even in sadness, and releasing the pressure to perform or recreate traditions that no longer fit. This episode is a gentle reminder that joy doesn't have to be loud to be meaningful and that kindness, especially toward yourself, can be the most powerful choice of all during the holidays. Takeaways: The holidays can bring grief, change, and pressure, and it's okay to feel joy and sadness at the same time. Giving to others, even in simple ways, can shift your mindset during heavy seasons. Releasing the pressure to perform or maintain outdated traditions creates space for new meaning. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim shares personal insights on handling disappointment and failure, drawing from her own experiences in sports and real estate. She discusses the importance of processing emotions, finding growth in the middle ground, and maintaining an abundant mindset. Kim offers advice on how to navigate setbacks and encourages listeners to focus on daily progress and finding joy in small achievements. Takeaways: Disappointment can be processed in different ways; finding a middle ground is often beneficial. Holding onto future expectations can hinder present progress. An abundant mindset helps in accepting outcomes and looking for new opportunities. Daily progress and small achievements lead to long-term success. Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim sits down with Urban Sundry founder Barbie Coleman to talk about her journey from high-stakes crisis PR to becoming one of German Village's most beloved boutique owners. Barbie shares how she launched her retail brand, signed her shop lease just weeks before the pandemic, and built a store known for its thoughtful curation, connection, and charm. She opens up about the current challenges facing local retailers, from tariffs to online competition and reflects on resilience, community, entrepreneurship, and the grounding role that horses and creativity play in her life and business. Takeaways: Barbie's journey proves that pursuing your dream, even in imperfect timing is still the right timing. Urban Sundry was built on intentional curation, storytelling, and helping people feel truly "seen" through meaningful gifts. The biggest challenges facing small retailers today aren't trends, they're tariffs, consumer habits, and economic uncertainty. Pivoting careers isn't about confidence; it's about courage, clarity, and a willingness to get uncomfortable. Connect with Barbie: Urban Sundry Instagram Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode, Kim sits down with Travis Samson, founder of Samson: A Men's Emporium, the beloved Short North men's boutique that has become a Columbus staple. Travis shares how he transformed a childhood dream and a Pinterest board into a thriving, design-driven retail space that caught the attention of Google's global Small Business team. From early mistakes and money struggles to creativity, community, and customer experience, this conversation reveals the real behind-the-scenes grit it takes to build a boutique that people love and a neighborhood considers its own. Takeaways: The best businesses are built from genuine passion and a real gap in the community not profit projections. Customer experience and personal connection can differentiate a boutique more than any product. Creative branding and consistent community involvement can organically attract major opportunities, even Google-level visibility. Knowing your strengths (and weaknesses) is essential for hiring, scaling, and sustaining long-term success. Links & Resources: Samson: A Men's Emporium Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kimmillsgroup/  Website: http://www.sellwithmills.com/

In this episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim interviews Kat Brown, the owner of Luxe + Lemons, a meal prep delivery service in Columbus. They discuss the journey of building a business, the importance of branding, customer service, and the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Kat shares her personal story, the inspiration behind her business, and her commitment to providing healthy, restaurant-style meals. The conversation also touches on work-life balance, the impact of COVID-19, and the importance of community and resilience. Takeaways: Branding and customer service are key to business success. Work-life balance is crucial for personal well-being. Community support is vital for business growth. Finding calm in chaos is essential for entrepreneurs. Connect with Kat: Luxe and Lemons  Email: [email protected] Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website

In this episode, Kim Mills sits down with entrepreneur and founder Beth Miller to explore the inspiring story behind her Columbus-based business, Fetch & Gift. Beth shares how she transitioned from a career in law to launching a personalized gifting service rooted in creativity, joy, and meaningful connection. The conversation dives into the pivotal moment that sparked Beth's business idea, the fears she overcame to get started, and the support system that helped her take the leap. Kim and Beth also discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, the grind behind the scenes, and the evolving world of gift-giving in a culture driven by instant gratification. Beth opens up about motherhood, navigating busy seasons, raising athletes, and finding harmony in the juggle of life and work. The episode wraps with practical advice for anyone considering a pivot and a timely reminder that the holidays are approaching — and Fetch & Gift is ready to help. Takeaways: Inspiration can strike in unexpected places, pay attention to the moments that spark joy. You don't need a perfect plan to begin; taking action while scared is part of the process. Support systems matter, lean into the people who believe in you. The holidays are coming quickly, and outsourcing gifting can reduce overwhelm. Connect with Beth Miller: Fetch & Gift Connect with Kim Mills: Instagram Website  

In this episode, Kim Mills delves into the current state of the Columbus real estate market, highlighting key insights for buyers and sellers. She emphasizes the diversity within the market, the rising inventory levels, and the implications of longer days on market. Kim discusses the return of negotiation power to buyers and the importance of strategic pricing in a shifting market. The conversation concludes with a recap of the main points, encouraging listeners to stay informed about local market trends.   Takeaways: Different neighborhoods in Columbus behave differently in the real estate market. Buyers now have more negotiation power compared to previous years. Understanding local market nuances is essential for buyers and sellers. The Columbus market is still leaning towards sellers, but it's evening out. Stay Connected: Instagram Website

In this podcast episode of The Key with Kim Mills, Kim shares her personal journey from Dallas to Columbus, detailing her transition from a D1 athlete and advertising professional to a successful real estate agent. She emphasizes the importance of community, relationships, and making an impact through her work and coaching. Kim reflects on her experiences in real estate, the significance of building connections with clients, and her passion for giving back to the community. The podcast serves as a creative space for sharing insights and fostering deeper relationships. Takeaways: Building community is essential to her work and personal life. Kim believes in making an impact over chasing awards. Columbus's entrepreneurial spirit is a unique aspect of the city. Creating a creative space through the podcast is a priority. Kim aims to share stories that go beyond real estate transactions. Stay Connected: Instagram Website  

Hey there—I'm Kim Mills, and this is The Key, a podcast about the people, places, and stories that make Columbus, Ohio feel like home. I'm a top-ranked realtor here in Columbus, but more than that—I'm endlessly curious about what makes this city tick. I've always believed that the magic of a place isn't just in the restaurants, neighborhoods, or new builds—it's in the people behind them. So every week, I'm bringing you conversations with entrepreneurs, artists, creatives, and community leaders who are shaping Columbus in big and small ways. You'll also hear solo episodes from me—on life, business, mindset, motherhood, and of course, real estate. Think of it as your weekly catch-up with a friend who always has a good rec, asks thoughtful questions, and isn't afraid to get real. If you're someone who loves a good story, cares about your community, or just wants to feel a little more connected to the city you live in—this podcast is for you. New episodes drop every Tuesday, and you can find The Key with Kim Mills wherever you listen to podcasts. Want to connect between episodes? Come hang out with me on Instagram @kimmillsgroup, for all things real estate, community, and more. So grab your coffee—or your walking shoes—and let's unlock something great, together.