We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maranda Taylor a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Maranda , appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about your team building process? How did you recruit and train your team and knowing what you know now would you have done anything differently?

When I first started my business, it was just me. I didn’t have any employees from day one; it was a one-woman show. I was juggling everything—client meetings, marketing, finances, and every other task that came my way. It was overwhelming at times, but also incredibly empowering. There was a sense of pride in knowing that I was building something from the ground up with my own two hands.

As the business started to grow, I knew I couldn’t do it all by myself anymore. The need to recruit those first few team members became clear, and I wanted to find people who not only had the skills but also shared my vision and passion for what we were creating.

Recruiting that initial team was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I didn’t have a formal HR department or a detailed recruitment process in place, so I had to rely heavily on intuition and personal connections. I reached out to people within my network, and surprisingly, it felt more like forming a tribe than just hiring employees. These were individuals who believed in the mission of the business and were eager to contribute their unique talents.

The interview process was unconventional, to say the least. I wasn’t just looking for people who could do the job; I was looking for people who felt like a natural extension of the team, people who brought positivity and a can-do attitude to the table. Instead of standard interview questions, I focused more on conversations—getting to know them as people, understanding their motivations, and seeing how they would fit into the culture I was trying to build.

Training was equally hands-on and personal. Since we were a small team, it was less about formal training sessions and more about learning together as we went. There was a lot of trial and error, but that process brought us closer as a team. We were in it together, learning and growing side by side.

If I were starting today, I think I might have done a few things differently. For one, I would have been more strategic about planning for growth and preparing for the need to bring on new team members sooner. I also might have formalized some processes earlier on, especially around recruitment and training, to streamline things as the business expanded.

But looking back, I’m also grateful for the way things unfolded. The unconventional path we took allowed us to build a strong, cohesive team that was truly invested in the success of the business. And in many ways, that personal, hands-on approach laid the foundation for the culture we have today.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hey Y’all, I’m Maranda Taylor, and I wear many hats—realtor, entrepreneur, creative strategist, motivational badass, and mother. My journey into the world of business and real estate has been anything but traditional. I got into real estate because I wanted to help people find their dream homes, and over time, that passion evolved into helping businesses find their place in the market as well. Along the way, I discovered my knack for creative strategy and marketing, which led me to start my consulting firm, Charm and Strategy Consulting.

But that’s not all. I’m also the proud owner of Pop-Up Commons, a third space in Omaha, NE, designed to be a versatile event venue and community hub. Pop-Up Commons is a space where creativity, collaboration, and community come together. Whether it’s hosting small business events, workshops, or celebrations, Pop-Up Commons offers a unique environment that fosters connection and growth.

The transition into creative strategy felt natural. I’ve always had a love for connecting with people and understanding their needs, whether it’s helping someone find the perfect home, assisting a business in reaching its full potential, or providing a welcoming space for the community to come together. My work is all about building connections and creating strategies that resonate with people on a deeper level.

As a motivational badass, which to me means being someone who not only overcomes challenges with grit and determination but also inspires others to do the same, I approach every aspect of my work and life with a fierce, positive energy. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of lifting others up as I climb, motivating those around me to be their best selves.

Through my consulting firm, Charm and Strategy Consulting, I offer a range of services including business consulting, creative design, marketing strategies, and content creation. I help businesses improve their visibility, connect with their target audience, and grow their presence both online and offline.

In my real estate work, I help individuals and families navigate the complexities of buying and selling homes. I’m deeply knowledgeable about the local market, and I pride myself on being an advocate for my clients, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their goals.

Pop-Up Commons, my third business, provides a flexible and creative space for the community. It’s a place where people can come together for a variety of events—whether it’s a business meeting, a creative workshop, or a personal celebration. Pop-Up Commons is all about fostering connections and offering a space where ideas can flourish.

As a motivational badass, I bring a unique energy to every project. I don’t just provide services; I empower my clients and community to believe in their potential and push beyond their limits. I’m here to remind them that they can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams, no matter how big.

What sets me apart is my approach to both business and relationships. I believe in being authentic and true to myself in everything I do. I’m not just about closing deals or ticking off tasks—I’m about building lasting relationships, whether it’s with my clients, my team, or my community.

As a motivational badass, I bring a unique blend of resilience, positivity, and determination to everything I do. I’m someone who’s not afraid to take on challenges, and I inspire those around me to do the same. I help people see the best in themselves and push through their obstacles with confidence and strength.

I’m also highly adaptable. I’ve worked with a diverse range of clients across different industries, from real estate to creative marketing, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. I understand that no two businesses are the same, and I thrive on creating customized strategies that deliver real results.

Pop-Up Commons adds another layer to what sets me apart. It’s not just a venue; it’s a space that embodies the values of creativity, collaboration, and community. It’s a place where people can come together, share ideas, and create something meaningful. This commitment to fostering connections is at the heart of everything I do.

Another thing that sets me apart is my commitment to my community. I’m actively involved in organizing events, supporting local businesses, and contributing to causes that matter to me. I believe that success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about lifting others up along the way.

On a more personal level, I’m driven by the desire to make my children proud. I want them to be able to say, “My mother is Maranda Taylor,” with pride. I’m committed to breaking as many generational curses as I can and inspiring others to do the same. I genuinely believe that my purpose in life is to provide people with the tools they need to cross bridges they didn’t even think they could build in the first place. It’s about more than just business for me—it’s about creating a legacy of strength, resilience, and empowerment, all while reminding everyone that “You were always enough, babe. Always.”

I’m most proud of the impact I’ve been able to make in my community and the relationships I’ve built along the way. Whether it’s helping a family find their dream home, assisting a small business in achieving their goals, or providing a space for people to connect at Pop-Up Commons, seeing the positive outcomes of my work is incredibly rewarding.

I’m also proud of the resilience I’ve shown in my journey. Building a business from the ground up isn’t easy, and there have been plenty of challenges along the way. But as a motivational badass, I’ve learned to embrace those challenges as opportunities for growth, and that mindset has helped me build something I’m truly proud of.

Additionally, I’m proud of the example I’m setting for my children. I want them to see that with hard work, determination, and a commitment to doing good, they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Breaking generational curses and showing them that they are capable of greatness is one of my greatest accomplishments.

I want potential clients and followers to know that when you work with me, you’re getting more than just a service—you’re getting a partner who is genuinely invested in your success. I’m here to listen, to understand your needs, and to create solutions that work for you.

My work is rooted in authenticity, creativity, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. Whether you’re looking for help with your business, buying or selling a home, or just seeking advice, know that I’m here to support you every step of the way.

As the owner of Pop-Up Commons, I also want to highlight the importance of community and connection. Pop-Up Commons is more than just a venue—it’s a space where people can come together, share ideas, and build relationships that matter.

As a motivational badass, I want to remind everyone that they have the power to overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and be their best selves. I’m here to empower, to uplift, and to show you that you are capable of incredible things.

Lastly, I want you to know that you are always enough. In everything I do, I strive to remind people of their worth and potential. Life can be challenging, but with the right support and mindset, there’s nothing we can’t achieve together. Remember, “You were always enough, babe. Always.”

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my audience on social media began when I was working as a realtor with Kelly Realty. My approach was rooted in making meaningful choices that truly helped my community. It started on a very local, individual level—talking to people in my community and helping them one-on-one with whatever they needed, whether it was related to real estate or not. Sometimes, it was as simple as taking the time to assist with mundane tasks, like running errands or offering advice on home projects. By being there for people in small, genuine ways, I started building trust and connections that extended beyond just business.

As I transitioned into starting my own company, I carried those same values with me. I also made some specific branding choices that resonated with me and my audience. For example, I chose to only wear green because green has always made me feel powerful and confident. It became a signature part of my brand, something that people could instantly recognize and associate with me.

Through it all, I used various strategies to help me be seen, but I never strayed from staying true to my values. Whether it was in my work as a realtor or through my consulting firm and Pop-Up Commons, I made sure that everything I did reflected who I am and what I stand for. I shared stories that mattered to me, engaged with my community authentically, and focused on building relationships rather than just a following.

For anyone just starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to stay true to who you are and to your values. Building an audience isn’t just about numbers; it’s about creating connections that matter. Start by being present in your community, helping people in ways big and small, and being consistent in your messaging. Your authenticity is what will set you apart.

Consistency is also crucial. Whether you’re posting daily, weekly, or a few times a month, make sure you’re showing up regularly. It’s not just about posting content; it’s about being there for your audience, engaging with them, and staying active in a way that keeps you on their radar.

And don’t forget to incorporate branding elements that make you feel powerful and aligned with your identity. Whether it’s a color, a phrase, or a specific style, these elements can help make your presence more recognizable and memorable.

Remember, building an audience takes time, but if you focus on being true to yourself and helping others, that audience will grow, and your impact will be felt. And always remember—“You were always enough, babe. Always.” Your authenticity and dedication to your community are your greatest strengths.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and keeping morale high is all about creating a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered. I’ve learned that it starts with leading by example—showing up with the kind of energy, dedication, and positivity that you want to see in your team. When your team sees you putting in the work and staying motivated, it inspires them to do the same.

Open communication is key. I make it a point to check in with my team regularly, whether it’s through one-on-one conversations or team meetings. I want everyone to feel like their voice matters and that they can come to me with anything—ideas, concerns, or just a need to vent. Keeping those lines of communication open helps us stay connected and tackle any issues before they become bigger problems.

I’m also big on empowering my team. I trust them to do their jobs well and give them the autonomy to make decisions. I believe that when people feel like they have ownership over their work, they’re more engaged and motivated. Of course, I’m always there to provide guidance when needed, but I want my team to feel confident in their abilities and know that I’ve got their back.

Celebrating wins, no matter how big or small, is something I prioritize. Whether we’ve hit a major milestone or someone just nailed a task, I make sure to acknowledge and celebrate those achievements. It’s important for my team to know that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.

I also believe in investing in my team’s growth. I’m all about providing opportunities for learning and development because when my team grows, we all succeed. Whether it’s through training, workshops, or mentorship, I want to make sure my team has the tools they need to thrive.

Creating a supportive environment is non-negotiable for me. Life can be tough, and I want my team to know that I’m here for them—not just as their leader, but as someone who genuinely cares about their well-being. Whether it’s work-life balance, mental health, or personal challenges, I’m committed to supporting my team in any way I can.

Transparency is another big one. I believe in being honest and upfront about the challenges we face. When my team knows what’s going on, they’re more likely to stay committed, even when things get tough.

And let’s not forget about the importance of team bonding. I love organizing activities that bring us closer together, whether it’s a team-building event or just a casual hangout. When we feel connected as a team, it makes the work we do together that much more meaningful.

At the end of the day, it’s about being a leader who listens, adapts, and genuinely cares. Keeping morale high isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s something I work on every day. And honestly, when you invest in your team’s well-being, the results speak for themselves.

Remember, you and your team are capable of incredible things. And as always, “You were always enough, babe. Always.” That goes for everyone on the team too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/wefoundhome
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popupcommonsomaha/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MandaisthePanda/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marandataylor/
• Other: My tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marandataylorrealtor

Image Credits

Cloud Cover Photography, Wai Chan