EP158- Coach James Short w/ Stacie Staud: Building a “Not For Sale” Brokerage Through Culture,

What does it take to build a brokerage where culture comes before growth? Stacie Staud, co-founder of West and Main Homes, shares how she built a people-first real estate business without losing the human touch.

Stacie explains the “agents are our clients” philosophy, why hiring for kindness matters, and how strong mentorship can help both new and experienced agents perform at a higher level. She also reveals how West and Main uses AI to improve efficiency while continuing to invest in human creativity and relationships.

From launching a brokerage after an acquisition to expanding into multiple businesses, Stacie shares lessons on leadership, company culture, entrepreneurship, hiring, mentorship and going all-in when building something of your own.

If you’re a real estate agent, broker, business owner or entrepreneur looking to build a stronger business without sacrificing culture, this episode is packed with practical insights.

Subscribe for more conversations on real estate leadership, business growth, coaching and entrepreneurship.

00:00 Why Culture Comes Before Growth

00:29 Meet Stacie Staud: Building a People-First Brokerage

01:15 The Decision to Launch West and Main Homes

02:09 How Culture Became the Growth Strategy

03:09 Why Agents Should Be Treated Like Gold

04:26 The Mentorship Model That Benefits Everyone

05:51 Behind Stacie’s “Not For Sale” Book