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After building a successful career in real estate, owning a business and becoming a familiar face across Greater Springfield, Steve Hodgson reached a point where he had nothing left to give.
In this episode of Your Number 1 Business Podcast, Steve joins Antoine Vidal to discuss the hidden cost of constantly saying yes, the warning signs of burnout and the journey that took him from real estate into mental health first aid, wellbeing and advocacy.
Steve’s story is a powerful reminder that business success means very little if it comes at the expense of your health, relationships and sense of self.
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Steve began his real estate career in 2003 and later moved into sales before purchasing a business with his wife, Trace, in 2008. The timing was difficult, with the Global Financial Crisis creating pressure almost immediately.
Over the years, Steve became a real estate principal, sales agent, employer and active community leader. He was always available, always helping and almost always saying yes.
In February 2018, everything stopped. Steve found himself sitting on the couch feeling as though someone had pulled the plug from the wall. He was mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted. It took several years to understand that he had experienced severe burnout.
The warning signs of burnout that business owners often ignore
Why constantly saying yes can mean saying no to yourself
The importance of reviewing business expenses and overheads
How identity can become too closely tied to a career
Why changing brands, homes or jobs may not solve a deeper problem
How Steve moved into mental health first aid and workplace wellbeing
Why asking for help is a sign of strength
How his cancer diagnosis changed his perspective again
The purpose behind his Noise of Life podcast
Why success now means health, family and being present
Real estate is an industry where clients, contracts, buyers and negotiations rarely fit neatly into business hours. Steve explains that agents are expected to remain available while also managing the administration and planning that happens behind the scenes.
For business owners, the pressure is even greater. Steve was leading the company, selling property, supporting staff and contributing heavily to the community. Each responsibility felt important, but together they became unsustainable.
If You Say Yes, What Are You Saying No To?
Steve describes himself as having been a “yes man”. He said yes to sponsorships, events, listings, speaking opportunities and community commitments.
Looking back, he realised that every yes came with a hidden no. A yes to another commitment could mean a no to rest, health or family time.
His advice to overwhelmed business owners is to ask one question before agreeing to something: if I say yes to this, what am I saying no to?
Turning Experience into Purpose
After sharing his burnout story, Steve discovered how many people felt the same way. That response helped guide him into mental health first aid, workplace wellbeing and preventative support.
His work now helps people recognise signs and symptoms earlier, start difficult conversations and connect others with appropriate professional support. He believes people should not wait until they completely hit the wall before seeking help.
Earlier in his career, success meant listings, sales and record prices. Today, Steve sees it differently.
Success is being healthy enough to enjoy life, spending meaningful time with family and building a life that reflects what matters most. He says no one will stand at a funeral and remember the record sale price achieved years earlier.
What matters is the impact you had and whether the people you love still want to spend time with you.
Steve’s Advice for Business Owners
Step out of the noise and reconnect with why you do what you do. Review what you are carrying, what you are committing to and whether your business is still supporting the life you want.
Do not wait for burnout, illness or another major event to force you to stop.
Steve Hodgson is a mental health first aid instructor, wellbeing facilitator, coach and podcast host. After a long career in real estate and business ownership, he now helps individuals and organisations build greater awareness around mental health, burnout prevention and personal wellbeing.
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Hear Steve Hodgson’s full story and discover the business lessons behind the conversation.
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