Featured Entrepreneur
Tausha Carlson
Marathon Real Estate
What does your business do?
Marathon Real Estate is a full service, boutique residential real estate firm providing "marathon" service to Austin and the surrounding area. Marathon's goal is to make the home buying or selling experience one that is completely satisfying - just like finishing a marathon in record time!
What do you like best about being an entrepreneur?
The freedom. The challenge. Not having a boss. Being able to create whatever I want. Having ownership and doing something I'm passionate about. Being able to mentor other women entrepreneurs.
What was your biggest fear in starting a business?
I asked my mom about this, and she said she did not remember me having any fears. I don't remember having any either! I believed in the company and myself, and was confident it would be successful. I saw opportunity and felt excitement. I was more afraid of staying at a desk job my whole life than starting Marathon Real Estate.
What has been your proudest moment in starting your business?
Probably the Grand Opening of Marathon Real Estate - that was when I knew it was really happening. My mom came in town for it, and I was surrounded by friends, family and clients. There was lots of love in the room that evening! More recently, last weekend I had a wave of ‘proudness' when my business partner and I were painting the storage room - to make a space for a couple of new gals who are joining our team!
What is different about being a women entrepreneur?
Unfortunately, there are less of us, but hopefully the numbers are growing! I can list ten high-power/high-profile male entrepreneurs immediately off the top of my head, but I have to rack my brain for five women. Balance is also a challenge for women. The traditional roles of women exist - we are caretakers -- but we also want to give the company our heart and soul.
What message would you give to other women entrepreneurs?
Be strong and tough. I remember when I was negotiating what was probably my 3rd contract ever. An agent had hurt my feelings, and I called my mom crying. She said, "You're going to have to get thicker skin honey." I still think of this today when my feelings are hurt. Also, celebrate successes! Don't just brush them under the rug - take time to celebrate.
What are your current goals for your business?
Take off 1 day/week, and 6-8 weeks/year. Increase my average sales price. Do 60+ real estate transactions per year (the average realtor does less than seven). Continue to teach seminars to businesses and through the University of Texas. Be really involved with AWE. I'm so excited to be a part of this amazing organization as a Founding Member and serving on the Board of Directors.
Which female entrepreneur has inspired you most?
My mom hands down. My mom was a high school teacher when my parents got divorced. She was forced to do something different because she did not want our lifestyle to have to change. She made numerous sacrifices for us and worked extremely hard. She currently owns 3 businesses. I think the entrepreneurial spirit is in my blood!
What do you like best about Austin Women Entrepreneurs?
The women are genuine, REAL, vulnerable people.
Anything else?
Thanks for this opportunity!
