Send us Fan Mail When I started the Elegant Maine Living podcast just over a year ago, I thought I was creating a platform to share conversations about Maine, real estate, entrepreneurship, and community. What I didn't anticipate was how much these conversations would teach me. In this special anniversary episode, I reflect on what I've learned from a year of sitting down with entrepreneurs, physicians, artists, investors, nonprofit leaders, designers, business owners, and community builders from across Maine. I share why I started the podcast, what surprised me most, and why hearing people's stories has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional and personal life. Over the past year, I've been struck by the generosity of my guests, their willingness to share not only their successes but also their challenges, uncertainties, and moments of reinvention. Those conversations have reinforced my belief that vulnerability is a form of strength and that some of life's most valuable lessons come from listening. I also reflect on the stories that have stayed with me long after the microphones were turned off—from family business legacies and entrepreneurship to navigating aging parents, building creative businesses, and exploring how the Great Wealth Transfer may impact future generations and women. Along the way, I discuss why I love recording Maine real estate market updates, how podcasting has expanded my appreciation for Maine, and what it means to live in a place defined by quiet sophistication, natural beauty, creativity, and community. Most of all, this episode is a thank you—to my guests for sharing their stories and to you, the listener, for joining me on this journey. In This Episode Why I started the Elegant Maine Living podcastWhat surprised me most during my first year of podcastingThe generosity and vulnerability of my guestsLessons and life hacks I've adopted from conversations with guestsWhy some stories continue to stay with me long after the interviewThe unexpected challenges of creating a podcastMy thoughts on curiosity, listening, and lifelong learningWhy Maine continues to inspire and surprise meWhat I hope to explore in future episodesA Few Reflections from This Year "I thought I was starting a podcast about Maine and real estate, but really I was beginning a year-long education in listening." "Vulnerability is a form of strength." "If what you focus on expands, then spending a year focusing on Maine's beauty, creativity, resilience, and community has deepened my appreciation for this extraordinary place." Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship. Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.
