Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Strickhausen.
Hi Stephen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved to Tennessee almost 20 years ago, got my real estate license, and started practicing right away. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with all kinds of people, from first time homebuyers to professional athletes and well known celebrities.
About three years ago, I had the opportunity to become the Director of Marketing for a large roofing company here in town. That experience eventually led me to branch out and start my own marketing firm. Today, I work with businesses on everything from website design and development to SEO, custom apps, and building systems that help businesses run and grow more efficiently.
I still actively practice real estate as well, so I get the best of both worlds. I’m able to work directly with people while also helping businesses build their brand, improve their marketing, and grow.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Real estate, like any industry, has its good years and its bad years. It’s also a relatively easy profession to get into, which means I’ve lost business within my own sphere over the years. I’ve actually seen situations where a past client of mine ended up using another past client of mine as their real estate agent. Those situations can sting, especially when it involves close friends or family.
The marketing side of my career has had its highs and lows as well. One of my biggest lows was being let go because of budget cuts. At the time, it was definitely a tough pill to swallow, but looking back, it was one of the best things that could have happened to me. I learned an incredible amount during my time there, gained experience I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else, and ultimately that experience catapulted me into where I am today.
Sometimes the setbacks end up being the things that put you on the right path.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In real estate, I’ve been through two recessions and one major boom, so I’ve pretty much seen it all. My specialty is residential sales, although I’ve also had experience with land and investment properties along the way.
On the marketing side, my specialty is website design, development, and launch. I really enjoy taking an idea from the beginning stages and turning it into something that is functional, professional, and built to grow.
Right now, I’m also working on two software systems for very large companies. Both projects have the potential to be truly life changing, and I’m excited to see where they go.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
It’s hard to predict exactly what the future holds. I use AI every day and am constantly learning new ways to apply it, but I also recognize that some of the tasks and jobs I do today will likely be replaced or transformed by AI over time.
That’s why I believe time is of the essence right now. You can either embrace these tools and learn how to use them effectively, or risk being left behind. Rather than resisting change, I’ve made the decision to fully lean into it.
I’ve invested a great deal of time in understanding AI, integrating it into my work, and preparing for a future where it plays a major role in business and everyday life. I believe those who learn to work alongside AI will have a significant advantage in the years ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cedarhousemarketing.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-strickhausen-a791078/
