As part of Queensland Small Business Month, the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce was thrilled to host a vibrant lineup of local entrepreneurs—including the dynamic Natalie Gessler.

Natalie, the driving force behind At Real Estate on the Capricorn Coast, brought a candid and heartfelt energy to the room, sharing wisdom from more than 20 years of business ownership across finance, real estate and property development.

One of her standout messages was the importance of backing yourself. From day one, Natalie and her husband Troy went “all in”—choosing to rely entirely on their businesses for income. It was a leap of faith, but one grounded in clear intention, thoughtful planning, and relentless self-belief.

She also spoke about the power of building capacity early. Whether it’s hiring ahead of time, investing in marketing or simply upgrading your wardrobe, being ready for growth is essential. “Dress for the job you want,” she said—literally and figuratively. That mindset helped elevate both her personal presence and business outcomes.

Working with a spouse can be a challenge, but Natalie and Troy have made it work seamlessly by defining their roles and building a foundation of trust. “We never undermine each other,” she shared. “We trust that each of us is doing our job and doing it well.”

But perhaps the most poignant takeaway was her emphasis on energy. Natalie reminded us that clients and staff are influenced by the energy you bring to the table. After years of running on empty, she consciously prioritised her wellbeing, and in doing so, transformed her life and business.

Her final message? While business may feel like a rollercoaster, choose instead to get in the driver’s seat. With clear vision, preparation, and the courage to follow your instincts, you can enjoy the journey—and take others along with you.