Courtney Nilsen

Courtney Nilsen, founder of Carolina Roots Marketing, shares how her journey from UNC journalism and sports marketing eventually led her back home to Lake Norman. Along the way she worked in the NBA, NASCAR, and even ran an online boutique before deciding to start her own agency.

She talks about the struggle many small business owners face—trying to do everything themselves—and how handing off marketing can free them to grow. 

Courtney explains why she chose to focus on real estate and home service clients, the power of networking, and the lessons she’s learned about building trust with the right team members.

She also shares practical tips for creating short, authentic videos, keeping email lists active, and showing up online in ways that really connect. 

It’s a story of finding a niche, serving clients well, and building a business rooted in community.

Carolina Roots Marketing

Special mention:
Women In Networking – Lake Norman

About the Host:

Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a licensed real estate broker and accomplished digital marketing professional.

Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.

When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating, playing pickleball, cycling local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.

Jeff Hamm
Broker: LKNreal
Founder: Epic Journey Media

Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin