Queer and Successful

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Summary

In this conversation, Hunter J McNair interviews Kristen Glasheen, a successful real estate business owner, about her journey and overcoming childhood trauma. Kristen shares her aspirations to be a veterinarian and her drive for success. She discusses her difficult upbringing, witnessing domestic violence, and living in challenging conditions. Kristen talks about escaping an abusive relationship and the tragic loss of her fiancé and brother. She reflects on the turning point in her life and the decision to change her path. Kristen emphasizes the importance of surrounding herself with supportive people during her healing process. In this conversation, Kristen Glasheen reflects on her journey from a traumatic childhood to finding stability and happiness in her 30s. She discusses the turning point in her 20s when she started therapy and underwent EMDR therapy to heal from past trauma. Kristen also shares how meeting her husband and building a positive mindset contributed to her personal growth. She talks about her decision to quit her job and pursue a degree in radiologic technology, which led to a move to Tucson. The conversation ends with Kristen discussing the importance of seeking help and building a support system.

Takeaways

• Kristen aspired to be a veterinarian and had a strong drive for success from a young age.
• She experienced a difficult childhood, witnessing domestic violence and living in challenging conditions.
• Kristen escaped an abusive relationship and faced the tragic loss of her fiancé and brother.
• The turning point in her life led her to prioritize self-respect and make positive changes.
• Surrounding herself with supportive people played a crucial role in her healing process. Seeking therapy and undergoing EMDR therapy can be transformative in healing from past trauma.
• Building a positive mindset and surrounding oneself with supportive people can contribute to personal growth and happiness.
• Making bold decisions, such as quitting a job and pursuing further education, can lead to new opportunities and personal fulfillment.
• Having a support system and seeking help from others is crucial in navigating difficult times and overcoming challenges.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Kristen's Instagrams
  @kristensellstucson

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This week Tyson Buening (he/they) shares their journey of transitioning from teaching to working with his spouse in real estate. He discusses the challenges and benefits of working with a spouse, setting clear boundaries, and finding the right systems that work for both partners. Tyson also highlights the importance of clarity and finding people's strengths when building a team. He shares his aspirations of becoming an admin coach and helping other teams hire and grow. Throughout the conversation, Tyson emphasizes the power of trust, grace, and dreaming big. Tyson shares their experience working as the Director of Operations for a real estate team and the challenges and successes they have encountered. They emphasize the importance of finding balance and complementing each other's strengths when working with a spouse. Tyson also discusses the process of hiring and the importance of having confidence in yourself and your ability to help others succeed. They share their journey of self-discovery and finding their voice in their role. Tyson defines success as making an impact and creating change through being your authentic self.

Takeaways

• Working with a spouse requires setting clear boundaries and finding the right systems that work for both partners.
• Building a team involves identifying people's strengths and lifting them up.
• Clarity and intentionality are key when bringing people into your business.
• Trust, grace, and dreaming big are essential for success in working with a spouse.
• Transitioning from teaching to real estate can open up new opportunities and paths for personal and professional growth. Finding balance and complementing each other's strengths is crucial when working with a spouse.
• Having confidence in yourself and your ability to help others succeed is important when making hiring decisions.
• Success is defined by making an impact and creating change through being your authentic self.
• It is important to challenge the role you are in and leverage tasks off your plate to focus on your unique abilities.
• Believe in yourself and love yourself, and be a friend to yourself and others.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Tyson's Instagrams
  @tgenebuen
  @thebueninggroup

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

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This week Tyson Buening (he/they) shares their journey of self-discovery and coming out, as well as coming out to themselves. We discuss their supportive family, the challenges faced in youth, and the impact of personal struggles with mental health. Tyson also talks about their college experience and career choices. In this conversation, Tyson shares their journey from teaching to real estate and their experiences as a queer person. They discuss the importance of coaching and teaching in their current work, the challenges of career uncertainty, and the support they received from family and friends. Tyson also talks about their love life, including meeting their partner Cam, and navigating the gay community. They open up about their gender journey and the challenges and importance of being authentic. Tyson emphasizes the power of voice and offers advice to their younger self. They highlight the significance of acceptance and visibility in creating a better world.

Takeaways

• Coming out is a personal journey that can be influenced by various factors, including family support and personal struggles.
• Supportive and accepting family members can play a crucial role in an individual's coming out process.
• Personal struggles, such as mental health issues, can impact the decision to come out and the overall well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
• College and career choices can be influenced by personal experiences and aspirations, and it's important to pursue paths that align with one's passions and values. Coaching and teaching can be fulfilling and impactful in various fields.
• Career uncertainty is common, and it's important to pursue what makes you happy.
• Support from family and friends is crucial in navigating personal and professional challenges.
• Love and relationships can be unique and diverse, and acceptance is key.
• Gender identity is a personal journey, and it's important to embrace authenticity.
• Everyone's voice matters, and it's important to speak up and be heard.
• Acceptance and visibility are powerful tools in creating a safer and more inclusive world.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Tyson's Instagrams
  @tgenebuen
  @thebueninggroup

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

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Melissa Martin shares her journey of overcoming tragedy and building a successful real estate business. After the tragic loss of her dogs, Melissa found the strength to start her own business and honor her dogs' memory. She faced challenges such as imposter syndrome and building systems, but with determination and a strong mindset, she found success. Melissa's story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to start a business and overcome obstacles. In this conversation, Melissa Martin and Hunter J McNair discuss the challenges and benefits of hiring and building a team, particularly when it involves family members. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and clear expectations when working with family. Melissa shares her experience of hiring her daughter and the trust and commitment required in such a relationship. They also discuss the significance of finding the right people to surround yourself with and the impact of authenticity in building relationships. Melissa's journey of turning trauma into success serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs.

Melissa is the owner and founder of Harpo Properties, a Real Estate team powered by Keller Williams in Wilmington, NC. Melissa was born and raised in Wilmington, NC.  After the tragedy of losing Harpo and his two fur sisters in 2019, Melissa decided to With every home sold, she saves a dog in a shelter with our Get a home Give a home sponsorship program. Melissa was recently recognized as a top 100 agent by Cape Fear Real Producers and received the honor of being featured for the agent who gives back in the community. 

Takeaways

• Tragedy can be a catalyst for change and growth
• Having a strong mindset and finding mentors is crucial for success
• Building systems and finding your passion are key to building a successful business
• Being true to yourself and embracing your identity can attract clients and allies When hiring, consider looking within your existing network for talented individuals who are committed to your vision.
• Clear expectations and boundaries are crucial when working with family members.
• Surround yourself with people who share your vision and can help you grow.
• Authenticity is key in building relationships and gaining trust.
• Difficult experiences can lead to personal growth and success if approached with resilience and a positive mindset.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Melissa's Instagram
  @mydogheals & @harpoproperties

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

Send us Fan Mail

Melissa is the owner and founder of Harpo Properties, a Real Estate team powered by Keller Williams in Wilmington, NC. Melissa was born and raised in Wilmington, NC.  After the tragedy of losing Harpo and his two fur sisters in 2019, Melissa decided to With every home sold, she saves a dog in a shelter with our Get a home Give a home sponsorship program. Melissa was recently recognized as a top 100 agent by Cape Fear Real Producers and received the honor of being featured for the agent who gives back in the community. 

In this episode Melissa shares her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful real estate agent and network marketer. She discusses her struggles with her identity and coming out as a lesbian, as well as her financial hardships and how she built a thriving business. Melissa's story is one of resilience, determination, and finding love and success on her own terms. In this conversation, Melissa Martin shares her experience of coming out and hiding her relationship for 10 years. She discusses the challenges she faced and the impact it had on her and her family. Melissa also talks about getting her dog Harpo and how he became a source of comfort and purpose in her life. Finally, she reflects on her past and offers advice to others who may be in similar situations.

Takeaways

• Overcoming a difficult childhood and challenging circumstances can lead to personal growth and success.
• Building a successful career in real estate requires hard work, dedication, and a passion for helping others.
• Coming out and embracing one's true identity can be a transformative and empowering experience.
• Financial struggles can be overcome through perseverance, finding new opportunities, and building residual income streams. Coming out can be a difficult and scary process, especially when hiding a relationship for a long time.
• Having a support system, such as understanding children and an amicable ex-partner, can make the coming out process easier.
• Pets can provide companionship and purpose, helping individuals navigate challenging times.
• It's important to pursue your passions and not let your past define your future.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Melissa's Instagram
  @mydogheals & @harpoproperties

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

Send us Fan Mail

SJ Janjua (they/them) is the founder and consultant of Empowered for Equity Consulting, where they use their passion and expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to help equip others with the tools to create inclusive spaces in schools and workplaces. SJ is a proud queer/transgender/non-binary/biracial person who uses their lived experience to guide their consulting work. 

In this conversation, SJ Janjua discusses their journey in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work and the challenges they face as a business owner. They talk about starting their own business, Empowered for Equity, and the hurdles they encountered, including self-doubt and fear. SJ also shares their experiences in DEI work, including the resistance they sometimes face from clients and the emotional toll it can take. They emphasize the importance of community and mentorship in navigating these challenges. The conversation highlights the ongoing need for DEI work and the obstacles that exist in creating inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals. In this conversation, SJ discusses their experience in facilitating workshops and the challenges they face, particularly with white cisgender men. They also touch on the importance of intersectionality and recognizing the contributions of the trans community. The lack of knowledge within the LGBTQ+ community is highlighted, emphasizing the need for education and awareness. The conversation delves into the topics of cultural erasure and colonization, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration. SJ defines success as the impact they can make and the positive change they can inspire. They stress the importance of how participants feel at the end of a workshop, focusing on empowerment and preparedness. Taking action and empowering others is seen as a key aspect of success. The conversation concludes with advice for queer individuals wanting to start a business, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step and surrounding oneself with supportive people.

Takeaways

• Starting a business in DEI work can be challenging, but seeking support from mentors and communities can help overcome self-doubt and fear.
• DEI work is important and necessary, but it can also be emotionally taxing. It is crucial to find ways to take care of oneself and prevent burnout.
• Expanding into different sectors and creating digital products can help reach a wider audience and make DEI work more accessible.
• Inclusive environments are essential for LGBTQ+ individuals, but there can be resistance and fear from clients and organizations. It is important to educate and create safe spaces for conversations.
• Challenges and obstacles in DEI work, such as anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and cancelations, highlight the ongoing need for advocacy and education. Facilitating workshops can be challenging, especially when dealing with white cisgender men.
• Intersectionality is important, and the contributions of the trans community should be recognized.
• There is a lack of knowledge within the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the need for education and awareness.
• Cultural erasure and colonization are ongoing issues that need to be addressed.
• Unity and collaboration are essential in creating positive change.
• Success should be defined by the impact one can make.
• The feelings of participants in workshops are important, and empowerment and preparedness should be prioritized.
• Taking action and empowering others is crucial for success.
• Overcoming doubt and affirming one's own success is important.
• Starting a business requires taking the first step and surrounding oneself with supportive people.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• SJ's Instagram
  @empoweredforequity

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SJ Janjua (they/them) is the founder and consultant of Empowered for Equity Consulting, where they use their passion and expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to help equip others with the tools to create inclusive spaces in schools and workplaces. SJ is a proud queer/transgender/non-binary/biracial person who uses their lived experience to guide their consulting work. They spent 5 years teaching high school level English in the US and abroad at the start of their career, and eventually left the classroom in pursuit of a master's degree. They obtained their degree in International Education and served as a classroom evaluator, curriculum developer, and a teacher trainer in the years following. During their work at a non-profit afterschool program, they began their formalized Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging work in the education space. They specialize in providing workshops, trainings, and strategic planning support to schools and organizations on creating LGBTQ+ inclusion, creating and fostering spaces for belonging, integrating restorative practices, and empowering folks to go beyond performative allyship.

This week SJ shares their journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with their identity as a transgender, queer, non-binary individual. Growing up in conservative areas and lacking representation, SJ faced challenges in understanding and accepting their true self. They discuss their career aspirations and the fear of starting a business, as well as their experiences in college and coming out to friends and family. The conversation explores the challenges and experiences of coming out, cutting off family, and embracing authenticity. It highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment and finding acceptance within oneself.

Takeaways

• Growing up in conservative areas can delay the process of self-discovery and coming out.
• Lack of representation and role models can make it difficult for individuals to understand and accept their true identity.
• Fear and lack of knowledge about entrepreneurship can prevent individuals from pursuing their passion and starting their own business.
• Coming out to friends and family can be a challenging and ongoing process, but having a supportive network can make a significant difference. Coming out to parents can be a challenging and unpredictable experience, as their reactions may not align with expectations.
• Cutting off family members who are unsupportive or harmful can be a difficult but necessary step for personal growth and well-being.
• Creating a supportive environment with accepting friends and community can greatly contribute to one's self-acceptance and happiness.
• Embracing authenticity and being true to oneself is a powerful and liberating experience that can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• SJ's Instagram
  @empoweredforequity

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

Send us Fan Mail

Donate to the LGBT Housing Initiative here: https://lgbthousinginitiative.com/donate

Mike Zinicola is the owner of The EZ Referral Network, which is a Top 10 expansion team in Keller Williams. Last year they were ranked the 28th largest Team of all brokerages in Units. He has been named the Number One LGBTQ+ Real Estate team owner in the country. Last year he was given the Beacon of Light Award from the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance for his work founding the LGBT Housing Initiative, an organization that funds other organizations that uplift and elevate homeless LGBT youth off the streets.

In this episode, Hunter J. McNair interviews Mike Zinicola, the number one LGBTQ+ real estate agent and founder of the LGBT housing initiative. Mike shares his journey in the real estate industry, starting from his first year record-breaking success to building a successful team. He emphasizes the importance of building trust with clients and the value of a unique value proposition. Mike also discusses the need to simplify the industry and the importance of working with competitors. He shares insights on forming partnerships and the importance of servant leadership. Mike's story highlights the power of disruption and the journey of entrepreneurship. In this conversation, Michael Zinicola shares insights on value, growth, and leadership in the real estate industry. He emphasizes the importance of showing value to clients and team members, and the need to adapt and evolve in a changing market. Michael also discusses his unwavering mission and vision, and the role of servant leadership in his team. He highlights the LGBT Housing Initiative as a way to give back to the community and make a positive impact. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of caring for people and building lasting relationships in business.

Takeaways

• Building trust is crucial in the real estate industry.
• Having a unique value proposition sets you apart from competitors.
• Simplifying the industry can lead to success.
• Forming partnerships and working with competitors can be beneficial.
• The journey is often more interesting than the destination. Continuously show value to clients and team members to maintain growth and success.
• Have a clear and unwavering mission and vision that guides your business decisions.
• Adapt and evolve in response to changes in the industry and market.
• Practice servant leadership and focus on building better realtors.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Mikes' Instagrams
  @theezsalesteam

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

Send us Fan Mail

Mike Zinicola is the owner of The EZ Referral Network, which is a Top 10 expansion team in Keller Williams. Last year they were ranked the 28th largest Team of all brokerages in Units. He has been named the Number One LGBTQ+ Real Estate team owner in the country. Last year he was given the Beacon of Light Award from the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance for his work founding the LGBT Housing Initiative, an organization that funds other organizations that uplift and elevate homeless LGBT youth off the streets.

Mike Zinicola shares his journey from practicing law to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur. He discusses his upbringing in a traditional Italian family and the challenges he faced growing up gay in a time with limited access to information and acceptance. Michael also talks about his political aspirations and how his career path changed after coming out. He reflects on his law school experience and the decision to pursue a different path.

Takeaways

• Growing up in a supportive and loving family can outweigh financial struggles.
• The pressure to be perfect can be a significant source of stress.
• Political aspirations can change as one's personal journey unfolds.
• Coming out can lead to unexpected career changes and new opportunities.
• Law school can provide valuable skills and experiences, even if it doesn't lead to a traditional legal career.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Mikes' Instagrams
  @theezsalesteam

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful

Send us Fan Mail

Summary

In this conversation, Nicholas Landis shares his real estate journey, starting with flipping houses and transitioning to new construction. He discusses the challenges of DIY flipping and the role of debt in real estate investing. Nicholas emphasizes the benefits of live-in flips and offers advice for getting started. He also shares lessons learned from his first flip and the importance of setting aside profits. Nicholas discusses the current market conditions and the shift in investor strategies. He shares his experience with a lucrative new construction deal and the challenges he faced in the market. Finally, Nicholas talks about his future plans and the importance of pivoting in the face of challenges. In this conversation, Nicholas Landis shares his experiences and lessons learned as a real estate investor and business owner. The conversation covers topics such as surviving to thrive, learning from others' experiences, detaching self-worth from projects, diversifying income streams, focusing on the plan rather than the problem, affirmations and self-worth, working smarter not harder, dividing yourself from problems, finding a personal spiritual practice, and taking care of yourself.

Takeaways

• Flipping houses can be a roller coaster ride, with both breakdowns and breakthroughs.
• Starting with live-in flips can be a cost-effective way to gain experience and build equity.
• Debt can be a useful tool in real estate investing, as long as it is managed responsibly.
• It's important to set aside profits from successful deals for future investments and financial stability.
• Adapting to market conditions and being open to new opportunities is crucial for long-term success in real estate. Surviving to thrive is a mindset that business owners should adopt, understanding that there will be good years and bad years.
• Learning from the experiences of others, especially those who have faced significant challenges, can provide valuable insights and perspective.
• Detaching self-worth from projects and outcomes is crucial for maintaining resilience and mental well-being.
• Diversifying income streams can provide stability and opportunities for growth, especially during challenging times.
• Focusing on the plan rather than getting overwhelmed by problems allows for creative solutions and forward progress.
• Affirmations and positive self-talk can help maintain a positive mindset and overcome imposter syndrome.
• Working smarter, not harder, involves finding ways to delegate and streamline tasks to maximize efficiency.
• Dividing yourself from problems and maintaining a sense of self-worth separate from external circumstances is essential for personal growth.
• Finding a personal spiritual practice, whether religious or not, can help fill oneself and provide inner strength.
• Taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally is crucial for overall well-being and success.

Connect on Socials:

• Podcast Instagram/TikTok
  @QueerAndSuccessful
• Hunter's Instagram
  @HuntHousesNC
• Nicholas' Instagrams
  @tychepropertygroup

Check out our Linktree to apply to be on the show, join the community, and more!
https://linktr.ee/queerandsuccessful