Michael Fassnacht has built a career on taking risks, thinking ahead, and, above all, showing up. As the Chief Growth Officer and President of Chicagoland at Clayco, one of the largest design-build firms in the country, he has a front-row seat to the future of real estate and economic development. But his path to this leadership role was not a straight shot. It was shaped by international experiences, deep civic involvement, and a willingness to step into the unknown.

Growing up in Germany, Michael’s early years were defined by curiosity and ambition. After spending time in Africa as a missionary, he returned to Europe to begin his professional career with Lufthansa. The corporate world introduced him to high-stakes decision-making, but it also reinforced a critical lesson. Success is not just about talent. It is about showing up and putting yourself in the right rooms.

His move to the United States was driven by something deeply personal, his wife. With their future together in mind, he left Frankfurt and started fresh in San Francisco. There, he launched one of the first SaaS companies in the marketing tech space, an endeavor that proved both challenging and rewarding. Five years later, after successfully selling the company, another opportunity knocked. This time in Chicago.

Stepping into a leadership role at one of the world's most renowned advertising firms, Foote, Cone & Belding, Michael quickly became a key figure in Chicago’s business landscape. His civic engagement grew as well, leading him to serve on various boards, including the Chicago Public Library Board and the Civic Consulting Alliance. These roles eventually led to a pivotal call. Mayor Rahm Emanuel asked him to help pitch Chicago for Amazon’s HQ2.

That bid, while unsuccessful, ignited something in him. The process of selling Chicago to the world opened his eyes to the broader impact of economic development. It was not just about business. It was about shaping a city, creating opportunities, and building a legacy that outlived a single project. That realization led to his time as Chief Marketing Officer for the City of Chicago and later as CEO of World Business Chicago, where he played a crucial role in driving investment and innovation.

Now at Clayco, Michael is bringing his global perspective to real estate development. With projects that span manufacturing, data centers, and life sciences, the firm is quite literally building the future. But beyond the numbers and high-profile deals, his approach remains deeply personal. Mentorship, leadership, and the philosophy of showing up.

“The most important advice I give young people nowadays is show up,” he says. “Leave your bedroom, leave your house, leave your apartment. You have to go to meetings, you have to go to events. You have to meet people face to face. You have to show up with your work, with your writing, with your thinking, with your voice.”

This mindset is not just advice. It is how Michael has built his career. Whether in boardrooms, on construction sites, or in civic leadership meetings, he understands that no amount of preparation can replace the value of being present. It is a lesson that applies across industries, from aspiring entrepreneurs to corporate executives looking to make an impact.

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Michael emphasizes one more thing. Maintaining emotional independence from work. “You cannot give power over your emotional well-being to the corporation you're working for,” he says. Dedication is important, but so is the ability to step back, reflect, and ensure that success does not come at the cost of personal fulfillment.

Through all his ventures, from pitching billion-dollar investments to shaping the next generation of leaders, Michael Fassnacht remains a student of life. Always learning, always building, and always showing up.

Mark Santoyo knows that real estate isn’t just about houses—it’s about people. Long before he became a top producer, he understood one fundamental truth: when you take care of people, they take care of you. That mindset has carried him through a thriving career, proving that success isn’t about flashy sales tactics but about genuine connections and long-term trust.

There’s a reason why some realtors last for decades while others fade out quickly. Mark has seen it firsthand. “When you love sales, you just know it,” he says. “But it’s not rocket science. Just treat people well. Treat them like family.” It’s a simple philosophy, but one that too many professionals overlook. In an industry that can feel transactional, Mark has built a business by making his clients feel like they’re more than just another deal.

For Mark, honesty is everything. He doesn’t sugarcoat the realities of buying or selling a home. He tells his clients the truth—even when it’s not what they want to hear. “People appreciate honesty,” he explains. “They don’t want the runaround. They want to know that you’ve been there too.” Real estate isn’t always easy, and he makes sure his clients feel prepared for the process.

Success in real estate isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about creating lifelong relationships. Mark doesn’t just help someone buy a home and move on—he stays connected. His clients come back, refer their friends, and trust him with their biggest financial decisions. That kind of loyalty doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people know they can count on him, year after year.

A major shift in Mark’s career happened when he started treating his business like a long-term investment instead of chasing quick wins. He realized that consistency was the secret weapon of top producers. It’s not about doing something great once—it’s about doing it every single day, whether or not there’s an immediate payoff.

That’s why Mark believes so strongly in the power of personal branding. “People need to see you. They need to know what you stand for.” He built his reputation not just through his results but through his presence—online and offline. By showing up consistently, he became the go-to person in his market.

Many agents make the mistake of overcomplicating things, but Mark keeps it simple. “Just be real,” he says. “Listen to people. Understand what they need. Solve their problems.” It’s a reminder that while the industry evolves, the core of real estate will always be about trust, relationships, and delivering results.

For anyone looking to build a career in real estate—or any industry—Mark’s advice is clear: “Stick with it. Don’t give up just because things don’t happen overnight. The people who succeed are the ones who show up every day and put in the work.”

Whether you’re a new agent or a seasoned professional, there’s one takeaway that stands out: Treat people like family, and you’ll never have to chase business. It will always come back to you.

Steve Kohn didn’t have a traditional start in real estate. What began as a long summer waiting for his first opportunity evolved into a decade-long journey across industries, honing his skills and learning to navigate the complexities of sales. It wasn’t until a chance encounter at a hockey game that Steve’s career in industrial real estate took off, thanks to his magnetic personality and relentless determination.

Steve’s success isn’t just a story of persistence, it’s a blueprint for anyone looking to excel in a competitive field. His first lessons in real estate weren’t learned in boardrooms or classrooms but in gas stations and on the streets of Franklin Park. "I wanted to learn everything," Steve said. “I asked truck drivers where they were headed and what they were carrying.” It was this hands-on approach, combined with a refusal to shy away from the unknown, that set him apart early on.

For Steve, relationships are the cornerstone of his career. Whether it’s hockey teammates or business contacts, he’s found that genuine connections build trust. "People see your character through how you play sports, handle challenges, and treat others," he explained. This authenticity has been a key factor in securing deals and maintaining long-term partnerships.

Steve credits much of his growth to his mentors. From the quiet guidance of his parents to the impactful lessons of industry leaders like David Kahnweiler, these relationships shaped his approach to success. "If you’re not uncomfortable asking for things on behalf of your clients, you’re not doing the job," Steve recalled from one mentor. Another piece of advice that stuck with him came from Lou Kahnweiler: "When you’re representing a building, start with the ones around it."

As someone who thrives on innovation, Steve sees social media as the new frontier for young brokers. "Go to every building in your submarket, take a selfie, and post it on Instagram," he advised. “Make yourself a celebrity in your niche.” By combining visibility with a relentless work ethic, Steve believes younger professionals can carve out a unique space in an industry dominated by seasoned veterans.

Education, both formal and informal, remains a priority in Steve’s playbook. He recommends that brokers consider pursuing a master’s degree in real estate to expand their network and knowledge. "The connections you make in those programs can benefit you for the rest of your career," he said. For him, learning never stops, whether it’s from colleagues, books, or even the mistakes he’s made along the way.

Steve’s advice isn’t limited to newcomers. For CEOs and decision-makers, his insights on market trends are sharp. "The smartest people are buying properties with extra land," he said. “It gives them room to expand without disrupting operations later.” He also emphasized the importance of thinking ahead in labor markets. “Businesses need to go where the labor is moving, and that’s further west in areas with high-quality, affordable housing.”

Hard work is at the heart of everything Steve does. He lives by a philosophy of accelerating growth by compressing time. "Get five years of experience in three years," he advised. “Be the first one in, the last to leave, and the one working on Saturday.” For Steve, success doesn’t come from luck, it comes from an unrelenting commitment to outworking the competition.

His parting thoughts are both practical and profound: “Don’t underestimate what you can achieve in a year if you’re all in.” Whether it’s leveraging social media, investing in education, or building authentic relationships, Steve’s story proves that success is within reach for those willing to go the extra mile.

Luis Gonzalez was once someone who chased quick thrills. He would spend hours absorbed in video games or scrolling on his phone without a clear idea of what came next. Over time, he realized that short-lived thrills wouldn’t build the life he wanted. Today, he’s a 28-year-old realtor who mixes focused self-improvement with the drive to succeed in a challenging market.

It wasn’t always smooth for Luis. A couple of years ago, he felt stuck and started craving real change. That’s when he picked up running. He says, “You would be surprised what your body can do and what your mind can do.” He started most days at five or six in the morning, hitting the pavement or the weight room. Even when he hated the idea of stepping into a cold tub, he saw that doing the difficult thing first often led to a stronger day.

He’s big on self-development, not only with fitness but also with building a better mindset. Early on, he chased instant rewards, but soon he realized this approach wouldn’t help him grow. He thought more about his future after meeting a supportive partner. He began asking himself where he wanted to be in the next few years. That new perspective helped him decide to step up and tackle big goals. While building himself physically through running, he discovered a mental toughness that helped him push through hurdles.

Outside of fitness, he had some inside knowledge about real estate, thanks to his parents, yet that alone didn’t guarantee success. He got his license when he was 21, but he wasn’t serious about it at first. After a stint in the restaurant industry, he started to see how to manage stress and deal with different personalities, both of which proved useful in real estate. The long hours of bartending taught him about grit, but he knew he wanted something else. Eventually, he returned to the property world and devoted himself to doing it his way.

He didn’t rely on old methods like cold calling. Instead, he leaned into social media to show homes and highlight his approach. He admits he was once nervous about posting videos, worried about the comments or lack of reactions. He recalls the early days of getting little response: “I realized posting consistently is the key.” Over time, he saw engagement grow, which boosted his confidence and brought in more leads.

He also believes that genuine videos beat fancy editing or flashy camera work. A simple, authentic style helped him connect with people across Illinois. Those videos did more than showcase homes, they showed Luis’s determination. People could see he was hardworking and reachable, so they wanted to do business with him. He turned likes and follows into clients by staying real.

Luis set a goal of helping 43 families in 2025. He figured out that number by reviewing average home prices in his region and mapping it to his income goals. The way he sees it, one must plan big and then take consistent steps each day. His mindset is the same for running marathons. He’s determined to beat his personal record next time around by chipping away at his training plan. Even if it means slogging through tough miles, he believes sticking with the plan will pay off.

In talking about what kept him going, Luis points out the power of consistency. “Be consistent, be genuine. Stick with it. Don’t give up when it’s not working right away,” he says. He thinks it could take months or even a year before everything truly clicks. He just stays loyal to the work, one day at a time. For anyone trying to reach a big goal, whether it’s landing new clients or crossing that marathon finish line, he offers one simple outlook: work hard, be patient, and trust your effort.

He knows results don’t happen by luck. They show up when you show up, even on the days you’d rather roll over and grab your phone. Whether he’s booking new clients, filming a short clip, or taking on a 26.2-mile challenge, he’s living proof that big wins follow small daily steps. His approach is plain: discipline and heart can lead you to a place you never thought possible.

Dan Spiegel’s story isn’t just about commercial real estate; it’s about staying curious, being adaptable, and finding joy in what you do. As Senior Vice President and Managing Director at Coldwell Banker Commercial, Dan has spent over 30 years mastering his craft and mentoring others in a field that thrives on relationships, perseverance, and forward-thinking.

Dan’s entrance into the real estate world wasn’t planned. After earning a master’s degree in urban planning, he stumbled into a research role in commercial real estate. “I didn’t study real estate, but I fell in love with it,” Dan shares. His unexpected start paved the way for a thriving career, proving that where you begin doesn’t define where you’ll go.

In the world of commercial real estate, relationships are everything. Dan emphasizes the importance of curiosity—not just about properties but about the people behind them. “Think about the whole person,” he advises. “A client isn’t just a deal; they’re someone with goals, challenges, and even kids who might need a babysitter.” By adding value to every aspect of a client’s life, Dan explains, you create a bond that goes beyond transactions.

Building relationships is one thing, but maintaining them over decades takes strategy and effort. Dan insists that organization is key. “If you don’t have a system to track conversations, birthdays, or even small details, you lose credibility.” He advocates for CRMs but makes an important distinction: “The best CRM is the one you’ll actually use.”

When asked about closing deals, Dan doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of hard work. “You need to be filling the top of the funnel constantly,” he explains. Deals take time, and the pipeline has to be robust to withstand inevitable setbacks. He also stresses the need to stay ahead of market trends, pivoting when necessary. “Some brokers switch from buildings to land when they see the market shifting. You have to adapt.”

Dan’s career is a testament to the power of team-building. His secret? Hiring people who aren’t like him. “It’s easy to hire people you like because they’re similar to you,” he admits. “But a great team is made up of individuals with complementary skills.” For example, a detail-oriented team member can balance out someone who’s a great door-opener but struggles with follow-through.

Adaptability has been a cornerstone of Dan’s success. While he has stayed in the commercial real estate industry, he has evolved within it. He encourages others to seek growth opportunities, even without changing jobs. “Reinvent yourself within your role,” he advises. “Staying in one place doesn’t mean standing still.”

For Dan, joy is non-negotiable. He believes you should thrive in what you do or make a change. “You’ll never grow if you don’t enjoy what you’re doing,” he says. This philosophy has guided his career and inspired those around him.

Finally, Dan shares a piece of wisdom that encapsulates his approach: “Learn from everyone you meet. Everyone has something to teach you.” Whether it’s a colleague, a client, or even a competitor, there’s always an opportunity to grow.

Michael McLean, Jr. has spent his career redefining what it means to be a real estate developer. As the managing partner of Condor Partners, he isn’t content to simply build spaces—he’s committed to revitalizing entire communities. “We don’t just helicopter in, put up a building, and leave,” Michael shared. “We’re there to stay, to engage, and to ensure what we build remains a positive influence for generations.”

This ethos of long-term impact sets Michael apart in an industry often criticized for prioritizing profits over people. His work on transformative projects like Mural Park in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood illustrates a different approach—one rooted in collaboration and trust. “Community engagement has never harmed me,” he said. “It’s always informed me better about what I should be doing.”

Michael emphasizes transparency as the cornerstone of his leadership. Whether it’s his team, the communities he works within, or the investors he partners with, trust is non-negotiable. “If you can’t build trust, you’re starting off on the wrong foot,” he explained. For Michael, trust isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a foundational principle that shapes every decision, from initial community conversations to long-term project sustainability.

His dedication to fostering trust is particularly evident in the Truly Evanston project. Michael saw an opportunity to do more than just add another apartment complex to the area. By incorporating workforce housing and creating local jobs, Truly Evanston became a catalyst for economic and social integration. “We’re working with the high school and community college,” he noted. “This year, we’ll put over $3 million into the local economy.”

But the road to success hasn’t been without its challenges. Financing remains a constant hurdle, particularly because Condor Partners specializes in diverse, often unconventional projects. “We’re not repeating the same product over and over,” Michael explained. “Each project requires us to find new investors and generate excitement from scratch.”

Despite these challenges, Michael’s passion for his work keeps him going. That passion, he said, is a key criterion for every project his firm takes on. “If we wake up one day and realize we’re not going to make any money on a project, are we still excited to work on it?” he asked. For Michael, the answer must always be yes.

What truly sets Michael apart is his commitment to listening. Whether engaging with residents, teammates, or skeptics, he values differing perspectives. “If we can understand where opposition is coming from, we don’t have to agree, but we can develop respect,” he said. This openness not only mitigates conflict but also leads to better, more inclusive developments.

Michael believes Chicago is poised to lead the Rust Belt’s resurgence. “Our fundamentals are strong,” he said. “We’re discussing our challenges openly, which many other cities aren’t doing.” With a focus on urbanization, thoughtful design, and cultural leadership, Michael is confident Chicago will continue to evolve as a model for modern city development.

Balancing his professional ambitions with his personal life has been key to his success. Michael’s firm invests locally, allowing him to prioritize family and community without sacrificing quality. “We’ve chosen not to invest in markets that pull us away from our values,” he said. This intentional approach ensures that his work remains aligned with his principles, both personally and professionally.

As Michael looks to the future, his optimism is palpable. “Development isn’t just about buildings; it’s about people,” he said. And with leaders like him at the helm, the future of Chicago—and the communities he touches—looks brighter than ever.

For Ted Krzysztofiak, real estate isn’t just a career—it’s a reflection of grit, resilience, and ambition. Arriving in the U.S. in 1991 with his family, Ted’s story began with limited English, shared struggles, and a determination to make something meaningful out of life. “We had to support each other,” he recalls of his early days. Every dollar earned as a part-time worker or truck driver was crucial in keeping his family afloat.

Despite initial challenges, Ted found his way to the world of real estate—a decision sparked by an unexpected encounter with someone in the field. The transition wasn’t simple. Studying real estate law during truck stops, Ted juggled full-time trucking with a dream that had no clear path. “I passed the exam, sold my trucks, and jumped into real estate full-time with no knowledge of how to sell or even talk to people,” he shares.

That leap of faith didn’t come without hurdles. Ted vividly recalls his first eight months in the industry, which yielded zero sales. Instead of giving up, he doubled down. “I worked super hard. By the end of that first year, I sold 14 properties in just a few months,” he says, proving the value of perseverance.

What sets Ted apart is his approach to people. In an industry that often rewards extroversion and aggressive tactics, Ted found strength in listening. “Everyone told me I wouldn’t make it because I wasn’t talkative, but I learned the less I talk, the better I do. People want to be heard.” His calm demeanor and genuine care have not only built his career but also fostered lasting relationships with clients who trust him implicitly.

Ted’s story also illustrates the importance of pushing past comfort zones. “If you want something, start now,” he emphasizes. “In five years, you’ll regret waiting.” His advice resonates with anyone aspiring to make a big change—immigrant or otherwise. He believes in taking action and embracing the discomfort that comes with growth, whether in real estate, life, or even the skies.

Yes, the skies. Ted is also an aerobatic pilot and instructor, a pursuit born from a chance encounter with an instructor who offered him a ride. From gliders to high-intensity aerial maneuvers, Ted found parallels between flying and real estate: discipline, preparation, and the courage to trust the process.

Reflecting on his dual passions, Ted shares, “There’s a checklist for flying, just like in real estate. Follow the process, and you’ll succeed.” His meticulous approach is evident in his work, whether helping families secure their dream homes or guiding them through the complexities of wealth-building.

For Ted, real estate is more than transactions—it’s about changing lives. “We’re helping people build wealth, equity, and history. That’s something they can pass on to their children,” he says. His genuine passion for service extends beyond clients, inspiring anyone striving to carve out a better life.

As Ted continues to balance his thriving career, family ties, and ventures in Poland, his philosophy remains clear: work hard, stay authentic, and never stop learning. “If you put your heart into it, it’s going to happen,” he says. And with Ted, it’s clear that the sky truly is the limit.

Kasia Wrobel is not your average real estate agent. As a featured guest on the Real Estate Moguls Podcast, Kasia shares her journey into real estate, one defined by ambition, a love for people, and a drive to make a difference. Growing up in Chicago with Polish roots, she’s grounded in a deep sense of community and a fierce independence. Her background includes an accounting degree from DePaul University, a skill set that gives her a strong foundation to succeed in Chicago's competitive real estate market.

Kasia’s decision to enter real estate wasn’t traditional, and her approach to it is equally unique. With an academic background in accounting and a knack for numbers, she brings a level of financial literacy and analytical skill to the table. “A lot of agents don’t have a strong math background, so I bring something different to the table,” she shares, highlighting her edge in a business that often hinges on data and precision.

The choice to go into real estate didn’t come without doubts from others who viewed her as “just another agent.” But Kasia knew she wasn’t cut out for the standard 9-to-5, and she was determined to build a career on her own terms. “Helping someone buy a home, especially in America, is a huge accomplishment,” Kasia says. Real estate is more than just contracts to her; it’s about making dreams come true and building connections that last.

Networking has played a vital role in Kasia’s success, despite being relatively new to the real estate scene. Through events across Chicago, she’s learned that showing up with a smile and a willingness to connect can open countless doors. Admitting she’s naturally introverted, Kasia made it her mission to embrace these gatherings as a way to overcome any hesitation. “Every event has boosted my confidence—not just as a real estate agent, but as a person,” she reflects.

In the competitive Chicago real estate market, Kasia stands out for her personalized approach. When meeting new clients, she spends time learning their backgrounds, financial situations, and ideal locations before even starting the search. She specializes in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, connecting clients to resources, like mortgage lenders, through her network at Exit Realty Redefined. It’s this attention to detail and empathy for her clients that have quickly earned her a reputation for excellence.

When asked what advice she’d give her younger self, Kasia’s response is simple yet profound: “Just do what makes you happy.” She admits to feeling pressure to conform to the expectations of a traditional career, but she now recognizes the importance of following one’s own path. “If you have access to resources, go for your dreams, and don’t let anyone’s opinion hold you back,” she says, acknowledging that not everyone has the same opportunities, but that those who do should seize them.

Kasia’s path into real estate is also marked by her passion for people. She enjoys hearing about her clients’ backgrounds and creating bonds that extend beyond the transaction. Her goal isn’t simply to close a deal but to make the entire process feel personal and empowering. Through her work, she’s found that making people smile and creating positive experiences aligns perfectly with her own values and aspirations.

Kasia is a refreshing voice for anyone considering a career change or looking to bring more fulfillment into their lives. Her message is clear: follow your instincts, don’t be afraid to go against the grain, and always bring authenticity to your work. In doing so, Kasia has built a foundation for success that not only benefits her clients but also sets a new standard in the industry.

In Kasia’s words, “Just show up and smile.” These simple actions can change your life in ways you never imagined, both personally and professionally.

Tanya Diaz’s path into real estate was anything but conventional. Growing up, she was surrounded by a family steeped in hard work and resilience. Her father, a contractor and part-time investor, introduced her to real estate early on. She fondly recalls afternoons spent watching him work, and long drives around the city as he pointed out different properties. This exposure planted a love for real estate in Tanya, but it wasn’t until much later that she followed it as a calling.

Before making her mark in the industry, Tanya held down a job in accounts payable at a hospital. The corporate world was stable but didn’t quite ignite her passion. As she became more drawn to real estate, Tanya made the leap, taking classes and getting licensed. Not long after, she joined the small but ambitious team at Realty of Chicago, where she quickly moved up the ranks and grew with the company.

Tanya’s journey is a testament to the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Despite the comfort of her position at Realty of Chicago, she felt a pull to pursue something different. After five years with the company, she decided to take a bold step—launching her own brokerage. It was a move driven not only by her ambition but by her desire to balance her career with her responsibilities as a mom to three teenage boys.

For Tanya, each professional step is also a family decision. With her husband David, a former Olympic boxer, Tanya chose to build something that worked for their family. This meant scaling back in some ways but staying true to her values. “You have to step outside your comfort zone,” she says, advice she gives not only to her children but also to other women around her. For Tanya, surrounding herself with strong women—especially Latina women—has been a source of strength. She explains how watching the accomplishments of others motivates her to raise her own standards.

The strength of Tanya’s network is clear. When she branched out to create her own brokerage, support followed her. Agents she had mentored over the years began reaching out, asking to join her new venture. What started as a small operation quickly became a close-knit team, more like a family than a typical brokerage. "When you’re with people who uplift you, it makes a difference,” she says. For Tanya, this family atmosphere fuels her desire to continue growing and providing opportunities for those around her.

Tanya’s success is a reflection of her belief in continuous growth. Recently, she received an offer to return to Realty of America (formerly Realty of Chicago) in a new capacity as Illinois’ designated managing broker. For her, this role was an ideal blend of familiarity and challenge. In her new position, Tanya not only manages a growing team but also brings a new set of opportunities for her agents, including revenue shares and stock options—something few brokerages offer at this scale.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Tanya credits her resilience and the unwavering support of her family. From helping her father on construction sites to launching her own brokerage and, now, taking on a significant role at Realty of America, Tanya’s journey is one marked by a willingness to evolve. “There’s no growth in the comfort zone,” she shares, a principle that has guided her through every step of her career. In an industry constantly changing, Tanya embraces the unknown with confidence, always ready to redefine what success looks like.

Her story is an inspiration to anyone feeling “stuck.” Tanya reminds us that growth often comes through surrounding ourselves with those who push us to be better. Her advice? Don’t fear the challenges. Take a leap, even if it’s uncertain. For Tanya, each risk has paved the way for something greater, proving that success isn’t just about achieving goals but also about the courage to pursue them in the first place.

Dan Wagner’s story is a testament to how the right mix of innovation, community involvement, and personal values can drive extraordinary success in the real estate world. As the Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the Inland Real Estate Group, Dan has witnessed the company’s evolution from humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest commercial real estate firms in the country. The company’s success, however, isn’t just a result of shrewd business acumen—it’s deeply rooted in a commitment to integrity, service, and long-term relationships.

The Inland Real Estate Group’s story started with four Chicago public school teachers who wanted a better financial future. Dan fondly shares how they pooled resources with fellow teachers, venturing into real estate. Their first step was modest: small property investments. Yet, this small collective effort led to the creation of a real estate powerhouse that would revolutionize the industry. From those humble beginnings, Inland grew to become a key player in commercial real estate, even pioneering the use of 1031 exchanges and Delaware statutory trusts.

Dan describes the transformative power of the 1031 exchange, a tax-deferral mechanism that has played a pivotal role in Inland’s strategy. He uses a simple analogy: “It’s like breathing—you don’t realize how important it is until you can’t do it anymore.” He elaborates on how the 1031 exchange allows investors to defer taxes by reinvesting in similar properties, thereby stimulating economic activity across the nation. This strategy enabled Inland to tackle challenges like underwater investments and turn them into opportunities that benefit communities and investors alike.

One memorable example Dan shares is about a dilapidated Kmart building in Naperville, Illinois. The property’s owner couldn’t sell it due to high capital gains taxes, leaving it as an eyesore in the community. Instead of condemning the property, Inland proposed a 1031 exchange solution that allowed the owner to sell without an immediate tax burden. As a result, the property was redeveloped into a thriving retail space, bringing jobs and revenue to the area. It’s stories like these that highlight why Dan is so passionate about advocating for the preservation of the 1031 exchange.

For Dan, it’s not just about business; it’s about doing the right thing for the people and communities Inland serves. This philosophy has guided Inland through both triumphs and tragedies, including the recent passing of their longtime Chairman and CEO, Mr. Dan Goodwin. Goodwin, who rose from poverty to create a billion-dollar enterprise, left a lasting legacy of resilience, generosity, and leadership. His personal story, growing up in a home with only a washtub and a toilet, only makes Inland’s success more remarkable. Today, his vision lives on through leaders like Dan and the team at Inland, who continue to prioritize ethics and community impact.

Innovation, as Dan puts it, has always been part of Inland’s DNA. From pioneering fractional share investments in Walmarts to expanding into various segments like property tax management and insurance, Inland has continually adapted to meet market needs. But as advanced as Inland’s strategies are, Dan insists that success in real estate still comes down to relationships. “Everyone can talk about AI and technology, but it’s all about building trust and maintaining integrity.”

He further emphasizes that being involved in professional associations has been key to his own career development. “Iron sharpens iron,” Dan notes, encouraging emerging professionals to network and collaborate with their peers, even if they are competitors. It’s through these dynamic interactions, he believes, that the most growth happens. “Get out there, learn, and meet your colleagues,” Dan advises, stressing the value of shared knowledge and mutual support.

Despite Inland’s impressive achievements, Dan remains grounded and focused on the future. He expresses optimism about the company’s ongoing work, particularly in expanding the use of 1031 exchanges and other innovative real estate solutions. With his blend of expertise, passion, and dedication to both his profession and community, Dan Wagner’s story is one that any real estate professional—or aspiring entrepreneur—can learn from.