Women Who Lead

Leadership takes many forms from building high-performing teams to leading with heart, intuition, and purpose. In this episode of Women Who Lead, I'm joined by three powerful women who share how authenticity, courage, and alignment have shaped their leadership journeys. Robin, Athena, and Ruta open up about growth, mindset, and what it really means to lead with intention in today's evolving real estate landscape.

Meet the Leaders

· Robin Miller

Robin brings decades of experience in real estate leadership, known for her thoughtful approach to mentoring, business development, and people-first leadership. She is passionate about helping others grow with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

· Athena Petersen

Athena is a respected real estate leader and coach who blends strategy with intuition. Her leadership philosophy centers on authenticity, personal growth, and creating environments where individuals and teams can thrive.

· Ruta Predkelis

Ruta is a dynamic leader recognized for her global perspective, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. She brings a thoughtful, forward-thinking approach to leadership, rooted in continuous learning and meaningful connection.

Leadership Journeys & Personal Growth

Robin, Athena, and Ruta share how their individual paths into leadership were shaped by experience, self-awareness, and a willingness to evolve. Each reflects on defining moments that helped them step more fully into their roles and trust their leadership voice.

Leading with Intention and Authenticity

The conversation explores how intentional leadership creates stronger teams and healthier cultures. The guests discuss the importance of presence, self-reflection, and staying aligned with personal values while navigating professional responsibilities.

Mindset, Energy, and Influence

This segment highlights how mindset and energy directly impact leadership effectiveness. The panel talks about awareness, resilience, and the responsibility leaders have to model emotional intelligence and balance for those they lead.

Growth, Adaptability, and the Future of Leadership

Robin, Athena, and Ruta reflect on embracing change, staying curious, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. They emphasize that leadership is not static and that success comes from staying open to learning and new perspectives.

Inspirational Thoughts

Robin Miller's Uplifting Message: Leadership starts with self-awareness and the courage to lead with integrity, even when the path isn't clear.

Athena Petersen's Uplifting Message: True leadership is rooted in authenticity when you lead from who you truly are, others feel empowered to do the same.

Ruta Predkelis's Uplifting Message: Growth happens when you remain curious, adaptable, and open to possibility, no matter where you are in your journey.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. That belief is at the heart of Women Who Lead. For more inspiring conversations, connect with Teresa on LinkedIn, join the Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe on YouTube. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere podcasts are available.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

How can you not love real estate when you're surrounded by the beauty of Italy and Mexico? But leading and building a successful real estate career in another country is not always as easy or glamorous as it might look. That is exactly why I invited three incredible women to join me in this episode. They open up about the realities of working abroad, the challenges they've overcome, and the lessons they've learned along the way.

Meet the Leaders

Dr. Marina Rizzotto Yakovleva: Founder and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Palazzo Estate in Italy

Email: [email protected]

Michelle Wilhelm: Owner and COO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Baja Real Estate in Mexico

Email: [email protected]

Carmen Chong: CEO of the Global Real Estate Alliance at AREAA Global

Email: [email protected]

Personal Journeys Into Real Estate (00:02:25 to 00:11:13)

Dr. Yakovleva talks about falling in love with Italian culture and architecture and how that passion helped her build a luxury brand in Italy.

Michelle shares how she moved from Canada to Baja, Mexico, started a brokerage after COVID, and made transparency the heart of her business.

Carmen tells her powerful story of resilience, leaving Nicaragua, adapting to a new life, and eventually stepping into her role as the leader of AREAA Global.

Navigating Cross-Border Leadership (00:20:36 to 00:24:43)

Michelle highlights the importance of thinking globally and staying aware of emerging trends. Dr. Marina talks about leading with curiosity, respect, and genuine relationship-building when working across different cultures.

Courage, Pivots, and Professional Growth (00:25:35 to 00:37:38)

Dr. Marina and Michelle share the challenges of moving to new countries and launching fresh ventures.

Carmen opens up about stepping confidently into leadership, including her decision to establish AREAA Global as a separate business entity.

Setbacks, Resilience, and Secrets to Success (00:40:00 to 00:54:27)

The panel gets honest about the setbacks they faced along the way. They talk about how they pushed through difficult seasons and the habits that keep them grounded, like going for walks, enjoying simple coffee chats, counting their blessings, and staying close to family.

Inspirational Thoughts (00:55:00 – 00:58:30)

Dr. Marina Rizzotto Yakovleva

Books/Podcasts: How I Built This by Guy Raz – Marina calls this "absolutely classic" with fascinating conversations featuring founders behind brands like Airbnb, Spanx, and Patagonia.

Diary of a CEO – Another favorite podcast she enjoys listening to.

Uplifting Message: To women who dream big but feel intimidated, Marina says: "Don't wait until you feel ready, just start. Don't be afraid to fail a little along your way because every mistake teaches you something new."

Carmen Chong

Uplifting Quote: "Pay it forward. There must be something you know that can help someone else. Be bigger than yourself and share what you've learned."

Michelle Wilhelm

Uplifting Quote: Michelle shares a fun and motivating reminder: "Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you."

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

Tenacity isn't just a buzzword, it's a defining mindset that helps leaders break through barriers, persevere through challenges, and shape the future of real estate. In this episode, host Teresa Palacios Smith sits down with three remarkable women who embody this spirit. They share candid stories from their careers, the lessons they've learned, and how they stay resilient even when the path isn't easy.

Meet the Leaders

• Wanda Gertin CEO: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ally Real Estate Wanda Gertin leads BHHS Ally Real Estate, overseeing the brand's largest-ever startup and driving growth across Northwest and Central Louisiana. With 12 years in real estate, she previously earned national recognition as Relocation Director of the Year and is active in industry leadership, currently serving as 2025 President-Elect for the Women's Council of REALTORS® Shreveport Bossier Network.
• Kim G. Stevens Broker & Chief Visionary: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Pocono Real Estate. Kim G. Stevens has led BHHS Pocono Real Estate for nearly three decades, known for her inspiring, spirit-centered leadership style. She is also the creator of Unique Perspectives, her blog and video series that encourages growth, humor, and authenticity. Her mission: to uplift and empower others by helping them see life through a more meaningful lens.
• Carol Stover Vice President, East Coast Region: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty. Carol Stover oversees 10 branch offices and more than 400 sales professionals across Florida's East Coast Region. With a long career in real estate leadership, she has held executive roles at Prudential Network Realty and Coldwell Banker, and has served as a Director with NAR, Florida REALTORS®, and NEFAR. She is also deeply committed to community service.

Personal Journeys into Real Estate (00:02:25 – 00:11:13)

Wanda, Kim, and Carol open up about their early paths into real estate and the personal experiences that shaped their passion for leadership. They discuss the pivotal career moments that taught them resilience, adaptability, and the power of staying committed even when the journey gets tough.

Navigating Leadership Across Markets & Regions (00:20:36 – 00:24:43)

From Louisiana to the Poconos to Florida's East Coast, each leader brings a unique perspective on guiding teams, building relationships, and understanding market dynamics. They share what it takes to lead effectively across different regions, cultures, and business environments.

Courage, Pivots, and Professional Growth (00:25:35 – 00:37:38)

Whether launching new ventures, rebuilding teams, or stepping into major leadership roles, the panel reflects on the courage required to pivot in new directions. They talk about trusting their instincts, learning from challenges, and embracing uncertainty as a catalyst for growth.

Setbacks, Resilience, and Secrets to Success (00:40:00 – 00:54:27)

The conversation turns honest and heartfelt as they discuss setbacks that shaped them both personally and professionally. They share the habits and grounding practices from simple walks to staying connected with family that keep them centered and moving forward.

Inspirational Thoughts (00:55:00 – 00:58:30)

Wanda Gertin's Uplifting Message: Wanda encourages women to trust their drive, lean into their strengths, and never underestimate the power of showing up with determination.

Kim G. Stevens's Uplifting Quote: "To thine own self be true." Kim reminds us that authenticity is the most powerful foundation for leadership.

Carol Stover's Uplifting Message: Carol highlights the importance of giving generously, staying grounded, and remembering that leadership is ultimately about serving others.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

From flavor to rhythm to history, the impact of Hispanics on our world is unforgettable. This month, I'm thrilled to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with four incredible women in the real estate industry. They share powerful stories of breaking barriers, building community, and redefining what leadership looks like.

Meet The Leaders

· Maggie Mathews is a celebrated broker, mentor, keynote speaker, and best-selling author with over 24 years of real estate experience. She is the driving force behind the Latinas in Real Estate book series, now three volumes strong, amplifying the voices of Latina professionals across the industry.

· Jackie Castanera serves as the Assistant Sales Manager at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, overseeing Chicago's West region in Oak Park. Committed to helping agents and clients thrive, Jackie is not only an accomplished real estate leader but also a passionate community advocate who draws from her rich family legacy of business leadership.

· Ileana Rojas Saldana is the co-founder and president of United Latinas, a respected leadership coach, and a DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) trailblazer. Through United Latinas, she strives to empower Latinas by elevating their leadership, visibility, and voice, offering resources such as book series (Extraordinary Latinas), public speaking programs, and community chapters nationwide.

· Ellie Sanz is an attorney and the founder of ES Law, where she serves as a trusted bilingual advocate for her clients throughout real estate transactions. As a Latina in the male-dominated field of law, she cites the importance of being comfortable with discomfort, communicating with confidence, and standing her ground while also remaining open and respectful.

Overcoming Barriers and Shaping Legacies

· Each guest delves into the challenges faced as Latinas in often male-dominated and unwelcoming environments.

· They share strategies for overcoming self-doubt, combating stereotypes, and reclaiming their voices.

· The power of mentors, community, and staying prepared emerges as recurring themes, with each guest highlighting key individuals who fueled their confidence and ambition.

Defining Leadership and Legacy

· For Maggie, leadership is about being the mentor she never had. As the daughter of immigrant parents and the oldest of four, she often had to figure things out on her own. Her proudest moments come not only from personal recognition, but also from helping countless women find their confidence and achieve their goals.

· Jackie views leadership as embodying preparation, confidence, and authenticity. She has learned that respect is earned through consistency and readiness. For her, legacy is about perseverance—proving doubters wrong, uplifting her daughters with her story, and continuing the entrepreneurial spirit passed down from her family.

· Ellie defines leadership as having the courage to take risks, speak up, and claim space even in male-dominated industries. Her legacy is rooted in the decision to leave big law, establish her own firm, and build a career on her own terms. She believes in leading by example, showing that success comes from self-trust, resilience, and turning discomfort into growth.

· For Ileana, leadership means reclaiming the voice she once lost in the corporate world and helping other women do the same. She believes legacy is not just about rising individually but about bringing others along—creating communities where Latinas can be seen, heard, and supported.

Favorite Books, Podcasts, and Quotes

· Ellie Sanz:

o Mantra/Quote: Trust yourself, speak up, and take up space. As she put it, "If you're wrong, the worst that happens is you learn something and you do it gracefully and you own it. And if you're right, then you lead."

· Jackie Castanera:

o Mantra/Advice: Take risks, and don't be afraid to step forward even when uncertain. She emphasized the importance of being passionate, giving back to your community, and finding that intersection between your work and your passions.

· Ileana Rojas Saldana:

o Mantra/Quote: "Believe in the power of your voice." She's built her life and coaching around this idea, focusing on helping women own and elevate their voices and presence.

· Maggie Mathews:

o Book: She recommends Mel Robbins' book, "The Let Them Theory," saying it's incredibly helpful for mindset and personal development. She also mentioned Mel Robbins' other books, "The Five Second Rule" and "The High Five Theory," as impactful.

o Podcast: She highlighted Mel Robbins' podcast as the number one podcast right now and highly recommended it.

o Quote/Mantra: Maggie reflected on the idea that "our lives are our chapters, and we are the authors of our best-selling books, and everybody's story is very, very important."

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

Real estate agents are often the face of the industry, but they wouldn't get far without the brilliant minds working behind the scenes. These are the leaders who keep the entire operation running smoothly with their exceptional administrative and operational skills.

Today, I'm joined by three incredible women who have mastered this crucial space: Sherrie Porter, Melissa Ryan, and Stephanie Wolf. They'll share their insights and expertise on what it takes to lead in the real estate industry, from the front office to the back end.

Grab your cafecito and join us as we explore how a blend of operational excellence and strategic vision creates a foundation for success.

Meet The Leaders

• Sherrie Porter, Chief Operating Officer, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, [email protected].
• Melissa Ryan, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel of Long & Foster Real Estate, [email protected].
• Stephanie Wolf, General Manager, Pickford Escrow, [email protected].

Breaking the Mold: Three Different Journeys into Real Estate

• Sherry shares her 38-year journey from an entry-level role to COO, highlighting the relationship-driven nature of real estate and her experience in both residential and operational leadership.
• Melissa discusses her transition from real estate law to a multifaceted executive role, overseeing property management, legal, and operational functions for thousands of agents.
• Stephanie recounts her unique entry into escrow, emphasizing California's apprenticeship model and her path from entry-level to managing multiple branches.

Defining Leadership Styles

• Each of the ladies describes their views on a people-centered approach:
• Stephanie focuses on pragmatism, advocacy, and making sure "people matter."
• Sherry emphasizes servant leadership, strategic thinking, and leading by example.
• Melissa prioritizes a "people first" mindset, ensuring culture and operational efficiency go hand in hand.

Building a Culture of Belonging and Support

• Melissa emphasizes the powerful impact of putting people where their passions and strengths align. Her strategy is less about implementing a single system and more about intentionally understanding what excites each team member.
• Stephanie underscores the importance of teamwork and an inclusive, collaborative culture across her organization. She credits much of their success to intentionally breaking down silos between departments and operational "core services" (such as escrow and sales).
• Sherry Porter focuses on maximizing each person's unique strengths and maintaining a mindset of continuous growth and adaptability. She uses insights from books like Marcus Buckingham's Now, Discover Your Strengths to intentionally place people in positions where they naturally excel.

Supporting & Elevating Women

• Stephanie shares how in Southern California, that 87% of escrow branch leaders are women. Her company actively promotes and uplifts women as they grow in their careers by offering training classes, advisory committees, and brainstorming sessions.There's a culture of supporting women at all career stages, so they have opportunities to participate, learn, and advance.
• Sherry is intentional about seeking out and building a bench of future leaders, especially as her organization experiences changes among top leadership. She empowers women by challenging them, giving them opportunities, and offering her support—focusing on questions that get to the heart of what might help women move forward or get "unstuck."
• Melissa believes women in leadership must take responsibility for building a bench of future women leaders. She directly supports women in her organization—though not through a formal mentorship program, she actively identifies talent and provides growth and learning opportunities so women can step into bigger roles.

Recommended Resources & Inspiration

• Stephanie mentioned her admiration for Simon Sinek, quoting, "We have the luxury of looking after ourselves, but we have the honor of looking after each other," which reflects her value of team and collective success. She also follows Mel Robbins for motivation and recommended Mary Claire Haver, a Texas-based doctor who leads a revolution for women navigating perimenopause and menopause.
• Melissa highlighted the book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success," emphasizing the importance of having a growth mindset, especially in times of industry change.
• Sherry Porter recommended the book "Now, Discover Your Strengths" by Marcus Buckingham. She also talked about "The Power of Moments" by Chip and Dan Heath.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

With thousands of submissions to be a part of the NAHREP's Top list, only 250 can make it. I'm proud to say that I have three lovely estrellas who made this list: Iris Lobo, Sandra Juliano, and Jennifer Price, who are chatting with me in this episode. Grab your cafecitos and join us in this conversation to hear their stories of resilience, reinvention, and purpose-driven leadership in real estate to empower you to shine in your own lane.

Meet the Leaders

• Iris Lobo, REALTOR® and Team Leader, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, [email protected].
• Sandra Juliano – REALTOR®, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties, [email protected].
• Jennifer Price – REALTOR®, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, in Florida, [email protected].

Estrellas' Backgrounds & Markets

• Each of my guests discussed what made them choose real estate as their profession. Sandra started within the New York City market through a mix of professional and personal transitions. The median home price in her market is around $1.2 million. Sandra's clientele often includes professionals with connections to NYC and corporations in the area.
• Iris Lobo leads the Spanish-speaking team in Omaha, Nebraska, and also serves the Council Bluffs, Iowa, area. She and her team focus on empowering Latino families, with typical home values ranging from $250,000 to $350,000.
• Jennifer Price serves Miami and South Florida, specializing in multicultural and multilingual clients. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, she particularly serves the Brazilian and South American communities.

Achievements & Honors

• Each estrella reflects on the immense honor and significance of being named among NAHREP's Top 250 Latino real estate agents. The accolade is highly competitive and acknowledges excellence and impact in service to the community.
• They also explore how their heritage and upbringing have shaped their drive and ambitions, ultimately leading them to where they are today.

Bold Moves & Defining Moments

• After losing her corporate job, Jennifer chose not to succumb to fear and decided to reinvent herself. She trusted her instincts and pursued what truly made her happy. She believed in herself, didn't let fear get in the way, and attributes her success to that defining moment of self-belief and action.
• Sandra's difficult moment came when she was at a local park and someone assumed that she was her son's nanny due to her looks and told her something unsettling. Rather than letting this discourage her, Sandra used it as fuel to prove them wrong and succeed in real estate. That experience solidified her determination and drive.
• Early in Iris's career, she felt unsupported even by those closest to her. This made her doubt her potential for success. However, real, meaningful connections with clients and discovering her true passion for helping others through homeownership helped her push past the urge to quit.

Adapting to Industry Change

• With the rise of AI technology, each of my guests shares how they're adapting to its use in real estate. Jennifer shares how she utilizes ChatGPT as a powerful ally and emphasizes the importance of authenticity on social media.
• Sandra discusses how she understands that it's best for her to turn her social media channels over to a trusted specialist. Doing so allows her to extend her reach in more meaningful ways and make her brand more connected to the community.
• Iris mentions feeding her values and information into AI tools to make sure her content maintains her authentic voice. For her team, tech solutions are customized to match their unique blend of faith, culture, and strategy.

Podcasts, Life Lessons, & Quotes

• Jennifer: Shared Maya Angelou's wisdom, "People will never forget how you made them feel," emphasizing the lasting value of showing care and positivity.
• Iris: Quoted Luke 1:37, "Faith doesn't make things easy; it makes them possible," highlighting the sustaining power of faith in hard times.
• Sandra: Recommended the podcast "You're Dead To Me," for its engaging, comedic takes on history—especially stories of women's strength and resilience.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

Women Who Lead 048: Betsy Cameron, Jeana Sander, Talia Tiffany | Bold Catalysts

Welcome back to this monthly series of Women Who Lead. In this episode, I'm sitting down with three lovely ladies in the real estate industry: Betsy Cameron, President of Ebby Holiday Companies; Gina Sander, Vice President and Regional Manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties; and Tallie Tiffany, Director of Legal Operations at HomeServices of America. We dive into the importance of legacy, bold decision-making, and the mindset shifts required to lead effectively during transformative times.

Meet the Leaders

• Betsy Cameron, President, Ebby Halliday Companies, [email protected]

• Jeana Sander, Vice President & Vice President & Regional Manager, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, [email protected]

• Talia Tiffany, Director of Legal Operations, HomeServices of America, [email protected]

Humble Beginnings in Real Estate

• Betsy Cameron: Raised in a real estate family, Betsy's journey led her from teaching special education to becoming an executive in the real estate industry. She credits her mother's influence, a foundation in service, and embracing both legacy and innovation as key leadership drivers.

• Gina Sander: Transitioning from commercial to residential real estate, Gina found a passion for guiding clients through major decisions. Her career saw acceleration through multiple leadership invites, leading to her overseeing 700 California agents with a focus on values, integrity, and authentic connection.

• Tallie Tiffany: With a strong background in law and real estate from a young age, Tallie blends legal expertise with practical business insights. She shares the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and "lifting as you climb," especially through peer collaboration.

Navigating Courageous Decisions

• Each leader shares their moments that required boldness—whether it was Betsy making the leap after 16 years at another brokerage, Gina uprooting her life to take a career leap, or Tallie leaving a secure legal job for the uncertainties of a commission-based role.

• At the heart: integrity, compassion, and staying true to core values, even when change is uncomfortable.

Building Legacy and Fostering Inclusion

• We delve into how these women honor the legacies of their predecessors while innovating for the future.

• All three emphasize creating space at the table for women, elevating colleagues, and developing skills through both mentorship and sponsorship.

• They also discuss the importance of inclusivity and support networks within and beyond their organizations.

Real Estate and Tech: Meeting Today's Challenges

• Facing market challenges like affordability, inventory shortages, and shifting client expectations, the ladies highlight the critical role of education, data, and new technology tools, including AI and automated marketing solutions.

• They stress adaptability and continuous learning as essential leadership qualities.

Favorite Quotes, Podcasts, and Books

• Tallie shares that her two favorite podcasts are "Women at Work" by Harvard Business Review and "Good Hang" by Amy Poehler.

• Betsy shares that she enjoys listening to Simon Sinek the most.

• Gina loved the book "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz and is subscribed to the Daily Stoic. She just recently finished reading "The Obstacle Is the Way" by Ryan Holiday. Also, her favorite quote is by Winston Churchill, "You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks."

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

Learning about the banking and mortgage industry can help you reach your dreams of becoming a homeowner. In this month's episode, I'm sitting down with three lovely ladies who are striving to make positive changes in gaining access to homeownership, financial education, and inclusive leadership. Grab your cafecito and join us in this lovely conversation.

Meet The Leaders

• Latonia Donaldson, SVP National Director of Multicultural Lending, PrimeLending

• Dr. Vanessa Montañez, SVP, Head of Community Lending, CityNational Bank

• Rosario Lawrence, Area Sales Manager, Newrez Home Loan Division

Humble Beginnings in the Lending Industry and Leadership

• Latonia started as a processor to gain an understanding of the banking industry, then switched over to becoming a loan officer. An unexpected change happened that helped her realize the impact she was making on families achieving their homeownership dreams. This led her to transition into leadership roles with Wells Fargo, which brought her to her role now.

• Just like Latonia, Rosario started her banking career in 1994. Even though her first position was supposed to just help her get through college, she ended up falling in love with the industry. She decided to go down the leadership path, thanks to someone pulling her aside and showing her how it was a lucrative career that helped children.

• Dr. Vanessa's father accidentally guided her into business after telling her that the art major she was going for wasn't a good fit for the lifestyle she was accustomed to. After entering the banking industry, she saw how it was a powerful fuel for creating generational wealth. Seeing how transformative homeownership is for people, she joined leadership roles to ensure that the underrepresented population can continue to reach their dreams.

Challenges in Financial Leadership Roles as Minority Women

• Rosario shares how when there are shifts in the financial space, it impacts minorities in gaining homeownership. She becomes the voice of this demographic to ensure market shifts don't keep them from owning a home.

• Dr. Vanessa dives into how there have been many times she was sitting at a table and certain people would talk over her. She realized if she was going through this in her position, then how many other women of color were facing the same issue as her. Not wanting to keep being quiet about the issue, she decided she needed to be on the opposite side of the table to make positive changes for equality in homeownership.

• Latonia also faced the same difficulties as Dr. Vanessa. She shares how most women, no matter their backgrounds, often struggle with imposter syndrome. We're sitting at tables and when sharing our ideas, they often get ignored. But when someone else says the same thing, it becomes a great idea. This is why Latonia and the other two ladies are in the positions they are today: to stand up for rights and be a voice for those who are often underrepresented.

Mentors, Quotes, and Books

• Dr. Vanessa is passionate about reading and admires women who embody strength, vulnerability, and can lead with grace under pressure. She recommends Michelle Obama's book, "Becoming," and enjoys the quote, "Becoming is not about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain need, it's about the journey of continuous growth." Dr. Vanessa shares how the quote reflects that the process of growth is ongoing and contributes to one's identity.

• Latonia shares how she admires the CEO of TIAA, Thasunda Brown Duckett. She believes that Thasunda simplifies what it means to be a leader in the financial space while maintaining her authentic self. She's not afraid to share her journey with others and to help lift them up. Latonia's favorite quote from Thasunda is, "I rock my title, I own my character. My title belongs to my employer, my character is Thasunda Brown Duckett's ownable asset." Her favorite book is by Don Miguel Ruiz, "The Four Agreements," because it deeply resonates with her leadership style.

• Rosario doesn't have one person of admiration; instead, she celebrates every single person who is fighting and achieving their goals.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

Get ready for a powerful conversation! In this month's series, I'm thrilled to host three incredible leaders: Stacy Durbin, Maria Kazakos, and Jenny Moyer.

They're here to share how their innovative approaches and unwavering dedication shape the real estate industry. Join me as I chat with these three lovely next-level powerhouses to delve into their unique challenges and learn their secret to success.

Meet the Leaders

• Stacy Durbin, President of HomeServices, KOI, Inc.

• Maria Kazakos, President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas Realty

• Jenny Moyer, Vice President, Network Services, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Start in Real Estate and Current Positions

• Stacy started her journey into real estate in 2004, after her friend's encouragement. In 2009, she entered the corporate side of a company she was working with at the time and became a relocation director, which started her leadership career. Only being in her current role since the start of 2025, Stacy found that listening, learning, and engaging with others helped her step into it effectively and thrive in her new responsibilities.

• Jenny began her career after leaving her Old Navy job at 17, and her mom, who was a managing broker, invited her to become a receptionist for her company. After graduating from college, she was able to move up in her leadership positions. Stepping into the position she has now was sudden and unexpected, but eventually she came to the realization that with time and help, she would be able to overcome the challenges and excel in her new leadership capacity.

• After leaving the teaching profession, Maria found that real estate aligned with the goals in all areas of her life. She believed that every role she has ever had since entering the industry could be considered a leadership position. Maria began her current position nine months ago, and found that having the right team members around makes the transition seamless and fosters a supportive environment for success.

Navigating Agents through Current Shifts and Challenges

• Stacy shares how she likes to keep her agents motivated through the current changes by evolving how they do things within the company. She provides a positive workplace to help her agents reflect on the first quarter and see how they can be successful for the rest of the year.

• Knowing how often the unexpected changes can disrupt the real estate field, Maria teaches her real estate agents that they have to own the outcomes. Nothing goes as planned, and as long as you're taking the time to reflect and adapt, success will come.

Favorite Books and Quotes

• Jenny lives by the "work hard, play hard" philosophy, believing that achieving your dreams comes before enjoying life's pleasures. A favorite quote from Sara Blakely, "Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else," truly resonates with her.

• Stacy, meanwhile, recommends Lead Like You Mean It, highlighting its valuable insights on nurturing relationships and supporting others.

Favorite Books and Quotes

• Jenny lives by the "work hard, play hard" philosophy, believing that achieving your dreams comes before enjoying life's pleasures. A favorite quote from Sara Blakely, "Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else," truly resonates with her.

• Stacy, meanwhile, recommends Lead Like You Mean It, highlighting its valuable insights on nurturing relationships and supporting others.

• Maria finds her father to be a guiding light, offering essential advice throughout her life. She's currently enjoying The Energy Bus, appreciating its message about the importance of positive energy.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.

If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together. This African proverb can describe the importance of having trusted partnerships in real estate.

In today's episode, I chat with three leading ladies: Jessica Cook, Lina King, and Susie Wright, on how they're developing connections to help simplify the home buying process for everyone.

Grab your cafecito and join us for this lovely chat on the power of collaboration.

Meet The Leaders

• Jessica Cook, Franchise Development Manager, Home Team Inspection Service, [email protected].

• Lina King, Manager, myNHD, [email protected]

• Susie Wright, Senior Vice President, Business Operations, NAF Homes America, [email protected]

Adapting to Industry Changes to Better Serve Clients

• Lina highlights how wildfires have been a major problem for her clients. To help them out, she found a tool that her agents can use to provide fire and flood zone information. This is to help her agents better serve their clients during the home buying process, so they don't have a surprise after everything is done.

• Susie discusses how her industry is facing a settlement change, and to help serve her clients, she started educating herself on these recent changes. Then, once she learned about the changes, she began educating her loan officers and leadership teams to prepare them better to provide clients with information. She also states how, even though challenges are scary, when you take the time to educate yourself about them, you'll learn how to embrace them.

• Jessica explains when it might be time to make changes in the organization to help adapt to industry changes and serve clients better. If one person wants to stay in a specific spot, it may keep a company from growing.

Innovation With AI Technology

• Jessica highlights how the Home Team Inspection Service implements AI tools to enhance its inspection process. This is to help increase efficiency and expedite obtaining necessary information, allowing inspectors to verify data more quickly and accurately. For agents, they have developed an AI app to serve clients better with booking and customer support.

• Expanding on the theme of AI, Susie also shares its potential to create internal efficiencies and improve processes.

• Offering a cautionary perspective, Lina advises that when it comes to checking properties for flooding or fire zones, it's best to ask the professionals and not AI. She knows how AI technology can help with some tasks; however, you can't always rely on it to give you updated and correct information.

Favorite Books and Quotes

• Lina's favorite quote: "Leaders become great not because of their power, but their ability to empower others."

• Jessica shared a couple of impactful quotes:

• "Our success is more attitude than aptitude."

• "If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life thinking it's stupid."

• Jessica's recommended read: "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie.

• Susie's go-to quote for perspective: "This too shall pass."

• Susie's recommended book: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins.

When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found.

This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur.

Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.