Mindset Matters w/ Jimmy Everetts: Recent Episodes
Jimmy Everetts
What drives people? What are the questions that face each and everyone of us every single day, and what are the answers the most successful of us find to those questions?Mindset Matters dives into what makes human beings tick, what makes one person accomplish what another could not, and what unites us all in the pursuit of our ideal self. Hosted by Jimmy Everetts
Jon Yacovetta's story is one of curiosity, reinvention, and a genuine love of helping people find their footing. The co-owner and COO of Guide Real Estate, and founder of the Yacovetta Collection, grew up a self-described weird kid in the heart of Denver. He was a mullet-wearing bowler obsessed with pro wrestling and rock and roll, who fell hard for whatever captured him. Ken Griffey Jr. pulled him into baseball at thirteen, and though he was too small to keep playing in college, coaching became the thing that stuck. He spent all four years at the University of Kansas as an assistant coach at Lawrence High School, earning a degree in Spanish literature and discovering he was a words-and-language person to his core.
Back home in Denver, that passion carried him through eight years as head baseball coach at George Washington High School, including the honor of coaching his younger brother, and into the classroom, where he taught Spanish and rose to chair the English department at Venture Prep. A mentor's words to him at 22, "I can't wait to see how you change the world," became a quiet driving force behind everything he did as a coach and a teacher.
When administrative changes and a missing teaching license ended his education career in 2017, his lifelong friend Brett Weinstein finally convinced him to try real estate. Jon joined Brett's team, weathered the humbling shift from classroom expert to overwhelmed rookie, and found his feet on a white-knuckle 2020 deal that told him he could do this for the long haul. When Brett opened his own company, Jon grew into a mentor and, eventually, a co-owner.
In this episode, Jon opens up about the identity shift from educator to agent, the mentors and hard lessons that shaped him, why authenticity is the real common denominator among successful realtors, and how fatherhood unlocked an entirely new way of connecting with people. He talks about family dinners with his wife, Katie, and daughter, Hazel, about Spaghetti Sundays, his love of Italy, and the single trait he'd pass to his daughter: a rock-and-roll spirit that, in his words, comes down to being ferocious and being yourself.
And Jon's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Jess Arguello's story is one of persistence, family, and an unshakable commitment to doing what she says she'll do. Now with Real in Denver, Jess grew up in Thornton after moving from Albuquerque as a young kid, the youngest in a blended family of six that came together when her single mom remarried before high school. She started working at fifteen as a courtesy clerk at King Soopers, climbed into a management role, and — in one of those aisles between stores — met her husband, Simone.
Real estate wasn't the first plan. Jess was well into the hiring process to become a jail officer in 2017 when she learned she was pregnant and the academy fell away. She moved into back-end collections, where she consistently ranked near the top and where a coworker, Mike Morales, first told her she'd make a great realtor. Characteristically, she went all in quietly — studying at the library every Sunday, telling no one but her husband, and taking the licensing exam seven times before she passed, just days before COVID closed the testing centers.
She started at RE/MAX in 2020 already raising two young kids, built an audience on YouTube answering first-time homebuyer questions, and closed 20 transactions to earn Rookie of the Year — all while still working her collections job for the first six months. At deal twelve, she realized she was losing money by not committing fully, and with Simone as her biggest cheerleader, she leaped.
In this episode, Jess opens up about mom guilt and the search for balance, the discipline and schedules that keep her family of six running, her honest reflections on reaching the next level without taking more from her kids, and the long, emotional IVF journey that grew their family to four children — welcoming twins Cruz and Laney in 2025. Above all, it's a conversation about heart over commission, showing up as promised, and being remembered as someone whose intentions are pure.
And Jess's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Andrew Abrams's story is one of curiosity, humility, and a stubborn commitment to doing the harder right. The founder of the Abrams Momentum Group at Guide Real Estate grew up in Denver's Tech Center — the youngest by six and nine years behind two adoring older sisters, raised by a teacher mother and a dentist father who knew his calling at age five and who Andrew says identifies more as a coach than anything else. Competitive but without natural athletic gifts, he learned early that effort was the equalizer.
He studied psychology at CU Boulder without a clear plan, then spent his early twenties working with at-risk youth on a crisis intervention team — rewarding work that couldn't sustain a living. He'd picked up a real estate license almost by accident, then found his way into an office running roughly a hundred fix-and-flips a year, where he offered to take out the trash and sweep floors just to be near people doing what he wanted to learn. That instinct became his defining philosophy: donate your time, do the harder right, and put yourself around people smarter than you.
Learning the investment side first gave him an unusual foundation — about 175 transactions by his second year — before he layered on traditional sales, his own fix-and-flips, and years of housing policy work with DMAR and Denver's planning board, where he shadowed a mentor silently for a year before eventually chairing the committee himself.
In this episode, Andrew opens up about the confidence he had to learn deal by deal, why he prefers a boring business plan that simply works, the "sleep quotient" question he asks every buyer, his December ritual of writing one-, five-, and ten-year plans, and his pragmatic read on where Denver's market is headed. He also talks candidly about balance and raising two kids — and the single trait he'd pass on to them if he could: a sense of humor, because life is hard and you don't get through it without one.
And Andrew's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Treasure Davis's story is one of grit, faith, and a fierce, unapologetic love for the people she's been called to walk alongside. The oldest of five, she grew up between Kansas City and Southern California — on a lake where kids drove pontoon boats to each other's houses, selling apples out of her grandparents' orchard and riding along with her dad, an insurance man and marketer, as he knocked doors. She graduated high school with a nursing certificate, then discovered in practice that nursing wasn't hers to do.
A summer trip to visit her parents in Salida changed everything when she met her husband at seventeen. What followed was a restaurant job, a dental office, and the realization that she could not live with a ceiling over her — which led her, improbably, to five years on the administrative side of a male correctional facility. It's where she was standing when 9/11 happened, and where she led an effort that raised over $60,000 for fallen firefighters and their families. Her time there ended when recurring dreams of delivering her baby behind those walls gave way to real preterm labor; her daughter Serenity spent five weeks in intensive care while Treasure lived at the Ronald McDonald House. Serenity is 23 today and studying to become a dentist.
The move to Colorado Springs came with no safety net — no state jobs, no insurance, no retirement, and a real estate career she inherited from a father-in-law whose entire database lived in his head. Her brokers gave her three pieces of advice: never let go of a lead, never assume you know someone's financial ability, and outwork everybody. Twenty-one years later, she's built a career on exactly that, and on a deep commitment to military families — believing, as she says, that spouses are as much veterans as the service members themselves.
In this episode, Treasure opens up about her health and wellness journey, the friends who lift her chin back up, why failure is worth keeping, and what she found when she reached the top: noise and emptiness. What matters to her isn't the numbers or the accolades. It's her family — her two daughters, and the son she lost, whom she speaks about openly so that other families know there is no shame in it. It's an honest, moving reminder that you can't skip the chapter, and that comparison is the thief of joy.
And Treasure's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Brandi Wolff's story is one of reinvention, intuition, and a deep belief that the right things find us at the right time. The founder of the Aster Lane Group at Guide Real Estate grew up in the foothills of Golden — a free-range 80s and 90s kid who built forts in the forest and found her voice on stage. Taught to sing by her grandmother, she performed in front of 600 people at age four (and famously insisted on holding the microphone), went on to play Belle in Beauty and the Beast at eleven, attended Colorado Academy, and earned a spot in USC's musical theater program, where Jason Alexander once taught her.
When the audition grind lost its joy and she graduated straight into the 2007 recession, Brandi began a long search for purpose. A linen-rental job in Beverly Hills became a sales role in Santa Barbara, where a deeply shy young woman grew a client base tenfold and discovered her core truth: it was never about selling a product, but about genuinely connecting with people. That entrepreneurial spark led her to freelance and ghostwriting work — bylines she'll never be able to claim in Inc., Forbes, and beyond — until relentless 24/7 work in San Francisco burned her out and brought her home to Colorado.
Recovering from surgery in 2017, Brandi took her father's suggestion to try real estate, and everything clicked. More than 100 homes later, she measures success not by her biggest sale but by the modest one that helped a man rebuild his life after the recession. Now she's stepping into development — the same arena her father, once dubbed the "Big Bad Wolf" for a hard-fought Crested Butte project, pioneered over a 40-year career.
In this episode, Brandi opens up about losing the performer identity that defined her, learning not to compare herself to anyone, and a mindset rooted in asking better questions, zooming out, and surrendering to what's meant to be. Her closing wisdom is the kind that stays with you: no one has it easy, struggle is part of the path, and the goal is to move through it without becoming the villain in your own head.
And Brandi's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Maddi Abercrombie's story is one of grit, reinvention, and the kind of genuine heart you can't fake. A fellow Green Mountain grad now with the Monarch Group at Compass, Maddie grew up the oldest of three in Lakewood, with athletics as her entire identity — basketball, volleyball, and especially lacrosse, the sport that turned a passive kid into someone with a voice. With a devoted dad emailing college coaches and piecing together highlight tapes, she earned her way to Division II lacrosse at Lindenwood University in Missouri, reaching the Final Four three of her four years.
Graduation brought an identity crisis and a sports-management degree that led to internships with the Nuggets, Avalanche, and Rams — none of which she loved. So at 23, encouraged by her dad to learn from relatives already thriving in real estate, she got her license, moved into her parents' basement, and bet on herself. The start was slow: nine months to her first deal and six more to her second, before deals two through eleven arrived in one spring market. A managing broker pushed her to call all 300 people she knew, and a generous mentor named Allie shared the business honestly — lessons that built the sphere she still leans on today.
For years, Maddi also coached girls lacrosse at Green Mountain, leading the program to its first state championship while building her business in overdrive every spring. In 2022 she joined the Monarch Group — a collaborative team full of high-producing moms — and in April 2025 she and her husband, Andrew, welcomed their daughter, Maeve.
In this episode, Maddi opens up about losing the athlete identity that defined her, the slow grind of her early years, the sacrifice of high school coaching, and the humbling, beautiful work of being a mom and a top agent at the same time. She shares why she's learning to say no, to relinquish control, and to let the world see that she doesn't have to be perfect. Above all, it's a conversation about dreaming big — and knowing there's always someone there to catch you.
And Maddi's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Jamie Bearden's story is one of reinvention, resilience, and the kind of warmth you can feel the moment you meet her. The Chief Operating Officer of the New Era Group at Your Castle grew up in Holland, Michigan — a self-described feral, curious kid, the youngest of three girls, who once dreamed of moving to Hollywood to act. When that didn't pan out, a summer helping at her aunt's dental office turned into nearly twenty years as an orthodontic assistant.
But the defining turn came early and hard. Jamie lost her husband when she was just 22 — a Colorado native and devoted Elway fan whose dream had always been to live in Denver. So, she packed everything into an unreliable car, gave herself six months, and moved west to live that dream on his behalf. She fell in love with the city, and instead of remaining the woman everyone back home defined by her loss, she treated Colorado as a blank canvas — joining every team she could find and building the close-knit circle she still calls her "Denver family."
Years later, worn down by a punishing DTC commute, Jamie took a friend's suggestion to try real estate, with her now-husband encouraging her to find her passion while he held things steady. She went back into a classroom around 2017, felt like a beginner all over again, and simply showed up every day — focusing on open houses and supporting her team, becoming a trusted go-to for agent Drew Morris, buying her first car in cash, and earning Rookie of the Year.
In this episode, Jamie opens up about grief and starting over, the husband who became her biggest cheerleader, why she believes new agents should treat the office like a job, and the mindset that carries her through the hard days. It's an honest, uplifting conversation about creating a life rather than just a living — and staying optimistic without ever losing sight of what's real.
And Jamie's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Jeff Plous's story is one of curiosity, craftsmanship, and an unshakable refusal to take "no" for an answer. The broker-owner of Hatch Realty grew up in downtown Chicago — a self-described nerd who carried a briefcase instead of a backpack, rebuilt cars with his dad, and built model homes out of balsa wood because he loved making something out of nothing. From his father, a charismatic entrepreneur who once finagled his way into a Vespa dealership at thirteen, he inherited creativity and fearlessness. From his grandfather and his mother — a teacher who spent decades serving kids in Chicago's inner city — he inherited discipline and a relentless work ethic.
A move to CU Boulder gave Jeff both his lifelong friends and his direction, and he graduated into real estate just as the market began to collapse. His first job at Centex Homes was a sales center no one ever visited, but instead of waiting it out, he taught himself Photoshop and marketing and went looking for ways to solve the problem himself. That instinct became his calling card — building a niche selling "the unsellable" across Northwest Denver, most memorably moving four long-stalled townhomes for the late, legendary Paul Stan in just four months, on no marketing budget.
That success launched him into development. After staying up all night reading the city's new zoning code and teaching himself design software, he sketched a concept no one believed could work, identified the land, signed over his entire bank account, and bet on himself. Around 40 doors later, Jeff has spent more than a decade among Denver's top agents — building Hatch around a simple premise: not how to sell more homes, but how to serve clients better.
In this episode, Jeff opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the integrity that drives him to build things he can be proud of, and the honest struggle to find work-life balance while raising two kids with his wife, Lindsay. He shares the gut-punch of his nine-year-old telling him he's always on his phone, his "every day is Tuesday" philosophy, and his take on where Denver's market needs to go next. Above all, it's a conversation about staying curious, seeing behind the curtain, and never doing anything halfway.
And Jeff's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Rachel Gallegos's story is one of grit, vision, and the quiet confidence of someone who has always been willing to bet on herself. The youngest of seven, she grew up in Salt Lake City with a single mother who worked three jobs to keep the family afloat — and a grandmother in Grand Junction who, decades ahead of her time, ran rental properties, storage units, and a beauty salon on her own broker's license. From the age of five, Rachel knew she wanted to build something of her own.
She earned everything early. A first paycheck at twelve, and before that a door-to-door operation selling homemade cookies and caramels for spending money. That work ethic carried her to becoming the first in her family to graduate college, then into a corporate banking job where she quickly hit a ceiling she had no intention of living under. On maternity leave with her first daughter, she got her real estate license — and one week after giving birth to her second in 2008, she was already showing foreclosures to investors.
Starting her career in a down market became Rachel's greatest advantage. Some of her biggest years came during the crash, and that proved to her she could succeed in any market. She set her sights on new development and on Northwest Denver before the rest of the city caught on, watching a neighborhood she believed in become exactly what she'd envisioned.
In this episode, Rachel opens up about juggling motherhood and a demanding career from day one, the discipline of a 4:30 a.m. morning routine, why she finds joy in helping shape the actual fabric of Denver rather than chasing one transaction at a time, and her honest take on where the city has been and where it's headed. With both daughters now off at college — Isabella at CU and Olivia heading to Oregon — she's asking herself a question she's put off for years: what does SHE want?
At her core, Rachel is a lifelong learner and a believer in collaboration — someone who measures success not just in deals closed, but in doing it the right way alongside good people. It's an honest, energizing look at a woman who built a thriving business from the ground up and is just getting started on her next chapter.
And Rachel's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Carlos Escobar's story is one of sacrifice, grit, and a son's gratitude that runs all the way down to the bone. Born in El Salvador and brought to Colorado at the age of five, Carlos was raised by a single mother who crossed three borders — fleeing a civil war — so her boy could have a shot at something more. The things he saw as a child were heavy, and the woman who shielded him from them became the foundation for everything he's built.
Carlos grew up quickly. By five he was translating for his mom; by thirteen he was working full-time at the family Mexican restaurant where she spent 35 years. At eighteen, instead of spending a small settlement, he used it to help her buy her first home — and discovered a love for the real estate process that would set the course for his career. The path wasn't a straight line: a short run at Metro, six years in mortgages, then a front-row seat to the 2008 collapse before he went all in on real estate and built a business one relationship at a time.
He frames his life in chapters — the early grind, marriage and three children through IVF, and now a third chapter of rebuilding after two divorces that tested him. In this episode, Carlos opens up about learning to be a father with no blueprint, what his oldest daughter saw from the backseat of his car during the hardest years, and his mission to teach the Hispanic community to move beyond that first home and build real wealth through real estate.
At his core, Carlos is defined by his why: his mother and his children. He'll tell you his work ethic is his superpower, but the thread running through his whole story is simpler — so many people helped him get here, and now he just wants to help others. It's an honest, eye-opening look at where we come from and what we owe the people who carried us.
And Carlos's story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this week’s episode of Mindset Matters, I sat down with my friend Kristy Lee of the Ceretto Group at Coldwell Banker — a proud Colorado native whose story is equal parts courage, curiosity, and reinvention.
Kristy grew up in Arvada - a rollerblading, bike‑riding tomboy who didn’t care much for dolls but loved the freedom of being outside. She went from dreaming of being a pizza maker at age ten to traveling through Europe after college, then finding her footing as a floral designer, and eventually spending 15 years in property management - helping people find homes while quietly losing joy in the increasing weight of that work.
By the time she married her husband, James, and welcomed their son, Parker, the career that once felt secure had become heavy. So she did something few people have the courage to do in their mid‑thirties - she walked away from stability to start over. With a one‑year‑old at home, no health insurance, and money pulled from their house to fund year one, Kristy jumped headfirst into real estate with nothing but her determination and a deep belief that failure was not an option.
Those early days were pure hustle - door knocking with Parker in a stroller, creating videos with him in the frame, and grinding through the uncertainty that comes with a business built from scratch. Today, Kristy is thriving — helping families find home across Colorado, traveling the world with James and Parker (including every Disney park she can reach), and yes — about to finally get her pink Bronco.
In this conversation, we talk about the mindset behind that leap: the difference between “needing it to work” and making it work, the power of loving a state and community so much that you build your life and business around it, and the freedom that comes with designing a career on your own terms.
Kristy’s story is the reminder so many of us need: that starting over isn’t failure, it’s faith — and sometimes the best plan is the one without a backup.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this week's episode of Mindset Matters, I was joined by my friend Patrick Laurienti, one of the most intentional people I know and the founder and team lead of The LHT Group here in Denver.
Patrick’s story starts in Watkins, Colorado - a small country town where he spent his early years running through open fields, chasing wild horses, and testing every boundary within sight. Rambunctious, curious, and full of energy, he was the kind of kid who couldn’t sit still for long.
By high school, Patrick already knew he wasn’t headed to college. He wanted to build something by either working his way up through a company or creating his own. That mindset was rare among his peers, and especially powerful considering his roots. Raised by a single mom after his parents’ divorce, he watched her navigate financial instability and tough seasons that left a mark on him. As Patrick puts it, “Life shouldn’t have a price tag.” That belief drives everything he does: if someone else can do it, so can he.
At just 19, he got his real estate license, but it took eight long months to sell his first house. At one point, he told his girlfriend (now wife) he was quitting to try network marketing, and she challenged him to at least sell one house before walking away. He did — and never looked back.
Over the next decade, Patrick built a thriving business from scratch. He weathered the hard years, learned the art of consistency, and turned optimism into action. Along the way, he married his high school sweetheart, became a father to three beautiful kids (now 3, 5, and 7), and learned that growth doesn’t mean sacrificing what matters most.
We talk about that evolution - what it means to build a seven-figure business while being intentional about family, fatherhood, and faith. Patrick shares how ambition can be both a blessing and a burden, how his constant drive once led to burnout, and how he’s learned the real power of saying no.
Today, Patrick runs The LHT Group, coaches other agents, and leads with the same belief that’s guided him since he was a kid chasing wild horses: anything is possible. His current goals include building a seven-figure real estate business, hiring his first full-time support to scale sustainably, and laying the foundation for a long-term vision - a “fantasy factory”–style property where he can host team retreats, coaching events, and create a place that inspires others to dream as big as he does.
At the heart of it all, Patrick’s story is about clarity — cutting distractions, leading with curiosity, and being fully present for the people who matter most.
Patrick, thank you for sharing your mindset, your lessons, and your light with all of us.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Every now and then, a conversation reminds you just how far mindset can take a person — and this week’s episode with Chelsea Steen of Your Castle Real Estate does just that.
Chelsea grew up in Marion, Ohio, a small-town kid with a loud laugh, a rebellious streak, and an untamable sense of independence. Her childhood was shaped by the kind of freedom that bred both curiosity and grit. She spent her days exploring the woods, breaking the rules, and falling in love with sports - basketball, soccer, even a stint in tackle football.
At just 11, Chelsea was hit by a car and told she might never walk again. Six months later, she was back on the field, a defining lesson in resilience that would follow her for the rest of her life.
That fire carried her through Catholic school uniforms she hated, top grades she earned anyway, and eventually to Case Western Reserve University. At 20, she stepped into entrepreneurship, running a college painting franchise that would make her the top-producing female in the company’s U.S. history by graduation.
She built her own real estate business from there, learned the hard lessons of leadership (including a few early “boss mistakes”), and achieved the kind of success that most would call enough. But after years of chasing goals, Chelsea and her wife made a life-changing decision: to sell almost everything and spend ten months traveling the world together. That was a reset that gave her space to breathe, reflect, and rediscover who she wanted to be outside of career and achievement.
Today at Your Castle, Chelsea continues to blend her competitive energy with compassion, helping clients make confident moves while staying anchored in what truly matters.
Her story is wild, wise, and full of lessons: that perfectionism softens with wisdom, that leadership starts with self-awareness, and that sometimes, slowing down is the power move that changes everything.
Chelsea, thank you for sharing your story, your honesty, and your mindset with me.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
As we launch the 4th season of Mindset Maters, I was thrilled to sit down with my friend Kendra Lanterman of West+Main Homes - a born-and-raised Arvada native who has been in the real estate industry since she was 16 years old. Kendra got her start answering phones at her Nana Jane's brokerage, and by 17, she knew there was no turning back. 24 years later, she's still doing what she loves - and she's doing it with a level of integrity that the industry desperately needs more of.
Having bought her first home in 2005 and facing the challenges of potential foreclosure in 2008 - all while pregnant with her first child – Kendra learned firsthand how a 2 year home can become a 10 year one, how to prepare for moments when things do not go as planned, and how she can use so many of the lessons she has learned along the years to help her show up for her clients.
As you’ll hear, it’s clear how serious Kendra takes her responsibilities to her family and her clients as we talked about balancing motherhood with a commission-only career, building her business around her family instead of the other way around, and why she's talked herself out of more deals than most agents would admit to - because it simply wasn't the right move for her clients.
If you've ever felt like the real estate or mortgage industry is more focused on the transaction than the person - this episode is for you. Kendra is the kind of professional who roots for you whether you're her client, her colleague, or a complete stranger. Tune in, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and as always… Mindset Matters.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
David Williams grew up in Bath, England, in a family where weekends were defined by rugby pitches, squash courts, and long days at school followed by even longer evenings of sport. That early love of team environments carried him across the Atlantic to Boston and Vermont, into graduate school, elite ski academies, the AHL, and eventually onto the pitch with the U.S. national rugby team, running out in front of 40,000+ fans in Hong Kong.
From there, his role evolved from player to strength and conditioning coach to national team staff — helping prepare the U.S. squad for a Rugby World Cup, building systems, and pushing athletes to their limits. And then, like so many of us, he hit a crossroads and walked away from the only world he’d ever really known.
Today, David has built a second career in commercial real estate across Colorado — office, industrial, land, investment — bringing the same team-first mindset into boardrooms, site tours, and negotiations. He’s honest about what he misses from sport, what he doesn’t romanticize, and why he’ll always choose values and long-term relationships over chasing the biggest check.
At the heart of this conversation is something simple and rare: the power of having real friends, real conversations, and a real support system while you reinvent yourself — and why being a “good bloke” and maybe even a G.C. still matters more than any title.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Christina Ray’s story is one of grit, faith, and fearless reinvention. Raised on an Air Force base in North Dakota, she grew up surrounded by discipline, loyalty, and community—watching her dad build a military career and her mom dedicate 25 years to Lockheed Martin. Those early lessons carried her from small-town life to Colorado, where she found herself navigating college, chasing purpose, and eventually stumbling into a career in property management.
What started as a leasing job turned into a decade-long climb through every level of the business, all the way to regional director. She met her husband there, learned how to lead people, and discovered just how much she loved helping others find “home.” But everything changed the day she got a call from daycare saying her daughter was sick—and her boss asked, “What’s your plan B?” That moment pushed her to create one of her own.
Eight months pregnant with her second child, Christina decided it was time to bet on herself. She got licensed, joined Live Laugh Denver, and never looked back. Over nine years, she’s built a thriving real estate career while raising two daughters, setting boundaries that protect both her business and her family. Her mindset—rooted in faith, gratitude, and abundance—has carried her through markets that tested even the best agents.
In this episode, Christina shares what it really takes to balance ambition and motherhood, how she’s teaching her daughters the power of hard work, and why she believes success means never having to tell your kids “we can’t afford that dream.” It’s an honest, heartfelt look at a woman who’s built her life around service, family, and the kind of perseverance that can’t be faked.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
This week on Mindset Matters I sat down with my friend and fellow Green Mountain grad, Mikelle Adkins Smith of Keller Williams Advantage.
Mikelle grew up an only child who loved books and writing, with a very straightforward plan: become an attorney, make the grades, do the work, check the boxes. She got into DU, worked 40 hours a week while carrying a full class load, and stayed locked in on that path… until real estate and the title world showed her two things at once:
- She could make more money, faster, without going hundreds of thousands into debt.
- She could actually build a life she wanted, not just a résumé that looked good.
From there, her story takes a lot of turns - leaving the law-school dream behind and jumping into title, burning out during the refi boom, meeting her now-husband Brian and, within six months, watching him buy a struggling franchise while she quit her stable job and they got married, and eventually her decision to enter real estate and build a life and business simultaneously.
We get into motherhood, too. Having kids during the 2007–08 mess, choosing to be home as much as she could while still selling, and how having three boys (now 18, 16, and 13) completely reframed how she talks to clients about homeownership.
And then there’s hockey.
A random flyer in a kindergarten Friday folder led to roller hockey at Skate City… then ice hockey… and now all three boys are all-in. They shoot pucks every day without being asked, they study film, they battle each other in the driveway, and they make choices most grown adults won’t make to protect their opportunities. Mikelle and Brian don’t try to be their coaches - they just ask good questions, keep them grounded, and let the work ethic be theirs.
What stuck with me most, though, was this:
Mikelle will tell you she’s guarded, that she keeps a small circle because of some of what she lived through growing up. But if you listen to how she talks about her boys, her clients, and even the kids they play with, you can hear the truth - she’s got a massive heart, and her sons have inherited it. They care, they stick up for people, and they don’t let past hurts decide how they show up.
If you’re in real estate, a parent, or just someone trying to figure out how to chase big goals without losing your mind or your family in the process, this episode is worth your time.
And Mikelle's story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
This week on Mindset Matters I got to sit down with my friend and straight shooter,Sasha Smothers of Keller Williams Advantage in Lakewood. If you’ve ever felt like you were “the quiet kid” who didn’t quite know where you fit, or if you’ve been staring at this housing market wondering what’s real and what’s just noise, this episode is going to land.
Sasha grew up outside of Boston as an introverted, sometimes overlooked gymnast - the kid who didn’t always feel worthy of speaking up. She was raised by entrepreneurial parents in mortgages and real estate, watched them build businesses and still show up for every important moment, and somewhere along the way picked up an early belief that her voice might not matter as much as everyone else’s.
Fast forward - she moves to Denver on a 24-hour decision, survives a pandemic in a brand new city, hires a coach, does the hard inner work, and slowly starts to rebuild her identity. While this massive change is taking place, she meets her now-husband and stepdaughter at the apartment pool, falls in love with both of them, and over time steps fully into what she was built for - helping people navigate one of the most complicated housing and financial environments we’ve ever lived through.
What I admire about Sasha is simple - she tells the truth, even when it isn’t trendy and she’s not afraid to talk about the uncomfortable parts of our financial system that most “professionals” ignore because it doesn’t fit on a postcard.
During our conversation we talked about her journey from introverted gymnast to confident, outspoken agent, the mindset work that helped her finally see her own worth, how she and her husband think about money, control systems, and what might really be coming next, and why she believes community, curiosity, and questioning the mainstream narrative might be the only way we get through this together.
Her story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Stephen Berg’s journey reads like a crash course in perseverance. Growing up in Evergreen, CO, with a pilot father, his childhood was shaped by curiosity, travel, and an early fascination with aviation. After 9/11, that dream dissolved — both because of his opposition to the war and witnessing his father lose his pension when United Airlines filed bankruptcy. The experience planted two lifelong seeds: distrust in corporate systems and an obsession with independence.
He tried it all - flipping houses, running a wine department, even becoming a certified sommelier and assistant winemaker in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. But when the financial fallout from a mold-ridden home and a costly lawsuit left him nearly bankrupt, Berg rebuilt again. This time, back home in Denver, as a real estate agent.
With a newborn, another on the way, $80K in debt, and his family living in one bedroom at his in-laws’, Stephen started from zero and within two years was the Denver Metro Association of Realtors (DMAR) Rookie of the Year, discovering that the only real limits were the ones he’d been placing on himself.
Our conversation covered a lot of ground - from the danger of comparing your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty, to how punk rock, science, and critical thinking can shape a career and a worldview. We also dove into why structure and patience are underrated superpowers in an unpredictable industry and how fatherhood reframed his idea of success — not just as freedom of income, but freedom of time.
By the end, Stephen’s story becomes less about selling homes and more about how to build a life — one defined by adaptability, curiosity, and conviction.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this week’s episode of Mindset Matters I had the honor of sitting down with my friend and absolute pro, Jessica Lentz of eXp, Colorado native who turned hard seasons into repeatable excellence. Jessica grew up in Littleton (Columbine class of 2000), walked through more loss and challenges by nineteen than many see in a lifetime, and somehow found a way to raise a family, build a life and grow one of the more impressive real estate businesses in all of Denver.
At one point in her life a teenage mother both working and studying full time, Jessica earned a biology and nuclear medicine degree, moved to Seattle for a rare program, and still somehow found the energy to read her son biology textbooks at bedtime.
And when life pivoted, she pivoted. A severance check and six weeks later, she took a shot at real estate with zero expectations and a very un-Instagram start: FSBO, HUD, messy buy-sell—trial by fire from day one. What followed is the part I want every agent and entrepreneur to hear: Jessica built a durable business on three FOCUSED hours a day. No frantic “always on,” no “I meditate about my ice bath” monologue - just clear boundaries, fast communication, and a bias for service over spectacle.
Not to say she didn’t work outside those hours, but those three hours have become the foundation on which everything in her business has been built.
Jessica has a clear understanding of what she wants and what her expectations are. From playing offense with clients (set expectations so emotions don’t run the show), to refusing to tie your identity to a paycheck, to why doing one deal a month is a legitimate business that doesn’t require you to sell your soul.
We also get into the good stuff: raising great kids (shoutout to Collin taking his real estate exam the day before Thanksgiving to match mom’s milestone, and Hayden patrolling center field), leaving railroad life for a healthier family rhythm, travel, concerts, sunshine, and yes - logging miles on a treadmill to the Eras Tour.
Jessica’s story is proof that consistency beats chaos, boundaries beat burnout, and a servant’s heart beats slick tactics - every time.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this week’s episode of Mindset Matters…
Jason Dalbey has the kind of story that reminds you growth doesn’t happen in straight lines - it happens in leaps, pivots, and a few well-timed faceplants that teach you what really matters.
A self-described “awkward, lanky kid” who learned to adapt through constant moves across the country, Jason discovered early on that being genuine was the quickest way to build connection. That same authenticity is what defines him now as the founder and team lead of The Denver Group at Compass, a real estate team built on integrity, collaboration, and actual value - not ego.
After grinding through corporate sales, surviving a failed business attempt around the 2008 collapse, and later house-hacking a Congress Park triplex with his wife Meg, Jason found his lane in real estate and never looked back. What he built since isn’t just a successful team - it’s a culture that reinvests in people first, values presence over production, and focuses on selling Denver, not himself.
A husband, a dad to three amazing kids, and a self-proclaimed LEGO therapist, Jason is refreshingly honest about leadership, burnout, and balance. He’s proof that ambition doesn’t have to come at the expense of family, and that “always happy, never satisfied” might be the healthiest mindset in the room.
His story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In today's episode of Mindset Matters we changed it up a little bit and I sat down with two men that I very much look up to.
Sergio Nazarro was $1m+ per year producing real estate agent when he realized that what he was building professionally was simultaneously tearing his personal life and marriage apart. So... instead of ignoring the problem and hoping "success" would solve it all - he made a massive pivot, leaving real estate entirely and entering the world of coaching. Now a few years into his new journey, Sergio has found his calling by helping men find their strength within themselves and their marriages.
Lewi Gault may not have torn his personal life down - but after rapidly building a substantial real estate business, he realized that everything he was working towards was in the opposite direction of the life he wanted to create. In an industry obsessed with terms like grind and non-stop - Lewi decided he could accomplish more by helping people in a similar situation to recognize what is most important to them rather than what they're told is most important by an industry bent on production.
In this episode we have a great conversation about life, marriage, family, operating a business, and what success really looks like.
That starts...now.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Andre Whitt is the fun-natured, down-to-earth type you can tell early on takes things in stride. Having been in the real estate game for years, he’s experienced it all — operating his own brokerage (twice), navigating market shifts, and managing both the hot stretches of non-stop work and the cool stretches of regrouping.
A husband and father of two, Andre's journey as a man has been shaped by his understanding of what he wants for his family, for himself, and for the people he surrounds himself with. In a world that struggles to define the word “enough,” he at least has a sense of what that means to him and works very intentionally toward its accomplishment.
An avid golfer and a natural content creator, Andre’s work has evolved into a lifestyle that fits him and allows him to show up for people in a way that matters. Whether he’s discussing the market on the 9th green or shooting a video that entertains and educates, if it’s good energy and positive vibes — Andre is all about it.
His story… starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Taylor Bunney has long been the person who is going to care, who is going to find a way, who is going to put more into a challenge than even she will give herself credit for. A Colorado native, she was both the kid that wanted to please and to be helpful, and one who realized early on that hard work and determination would take her just about anywhere she wanted to go.
A highly -skilled realtor at eXp, Taylor takes a tremendous amount of pride in how she represents her clients and how she shows up for them. Compassionate and understanding, tenacious and blunt (in the best way possible), as she is described by her colleagues, Taylor's natural tendency to put her all into something has lead to becoming a repeat Icon agent with the company and a loyal client base that love working with her.
A nurturing spirit to the core, it is no surprise that Taylor derives the most joy in her life from being a mother to her son Drake and the relationship they have forged. She is also not the the type to shy from the truth, and her acknowledgement of where she finds lessons, faults and growth in herself as a parent and professional are as real and genuine as they get. As she shares her story, it's impossible not to hear how heavy the responsibilities she places on herself can be - and how much pride she takes in holding it.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Few people are as immediately likeable as Lewi Gault - and it only gets better from there. On today's episode of Mindset Matters, I had the good fortune of sitting down with my friend and colleague, and to hear his journey as a young man who grew up in Scotland found his way to Denver, met the love of his life and started a family, and eventually reached such levels of success in real estate that he felt like... a failure.
Now, not a failure in the "I am not good at this" sense, - rather he was so good at his craft that it consumed him and left many of life's most important elements in it's wake. Time to be a loving husband - limited, to say the least. Time to be a present father - nope. Time to enjoy all the benefits his business had reaped upon him - not even a little bit.
Then one day, while discussing travel plans that a family friend was preparing - Lewi's wife, Mackenzie, said something life changing - "we're never going to have that." All the success, all the accolades, and all the money, and they would never have the time and ability to enjoy it. That conversation became a catalyst for Lewi, who went through the challenging process of recalibrating his life and what is most important to him - reprioritizing everything - until what mattered came first.
Now in a business where people are told they have to "always be on," Lewi has proven that not only is that not the case, you can THRIVE with boundaries. You can control your time, energy and production, and you can have the life AND business you want.
This incredible journey and more was shared by the man himself, and starts now...
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In this episode of Mindset Matters, I sit down with Adam Gillespie—a former rock musician turned no-nonsense Denver realtor and the co-founder of Apex Elite AI, one of the fastest-growing AI training communities for real estate professionals in the country.
We dive into Adam’s wild ride:
🎸 From winning “Best Band in Denver” to building a thriving real estate business with eXp Realty
🏡 How he carved a niche by blending street-smart sales with systems thinking
🤖 And why he’s now leading the charge to teach realtors how to harness AI—without sounding like robots.
This conversation is packed with:
- Tactical advice on integrating ChatGPT, custom CRMs, and AI tools in real estate
- Honest reflections on burnout, rebuilding, and staying relevant in a shifting market
- A deep look at how mindset + tech = unstoppable momentum
Whether you're an agent looking to sharpen your edge, a business owner exploring AI, or someone just trying to stay ahead of the curve—you’ll walk away fired up and full of practical takeaways.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Today we sit down with two incredible women I respect on every level — Jenny & Angelica Apel, a mother & daughter combination whose bond extends beyond personal and professional achievements and a life grounded in faith and family. Together, they’re a powerhouse real estate duo with Nostalgic Homes at Compass, and if you’ve spent any time in the Highlands, you already know their names.
But what you may not know is the full story behind the signs and the sold stickers.
As you'll hear - Jenny is a survivor — and not just of the real estate rollercoaster. Diagnosed with cancer when Angelica was a small child, the importance of motherhood and their connection was forever impacted by the challenges they overcame together in those earliest days. This family has stared down some heavy chapters… and chose to meet them with faith, grace, and the kind of strength that’s hard to put into words.
Angelica grew up in that storm — and somehow turned it into sunshine. Today, she and her husband Paul are the parents of two beautiful children, and she and Jenny don’t just sell homes, they build relationships, they lead with heart, and they’re raising the next generation right in the middle of it. Watching them both light up when they talk about Angelica’s kids… that’s legacy in real time.
This episode is about real estate, yes. But it’s also about survival. About showing up. About what it means to raise a family while fighting for your life — and still choosing to give love to the people around you.
I’m proud of this one. Proud of them. And honored to help share their story.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
This week on Mindset Matters, I sit down with my good friend and Boulder native, Colin Dart — a standout realtor at milehimodern, genuinely a world traveler, and easily one of the sharpest-dressed humans you’ll ever meet. But beyond the wardrobe and real estate accolades is a man of rare integrity, intentionality, and depth.
Colin is the kind of person who approaches his work not just as a job, but as a true craft. His clients aren’t transactions — they’re relationships, responsibilities, and in many ways, reflections of how seriously he takes the impact he can have in someone’s life. We talk about what it means to show up every day with purpose, the lessons that only come from failing forward, and how to stay grounded in a world that loves to pull you in a thousand directions.
We also talk about his partner in life and magic, Virginia Dart — a gifted Colombian-born singer and recording artist whose heart is as massive as her talent. The way Colin and Virginia support each other through two incredibly demanding, creative careers is something we can all learn from. If you're in pursuit of excellence, balance, or just want to hear from someone who’s doing it right, this episode will leave you thinking — and maybe even rethinking — how you show up in your own world.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
This week on Mindset Matters, I sit down with Lauren Vollono of Liv Sotheby's here in Denver — a woman whose story hits hard, inspires big, and reminds us that it’s never too late to change your life.
Lauren spent over a decade in speech pathology, helping others find their voice in places like Long Island, Santa Barbara, and New York City. But after reaching a point of career burnout, coupled with a move to Denver that didn’t exactly start out as a dream, she found herself in unfamiliar territory — unsure, stuck, and deeply questioning her path. What came next was a turning point most people only fantasize about.
Lauren didn’t just pivot careers — she lit it on fire. She studied her way into real estate and launched herself into a new chapter with relentless drive and genuine heart. Within just a few years, she’s become one of Denver’s top-producing agents, earned a seat at LIV Sotheby’s, and carved out a niche in both resale and new development real estate.
But this conversation isn’t just about sales or brokerages. It’s about resilience. It’s about the mental toll of starting over, the courage to try something new, and the quiet power of believing in yourself when nobody else has the answers. This is one of the realest conversations I’ve had on Mindset Matters, and Lauren brings it with raw honesty, grit, and the kind of authenticity that reminds you why this stuff matters in the first place.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In this powerful episode of Mindset Matters, I sat down with Olivia Kunevicius of milehimodern — a true embodiment of resilience, compassion, and purpose-driven living.
Olivia's journey has taken her a childhood growing up near Cleveland Ohio, across multiple states and adventures, before she found her true home in Denver and her passion in real estate. But her story doesn't stop there. After the tragic loss of her beloved sister, Jessica, Olivia transformed her grief into action. Witnessing firsthand the extraordinary care provided by healthcare workers during her sister’s most difficult moments, Olivia knew she had to give back.
Fueled by gratitude and a drive to make a difference, Olivia founded the MedicalPRO Home program — a groundbreaking initiative designed to support medical professionals on their path to homeownership. From zero down payment options to closing cost credits and even five hours of free childcare during property showings, Olivia’s mission is clear: to honor those who dedicate their lives to healing others.
Tune in to hear how Olivia turned personal tragedy into a movement of generosity, how she navigated major life transitions with resilience, and why she believes that giving back is the most powerful mindset of all.
This one’s got heart, grit, and some serious inspiration. Don’t miss it.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
This episode of Mindset Matters is one that will stay with me for a long time.
I sat down with Tab Tobias—a founding member of The Monarch Group at Compass Denver, a badass REALTOR, a loving wife, a proud mom to a two-year-old son… and a woman who has walked through hell and come out with her heart still wide open.
Tab has been sober for 18 years. In this conversation, she takes us into the raw, unfiltered truth of her battle with alcoholism—what it felt like at her lowest, what it meant to surrender to the work of recovery, and how it feels now to sponsor others through their own healing.
She shares the moments that broke her, the community that helped rebuild her, and the personal growth that continues to shape her into the friend, mother, and professional she is today.
But let me be clear: this is not a story of pity—it’s a story of power. It’s also a reminder that being a total badass and being soft-hearted can absolutely coexist.
Tab is one of the most genuine, caring, and hilarious people I’ve ever met. Her sense of humor, her brutal honesty, and her elite-level cussing would make any sailor proud—including this one. And her love for her family? That’s the soul of her story.
This is more than a conversation. It’s a gift. If you’ve ever struggled—or if you love someone who has—you’ll find something in this episode that hits home.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Wynne — a rapidly growing Realtor with Compass in Denver whose entrepreneurial spirit and relentless drive have shaped not just one, but two impressive careers. Before building a thriving real estate business in Colorado, Lisa launched a successful marketing company in San Diego, initially finding her niche in helping bars and restaurants stand out in a competitive market. That venture would eventually expand to Washington, landing high-profile clients including the Washington Commanders.
Now, she brings that same creativity, grit, and strategic vision to real estate — and the results speak for themselves.
But behind the ambition is something even more compelling: Lisa is also a deeply dedicated mother to a 16-year-old son who remains at the center of her world. Their bond, shaped by her own life experiences, is a powerful thread throughout her story.
Tune in for a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and the balancing act of building big while keeping your priorities even bigger.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Nicki Thompson has a natural ability to impact people for the better. From her small town Kansas up bringing where she was one of 5 siblings, to moving to Denver with her Colorado native husband, Ryan, to staring down the challenge of starting a family, raising children, and building a real estate business all at the same time - there has been one common denominator - her desire to serve, help and make an impact on those around her.
On today's episode, Nicki was kind enough to share a bit of her journey, including the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. A woman who thrives on challenge and figuring out the best way forward, she tells of building one of Denver's most accomplished real estate business without leaving out the moments that could have easily broken her down and left her lost. Through it all, you will hear the story of a woman who treasures time outside in deep thought, and who believes that telling people what they need to know will always be better for them than telling them what they want to hear.
Her story, starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Autumn White grew up with an appreciation of the outdoors, of reading, and of the mindfulness and peace of spending time with herself and her thoughts. Growing up in the Boulder Heights community of Boulder, Colorado, she enjoyed the beauty of the mountains while also embracing the unique community of Boulder and the experiences it offered.
Then, just as she was beginning her freshman year of college, Autumn was in a car accident that resulted in four fractured vertebrae. In embracing that this event could have completely changed if not ended her life, she began to question what choices she was making and who those choices were for. Today, she acknowledges that the event was for her greater benefit as it made her live a far more intentional life than she may have otherwise.
In 2017, seeking a new and fulfilling career path, Autumn entered the real estate business and created a faithful group of friends and clients who appreciate her intelligence, her high-level professional abilities, and the fact that her natural empathy and care for people has never once waived. Currently raising a teenage daughter, Autumn has embraced the individualistic experience that life presents, understanding that while she can advise her daughter, a friend, or a client, in the end, it is each person’s life to live, and she will support them through the best and worst of it.
Her story... starts now.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Janell Arant didn't need anyone to tell her to care or that she could create her own path, she just had a natural instinct to be helpful from the earliest ages and a drive to pursue new ideas. From an inherent desire to look out for her family and siblings, to joining her father at flea markets as a teenager where they would sell self-defense products, to recognizing during her college years that she was drawn to and capable of creating a business from scratch - Janell always seemed to have the ability to trust the path and follow her feet. She also had a passion for homes, building them from blocks as a kid and eventually teaching herself CADE so that she could add high levels of details.
When she started a family and began having kids - Janell realized that being with her children as much as possible was priority #1. However, while she would be a "stay-at-home mom," her hustle mode of creation and entrepreneurship came out and at one point she had FOUR jobs. It created a constant tug-a-war that as her children would get older, there was something inside her that was building.
As her children got older and began spending more of their days in school or with friends, she initially dove into appraising in Douglas County, before gaining the clarity that she was best served working for herself and dove headfirst into real estate. Leveraging her experience in marketing, appraising, and her genuine passion for homes, she has quickly found her footing in the industry and has seen her business ever since.
Her story, starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
There is a natural curiosity about Elle Dice that serves her extremely well. From her warm smile and inquisitive spirit, you can right away tell that she is never going through the motions when she asks you a question, rather she is genuinely interested in learning about you and what is important to you. There is never a sense that she is listening for her turn to speak, rather that she embraces the comradery and what she can glean from each conversation.
The curiosity to learn and grow led Elle to begin an exploration of various career and financial opportunities that included a successful endeavor with a network marketing company, and to eventually point her to what has become a rapidly growing real estate business.
A native of Breckenridge, Colorado, Elle also values vulnerability and embracing the journey, which is part of the reason she was kind enough to share some of the hardest and harshest of life lessons and the tough decisions she made to change her path for the better. Along the way, she was empowered by a group of motivated women she connected with, many of whom drawing strength from their Christian faith. It was these lessons that impressed upon and solidified for her the importance of community, of the bigger picture, and of her desire to impact people for the better.
Her story starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Of all the skills in Justin Knolls' arsenal, among the most powerful one you might experience is his ability to put you at ease and make you feel welcomed the moment you encounter him. The pleasant smile, the instant encouragement, and a genuine interest in how things are going for you are clearly important to him. It is clear that cheering for others is a foundational aspect to how he carries himself.
An established coach who got that way from being a dedicated student, Justin grew up in a multi-generational real estate family and truly had the industry in his blood. It was little surprise than that he would eventually dive into the business - and primarily on his own - find high levels of success. What might not have been so expected was how he embraced leadership within his office early on and rapidly learned not only the legality of the ever-changing industry- but also developed the skillset to teach others how to grow their own business.
Now one of the most recognizable names and faces in the Denver market, Justin continues to mentor and coach while also diving into the real estate contract business as a founding member of Get in Contract, or GIC, which is revolutionizing the industry with the ultimate transaction hub for top real estate professionals in Colorado.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Jason Sirois learned from early age to embrace and love the climb, as a young boy growing up in California, climbing trees with little regard for how he would get back down. Through that early lesson, Jason discovered a confidence in his ability as well as an acceptance of risk that has served him throughout his entire life. Whether it was skateboarding, football, or deciding what career field to take on, fear has never played a factor in limiting his possibilities.
A graduate of Fresno State, Jason thought his initial career path might involve medicine, and instead involved medical sales and the tech industry. While he experienced a high level of success in the Bay Area, earning new opportunities along the way, there was something missing, and he knew it was not his forever path. As he turned 30 years old - he sent out what he calls "his life compass" to discover what his next step would be.
So in the final months of 2018 and entering into 2019, Jason packed his belongings and moved to Denver, Colorado - a city that had been on his radar for awhile. There he dove head first into a real estate career that has been one of the fastest rising in the Denver market. He has built a reputation and brand based on knowledge, intelligence, and the importance of client experience. What makes his accomplishments in real estate even more astounding is that he started in a new market, without any type of sphere, and without even knowing much about the city he would be operating in. It is truly a story of climbing from the ground up. Thank you for sharing your story with us, Jason!
His story, starts now...
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
To understand Jim Perry, it's crucial to understand what has always been inherently important to him - brotherhood, accountability and leadership. Raised in Ohio and surrounded by his own brothers, a trip to West Point New York when he was a young man helped shape the direction of his life and in many ways his purpose. Four years after that first trip, Jim would return to West Point, this time as freshmen cadet or "Plebe". From these earliest moments, his natural desire to be a part of something bigger than himself was apparent, and many of the earliest connections he made remain the strongest of brothers to this day.
Today, Jim shares stories of his time at West Point, of forging a life with his wife, and eventually entering civilian life. As life progressed, his path eventually brought him to Denver, Colorado, where he and his wife have continued to forge bounds with their local community. One of those connections presented Jim the opportunity to enter a whole new battleground in the real estate tech space with Get In Contract, a contract software that looks to bring the home purchasing process into the 21st century. GIC is revolutionizing the industry with the ultimate transaction hub for top real estate professionals in Colorado. Not only does it provide clients with a dramatically better experience, it also saves agents valuable time with powerful automation features, customized templates, and modern integrations.
Jim's story, starts now...
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Neymar Lopez is a force. Born and raised in Venezuela before eventually making her way to America and becoming a US citizen, she has experienced diversities in culture, energy, attitude and opportunity. She has lived through some of the most difficult challenges a person could face - including starting a new life in a new country, thousands of miles from home, and without the benefit of speaking the common, local language.
Throughout Neymar's story, there are countless moments where she could have quit, dozens of challenges that could have driven a weaker person to their knees, and yet through them all she persevered. All of it lead to a thriving real estate business, where she leads the Colorado Collective at Compass in Denver. It lead her to meet her husband - me :) - and begin a family with our beautiful daughter Venecia. And it lead to her finding the strength to inspire so many of the people around her in their pursuit of whatever the American Dream means to them.
Her story, starts now...
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
If you know nothing else about Garret Hurlbut, know that he sees and appreciates the life he has ten times more than he agonizes over opportunities missed or benefits never received. Growing up in a unique setting, living in two distinctly different neighborhoods at the same time as a kid, routinely being the family that lived without rather than the one overwhelmed with rewards, Garret learned how to appreciate the most simplistic gifts and to work for the things he wanted.
The son of a painter, Garret learned his work ethic from both holding a paintbrush and a basketball, as he and his brother enjoyed traveling to the most talented and rugged of local Denver courts. There, he loved the look on other players' eyes as they realized he could play... and play well. That work ethic guided his path to creating his own business while in college, and A Perfect Finish Painting was.
As the years passed, Garret welcomed into his life three sons, and they are being raised by a unique and wonderful group of parents whose bond with each other and care for these boys is nothing short of miraculous. It has also enabled Garret to be what he calls the "Experience Parent," and introduced a world of adventure to his boys.
It's a story you won't want to miss, and it starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Eryn Henderson and I first connected in 2020 as she was beginning her career with Guide Real Estate (at the time BSW). Energetic, friendly and eager to learn, Eryn background in sales and her unique ability to connect with people rapidly allowed her to hit the ground running from day one and quickly became one of the brokerages most productive agents.
In our earliest days of getting to know each other, what stood out to me about Eryn was her ability to bond with people in a variety of settings and in the most natural way possible. Whether it was an open house she was working, a happy hour at a neighborhood bar or a company event, she is extremely approachable and easy to talk to, and that trait shows through every client that enjoys working with her.
As she has managed learning a new craft and growing a business, she also enjoys her home life with her husband Mike, her daughter Aubrey, and there two adorable golden retrievers. In a business that does not always make balance possible, Eryn does all she can to keep the most important things in focus.
Her story, starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In what is the 97th episode of Mindset Matters, it is hard to put into words how impressed I was with Angelica Apel’s way of thinking and the conversation we had. From the confidence and conviction she has for her craft and her care for the people she works with, to her humble nature in accepting that there are bumps along every one of our roads, Angelica was kind enough to share some of the most important moments of her journey.
Angelica is not the type of person who openly offers advice and guidance that she herself hasn't followed or experienced firsthand. From her intricate knowledge of the Highland and Wheat Ridge neighborhoods she grew up in, to taking on massive remodeling projects on a home, to creating and sustaining a business through changing markets, changing life stages and growing a family – her ability to relate to, understand and speak truth to the people she encounters is second to none. Time and time again during our conversation, Angelica showed a remarkable ability and self-awareness to put herself in another person’s shoes and to consider the emotions they must be feeling. Most impressive of all, she did so in the most human and non-judgmental of ways. You can genuinely hear and feel how much she cares for the people she surrounds herself with.
Angelica’s story is also one of family. The Apel family is one of the most well known in real estate, and Nostalgic Homes (Compass) a staple of the very neighborhoods that Angelica calls home. The lessons she has learned from her family, including her mother Jenny, run deep – and she and her husband Paul are building on that tradition as they raise their two beautiful children. It is the real-time creation of tradition and legacy that many of us strive for – as told by a person who very much thrives seeing people find joy in their lives.
I cannot thank you enough for sharing your story with me, Angelica! You are amazing!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
There are people who can claim to be adaptable, and then there are people like Kelly Reed who are ADAPTABLE. From moving dozens of times including from one US coast to the other and back, from experiencing different cultures, careers, spheres, and from handling real estate markets that have moved at break-neck speeds to one that slowed to a crawl for a moment, she has adapted.
While her ability to accept and work through change is a strength she has leaned on, so too is the high level of character she has maintained thorugh out it all. One of the most well-spoken of realtors in the Denver area (which is how we connected in the first place), with the professional success and skillset to back it up, Kelly blends her skills in understanding people and the flow of the real estate business with her creative eye and strategy to give her clients the very best.
On today's episode, Kelly was kind enough to share some of the most important chapters of her journey, and it is a story you will not want to miss!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Mark Jacobsma has long been the type that will look at a challenge and embrace finding a solution. Never afraid to do the things that others might shy away from, Mark has found success in multiple careers and businesses and routinely found a way to make something work when others might have failed. This solutions-based mindset and caring demeanor has also served him well as he raises his daughter, and there is no role he takes more pride in than that of a father.
A good spirited man with a great sense of humor, Mark jumped into real estate at a time where many would have encouraged him to run away, and rather than giving into that kind of fear, he dove in head first. Now as he grows as a professional and as a person, he is constantly looking for ways to improve in both areas. Today, I had an opportunity to sit down with Mark and hear a bit about his journey, the moments where he felt himself stumble and the moments when he got back up.
It's a story you will not want to miss, and it starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
David DiPetro is a paisan... not just because we are both from Italian decent, but also because he is the type of person that makes people feel welcome, supported and liked. Often the biggest guy in the room, he has equally large dreams that include becoming on of Denver's most successful luxury realtors at Compass, while still connecting people at all levels and stages in their real estate process.
It is for this reason that it is hard to find someone that doesn't have a kind and positive thing to say about him. He is who he says he is, in the best way possible. Always willing to help, always willing to share, always happy to see others rise as he does.
Today, David was kind enough to share a bit of his journey, from the lessons he learned form his mother and father growing up, to his explorations into sales as an adult, to building a business simultaneous to meeting the love of his life and becoming a husband.
His story... starts now.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Sam Hickman is as genuine a person as you will come across. A great blend of humble and confident, Sam grew up in the same Lakewood, Colorado neighborhoods I did, so it was only a matter of time before we sat down and chopped up life stories and how he came to be the man and professional he is.
As his growth in the real estate world has picked up steam, Sam has maintained the person he is and his outlook on life. What else would you expect from a man who has always seemed to have a calming ability to recognize what opportunities and obstacles were long term and which were short. From Colorado, to Hawaii, to the Rocky Mountains and casino life back in Colorado, to a now thriving real estate business - Sam's seen a lot and lived even more.
Today he was generous enough to share that story, and it begins... now!2
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Vicki Zeeb has an energy to her that is apparent from the moment you meet her. A natural competitor, Vicki grew up playing tennis at a high level, and like an athlete who plays a sport that requires quick feet and excellent reflexes, she has a resilience about her that she will take on and figure out any challenge at any time.
A wife, mother, and thriving entrepreneur, Vicki has been growing her real estate business at Coldwell Banker through both friendly and not so friendly markets. As she has navigated those waters, she has embraced the lessons she and her husband are also learning as they raise two young children and battle the life/work balance struggle that many can relate to.
Through it all, she has kept her head up, her invigorating smile and energy in place, and been a role model for so many facing the same challenges. Today we are fortunate to hear about these and other stories of her life.
Her story, starts now...
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Ben Bressler doesn't mince words, and he's earned the right not to. Managing to take care of yourself for many of your childhood years and having to literally fight for what you have will do that to someone. Sprinkle in becoming a United States Marine and the there is no holding back.
So while his days in the Marines are behind him, there is a still a high level of integrity, grit and responsibility that is a part of Ben's core. A husband and father of two you children, he balances the growth of his personal real estate business with the goals his family sets for the future. Chat with him for even a moment and it becomes crystal clear that his desire to provide his children with the foundations he never had and the safety he could only dream of is of the utmost importance to him.
Perhaps most of all, Ben's good-natured sense comes out. He has a no-nonsense mindset and very much a live and let live outlook. It's a refreshing change from a society that watches every word, and an time when we don't speak truth as much as we might speak what people want to hear.
His story, starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
As she likes to say, Jameson Olson may not be your cup of tea, but she is your fourth shot of tequila. The woman lovingly nicknamed “The Ninja Ginga” - Jameson has spearheaded the growth of All My Sons Moving in South Florida, Dallas and now Denver. As outgoing, creative and relentless as it gets, she’s created a brand unto herself that her clients adore.
It hasn’t been an easy road though - and on this episode of Mindset Matters, Jameson was kind enough to share her journey that included a unique run in with All My Sons in her early adult years that would foreshadow her growth and perseverance in the future.
Her story… starts now.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
You can’t help but feel good when you are in Piper Knoll’s presence. She’s kind, considerate, always learning, and genuinely curious to learn about you. The team lead of the Knoll Team @ West & Main, Piper has found a way to blend her care for people and their well being alongside leadership traits that have worked well professionally and at home.
The mother of two wonderful daughters, one graduating from college and the other high school, Piper was kind enough to share the experiences of her lifetime and theirs, including crossing paths with her now husband, Justin Knoll, and all they have accomplished since.
Thank you so much for joining me, Piper, you’re amazing!🙏🏼
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Amy Robinson is a woman that embraces creativity, learning, challenge and growth. The youngest of 8 children, she grew up as her siblings did - competing in gymnastics - while enjoying the experiences of learning new things at one time considering a career in education. As her life evolved, more and more of her creative side connected with that enjoyment for learning, and she has blended the two into both a professional and personal combination.
When Amy created the Cannon Collective, named for her grandfather, she felt an opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level than your typical process. A taste for fashion, a taste for structure and design, and a unique perspective on value, Amy not only guides her clients on the sale or purchase of a home, rather she shows them how to get the most out of it whether it is a stepping stone, the forever home or an investment.
There is also a natural kindness and genuine care that Amy displays - whether you are a good friend or someone she just met. It does not take a person long to get a sense for her quality and how she naturally puts people first.
Her incredible story, starts her.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Sean Murphy is a perfect representation of a mix between the good natured and humorous spirit of people from the Midwest, with the adventure seeking, mountain loving Coloradan. Raised in Youngstown, Ohio, Sean made his way out to Colorado as a young adult, and despite challenges that could have easily broken a weaker man, he found answers to all of his problems through one simple philosophy - out work the challenge.
Now the team lead of the Moxie Property Group and eXp Realty, Sean is building a unique team of realtors with focuses in mountain living, luxury, and everything in between. He has also developed one of the most popular and productive YouTube channels in Colorado, focused on helping people move to the Front Range.
Always humble and always with a sense of humor, Sean has stayed true to his principles and values - and the belief that no matter the challenge - he is determined to work his way through it.
His story, starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
There are few things that people can say they TRULY and PROFESSIONALLY excel at - and Ben Babbitt has a few that he can hang his hat on. Having reached lofty accomplishments as a professional skier and coach, over close to the last decade he has pivoted his work ethic, determination and intelligence into becoming a highly respected realtor, mentor and co-founder of Ivy House Group along with his friend and business partner Alexis Shoop.
Yet despite all of his accomplishments, it is Ben's humanity and kind heart that comes across first and foremost. From the moment you meet him, you know you are getting the true and best version of a husband, father, professional, and man. He is the type that cheers for people and loves watching them succeed and grow, and tied to the belief that a rising tide raises all ships.
Ben was also kind enough to share his journey in becoming a father - one that this podcast host found to be as impactful a story as one can get.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
In this episode of Mindset Matters, I had the privilege of sitting down with my dear friend and colleague, Jen Miller. Jen wears many hats with grace: she's a devoted mother to her son, a highly respected and accomplished real estate agent and co-founder of the Miller Thompson Home Group at Compass, and a content creator renowned for her infectious wit and sense of humor.
Running in similar circles, I have always appreciated just how loved Jen is by those who know her best, and it was an honor to gain insight into her journey of balancing the demands of motherhood and a thriving career in real estate. From managing client expectations, the importance of building genuine connections with clients and fostering a supportive team environment, to navigating the unpredictable terrain of parenthood, Jen offers practical advice, always paced by her trademark humor.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
“I was f—king cute…”
I have asked each of the 84 guests on my podcast to describe themselves as a kid… and leave it to Lindsey Benton to pause for a moment, think about her son who is 6.5 years old (and you better not leave off the 1/2) - and with a huge smile, give the answer you read above.
This is what you get when you have a conversation with Lindsey. You get an abundance of spontaneous, energetic and genuine thoughts from a woman who prides herself on serving people, recognizing injustices and doing something about it, and the love she has for her family, her friends and her city.
She named her company Live. Laugh. Denver because she always said who needs love when you have Denver - and since its creation she and those that call the company home have helped hundreds of clients experience the joys of home ownership… all while playing an integral part in the communities they live in.
Lindsey, I am so grateful that you would join me and share your story with us! 🙏🏼
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Irving Gomez's path to real estate in Denver was anything but a straight line. Raised on the western side of Colorado and after attending college in Grand Junction, Irving made his way to Denver to be closer to family and eventually the woman who would become his wife and the mother of his children. Along the way, Irving found a passion for home ownership and entered the real estate business.
Along the way he has maintained the good nature that has served him so well and a care for the people he surrounds himself by. On today's episode, he shares a bit of that journey, and what is important to him as he builds the life he and his family always dreamed of.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
I have long believed that a military spouse is as much veteran as their partner - both sacrifice, both support, and both serve. It is no surprise than that Ashley Faller has found such a large impact in the veteran community of Denver, Colorado.
About the only thing growing faster than her real estate business is her two children, and today we dive into Ashley’s journey and what makes her one of the most relatable and kind-spirited people you will ever cross paths with.
Her story… starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
RaNae Sevier doesn't mince words, if she thinks it and believes it, you'll hear it. It is for that very reason that she is beloved by her friends, family and colleagues. With a background in both real estate and lending, RaNae‘a approach to life and business has always been about digging in and learning everything she can about her craft. Along the way she has built a business and reputation that is highly regarded throughout the front range of Colorado.
Her story... starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Dave Williams is a man grounded in learning, experiencing, and growing, and I was honored to have him join me on the most recent episode of Mindset Matters. From a childhood in Arizona, to earning a masters and meeting his wife at Duke, to exploring numerous parts of the U.S. together as physical therapists, to eventually landing in Denver and discovering a passion for real estate, Dave has packed a lot of accomplishment in a short period of time.
Most recently, he and his wife Shahn welcomed their son Wyatt into the world, and once again the educator and advisor finds himself learning new lessons and enjoying new experiences. Along the way, Dave's care for people, his desire to live the perfect day, and his passion for what he does is unmistakable.
It's a story you will not want to miss, and it starts... now.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
As much as you could try, you'd be hard pressed to find a more accomplished, respected AND liked realtor than Adrian Kinney. A native of Lakewood, Colorado, Adrian's path to real estate was a combination of education and interesting careers opportunities, and a truly fascinating journey of lessons that he couldn't possibly have truly known were preparing him for as unique a real estate business as you will find.
On todays episode, Adrian was kind enough to share a bit of his story, the road that lead him to real estate, the life he is building alongside the love of his life, Kit, and his passions for a specific type of home... coined the Mid Mod.
The Mid Century Modern home is a unique and generally rare style, and one that few know as well as Adrian. A true lover of the Mid-Mod, he not only educates and guides people in their pursuit of them (along with other types of homes, of course), and also lives in one that he and Kit have restored to perfection.
As you'll hear in the episode, Adrian's passion extends to his family, his friends, his clients, and beyond.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Spend a few minutes around Alexis Shoop and you’ll quickly m get a sense of her energy, kindness and confidence. Listen to her for a few minutes, and you’ll have an even stronger sense of her determination and relentlessness.
A successful woman long before real estate became her passion, Alexis was kind enough to join me on the most recent episode of Mindset Matters.
The Co-Team Leader of The Ivy House Group at Compass Denver, Alexis shared a journey that takes us through the early explorations of life, to moving to Denver, to becoming a wife and mother of two - while simultaneously building a thriving business - and along the way joining forces with Ben Babbitt and creating a growing powerhouse in the Denver real estate scene.
Alexis, I am grateful our paths crossed, thankful that you would take the time to share your story, and excited to see what you will accomplish next!!!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
While there is rarely a direct line that leads someone into real estate, Jordan Terrell’s path may by one of the more unique ones that you will hear. A former pastor with the Flatirons Community Church, Jordan had been part of a community that had experienced tremendous growth and his own evolution as a leader.
Then, as his journey in that world ended, he saw a path for himself in real estate, Jordan launched a business that has itself evolved into one of the most substantial and impactful groups in the front range. The Jordan Terrell Group at REAL Brokerage continues to expand, and Jordan’s ability to see and implement strategies and tactics are unmatched.
On today’s episode of mindset matters, Jordan was kind enough to give us a look at the man behind the work. We get a chance to hear, firsthand his journey and what means most to him. A father, a leader, and innovator - a builder - Jordan’s accomplishments are substantial, and he’s just getting started.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
There is an unmistakable energy when you sit down to have a conversation with Mike and Nick Papantonkis. The bond of father and son is clearly felt the moment they enter the room, and the pride, belief and encouragement for one another is unmistakable. As you learn more about them, it becomes more and more obvious how they came to be in the position they are today and how inevitable it was.
Having sold his stock and moved away from a business he had run for nearly 27 years, Mike entered the Denver real estate market officially in 2007, and over the past 16 years has become one of cities most respected realtors and an ambassador of the industry. It was perhaps inevitable than that his son Nick would eventually decide that his previous career had run its course, see the potential of bringing his talents to the business, and the two of them would create a team together.
Today, Mike and Nick were kind enough to share a bit about their journey, how their beautiful family came to be, and a peak behind the curtains of what makes their connection as father and son, business partners, and advocates for one another - so powerful.
That story... starts now.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
It is not every day that you get to sit down with one of the most respected developers in all of Denver, a man who has not only witnessed but been an actual part of how the Denver metro area came to be, and hear his journey. Howard Witkin of Witkin Homes, a truly family owned and operated business with 70 years of operation, was kind enough to join Michele Ciardullo, Mor Zucker and myself to share his journey, his passion, his vision, and his project at Bridgecreek Townhomes .
The conversation includes the evolution of real estate in Denver, the vision and passion behind each project, and the challenges and triumphs of the modern market. Through it all, Howard has maintained the integrity that his family built their legacy on - and the desire to create an environment that makes homeowners, home makers.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Retreat is not a word Ryan Retaleato relates to very well. Whether it was finding a solution to a problem growing up, having the confidence to step away from a successful career that required him to be away from his wife on travel far too much, or moving from Florida to Denver only to find out a few months later that the position he had moved for would now require his to move to Arizona (something he chose not to do), Ryan is resilient at every corner.
A loving husband, an adoring father, and a highly motivated and successful real estate agent with Redfin in Denver, Ryan was kind enough to share a bit about his journey, what inspires and motivates him, and what has made him the man he is today. Through it all, that word - resilience - will come up time and time again - and to see a a couple handle the challenges of the world with optimism at the same time they are building a family is incredible to say the least.
His story... starts now.
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Mike Bruce has always been the type to figure it out. Whether it was a childhood challenge, entering the real estate world, or diving into the challenges of fatherhood, he has an ability to deal with things head on and find a solution. On this week's episode of Mindset Matters, I was excited to sit down with Mike as he shared a bit of his journey, how he keeps himself moving in a positive direction, and the evolution of his career into some very impressive leadership positions.
His story, starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Krystal Thompson is living proof that the phrase, "we are the sum of the people we surround ourselves with," is real, both for the inspiration and care she gives and receives from those closest to her. It shines clearly in her accomplishments professionally in both real estate (where she is one of Denver's top producing realtors) or with her ever-expanding staging company. It shows up in how she shows up for her family, it shows up in how she shows up for her friends, and it certainly shows up in the way she shows up in the care and encouragement she brings to people.
Her genuine story of self discovery and growth is one you will not want to miss!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Brandi Harvey is not your typical spa-owning, real estate selling entrepreneur. Most people you come across operating those or any other businesses will not also have first hand experience constructing bases in the Middle East during a time of war or disposing of bombs while they are at it. Yes, that's what 18-year-old Brandi Harvey was doing in Iraq as the US invaded in 2003.
Fast forward to today and she is the owner and operator of multiple businesses, a determined investor, and the mother of two. Through it all, Brandi has managed to handle anything thrown her way, no matter the circumstances or challenges, because she can truly say she has been through worse.
Her incredible story, starts now!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
While I will never judge someone based on what they did or did not want to be as a kid, Madison Wayne’s answer to that question was one of my all time favorites. Now I won’t giveaway the answer here - you’ll have to listen to her episode of Mindset Matters for that - just know it does shine a light on her kind nature and spirit, and is honestly just as good a guess as someone making a prediction of their future that involves becoming an astronaut or brain surgeon. 🚀
Through Madison’s journey, certain things become very obvious - people are important to her, she wants to impact them in a positive way, and she has not allowed any bump along her road to affect the care and kindness she has for those she cares for.
Madison was kind enough to share a bit of her story with us today - the winding path that lead her to Denver, to real estate, to her husband, and so many more great tales, it’s one you won’t want to miss.🙏🏼
Thank you, Madison, you’re amazing!!
https://spotify.link/2qnUgySbIDb
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
The easiest way to describe Bret Weinstein is to say that he’s an extremely shy man of few words who lacks confidence…
That is unless you actually know him or even cross paths with him for two seconds, and instead you know that he is the polar opposite of those things and one of the most dynamic thinkers, leaders, and influencers in the Denver real estate market.
A friend and mentor from my earliest days in the business, the Guide Real Estate founder was kind enough to share a bit of his story, his perspective and his insight on the most recent episode of Mindset Matters.
Bret, my brother, it’s always a great time when we get together - and I’m grateful for you!
https://spotify.link/v5cbUqkuwDb
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
You’re a 22 year-old getting ready to graduate from San Diego State University and beginning to plan your next steps in life.
Do you apply for a job in your degree field?
Do you move back to Colorado?
Do you take some time off and “experience life?”
If you’re Robin Gerlach, you join a college buddy and move down to South America and begin teaching English classes to Argentines… and eventually transition into becoming the owner of THE bike touring company of Buenos Aires.
You know, basic stuff.
Of course, there was much more in-store for my dear friend - who would eventually meet his lovely wife, become a father (shout out to girl dads) return to Colorado and become a highly respected and skilled realtor in Denver… among other accomplishments.
Along the way, Robin has held true to what makes him the man he is. He is kind, caring, humble, and genuinely one of the best human beings I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with - and I was thankful he would share his story with me.
Thank you Robin, love you brother!
www.shieldlendingteam.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Put plainly, Monica Wilson Graves does not mess around. Whether it is her drive and determination that once made her the first female to take on a lead sales role with Ralph Lauren, to guiding clients in the Denver Metro Area or the Rocky Mountains in the purchase or sale of their home, to becoming a champion BMX bike racer (yes, you read that right), if there is something she wants to accomplish, make no mistake - she will.
On today's episode of Mindset Matters, Monica was kind enough to share her journey and the evolution of what she wants her life and those of the people she loves, to be about. From lessons that we only learn through extreme level success and challenging times, Monica discusses how she took each one of those lessons and applies it to her life, her business, and her family.
Her story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Cory Williams opens the door and the first thing you see, at least since he grew it in 2020, is a huge smile wrapped by a well shaped white beard and an energy that reaches you from the word, hello. A Midwesterner to the core, Cory is kind, welcoming, intelligent, and motivated, and these qualities have combined to make him one of the most successful realtors in Denver and a big reason his team, Living the Dream at eXp Realty , is so well regarded.
Today he shares the steps along his path that have made him the man he is, and created the passion he now holds. A husband, a leader, and a good natured man whose care for people make his business a natural fit.
His story, starts now...
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Spend even a few minutes with today's guest, Natalya Kazantseva, and you will quickly gain a sense of what has lead to her success, not just in business, but in anything she has put her energy into doing. There is an unmistakable level of care that Natalya puts into the things she does, whether it is guiding her clients along the path of real estate, or showing her care for family and friends, to leading members of the Relevate Homes Team to achieve their own goals.
As you will hear, Natalya's journey was not always clear and certainly wasn't always easy. She is humble enough to talk about not selling a house in her first year in the business, and confident enough to share how she found the right group to surround herself with after that first year and began taking the Denver real estate scene by storm ever since. Along the way she has never lost sight of who she is and what is most important to her. You cannot hear her story without hearing just how much the people in her life matter to her and how it is impossible with her mindset to ever take them for granted.
Her story, starts now...
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Spend just a few minutes around Gwenivere Snyder, known to her friends lovingly as "G" or "G-Money" to some of the talented athletes she has worked with, and you quickly get a sense of what has made this woman of faith an impactful and influential real estate advisor, while simultaneously handling the roles of wife, mother, grandmother (if you can believe it), and philanthropist.
Pick a hat and there isn't one that Gwenivere hasn't worn. Survivor, Thriver, Entrepreneur, Giver - she has worn dozens. From surviving a teenage accident that could have ended her life, to fighting to keep her family on solid ground when health challenges arouse, to giving back to her community in ways that would inspire the most giving of us - there isn't anyone who has crossed paths with her that wasn't better for having done so.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, G...
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On today's episode I sat down with Sam Neumann of Keller Williams Integrity in Denver. Sam is a husband, father of two, and a fellow, former journalism major who eventually would spend more than a decade in the video production / editing space. Then 2020 hit and as many did, Sam found himself out of a job and searching to find the right fit for his next move.
Fast forward to today and Sam is an up and coming realtor in the Denver market and an established content creator with a rapidly growing YouTube channel. He has taken his talent in video and editing and translated them into his business, and his clients and colleagues have taken notice.
His story, starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
While many people make the claim to have been to hell and back, Grant Muller might be the closest individual to actually doing it that I have ever encountered.
His hell includes a life of drug addiction, life on the streets, and running from people who aimed to take his life. His coming back includes vulnerability and recovery, the creation of one of Denver's most formidable real estate companies, coaching, speaking, and most recently, becoming a published author.
His book Top of Heart, set for release on July 11th, dives into his journey, and on today's episode of Mindset Matters he was kind enough to give us a sneak peek into his mind and his creation. A passionate man who has found that his experiences ties right back into his work and how he shows up for people, Grant has found a way to help people in both personal and professional spaces, and continues to garner opportunities to coach, speak and mentor.
One of the most unique stories you will ever hear, and it starts... right now!
To preorder/purchase your copy of Top of Heart, go to this link:
https://a.co/d/j3p4WdK
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
It is rare that you meet an individual as disciplined, intelligent, and resilient enough to withstand the world of real estate investing, fix & flips, short term rentals and coaching - let alone to find it in two people capable of such an accomplishment. Then combine that with a unique bond that just happened to evolve from business partners, to husband and wife, to wealth creators, coaches and more recently, parents.
Michael Griffin had already made a name for himself as a successful commercial real estate broker when he first encountered Brianna, at the time a new real estate with aspirations for big things and a life-time of habits and disciplines to back it up. Fast forward, and over the past several years the two have created one of the most impressive real estate businesses you will find anywhere - including Brianna finishing as the #1 real estate agent in closed transactions for the last two years running, and the two sharing a real estate portfolio worth more than $30m.
Today they share their story, how their relationship moved from business, to love, to life - and how their ambitions have aligned to not only create something extremely powerful and life changing for themselves and their family, but also for the people they coach and mentor.
Their story... starts now!
www.wealthbyre.com
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
I have known Chad Nash for many years, stretching back to our earliest days in the real estate industry. While I knew some of his story, it was nothing short of a blessing to have him join me on Mindset Matters to share his journey.
A Colorado native, Chad grew up in the Montbello neighborhood of Denver, and discussed his experiences growing up and struggling to find his way. With the letters PhD behind his name, you might think that he was an early lover of school and education, but like many young men (myself included), Chad shares his difficulty and lack of interest at an early age, and the trials he had to go through as a kid and into his young adult life.
It was at the end of his biggest setback that Chad began to see clearly, and through great effort he would eventually earn his doctorate and go right back into an educational system that he knew first hand needed a fresh breath of leadership. His path would include a successful career in the Denver Public School system and working deeply with his community to help those most in need - and this passion would later become vital to the real estate empire he has built since joining that industry in 2018.
Along the way, Chad created Nash & Co Real Estate, a tremendous accomplish that places his father's and family's name on a legacy... a legacy he adds to every day.
His incredible story... starts now.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this episode of Mindset Matters, I was excited to sit down with my friend and realtor extraordinaire Casey Herzfeld of Your Castle Real Estate. Casey has created a real estate business founded on a passion for military and first responder families, and veterans, and shared with us how this passion came to fruition. From a childhood on the east coast, to watching her beloved brother leave for the US Marine Corps, to becoming a young mother and eventually raising two wonderful children (the oldest now serving in the US Navy), Casey has demonstrated her ability to adapt and overcome time and time again.
Throughout her story you will hear a common core of who she is - and that is a woman who cares about people. From caring for children, clients, friends, family and community, no one is more passionate about people.
Her story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On this episode of Mindset Matters, my friend, colleague and adventurer Jerad Larkin sat down with me to share the tail of his life. I admit, I thought I knew a fair share about Jerad, but this is a man who has fit a lot of accomplishment into a short amount of time.
From a generous spirit and healthy work ethic at an early age, he shared his early years spent on that included ski slopes and entreprenuership. He dives into how he arrived in Colorado to attend the University of Denver and eventually meet his soulmate. He was also kind enough to share how he become both a master of travel hacking which has allowed he and his wife to see so much of the world, but also at creating amazing video stories to tie into that.
Along the way, Jerad has created one of the strongest personal brands in real estate and title in Denver, all while growing a family that recently expanded by two beautiful twin girls born in April. He is the epitome of a good man, doing good things, and receiving good in turn.
His story... starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Megan Aller of First American Title in Denver, Colorado joined me on the most recent episode of Mindset Matters. Megan is THE expert when it comes to the Denver metro area real estate market for stats, trends and projections. During her 15+ year career in title, she has built a reputation as the leading source of information and data, and her ability to present that information to her clients is at an unreplicatable level.
To get to this point, we have to go back, and Megan walks us through her early life and her immediate interest in numbers. She was also kind enough to share details of how her life evolved, how attending school at the University of Northern Colorado helped break her out of her shell, how she spent a few years traveling the world as a flight attendant, and to eventually becoming the mother to two beautiful young children.
Through it all, Megan keeps her mindset in the right place through purpose, habits, and passion, and I am grateful she would share those experiences with us.
Her story... starts here!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
On today's episode I was thrilled to be joined by Brody Stinson of Compass Denver and to hear his story of growing up, exploring the world, evolving as a human being, and certainly making a name for himself as one of the biggest producers in the Denver real estate market.
Brody was kind enough to talk about some of the challenges he overcame as a young man, the people that helped guide him back towards the right path, and how getting lost (at sea in some instances) actually helped him find his way.
His story, starts now!
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Today I was joined by Andrew Vascasseno of eXp Realty, a creative, energetic and influential real estate entrepreneur and Tik Tok creator. Andrew entered the real estate business full time in 2020, and as the Covid pandemic was picking up steam, he knew he had to find new ways to get in front of people. Today he shares the story of his upbringing, what motivates him, and what led him to this unique creative side.
Andrew also recently became a father for the first time, so he and I had a chance to chate about that. One can only imagine what his creative mind will come up with now that he has a little side kick to be his muse!
His story... starts now.
www.everettslending.com
720-979-8742
jimmy@everettslending.com
IG: @jimmythesaint5280
Felicia Beltran has covered a lot of bases in her days, literally. A military daughter, raised all over the world, I was honored to have her join me on the most recent episode of Mindset Matters. Felicia was kind enough to share her journey, her expereinces as a military daughter, and her eventual arrival and life building experience in Pueblo, Colorado, the same town my mother is from.
Felicia has built a substantial real estate career and reputation over the years, and now she brings that level of knowledge to a coaching and speaking atmosphere, traveling across the country to help other realtors build their business. As if that were not enough, she is also the mother to four children and a role model in way that cannot be described in words.
Am amazing story from start to finish, her story, starts now...
It is not everyday that you get a chance to speak with someone as energetic and motivated as Ashley Mendenhall of Hatch Real Estate in Denver. Add to the mix her intelligence, sense of humor, and her accomplishments personally, professionally and for her community and you will soon learn why she is an extremely easy person to cheer for and take inpiration from.
It was for that reason that I was honored to have Ashley join me on this weeks episode of Mindset Matters. Ashley was kind enough to share her journey, from growing up in Oklahoma, to making a nationwide impact on the rescue of dogs in the most dire of situations, to eventually making her way to Denver and entering the world of real estate. Her stories are among the most caring, humurous, and heart filling (especially when it comes to dogs) that you will ever hear.
Thank you Ashley, you are incredible!!!
On this episode of Mindset Matters, I was honored to hear the story of Katie Hankins, a remarkable woman who has blended her human spirit and love for people (and music, as you'll hear) in a family and business that any one of us could look up to. Katie has a contagious spirit, and her care for people is evident in everything she does, including the operation of an extremely successful real estate business.
In sharing her story, Katie tells of how she met her husband and their joint love for music, the group of friends and family they have built on it's foundations, and led them to becoming parents to a beautiful little boy. It is impossible to hear her story and not be moved by what she has done, what she is doing, and what she will do. She is truly an inspiration.
Her story, starts now...
On today's eiditon of Mindset Matters, Ed Prather joins us to share his story of personal and professional growth that has seen him rapidly become one of the most recognized names in all of Denver real estate.
Spend just a little time around Ed and you will quickly learn that he is the type that, once he identifies a goal or purpose, has only one measure of effort in reagrd to that goal, and that is ALL IN. He lives the motto of only having one life to live, and making the very best out of it. Through those efforts, he has built a powerful real estate company in an unusually short period of time - although certainly not from a lack of additonal effort. Along the way he has maintained his role as a husband, father and mentor.
His story... begins now.
On the 45th episode of Mindset Matters, I was joined by Bri Olson of eXp Real Estate in Denver, Colorado. Bri is the daughter of a real estate powerhouse of a mother back in her home state of Minnesota, and with an entrepreneurial spirit, it was only a matter of time that she took the leap into the industry herself. While this initially lead her back to Minnesota to get the ball rolling, Bri's journey eventually brought her back to Colorado, where in 2020 - just weeks prior to the Covid shutdown, she committed herself to the real estate business 100%.
Despite a myriad of challenges that crippled countless real estate professionals, Bri survived and thrived, building a business that includes assisting her clients at an elite level while also building a personal portfolio of fix-and-flip and investment properties along the way. One of the fastest growing realtors in Denver, Bri shares with us how she handles the responsibility of a thriving business with motherhood, self-improvement, and the never ending pursuit of her best self.
Her story, starts now!!!
On todays episode of Mindset Matters, I had the privilege of sitting down with Rod & Sarah Gallegos of Keller Williams in the Highlands. Sarah has long been a lightening rod (no pun intended) in the Denver real estate market, and several years ago and in the midst of an unhappy career, the happy couple decided that Rod would enter the real estate ring... and the two haven't looked back.
Sarah and Rod were kind enough to share their history together, how they found not just their personal and professional paths together, but also the challenges that come along with one partner entering an industry where the other already has a high level of expertise. Their story and support for each other combined with their dedication is incredible to witness.
Thank you, Rod & Sarah!
Today I was joined by Kayla Schmitz of Kentwood Real Estate in Denver, Colorado. Raised in a mix of city and country life, this fifth generation Coloradoan has created an inspiring family and business while building upon the legacy of her ancestors.
Kayla shares with us her earliest ambitions, what motivates and drives her, and how becoming a wife and mother have imp[acted her personally and professionally. She also tells of a family history rich in its accomplishments and care for each other.
I was so very honored to hear your story, Kayla, thank you!
Today we welcome to the show Steph Kroll of milehimodern, an incredibly good spirited, energetic and intelligent content creator who also just happens to be one of the most knowledgeable realtors in the midmodern home space in all of Denver, among other talents.
Steph was kind enough to come on to Mindset Matters and share a little of her background, her early dreams and journey, and of course her success in real estate and in content creation, including successful TikTok and Instagram pages. He ability to blend her high level of knowledge with her good natured personality has has a lasting impact on her clients, followers and friends alike.
Her story... starts now,
On today's episode I am joined by fellow Lakewood, Colorado native Jeremy Kane, one of the most motivated and focused individuals and business operators that you will meet.
While Jeremy has created a successful real estate pipeline for years, it is in his mental and physical growth that he has taken things to level few reach. Having joined a group of realtors at eXp called the Wolfpack, he has not only grown his production to elite levels, but also become a coach and mentor for dozens of agents. Along the way he has maintained his good natured spirit, his care for people, and his desire to see the people around him become their best selves.
Jeremy is also an amazing husband and father to three young daughters, including a newborn. Always seeking improvement, he is in the middle of doing the 75 Hard for a second time.
His story... starts now!
From the moment you meet her, Halley Zadeyan has an energy about her that stands out. From her genuine smile, to the clear determination she possesses, to her care for the people she cares about most, Halley has built herself into one of the biggest up and coming names in the Denver real estate world and one its strongest influencers.
Today Halley was gracious enough to share her story, of an outdoorsy kid that loved exploring new things, to early childhood dreams, to living in among other places, New Mexico, Colorado and California. Along the way she experienced personal moments that might bring some to their knees, and others that have lifted her to a space of happiness that includes marriage and the soon to be birth of her first child, a little girl.
Halley's wonderful story... starts now!
On this episode of Mindset Matters, Ryan Livingston of RE/MAX Fort Collins was kind enough to share his story. If you look at his life now you will see a successful and directed man, husband and father, yet Ryan's journey to get here lead him through several challenges that might break a person.
From overcoming early addiction, to finding the right environment, to building a family and business, this man has accomplished a lot in a short period of time and is truly just getting started.
His story... starts now!
This week I was honored to sit down with Derek Schulze of Symbio Denver, one of Denver's most creative, interesting, influential and successful personalities in the city. We hear a lot about how someone's journey takes them off the beaten path or how they have gone on extraordinary explorations... yet in Derek's case this is not an exaggeration of any sort.
In Derek's case, the beaten path started on farmland in Indiana, sent him to Chicago for college and eventually saw him live for 2 years as an actual monk... yes, a monk.
To try and briefly describe the journey we are about to go on would be a waste in futility, so instead I will simply tell you that Derek's story and his opinions of this existence are among some of my favorites shared on this podcast to date, and I was so very grateful he would share them with us.
His story... starts now!
On this weeks episode of Mindset Matters, I sat down with my friend Lina Krylov, a women who has been near the top of the real estate industry in the Denver area for the better part of 20 years, and whose story becomes entertaining and incredible basically at birth.
Born in Latvia, she began playing chess professionally and checkma5ting adults at an age when most of us where hanging out in preschool. Upon immigrating to the U.S. with her parents and brother, she learned about her new world in the heart of New York and life on Long Island, and eventually moved to Denver and began growing nothing short of an empire.
Along the way there have been triumphs and defeats that may have crushed some, but not this one.
Oh, and we share the same birthday... April 27th, so you know she's good people!
Lina's story, starts now!
On this week's episode of Mindset Matters, I sat down with Joseph Newman of the Sultan Newman Group at Compass Denver. Joseph and I were fortunate to connect in our earliest days in the business - for me the earliest of early - and his passions, intelligence, care for people and mindset have always been a breath of fresh air. It was because of our many conversations that I wanted to get him on an episode to share his story.
Joseph's journey includes immersing himself in Spanish culture to learn their language, a love for foods that acted as a springboard for his entrepreneurship mindset, and a care for people that shines through.
That story...starts now!
On this week's edition of Mindset Matters, I was honored to sit down with my friend and colleague Leslie Maginn, one of the most genuine human beings you will ever come across. Leslie's story is not one that can easily be described, let alone in a brief description here. I would simply say it involves elements of tragedy, struggle, overcoming demons and finding purpose in a world that can make it difficult to do so.
Through it all, Leslie has built a successful career, and perhaps more importantly, she has become an important piece of the law enforcement and first responder community here in the Denver Metro area and a voice for the families of those devastated by police officer suicide... and she is only just beginning.
Her amazing story, starts now...
On today's episode of Mindset Matters, I sat down with Adam Way, the CEO of GWS&A here in Denver, Colorado, and the leader of one of the best financial advisor teams in Colorado, if not the nation.
Adam was kind enough to share his journey, as an active young man growing up in northern Colorado, to becoming an avid mountain biker and becoming part of multiple national championship teams at Fort Lewis College in Durango, to entering finance and eventually building the team he leads today. Sharing his personal habits as well as the impact his family and wife have had on him, Adam gave an insightful look into what has made him such a success in his field as well as an inspiration for his friends and colleagues alike.
His story... starts now!
On today's episode of Mindset Matters, I was thrilled to sit down with Rachel Kennedy, team lead of the Kennedy Home Group. Rachel manages to balance the life of a wife and mother of two boys (and dog mom to an adorable pup, Pocket), while also leading her real estate team AND Raven Holding, and multi-family investment business her and her husband, Kevin, launched early in 2022.
Rachel's ability to remain motivated and relatable shins through in how she approaches her business and handles the needs of her clients, while never losing sight on the importance of her family and her true priorities.
Her story, starts now!
Today's episodes of Mindset Matters may be one of the best experiences I have had getting to know a guest. Sergio Nazzaro is a former officer in the Air Force, an Air Force Academy graduate, in fact, who battled through some significant post-military challenges to find his voice and passion as a husband, father and incredibly successful and influential realtors in the Denver and Boulder markets.
As you'll hear in his episode, Sergio's ability to remain human and vulnerable have served him well. From his story of how he got into the Air Force Academy in the first place, to requesting a deployment to Afghanistan just months from separating from the military, and from becoming a husband and father to growing into a powerful voice in the Denver real estate world, there is a likability factor that is simply off the charts with Sergio.
His incredible story...starts now!
On this week's edition of Mindset Matters, I was honored to be joined by Madison Kissel of Compass Denver, a woman who has risen to the ranks of some of Denver's most productive agents in record breaking time, with record breaking effort and talent.
Madison was kind enough to share her story of coming to Colorado, suffering a catastrophic skiing injury that could have derailed more than her career ambitions, and eventually recovering a finding an industry and opportunity that she has taken to levels of success few ever seen.
To me, Madison may be the exception to the rule in terms of the speed of her growth, but not an exception to the work she had to be willing to do to get there. Her drive, mindset and desire to be great shine through in her story.
...and that story starts now!
On today's edition of Mindset Matters, I was thrilled to sit down with Stacey Stambaugh, the creator and team leader of the Savvy Group at Kentwood Real Estate in Denver.
Stacey is a third generation Coloradoan who has managed to shape her tenacity, creativity and caring nature into becoming one of the most skilled and influential realtors in all of Denver. Along the way she has built the Savvy Group, a team of 8 motivated ladies who not only know their business, and also create some of the best social media content you will ever see. Her story of finding herself, her place in the world, her purpose and her role as a woman, a mother, and as a team leader is nothing short of inspiring.
On top of it all, Stacey has a spirit that people are easily drawn too, the kind that makes you feel welcome from the very first introduction. She was kind enough to share some of her experiences, including some life changes that have occurred in recent years that has, in her words, brought back a part of her that she believes she may have lost even before adulthood.
Her story...starts now!
On Today's episode of Mindset Matters, I was lucky enough to be joined by my friend and incredible realtor and human being Jenny Penman, aka the Adventurous Agent. Jenny's love for the outdoors and everything Colorado has to offer its inhabitants and visitors has lead her to explore every corner of the state, and she has transformed this passion into a special niche in her business.
Originally from New York and raised just outside of Chicago, Jenny was kind enough to share the journey, triumphs and failures that lead her to Colorado. From a personal tragedy few experience, to life lessons that brought on additional adventures, to meeting her husband and amazing human in his own right Paul, Jenny's vulnerability is on a level that sets her apart from most. Her and Paul also happen to have two of cutest golden retriever brothers, Trek & Timber, that you will ever see.
Recently Jenny has also opened up about her journey, struggles and pains in her pursuit of motherhood, a subject she has shared some meaningful thoughts and writings about in the past months, and I was honored that she would share some of the experiences and emotions on the podcast today. They have brought plenty of woman struggling with similar experiences together, and truly proven that there is strength in numbers.
Jenny's story...starts now!
On this week's edition of Mindset Masters, I was grateful to have Karen Dorfman of Guide Real Estate join us and share a bit of journey. Karen's journey, and many of ours can, has taken her some interesting turns and she was kind enough to share how her life has evolved as a woman, an entrepreneur and an extremely talented realtor. Karen has always seemed to have a knack for working with people, operating a business, and dealing with challenging situations, and hearing how all of it came together is a story you will not want to miss.
That story...starts now!
On today's episode of Mindset Matters, I was thrilled to be joined by my friend, colleague and remarkably talented realtor Elizabeth Hotz of Kentwood Real Estate. Along with her business partners, her father Larry and her sister Meredith, the Hotz family has been a part of the Denver community and selling real estate for decades, and all the while Elizabeth has maintained her infectious attitude, her care for people and the importance of her family.
Today Elizabeth was kind enough to share her experiences professionally, as well as her journey through motherhood, marriage, divorce, and the rediscovery of a personal spark that only the worst of times can hide from us. Her authentic nature and vulnerability in telling her story is on a level few reach, and she was kind enough to share with us what motivates her, the lessons she has learned over the years, and what her desires for the future are.
Her incredible story, starts now...
On today's episode of Mindset Matters, I was thrilled to sit down with one of the most authentic human beings I have ever met, my good friend and colleague Byron Stuart of Compass Denver. In a world in which the term bravery can be thrown around a bit loosely, Byron's is represented not only by his success and growth in the competitive real estate market - and also in the fact that he has jumped from a perfectly good airplane more than 10,000 times in his professional skydiving career.
That's right, as if trying to help people sell or buy a home in the Denver market wasn't anxiety creating enough, Byron's spends a fair amount of his free time flying freely through the skies of Colorado and around the world with a parachute strapped to his back and the pursuit of speed, amazing views, and as you'll hear - companions in the air, like your neighborhood falcon. His ability to guide a client is outmatched only by his ability to guide his body through the air at terminal velocity.
Along the way, Byron's pursuit of his best-self has always been evident, and his good nature and care for people is what has always drawn me to him and his story, and one that I felt people would be drawn to. His amazing story... starts now.
In today's episode I was thrilled to sit down with Chad Griffith, who along with his brother Dustin has created one of Denver's most successful and talented real estate teams.
Chad was kind enough to share his upbringing and how important his family was to his development, as well as her early journey into the world of sales, financial advising, and eventually his move into real estate. He also shared in insight into the habits and goals that keep him moving forward, the lessons he has learned over her nearly 20 years in the finance business, be it the Wall St and now Main St route, and what he has planned for the future.
An energetic man with a gift for telling his story... and that story starts now.
On today's episode of Mindset Matters we switched it up a bit. Ericka Holcomb is the owner and operator of Sweat with E, a fitness training operation that has become a fan favorite of some of my favorite friends in and around the real estate business.
Ericka has caught the attention of many in Denver through her charismatic style, her creative social media content, her vulnerability, and of course her ability to get the very best out of her client's fitness goals.
Ericka was kind enough to share her story, her successes and failures along the way, from marriage and an extremely successful business, to divorce, the impact of Covid on her business and the need to find herself and in many ways start over for the better.
Her story is incredible one... and it starts now.
On this week's edition of Mindset Matters, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two great friends and colleagues Scott McNeilly and Adam Lewis - both detectives at a police agency near the Denver Metro area and both licensed loan officers working to build a second career and business for the betterment of their family.
Today we hear the story of each of these amazing men, their journey as young men and the challenges each faced at a young age, their quest for purpose and the life changes that lead each of them into law enforcement. They were kind enough to share the lessons of 11+ years on the department, the mindset the career requires, and their discovery of what the next stages of their life look like.
Where they have been, where they are, where they are going... their story...starts now.
Today I was thrilled to sit down with my friend, colleague and real estate coach Sean Moudry, Sean is a veteran of the real estate game, having experienced the highs of mass production and the highest levels of coaching, to the crash of 2008 and the success and challenges of operating his own brokerage.
Fortunately for anyone listening, Sean was willing to not only share where he is in life now, but also a story of a troubled youth, overcoming trauma and pains that would break many people, and his own personal journey to understand where his value comes from and where his passion lies.
His story... starts now!
Today's episode of Mindset Matters has a special meaning to me, and I have a tremendous amount of gratitude that my friend Jon Mottern would sit down and share his story with me.
From the outside looking in, Jon is a husband, father, highly successful real estate agent and a extremely skilled mountain biker, among other accomplishments. From the inside looking out, Jon is a survivor, a champion of overcoming the most challenging and painful lessons a life can throw at us, and a man that has truly proven that we can fight back from the most brutal of circumstances.
His story...which I would not even pretend to be able to describe in words... starts now.
Thank you Jon
Today I thought it was time to share a bit of my own story and why Mindset Matters and the power of the human mind and spirit is so important to me. It is my chance to share a bit of vulnerability, a bit of humanity, and to express some thoughts that motivate me day in and day out.
Each and every week I have the honor of talking to people who have reached the highest levels of their craft. I have the privilege of hearing the stories behind what makes people tick, what drives them to be better, what brings happiness to their soul. I am grateful for their willingness to share so many intimate and special details about themselves. It is only right I do the same.
My story... starts now.
Today, I was so grateful to sit down with Michelle Berzins, one of the most successful yet grounded professionals you will ever encounter. Entering the real estate industry less than a decade ago, Michelle has built a business that rivals the most productive realtors in all of Denver, and she has done so in a very unique way and maintained such a special level of humbleness and humanity - all while being able to hold her own in any room as a complete badass.
In this episode, Michelle shares what motivates her, the decisions she has made in life to be who she is today, and how she has truly walked the walk as a student, teacher, practitioner and investor in the real estate and entrepreneurial world.
She is also one heck of a cook... and her amazing story, starts now!
Today I was thrilled to be joined by my friend Kevin Nydam with Thrive in Denver.
Kevin is not only a good friend, he is also a powerful example of entrepreneurial success while maintaining the highest level of integrity and a humble nature. His story of athletics as a youth and young man, to adult coaching, which lead to a real estate career founded on education and shooting his clients straight.
Kevin's quality extends far past his career, and today we discuss his mindset, best practices, and his thoughts on the current state of the real estate and financial market.
His story, starts now!
Today I was thrilled to have the privilege of sitting down with Michael and Ashley Sandoval of the Sandoval Team at Your Castle Real Estate... with a special appearance from their son Colton, who was hands-down the cutest guest on our podcast, ever!
Michael and Ashley have an incredible story of marriage, family, business and learning how to be both husband and wife as well as parents, while teaming up to build one of Denver's most impressive real estate businesses. From Michael's beginnings in real estate through flipping homes (among other avenues) to Ashley's background in social work (with extremely high levels of educational achievements to boot), these two bring a lot to the table and have morphed their skills into a unique style of leadership and creativity.
Their amazing story... starts now!
Today I was honored to sit down with Michele Ciardullo & Mor Zucker, friends, business partners and team leaders of Team Denver Homes with RE/MAX Professionals. Michele and Mor have built a relationship of trust, passion for the craft, mindset, and an ability to be relatable to both team members and clients alike.
Their individual and combined stories of entrepreneurship, to family and motherhood... to professional poker playing... to operating one of the most successful real estate businesses in Denver, Michele and Mor's story is an entertaining one from start to finish!
Their amazing story... starts now!
Today I had the opportunity to sit down with Jeremy Kane of eXp Realty, one of Denver's most talented and influential realtors, and also a man well tapped into the current climate of real estate from both a standpoint of what clients face, and also a leader in the industry and a mentor of fellow agents.
Jeremy and I wanted to record a special edition to Mindset Matters in order to address some specific issues affecting Denver, the nation, our industries, and to give prospective on what we see coming down the road in the real estate world.
Enjoy!
Today I had the pleasure of sitting down with Pamela Subry of the Subry Group. Pamela and her husband John have not only created one of Denver's most impressive real estate businesses, they have also created an amazing family filled with children, grandchildren, faith, and a bond that you will hear pour through her story.
From stories of childhood, personal growth, mother & grandmother hood, to one of the most unique wildlife stories (trust me) you will ever hear - Pamela shares what has made her the woman and successful entrepreneur she is.
Her story... starts now!
Today's episode is a special one for me. I am joined by a man who has had a massive impact on my life on and the life of so many others, my mental mindset coach James Bedwell. James is the owner and sensei of 29 Degrees of Gung Fu in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and his skillsets in martial arts and impressive to say the very least. As he has evolved as a man, leader and coach, James dove head first into the world of what he coins "mental martial arts" through an immense training regime he chose to take on.
In this episode we chat about what made and makes the man, his upbringing, his inspirations, his asperations. There are few people in this world that have had the impact this man has had on me - please enjoy the first of many conversations with him... starting right now!
On today's episode, I have the honor to sit down with one of the most energetic, genuine and successful people you will ever meet, Lori Abbey, owner of the Abbey Collection here in Denver, Colorado. Known by many who adore her as Mama Abbey, Lori tells her story of learning from and overcoming childhood challenges, to motherhood, to betting on herself on a mid-life career change that not only forever changed to course of her family's life for the better, but also lead her to be nothing short of a legend in Denver real estate.
Lori's energy, vulnerability and love for the people and animals she surrounds herself by is contagious.
Her story... begins right now!
On today's episode I sit down with Elise LaSasso, an incredible woman who has leveraged her talents in (among many others) design, creativity and humor to not only create one of Denver's most successful and fastest growing real estate businesses, and also a development company (Tuck Development) she teamed up with her husband to build, and to become one of the most authentic, engaging and both educational and humorous social media content creators you will find anywhere.
Elise's energy and adventure is something you will not want to miss!
Her story...begins now!
Today I had the honor to sit down with Michele Gwin & Ken Strecker, a dynamic duo of husband and wife, business owners and operators, and entrepreneurs. Michele is the owner of Gwin Properties RE/MAX Professionals, enjoying not only an immense amount of personal success, but also becoming a well-respected coach to her team and many other real estate professionals. Ken is the GM and a driving force behind Just Roofs & Gutters, a huge cyclist enthusiast, and along with his bride, the founder of Both Cheeks - a brand unlike any!
Michele and Ken share what motivates them, how they inspire each other and what excited them about the future to come. There story is one you will not want to miss!
Today I had the honor of sitting down with Allie Kirby, wife of one, mother of three, dog-mom of two, and one of Denver's more energetic and successful business owners and real estate agents. Allie shares with us her experiences with relationships, family, entrepreneurship, the challenges of finding balance, and a life filled with finding a way to find a way. Her story is one you will not want to miss!
Today I was honored to chat with Andrew and Wendy Weber, and amazing husband and wife team and owners of 6035 Real Estate in Colorado Springs. Andrew is a veteran of the Air Force, Wendy a veteran of both the Army and Navy, and today we will hear stories of their service, their business, their life as parents, professionals, and two of my favorite humans who you will quickly see are easy to love.
Today I have the honor of chatting with Tabitha Bartel, a friend, colleague and an inspiration to far more people than she herself may take credit for. One of Tabitha's super powers is her ability to share her vulnerability, and in this episode she shares with us the puzzles pieces that came together to create the amazing woman, wife, mother, realtor and business owner she is today.
From a childhood filled with challenges, including many nights where she didn't know where she would sleep, to meeting the love of her life and starting a family, to leaping into a new career and challenge head on becoming a mentor to so many...Tabitha's story and experiences are something you are not going to want to miss.
Today I have the privilege of sitting with Emmy Fletcher, a friend and very talented Realtor, and perhaps more importantly a seeker of knowledge, truth, spirituality and purpose. Emmy shares with us her journey, growing up as an inquisitive young woman, to a career in finance - to one of great success in real estate - while all the while feeling drawn to something greater than herself. She shows a rare quality in todays fast and furious world - one that asks the question... what makes us happy, what creates a world we want to live in, and how can we reach a place of feeling a peace within ourselves in a world that loves to tell us we are not enough.
In today's episode I chat with Matt Thomson, the Broker Owner of Fathom Real Estate in Colorado. Matt shares his story of faith, marriage, family, and his passion for a career that has seen him succeed in both his service to clients as well as his coaching and mentorship of countless real estate agents.
Today I am joined by my friend and talented Realtor Brooke Hengst. Brooke has consistently been a top producer in the real estate industry for over a decade, and her skill-set has evolved to her becoming a successful coach and more recently a published author. Brooke is also an amazing mother to twin daughters and the President of the Mile High Weimarner Rescue here in Denver.
Today I am joined by Nicholas (aka Nick) Butler, a friend on many levels and the owner of Fight Gravity Fitness. Having moved to Denver several years ago from the Illinois, Nick discovered a passion for fitness and nutrition that initially motivated him to open a private workout business from his home garage. Striving to help people and using the most creative ways to work with people, he conducted classes at nearby parks and utilized anything he could, including cinder blocks purchased at Home Depot to make a workout...work.
Through it all Nick has maintained a business through some of the most challenging years in human history, and held on to ideals that make him who he is today. You don't want to miss his story.
Today I am joined my my friend a colleague Sean Nealon, a successful realtor in the Denver area and just as importantly, a father to three young boys and a massive contributor to his community. Sean's journey of personal growth, career development and a passion for philanthropy is a story you are not going to want to miss!
In today's conversation I am fortunate to be joined by Jeff Plous, owner of Hatch Real Estate and genuinely one of the most elite (yet humble) real estate professionals in the Denver metro area.
Jeff is a husband, father, mentor, and much more - and today he shares with us some of his personal traits and experiences that have helped shape him into the man he is today.
In today's episode I sit down with former Marine officer turned real estate agent Drew Morris to discuss his incredible accomplishments, his tenacious mindset when pursuing his goals, and the insight into a proud military man adapting to become a husband, father and business owner.