What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Definitely working as a comedian. I wrote comedy, produced shows locally and did some traveling performing in other cities.

Where did you grow up?
Skokie.

Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to be an actor.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I snuggle with my sweet pups, Brooklyn the Great Pyrenees and Geoff the Beagle. They’re both a huge stress reducer!

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
I used to watch “I Love Lucy” reruns with my mom when I was little. Lucille Ball was a great comedic actress. The chocolate episode is truly iconic! She was an extraordinary businesswoman and very strong negotiator.
An exceptionally amazing woman!

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
Most of the city’s buildings were lifted 14 feet [in 1855] since they sat only a few feet above lake level with water and mud throughout the town.

What do you love most about the industry?
Seeing the excitement and happiness in my clients once a deal is finalized.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
My sense of humor and relaxed communication style. While I’m always professional, I find that infusing some lightness into what can be a stressful time for clients is a way for them to be more relaxed about the selling or purchase process.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Designating time for myself and sticking to the plan.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
I speak to everyone wherever I go. Show true interest in others and let the conversation evolve naturally. That’s when the magic happens and they will also show interest in you.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
I have given a loving home to so many rescue pups over the years. Helping them thrive and live amazing lives fills my heart!

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
Watching: “Better Call Saul,” “The Bureau,” the Marilyn Monroe documentary, “Hacks,” “Uncoupled,” “Grace” and PBS’ “Chicago Stories.” Reading: multiple online periodicals on the economy, real estate and luxury lifestyles. Listening: Apple News. Podcasts: “Estate of Mind,” “Over Ask” and Katie Lance.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
My absolute favorite is pizza at Spaca Napoli and Osteria Via Stato.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Chicago Board of Trade. It’s an Art Deco masterpiece.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was young and working in the deli department at a small grocery. It was my first day and someone asked for a pound of sliced turkey. As I was slicing it on the machine, I saw something red and realized I cut a polished fingernail and it fell into the turkey. Of course I had to pitch the turkey. And the job too!

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I performed comedy in front of live audiences … and people laughed. 🙂

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I love hiking in the Alps and other areas of Europe. For me, this is the most amazing way to connect with the outdoors and see things that just aren’t possible to see any other way. Crossing a glacier and seeing the Matterhorn on foot was a spectacular experience!

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Take your brokerage’s training, work open houses, ask questions.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. There’s so many great tips I’ve learned from them!

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Katie Lance, Shawn Achor, Bill Gates, Jessica Zweig, The Broke Agent and many others.