What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
I ran an outsourced global IT call center that supported almost a million end users in 30-plus countries around the world. Never a dull moment!

Where did you grow up?
Western Chicago suburbs, born and raised. I was born in Winfield, moved to West Chicago, then to Warrenville, then back to West Chicago.

Growing up, what did you want to be?
I always assumed I was going to be a professional baseball player. Health and injury had other plans!

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Besides mindlessly scrolling through TikTok and all of the other social medias, I’m a huge music person. I can zone out to music for hours on end. Pop, country, metal, jazz, anything.

If you could meet any well-known figure, who would it be?
Keanu Reeves. I want to verify that he’s the coolest cat on the planet. He seems like the most collected, down-to-earth and compassionate public figure there is. If we’re including fictional characters, I’d go Ruth from Ozark (for obvious reasons).

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
In general, the combo Italian-beef-and-Italian-sausage sandwich. I feel like it’s the most underrated menu item in town that deserves much more attention and recognition. Throw some giardiniera on it, mmm, you’re set!

What do you love most about the industry?
Definitely the people. Whether that’s clients, other agents, partners, etc., nothing beats the continual interaction with different personalities. That, mixed with the ever-changing market conditions, make for no two days being the same! It’s certainly an industry that keeps you on your toes, and I love that.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
If it’s just a crowd of agents, I’m probably the one talking about my kids or my dachshunds. In all seriousness, I’m extremely aggressive. My clients all turn into family members when we start working together, and I’d do anything for my family. I’m aggressive and eager to please. I don’t consider a real estate transaction a business transaction. It’s so much more than that. It’s a bond for life.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Probably just planning around the financial uncertainty. It’s not a 9-to-5 or a biweekly paycheck, so real estate agents need to have a bit more control over their expenses. Closing a home every two weeks isn’t going to happen overnight, so being mentally and financially prepared for the turbulence early on is key.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
People won’t use you if they don’t know you’re in real estate. People also won’t use you if they don’t trust you. Don’t build acquaintances, build trusting relationships.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
My children. They’re my pride and joy. If we’re speaking in real estate accomplishments, I’d say being selected as a finalist for the Rookie of the Year award. I may not have won, but I certainly didn’t expect to be anywhere near where I am today in my first year of a new career. I’m humbled and blessed every day.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
My TikTok For You page! I just finished up the “Dahmer” series. Definitely don’t recommend sitting alone in a dark room with that one. Now that “Yellowstone” is back, I’ll be back on that bandwagon.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
Portillo’s big beef (or combo) with hot peppers and cheese fries. Nothing beats it.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Wrigley Field!!! Go Cubs!!

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was showing a home one day, and the owner was present, along with the listing agent. The owner had their TV blasting, and the listing agent never left our side. We opened a bedroom door, and there was a tenant standing there watching TV, no bed in the room, just a table. At the time, I had a listing that they were interested in and they cut our showing short to go tour the property I had for sale. It was so bizarre!

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
I’m deathly afraid of trampolines!

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I’m a beach guy, so anywhere with water and sand and I’m living the good life. I love playing beach games (volleyball, Frisbee) and just enjoying the sun with my family and friends.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
You control your own destiny. Work hard and get rewarded.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
HomeSnap, Remine, RPR and Forewarn! All must-haves, in my opinion.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Tim Tebow, Simon Sinek, Mark Cuban, John C. Maxwell, Patrick Lencioni, Daymond John.