What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?

My most interesting job before becoming a Realtor was being a mentor for at-risk youth. I worked for BBF Family Services on the westside of Chicago for four years. My job was to conduct home and school visits for my mentees. We set goals in place for each of them individually to either increase their presence in school, do better behavior-wise at home or to help them stay out of the eyes and hands of the law. I would show up for parent-teacher meetings and to court for those children who didn’t really have an active parental presence in their lives. I loved being a role model to those children. It makes me really proud to see them now doing better than they were when I first met them.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised on the westside of Chicago.

Growing up, what did you want to be?

Growing up I wanted to be a psyscologist and a wife. I really enjoy helping others.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
When I’m stressed, I like to have a glass of wine and meditate. I will also put on some Beyoncé, she keeps me motivated.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Wow this one is tough … I would have to say either Chris Brown or Regina King. As a music lover and dance-a-holic, I find Chris Brown’s style very unique and authentic. I’d choose Regina King because of another reason I’d choose Chris Brown: her work ethic is mindblowing. I don’t think many people really know how many projects she’s been involved in. From writing to directing and starring in so many TV shows and movies, she is a true definition of a BOSS.

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
Chicago’s best kept secret is ME!!! No, I’m kidding lol, but seriously I would have to say Lake Shore Drive. It doesn’t matter what the season is, the architecture that stretches from North to South on Lake Shore Drive is like no other. Not to mention, the sound of the waves from Lake Michigan is very soothing.

What do you love most about the industry?
What I love most about the industry is being surrounded by so many powerful women who are ready and willing to assist each other in leveling up in their career. There is so much room for us all to succeed.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
My personality is what distinguishes me from the crowd. My energy is always positive and upbeat. I greet everyone with the same smile and excitement, whether they are a new agent that just got licensed yesterday or a big-name agent.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The most difficult aspect of my jobs would be, and I think most agents would also agree with me when I say, time!!! I’m a mom of three children, a girlfriend, a multi-business owner and a Realtor. As I build my real estate career, I find it really challenging trying to balance all those roles and still find some me-time.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
I would say the best way to get new leads would be to constantly promote yourself. EVERYONE I come in contact with, I make sure to tell them I’m a Realtor! I’m also constantly promoting my business on social media.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is my three children. I can honestly say I raised some very intelligent and well-mannered children.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I binge-watched “This Is Us,” “A Million Little Things” and “All American.” I’m listening to “Evolve Your Brain” by Joe Dispenza … I really have about three of his books in rotation right now lol.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
My favorite is the chicken, steak and shrimp hibachi meal at New Star. It comes with rice, noodles, veggies soup and salad. I could never stop eating it.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Contrary to unpopular opinion, I think Trump Tower is a very beautiful building

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was showing an old house to a client and in the basement was a cellar with really creepy-looking, old pictures of dolls.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I can actually sing and rap fairly well.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
My favorite vacation spot is California! The state is very beautiful, the food is great and I love the ocean.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be open to learn, be coachable, network and be authentic!

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
The Homesnap app.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Chris Brown, Carrie Little, Riccardo Wardlow and my entire team (The Pinkney Team). They motivate me.