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

I was a woodworker. 

Where did you grow up? 

Highwood/Highland Park. 

Growing up, what did you want to be? 

I wanted to be a rocker. 

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? 

Yoga, meditation, play music, do a puzzle, work out, read, hike, bike, listen to podcasts, get radically thankful! 

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? 

Bruce Springsteen. I feel like I know him well and we are brothers with different mothers. 

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret? 

Not necessarily a secret, but we are fortunate to have a wonderful city plan; fabulous food, housing, hotels; great music venues, theater; and professional, high school and college sports. We are accessible to the country and world. Our real estate pricing has not overinflated. We are a great value! 

What do you love most about the industry? 

I am a people person. I have made hundreds of great relationships through this industry. Each day we can achieve great production by being of service to others. 

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? 

I listen. I am a problem-solver and a connector. My podcast has been a great way for me to tell my story through the stories of others. I realize that each day, we extraordinary people choose not to be ordinary. 

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? 

Keeping a consistent pipeline of motivated customers and clients. 

What’s your best advice for generating new leads? 

Be authentic. Listen first. Don’t focus on what is in it for you. Realize when someone entrusts you with representing them, it is a true honor. Honor that commitment with sincere hard work and empathy for your client’s situation. 

What has been your greatest accomplishment? 

My family. Susan, my wife, and our devotion to Hannah and Ava. All the sales and business success pales in comparison. 

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately? 

I love “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” and “All In with Chris Hayes.” I have been a Wayne Dyer/Brian Tracy/Jim Rohn/Brian Buffini junkie for a long time and still enjoy listening to their inspirations. 

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago? 

Shaw’s! All the great seafood — oysters, sushi — and bloodies! 

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? 

I love the Wrigley Building. 

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? 

I was a single waiter, and during a busy shift, the maître d’ “gave me away” to a woman celebrating her birthday. He had me leave my tables to go party with this large group. We ended up dating! 

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you? 

That I hitchhiked over 5,000 miles in my 20s. 

What is your favorite vacation spot and why? 

Santa Fe, New Mexico. I love the high desert: the skiing, the green chili! 

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? 

Have a burning-goal desire, create a business plan and work the plan! 

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

Crexi, CoStar, RPR. 

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media? 

My friends from grade school and high school. After them, my real estate friends and company mates.