What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Served active duty in the U.S. Navy.

Where did you grow up?
Born in Humboldt Park until I was 10, then five years in Mexico, then high school in California.

Growing up, what did you want to be?
Astronaut, businessman/entrepreneur, athlete.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Walk the dogs or take the car out for a drive.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Present day – Keanu Reeves. Any era – Abe Lincoln. He was always learning, always curious and self taught. He failed so many times but failed up. He led the country in one of it’s most difficult times, when it was being torn in two, yet he saw the bigger picture – for the country and for humanity – and kept focused and kept leading. I’d like to understand his perseverance and determination in not letting the challenges or naysayers detract him.

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
We have so many trees, forest preserves and parks.

What do you love most about the industry?
Connecting people with their dreams.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I am not a sales agent; I am a counselor and advisor. People know what they want. My job is to help them understand it, find it and get it while reducing some of the stress and tension along the way.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Try all avenues and find which works best for you.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Racing on Team USA at the off-road triathlon World Championships.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
Deep dish at Pizzeria Uno.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Wrigley Building.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
In my previous career in HR, I spent a lot of time on Zoom calls. In one case, one of the participants’ spouses walked in to screen, not dressed for the office, if you know what I mean! There was an awkward silence, while everyone contained their laughter.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I am so calm, patient and funny.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Cruise ships, because of the variety of destinations and different culures on and off the ship.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Always be curious. Ask questions, explore, take in everything around you.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Canva, Remine and CRM.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Gary Sinise, Richard Branson, Barbara Corcoran, NAR, The Broke Agent.