In our journey as investors, we naturally must take financial risks. After all, it's often said that risks are an inherent part of the game. However, it's the lessons learned from one of our early ventures that serve as a stark reminder of how unforgiving an industry can be.

Allow me to recount the tale of one of our first flip projects. The project was set to be a classic fix-and-flip scenario, a property renovation that should have taken no more than three months from start to finish. Our choice to collaborate with out-of-town professionals marked a critical misstep on our part. This decision placed us at the mercy of individuals who lacked reasonable skill and attentiveness. We found ourselves in a partnership with individuals who could be generously described as charlatans.

Managing delays, subpar workmanship, and miscommunication all hindered progress. It's said that adversity reveals true character, and this experience tested our mettle. Amidst the frustration, we were forced to reevaluate our decisions and confront the reality of our situation.

Despite the turmoil, we count ourselves fortunate in one respect: the project took only six months to complete and we lost less than $10,000. This experience, though irritating, provided us with valuable insights into the importance of due diligence, careful selection of partners, and the significance of expertise.

Our mishap highlights that real estate prosperity entails more than risk-taking. Success hinges on market comprehension, prudent partnership choices and adaptability in the face of deviations.

At the start of my journey into real estate, a significant professional challenge that I had to conquer was finding my place within the industry and aligning myself with the “right” people. The enthusiasm I had to succeed had led me to inadvertently irritate those around me, especially with seasoned agents who were perhaps less receptive to my eagerness, unless it directly benefited them. It was most apparent that my approach had caused friction rather than fostering cooperation.

As I continued to learn, I grew to learn that the issue wasn't about me at all; it was about the environment I was in and the people I surrounded myself with. It was disheartening to realize that, while people might be supportive of your success, they often prefer it to be within certain limits that don't overshadow their own achievements.

The path to this realization wasn't without its challenges. I had the experience of going through two brokerages, and in one instance, my departure was accompanied by bridges being set alight (which I’m quite alright with). It's important to clarify that I don't share this to boast about disagreements or clashes with those in authority; rather, I hope to inspire others to question the status quo. If a rule seems to hinder a standard practice, I advocate for digging deeper and crafting your business in alignment with your own vision.

The initial 3 years of my time in real estate were marked by struggles and feeling hindered in my ability to grow. However, this period of adversity was instrumental in helping me to recognize the significance of surrounding oneself with supporters, mentors, or peers who genuinely wish to see you excel. I learned that seeking out a community that fosters growth and collaboration can make an immense difference in your professional journey, both professionally and personally.

Ultimately, the challenge of navigating the dynamic of the industry has taught me the significance of authenticity but also has strengthened my resolve to forge my own path. I am now committed to creating an environment at our brokerage where success is celebrated collectively. My experience serves as a reminder to always question, learn, and find a community that uplifts and empowers you to overcome obstacles and reach new heights.

Becoming a licensed professional less than five years ago, I've grown with a greater understanding that the most tangible influence I could ever make on this community resides more in who I am, rather than what I do. The thread that runs through my proudest achievements in this career are not the awards I've received, the recognitions I've earned or the sales, but the unwavering confidence that I have made a positive impact so far on this journey. 

As a broker-owner and top-producing agent in Colorado Springs, it is not only my responsibility but my joy to enrich the lives of those who seek out the same success I have been blessed to experience. My desire to witness real estate agents demonstrate their strengths is not limited to those at Stone Gable, as I have built powerful relationships at all brokerages in the community. I deeply believe that greatness in life at all should be a collective experience, rather than an isolated attainment. It is a highpoint of mine to be part of a cheer section that urges everyone around me to surmount their limitations.

Equally significant is the opportunity to which this career has led me to. The saying “the more you have, the more you can do for others” is one that my husband and I share considerable guidance from. In my career, I have built a network that allows me to contribute to the larger benefit of a community I deeply love. Collaborating with those that share such passions, I have been able to play a cardinal role in bringing awareness to child trafficking and am one of six founding board members to create a Foundation strictly committed to assisting local organizations in the fight against such a horrific global phenomenon.

My career accomplishments that make me the most proud are centered on my invigorating sense of empowerment of others and constructing my network for the collective betterment. As someone may argue that these achievements do not reflect my career in real estate, it is contrary that my success in my career is the direct source in which I have been able to achieve what I am most proud of. As someone who loves this community and its people, I am committed to fostering a legacy of inspiration and empowerment.

The heartbeat of my existence is undeniably my family. My two kids, Cadence & Cooper, and my husband, Travis are the guiding force behind any decision I make, both personally and professionally. My ultimate source of joy is my A-team who fuels my desire to give them the best life possible in order to create unforgettable memories together and to stand by them through the happiest and most challenging times. Among all the priorities and aspirations that shape my world, they stand as my paramount treasure.

The most vital thing to me and everything I endeavor to achieve revolves around ensuring that my family is at the center of my universe. In particular, my dedication to being present in their daily affairs throughout their childhood is unwavering. Every opportunity that we take, every property that we invest, is with the intent to enrich our babies’ lives. From bedtime stories, future school projects, gymnastics meets and maybe soccer games - scraped knees to riding a bike, I don’t want to miss a beat.

In the tapestry of life, my family is the brightest thread, and I am resolute in my pursuit to be present in their lives throughout their childhood and beyond.

Continuing the tradition of a midwest summer with my Colorado family!

My favorite casual spot is Atmosphere Gastropub. 

It could be my strength in which I believe in others but it also might be my ability to fit into adult and kid-size shoes!

Pro Soccer player, but more specifically, I wanted to be Mia Hamm.

Thats Easy... "Champion" by Carrie Underwood & Ludacris