by: Stephanie Gonzalez, CEO & Managing Partner Josh, my hubby, had a quote that was framed and hanging on his office wall, “You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.” He was the first person to introduce me to this quote from Charlie “Tremendous” Jones over a decade ago. Throughout our sixteen-year relationship he has introduced me to some amazing books, some of which have become my all-time favorites. These books have helped shape me as a woman and transform me as a business leader. In return, I have exposed him to lots of different people to learn about, lean into, and love as if they were family. This is one way – of many – we improve each other’s life. Great partnerships do not come easily or often. Unfortunately, souring partnerships is one of the main reasons why businesses do not thrive or survive. Great partners see you for who you are, lovingly give you a mirror to show you your strengths as well as your blind spots and ultimately champion you to fulfill your potential. Truly connected, candid and unconditional partnerships should be cherished. Most people would be lucky to possess one. I find myself having been blessed with two. Eight years ago, I found myself at a crossroads. I was feeling unsettled and unsatisfied with the outcome of my professional life. I was feeling anxious about the future of my career and was considering leaving a company to which I had devoted nearly a decade. In sharing my mental state with a mentor, he quickly moved into coaching, not coaxing, mode. As a great listener, he asked me a poignant and simple question, “Are you running away from something, or running toward something?” I must admit, in that moment, I was stumped. I paused and seriously contemplated my response. Nearly one year later in April 2014, I left my long-standing role at one of the top ten international brokerages and joined Brian North (and Michele Williamson who was already on the team) to build a new brokerage brand. April 2014 was the month that Brian looked me in my eyes, shook my hand and verbally declared me as his business partner in the brokerage. I vividly remember exactly where we were standing when that conversation took place. When Brian purchased the brokerage, it had 56 licensed agents (18 of which were full-time employees that did not transfer to the new firm). SO...on day one we kicked off our “under new management” brokerage with 2 employees, 38 agents, and a $100,000 loss from the prior quarter to climb ourselves out of. Each of the 38 agents, although unique as individuals, remained aligned in their pursuit to push the limits of their personal and professional potential; all having recently survived the worst real estate crash of our century. There was no doubt that we started a brokerage on the back of one strong, unified, beating heart. Today, our beating heart only grows stronger. Our vibrant culture is reaching a new apex for connectivity. We have 198 agents, 14 full-time employees, 3 offices and have been profitable since 2015. It was just announced last week that we were listed in the Real Trends Top 500 Brokerages, for the second year in a row (this was a personal mission for me, since day one). Out of 80,000 brokerages, we captured the #341 spot (a significant move-up from #421 last year). It is moments like this – where I take time to reflect on an anniversary – that I realize ALL we have accomplished. My 2021 year is already filled with high emotions as I am experiencing some of the best ‘firsts’ in my life both personally and professionally. All that I am experiencing this year fills me with gratitude towards Brian, our support team, our partners, and every agent who chooses to be here and engaged every day. Happy seven-year anniversary, Brian! Thank you for your trust, commitment, and unwavering partnership. You continue to help me shine brightly even when standing next to the sun! Running toward something every day, –Steph