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SEPTEMBER 24-26, 2024
LONG BEACH CONVENTION CENTER
SPEAKER LINEUP
Learn from speakers comprised of top company executives, social media and marketing experts, successful practitioners, industry leaders and innovators.
Barb Betts
CEO, The RECollective
Barb Betts is a sought-after keynote speaker, seasoned real estate expert, passionate educator, and the CEO of The RECollective, a thriving boutique brokerage in Southern California.
Barb has delighted countless stages including, Inman Connect, WomanUP!, and at the National Association of REALTORS® Annual Conference. Whether she’s teaching on referrals, authenticity or leveraging relationships, Barb brings an honest, compassionate, and transparent approach to every single stage.
As a real estate professional, with over 20 years experience, Barb has mastered the ever changing real estate landscape and the balance of running a vibrant brokerage. Through her signature course, Real Estate By Relationship®, Barb educates business builders on the exact systems, processes, and knowledge necessary to succeed in any market.
Known to wow an audience, full of impact, and high energy, Barb can help any audience tap into their greatness and leave feeling empowered and with an action plan.
Barb Betts is a sought-after keynote speaker, seasoned real estate expert, passionate educator, and the CEO of The RECollective, a thriving boutique brokerage in Southern California.
Barb has delighted countless stages including, Inman Connect, WomanUP!, and at the National Association of REALTORS® Annual Conference. Whether she’s teaching on referrals, authenticity or leveraging relationships, Barb brings an honest, compassionate, and transparent approach to every single stage.
As a real estate professional, with over 20 years experience, Barb has mastered the ever changing real estate landscape and the balance of running a vibrant brokerage. Through her signature course, Real Estate By Relationship®, Barb educates business builders on the exact systems, processes, and knowledge necessary to succeed in any market.
Known to wow an audience, full of impact, and high energy, Barb can help any audience tap into their greatness and leave feeling empowered and with an action plan.
Kofi Nartey
CEO, GLOBL Real Estate + Development and Executive Director, Real Luxury Division North America
A leading authority on luxury real estate, Kofi Nartey is the Executive Director of the Real Luxury Division for North America. Also the founder and CEO of Globl Real Estate + Development, a private real estate firm based in Beverly Hills with billions of dollars in sales, Kofi has over 20 years of experience representing elite buyers and sellers of distinguished properties locally and nationally.
Prior to Globl RED, Kofi was the founder and national director of the Compass Sports & Entertainment Division, where he recruited and led a national group of vetted sport and entertainment specialists for four years. He previously served as the Director of the Sports and Entertainment Division for the boutique firm The Agency and was a top producer for Keller Williams, where he managed their Southern California luxury division.
Kofi attended and played football at the University of California at Berkeley, had a brief stint with the Raiders, and later completed his MBA in the Presidential and Key Executive Program at Pepperdine University.
Trusted and admired for his integrity, discretion, and insider knowledge, Kofi is sought out by discerning individuals, professional athletes, and entertainment figures looking for a high level of access and expertise.
A leading authority on luxury real estate, Kofi Nartey is the Executive Director of the Real Luxury Division for North America. Also the founder and CEO of Globl Real Estate + Development, a private real estate firm based in Beverly Hills with billions of dollars in sales, Kofi has over 20 years of experience representing elite buyers and sellers of distinguished properties locally and nationally.
Prior to Globl RED, Kofi was the founder and national director of the Compass Sports & Entertainment Division, where he recruited and led a national group of vetted sport and entertainment specialists for four years. He previously served as the Director of the Sports and Entertainment Division for the boutique firm The Agency and was a top producer for Keller Williams, where he managed their Southern California luxury division.
Kofi attended and played football at the University of California at Berkeley, had a brief stint with the Raiders, and later completed his MBA in the Presidential and Key Executive Program at Pepperdine University.
Trusted and admired for his integrity, discretion, and insider knowledge, Kofi is sought out by discerning individuals, professional athletes, and entertainment figures looking for a high level of access and expertise.
Rachel Adams Lee
Founder, The Rachel Adams Lee Group at Keller Williams
Rachel Adams Lee is just a small town girl making moves! She is a top 1000 agent in the US, a business coach and a mama of 3 boys. She runs four 6 & 7-figure businesses with her hubby and lives life on her terms! She loves helping others tap into their true potential and build the business of their dreams. Facts: Positivity is her jam. You can find her snuggled on the couch in yoga pants, hair in a messy bun with her laptop! She is 5ft tall, love all things social media, obsessed with having a healthy marriage, and thinks Nutella should be its own food group! Fun fact: She recently lost 50lbs in the last 7 months!
Rachel Adams Lee is just a small town girl making moves! She is a top 1000 agent in the US, a business coach and a mama of 3 boys. She runs four 6 & 7-figure businesses with her hubby and lives life on her terms! She loves helping others tap into their true potential and build the business of their dreams. Facts: Positivity is her jam. You can find her snuggled on the couch in yoga pants, hair in a messy bun with her laptop! She is 5ft tall, love all things social media, obsessed with having a healthy marriage, and thinks Nutella should be its own food group! Fun fact: She recently lost 50lbs in the last 7 months!
Jordan Levine
SVP & Chief Economist, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Jordan Levine is the Senior Vice President & Chief Economist at the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.), a statewide trade organization of real estate professionals with more than 200,000 members. Jordan is responsible for C.A.R.’s housing market and economic research as well as policy analysis for C.A.R.’s legislative and governmental affairs efforts. He has a passion for homeownership, fair housing, and housing supply, and regularly represents C.A.R. to its members, industry groups, policymakers, and in the media.
Jordan has a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a master’s degree with merit in International Economics from the University of Sussex. Prior to joining C.A.R., Jordan worked in consulting for clients ranging from cities, counties, and the state to private businesses and academic institutions.
Jordan Levine is the Senior Vice President & Chief Economist at the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.), a statewide trade organization of real estate professionals with more than 200,000 members. Jordan is responsible for C.A.R.’s housing market and economic research as well as policy analysis for C.A.R.’s legislative and governmental affairs efforts. He has a passion for homeownership, fair housing, and housing supply, and regularly represents C.A.R. to its members, industry groups, policymakers, and in the media.
Jordan has a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a master’s degree with merit in International Economics from the University of Sussex. Prior to joining C.A.R., Jordan worked in consulting for clients ranging from cities, counties, and the state to private businesses and academic institutions.
Marki Lemons-Ryhal
Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAiO), ReMarkiTable LLC and Podcast Host, Drive with NAR
Marki Lemons Ryhal is a licensed Managing Broker, REALTOR®, avid volunteer, Major Investor, President's Circle, Federal Political Coordinator, Podcast Host of Drive with NAR & Social Selling Made Simple, 30 times published author, and 6X International Best-Selling Author. Marki Lemons-Ryhal is dedicated to all things real estate. With 30+ years of marketing and education experience, Marki has taught over 1,000,000 people (face-to-face and virtually) since 1993. Marki holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from Chicago State University, a Master's in Business Administration from Saint Xavier University, and sixty-four real estate-related licenses, certifications, and designations
Marki Lemons Ryhal is a licensed Managing Broker, REALTOR®, avid volunteer, Major Investor, President's Circle, Federal Political Coordinator, Podcast Host of Drive with NAR & Social Selling Made Simple, 30 times published author, and 6X International Best-Selling Author. Marki Lemons-Ryhal is dedicated to all things real estate. With 30+ years of marketing and education experience, Marki has taught over 1,000,000 people (face-to-face and virtually) since 1993. Marki holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from Chicago State University, a Master's in Business Administration from Saint Xavier University, and sixty-four real estate-related licenses, certifications, and designations
Raymond Fraser
Owner/CEO, Coastline Companies
Ray is the accomplished Owner & CEO of Coastline Companies and a top 1% agent with 11 years of experience in the real estate industry. As a thought leader and entrepreneur, he has built and led a number of companies, including an 8-figure brokerage in San Diego, CA, achieving an impressive half-billion dollars in closed volume annually.
Ray has worked alongside industry leaders like Cody Gibson and Marc King to impact thousands of agents across the country, encouraging them to take consistent action with proven strategies to increase their sales production. As a national speaker and Board Director for the California Association of REALTORS®, Ray is focused on advancing the real estate industry and advocating for real estate professionals worldwide.
As an award-winning agent, business owner, trainer and coach, Ray has helped cultivate the next generation of leaders in his field to increase their production, start their own companies, and take on executive roles. Known for his tenacity and energy, he is passionate about helping agents in their pursuit of excellence and achieving their goals. Ray inspires agents to push beyond their limits, take bold actions, and embrace simple strategies to maximize their sales production and build lasting careers in real estate.
Ray's vision is to spark the light for other real estate professionals across the country, helping them realize their potential. He is dedicated to using his expertise to help agents who hear his message to leverage real estate as a vehicle for financial freedom and generational wealth. His dynamic presence and passion for the industry empower agents to excel and thrive in their professional journeys.
Ray is the accomplished Owner & CEO of Coastline Companies and a top 1% agent with 11 years of experience in the real estate industry. As a thought leader and entrepreneur, he has built and led a number of companies, including an 8-figure brokerage in San Diego, CA, achieving an impressive half-billion dollars in closed volume annually.
Ray has worked alongside industry leaders like Cody Gibson and Marc King to impact thousands of agents across the country, encouraging them to take consistent action with proven strategies to increase their sales production. As a national speaker and Board Director for the California Association of REALTORS®, Ray is focused on advancing the real estate industry and advocating for real estate professionals worldwide.
As an award-winning agent, business owner, trainer and coach, Ray has helped cultivate the next generation of leaders in his field to increase their production, start their own companies, and take on executive roles. Known for his tenacity and energy, he is passionate about helping agents in their pursuit of excellence and achieving their goals. Ray inspires agents to push beyond their limits, take bold actions, and embrace simple strategies to maximize their sales production and build lasting careers in real estate.
Ray's vision is to spark the light for other real estate professionals across the country, helping them realize their potential. He is dedicated to using his expertise to help agents who hear his message to leverage real estate as a vehicle for financial freedom and generational wealth. His dynamic presence and passion for the industry empower agents to excel and thrive in their professional journeys.
Jenn Herman
Globally Recognized Social Media Expert & Author
Jenn Herman is a social media consultant, speaker, and globally recognized Instagram expert. She is a sought-after and international speaker providing tips, resources, and training for organizations of all sizes that need to structure their social media strategies. Her business background includes Administration, Sales, Human Resources, and Marketing and she enjoys bringing all these skills together to help you grow your business. Jenn has been featured in Inc., Fox News, BBC News, Yahoo Finance, Entrepreneur, HuffPost, The Verge, CBS Radio LA, and numerous other podcasts and publications. She is the author of “Instagram for Dummies”, “Instagram for Business for Dummies”, and “The Ultimate Guide to Social Media Marketing”.
Jenn Herman is a social media consultant, speaker, and globally recognized Instagram expert. She is a sought-after and international speaker providing tips, resources, and training for organizations of all sizes that need to structure their social media strategies. Her business background includes Administration, Sales, Human Resources, and Marketing and she enjoys bringing all these skills together to help you grow your business. Jenn has been featured in Inc., Fox News, BBC News, Yahoo Finance, Entrepreneur, HuffPost, The Verge, CBS Radio LA, and numerous other podcasts and publications. She is the author of “Instagram for Dummies”, “Instagram for Business for Dummies”, and “The Ultimate Guide to Social Media Marketing”.
Stephanie Garcia
Live Video Strategist, Author and Host, Lights, Camera, Live
Stephanie Garcia is a live video strategist for brands and entrepreneurs–from moonwalkers to MasterChefs–who want to go from unknown to unforgettable. A digital marketing expert with 15 years of ad agency experience, she has helped thousands of her clients and students get on the Fascination Fast Track™ to ignite their ideas and become confident on camera.
With her proven system, clients discover how to create crave-worthy content, get audiences buzzing with excitement, and how to deliver a spell-binding presentation that hooks viewers in. Her client, MasterChef Claudia Sandoval, drove 178K downloads of her book from her first live stream within 24 hours. She’s also coached astronaut Jessica Meir and her team for a live interview in space.
Named one of the Top 50 Digital Marketing Thought Leaders by the University of Missouri St. Louis, her work has been recognized and awarded by Forbes, Online Marketing Media And Advertising, PR Daily, Forrester, and Gartner 1to1 Media.
She hosts Lights, Camera, and Live and co-authored Ultimate Guide to Social Media, published by Entrepreneur Press. She lives in San Diego, CA.
Stephanie Garcia is a live video strategist for brands and entrepreneurs–from moonwalkers to MasterChefs–who want to go from unknown to unforgettable. A digital marketing expert with 15 years of ad agency experience, she has helped thousands of her clients and students get on the Fascination Fast Track™ to ignite their ideas and become confident on camera.
With her proven system, clients discover how to create crave-worthy content, get audiences buzzing with excitement, and how to deliver a spell-binding presentation that hooks viewers in. Her client, MasterChef Claudia Sandoval, drove 178K downloads of her book from her first live stream within 24 hours. She’s also coached astronaut Jessica Meir and her team for a live interview in space.
Named one of the Top 50 Digital Marketing Thought Leaders by the University of Missouri St. Louis, her work has been recognized and awarded by Forbes, Online Marketing Media And Advertising, PR Daily, Forrester, and Gartner 1to1 Media.
She hosts Lights, Camera, and Live and co-authored Ultimate Guide to Social Media, published by Entrepreneur Press. She lives in San Diego, CA.
Gov Hutchinson
VP & Assistant General Counsel, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Gov Hutchinson is the Assistant General Counsel and has been with C.A.R. since 1985. Hutchinson manages C.A.R.’s Member Legal Services Program in Los Angeles, advises REALTORS® through the “Hotline” on all aspects of real estate law and trains/supervises other “Hotline” attorneys. Hutchinson received his Degree in History from Princeton University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. Hutchinson is a master instructor for the Education Division of C.A.R. with certification from the Bureau of Real Estate. He also regularly speaks to Associations of REALTORS®, affiliated trade associations, city and county bar associations and major real estate firms.
Gov Hutchinson is the Assistant General Counsel and has been with C.A.R. since 1985. Hutchinson manages C.A.R.’s Member Legal Services Program in Los Angeles, advises REALTORS® through the “Hotline” on all aspects of real estate law and trains/supervises other “Hotline” attorneys. Hutchinson received his Degree in History from Princeton University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. Hutchinson is a master instructor for the Education Division of C.A.R. with certification from the Bureau of Real Estate. He also regularly speaks to Associations of REALTORS®, affiliated trade associations, city and county bar associations and major real estate firms.
Tamany Hall
Owner, The Simple Touches
Hi, I'm Tamany Hall. I'm the owner of The Simple Touches and I've been surrounded by real estate since I was little. I grew up getting paid $5 an hour to put labels on postcards for my parents' farm!
My very first (real) job was at the front desk of their market center and I've had many roles within RE throughout my life (front desk, agents' personal assistant, auditor, assistant market center administrator, etc.) In 2001, my parents opened up the first Keller Williams brokerage in Northern California.
After graduating from UC Irvine with a mathematics degree, I was an 8th grade math teacher for 6 years, including a 4 year stint in Bogotá, Colombia.
Though I've always had my hands in the real estate world, being an agent has never been on my vision board.
However, I get lost in the creative pieces; I enjoy making things look appealing, consistent and interactive. Pair that with the unlimited potential of social media and my wheels just start turning.
Thus, The Simple Touches was born!
Hi, I'm Tamany Hall. I'm the owner of The Simple Touches and I've been surrounded by real estate since I was little. I grew up getting paid $5 an hour to put labels on postcards for my parents' farm!
My very first (real) job was at the front desk of their market center and I've had many roles within RE throughout my life (front desk, agents' personal assistant, auditor, assistant market center administrator, etc.) In 2001, my parents opened up the first Keller Williams brokerage in Northern California.
After graduating from UC Irvine with a mathematics degree, I was an 8th grade math teacher for 6 years, including a 4 year stint in Bogotá, Colombia.
Though I've always had my hands in the real estate world, being an agent has never been on my vision board.
However, I get lost in the creative pieces; I enjoy making things look appealing, consistent and interactive. Pair that with the unlimited potential of social media and my wheels just start turning.
Thus, The Simple Touches was born!
Mark Choey
Founder/CEO, Highnote
Mark is founder and CEO of Highnote (highnote.io), a new digital presentation and proposal platform for sales and marketing professionals. His prior experience as a top 250 US real estate brokerage (Climb Real Estate) founder, a top producing salesperson (#2 in condo sales in San Francisco), Masters in computer engineering, and experience with product design gives him unique insights into what makes for great software for the working sales and marketing industry.
Mark was co-founder of Climb Real Estate, a San Francisco Bay Area-based real estate brokerage known for its innovative business model and technology offerings. Mark led the business strategy and development of CLIMB since its inception in 2007 as a sales group then later as an independent brokerage in 2010 all the way to acquisition by Realogy/NRT, the nation's largest real estate brokerage in 2016. CLIMB was recognized among the top real estate brokerages in the San Francisco Bay Area and nationally recognized as a leader in innovation, marketing, and technology. While at Climb, Mark also founded Climb Labs (climblabs.com), the innovation arm of Climb Real Estate focused on new ideas in the real estate brokerage space. Mark has a Masters degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a specialty in neural networks and AI and has 2 patents.
Mark is founder and CEO of Highnote (highnote.io), a new digital presentation and proposal platform for sales and marketing professionals. His prior experience as a top 250 US real estate brokerage (Climb Real Estate) founder, a top producing salesperson (#2 in condo sales in San Francisco), Masters in computer engineering, and experience with product design gives him unique insights into what makes for great software for the working sales and marketing industry.
Mark was co-founder of Climb Real Estate, a San Francisco Bay Area-based real estate brokerage known for its innovative business model and technology offerings. Mark led the business strategy and development of CLIMB since its inception in 2007 as a sales group then later as an independent brokerage in 2010 all the way to acquisition by Realogy/NRT, the nation's largest real estate brokerage in 2016. CLIMB was recognized among the top real estate brokerages in the San Francisco Bay Area and nationally recognized as a leader in innovation, marketing, and technology. While at Climb, Mark also founded Climb Labs (climblabs.com), the innovation arm of Climb Real Estate focused on new ideas in the real estate brokerage space. Mark has a Masters degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a specialty in neural networks and AI and has 2 patents.
Giovanni Ruiz
Team Lead, REAL Broker, Gio Ruiz Home Team
Gio Ruiz, a San Diego real estate agent with 8 years of experience, leads the Gio Ruiz Home Team with a mission rooted in family legacy. Inspired by his grandfather, who immigrated from Mexico and built generational wealth through real estate, Gio is dedicated to helping clients create their own stories of financial empowerment and lasting family legacies.
Drawing from his personal history, Gio has embraced AI, analytics, and data to amplify his team's impact. In the past two years, he has produced over 400 social media videos, aimed at connecting with and educating families about real estate, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to begin their own legacy of homeownership.
As the 2023 President of the NAHREP North San Diego Chapter and a Union-Tribune voted San Diego Favorite Realtor in 2020, Gio blends community leadership with his passion for helping others achieve their real estate goals. His approach, which merges social media insights with a deep understanding of real estate knowledge, has made him a valued speaker and workshop facilitator throughout San Diego.
Gio's commitment to storytelling extends beyond real estate, as shown in his podcasts: "Manroom Radio" with over 100 episodes, and the former "Shootin' the Breeze with Gio Ruiz," which explored real estate topics.
Gio Ruiz, a San Diego real estate agent with 8 years of experience, leads the Gio Ruiz Home Team with a mission rooted in family legacy. Inspired by his grandfather, who immigrated from Mexico and built generational wealth through real estate, Gio is dedicated to helping clients create their own stories of financial empowerment and lasting family legacies.
Drawing from his personal history, Gio has embraced AI, analytics, and data to amplify his team's impact. In the past two years, he has produced over 400 social media videos, aimed at connecting with and educating families about real estate, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to begin their own legacy of homeownership.
As the 2023 President of the NAHREP North San Diego Chapter and a Union-Tribune voted San Diego Favorite Realtor in 2020, Gio blends community leadership with his passion for helping others achieve their real estate goals. His approach, which merges social media insights with a deep understanding of real estate knowledge, has made him a valued speaker and workshop facilitator throughout San Diego.
Gio's commitment to storytelling extends beyond real estate, as shown in his podcasts: "Manroom Radio" with over 100 episodes, and the former "Shootin' the Breeze with Gio Ruiz," which explored real estate topics.
Shelton Wilder
CEO, The Shelton Wilder Group
Shelton Wilder, CEO of The Shelton Wilder Group, is a leading luxury real estate agent in Los Angeles, known for her unparalleled discretion, deep knowledge of LA's diverse neighborhoods, and impeccable style. With over half a billion in total sales and $150 million in sales in 2022 alone, Shelton ranks among the top 250 realtors nationwide and has earned spots on the LA Business Journal's Top 100 and Forbes' Top 10 Business Professionals to Watch.
In addition to her real estate success, Shelton is highly active in her community. She serves on the Board of PS Arts, co-chairs the Express Yourself event, and leads her team in making birdhouses with attendees. Shelton also supports Alexandria House by providing thousands of dollars in holiday gifts for mothers to give to their children and organizes festive events with Icee trucks, acrobats, and tacos. She is also a donor to the Clare Foundation.
Shelton engages with her community through her social media initiative, Wilder Wednesdays, where she highlights local businesses and personalities. With 44,000 followers, she posts weekly funny videos and recently launched her podcast, Wilder Possibilities, featuring entrepreneurs discussing their pivotal business moments.
Shelton is part of REALM, a global networking group for agents that includes the global top 600, as well as hosting her own networking groups for local top agents. She also hosts a women's connecting group for entrepreneurs to support and inspire each other. Additionally, she gives all of the agents on her team a marketing allowance to host their own women's groups.
Shelton Wilder, CEO of The Shelton Wilder Group, is a leading luxury real estate agent in Los Angeles, known for her unparalleled discretion, deep knowledge of LA's diverse neighborhoods, and impeccable style. With over half a billion in total sales and $150 million in sales in 2022 alone, Shelton ranks among the top 250 realtors nationwide and has earned spots on the LA Business Journal's Top 100 and Forbes' Top 10 Business Professionals to Watch.
In addition to her real estate success, Shelton is highly active in her community. She serves on the Board of PS Arts, co-chairs the Express Yourself event, and leads her team in making birdhouses with attendees. Shelton also supports Alexandria House by providing thousands of dollars in holiday gifts for mothers to give to their children and organizes festive events with Icee trucks, acrobats, and tacos. She is also a donor to the Clare Foundation.
Shelton engages with her community through her social media initiative, Wilder Wednesdays, where she highlights local businesses and personalities. With 44,000 followers, she posts weekly funny videos and recently launched her podcast, Wilder Possibilities, featuring entrepreneurs discussing their pivotal business moments.
Shelton is part of REALM, a global networking group for agents that includes the global top 600, as well as hosting her own networking groups for local top agents. She also hosts a women's connecting group for entrepreneurs to support and inspire each other. Additionally, she gives all of the agents on her team a marketing allowance to host their own women's groups.
Armand Feliciano
FAIR Plan Representative | Partner & General Counsel, Public Policy Advocates
Feliciano’s keen understanding of California government and extensive political relationships were formed by working for the executive and legislative branches of state government. Armand served in the Governor’s Office as Deputy Legislative Secretary and in the Office of Attorney General as Deputy Attorney General. He also served as Legislative Budget Consultant for the Assembly and Senate Budget Committees in the California Legislature and was a California Senate Fellow. Prior to joining Public Policy Advocates, he served as Vice President of Government Relations for the American Property Insurance Association of America, the nation’s largest property casualty insurance trade organization. There he represented personal, commercial, and surplus line insurers in Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, and Utah. He is a board director for Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, a leading professional liability carrier in California. He earned his law degree from UC Law San Francisco (formerly Hastings College of the Law).
Feliciano’s keen understanding of California government and extensive political relationships were formed by working for the executive and legislative branches of state government. Armand served in the Governor’s Office as Deputy Legislative Secretary and in the Office of Attorney General as Deputy Attorney General. He also served as Legislative Budget Consultant for the Assembly and Senate Budget Committees in the California Legislature and was a California Senate Fellow. Prior to joining Public Policy Advocates, he served as Vice President of Government Relations for the American Property Insurance Association of America, the nation’s largest property casualty insurance trade organization. There he represented personal, commercial, and surplus line insurers in Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, and Utah. He is a board director for Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, a leading professional liability carrier in California. He earned his law degree from UC Law San Francisco (formerly Hastings College of the Law).
Julia Juarez
Deputy Commissioner of Community Relations & Outreach, California Department of Insurance
Juarez provides expert oversight for constituent outreach with federal, state, and local elected district offices and leads the Department’s expanded efforts to assist wildfire survivors, local governments, small businesses, and consumers in accessing the Department’s many services. Throughout 2019, she led the Department’s efforts to meet with thousands of consumers who have seen their insurance dropped due to the state’s unprecedented wildfires. Prior to working for the Department, Juarez was District Director for Senator Ricardo Lara, Press Secretary for Speaker Emeritus Fabian Núñez and Director for the Southern California Region of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, where she raised more than $2 million new funds for scholarships for local students pursuing a higher education. She has over 23 years of public and private sector outreach, education, and management experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University.
Juarez provides expert oversight for constituent outreach with federal, state, and local elected district offices and leads the Department’s expanded efforts to assist wildfire survivors, local governments, small businesses, and consumers in accessing the Department’s many services. Throughout 2019, she led the Department’s efforts to meet with thousands of consumers who have seen their insurance dropped due to the state’s unprecedented wildfires. Prior to working for the Department, Juarez was District Director for Senator Ricardo Lara, Press Secretary for Speaker Emeritus Fabian Núñez and Director for the Southern California Region of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, where she raised more than $2 million new funds for scholarships for local students pursuing a higher education. She has over 23 years of public and private sector outreach, education, and management experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University.
Stephen L. Young
Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of California (IIABCal)
Young provides counsel on all corporate legal matters affecting the non-profit trade association and its subsidiaries, represents the interests of independent insurance agents and brokers at regulatory hearings conducted by the California Department of Insurance and other state agencies, coordinates the Association’s involvement in litigation affecting insurance producers, and provides legal research and support to the Association’s legislative advocates. He has served on the Insurance Law Committee of the State Bar of California, was a charter member of the Agent and Broker Advisory Committee to the California Insurance Commissioner, and is a frequent speaker and author on legal and regulatory developments affecting the business of insurance. Prior to joining IIABCal, he was Western Region counsel for the American Insurance Association, and also worked at Cassel & Abraham, a San Francisco labor law firm representing employers. He holds a Juris Doctor Degree from The University of Kansas.
Young provides counsel on all corporate legal matters affecting the non-profit trade association and its subsidiaries, represents the interests of independent insurance agents and brokers at regulatory hearings conducted by the California Department of Insurance and other state agencies, coordinates the Association’s involvement in litigation affecting insurance producers, and provides legal research and support to the Association’s legislative advocates. He has served on the Insurance Law Committee of the State Bar of California, was a charter member of the Agent and Broker Advisory Committee to the California Insurance Commissioner, and is a frequent speaker and author on legal and regulatory developments affecting the business of insurance. Prior to joining IIABCal, he was Western Region counsel for the American Insurance Association, and also worked at Cassel & Abraham, a San Francisco labor law firm representing employers. He holds a Juris Doctor Degree from The University of Kansas.
Dalip Jaggi
Co-founder and COO, Revive Real Estate
Entrepreneur, technologist, and passionate business leader sum up the core of Dalip Jaggi, co-founder and COO of Revive Real Estate, a PropTech company with a goal to democratize house flipping. Since its 2020-inception, Revive has since become the smartest solution for homeowners to maximize their home’s sales value across the nation.
Dalip’s tie to real estate began when he served as the CTO for Rich Uncles, the first privately held real estate investment trust (REIT) for unaccredited investors. Rich Uncles enjoyed a successful exit in 2017 and went public in 2022 as Modiv (NYSE: MDV).
Dalip’s career started early on during college when he started an engineering studio, Devise Interactive. This is where his passion for technology came from where he built technology for several startups. Devise Interactive had an exit in 2018 to Vincit, a publicly traded international engineering studio.
Outside of his professional life, Jaggi attempts to have an activity-fueled lifestyle. He plays basketball, enjoys flag football on Sundays, and hikes with his German Shepard. But throughout it all, Dalip remains family-centric, recently becoming a father and continues to live in Orange County, saying it is "the best place to live."
Entrepreneur, technologist, and passionate business leader sum up the core of Dalip Jaggi, co-founder and COO of Revive Real Estate, a PropTech company with a goal to democratize house flipping. Since its 2020-inception, Revive has since become the smartest solution for homeowners to maximize their home’s sales value across the nation.
Dalip’s tie to real estate began when he served as the CTO for Rich Uncles, the first privately held real estate investment trust (REIT) for unaccredited investors. Rich Uncles enjoyed a successful exit in 2017 and went public in 2022 as Modiv (NYSE: MDV).
Dalip’s career started early on during college when he started an engineering studio, Devise Interactive. This is where his passion for technology came from where he built technology for several startups. Devise Interactive had an exit in 2018 to Vincit, a publicly traded international engineering studio.
Outside of his professional life, Jaggi attempts to have an activity-fueled lifestyle. He plays basketball, enjoys flag football on Sundays, and hikes with his German Shepard. But throughout it all, Dalip remains family-centric, recently becoming a father and continues to live in Orange County, saying it is "the best place to live."
Michael Martin
Co-Founder/Co-CEO, Sidekick
Michael is the Co-Founder/Co-CEO of Sidekick, a generative AI assistant purpose built for agents, teams and brokerages that was voted Most Innovative Use of AI in the 2024 Inman Innovator Awards. He has a diverse background in private equity, digital product design and development, and real estate technology. Michael graduated with High Honors from Dartmouth College and is a member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.
Michael is the Co-Founder/Co-CEO of Sidekick, a generative AI assistant purpose built for agents, teams and brokerages that was voted Most Innovative Use of AI in the 2024 Inman Innovator Awards. He has a diverse background in private equity, digital product design and development, and real estate technology. Michael graduated with High Honors from Dartmouth College and is a member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.
Neil Kalin
Assistant General Counsel, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Neil Kalin is the Assistant General Council and has been with C.A.R. since 1987. Kalin is the senior legal advisor to the Standard Forms Committee and author of amicus briefs for the Legal Action Fund program. Kalin received his Degree in Advertising from the University of Illinois and his Juris Doctorate from the UCLA School of Law. Kalin is the instructor for the Certified Forms Trainer program and public speaker on R.E. law for REALTORS® and attorneys. He is the editor of legal section of car.org, instructor at the C.A.R. Real Estate Mediation Center for Consumers and teaches the DRE-approved RPA class. Kalin is the co-author of the Real Property Journal, a Historical Overview, Seller and Broker Disclosures (2019) and Behind the Words of the C.A.R. RPA (2022).
Neil Kalin is the Assistant General Council and has been with C.A.R. since 1987. Kalin is the senior legal advisor to the Standard Forms Committee and author of amicus briefs for the Legal Action Fund program. Kalin received his Degree in Advertising from the University of Illinois and his Juris Doctorate from the UCLA School of Law. Kalin is the instructor for the Certified Forms Trainer program and public speaker on R.E. law for REALTORS® and attorneys. He is the editor of legal section of car.org, instructor at the C.A.R. Real Estate Mediation Center for Consumers and teaches the DRE-approved RPA class. Kalin is the co-author of the Real Property Journal, a Historical Overview, Seller and Broker Disclosures (2019) and Behind the Words of the C.A.R. RPA (2022).
Kathy Mehringer
Managing Director of Compliance & Risk Management, Compass
Born and raised in Southern California, Kathy Mehringer is a Real Estate Broker and Mediator certified through the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution in association with the Pepperdine University School of Law. She is a Court Qualified Expert Witness, an Arbitrator for the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) and holds the designations of Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Shortsale Foreclosure Resource (SFR), Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) and At Home With Diversity (AHWD).
Mehringer began her management career in 1988 and has managed multiple branch offices for high profile companies including Fred Sands Realtors®, John Douglas Company and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Westlake Village and Beverly Hills. As the former Vice President and Regional Manager for Fred Sands Kathy developed and supervised the company's training program and was the legal liaison responsible for forms and policy development.
Kathy Mehringer joined Compass in December of 2015 where she assumed the role of Broker of Record and Director of Risk Management for the Southern California, Northern California and San Diego regions. Her focus is on expansion, compliance supervision, educational outreach, risk management, professionalism, claims/dispute resolution as well as contract and transactional education.
Kathy has been a member of the California Association of Realtors® ("C.A.R.") since 1977 and currently serves as a State Director. Over the years she has held multiple prominent committee positions, most notably as chair and vice chair of the Standard Forms Advisory Committee. The committee is charged with overseeing the extensive library of forms utilized by agents throughout the state. Kathy also served on the Residential Purchase Agreement Study Group which was instrumental in providing direction for the past five revisions of the RPA currently used statewide prior to December 2021. In 2003 she was presented with the Realtor® of the Year award from Conejo Valley Association of Realtors® and in 2013 received one of C.A.R.’s highest honors when she was elected “Director for Life”.
Born and raised in Southern California, Kathy Mehringer is a Real Estate Broker and Mediator certified through the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution in association with the Pepperdine University School of Law. She is a Court Qualified Expert Witness, an Arbitrator for the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) and holds the designations of Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Shortsale Foreclosure Resource (SFR), Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) and At Home With Diversity (AHWD).
Mehringer began her management career in 1988 and has managed multiple branch offices for high profile companies including Fred Sands Realtors®, John Douglas Company and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Westlake Village and Beverly Hills. As the former Vice President and Regional Manager for Fred Sands Kathy developed and supervised the company's training program and was the legal liaison responsible for forms and policy development.
Kathy Mehringer joined Compass in December of 2015 where she assumed the role of Broker of Record and Director of Risk Management for the Southern California, Northern California and San Diego regions. Her focus is on expansion, compliance supervision, educational outreach, risk management, professionalism, claims/dispute resolution as well as contract and transactional education.
Kathy has been a member of the California Association of Realtors® ("C.A.R.") since 1977 and currently serves as a State Director. Over the years she has held multiple prominent committee positions, most notably as chair and vice chair of the Standard Forms Advisory Committee. The committee is charged with overseeing the extensive library of forms utilized by agents throughout the state. Kathy also served on the Residential Purchase Agreement Study Group which was instrumental in providing direction for the past five revisions of the RPA currently used statewide prior to December 2021. In 2003 she was presented with the Realtor® of the Year award from Conejo Valley Association of Realtors® and in 2013 received one of C.A.R.’s highest honors when she was elected “Director for Life”.
Jess Lenouvel
Founder & Visionary, The Listings Lab
Jess Lenouvel is a renowned public speaker and real estate marketing expert. She founded The Listings Lab and authored the best-selling book "More Money, Less Hustle: Becoming the 7-Figure Real Estate Agent". With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Jess built a multiple 7-figure real estate business, selling over $300 million worth of property in her last 5 years alone. However, she realized that the old-school way of real estate marketing was not sustainable and scalable. So, she dedicated herself to learning digital marketing strategies and became obsessed with improving her business. Today, Jess and The Listings Lab team mentor thousands of agents across North America, teaching them how to effectively market their business and attract their ideal clients without constantly hustling and grinding for success.
Jess Lenouvel is a renowned public speaker and real estate marketing expert. She founded The Listings Lab and authored the best-selling book "More Money, Less Hustle: Becoming the 7-Figure Real Estate Agent". With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Jess built a multiple 7-figure real estate business, selling over $300 million worth of property in her last 5 years alone. However, she realized that the old-school way of real estate marketing was not sustainable and scalable. So, she dedicated herself to learning digital marketing strategies and became obsessed with improving her business. Today, Jess and The Listings Lab team mentor thousands of agents across North America, teaching them how to effectively market their business and attract their ideal clients without constantly hustling and grinding for success.
Brittani Tom
President & Founder, My Marketing LLC
Brittani Tom is a highly accomplished real estate marketing professional with extensive experience in direct marketing and process development for an impressive 5,000+ properties, ranging from luxury residential to commercial across California. As President and Founder of My Marketing LLC, Brittani has spearheaded innovative marketing solutions that earned her firm the title of Real Estate Marketing Firm of the Year - California in 2023 by Innovation in Business Media Innovator Awards and Real Estate Marketing Firm of the Year, 2024 by Corporate LiveWire.
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of La Verne and a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from California Polytechnic State University, Brittani blends academic rigor with hands-on expertise. She is also a Certified Luxury Marketing Specialist and holds a certification in Applied Data Science from M.I.T., allowing her to deliver cost-effective, data-driven strategies that address the unique challenges faced by today’s buyers and sellers.
Recognized as a thought leader, Brittani has spoken at various industry conferences, sharing her insights on topics such as "Future Forwarding Your Business" and "Emotional Intelligence in Branding." Her dedication to advancing the real estate profession through innovative strategies and deep industry knowledge makes her a sought-after partner for brokerages and agents looking to elevate their business.
Connect with Brittani to explore how her unconventional lead generation strategies, including data-mining and GIS mapping, can help drive success in your real estate endeavors.
Brittani Tom is a highly accomplished real estate marketing professional with extensive experience in direct marketing and process development for an impressive 5,000+ properties, ranging from luxury residential to commercial across California. As President and Founder of My Marketing LLC, Brittani has spearheaded innovative marketing solutions that earned her firm the title of Real Estate Marketing Firm of the Year - California in 2023 by Innovation in Business Media Innovator Awards and Real Estate Marketing Firm of the Year, 2024 by Corporate LiveWire.
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of La Verne and a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from California Polytechnic State University, Brittani blends academic rigor with hands-on expertise. She is also a Certified Luxury Marketing Specialist and holds a certification in Applied Data Science from M.I.T., allowing her to deliver cost-effective, data-driven strategies that address the unique challenges faced by today’s buyers and sellers.
Recognized as a thought leader, Brittani has spoken at various industry conferences, sharing her insights on topics such as "Future Forwarding Your Business" and "Emotional Intelligence in Branding." Her dedication to advancing the real estate profession through innovative strategies and deep industry knowledge makes her a sought-after partner for brokerages and agents looking to elevate their business.
Connect with Brittani to explore how her unconventional lead generation strategies, including data-mining and GIS mapping, can help drive success in your real estate endeavors.
Jana Gardner
Senior Counsel, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Jana Gardner is a Senior Counsel who has been with C.A.R. since 2014 and teaches classes on disclosures and the RPA. You may have seen Jana hosting the C.A.R. RPA Spotlight series of webinars.
Jana Gardner is a Senior Counsel who has been with C.A.R. since 2014 and teaches classes on disclosures and the RPA. You may have seen Jana hosting the C.A.R. RPA Spotlight series of webinars.
Sara Sutachan
SVP and Chief Strategy Officer, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Sara is the Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer for the California Association of REALTORS®. As head of the department, she oversees the association’s research and economics, industry and broker relations, membership development, fair housing and DEI efforts, and its charitable arm, the Housing Affordability Fund.
Sara is highly involved in the association’s strategic planning and has created several programs and strategic initiatives for its members.
She is a Co-Founder of WomanUP!®, C.A.R.'s Women's Initiative, designed to close the gender gap in the leadership of real estate firms. In her passion to affect change in this arena, Sara is dedicated to the empowerment of women through research, professional development, events, mentoring, and creating a community of advocates and support.
Sara is also responsible for identifying, building, maintaining, and reaching out to California Brokers in order to gain insights and spot emerging trends in the industry. In this role, she helps the Association establish vision, identify new and emerging opportunities and relationships, and is responsible for implementing key strategic initiatives.
When Sara is not strategizing or implementing new ideas, sharing her knowledge from the stage, or co-hosting the WomanUP!® weekly show, you will find her out adventuring and enjoying life with her two amazing children and loved ones!
Sara is the Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer for the California Association of REALTORS®. As head of the department, she oversees the association’s research and economics, industry and broker relations, membership development, fair housing and DEI efforts, and its charitable arm, the Housing Affordability Fund.
Sara is highly involved in the association’s strategic planning and has created several programs and strategic initiatives for its members.
She is a Co-Founder of WomanUP!®, C.A.R.'s Women's Initiative, designed to close the gender gap in the leadership of real estate firms. In her passion to affect change in this arena, Sara is dedicated to the empowerment of women through research, professional development, events, mentoring, and creating a community of advocates and support.
Sara is also responsible for identifying, building, maintaining, and reaching out to California Brokers in order to gain insights and spot emerging trends in the industry. In this role, she helps the Association establish vision, identify new and emerging opportunities and relationships, and is responsible for implementing key strategic initiatives.
When Sara is not strategizing or implementing new ideas, sharing her knowledge from the stage, or co-hosting the WomanUP!® weekly show, you will find her out adventuring and enjoying life with her two amazing children and loved ones!
DRE Commissioner Chika Sunquist
Chika Sunquist was appointed Commissioner of the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) by Governor Gavin Newsom on November 28, 2023, and she assumed office on January 3, 2024.
Chika began her career with DRE in 2006 as a Deputy Commissioner in the Sacramento Enforcement office, where she investigated complaints against licensees and unlicensed persons and performed background investigations on license applicants.
In 2008, Chika transferred to DRE’s Mortgage Loan Activities unit, where she was involved in implementation of the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing (SAFE) Act and the licensing of mortgage loan originators. In 2015, she was promoted to Supervising Special Investigator over the Mortgage Loan Activities unit.
Since 2020, Chika has served as the Assistant Commissioner of Enforcement at DRE. She has been responsible for the overall management and operations of the Enforcement division.
Prior to joining DRE, Chika sold residential real estate as a real estate salesperson. She currently holds a broker license on government service.
Chika holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Languages and Linguistics from Georgetown University and an Associate of Arts degree in Administration of Justice from Sacramento City College.
Chika began her career with DRE in 2006 as a Deputy Commissioner in the Sacramento Enforcement office, where she investigated complaints against licensees and unlicensed persons and performed background investigations on license applicants.
In 2008, Chika transferred to DRE’s Mortgage Loan Activities unit, where she was involved in implementation of the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing (SAFE) Act and the licensing of mortgage loan originators. In 2015, she was promoted to Supervising Special Investigator over the Mortgage Loan Activities unit.
Since 2020, Chika has served as the Assistant Commissioner of Enforcement at DRE. She has been responsible for the overall management and operations of the Enforcement division.
Prior to joining DRE, Chika sold residential real estate as a real estate salesperson. She currently holds a broker license on government service.
Chika holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Languages and Linguistics from Georgetown University and an Associate of Arts degree in Administration of Justice from Sacramento City College.
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