For Ted Krzysztofiak, real estate isn’t just a career—it’s a reflection of grit, resilience, and ambition. Arriving in the U.S. in 1991 with his family, Ted’s story began with limited English, shared struggles, and a determination to make something meaningful out of life. “We had to support each other,” he recalls of his early days. Every dollar earned as a part-time worker or truck driver was crucial in keeping his family afloat.

Despite initial challenges, Ted found his way to the world of real estate—a decision sparked by an unexpected encounter with someone in the field. The transition wasn’t simple. Studying real estate law during truck stops, Ted juggled full-time trucking with a dream that had no clear path. “I passed the exam, sold my trucks, and jumped into real estate full-time with no knowledge of how to sell or even talk to people,” he shares.

That leap of faith didn’t come without hurdles. Ted vividly recalls his first eight months in the industry, which yielded zero sales. Instead of giving up, he doubled down. “I worked super hard. By the end of that first year, I sold 14 properties in just a few months,” he says, proving the value of perseverance.

What sets Ted apart is his approach to people. In an industry that often rewards extroversion and aggressive tactics, Ted found strength in listening. “Everyone told me I wouldn’t make it because I wasn’t talkative, but I learned the less I talk, the better I do. People want to be heard.” His calm demeanor and genuine care have not only built his career but also fostered lasting relationships with clients who trust him implicitly.

Ted’s story also illustrates the importance of pushing past comfort zones. “If you want something, start now,” he emphasizes. “In five years, you’ll regret waiting.” His advice resonates with anyone aspiring to make a big change—immigrant or otherwise. He believes in taking action and embracing the discomfort that comes with growth, whether in real estate, life, or even the skies.

Yes, the skies. Ted is also an aerobatic pilot and instructor, a pursuit born from a chance encounter with an instructor who offered him a ride. From gliders to high-intensity aerial maneuvers, Ted found parallels between flying and real estate: discipline, preparation, and the courage to trust the process.

Reflecting on his dual passions, Ted shares, “There’s a checklist for flying, just like in real estate. Follow the process, and you’ll succeed.” His meticulous approach is evident in his work, whether helping families secure their dream homes or guiding them through the complexities of wealth-building.

For Ted, real estate is more than transactions—it’s about changing lives. “We’re helping people build wealth, equity, and history. That’s something they can pass on to their children,” he says. His genuine passion for service extends beyond clients, inspiring anyone striving to carve out a better life.

As Ted continues to balance his thriving career, family ties, and ventures in Poland, his philosophy remains clear: work hard, stay authentic, and never stop learning. “If you put your heart into it, it’s going to happen,” he says. And with Ted, it’s clear that the sky truly is the limit.

Kasia Wrobel is not your average real estate agent. As a featured guest on the Real Estate Moguls Podcast, Kasia shares her journey into real estate, one defined by ambition, a love for people, and a drive to make a difference. Growing up in Chicago with Polish roots, she’s grounded in a deep sense of community and a fierce independence. Her background includes an accounting degree from DePaul University, a skill set that gives her a strong foundation to succeed in Chicago's competitive real estate market.

Kasia’s decision to enter real estate wasn’t traditional, and her approach to it is equally unique. With an academic background in accounting and a knack for numbers, she brings a level of financial literacy and analytical skill to the table. “A lot of agents don’t have a strong math background, so I bring something different to the table,” she shares, highlighting her edge in a business that often hinges on data and precision.

The choice to go into real estate didn’t come without doubts from others who viewed her as “just another agent.” But Kasia knew she wasn’t cut out for the standard 9-to-5, and she was determined to build a career on her own terms. “Helping someone buy a home, especially in America, is a huge accomplishment,” Kasia says. Real estate is more than just contracts to her; it’s about making dreams come true and building connections that last.

Networking has played a vital role in Kasia’s success, despite being relatively new to the real estate scene. Through events across Chicago, she’s learned that showing up with a smile and a willingness to connect can open countless doors. Admitting she’s naturally introverted, Kasia made it her mission to embrace these gatherings as a way to overcome any hesitation. “Every event has boosted my confidence—not just as a real estate agent, but as a person,” she reflects.

In the competitive Chicago real estate market, Kasia stands out for her personalized approach. When meeting new clients, she spends time learning their backgrounds, financial situations, and ideal locations before even starting the search. She specializes in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, connecting clients to resources, like mortgage lenders, through her network at Exit Realty Redefined. It’s this attention to detail and empathy for her clients that have quickly earned her a reputation for excellence.

When asked what advice she’d give her younger self, Kasia’s response is simple yet profound: “Just do what makes you happy.” She admits to feeling pressure to conform to the expectations of a traditional career, but she now recognizes the importance of following one’s own path. “If you have access to resources, go for your dreams, and don’t let anyone’s opinion hold you back,” she says, acknowledging that not everyone has the same opportunities, but that those who do should seize them.

Kasia’s path into real estate is also marked by her passion for people. She enjoys hearing about her clients’ backgrounds and creating bonds that extend beyond the transaction. Her goal isn’t simply to close a deal but to make the entire process feel personal and empowering. Through her work, she’s found that making people smile and creating positive experiences aligns perfectly with her own values and aspirations.

Kasia is a refreshing voice for anyone considering a career change or looking to bring more fulfillment into their lives. Her message is clear: follow your instincts, don’t be afraid to go against the grain, and always bring authenticity to your work. In doing so, Kasia has built a foundation for success that not only benefits her clients but also sets a new standard in the industry.

In Kasia’s words, “Just show up and smile.” These simple actions can change your life in ways you never imagined, both personally and professionally.

Tanya Diaz’s path into real estate was anything but conventional. Growing up, she was surrounded by a family steeped in hard work and resilience. Her father, a contractor and part-time investor, introduced her to real estate early on. She fondly recalls afternoons spent watching him work, and long drives around the city as he pointed out different properties. This exposure planted a love for real estate in Tanya, but it wasn’t until much later that she followed it as a calling.

Before making her mark in the industry, Tanya held down a job in accounts payable at a hospital. The corporate world was stable but didn’t quite ignite her passion. As she became more drawn to real estate, Tanya made the leap, taking classes and getting licensed. Not long after, she joined the small but ambitious team at Realty of Chicago, where she quickly moved up the ranks and grew with the company.

Tanya’s journey is a testament to the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Despite the comfort of her position at Realty of Chicago, she felt a pull to pursue something different. After five years with the company, she decided to take a bold step—launching her own brokerage. It was a move driven not only by her ambition but by her desire to balance her career with her responsibilities as a mom to three teenage boys.

For Tanya, each professional step is also a family decision. With her husband David, a former Olympic boxer, Tanya chose to build something that worked for their family. This meant scaling back in some ways but staying true to her values. “You have to step outside your comfort zone,” she says, advice she gives not only to her children but also to other women around her. For Tanya, surrounding herself with strong women—especially Latina women—has been a source of strength. She explains how watching the accomplishments of others motivates her to raise her own standards.

The strength of Tanya’s network is clear. When she branched out to create her own brokerage, support followed her. Agents she had mentored over the years began reaching out, asking to join her new venture. What started as a small operation quickly became a close-knit team, more like a family than a typical brokerage. "When you’re with people who uplift you, it makes a difference,” she says. For Tanya, this family atmosphere fuels her desire to continue growing and providing opportunities for those around her.

Tanya’s success is a reflection of her belief in continuous growth. Recently, she received an offer to return to Realty of America (formerly Realty of Chicago) in a new capacity as Illinois’ designated managing broker. For her, this role was an ideal blend of familiarity and challenge. In her new position, Tanya not only manages a growing team but also brings a new set of opportunities for her agents, including revenue shares and stock options—something few brokerages offer at this scale.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Tanya credits her resilience and the unwavering support of her family. From helping her father on construction sites to launching her own brokerage and, now, taking on a significant role at Realty of America, Tanya’s journey is one marked by a willingness to evolve. “There’s no growth in the comfort zone,” she shares, a principle that has guided her through every step of her career. In an industry constantly changing, Tanya embraces the unknown with confidence, always ready to redefine what success looks like.

Her story is an inspiration to anyone feeling “stuck.” Tanya reminds us that growth often comes through surrounding ourselves with those who push us to be better. Her advice? Don’t fear the challenges. Take a leap, even if it’s uncertain. For Tanya, each risk has paved the way for something greater, proving that success isn’t just about achieving goals but also about the courage to pursue them in the first place.