EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE - ORANGE COUNTY, AUGUST 2021 by Executive Agent Magazine

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Executive Agent of the Month M a g a z i n e . O r a n g e

Olesya Drozdova

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ORANGE COUNTY BRANCH 320 Commerce | Suite 100 | Irvine, CA 92602

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Cover Story Olesya Drozdova Executive Agent of the Month Realtor® Olesya Drozdova has a motto she puts into action every day: “Making Homes Come True.” Olesya was born in Kiev, Ukraine, during the Cold War, just 60 geographic miles from Chernobyl. From a young age, she dreamed of home ownership.

25 Featured Professionals

08 Hanna Foo eXp Realty 4 Executive Agent Magazine

14 Jessica Thiele Coldwell Banker Roadrunner Realty

Content

August, 2021

EXECUTIVE

Exercise Emotional Control -Dr. Tony Alessandraa

AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

PRESIDENT & CEO EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Fred Arrias How Business Women Who Are Positive Thinkers Win -Roxanne BatsonPro -Steve Cook

VICE PRESIDENT GRAPHIC DESIGN Garon Arrias

EDITOR Trudy Vanderhoff PROFESSIONAL PROFILES H.K. Wilson

Listen While You Work -John BoeLike a Pro -Steve Cook

06 Get Things Done--Take 21! -Maria Graciae a Pro -Steve Cook

16 Speed, Convenience, Choice -Saul Kleing Like a Pro -Steve Cook

22 A Good Life Contains These 6 Essentials -Jim Rohnatating Like a Pro -Steve Cook

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Herbert Clark Charlene Gates John Harris Chris Richards Ronald Taylor Crystal Widen PHOTOGRAPHY iPhotography Studio Ian Wiant EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE PO Box 73384 San Clemente, CA 92673 Ph: (949) 297-8323 Fax: (949) 266-8757 Fred@ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com www.ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com © Copyright 2021 Executive Agent Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Executive Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

Executive Agent Magazine 5

Listen While You Work

believe that the earning potential for a salesperson is directly linked to the quality of his or her active listening skills. To listen closely and reply well is the highest perfection we are able to attain in the art of selling. An ancient Chinese proverb reminds us; “To listen well, is as powerful a means of influence as to talk well.” While everyone can benefit from this sage advice, these words of wisdom are particularly appropriate for professional salespeople. No sales rep has ever listened himself out of a sale. Would you consider yourself to be a good listener? How would your customers, business associates, friends, and family members rate your listening ability? Their feedback just might surprise you, because most people believe they’re much better listeners than they truly are. Poor listeners frequently confuse the physical act of hearing with the emotional art of listening. While hearing is a function of biology, active listening skills must be acquired and developed. In the selling process, when you talk you merely provide information, but when you genuinely listen you show respect, create trust, and develop rapport. Unfortunately, our educational system places great emphasis on speaking and writing, but not on the important skill of active listening. For example, I have a good friend with a PhD who speaks three languages fluently, but can’t listen worth a hoot. The good news is that it is never too late to begin working on

Executive Agent Magazine

improving your active listening skills… from the kitchen table to the sales table. Active listening is making a conscious effort to hear your customer’s words as well as to try and understand the total message being sent, both verbally and nonverbally. It requires you to listen not only with your ears, but also with your eyes. It’s important to monitor your customer’s body language gestures and look for congruency between his or her words, posture, movement, and tone of voice. Are you able to stay focused on your customer or does your mind wander? By giving your customer your full and undivided attention, you’re not only showing respect, but you’re also laying a foundation of trust and building rapport. Discipline your mind and put aside distracting thoughts. Each time you catch your mind starting to wander, “grab it” and immediately refocus your attention back to your customer. The best salespeople have a tendency to listen like a homicide detective and ask great probing questions to gain understanding and promote conversation. They don’t make assumptions, they summarize and seek clarity. An occasional question or comment to recap what has been said communicates that you understand the message. Until this is done, your customer will resist your input.

If you would like to improve your sales effectiveness, consider incorporating the following active listening tips into your sales presentation. 1. Face your customer and give him or her your complete and undivided attetion. 2. Show your attentiveness through your body language by sitting up straight, maintaining good eye contact, uncrossing your legs, unfolding your arms, and leaning forward slightly. 3. Minimize distractions by turning off your cell phone. 4. Respond appropriately to show that you understand by nodding your head in agreement. 5. Encourage your customer to give you more information by using open-ended questions such as “How did you feel when that happened?” 6. Keep an open mind and don’t jump to any conclusion or make assumptions. Wait until your customer has finished speaking before deciding that you disagree. 7. Don’t interrupt your customer when he or she is speaking.

8. Ask questions for clarification and periodically summarize comments. Paraphrase your customer’s key statements to make sure you didn’t misunderstand his or her point of view. Start with: “So if I’m hearing you correctly, you’re saying…” Where communication is poor, mistakes increase, relationships breakdown, and opportunities to make the sale are missed! If you want to enhance your professional image, strengthen relationships, and dramatically improve your sales effectiveness, I encourage you to listen while you work. “I only wish I could find an institute that teaches people how to listen. Business people need to listen at least as much as they need to talk. Too many people fail to realize that real communication goes in both directions.” - Lee Iacocca John Boe presents a wide variety of motivational and sales-oriented keynotes and seminar programs for sales meetings and conventions. John is a nationally recognized sales trainer and business motivational speaker with an impeccable track record in the meeting industry. To have John speak at your next event, visit www.johnboe.com or call 937-2999001. Free Newsletter available on website.

Executive Agent Magazine

EXECUTIVE AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

Written by H. K. Wilson

Hanna Foo “Putting Your Dreams In Action”

anna is an informed, proactive and results oriented Realtor®. Her approach is fueled by her upbeat, energetic presence and adventuresome spirit. Clients benefit from working with a professional who is both well-equipped and highly motivated to help them achieve their real estate goals. Growing up in Malaysia, Hanna always excelled in math and science. She earned a full scholarship and the opportunity to attend any university of her choosing in the United States. Hanna completed her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and went on to earn her master’s degree. Her journey then took her to Florida, where she spent her early career working for a large telecommunications company designing cellular phone technology.

Realtor® Hanna Foo has a mantra: “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me.”

“From there, I met my husband, got married and had kids. I decided to take a break to raise my three boys. I soon realized it was harder than engineering,” Hanna laughs. Hanna also decided to start investing in real estate. She managed the complex processes of buying, renovating and selling, even going so far as to find sources of private mortgage capital in the aftermath of the Great Recession. She was creative too — she hired human directionals to hold her open house signs. When her husband received a job offer in California, the couple decided it would be best to hire real estate representatives to handle their transactions in both Florida and California so they could focus on their relocation. “That’s when I really saw the value in using a Realtor®,” Hanna says. “From there, I just naturally fell into real estate.”

It’s no surprise that Hanna chose eXp Realty for its global reach and cutting edge technology. eXp Realty is the world’s fastest-growing cloud-based brokerage, with more than 50,000 professionals in 14 countries. “When I was in engineering, it was always a fast-paced working environment. I don’t like to wait to get things done. As soon as I got into the eXp virtual platform, I realized I had access to fast answers to every question I had. You can go into the system at any time and somebody will respond. That really sold me.” Hanna’s scientific mind and attention to detail are great assets to her real estate clients. “As an engineer, I learned to communicate very clearly from beginning to end. In real estate, I focus on my customer’s experience — it’s not just about sealing the deal. I’m very responsive. If you text me, I will text back in less than five minutes unless I’m on the road. Sometimes at 11:00 p.m. I’m running downstairs to the computer. If you want to have your own company, you jump out of bed when your clients need you. At the end of the transaction, I want them to feel they got what they wanted, and I want our relationship to continue after closing. When I feel I’ve been able to create that, I find great satisfaction.” According to Hanna, it’s important to pick a real estate professional that you’re comfortable working with and that you trust. “It’s not always about what company the agents works for or the commission. Real estate is a process, and you want someone you can bounce off ideas with and who will always put themselves in your shoes. I strive to take very good care of my clients for the money they are spending. I treat their money like it’s my own, like I’m buying the home with them. I don’t take their time and resources for granted.”

Hanna may be smart, savvy and hardworking, but she warns that she’s also “goofy and fun.” She is a Zumba instructor, which she says makes use of her natural ability to inspire people to join her in being playful. “My passion is dance, and I love teaching. I’m a very social person who believes in living life.” Hanna also loves being a mom and spending time with her boys, a 9-year-old and 7-year-old twins. Above all things, Hanna believes in showing up ready to work with a positive attitude. It is a legacy she continues from her parents, and one she believes has contributed to her success in all areas of her life. “My parents taught me my work ethic, and that if you fail, don’t blame anyone else. You have to be accountable. In real estate, people sometimes lose track of that one final goal. When someone says this is what I want, I make it my goal to get them there.” Hanna Foo eXp Realty 530 Technology Dr., Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 407.463.5842 Email: hannafoorealestate@gmail.com WEB: www.hannafoo.exprealty.com DRE # 02145345

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How Business Women Who Are Positive Thinkers Win

hink back. Who inspired you on your path to leadership? We are all inspired by someone, somewhere, along the way in our career. It could have been a parent, grandparent, boss, friend or someone we just read about. Regardless, they did or said something that motivated us to attempt to achieve more and dream bigger. Aren’t you thankful? When you look at the source of your inspiration, I believe you’ll find someone who was positive at heart. Someone who never talked about how hard life was and how difficult the journey would be, but instead they were the kind of person who demonstrated positive thinking. How do I know? It is because dull, ordinary thinking never inspires us. Neither does thinking that drags us through the mud of all that go wrong and all that is bad in the world inspire us. As you lead people, whether it be children or employees or managers, remember that what you think is what you get. If you are to inspire people to greatness, you must think greatly yourself. This can only be done through positive thinking. As Ann Moore, Chairman and CEO of Time, Inc said in a recent speech at the 7th annual Wharton Women In Business Conference, “All behavior emanates from the top and reverberates down the organization to the lowest level.” Positive thinkers win! So, if you realize that positive thinking inspires and you realize that inspiration is what leads to achieving success, then how do you keep negative thinking from invading your space? Mark Victor Hanson, a great motivational speaker, once said “If you hear that negative voice trying to stop you, just visualize putting a big red X through it.”

12 Executive Agent Magazine

My own belief is that we should start the day visualizing positive events. Before you go to work, or on your way, take a few minutes to meditate on what you ant to accomplish during the day. How will you do it? What is the best end result in your mind? Then see it. Feel it. Do it. You’ll feel the positive momentum the rest of the day. It does make a difference. By the way, there is a new World Positive Thinkers Club for those who want to expand their horizons and join the ranks of positive thinkers around the country. Check it out at www.worldpositivethinkersclub.com. Ken Bossone took 10 years of research and discovered the three word motto all Positive Thinkers have imbedded in their hearts, minds and souls that leads to constant winning and happiness. There are now over 500 members of the club in the professional sports and business world.” All Ken’s research resulted in this book ‘Why Do Positive Thinkers Win’. It is being considered right now for the shelves of libraries around the country. And remember, that it is you and your thinking that will help you achieve whatever it is that you are looking for in life. I hope you see a future full of lots of positive outcomes! Roxanne Batson is Managing Partner of WSN Sales 75 LLC, a global marketing company and Co-Founder, WomenCorp, an international women’s leadership training company. She is a speaker, author and sales trainer with 25 years of experience in business development for companies such as Southern Living, Merrill Lynch and TurnerBatson Architects. Copyright© Roxanne Batson. All rights reserved. For information about Roxanne’s presentations, contact FrogPond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email Susie@ FrogPond.com; http://www.FrogPond.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 13

EXECUTIVE AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

Written by H. K. Wilson

Jessica Thiele Finding Your Niche in the Desert

or Realtor® Jessica Thiele, real estate is more than a career; real estate is a lifestyle. Growing up with her general contractor father, she says her idea of fun as a kid was roaming the aisles at Home Depot. The thrill of

When Jessica relocated to the Morongo Basin from Big Bear during the construction boom of the mid-2000s, she joined her father in building two spec homes. She was totally hands-on during the construction process. “I tied steel in the mid summer heat, ran electrical and ran a crane to stand the prefab walls,” she recalls. Since, she has overseen the construction of multiple spec homes and flips, and she has purchased, managed and sold multiple personal properties. Jessica brings this comprehensive experience to every real estate transaction she oversees for her clients. She maintains a well-rounded practice that includes single-family residences, land, commercial and multi-unit sales. “Because we live in a rural location, as a listing or buyer’s agent you must be an expert in all areas of real estate and know all avenues well. Serving from Morongo Valley to 29 Palms, this job stays exciting.” Jessica has achieved numerous sales awards, including Top Producing Agent at Coldwell Banker Roadrunner for the past four consecutive years. She was also recognized among the top 3% of global sales agents for Coldwell Banker in 2019 and 2020, and achieved the International President’s Circle in 2017 and 2018, to name just a few. Jessica’s accomplishments are particularly notable since her practice is located in one of Southern California’s moderately priced markets.

building and selling homes found its way into her blood early on, and it is a passion that inspires her career today.

Jessica loves everything about high-desert living, from the small-town culture to the natural beauty that stretches from horizon to horizon. The area’s famous Joshua trees — which are actually large succulents — add a texture to the landscape found only in this region of the world and Jerusalem. “You really get to know people here on a firstname basis,” she says. “We’re a tight-knit community. I also love that it’s not a rat race. It’s a pretty slow pace. We’re known for our night skies. It’s so quiet. It’s almost magical when you’re out in the desert.”

The area may run at a rural pace, but the valley is ideally situated only one hour from Palm Springs, an hour from the mountains and to the lower desert for larger shopping centers, two hours from L.A. and the beach, three hours from the river and four hours from Las Vegas. In recent years, the area has become home to many in the arts and entertainment profession who are looking for a quiet and more affordable place to create. This trend has accelerated since the pandemic. “We’ve had a crazy spike in buyers because everyone is realizing this is still one of the lowest cost areas in Southern California. Once people started working remotely, we had an even bigger jump in buyers. I have represented buyers from New York and San Francisco who have never seen the home because they had to have a place right away and trusted me to direct them to the right home. Joshua Tree is drawing people from the entertainment and art community and you see more families and military in Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms.” Jessica is the expert on everything the area has to offer. She recently launched a YouTube channel called “JT Vibes,” where she showcases the destinations, people and lifestyle that make the region so extraordinary. JT Vibes show is about everything living in and around the Joshua Tree area. One of her videos features the area’s top 13 photo ops, with contributions from Instagram influencers who have taken memorable shots there. Another exciting development she details is the new Project Phoenix in Twentynine Palms, a downtown revitalization project that will include a state-of-the-art community center and a new Joshua Tree National Park Cultural and Visitor Center. The site will also contain an entry plaza and event space. Jessica says new housing is sure to follow, making this city a great investment! As an active member of the community, Jessica is a Homes for Heroes affiliate. This organization provides special incentives for firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, military, healthcare professionals and teachers. “Heroes deserve their rewards,” she says. This is a place where people can create a lifestyle

uniquely their own. “There are endless possibilities with building here. Tiny homes, off-grid, hay bale homes, teepees, bubble homes — there are so many ways for people to express themselves with their home. And vacation rentals are in high demand.” The region is poised for further growth, and Jessica is ready to help her clients find their niche. Working in partnership with her clients, Jessica brings unrivaled professional expertise, local knowledge and personal connections that ensure both buyers and sellers a seamless real estate experience. A recent seller said: “Jessica was wonderful from beginning to end. She was always very professional, and she took the stress out of selling our house. She knew the local area and really got to know us and our home. She was always easy to contact and communicated clearly. Jessica answered all our questions, provided us with all the information we needed to make each decision, and she followed through with everything she committed to do. Our house sold quickly and for a great price thanks to her expertise. We highly recommend Jessica!” Jessica Thiele Coldwell Banker Roadrunner Realty 56809 29 Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 Tel: 760.669.7787 Email: j.thielerealestate@gmail.com Web: https://jessicathielerealtor.com DRE # 01957342

Get Things Done--Take 21!

ver begin doing something that you do for a few days, and then simply stop doing it?

For example, let’s say you promised yourself that you were going to file papers immediately before they got out of hand, but then something else came up, and the next thing you knew, you had another pile of papers that needed to be filed. Or perhaps, on January 1 you made a vow to yourself to exercise for 20 minutes every day. You exercised for a few days. But then, by January 5, you gave up. This happens to everyone on one occasion or another. But, you really can start getting things done! Next time you really want to do something, and you want to actually start and continue doing it, realize that doing it for one, two, or even three days in a row is usually not enough. It takes at least 21 days to form a habit. This means that you have to do something at least 21 times before it begins to become part of your everyday routine.

So . . . 1. Decide exactly what you want to do. Write it down and post it where you can see it every day, like your bathroom mirror. Be as specific as possible. 2. Schedule time to do what you want to do. Again, it takes 21 days to form a habit, so schedule at least 21 days on your calendar and don’t let anything get in the way of your schedule. If you miss one of your scheduled days, it’s best to start over and schedule another 21 days. You must be consistent and dedicated to doing what you want to do. 3. Once you reach your 21 days, congratulations! Don’t stop now though, schedule another 21 days, and then another and so on, until you do those things you want to do, without even thinking about them . . . like brushing your teeth. 16 Executive Agent Magazine

Maria Gracia is nationally recognized author, speaker, consultant, and professional organizer. She is founder of Get Organized Now!, specializing in helping people get better organized to live the kind of stress-free life they’ve always dreamed of and co-founder with husband, Joe, of Give to Get Marketing Newsletter. Want to get organized? Get your FREE Get Organized Now! Idea-Pak, filled with tips and ideas to help you organize your home, your office and your life, www.getorganizednow.com. Want Marketing Strategy Tips? Get complimentary Marketing Idea-Kit, www.givetogetmarketing.com. Copyright© 2004, Maria Gracia. All rights reserved. For information about Marcia’s Presentations and Consulting Services, contact the Frog Pond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email susie@frogpond.com; http://www.frogpond.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 17

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Exercise Emotional Control... W

hat causes an emotional overreaction? It’s generally prompted by the speaker himself or by something he or she says. For instance, going to an elegant party dressed like a bum might influence the hosts negatively. On the other hand, wearing a high-powered, Wall Street-like suit might put a rural businessperson on the defensive against a supposedly not-to-be- trusted city slicker.

Severe emotional overreaction can also be caused by loaded topics, such as ethnic, racial, religious, or political references. Differences in values, beliefs, attitudes, education, speed of delivery, image, and a host of other factors can cause a disruption in communication. So, as listeners, we tend to tune out when we see or hear something we don’t like. As a result, we often miss the true substance of what’s being said. When your emotional reaction begins, you’ll have an almost irresistible tendency to interrupt, to butt in, and to argue. You may feel your pulse speed up, your breathing become more rapid, or your face become flushed. You may lose your train of thought. Once you recognize this negative emotional reaction, you can redirect it with the following techniques: First, pause to delay your response or reaction. It’s the tried-and-true approach of counting to ten, or

20 Executive Agent Magazine

taking in some long, deep breaths. These can really work to calm you down. A second calming technique: Think about what you have in common with the speaker, rather than focusing on your differences. Maybe you don’t disagree with the person’s motivations-such as raising more money for the school. You just don’t agree with her solutions. And third, imagine yourself calm and relaxed. Think of a time in your past when you were laid-back, on top of the world, and feeling incredibly great. Visualize that experience as vividly as you can When you exercise emotional control, you’ll find that active listening is no longer a struggle. Dr. Tony Alessandra, CSP, CPAE has authored 13 books, recorded over 50 audio and video programs, and delivered over 2,000 keynote speeches since 1976. Dr. Tony Alessandra is recognized by Meetings and Conventions Magazine as, “one of America’s most electrifying speakers.” Copyright© 2004, Tony Alessandra. All rights reserved. For information about Tony’s keynote presentations, contact the Frog Pond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email susie@frogpond. com; http://www.frogpond.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 21

Speed Convenience Choice he Real Estate Professionals and companies that survive the major changes taking place in this industry are those that can quantify what they do and how they earn their money.

ever cleaned or painted a house for a client after a sale? Helped them move something...or something like that, an extra, that WASN’T in the listing agreement but you did it anyway? That’s “Value Added”

One method of doing this is to look at what consumers, not just real estate consumers, but all consumers are looking for today as they shop for products and services. These items can be referred to as “Consumer Demands” and when you look at what you do, how you do it, and how you market it, bring as many of these driving forces to bear as possible:

Discounts - If it is convenient enough, you will use a coupon. Lots of people look for discounts in everything they do. This doesn’t mean you should offer discounts, but you must be aware that for many this is a “driving force” so play to your strengths in your marketing Quality - Are you willing to pay more for quality? Many people are

Speed - think of fast food and 1 hour film developing. The quicker you can take care of the administrative aspects of a purchase or sale, the more valuable you are.

Service - think of Norstroms who prides itself in its service

Convenience - think of Seven Eleven stores. Also remember that people will often pay a premium for convenience. What do you do for the convenience and comfort of your clients?

Information - this is the age of information! Consumers won’t buy a toaster or a microwave without first buying a copy of Consumer’s Guide”, let alone a piece of real estate. Make it quick (speed) and convenient for your clients to access lots of (choice) information.

Choice - the more alternatives initially, the more consumers like it, but then they narrow it down. Don’t we all enjoy choice, from ice cream (31 Flavors) to Coffee (Starbucks). What can you do to give your client more alternatives.

Deliver the above at every available opportunity and your clients will not only love you, they will send you more business.

Value-added - people like to get MORE than they pay for, this is value added. Real Estate Professionals provide value added services everyday, but few take the time to re-enforce it to their clients. Have you

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Saul Klein is a principal of RealTown™, an Internet training, consulting, and publishing company. For additional information, please contact The Frog Pond Group at 800-704-FROG (3764) or email: susie@frogpondgroup.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 23

Know of a Realtor doing amazing things? NOMINATE them to be our next ®

Executive Agent of the Month

EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE

Olesya Drozdova Executive Agent of the Month

Olesya Drozdova “Making Homes Come True” Written by H. K. Wilson - Photography by Ian Wiant

ealtor® Olesya Drozdova has a motto she puts into action every day: “Making Homes Come True.” O lesya was born in Kiev, Ukraine,

during the Cold War, just 60 geographic miles from Chernobyl. From a young age, she dreamed of home ownership. “For the most part, we had all the same things American kids had. But ‘real estate’ did not exist in the Soviet Union. The core of the economy was totally different from capitalism. Everything belonged to the government, and you had a place to live, but

it was like it was leased to you at no cost. Group ownership comes with group responsibility, but no one is responsible. Knowing you have home ownership rights comes with responsibility to keep up our property. We were saying we would like to live like they live in foreign countries, where people take ownership of what they have. At 20, I started thinking what if we changed what we do and have some associations of homeowners. I was thinking about real estate and real estate law even back then.”

When Olesya immigrated to Hollywood in 1998, real estate was top of mind. However, she was diagnosed with leukemia shortly after her arrival. “When I say ‘God bless America,’ I mean it,” she says. “I was given a second chance here. I was given my life back. It would not have happened in Kiev. I consider this my true home — the place where I’ve seen my kids grow up and my grandchildren being born.” Olesya holds a bachelor’s degree in foreign languages from the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her languages of expertise include English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Latin, Old English and Gothic. While she initially went to work in the corporate environment, she was finally able to pursue her dream of working in real estate in early 2000s. From the beginning of her real estate career, Olesya

has dedicated herself to acquiring the highest level of knowledge, ensuring that she can deliver expert client advocacy no matter the transaction or market conditions. She has built collaborative relationships with peers and supporting professionals from lenders to accountants to attorneys, all of whom are equally committed to making homes come true. She also enjoys a professional partnership with fellow HomeSmart Evergreen Realty agent Jay Ramos-Co. Olesya’s passion is working with clients from around the world, and she says her success comes from understanding diverse cultures. “I do more education for clients from overseas in terms of their different mentalities and customs. There is more storytelling and educating people on how things are done here. Getting on the same common language of being a human being is so important — being able to listen to people and not jump to conclusions.”

Olesya’s professional affiliations, leadership roles, credentials and awards are too numerous to mention, but most recently, she was part of team to be named 2021 RISMedia Influencers/The Thought Leaders. The honor arose out of a collaboration that began in 2020. She and a group of industry colleagues — Spencer Hoo, Tricia Lehane, Yami Martinez and Karen Smith — began hosting global conference calls with peers, initially to offer support, and eventually, to share strategies and best

practices through the pandemic. Today, REAL Estate Pros Without Borders boasts more than 2,000 members from around the globe. “We now showcase different countries and their business environments, and we let members put their contact information into a database for networking sessions. It’s fun when you see transactions happening right in front of you with people who are connecting. We also do member spotlights to create those opportunities.”

Olesya’s clients are enthusiastic in their expressions of gratitude for her outstanding service. One stated: “I would give six stars if possible! I was looking for an Irvine\Orange County real estate agent to buy my first home and felt so lucky that I found Olesya. I was very unfamiliar with the whole process. She walked me through all aspects of buying a condo, went to open houses with me, helped me with all documents, questions and concerns. Even after the purchase was done, she was still looking out for me during closing every step of the way. Olesya is amazing! Thank you for everything!” A repeat client shared: “Olesya has been a pleasure to work with. She helped me find my first home many years ago, and when it was time to sell it, I knew who was going to be my agent. She had the expertise needed to meet my expectations, she was always there when I needed her and made sure I understood every step of the way. Her

patience and knowledge has made both purchase and sale an easy-breeze deal. I’ve been very blessed to have Olesya manage the sale of my property in such professional manner.” Olesya brings a global perspective and level of professional dedication to her practice that elevates the real estate experience for clients from first-time buyers to commercial investors. But it is her kind heart that makes the real difference. It is fitting that her name is a derivative of old Greek roots that means “protector of people.” “I always wanted to help others in whatever way I could. Seeing first-time homebuyers setting a goal and getting the keys to a house really makes me feel good. I always remember to have a heart first. It has reassured my position about everything in life.”

Olesya Drozdova HomeSmart Evergreen Realty 9901 Irvine Center Drive Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 949.836.1976 Email: olesya@realestatebee.com Web: https://realestatebee.com DRE # 01414206

“Billionaires Row” Spectacular two-story Mediterranean-style Villa offering 60’ of sandy beach frontage on famed Carbon Beach nicknamed “Billionaires Row,” with Catalina, ocean, and white water views from Palos Verdes to the Malibu Pier, and beyond. Located in the heart of Malibu, this elegant home with a lushly landscaped courtyard with Koi pond and stunning entry, offers high ceilings, old world stone floors, and French doors that seamlessly blend that perfect indoor/outdoor Southern California lifestyle. The main level offers a lavish spa, newly renovated chef’s kitchen with dual sided fireplace, two-guest suites, entertainer’s bar, and a spacious living room with an expansive patio for intimate and lavish entertaining. The entire 2nd floor offers an owner’s retreat with high wood ceilings, custom fireplace, lounge area, office, and terrace overlooking the courtyard, beachside balcony, and a large luxurious bath suite. There is a beautiful separate guest cottage with living/media $21,750,000 room and ocean views. 4 Beds | 4 Baths | 22102 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, Ca. 32 Executive Agent Magazine

Chris Cortazzo DRE # 01190363

Tel: 310.457.3995 chris@chriscortazzo.com https://chriscortazzo.com

Bruce Mibach DRE # 01991628

Tel: 310.819.5936 brucemibach@gmail.com Executive Agent Magazine 33

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An architectural triumph, 25160 Malibu Road showcases masterful craftsmanship and spectacular waterfront living. Envisioned by Scott Gillen of Unvarnished Co., the home features a dramatic great room with 12-foot exposed beam ceilings, hand-scraped oak floors and grand Fleetwood sliding glass doors that open to the shoreline. Wood accents combine with the fresh white color scheme. The custom gourmet kitchen offers European Caesarstone counters and Wolf appliances. 4 beds | 4.5 baths | 4,699 sq ft | 6,398 sq ft lot. Offered at $20,000,000

Sandro Dazzan

DRE # 01418033

t: 424 249 7040 | m: 310 435 7556 THE AGENCY Sandro@TheAgencyRE.com https://SandroDazzan.com Executive Agent Magazine 35

308 OCEAN AVENUE, SEAL BEACH

TIM SMITH ANDY DANE CARTER CalRE #01346878, CalRE #01907002

T: 949.478.2295, A: 562.397.1373 tim@timsmithgroup.com andycarterrealty@gmail.com

Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are Opportunity Act (23572295)

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Custom-built legacy estate situated on a rare double-lot delivering nearly 8,700 square feet of living, imported finishes, six bedrooms and a four-car garage on the beachfront. 308oceanavenue.com | Offered at $11,995,000

approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal

Executive Agent Magazine 37

Magnificent Multi-Level Estate 1105 Rivas Canyon Dr. Pacific Palisades, CA This Pacific Palisades residence combines classic detailing and quality finishes with an open, contemporary floor plan that invites gatherings large and small. Extraordinary indoor and outdoor living spaces are set on approximately 1.9 acres of mature landscaping. Refined interior treatments include vintage tin and hand-coffered wood ceilings, floor-toceiling windows and disappearing doors, and premium limestone and hardwood flooring. There are two full kitchens, a humidor, grand bar, home office/library, and screening room. Four bedrooms on the upper floor include a luxurious master suite with lavish bath and private view deck. Verdant setting includes a 40-foot hanging garden, detached home office/guest house, 20-foot custom-made exterior dining table, and Island Stone pebbled pool and spa. 3-car garage and large motor court plus second driveway for parking/maintenance. A magnificent achievement in an irresistible setting. $18,888,000 38 Executive Agent Magazine

Bob Hurwitz DRE # 00526195

Tel: 310.477.8865 Bob@thehjc.com

Executive Agent Magazine 39

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Tropical Encinitas Retreat 1115 Wotan Dr. Encinitas, CA 92024 This tropical retreat was newly constructed in 2017 and positioned to maximize the views of the Pacific. This exquisite gated residence features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths and 4,261 sqft. on nearly a ½ acre parcel, as well as a detached 1 bedroom and 1 bath casita. $4,999,000

Danny Davis

DRE # 01349327

Broker / Owner San Diego Brokerage Tel: 858-829-8888 Email: Danny@SanDiegoBrokerage.com Web: www.SanDiegoBrokerage.com Executive Agent Magazine 41

T h r ee A rc h Bay LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA Perched above the pristine beach of coveted Three Arch Bay, 92 South La Senda blends seamlessly into the natural beauty of Laguna Beach. Situated on a prime oceanfront lot on the most desirable street in Lower Three Arch Bay, this home embodies coastal ease. Well appointed home that lends itself to comfortable beach living the moment you enter your private gated property. 4 bedroom, 4 bath with an executive home office. Come live the California dream in this special neighborhood with private access beach, park with tot lot, tennis and basketball courts, and amazing community events that make this such an incredible place to call home. Offered at $10,950,000

Katie Houlahan DRE # 02005954 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Tel: 949.436.2833 katiehoulahan@me.com 42 Executive Agent Magazine

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Laguna Beach Coastline LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA Wonderful ocean and canyon view home recently remodeled featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths with stunning panoramic ocean views along the Laguna Beach coastline to be enjoyed from almost every room. A great location with close proximity to all Laguna has to offer with its fine dining, renowned art galleries, charming shops and beautiful beaches. 2455 Temple Hills Dr, Laguna Beach, Ca. Offered at $2,825,000

Shauna Covington DRE # 00991380 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

949.412.8088 direct shauna@shaunacovington.com http://shaunacovington.com Executive Agent Magazine 45

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Ocean & Bay Views 4214 Dakota Dr. San Diego, California Exceptional find! Sit-down panoramic ocean views & coastal lifestyle on 1.9 acres in the middle of the city! 1/4mi private hiking trail loop & natural paradise. Remodeled home with unobstructable ocean & bay views from almost every room & from the flat yard. Perfectly located on high point of canyon rim on a cul-de-sac street. Private park-like yard w/ producing fruit & nut trees, over 1,000sf of decks, playground area. Room for pool, boat storage, & ADU! Here you can have it all: west-facing ocean views, sun, shade, privacy, luxury, coastal breezes, nature, space, & convenience. $1,999,000 - $2,099,000

Melissa Goldstein Tucci Broker/Realtor Broker #01380034 COLDWELL BANKER Direct: (619) 787-6852 Email: Sold@MelissaTucci.com www.MelissaTucci.com OFFICIAL REAL ESTATE AGENT OF THE SAN DIEGO PADRES

Executive Agent Magazine 47

A Good Life Contains These 6 Essentials

he values that make up the foundation of a life well lived—and, no surprise, money isn’t one of them. The ultimate expression of life is not a paycheck. The ultimate expression of life is not a Mercedes. The ultimate expression of life is not a million dollars or a bank account or a home. The ultimate expression of life is living a good life. Here’s what we must ask constantly, What, for me, would be a good life? And you have to keep going over and over the list—a list including areas such as spirituality, economics, health, relationships and recreation.

Friends are those wonderful people who know all about you and still like you. I lost one of my dearest friends when he was 53—heart attack. As one of my very special friends, I used to say that if I was stuck in a foreign jail somewhere accused unduly, and, if they would allow me one phone call, I would call David. Why? He would come and get me. That’s a real friend—somebody who would come and get you. And we’ve all got casual friends, friends who, if you called them, they would say, “Hey, if you get back, call me and we’ll have a party.”

So, what would constitute a good life? Here is a short list: You’ve got to have both real friends and casual friends. 1. Productivity You won’t be happy if you don’t produce. The game of life is not rest. Yes, we must rest, but only long enough to gather strength to get back to productivity. What’s the reason for the seasons and the seeds, the soil and the sunshine, the rain and the miracle of life? It’s to see what you can do with it—to try your hand to see what you can do. 2. Good Friends Friendship is probably the greatest support system in the world, so don’t deny yourself the time to develop it. Nothing can match it. It’s extraordinary in its benefit.

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3. Your Culture Language, music, ceremonies, traditions, dress. All of that is so vitally important that you must keep it alive. The uniqueness of all of us, when blended together, brings vitality, energy, power, influence, and rightness to the world. 4. Spirituality It helps to form the foundation of the family that builds the nation. And make sure you study, practice and teach— don’t be careless about the spiritual part of your nature because it’s what makes us who we are, different from dogs, cats, birds and mice.

5. Don’t Miss Anything My parents taught me not to miss anything, not the game, the performance, the movie, the dance. Just before my father died at 93, if you were to call him at 10:30 or 11 at night, he wouldn’t be home. He was at the rodeo, he was watching the kids play softball, he was listening to the concert, he was at church—he was somewhere every night. Go to everything you possibly can. Buy a ticket to everything you possibly can. Go see everything and experience all you possibly can. Live a vital life. If you live well, you will earn well. If you live well, it will show in your face; it will show in the texture of your voice. There will be something unique and magical about you if you live well. It will infuse not only your personal life but also your business life. And it will give you a vitality nothing else can give. 6. Your Family and the Inner Circle Invest in them, and they’ll invest in you. Inspire them, and they’ll inspire you. Take care of the details with your inner circle. When my father was still alive, I used to call him when I traveled. He’d have breakfast most every morning with the farmers at a little place called The Decoy Inn out in the country where we lived in Southwest Idaho.

When I was in Israel, I’d have to get up in the middle of the night, but I’d call Papa. I’d say, “Papa, I’m in Israel.” He’d say, “Israel! Son, how are things in Israel?” He’d talk real loud so everybody could hear. I’d say, “Papa, last night they gave me a reception on the rooftop underneath the stars overlooking the Mediterranean.” He’d say, “Son, a reception on the rooftop underneath the stars overlooking the Mediterranean?” Now everybody knew the story. And giving my father that special day only took five or 10 minutes. If a father walks out of the house and he can still feel his daughter’s kiss on his face all day, he’s a powerful man. If a husband walks out of the house and he can still feel the imprint of his wife’s arms around his body, he’s invincible all day. It’s the special stuff with your inner circle that makes you strong and powerful and influential. So don’t miss that opportunity. The prophet said, “There are many virtues and values, but here’s the greatest: one person caring for another.” There is no greater value than love. So make sure in your busy day to remember the true purpose and the reasons you do what you do. May you truly live the kind of life that will bring the fruit and rewards that you desire. -Jim Rohn

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