One team, one contract, one unified flow, from initial concept through completion
www.cooperbuildinggroup.com
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!
ARCHITECT/BUILDER
Rodwin Architecture
Scott Rodwin (303) 413-8556 1245 Pearl St. Ste. 202, Boulder, CO 80302 RodwinArch.com
Home Warranty Inc. (260) 433-4027 homewarrantyinc.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
All County Property Management (720) 428-2100 www.AllCountyBoulder.com
RADON MITIGATION
Mile High Radon Control (720) 220-4063 milehighradoncontrol.org
REAL ESTATE MEDIA
EstateSnap Modern
Real Estate Media (303) 725-7316 www.estatesnap.org
TITLE INSURANCE
First American Title Insurance Company (303) 449-8442
4940 Pearl East Circle, Ste 104 Boulder, CO 80301 FirstAmColorado.com
WATCHES - RARE/ COLLECTIBLE
BOULDER COUNTY
John Mendez Publisher John.Mendez@ realproducersmag.com 303-596-1685
Kim Ash Ad Manager ads.rpboulder@ realproducersmag.com
Brian Stanley Photographer bwsstanley@hotmail.com
Christine Bowen Writer christinegbowen@gmail.com
Miranda Adame Photographer Miranda Adame Productions mirandaadameproductions@gmail.com
Beth McCabe Writer Beth.McCabe@n2co.com
If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at john.mendez@realproducersmag.com.
Dr. Felicia Santelli Writer drsantellifelicia@gmail.com
CHRIS MARTINEZ
MENTORSHIP AND GROWTH: CHRIS MARTINEZ’S IMPACT ON BOULDER’S REAL ESTATE SCENE
By Christine Bowen • Photos by Miranda Adame, Miranda Adame Productions
Christopher Martinez, a dedicated and dynamic REALTOR®, has made a significant impact in the Boulder area real estate market since moving here in 2008. Originally from South Texas, Chris moved to Colorado with his wife, Carrissa, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.
His journey into real estate was unconventional. Holding a Master of Science degree, Chris initially aimed for a career in education. However, the recession made job prospects in education bleak, prompting him to explore other avenues.
Upon relocating to Colorado, Chris worked in the before and after-school care program for the St. Vrain Valley School District. However, driven by a desire for growth and stability for his family, Chris took a position at the front desk of RE/MAX Alliance. Chris says, “I’ve always been driven to continually improve and achieve greater success, constantly striving to excel and be proficient in whatever I do.”
His potential was quickly recognized by seasoned agents, including Steven Noel, who encouraged him to pursue a career in real estate. With Steven’s
mentorship, Chris rapidly advanced, gaining invaluable experience and expertise. “Steven has been in real estate since 1976, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience. I feel incredibly fortunate that he chose to mentor me. Over the many years we’ve worked together, we’ve closed over 1,000 real estate transactions. There’s rarely a situation we haven’t encountered or don’t know how to handle,” states Chris.
Today, Chris and his team focus primarily on residential real estate across the Front Range. They also handle land development projects, demonstrating versatility and a comprehensive understanding of the market. For example, they are currently selling 26 one-acre lots in Frederick in a subdivision called Hauck Meadows. Chris’s commitment to his clients is evident in his emphasis on building long-term relationships, resulting in 71% of his business coming from past clients and referrals.
WE AIM TO
SUPPORT OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
AND ENSURE THEIR VOICES ARE HEARD.
Chris is proud to highlight his two team members, Kaylee Thurston and Joel Duneske. “Kaylee, with us since 2021, was an admin in 2016-2017. She has blossomed as a buyer’s agent and transaction coordinator. Her family is growing; she just got married and bought a house. She’s also active in the diabetes community, which is noteworthy,” states Chris.
Joel Duneske, who recently joined, has had his real estate license for a few years and owns an inspection business. His attention to detail and family commitment make him a great fit for real estate. Kaylee and Joel share a growth mindset and a commitment to serving others. Their team’s ethos is to serve their clients while fostering personal and professional growth. Steven helped Chris grow, and now he’s helping his team do the same. Chris says, “I wouldn’t be where I am without people like Steven, Kaylee, and Joel, who continually make me a better person.”
In terms of community involvement, their team developed a concept called Operation Support Local. Chris states, “We provide free marketing and videos for local businesses in and around Longmont, creating one to two-minute videos and 15 to 30-second reels they can use. We distribute these videos through our newsletters and social media, and we’re working on integrating them into our website. We aim to support our local community and ensure their voices are heard.”
Outside of his professional life, Chris is a devoted family man. Chris and Carrissa met while studying abroad in London, and she works at the University of Colorado in the International
Education department. They have two children, Grayson (13) and Elena (10), who keep them busy with their various activities. Chris says, “Our daughter plays piano, participates in volleyball, and is involved in musical theater. On the other hand, our son is the total opposite; he plays baseball, football, and basketball. They keep us on our toes, and every day brings a new and different schedule.”
The family enjoys skiing, attending local sports events, and exploring new cities and historical sites across the United States. Their most recent trip was to Charleston, South Carolina, where they delighted in the southern charm and rich history. They also travel a couple of times a year to Iowa to visit Carrissa’s family and to Texas to reconnect with Chris’s family.
Chris has been with RE/MAX Alliance from day one and has no intention of going anywhere. He says, “I prefer being a small fish in a big pond because it pushes me to improve and grow. Despite feeling slightly larger in this pond, there are much larger fish to aspire to. That’s why I appreciate being with RE/ MAX, one of the largest real estate brokerages globally. Excelling here means I can succeed anywhere.”
Furthermore, Chris wants readers to understand that they are not your typical pushy real estate agents. Instead, they prioritize education and collaboration. His goal is to change the perception of REALTORS®, as many people have a negative stigma about the profession. While there may be bad
apples, Chris wants to show that is not the norm in today’s real estate industry.
With a strong emphasis on building relationships and supporting others, Chris Martinez is not only a successful REALTOR® but also a mentor and community advocate, continuously striving to make a positive impact in both his professional and personal life.
highly exclusive tour offers a unique platform for real estate agents to not just showcase their high-end listings, but also to engage in valuable exchanges, and foster meaningful connections across brokerages.
Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour began with a clear mission: to create a venue for luxury agents to present their exclusive listings, receive constructive feedback, and network with peers. This vision has grown into a thriving community, enriching the professional lives of its members and elevating the standards of luxury real estate in Colorado.
FROM DREAM TO REALITY
Christy Watson and Jill Forman, both from KW Preferred KW Luxury, co-founded Hearth & Stone in 2020. Despite the initial setback due to the global shutdown just two weeks after its inception, they relaunched the tour in May 2023 with renewed vigor. Since then, the tour has featured 29 luxury homes and expanded its membership to over 50 agents.
2024-2025 Advisory Team: back row from left to right• Christy Watson, KW Preferred KW Luxury• Jill Forman, KW Preferred KW Luxury• Jenni Thompson, West and Main Homes• Kelly Atteridg, Remax of Boulder• Jen James, Jen James Realty• Carrie Nash, Highlands Residential Mortgage(Sponsor Liaison)• Christy Hepp, eXp Realty
“Seeing the vision of this luxury home tour come to life this past year has been a dream come true! Top-performing agents from multiple brokerages are collaborating on a monthly basis to create high value exposure for their clients’ luxury home properties. A huge shoutout and thank you to everyone at Boulder Real Producers for your continued support and dedication to excellence in this industry.”
— Jill Forman, Co-Founder and Tour Director, KW Luxury
MONTHLY TOURS AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
On the fourth Thursday of every month, the Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour meticulously handpicks three luxury properties that meet the stringent criteria for the tour. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., agents are not just given the opportunity to tour these properties, but also to network with their peers, receive updates on the luxury market from industry experts, and share their triumphs and challenges in the current market. Guests are welcome to attend two meetings before being encouraged to become a member to attend future meetings.
Members and guests provide feedback and vote for the Best in Show each month. The winner is prominently featured in Boulder Real Producers magazine in an upcoming edition. Additional exposure for qualified listings is also available on the Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour website, which is emailed out to all members. Members can also put their properties on the Hearth & Stone social media platforms.
A COLLABORATIVE ADVISORY TEAM
The success of Hearth & Stone is underpinned by its dedicated advisory team, comprising top-performing agents from multiple brokerages. This team emphasizes collaboration and teamwork, ensuring high-end marketing and continuous improvement of the tour.
Serving on the Advisory Board is a privilege. Jen James comments, “I am honored to serve on the Advisory Board for the second consecutive year. This opportunity allows me to continue collaborating with my esteemed colleagues who share a commitment to elevating the real estate industry. Our collective efforts focus on showcasing the finest properties and fostering cross-brokerage relationships that benefit both our clients and our profession.”
Carrie Nash noted the connection among real estate professionals in the area. She shares, “Throughout my 30-year career in the lending industry, I have seldom witnessed such
WHAT ARE AGENTS SAYING ABOUT HEARTH AND STONE LUXURY HOME TOUR?
“Being able to feature my luxury farmhouse listing in the Hearth and Stone Luxury Tour not only resulted in winning Best in Show but also secured a feature in Real Producers Magazine, impressing my clients and proving that investing in this marketing opportunity was truly worthwhile.”
-- Kiki Kidder
“The Hearth and Stone Tour was extremely helpful to me and my clients. Having that many experienced, luxury brokers give their opinion on price and marketing was a huge benefit.” -- Dylan Lario
“I was lucky enough to have two of my listings in Old Town Superior featured on the January 2024 Tour. The homes were newly completed modern homes in an area that had been devastated by the Marshall Fire. The tour was well attended and definitely helped expose these two beautiful properties to agents and buyers who may not have been familiar with what was happening in this part of Superior. Both homes sold fairly soon after the tour.”
-- Kelly Atteridg
“The luxury home tour was a game-changer for my listing. It provided unparalleled exposure to top-tier real estate professionals who truly appreciated the unique features and craftsmanship of the property. The feedback from these experts was overwhelmingly positive, and we saw a significant increase in serious inquiries and offers. This event truly showcased the essence of luxury living and highlighted why this home was a standout in the market.”
-- Anne Carlson
a high level of cooperation and mutual respect among agents. It’s inspiring to see how these toptier professionals come together, setting a new standard for excellence. I am privileged and honored to serve on the Advisory Committee.”
HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
In the past year, Hearth & Stone has not only grown in membership but has also created a prestigious platform for luxury real estate agents to shine. The tour has become an essential event for those in the luxury real estate market.
Through the Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour, agents have become more unified and networked with one another. Christy Hepp shares, “Despite being a competitive bunch by design, we’ve embraced collaboration, shared ideas, and worked together to sell these properties. It’s proof that working together is better than working individually.”
WHAT ARE AGENTS SAYING ABOUT HEARTH AND STONE LUXURY HOME TOUR?
“Hearth and Stone Luxury Home Tour gave my Listings incredible exposure and valuable feedback! The tour also gives me credibility and market insights that I can discuss with my clients.” -- Jon Cole
“Being a part of the Luxury Home Tour is such an incredible way to collaborate with like-minded brokers to present Sellers with useful feedback and fantastic exposure.”
-- Barb Silverman
Jon Cole of Your Castle Real Estate also finds the Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour beneficial. He comments, “I joined Hearth & Stone to connect with other agents in the Boulder area, increase exposure for my luxury listings, and find opportunities for my buyers. I recently renewed my membership for a second year.”
BEST IN SHOW WINNERS
Each tour culminates in a vote for Best in Show, where the winning property and its listing agent are featured in Boulder Real Producers. This recognition highlights the excellence and dedication of the agents involved and underscores the high standards upheld by Hearth & Stone.
As Hearth & Stone looks forward to another successful year, the focus remains on fostering collaboration, showcasing exceptional properties, and elevating the luxury real estate market. The advisory team’s dedication and the growing community’s support continue to drive the tour’s success in Colorado’s luxury home market.
The Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour is not just an event; it is a community where
“Hearth & Stone provides important onsite exposure for luxury homes to a diverse group of REALTORS® in our market” -- David Scott
“I found great value in having the Hearth & Stone luxury home experts tour my client’s multi-million-dollar listing. Their collective feedback helped us refine how the home is staged, and how our marketing could be improved.” -- Brett Sawyer
“The Hearth & Stone Luxury Home Tour was a great addition to our marketing, bringing agents who would not have otherwise viewed the property.” -- Marie Callaway
“Having a property on tour is a great service for my clients. The tour gives a Seller quick feedback and perspective from a large group of agents familiar with luxury properties in the marketplace.”
-- Jenny Oliveira Getting
top- performing agents come together to learn, share, and succeed. Whether you are a seasoned agent or new to the luxury market, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow your business and elevate your professional standing. Join us and be a part of something extraordinary!
For more information on upcoming tours and membership, visit HearthAndStoneLHT.com. Be sure to check out upcoming tours on August 22, September (TBA-Sunset Celebration), October 24, and November 21. Don’t miss out on these luxury listings!
WHAT ARE AGENTS SAYING ABOUT HEARTH AND STONE LUXURY HOME TOUR?
“The exposure to my listing from the tour was fantastic. The feedback from the agents was timely and spot-on. I shared the feedback easily with my sellers, and they took it to heart, made some slight modifications quickly. We went under contract the very next week! Putting my home on the Hearth and Stone Luxury Home Tour made all the difference in getting my listing sold!” - Mary Ellen Wood
“Hearth & Stone is both a cost and time-efficient way of getting exposure to the right group of Realtors. It’s also a great source of honest feedback and suggestions from seasoned professionals to share with your sellers. Proud to be a part of this program.” -- Bob Dalton
“The Tour provided a wealth of helpful feedback from leading agents in our market which my sellers certainly appreciated.” -- Liz Benson
“Hosting my client’s home on the tour was such a benefit to my sellers. They had fifty agents in their home, giving specific and meaningful feedback and exposure that would be difficult to gather so quickly otherwise. We were able to secure a record-breaking price for a home sale in Superior within a few short weeks of the tour!” -- Christy Watson
“I am grateful for the agent to agent connections that I’ve made through Hearth & Stone Luxury Home tours and the quality feedback that the agents provided to my sellers.” -- Jennifer Kelly
“My Clients felt so honored to win “Best in Show” and with the Real Producers article, they now have a published keepsake to help remember their home.” -- Jenni Thompson
Save the Date for a Sunset Celebration
Top-producing agents will gather at the stunning Lionscrest Manor to mix, mingle, and tour this luxury listing.
Sept 10th 4-6:30pm
Lionscrest Manor
603 Indian Lookout Rd, Lyons, CO 80540
Hearth and Stone
Luxury Home Tour
Enjoy live music, wine, appetizers, and more as we celebrate our success and collaboration.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Agents, scan to register today. Limited tickets available.
Natasha Hubbard Natasha Hubbard
Story by Christine Bowen | Photos by Miranda Adame, Miranda Adame Productions
NAVIGATING LIFE & REAL ESTATE: THE NATASHA HUBBARD STORY
Roots run deep in Boulder County for REALTOR® Natasha Hubbard. Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, her family still lives in the house she grew up in. College took her to Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ and the following years she split between Arizona and San Francisco.
Before embarking on a real estate career, Natasha spent years in the restaurant industry, finding a passion for food and the vibrant restaurant scene that was downtown San Francisco in the late 1990s. Twentytwo years ago, Natasha made her way back to Boulder County to be closer to family.
The passion for food and cooking led to a short time with her own catering company. Then came the great financial meltdown and life changed overnight. Laid off twice in two years, she was left wondering what was next. “I found myself unemployed at 40, tired of working in restaurants and not wanting to work a typical 9-5 office job … I had a few months of unemployment left and even though jobs were hard to find, I found myself applying for jobs and hoping I would not get a call for an interview.”
What she didn’t know at the time was the tremendous gift right in front of her. “Who gets the opportunity to stop mid-life and truly evaluate who you are and where you want to be? This was an amazing opportunity to take the time to honestly evaluate my skills and put on paper what I wanted
realtor on the move
for my future. As it turned out, real estate checked all the boxes.”
Hubbard hangs her license in Longmont at RE/MAX Alliance. The decision was an intentional one. “I needed brand recognition. All anyone knew about me at that point was that I’d been in restaurants for years. I needed to connect myself to real estate.” After interviewing several agencies, the Longmont office of RE/MAX Alliance seemed the best fit. “I wanted to be in Boulder. I’m a Boulder gal and that’s where my family and my sphere were located. The owner/broker at the Boulder office of RE/MAX Alliance suggested I try the Longmont office, as that’s where I live. After some trepidation, it turned out to be a great fit.”
“You don’t always know going into things what you’ll need to be successful. I’ve been fortunate to find a brand and an office that shares my values and where collaboration, education
and high standards of ethics and best practices are encouraged. It can be hard to get your footing in real estate. To find success, for me, it has been crucial to work in an environment that brings out my best – sharing ideas, experiences and pitfalls. If you want to be the best, you need to surround yourself with the best.”
Real estate is about more than just selling houses – it is also a chance to be involved in the community you live in. In the early years, Natasha spent a lot of time at trade networking and social events and volunteering in the community through the REALTOR® Association and RE/MAX Alliance, just to stay in the mix. She has been active in the Longmont Association of REALTORS®, serving on the Board of Directors and as Chair. She says, “Staying involved and connected in your community is essential, especially during challenging times like COVID.” She has served on the Governmental Affairs Committee,
designed award-winning floats for the Community Service Task Force and holiday outreach for a local organization that serves children in transitional housing.
Natasha shares a personal story, “I got my real estate license at 90 days sober and have built a business on the principles of recovery, which has been amazing.” Service and community have always been a priority in her family and real estate has given her the opportunity to continue that legacy.
“What I love most about real estate is the freedom I’ve found to live a generous life of service.”
It’s also a way she’s been able to find her niche, sponsoring local events including Longmont Pride. When she isn’t working, Natasha spends time with family both in Colorado and Massachusetts and enjoys musicals, playing softball on a team she sponsors and writing -- she has edited two independently published books. A lifetime animal lover, she also fosters kittens with a local organization.
In the past several years Natasha has taken to traveling; some of the best trips have been the ones dictated by fare sales, seeing places she might not ordinarily seek out otherwise. “I love going places I’ve never been.” The past few years she’s traveled to Memphis, Isla Mujeres and Costa Rica. “It’s not always easy to get away when you work in real estate, but I have found it is the most assured way to get business. It’s like people have vacation radar and know when I leave town … and my phone starts ringing.”
Diversity in real estate isn’t just about demographics; it is about diversifying what you do. Successful agents often have varied portfolios, including rentals and renovations. ‘I’ve watched other agents that I respect buy and sell income properties and see that they are the ones who are successfully navigating the ups and downs of real estate.” Natasha recently bought her first rental property and ventured into renovations with a client contractor husband and wife team who have become friends as well as business partners.
“I value working with like-minded individuals who share my vision. Partnering requires alignment on various fronts; not every project makes the expected profit. Nonetheless, the freedom and financial rewards of these endeavors allow me to pursue other passions and contribute to my community. Real estate offers endless possibilities if you’re willing to explore different directions. We’ve just finished our third renovation and are working on the next one.”
Authenticity is key because, while marketing and strategies might be similar across the board, staying true to who you are will set you apart and help you connect better with clients. “There’s room for all of us in this business. You need to run your business in a way that reflects who you are. Clients who connect with you will come to you, and those who don’t aren’t your target audience anyway. Trying to appeal to everyone is a recipe for failure. It’s really about finding your niche and being okay with not being everyone’s cup of tea.”
Natasha has some words of wisdom to anyone entering the real estate business. “I would pass along what was shared with me: there are no shortcuts and no excuses. If you want success, be persistent and true to yourself. Trying to be someone you are not won’t work.”
Scott Rodwin, Owner
TWO BRAINS? REALLY! health and longevity
By Dr. Felicia Santelli
Have you ever had “butterflies” in your stomach? A “lump” in your throat? Have you ever been moved by a strong and undeniable “gut feeling” about something or someone? Few people would say they had an elbow feeling or a kidney feeling, but gut feelings are regarded as intuitive knowing and insight in many cultures around the globe. These gut thoughts and feelings are a physiological fact.
Rather than the one brain found in our head, scientists have revealed that we have two brains – the other one is located in the digestive tract. Known as the enteric nervous system (ENS), the ‘gut’s brain’ or the ‘brain in the belly’ is housed under the mucosal lining and between the muscular layers of the esophagus, the stomach, and the small and large intestines.
Amazingly, when scientists finally estimated the number of nerve cells in the gut-brain, they found it contained over one hundred million neurons – more than the number of nerve cells in the spinal cord. The implication here is that we’re housing a huge source of potentially untapped intelligence. What’s fascinating to note is that researchers have observed a greater amount of neural traffic from the gut-brain to the head-brain, than from the head-brain to the gut brain. In other words, rather than the head informing the digestive system what to eat and how to metabolize, the command focus is stationed in the belly.
Your gut clearly has a lot to say, and the head-brain happily listens.
Considering the above, the question arises: Is there a connection between anxiety, depression, stress, moods, i.e., the brain and the immune system?
When you’re stressed, your gut knows it—immediately!
It’s not just a stomachache that can sour your day. It’s much more!
There’s an ecosystem of bacteria and neural network operating in our guts. The enteric nervous system is a mesh-like network of neurons that lines the entire digestive track. It causes the sensation of nervous butterflies or a pit in your stomach that are parts of our stress responses.
It’s not a thinking brain—it does not reason, write poetry, or solve multi-linear regressions—but there is evidence that your gut’s health influences your mood.
No need to panic: This is not an alien takeover! Our gut bacteria have evolved with us since birth. They help digest our food and fight off unfriendly outsiders like viruses and molds. The bacteria communicate with neurotransmitters within our enteric nervous system that sends messages influencing the way we feel.
The digestive tract is lined with cells that produce and receive neuropeptides and neurochemicals, which are also found in the brain. These include serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and glutamate, many hormones and chemicals previously thought to exist only in the brain, were found to be active in the gut!
Low levels of serotonin and other related hormones, like dopamine, are believed to cause depression, anxiety, moodiness, and even some chronic illnesses. These hormones help us sleep and wake up energized. It is estimated that 90 percent of the body’s serotonin is made in the digestive tract.
The enteric nervous system (the gut-brain), and the central nervous system (the head-brain), share another similarity. In the sleep state, the head-brain moves through cycles of 90 minutes of slow-wave sleep frequencies, immediately followed by rapid eye movement (REM) sleep in which dreams are produced. The gut-brain also moves through a nightly cycle of 90 minutes of
slow-wave muscular contractions followed by brief spurts of rapid muscular movements.
In Japanese culture, the midsection is the seat of wisdom, physicality, and spirituality. It is called the Hara, the area around the navel. They refer to it as the place of higher thought.
Americans refer to the head as ‘command central’!
We point to the head when we say, ‘I know’, while the Japanese point to the belly. We acknowledge this with the expression: “You’ve got guts”, meaning there is a large amount of brain power in your belly!
No matter what you call it, it is smarter than you imagined and can change your metabolism and your life!
The gut is often a barometer of our emotions and stress. Those who suffer from peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn, upset stomach, etc. would agree. When we say we can’t ‘stomach’ a situation or something makes us want to ‘gag’ or we have ‘a knot’ in our stomach, we are expressing a mind-body sensation that comes from the enteric nervous system – the brain in the belly. The gut produces chemicals that are the substances found in prescription drugs such as Valium and Xanax! Your gut produces these drugs naturally!
food to ensure the nutrients and vitamins are absorbed appropriately.
Research is investigating how the second brain mediates the body’s immune response. They are learning how the trillions of bacteria in the gut “communicate” with the enteric nervous system of the second brain to help with immunity and good health.
That doesn’t mean that gastrointestinal conditions are “all in your head.” Psychology combines with physical issues causing pain and other bowel symptoms. Stress, depression, or other psychological factors can cause contractions of the GI tract, make inflammation worse, or make you more susceptible
Given the two brains’ commonalities, treatments for depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses that target the mind, can impact the gut. The enteric nervous system uses many of the neurotransmitters that the brain does.
The second brain doesn’t do complex thinking, but it handles the essential daily grind involved in digesting
If you want to improve your health, start with your gut. Our gut intelligence has been underused, and perhaps even dumbed down because of decades of poor food quality, stressful eating, and exposure to a toxic world.
It’s time to exercise your gut wisdom. Tune in to this part of your physiology. Ask your gut for feedback. Notice your gut feelings. What does your gut-brain say your body is hungering for? How does it assess the person you’re having coffee with? Again, the enteric nervous system is capable of its own unique kind of intelligence that’s different from head brain intellect. It has its own brand of smarts that are delivered via subtle sensations, curious feelings, instinct, and intuition.
So, do you have the guts to listen to your gut? Are you ready to listen to its whispers? And if so, what does your gut have to say to you?
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide any medical advice to any particular person. Each person’s condition is different, and the proper treatment depends on your own particular body and its needs. Consult a doctor or alternative medical practitioner if you feel you have a medical problem that needs addressing.
Adventure, Adversity, and Authenticity: Colleen Miller’s Path to Real Estate Success COLLEEN MILLER realtor to know
By Christine Bowen • Photos by Miranda Adame, Miranda Adame Productions
COLLEEN MILLER, A REALTOR® WITH THE IMPACT GROUP HAS A STORY AS DYNAMIC AND INSPIRING AS THE LANDSCAPES SHE NOW CALLS HOME.
Originally from Connecticut, Colleen’s journey from the East Coast to the heart of Colorado is one of adventure and resilience. Growing up in Connecticut, Colleen embodied the classic East Coast ethos. She pursued higher education in North Carolina at UNC Greensboro, where she met her husband, Shawn. The couple then moved to Charlottesville, Virginia, for a decade. During this period, Colleen estab lished herself as a successful wedding planner, orches trating events not just locally but even as far as Iceland.
In 2018, a camping trip in an old 1997 camper van through Colorado proved to be a turning point. Captivated by the state’s natural beauty and the experiences shared with their children, Colleen and Shawn decided to make Colorado their permanent home.
“As we were driving, our jaws were on the floor the entire time. We were having these incredible moments with our kids and had a big conversation: why do people wait to do the things they dream of? It’s always about waiting until retirement or some other
future time. We decided, why not now? So, we went for it, embracing a spontaneous approach and leaving it up to the universe, which is my style. My husband began casually applying for jobs on LinkedIn without much expectation. Then, as if by magic, he got a job offer that included relocation assistance—something that never happens.”
Initially, Colleen continued her work as an international event planner while gradually diving deeper into real estate, a field she had dabbled in while in Virginia. Moving to a new state with no established network was daunting, but Colleen’s passion for real estate drove her to pursue it full-time. By March 2020, she joined the Impact Team at Your Castle Real Estate, a top- producing team in the Denver Metro area.
Colleen’s transition to real estate was met with significant personal challenges. Shortly after leaving her corporate job to focus on real estate, the COVID19 pandemic shut down the world. Undeterred, she continued to build her network
In June 2020, Colleen faced another hurdle when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Colleen says, “I’ve been in remission for
even brought a fire truck and delivered burritos to everyone helping out. The support was unbelievable. My team was incredible; they rallied around me in the most amazing way.”
Colleen’s journey through cancer was marked by incredible support from her community. Her experience highlighted the importance of community and collaboration in real estate. She emphasizes that agents don’t need to compete but can support each other, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual success.
When asked what Colleen likes most about real estate, she answered, “I love meeting new people and helping them on their journey. I put my energy out there so clients know exactly what to expect when working with me. I’ve been fortunate to build great relationships with nearly everyone I’ve worked with—it’s about more than just transactions. I share their excitement on closing day or when they bring a new baby home. Building these friendships has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and within the real estate community. Every day feels like a gift.”
I enjoy road biking but don’t need to do a hundred-mile race. My husband is doing the Triple Bypass in July -- 120 miles over three mountain ranges. That’s great for him, and I’ll definitely be there to cheer him on.”
Every Thanksgiving, the family takes an annual trip with a simple rule: the destination must be within an eight-hour drive. They rent an Airbnb and fully explore everything the area has to offer. Last year, they went to Sedona. They also love taking their RV out for camping trips.
Colleen is also involved in various charitable organizations. She supports the 22q Family Foundation, inspired by her friend’s son, who has the condition. She sponsors The Sandlot, an adaptive baseball league in Boulder County, providing opportunities for children with various disabilities to participate in sports.
Beyond her professional life, Colleen is dedicated to her family. She and Shawn, an engineer, have two children—a 13-year-old son, Tiernan, and a 10-yearold daughter, Fiona. The family enjoys outdoor activities, reflecting the quintessential Colorado lifestyle. Colleen says, “I love being outside, whether it’s sitting on a patio with a beer or enjoying outdoor sports. I’m not an extremist, though. For instance,
Colleen’s experiences, particularly her battle with cancer, have deepened her appreciation for life. She advocates for valuing meaningful connections over material success. “Coming out the other side is really beautiful. Being authentic and comfortable with who you are is essential. I wish everyone could connect with that feeling,” she says. She has had countless people reach out to share what’s happening in their lives. Being a resource for them has become a significant part of her life. Understanding how tough it is to face difficult times, Colleen finds offering support to others deeply meaningful.
Colleen Miller’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, community, and authenticity. Her story, marked by personal and professional triumphs, inspires those around her. As a Realtor, she helps people find their homes, builds lasting friendships, and creates supportive communities. For Colleen, real estate is not just a career but a way to positively impact lives.
young age. At 21, he rewarded himself with his first Rolex, marking the start of a lifelong fascination with timepieces. “Even as a child, I was the kid in middle school and high school who
Discovering the World of Luxury Timepieces with Trusted Watch Dealer James Sinclair
Story By Christine Bowen
James Sinclair, originally from Boston, Massachusetts, has led an intriguing life that saw him transition from the RV industry to becoming a renowned watch dealer. Born and raised in New England, James spent the first two decades of his life in Boston before making a significant move to Tampa, Florida, in 1997 with his wife, Kristi. They settled in Tampa for nearly 20 years before another opportunity led them to Denver, Colorado, in 2016.
always wore a watch, viewing it as a piece of wearable art,” states James. This passion for watches evolved into a hobby of collecting and occasionally
After years in the RV industry, James’s wife Kristi, noticing his growing enthusiasm for watches, suggested he turn his hobby into a full-time business. Thus, Sinclair Timepieces was born in 2022. Named after James’s middle name, Sinclair Timepieces operates from their home office, offering VIP showings by appointment only.
Sinclair Timepieces specializes in sourcing and selling luxury watches, primarily brands like Rolex, Omega, Tudor, Breitling, and Grand Seiko. Most of their inventory is sourced from trusted and vetted dealers, with some pieces coming directly from authorized dealers. James emphasizes the importance of authenticity, ensuring that all watches sold are complete sets with box and papers, inspected thoroughly before reaching clients.
TIMEPIECES Sinclair
One of the unique aspects of Sinclair Timepieces is its business model. Operating without a traditional brick-and-mortar store, James can offer competitive pricing on luxury watches by avoiding the high overhead costs associated with retail storefronts. This approach allows him to build personal relationships with clients, many of whom are repeat customers or referred by satisfied buyers.
Due to supply and demand dynamics, James has an advantage in sourcing the specific watch a client wants. He says, “Here’s what happens when you want to buy, for example, a Rolex Submariner for a loved one: unless you have a purchase history with an authorized dealer, you’re unlikely to get that watch. Many people mistakenly believe there’s a waiting list. You might walk into a store like Williams Jewelers or Hyde Park and express your interest in buying the
watch as a gift for a special occasion, and the staff will be polite and take your contact information. However, unless you’ve spent thousands of dollars with that dealer previously, you probably won’t get the watch. The limited supply is reserved for their VIP clients, as demand far exceeds availability.”
James’s favorite part of his job is helping clients start or grow their watch collections. He enjoys the rewarding experience of assisting someone in acquiring their first luxury timepiece or achieving a milestone purchase. His dedication to customer service is evident in his commitment to building trust and ensuring client satisfaction. James further notes, “I have friends who will spend $15,000 to $20,000 on a painting, but they think it’s crazy to spend $5,000 on a watch. I tell them, you can only enjoy that painting when you’re in the room with it, but
you can enjoy a watch all day long when you’re wearing it.”
Sinclair Timepieces is here to assist whether someone wants to spend $2,500 or $25,000. He understands that starting a collection can be daunting. Questions like “What brand should I consider?” “What size do you recommend?” are common, and James is ready to provide guidance. Whether a client prefers steel over two-tone or a bracelet over a leather strap, James offers personalized advice to meet their preferences.
James drew several parallels when asked about how his business relates to the real estate industry. Top realtors typically make a good living and are very goal-driven. For luxury real estate agents, the connection to luxury watches is twofold. He says, “Firstly, clients looking for high-end properties, such as $2.5 to $3 million homes, are often the same individuals
A HIGH-END TIMEPIECE CAN BE A CONVERSATION STARTER,
ALLOWING THE AGENT TO FIND COMMON GROUND WITH POTENTIAL CLIENTS.
who appreciate and collect fine watches. Secondly, agents targeting the luxury market might invest in luxury watches themselves to make a strong first impression. A high-end timepiece can be a conversation starter, allowing the agent to find common ground with potential clients.”
Discussing watches can quickly build rapport; spending 15-20 minutes talking about timepieces can make a significant difference in establishing trust and connection. This connection could ultimately influence a client’s decision to choose that agent.
Beyond his professional life, James is a family man. He and Kristi have been married for 27 years and have two grown sons, Darien and Brayden. While Darien lives in Ohio with his fiancée, Brayden is still figuring out his path in life, living at home with his parents. James and Kristi share a love for travel, camping, and RVing, enjoying Colorado’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.
James is also active in his community, recently starting to attend Cars and Coffee events on Saturdays. The couple are members of Flatirons Church, where Kristi volunteers in the children’s ministry.
James Sinclair’s journey from the RV industry to luxury watch dealing is a testament to his adaptability and passion. He has built Sinclair Timepieces with a focus on trust, authenticity, and personalized service, making it a trusted source for luxury watch enthusiasts. He aims to help anyone interested in luxury watches, whether they are new to collecting or seasoned aficionados, providing expert advice and exceptional service every step of the way.
TOP 100 STANDINGS
The best in the business by far! James is transparent, honest and all around a very stand-up guy! Completed a trade and cash deal out of state and James was fast with everything! Thanks to James and Sinclair Timepieces, I now have my dream watch!
-John Aureliano
It was an absolute pleasure working with Janes and Sinclair timepieces. James is a knowledgeable and passionate horology professional. I am excited to have found such a great luxury watch resource and I look forward to doing more business in the future.
-Christopher Sanchez
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