Fort Worth Real Producers - January 2026

FORT WORTH

JANUARY 2026

MARCI POTICNY

Leap of Faith

LINDA OLSON Rising from the Storm

BEN CHRISTOPHERSON

Faith Lived Out Loud

MAJOR MONEY MATTERS It Takes Two

PHOTO BY KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Jennifer Warn ROOTED IN AUTHENTICITY

2 • January 2026

Fort Worth Real Producers • 3

4 • January 2026

Contents

Jennifer Warn PROFILES

22

COVER STORY

IN THIS ISSUE 6 8 10 14 18

18 Major Money Matters

28 Marci Poticny

Preferred Partner Index Meet the FW RP Team Publisher’s Note Agent on the Rise: Ben Christopherson Preferred Partner Spotlight: Major Money Matters 22 Cover Story: Jennifer Warn 26 REAL Education: MyMetroTex Campus 28 Agent Spotlight: Marci Poticny 34 Inspirational Agent: Linda Olson 38 Event Recap: Masterclass

If you are interested in nominating people for certain stories, please email us at: team@dfwrealproducers.com Fort Worth Real Producers • 5

Preferred Partners 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!

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Fort Worth Real Producers • 7

Meet The Team

Have an Idea?

Jordan Espeseth Co-Owner/Founder

Lance Dunahoe Co-Owner

Ashley Gentry Agent Liaison

Reece Gentry Partner Liaison

Katherine Fondren Editor

Sarah Consentino Ad Strategist

Landon Day Photographer

Katharine Gann Photographer

Rick Davis Videographer

Want to pitch, nominate or share a really cool story with our readers? Scan the QR code below to share with our Publisher.

Jessica Espeseth Social Media Director

Follow us on our social channels for the latest info on exclusive events, newsmakers and more!

@DFWREALPRODUCERS

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.

8 • January 2026

Fort Worth Real Producers • 9

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A New Year, A New Season

holding your child that shifts your focus from ambition alone to legacy, presence, and intentionality.

And that perspective has shaped the way I’m approaching 2026.

The beginning of a new year always comes with excitement, but real momentum happens when that excitement turns into disciplined action.

It’s the small, ordinary choices like showing up consistently, leaning into relationships, investing in yourself and your craft. It is these things that shape your December long before you get there. Whether you’re an agent building momentum, a partner investing in deeper relationships, or someone chasing new highs in your personal life, the truth remains the same: the future rewards the intentional.

So, as we step into 2026 with fresh goals, fresh opportunities, fresh energy…I hope you’ll join me in choosing consistency over hype, purpose over busyness, and connection over isolation. This community is built on relationships, and there is so much good ahead when we choose to grow together.

Here’s to a year of clarity, action, and continued transformation… both personally and professionally.

And here’s to savoring the moments that matter…because if this past year has taught me anything, it’s that those moments come and go faster than any of us expect.

Welcome to 2026!

There’s something special about the quiet reset of January. The decorations come down, the last of the holiday treats disappear, and suddenly we find ourselves holding a brand-new calendar…365 fresh opportunities staring back at us. It’s a season where motivation runs high, where the page truly feels blank, and where we all begin to dream a little bit bigger about who we can become this year.

But this January feels different for me.

10 • January 2026

Last year at this time, I wrote this note as an almost dad..excited, nervous, hopeful, and totally unaware of just how much life was about to change. Today, I’m writing it with Ember crawling around our living room, babbling to herself, and reminding me every day that time moves quickly and purposefully.

Becoming a father this year didn’t just change my schedule or my sleep. It changed the way I see the world. The dreams I chase, the priorities I protect, the goals I set...they all carry new meaning now. There’s something about

Cheers to a meaningful and momentum-filled 2026!

Jordan Espeseth DFW Real Producers Founder / Co-Owner

Fort Worth Real Producers • 11

YOUR FORT WORTH REAL PRODUCERS BADGES Congrats on being one of the top real estate agents in Fort Worth!

It is January - and the real estate sales of 2025 are in the books! That means the new Fort Worth Real Producers Top 500 and 1000 agents’ 2026 is being released!

The new list is based on 2025 sales according to the MLS, and as part of this exclusive community of the top 5% real estate agents in Fort Worth, the top 500 agents will receive the magazine in the mail each month and the top 1000 will receive it digitally. All top 1000 agents will be able to attend our exclusive events for agents and RP preferred partners in the city.

As part of the top agents in Fort Worth, you will also have your own badge to use however you’d like to show that you’ve made it a part of the Real Producers community.

How did you finish out 2025? Will you make the 2026 list? Check your inbox in January to find out!

We can’t wait to celebrate your success in 2026!

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BenChristopherson AGENT ON THE RISE

Fa i t h L ive d Out Loud

WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY

14 • January 2026

While numbers are black and white and often demonstrate worth, Fort Worth real estate agent Ben Christopherson stands firmly rooted in a different truth — one anchored in faith in himself, his family, and a calling greater than himself. “God is the only reason I’m where I’m at today, and I owe it all to Him,” Ben says. It’s not just a phrase for him; it’s the foundation on which his entire life and career have been built.

Born in Aurora, Colorado, Ben grew up as the youngest of three children, watching his parents build and operate their family business, Chris Crane Enterprises. “I was raised up watching my mom and dad run a company,” he recalls.

“Then I worked alongside

my dad, learning to become a welder, fabricator, salesman, and business owner.” Hard work, faith, and family weren’t just values in the Christopherson household—they were a way of life.

After marrying his wife, Sara, in 2009, the two made the leap to Texas in 2013, bringing with them their first child and a shared dream for a better future.

Sara, now an RN, has been Ben’s strong support through every twist and turn. “She’s my everything—my ride or die through it all,” he says with deep affection.

Together, they’ve built a life centered on love and their three children: Caleb, Luke, and Hannah. “They make me want to be a better dad and give them a life they deserve,” Ben shares proudly.

But life wasn’t without trials. Ben faced immense challenges before real estate ever entered the picture.

When Sara underwent surgery for thyroid cancer and his fabrication business, Mansfield Metalworks, came to a standstill, he found himself leaning against his workbench, speaking to God out loud, searching for direction. “I was trying to figure out His next step for me,” he recalls.

“Then my old REALTOR® called—checking in on Sara after her surgery—and out of nowhere, he said, ‘I think you should become a REALTOR®. I think you’d be very good at it.’”

At first, Ben brushed it off.

But later that evening, when he shared the conversation with Sara, she smiled and told him she’d had a dream the night before—one where he was an agent.

“Right then and there,” Ben says, “it was clear what God wanted me to do.”

From that divine nudge, a new chapter began. His first assignment as a real estate agent was unforgettable— meeting investors at a rundown property in Arlington. “When I pulled up, I made sure I had my conceal carry,” he laughs.

“The house was something else, but I stayed positive and answered all their questions.

Then right there on the driveway, they decided to buy.” That first sale marked not just the start of his career, but confirmation that he was walking in God’s plan.

Now, seven years later, Ben’s approach to real estate is simple: it’s not about the Fort Worth Real Producers • 15

Faith, Family, Freedom, and then Real Estate— in that order.”

16 • January 2026

commission; it’s about the mission. “I absolutely know it’s about God’s mission, not the commission, on every deal,” he says. “I try to share my faith with every transaction. Ultimately, God knows what house you’re going to get or who’s going to buy your house. I’m simply the tool He’s using.”

His daily routine begins the same way—grounded in scripture. “My mornings start in the Word as much as I can.

It gives my day a foundation so that whatever comes my way, I’m not rocked.” Ben admits that challenges come, especially in an unpredictable business like real estate.

But his faith steadies him,

keeping him focused on what truly matters.

family walks alongside him in every victory.

For Ben, success has taken on a new meaning over time. “It used to be about how many transactions and GCI,” he admits. “That’s what most REALTORS® talk about. But after my mom passed four years ago, I started to see things differently.” His mother, who battled ALS for three decades, left behind a powerful example of belief and resilience. “She was steadfast in her faith all throughout her fight,” Ben says. “If I can attack life with half the amount of faith she had, I have nothing to worry about.”

Outside of real estate, Ben is a man of simple joys and strong convictions.

He’s a proud patriot who loves the outdoors, fishing, and spending time with his family. A diehard Denver Broncos and Texas Rangers fan, he’s known for his sense of humor and knack for making people laugh.

“Most meetings, I can get people going,” he chuckles.

Today, his priorities are clear: “Faith, Family, Freedom, and then Real Estate—in that order.” He may not chase the highest numbers or biggest accolades, but what he does pursue has eternal weight. “I may not be the richest or most successful, but I know God will give me all that I need.”

Family remains at the heart of everything Ben does. “I only have my kids under my roof for a short time,” he says. “I thank God every day He’s given me this time.” After each closing, the Christophersons celebrate together with dinner, a small but meaningful ritual. “After my first closing, we went out to eat, and I was explaining to the kids how real estate works. My middle son Luke, who was about four at the time, said, ‘I hope God let’s us eat out every night.’”

Ben laughs, remembering that sweet innocence—a reminder of how closely his

Looking ahead, Ben’s goals remain deeply personal: “To lead my family better than I did this year. To serve my wife better. To glorify God in every aspect of my day.”

His advice for new agents reflects that same heart.

“Stay focused on your why.

Don’t lose sight of that. Lean on God in every aspect of our job—especially during the option period,” he says with a grin.

At the end of the day, Ben’s legacy isn’t about sales figures or awards—it’s about faith lived out loud.

“More than anything, I want people to know my faith in my Lord Jesus Christ,” he says. “I want to leave a legacy for my kids.” He wears a bracelet engraved with the words Leave a Legacy, a daily reminder of his purpose.

For Ben Christopherson, real estate isn’t just a career—it’s a ministry. His story is proof that when faith leads the way, fortune follows in far greater forms than any commission check could offer.

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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

MAJOR MONEY M AT T E R S S

ome partnerships are born out of convenience.

Others, like that of Linda Awad and Major Singleton, are built from respect, shared values, and a belief that genuine care transcends background, business, and even belief.

When Major recalls how they first crossed paths, he laughs softly.

“I was coerced,” he says. “Linda convinced me to buy a house.”

It was 2021, and Major, originally from South Carolina, had recently moved to DFW to be closer to his mother. He was referred to Linda, a local agent known for her sharp negotiating skills and heart-led approach. What started as a client–agent transaction soon became something much more—an enduring professional partnership grounded in mutual trust and deep understanding.

“When Linda was buying her own home, I was her loan officer,” Major remembers. “She reached out and asked if I could get her a better rate—and I did.” That deal marked the beginning of a working relationship that has lasted for over two decades.

From One Transaction to a Team Built on Trust Linda, now leading the number five team at Compass, remembers that first deal with Major Money Matters vividly. “I just felt like he 18 • January 2026

cared,” she says. “He held my hand throughout the process. I could tell that he wasn’t just doing a job—he was genuinely invested.”

From that moment, the two began collaborating regularly. Over the years, they’ve handled every kind of transaction together— from first-time homebuyers to multimillion-dollar purchases and international investors. But the true magic of their partnership lies not in the volume or value of deals—it’s in how seamlessly they work together.

“Most people are going to talk to their real estate agent first,” Major explains. “Linda builds rapport with that person and then connects them with me. My job is to go through their finances and figure out what program works best for them.”

Linda appreciates that level of care and clarity. “I used to do loans years ago,” she says, “but with Major, I don’t have to worry about explaining that side anymore. He’s already answered their questions before they come to me. It frees up my time to focus on what I do best—real estate.”

That level of alignment doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built on shared principles, respect, and a deep understanding of what clients truly need.

IT TAKES TWO Different Worlds, Aligned in Purpose On paper, Major and Linda couldn’t be more different. “She’s Muslim.

I’m Christian,” Major says. “She’s a woman, I’m a man. I’m Black. She’s Middle Eastern. There’s nothing that connects us on paper. But it’s rewarding to know how well we work together and how we both care for our communities.”

For Linda, that connection is rooted in heart. “We share the same values—family, integrity, and serving our clients with everything we’ve got,” she says.

“I’m honored to be a part of their process. Every client has a choice, and I never take it lightly that they chose me.”

Major agrees. “People ask me why I work with Linda, and the answer’s simple: I know how she treats people. She negotiates like it’s her own money being spent.

That kind of commitment is rare.”

Their clients feel it, too. They’ve built their own referral networks, and it’s not just productive—it’s personal. “Thirty percent of my clients are Middle Eastern,” Major notes. “Even if I didn’t personally do the loan, most have at least talked to me. That’s what happens when you lead with respect and connection.”

A Partnership Beyond the Closing Table Their collaboration extends far beyond the transaction. Every November, Linda hosts a lavish client appreciation dinner—a

LINDA AWAD & MAJOR SINGLETON

WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Fort Worth Real Producers • 19

Keane, MJ, Joselyn, and Aiden,” he says. “I want to build something meaningful, not just financially, but in how I serve people.”

More Alike Than They Seem When asked what keeps their partnership thriving after so many years, Linda doesn’t hesitate. “We’ve been aligned for years,” Linda says. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Thanksgiving-themed evening complete with live violin, valet service, and an atmosphere of gratitude. “It’s about staying connected,” she says. “It’s not just business—it’s family.”

of myself as a very well-paid teacher,” he says. “I want my clients to understand how mortgages work, why they qualify—or don’t—and what programs are available to them.”

Major has been part of that event from the beginning, sponsoring and attending each year. “By now, half the people in the room are his clients, too,” Linda says with a laugh. “It’s amazing to see how our circles have blended over time.”

That passion for helping people learn and succeed is something Linda admires deeply. “He’s always made his money matter,” she says. “Just like his business name—Major Money Matters— and it’s true to who he is.”

That longevity, they both agree, is the key to lasting success. “A lot of agents and lenders struggle because they don’t have a defined system,” Major says. “They jump from one partner to another, and that creates instability. But with us, we know how each other works. We trust the process.”

For Major, success is measured in more than his career. “I’ve got a beautiful family—my wife, Cheryl, of 20 years, and our four kids,

Linda echoes that sentiment.

“If you’re going to build a partnership, work with someone you trust,” she says. “You should never have to call and ask how things are going. You should just know they’re being taken care of.”

Shared Success and the Heart Behind It Major’s guiding principle has always been education. “I think 20 • January 2026

It’s a reminder that the strongest partnerships aren’t built on sameness—they’re built on shared purpose. For Linda and Major, that purpose is clear: to help people achieve their dreams of homeownership with honesty, heart, and an commitment to doing things the right way. And sometimes, it takes a partnership to make dreams come true, and Major Singleton with Major Money Matters is a partner you can trust to take your business to the next level.

“We may look different, but we’re really not that different,” he says.

“We want the same things—to serve people, to do good work, to make a difference.”

Our

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Jennifer

COVER STORY

WARN

Rooted in Authenticity WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY KATHARINE GANN, DAYDREAM PHOTOGRAPHY

22 • January 2026

For Jennifer Warn, success is measured in the quiet moments that matter most. The tearful hug at a closing table, the handwritten note slipped into a client’s mailbox, the trust that lingers long after the ink dries.

“Success is not defined by an award or notoriety,” she says. “To me, it’s how I made someone feel.”

Born in Grand Prairie, Texas, Jennifer’s path to real estate began long before she ever held a license. After graduating from James Bowie High School in 1995, she headed to Stephen F. Austin State University to pursue nursing, but life had other plans. “I pivoted and began my career in property management in 1997,” she recalls. That pivot would set the foundation for a career built on connection, compassion, and a deep understanding of what “home” truly means.

From her early days as a leasing agent to her role assisting developers in Austin’s iconic 2nd Street District, Jennifer’s real estate journey has been anything but linear. She took a break from the business to raise her three children—Preston, Paxton, and Presley—but the spark never left. With the unwavering support of her husband of 25 years, she earned her real estate license in 2021. “My husband was the one who pushed me to do it,” she says with a smile. “He’s always believed in me and told me I had what it took to be one of the best. Every time I get an award, he says, ‘See, I told you so.’ It’s one of the sweetest things ever.”

Jennifer’s early experiences shaped her approach to real estate in a way that transcends transactions. She vividly remembers one of her first clients—a widow grieving the loss of her husband. “We laughed, we cried, and I listened,” she shares softly. “When I left, I felt so heavy and questioned if I was up for this challenge. But those are the moments that make us the kind of agent we’re meant to be.”

For Jennifer, empathy isn’t just a nice-to-have quality—it’s the heartbeat of her business. “Whether it’s divorce, death, downsizing, or selling a home full of memories, being empathetic and holding your client’s hand along the way is what they’ll remember most.” That belief has guided her through every closing and every client relationship since.

As a real estate agent with 6th Avenue Homes, Jennifer has found not only a brokerage but a community that reflects her own values. “The turning point in my career was definitely taking the leap of faith and joining 6th Avenue Homes,” she says. “It was the vibe I needed. The people there—Jamey, Jimmy, Brian—they’re empathetic, authentic, and selfless leaders. They’ve given me the confidence and tools to be the best agent I can be.” Surrounded by 50 like-minded agents, Jennifer describes her workplace as “a truly special place.”

Fort Worth Real Producers • 23

Her commitment to connection extends far beyond closing day. “Just because we’ve closed a transaction doesn’t mean I’m going away,” she laughs. “I love dropping off treats, writing birthday cards, remembering milestones, and hosting client events. The relationships I’ve made—that’s my favorite part of being a REALTOR®.” Her efforts have paid off in ways that can’t be quantified by numbers alone, though the numbers are impressive—$36 million in career volume since 2021 and $15 million in 2024 alone.

Jennifer’s list of awards—Rising Star Award (2022), Agent of the Year/Top Performer (2024), Real Producers Top 500 (2025), and recognition in Fort Worth and 360 West magazines— speaks to her hard work and dedication. But for her, those awards are simply reflections of something deeper. “It’s about the value you bring to others,” she emphasizes. “When a client still calls for advice or sends me a referral, that’s when I know I’ve succeeded.”

Her outlook on success is rooted in authenticity— something she encourages every new agent to embrace. “Be authentically YOU,” she advises. “It’s so easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing. But God gave you your own talents and tools to pave your way, your way. People are drawn to you for a reason.”

Jennifer attributes her work ethic and resilience to her father, who worked nights at a steel plant while putting himself through school and eventually building a successful business

24 • January 2026

from scratch. “He showed me that there’s no obstacle too big if you have the drive,” she says proudly. “Seeing what he and my mom accomplished inspires me every day.”

That same drive propels Jennifer toward her goals for 2025— to exceed her production from the previous year, to connect with each client four times annually, and to give back to her community every month. “I want to be remembered as someone who made a difference,” she says. “Whether that’s through my kids’ school, church, or community, I want my success to be measured by my actions and how I made someone feel—not by my awards or merits.”

When she’s not serving her clients, Jennifer’s heart belongs to her family. Her free time is filled with cheering from the sidelines at her kids’ games and traveling together whenever possible. “My favorite thing in the world is watching my kids do what they love,” she says. “They’re my biggest motivation. I want them to know that a college degree isn’t the only path to success—if you work hard and push yourself, you can achieve anything.”

For Jennifer Warn, real estate is more than a profession— it’s a calling rooted in empathy, guided by authenticity, and grounded in love for others. Her story reminds us that the truest measure of success isn’t found in plaques or numbers, but in the lives touched along the way.

“Empathy and authenticity,” she reflects, “that’s what people remember. That’s what matters most.”

Fort Worth Real Producers • 25

REAL EDUCATION

MyMetroTex Campus: A New Era of REALTOR® Learning in North Texas

BY LES MCGEHEE PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY RIALTO ACADEMY

North Texas has long been home to some of the most driven real estate agents in the country—professionals who expect their education to be as modern and dynamic as the market they serve. Agents in DFW spend approximately 500,000 hours educating themselves, every year! With the launch of MyMetroTex Campus, MetroTex has introduced a streamlined learning environment designed for how Dallas-area agents actually work today: fast, mobile, and always raising their game.

The Campus brings CE, MLS training, designations, professional development, new-member requirements, and an expanding library of on-demand courses into one intuitive experience. For working agents, it removes friction and turns ongoing learning into something both accessible and strategic.

MetroTex Steps Into a Bigger Future “We’re committed to being one of the most forwardlooking REALTOR® associations in the country,” says CEO Justin Landon. “MyMetroTex Campus is built for today’s REALTORS®—high quality, flexible, and accessible anywhere.”

The launch arrives at a milestone moment. With MetroTex Association completing its merger with the respected Collin County Area REALTORS®, the combined organization now supports nearly 40,000 real estate agents across the Dallas area and broader North Texas region. It’s one of the most influential REALTOR® associations in the country—and the Campus reflects that leadership.

MetroTex has long been known for service and professionalism. The Campus builds on that legacy with a modern, member-first approach.

26 • January 2026

A Partnership Designed to Elevate the REALTOR® Experience To bring the Campus to life, MetroTex teamed with Rialto Academy, a national leader in localized REALTOR® education serving more than 500,000 REALTORS®. Together, the two organizations built a platform that reflects the realities of the North Texas market—purposeful, polished, and built to support learning that sticks.

A key part of that collaboration takes place inside Rialto’s Dallas-area production studio, where top MetroTex instructors work alongside Rialto’s instructional designers and media team to produce modern, multimedia on-demand courses. These aren’t repurposed Zoom recordings—they’re professionally filmed sessions with strong structure, compelling visuals, and the clarity REALTORS® expect from high-level training.

Rialto also expands the instructional bench, bringing in nationally requested educators such as Marki Lemons Ryhal, Julia Lashay, and Josh Cadillac, complementing MetroTex’s deep roster of accomplished local instructors.

Educators of Influence: Highlighting a Few of the Exceptional Voices on the Campus With more than 75 accomplished instructors contributing to MyMetroTex Campus, the depth of expertise available to members is remarkable.

The educators featured here are among those helping shape the early success of the platform—each bringing a distinct voice, real-world mastery, and a genuine commitment to elevating REALTORS® across North Texas.

Marion Napoleon — Award-Winning Educator With a Motivational Edge “Education should elevate your business right away.

MyMetroTex Campus puts that level of learning in every member’s hands.”

A Texas REALTORS® Educator of the Year, senior instructor, broker/owner, author, certified life coach, and former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, Marion

Napoleon brings a rare duality to her courses: precision and presence. Her background training teams for Fannie Mae, Wells Fargo, and Freddie Mac informs her practical, empowering style.

Michica “Mish” Guillory — Commercial Authority & Media Voice “Commercial and legal knowledge gives REALTORS® a true edge. MyMetroTex Campus makes that edge accessible to everyone.”

A senior nstructor and Educator of the Year recipient, Mish Guillory founded Texas’s only TREC-licensed school focused solely on commercial leasing education. A regular real estate commentator on Fox 26, she brings clarity to a sector many agents want to understand but rarely get to explore.

Todd Bingham — Veteran Broker & Association Leader “The most successful agents aren’t just working harder.

They’re learning smarter.”

With more than 20 years of real estate experience, Todd Bingham is a respected broker, Texas REALTORS® Director, MetroTex Board Director, TREPAC Trustee, and instructor. His work centers on negotiation strategy, ethics, and advancing professional development for real estate professionals nationwide, with a focus on building sustainable, long-term businesses.

Cindy Baas — REALTOR® Member of the Year & Trusted Community Voice “Clear communication and integrity strengthen our entire industry.”

Named 2024 MetroTex REALTOR® Member of the Year, Cindy Baas is a broker, MetroTex Board Director, and well-known leader in Texas and North Texas real estate. Her courses emphasize communication, client care, and the professional habits that create longevity.

A Platform Built for Growth—and Built for REALTORS® Guiding the Campus’s ongoing expansion is Roxie Glenn, VP of Member Engagement, whose team continually curates and refines a catalog of on-demand learning, virtual programs, designations, MLS mastery tracks, and nativelanguage Spanish options.

The result is a platform with depth, flexibility, and a distinctly North Texas identity.

MyMetroTex Campus is positioning MetroTex as a national leader in REALTOR® learning—offering education that is both modern and meaningful.

A Final Note to Real Producers Readers North Texas REALTORS® lead with generosity, collaboration, and a desire to elevate their profession. If you have expertise that could benefit your peers, Rialto Academy welcomes new instructor voices.

To explore teaching opportunities in real estate, contact Les McGehee at Les@RialtoAcademy.com.

Les McGehee is the President of Rialto Academy, #1 in the world for localized real estate education with more than half a million REALTORS® on association education campuses.

Fort Worth Real Producers • 27

AGENT SPOTLIGHT

MARCI POTICNY

LEAP OF FAITH

28 • January 2026

WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN · PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY

F

or Marci Poticny, real estate isn’t just a profession — it’s a platform with a purpose. “Real estate is the platform God gave me to love and serve others,” she says. “To help them through one of the biggest and most emotional decisions of their lives with compassion, honesty, and heart.”

Born in Amarillo, Texas, Marci’s story began in a family that valued love and togetherness. With a father who worked for a chemical company and a mother who poured her heart into creating a warm home, Marci grew up surrounded by encouragement and laughter. “I’m one of three girls,” she shares. “My mom made our home feel full of love, and that’s something I’ve carried with me my whole life.”

Her early years were marked by adventure and discovery. When her father’s job took the family

to Singapore during her middle school years, it opened Marci’s eyes to a world far beyond her own. “It was a complete culture shock, but such a gift,” she reflects.

“I was exposed to so many different cultures, foods, and ways of life, and it really shaped my worldview.” Those years abroad planted in her a deep appreciation for people — for their stories, their differences, and the connections that tie us all together.

After returning to Texas, Marci graduated from Grapevine High School and later attended Texas Tech University, proudly joining the long line of Red Raiders in her family. She majored in Human Development and Family Studies, driven by a lifelong fascination with people and relationships.

“I’ve always loved understanding the ‘why’ behind human behavior,” she says. Her natural warmth and curiosity made her a

connector — someone who listens deeply and cares sincerely.

Before stepping into real estate, Marci built a career centered around service. From managing branches at Enterprise Rent-ACar to working in the charitable divisions of Fidelity Investments and Charles Schwab, her focus remained steady: helping people. “Every position I held taught me something valuable about communication, service, and leadership,” she explains.

“Those lessons became the foundation for how I now run my real estate business.”

In 2017, encouraged by her husband Todd — a commercial real estate professional — Marci took a leap of faith and earned her real estate license. The start wasn’t easy. “My first six months, I made zero dollars,” she admits with a laugh. “I thought I was Fort Worth Real Producers • 29

seven days, we closed the deal.”

The family walked away with over $100,000 in equity instead of losing everything. “That moment changed me. It showed me that this business isn’t just about helping people during joyful times — it’s about standing beside them in their hardest ones.”

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT SOMEONE IS WALKING

doing all the right things, but I didn’t yet understand how to turn effort into results.” But what she lacked in experience, she made up for in determination.

After learning the ropes on a high-volume team, Marci eventually branched out on her own — a move that changed everything. “When I stepped out as a solo agent, I realized I didn’t want to chase numbers. I wanted to focus on people,” she says. “I told myself I’d rather do fewer deals a year and wholeheartedly serve each client than lose sight of my purpose.”

THROUGH.”

One of her most defining moments came early in her career when she helped a family facing both divorce and foreclosure. “They didn’t realize they still had options,” she recalls. “I explained how we could sell before the foreclosure date — and within 30 • January 2026

Faith has been the steady rhythm behind every step of Marci’s journey. “Every part of my story — the highs, the struggles, the comebacks — has reminded me that God is always in control,” she says. During a particularly difficult season, when her husband battled alcohol addiction brought on by extreme work stress, that faith carried them through. “It tested everything — our marriage, our faith, our resilience,” she admits.

“But through God’s grace, we came out stronger, more united, and with a renewed sense of purpose.

Only God could have restored what was broken.”

That season gave Marci a compassion she now carries into every interaction. “You never know what someone is walking through,” she says. “I want everyone I meet to feel seen, loved, and supported.” It’s that empathy that defines her — a real estate agent who leads with grace, listens with intention, and genuinely loves the people she serves.

Today, Marci and Todd have joined forces under The Poticny Group with eXp Realty, combining her passion for residential real estate with his expertise in commercial.

Together, they’re building a business rooted in integrity, faith, and excellence. “It’s been such a rewarding season,” she says. “We want to create something bigger than ourselves — a business that makes an impact and helps new agents grow.”

Their life in Roanoke, Texas, is full of blessings. They recently

celebrated ten years of marriage and are preparing to welcome their first child — a baby girl — in May 2026. “It was such an unexpected blessing,” Marci says, smiling. “Everything I do now has a deeper meaning. I want our daughter to grow up watching her parents live out their purpose, serve others with integrity, and keep God first.”

Outside of real estate, Marci finds joy in fitness, nutrition, and adventure — a love she credits with keeping her grounded and grateful. Her late grandfather, also a real estate agent and mentor, remains one of her greatest influences. “He was still selling real estate at 98 years old,” she laughs. “He used to say, ‘Always smile while you still have teeth.’ Behind that humor was so much wisdom.

He taught me to choose joy every day.”

For Marci, success has never been about the numbers — it’s about peace, purpose, and presence.

“Success to me is waking up every day and doing work that honors God, serves people well, and allows me to be fully present in the season I’m in,” she says. “I no longer chase recognition. I chase purpose.”

As she continues to build her business, her mission remains beautifully simple: to love people well. “I want to be remembered for how I made people feel — for showing up, for caring, for leading with heart,” Marci says.

“At the end of the day, it’s about the people whose lives were touched along the way.”

And through her work, her faith, and her compassion, Marci Poticny continues to prove that the truest success isn’t measured in contracts or closings — it’s found in the lives we impact, the grace we extend, and the love we leave behind.

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Fort Worth Real Producers • 33

INSPIRATIONAL AGENT

LINDA OLSON 34 • January 2026

RISING FROM THE

STORM WRITTEN BY KATHERINE H. FONDREN PHOTOS BY DESIREE ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY

For Linda Olson, life has been marked by faith, hardship, and resilience. A real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Winans and part of the Emerald Team DFW, she has spent two decades helping families find their homes—while building her own story of perseverance through seasons of uncertainty and loss.

Born into a military family, Linda moved often as a child before settling in San Antonio by third grade. “I graduated in the top one percent of my class,” she recalls proudly. “I attended St. Mary’s University on a full scholarship. It was special because it was my dad’s alma mater.” That sense of legacy, of honoring those who came before her, has guided her life both personally and professionally.

Before real estate, Linda worked her way up in the construction world— starting out answering phones for a remodeling company and eventually becoming a project manager for a luxury home builder. “I started in the office answering phones and worked my way up to management,” she shares. “I learned how homes come together, from the foundation to the final details.”

Then came September 11, 2001—a moment that altered not just a nation, but the course of her life. “When the attacks happened, the economy just stopped,” she explains. “I was downsized, my husband’s work dried up, and we were one payment away from losing our house.” Her husband found work overseas, building military barracks in Iraq, and encouraged her to pursue real estate. “He knew I’d be good at it,” Linda says. “I’m so happy I listened to him.”

Those early days were far from easy.

“No one told me I wouldn’t have income for almost a year,” she admits with a laugh. “They made it sound like people would just walk into the office ready to buy or sell.” But through mentorship and encouragement, Linda found her footing. “If I hadn’t had others around me who believed in me, I might have quit,” she says.

That same belief in the power of community remains at the heart of her success today. Her team—the Emerald Team DFW—is not just a group of colleagues but a family. “My team are my best friends,” she says with warmth.

“They are both amazing, successful ladies, but they are always available when I need help. They are a huge part of my support system.”

Linda’s career has been filled with milestones and honors. She’s served as a director for the Arlington Board of REALTORS®, won multiple corporate relocation awards, and has been recognized by Texas Monthly Magazine with the Five Star Service Award for 13 consecutive years. In 2022, she was featured in Forbes as a Five Star Legend.

Yet even with all her achievements, Fort Worth Real Producers • 35

Linda’s definition of success is deeply personal. “Success for me is when my clients get more than they hoped for,” she says. “If we can get them a better deal, if I can exceed their expectations— that’s the win.”

But no achievement could prepare her for the year 2020—a season that tested her in every way. “In January, my car was vandalized, and my entire work bag and MacBook were stolen,” she begins.

“In July, I broke my shoulder. In August, I broke my hand. And in September, my husband passed away from complications due to COVID-19—two weeks before our 36th wedding anniversary.”

Her voice softens as she reflects. “Losing him devastated me for a while. I was afraid and uncertain about everything.”

Together they had raised four sons and built a life filled with love. “Each of us had to deal with our own grief while navigating our new normal,” she shares.

In the wake of loss, Linda turned to the things that had always anchored her— her work, her ministry, and her faith. “In October, just one month after his death, I led a team of church friends in an outreach for the homeless in Dallas,” she recalls. “I realized that was the best way to honor my husband—to bless others with a better life.”

Her faith remains at the core of everything she does. Linda serves as a Deacon at her church, helps run the live stream cameras on Sunday mornings, and leads her local chapter of Celebrate Recovery, a ministry she’s been active in for over 12 years. “I try to be Jesus to others,” she says simply. “Let’s take as many to heaven as we can.”

Through it all, she’s found peace in helping others—both in real estate and in life. “I hope others who have experienced hardship or are going through difficulties will be encouraged,” Linda shares.

Her compassion extends beyond her clients to her colleagues as well. “I don’t see other agents as adversaries, but as colleagues,” she explains. “The best transactions have some give and take.

36 • January 2026

Guided By SUCCESS

Trust,

FOR ME IS WHEN MY CLIENTS GET MORE THAN THEY HOPED FOR.”

Even if an agent is new, I try to make them feel at ease.”

Looking ahead, Linda and her team are developing a new niche market: helping families with inherited property that don’t know where to start. “They need guidance to make decisions and resources,” explains Linda. “We provide free, no-obligation help for them whether they sell the property or not.”

Her motivation today is grounded in gratitude—for her family, her faith, and the people who’ve stood beside her. “My family has been so supportive when I needed it most,” she says. “They are my ‘why.’” She is currently working on a home renovation project with her son and daughter-in-law, and they are selling now and will share the proceeds.

“We are a real estate family,” she says.

“He is a home inspector and she is a REALTOR®.”

As for her advice to those just starting out in real estate, it’s as practical as it is heartfelt: “Be your own cheerleader.

This business is hard, but remember your worth and keep trying. Don’t chase the customers who aren’t motivated— there are plenty who need your help.”

Linda Olson’s story is one of endurance, faith, and quiet strength. She has faced the unimaginable—and come through it with grace, compassion, and an unshakable belief that even in the hardest seasons, there is purpose. “We don’t always understand why bad things happen,” she says, her words steady and sure. “But we can survive and thrive.”

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Fort Worth Real Producers • 37

EVENT RECAP

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Our third and last Masterclass of 2025 was nothing short of powerful! Agents and partners alike commented on how timely the conversations were and how needed the insights felt. And of course, the networking was second to none.

Thank you to our Panelists: • Robert Wagner, REALTOR®/Certified AI Advantage Specialist • Jason Northcutt, REALTOR®/AI Architect

Emcees: • Ashley Gentry • Les McGehee

What we learned: TITLE: From Prompt to Profit: Real AI for Real Estate 38 • January 2026

This Real Producers Masterclass went beyond prompts and theory. Robert and Jason showed stepby-step, how to integrate AI into your daily workflow to create true leverage, efficiency, and consistency in your business.

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Fort Worth Real Producers • 39

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