LABJ Women in Leadership: Mentorship & Career Advice

Lucía Torres · 2026-06-04

We are incredibly proud to share that six of our own have been nominated for the Los Angeles Business Journal's 2026 Women in Leadership Awards. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication they bring to the real estate industry every single day. Congratulations to Rainy Hake Austin (Executive of the Year), Deedee Howard (Mentor of the Year), Gloria Castellanos (Champion of Women), Gina Michelle (The Accelerator), Monique Navarro (Community Impact Advocate), and Jeeb O'Reilly (Mentor of the Year). Here, three of our nominees, Jeeb O'Reilly, Deedee Howard, and Monique Navarro, share the advice that has defined their careers, how they've carved out a competitive edge in one of the world's most dynamic real estate markets, and what they love about L.A. And be sure to mark your calendars—winners will be announced during a special award ceremony on June 9th. Congratulations again to our nominees! ### What's One Leadership Lesson You Learned Early in Your Career That Still Shapes How You Mentor Others Today? **Jeeb O'Reilly:** Early in a real estate career, it's easy to think the business is about deals, negotiations, and hustle. And those things matter. But over time, you realize the people who build durable success are the ones who become trusted long before they become impressive and successful. Trust is the foundation. **Deedee Howard:** One leadership lesson I learned early is the importance of having great relationships with other agents and seeing them as collaborators, not competitors. When you shift that mindset, everything changes. You start sharing leads, referring clients, and building a network that lifts everyone up. **Monique Navarro:** The most powerful lesson I learned early on is that lifting others up is one of the greatest ways to elevate your own brand. Real estate is a business rooted deeply in connection — the relationships you build, the trust you earn, and the people you champion along the way are what sustain a lasting career. When I help others, I always come back to that truth: your success is directly tied to how genuinely you invest in the people around you. > "One lesson I learned early is the importance of having great relationships with other agents and seeing them as collaborators, not competitors." > — Deedee Howard ### Real Estate Can Be a Highly Competitive Space. How Have You Differentiated Yourself as a Leader in the Industry? **Jeeb O'Reilly:** In real estate, almost every opportunity comes through relationships. Clients continue to trust me with major financial decisions because I continue to keep them informed about the market and their deal. It's about consistent communication and being a reliable source of knowledge. **Deedee Howard:** Being 100% there for my clients when they need me, always keeping their interests at the forefront, and leading with honesty, integrity, and follow-through. That means late nights, early mornings, and never dropping the ball. It's simple but rare. **Monique Navarro:** For me, it starts with relationships — with clients and equally with other agents. A collaborative spirit closes deals that competition never could. Beyond that, I've always believed in offering more than the expected. I elevate every home with intentional floral design, exceptional photography, and marketing that tells a story. The experience I create for sellers and buyers feels less like a transaction and more like a boutique hotel — curated, personal, and concierge-level from start to finish. That standard of care is what sets me apart. > "A collaborative spirit closes deals that competition never could." > — Monique Navarro ### Looking Back at the Women Leaders and Mentors Who Influenced You, What Advice Would You Give Women Entering the Real Estate Space Today? **Jeeb O'Reilly:** Understand and learn that knowledge of the market creates confidence, and confidence creates opportunity. Every day is a learning experience about the diversity in Los Angeles. Don't be afraid to ask questions and stay curious. **Deedee Howard:** From the beginning, everyone really needs to understand it's a 24/7 job and your mantra needs to be work, work, work. I would also remind women that we are much better multitaskers than men, which has always given us an edge. Use that to your advantage. **Monique Navarro:** Don't measure your journey against anyone else's. Your path is yours alone. Focus on building genuine connections, learning every day, and staying true to your values. That's how you build a career that lasts. ### Key Takeaways for Aspiring Leaders - Build trust before trying to impress others. - See other agents as collaborators, not competitors. - Lift others up to elevate your own brand. - Stay informed and communicate consistently. - Offer a curated, concierge-level experience to stand out. - Embrace the 24/7 nature of the business with a strong work ethic. - Use your unique strengths, like multitasking, to your advantage. We can't wait to see the winners announced on June 9th. Best of luck to all our amazing nominees!