Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the journeys of Emily Wood and Kayla Hankins as they share their inspiring paths into commercial real estate, the risks they've taken, and their unique vision for the "Closing the Deal, Opening Up" podcast. Discover what drives these dynamic hosts and how they plan to motivate and connect with you, their listeners, in this introductory episode.

Emily Wood is a co-host of "Closing the Deal, Opening Up." With an inspiring journey in commercial real estate (CRE), Emily has seamlessly transitioned from managing multiple jobs in Manhattan to becoming a pivotal figure in the PropTech space. Her passion for community building and entrepreneurial spirit has led her to launch successful ventures like WorkSmart Coworking and Huntington Creative. Emily's resilience and drive shine through in her mission to empower others while balancing her roles as a mom and industry leader.

Kayla Hankins is a co-host of "Closing the Deal, Opening Up," bringing a unique blend of CRE expertise and a go-for-it mentality. With nearly five years of foundational experience at Cushman & Wakefield, Kayla has embraced the future of real estate through her current role, balancing bold career pivots with her unwavering commitment to personal growth. Outside of the office, Kayla’s passion for health and fitness as a personal trainer adds a vibrant dimension to her life and professional endeavors.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Embracing Uncertainty: Both Emily and Kayla emphasized the importance of navigating uncertainty with a positive mindset. They highlighted the value of taking risks and being open to new opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
• Community and Collaboration: The episode stressed the significance of building and nurturing strong relationships. Emily shared her approach in creating community-based connections, whether in small businesses or in the commercial real estate sector, demonstrating how collaboration leads to mutual success.
• Mentorship and Support: Kayla discussed the crucial role of female mentorship in a male-dominated industry. Both hosts highlighted the importance of supporting and uplifting other women, creating a more inclusive and collaborative environment.
• Personal Growth and Balance: Emily shared her journey of balancing motherhood and career, emphasizing the importance of setting a strong example for her children. Both hosts encouraged listeners to invest in both their personal and professional growth, whether through fitness, creative pursuits, or continuous learning.
• Resilience Through Adversity: Personal stories of overcoming significant challenges, such as Emily's experience with divorce, illustrated the power of resilience. They showcased how facing and overcoming hardships can lead to greater strength and a renewed sense of purpose.

Your host, Emily Wood, can be found online at:

Website: https://www.thehuntingtoncreative.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilylwoodny/

X: @emilyincre

Instagram: @emilyincre

Your co-host, Kayla Hankins, can be found online at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-hankins/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylahankins/