As a woman in real estate, I’ve seen firsthand how the industry can be a challenging space, especially for those of us determined to make a real difference. Women in business face unique hurdles, and when you add the commitment to sustainable practices into the mix, the journey can be even more daunting. Yet, it is precisely this combination of resilience and purpose that drives us to push boundaries and create meaningful change.
I recently had the privilege of hosting Carolyn Pistone on my podcast. Carolyn is a remarkable woman who has not only navigated the often male-dominated world of commercial real estate but has also done so while building a business that prioritizes environmental sustainability. Her story is both inspiring and instructive, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to make an impact in their career and the world at large.
Watch the entire podcast episode here:
I’m thrilled to share these insights from our conversation with you!
Women Leading the Charge in Sustainable Commercial Real Estate
In our discussion, Carolyn shared her incredible journey from the entertainment industry to the helm of Clear Blue Commercial, a green, woman-owned B Corp that’s making waves in commercial real estate. Her path was anything but conventional, and that’s exactly what makes it so inspiring.
Carolyn’s Unconventional Journey to Real Estate
Carolyn’s career began in the entertainment industry, where she held high-powered positions in movie studios and the dot-com world. But after facing several job losses and the challenges of an evolving industry, she found herself at a crossroads.
It was then that she decided to pivot to real estate—a decision that would eventually lead her to create something truly extraordinary.
Transitioning into real estate wasn’t easy. Carolyn encountered numerous challenges, from adjusting to a new industry to dealing with the realities of starting at the bottom after having been at the top.
However, these experiences—tough as they were—shaped her approach to business. They instilled in her a resilience and determination that would prove invaluable in her later successes.
Founding Clear Blue Commercial: A Vision for a Greener Future
What motivated Carolyn to establish her business was her desire to create something that didn’t just focus on profits but also made a positive impact on the environment. She wanted to build a company that could be a force for good, a vision that led her to start Clear Blue Commercial.
Clear Blue Commercial is not your typical real estate firm. It’s a certified B Corp, which means it adheres to rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. And, Carolyn’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the business, from the projects they take on to the way they manage properties.
This dedication has made Clear Blue Commercial a leader in sustainable commercial real estate and a shining example of how business can be both profitable and purposeful.
Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
Commercial real estate is an industry that has long been dominated by men, and breaking through that barrier requires not just competence but also a lot of grit. Carolyn shared with me some of the difficulties she faced, including dealing with the “old boys club” mentality that still persists in many parts of the industry.
However, Carolyn didn’t let these challenges deter her. Instead, she used them as fuel to push harder and succeed on her terms.
One of the strategies she shared was the importance of ensuring clients have a rewarding real estate journey. From finding the right mortgage brokers to making a competitive offer, Carolyn believes in being there every step of the way to ensure her clients’ success.
This hands-on approach has not only helped her build strong client relationships but has also set her apart in the industry.
Environmental Advocacy in Action
Carolyn’s passion for the environment is central to her work at Clear Blue Commercial. The company has led several environmental initiatives that have had a significant impact, both on the environment and the business community.
For example, through water conservation projects and solar energy installations, her company has saved millions of gallons of water and diverted millions of pounds of carbon from the atmosphere.
From my perspective, podcasting is also a powerful tool for advocacy. It allows us to share stories like Carolyn’s, which can inspire others to take action in their communities.
If you’re thinking about starting a podcast to amplify your advocacy efforts, working with a professional real estate podcast production company can make all the difference in ensuring your message reaches the right audience.
The Power of Values in Business
During our conversation, Carolyn said something that really stuck with me:
“Your values are your values. And if you feel that your values are different at work than they are in your real life, then you might be working in the wrong place.”
This quote perfectly encapsulates Carolyn’s philosophy on aligning personal values with business practices.
Carolyn believes that to lead a fulfilling career, it’s essential to ensure your work aligns with your core values. She shared some valuable tips on how to do this, such as regularly reflecting on what’s most important to you and making conscious decisions that align with those priorities. By staying true to your values, you can create a career that’s not just successful but also deeply rewarding.
Insights from Carolyn’s Book: Open for Joy
In addition to her work in real estate, Carolyn is also an author. Her book, “Open For Joy: A Journey of Healing and Business Success,” delves into the themes of healing and business success. It’s about bringing your whole self to your work and life and integrating personal growth with professional achievement.
Carolyn’s book is a must-read for anyone looking to find that balance between personal fulfillment and career success. It’s filled with practical insights and exercises that encourage readers to reflect on their values and how they can bring more of themselves into their work.
I highly recommend it for anyone seeking to integrate their whole self into their career.
Follow the REalizations Podcast for More Inspiring Stories and Insights from Real Estate Experts!
Carolyn’s insights are invaluable, not just for women in real estate but for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their careers. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, purpose, and staying true to one’s values.
If you enjoyed this discussion, I encourage you to subscribe to the REalizations Podcast for more episodes like this one. Each episode features inspiring stories from real estate experts who are making a difference in the world.
And, if you’re looking to buy or sell a home in the Bay Area, I’d love to help you on your journey. Get in touch with me today, and let’s work together to achieve your real estate goals!
