Diversity Matters
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Teresa Palacios Smith is Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer for HomeServices of America.
Diversity MATTERS is a series created by Teresa Palacios Smith, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer for HomeServices of America and HSF Affiliates where she interviews leaders in the industry on all diversity topics from why diversity matters in organizations; the impact on diversity in the workplace; why increasing homeownership in diverse markets makes an impact along with critical iss
04/21/2026
Stories have the power to change everything.
Tomorrow, we’re re-sharing a powerful conversation on Diversity Matters with Jackie Ruiz (the pilotina) and I couldn’t be more excited for more people to experience it.
Jackie was featured last month, but with many of us attending the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention and the NAHREP Policy Conference, I didn’t have the opportunity to truly highlight this incredible woman and her inspiring story.
You’re going to want to hear about her journey, her voice, and her impact. She truly defines courage and perseverance.
📅 Wednesday, March 25
⏰ 10 AM PT | 1 PM ET
🎥 Tune in at:
DiversityMattersSeries.com
or DiversityMattersYouTube.com
I hope you’ll join us.
This month on Women Who Lead, Teresa Palacios Smith brings together three exceptional leaders who are not only driving results within the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network—but elevating those around them through their leadership, consistency, and commitment to excellence.
Joining the conversation are:
• Debra Fortin, Director of Operations, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Myrtle Beach Real Estate, a respected industry professional whose experience, professionalism, and leadership continue to make a lasting impact within her market and beyond.
• Whitney Leonard, President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties, a dynamic leader recognized for her energy, innovation, and ability to inspire growth while navigating an ever-evolving real estate landscape.
• Pam O’Rorke, Broker/Owner, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Oklahoma Realty, an accomplished real estate leader known for her steady guidance, strong market presence, and dedication to developing agents and building high-performing teams.
Together, these women represent the strength of the network, leaders who show up, deliver results, and lead with purpose, creating influence that extends far beyond their individual markets.
“Great leaders don’t just succeed individually; they create momentum that lifts everyone around them.”
Teresa Palacios Smith
If you’re ready to elevate your leadership and learn from women who are leading with both impact and intention, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
📺 TUNE IN
Streaming Live: WomenWhoLeadSeries
YouTube: bit.ly/WomenWhoLeadwithTeresa
Podcast: Women Who Lead Podcast
Just in case… Everyone, stay safe. Big day tomorrow. It’s official. Signed at 6:00 am. It was even on TV. Mine really turned blue. Don’t forget that tomorrow marks the start of the new Facebook rule (also known as Meta), which allows them to use your photos. Don’t forget the deadline is today!!! Hold your finger anywhere in this message and “copy” will appear. Click “copy”, then go to your page, create a new post, and place your finger anywhere in the empty field. “Paste” will appear, and click Paste. This will bypass the system…. He who does nothing consents. According to the show 60 Minutes: Just in case you missed it, a lawyer advised us to
this. The violation of privacy can be punished by law. NOTE: Facebook Meta is now a public entity. Every member must post a note like this. If you do not publish a statement at least once, it will be technically understood that you are allowing the use of your photos, as well as the information contained in your profile status updates. I HEREBY DECLARE THAT I DO NOT GIVE MY PERMISSION FOR FACEBOOK OR META TO USE ANY OF MY PERSONAL DATA.
03/17/2026
What does it take to build a business that lasts?
Join me for this powerful Women Who Lead conversation featuring three exceptional leaders who are not just succeeding in real estate, they are intentionally designing businesses, developing people, and creating impact that stands the test of time.
✨ Featuring:
Robbie Roberts
Dianne Gordon
Blossom Vernon
In this episode, we go beyond transactions and talk about what it really takes to:
• Build strong, relationship-driven businesses
• Lead with clarity in a changing market
• Create systems and culture that drive long-term success
• Develop agents into true business builders
💬 Come ready to be inspired
☕ And don’t forget to grab your cafecito
🗓 LIVE tomorrow at 1 PM ET
👉 Join here: WomenWhoLeadSeries.com
02/24/2026
I’m excited to welcome Ashley Thomas III, President of NAREB, to the next episode of Diversity MATTERS.
We’ll talk about leadership, legacy, and the work being done to expand access to homeownership and economic mobility — especially meaningful as we celebrate Black History Month.
JOIN US LIVE!
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM PT | 12:00 PM CT | 1:00 PM ET
Streaming Live: Diversity Matters
YouTube: DiversityMattersYouTube.com
11/03/2025
Honored to Join NAHREP Regional Connect Philadelphia! 🇺🇸✨
Tomorrow, I’ll be at the NAHREP Regional Connect event at the beautiful W Philadelphia Hotel (1–5 PM ET), where I’ll have the privilege of hosting a fireside chat with Brad Patt, Regional President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach REALTORS®. Brad’s leadership journey and insights into the future of real estate promise to make this an inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss. 🔥🏡
I hope you can attend! If you haven't registered yet, it is not to late. Register here: https://nahrep.org/regions/northeast/event/
Brad Patt Melissa Cunningham
This month on Diversity MATTERS, Teresa Palacios Smith, Chief Inclusion and Engagement Officer for HomeServices of America, is honored to welcome Bryan Ahn, the newly installed National President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA).
This episode spotlights AREAA’s powerful mission to advance sustainable homeownership within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. Under Bryan’s leadership, the organization continues to champion fair housing, expand access to credit, and strengthen representation across the real estate and mortgage industries.
Together, Teresa and Bryan explore:
• How AREAA’s mission is evolving to meet today’s housing challenges
• The organization’s national initiatives driving advocacy, education, and opportunity
• The importance of unity and allyship in creating inclusive pathways to homeownership
With more than two decades of experience in mortgage banking and a lifelong commitment to service, Bryan brings both professional insight and personal purpose to his new role. His journey from immigrating to the United States from South Korea to leading one of the nation’s most respected housing organizations, embodies resilience, gratitude, and impact.
10/21/2025
I am excited to welcome Bryan Ahn, the newly installed National President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA).
This episode spotlights AREAA’s powerful mission to advance sustainable homeownership within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. Under Bryan’s leadership, the organization continues to champion fair housing, expand access to credit, and strengthen representation across the real estate and mortgage industries.
Together, Teresa and Bryan explore:
• How AREAA’s mission is evolving to meet today’s housing challenges
• The organization’s national initiatives driving advocacy, education, and opportunity
• The importance of unity and allyship in creating inclusive pathways to homeownership
With more than two decades of experience in mortgage banking and a lifelong commitment to service, Bryan brings both professional insight and personal purpose to his new role. His journey from immigrating to the United States from South Korea to leading one of the nation’s most respected housing organizations, embodies resilience, gratitude, and impact.
Bryan Kap Ahn
Tenacity isn’t just a trait, it’s a game-changer.
Behind every breakthrough, every barrier shattered, and every bold move forward…you’ll find women who refuse to quit.
This month on Women Who Lead, we’re spotlighting Tenacious Leaders, powerhouse women who have turned grit into greatness and persistence into impact.
Join Teresa Palacios Smith, Chief Inclusion & Engagement Officer at HomeServices of America, for a high-energy conversation with:
• Wanda Gertin – CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ally Real Estate
• Kim Stevens – Broker & Chief Visionary, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Pocono Real Estate
• Carol Stover – Vice President, East Coast Region, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty
Expect raw insights. Real stories. And leadership lessons you won’t find in a textbook.
Tune in:
Live Broadcast: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 1 PM ET | 10 AM PT
Streaming Live: WomenWhoLeadSeries.com
YouTube: bit.ly/WomenWhoLeadwithTeresa
09/23/2025
Hey I can't wait, this month on Diversity MATTERS, we’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a spotlight on UNITED LATINAS, a national organization committed to elevating Latina leaders and advancing representation in every sector.
Latinas are one of the fastest-growing demographics in the U.S., yet the leadership gap remains striking. While Latinas represent nearly 20% of the U.S. female population, they hold less than 2% of executive positions in corporate America. At the same time, Latinas are driving progress, launching businesses at a rate faster than any other demographic and contributing more than $100 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
UNITED LATINAS is turning these numbers into power. Through speaker circles, leadership training, and mentorship, they are building a movement where Latinas can find, embrace, and elevate their voice and where inclusion and representation fuel innovation and growth.
Join me for this inspiring conversation with Ilhiana Rojas Saldana, Co-Founder & President of UNITED LATINAS, as we highlight an organization whose work is not only about closing gaps but about creating pipelines of diverse leadership that reflect the true fabric of our communities.
Streaming Wednesday, September 24, 2025
10 AM PT | 11 AM MT | 12 PM CT | 1 PM ET
Facebook: Diversity Matters
YouTube: DiversityMattersYouTube.com
Ilhiana RojasSaldana
09/02/2025
Exciting News!
I’m honored to be traveling to Charlotte, NC to speak at the United Latinas, Elevating Our Legacy event! This powerful gathering will celebrate our stories, our impact, and the legacies we are building together.
📍 See Location Details in the Flyer Below
📅 Thursday, Sept. 4th beginning at 5:30pm-8:30pm
I’d love for you to join me and be part of this inspiring event. Simply scan the QR code on the flyer below to register. Let’s elevate our legacy together!
07/21/2025
Ok, this is going to be another powerful Diversity Matters episode featuring my good friends Jerry Ascensio and Sergio Barrajas as we learn more about NHCA! You won't want to miss this episode! Check us out on Wednesday at 10amPT or 1pmET Gerardo Jerry Ascencio Sergio Barajas Gary Acosta Teresa Palacios Smithhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093908113557 or on https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUYrQ14tnM8tgTlRhwfgHMg
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