Seven Surprising Lessons From First Team’s Trailblazing Leaders

When three powerhouse leaders, CEO Michele Harrington, VP of Business Development Anna Bennett, and VP of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives Lauren Henss, joined the Luxury Presence Podcast, they shared how grit, innovation, and mentorship are rewriting what success looks like for independent brokerages.1. From the Marines to CEO: How Freedom Fueled Harrington’s RiseIf your daily grind feels like it’s shrinking your freedom instead of expanding it, it’s time to reevaluate. Delegate, automate, or shift strategies so your business works for you, not the other way around.2. Why Bennett Seeks “No” in Every ConversationReframe “no” as progress, not failure. Leaning into discomfort builds resilience and opens doors to bigger listings, new markets, and greater opportunities.3. Building Careers, Not Just Closing DealsThink beyond today’s deals. Treat your career like a marathon, making strategic decisions that compound over time, whether you aim to stay solo, lead a team, or open your own brokerage.4. The Surprising Power of Listening to Your AgentsListen first. Whether it’s tech, marketing, or operations, pay attention to what’s already working for top performers before implementing sweeping changes.5. Why First Team Bets Big on Brand-New AgentsMake practice and training a non-negotiable part of your schedule. Even experienced agents need structure to keep skills sharp and confidence high.6. Breaking the Glass Ceiling, One Leader at a TimeLeadership starts with mindset. Step up in your team, brokerage, or community, not only to advance your career, but to create space for others to lead.7. Scaling Smart: Why Expansion Starts With Local OwnershipReal estate is hyperlocal. Blend your deep knowledge of your community with proven systems to grow without losing authenticity.Your Competitive Edge Starts Here