In the latest episode of the Real Estate Moguls Podcast, Grigory Pekarsky, co-founder and managing broker of Vesta Preferred Realty, offers a rich tapestry of insights that interweave the hard-earned truths of the real estate industry with the personal growth that accompanies entrepreneurial ventures.

Grigory’s journey from a potential veterinary path at Michigan State to leading a top real estate team in Chicago paints a vivid picture of how adaptability and resilience pave the way to success.

His story is one of transformation and tenacity. Born in Moscow and raised in Detroit before making a leap to Chicago, his initial career aspiration was to become a veterinarian. However, his true calling lay elsewhere. Grigory realized, “I love animals, not so much the pathway of being a veterinarian,” a revelation that led him to pivot towards finance and eventually real estate.

His philosophy extends beyond mere business metrics, focusing profoundly on personal fulfillment and mental well-being. Grigory’s approach is encapsulated when he explains, “It's almost like you have these alter egos; one of them is Party Greg, but there’s also Work Greg and Family Greg. You got to go all in for all of them.” This philosophy highlights the importance of balance and the understanding that success in any field requires a holistic commitment.

A cornerstone of Grigory’s success is his emphasis on the ‘why’ behind actions rather than just the outcomes. “We never focus on results... You can't control your results,” he states, underscoring a philosophy that values process over product. This mindset shift is crucial, especially in an industry as volatile as real estate.

Vesta Preferred stands out not just for its business achievements but for its rigorous selection process, emphasizing attitude and work ethic over mere experience. Grigory is clear on this, noting, “I don't care if you did $20 million in real estate... I’d rather take somebody that's fresh out of college, that is just hungry and wants to learn.” This approach ensures that the team remains agile and aligned with the company’s core values, fostering an environment where every member contributes to and benefits from the collective success.

The discussion also delves into the complexities of leadership within such a high-stakes industry. Grigory acknowledges the challenges and potential pitfalls of partnerships and recruitment. He candidly shares lessons from previous failures, emphasizing the growth that comes from them: “Fifteen years of failure will get you there... We've been pretty on fire for the last five years.” His story is a testament to the idea that enduring success often follows numerous trials and errors, each providing valuable lessons.

Moreover, Grigory’s narrative is a compelling reminder of the importance of authenticity and adaptability in leadership. His strategies for recruitment and team building, particularly in leveraging social media and digital platforms to enhance Vesta’s brand and attract the right talent, illustrate a forward-thinking approach to modern real estate practices.

Grigory Pekarsky’s episode offers more than just a glimpse into the life of a successful real estate broker—it provides a blueprint for personal and professional growth. His journey encourages us to embrace change, prioritize mental health, and always strive for a balanced life, lessons that are applicable far beyond the realm of real estate.