Reflections from Worthshop9 on Maui

After a years-long hiatus due to the pandemic, Worthshop returned to Hawai‘i this November with its ninth gathering, themed “Find Your Ground.” I had the privilege of attending and speaking at Worthshop9 at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

A Different Kind of Gathering

Worthshop is not a traditional real estate conference. While luxury real estate remained at the heart of the conversation, the two days encompassed so much more. We explored how we maintain our health and well-being, how emerging technologies are reshaping not just our marketing but our fundamental approach to client relationships, and how we can contribute meaningfully to our communities.

The gathering brought together professionals from across the real estate industry and adjacent fields, with attendees from throughout the Hawaiian Islands and the continental United States. It was a true meeting of minds, where authentic connection replaced conventional networking.

The conversations about Hawai‘i and our sense of place were critical. For those of us who live and work here, and for many attendees who have deep connections to the islands, discussing what it means to honor and preserve the unique character of Hawai‘i while serving in luxury real estate felt both timely and necessary.

Sharing the Stage With Industry Leaders

One of the highlights of Worthshop 9 was being a featured panelist on the “Top Agent” panel held on the first day of the event. I was so honored to share the stage with Jade Mills and Latham Jenkins, two agents I’ve looked up to for many years. 

Being on stage with Jade and Latham was definitely a “pinch-me” moment.

Jade Mills brings an extraordinary perspective from her work in Beverly Hills luxury real estate, where she has established herself as Coldwell Banker’s #1 agent worldwide. Her insights into ultra-luxury markets and global clientele added invaluable depth to our conversation.

Latham Jenkins, a top producer in the Rocky Mountain region, flew in from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. His philosophy of “connecting people with experiences” perfectly aligned with Worthshop’s focus on what grounds us in our work and lives.

Together, we explored what it truly means to serve at the highest levels of our industry—not just in terms of transactions, but in how we guide clients through life-changing decisions.

Looking Forward

I’m grateful to have been part of this year’s gathering, to have shared insights with fellow panelists who are leading with integrity in their markets, to present my listings to attendees, and to have connected with colleagues who are all seeking to elevate how we serve our clients and communities.

Thank you to Hawai‘i Life’s Matt Beall and Kahea Zietz for being the fearless, compassionate, and innovative leaders you are. Worthshop9 reminded me why I do this work—and renewed my commitment to doing it with purpose, presence, and aloha.