”Unlock Your Thrive” helps real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and go-getters unlock their potential and to succeed. Join our co-hosts for weekly insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to help you thrive—personally and professionally.
Unlock Your Thrive turns up the voltage in this episode with Joey Gjata, a real estate force who refuses to play small. Joey doesn’t offer a polished origin story. He brings the raw truth of growing up between cultures, teaching in one of Chicago’s toughest corridors, and deciding he wasn’t willing to wait for permission to build the life he wanted. His rise at Keller Williams isn’t luck. It’s grit, strategy, and a refusal to coast. Joey’s global lens and economics background sharpen his instincts, but it’s his unapologetically human approach that sets him apart. He communicates with precision. He empowers clients with conviction. He moves fast and expects results. This episode hits hard for anyone tired of playing it safe and ready to build something real.
Connect with Joey Gjata via Email: josephgjata@kw.com
Facebook @Joseph Gjata – Keller Williams Premiere Properties
#UnlockYourThrive #EntrepreneurMindset #ConsistencyWins #ChicagoRealEstate #KWAgents #BusinessGrowth #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald
27 Jul 2026
EP 16: The $200M Mindset Shift: Michael Thornton on Reinventing Your Career
Michael Thornton’s journey is a masterclass for anyone in business, real estate, or entrepreneurship. In this episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo spotlight how Michael walked away from a lucrative corporate role at Kraft Foods to build a real estate empire in the Chicago suburbs, one grounded in systems, service, and identity. His early struggle, nearly draining his savings before a breakthrough month, becomes a powerful anchor for listeners who are navigating uncertainty, self‑doubt, or the slow beginnings of a new venture.
For entrepreneurs, his approach to boundaries, team leverage, and consultative client service offers a blueprint for sustainable growth. For seasoned professionals, his disciplined planning and refusal to chase shiny objects provide a refreshing reminder of what long‑term success really requires. Whether you’re launching your first business or leveling up your tenth, Michael’s blend of humility, ambition, and strategic thinking will leave you inspired…and ready to thrive with more intention than ever.
Connect with Michael on Instagram: @michaelthornton1
#UnlockYourThrive #EntrepreneurJourney #RealEstateSuccess #BusinessMindset #FaithDrivenLeadership #ChicagoRealEstate #NewEntrepreneurs #PurposeDrivenBusiness #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald
20 Jul 2026
EP 15: You Say You Want It… But Will You Do What It Takes?
Unlock Your Thrive dives deep into the gap between wanting a better life and actually doing what it takes to create one. In this powerful, story‑rich episode, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo unpack consistency, ownership, risk-taking, and the systems that support real transformation. From baseball lessons and generational regret to trusting proven processes, embracing change, and confronting scarcity mindset, this conversation blends heartfelt personal stories with actionable wisdom. It’s honest, energizing, and the kind of episode that stays with you long after you listen.
#UnlockYourThrive #MindsetMatters #ConsistencyWins #PersonalGrowthJourney #AbundanceMindset #RealTalkPodcast #DoTheWork #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald
18 May 2026
EP 14: Thriving in the Now: Eva Sanchez on Success, Community, and Courage
Some stories remind us what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. This is one of them. In today’s episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo spotlight the extraordinary journey of real estate leader Eva Sanchez. From arriving in the U.S. without speaking English to becoming a trusted force in the business community, Eva shares how determination, education, and cultural understanding shaped her path. Her present‑moment philosophy and deep community involvement reveal the mindset behind nearly four decades of client loyalty and $84 million in career volume.
Eva also breaks down today’s competitive market with clarity, offering a candid look at what buyers and sellers face right now. Her story is equal parts inspiring and practical, a reminder that success grows from taking action today, not waiting for the perfect moment. This conversation is rich with wisdom for anyone building a business, a career, or a life rooted in purpose. Thrive in the NOW!
Connect with Eva Sanchez:
Website: https://evasanchez.kw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-sanchez-a44355b/
#UnlockYourThrive #RealEstateLeadership #InspiringJourneys #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #EvaSanchez
4 May 2026
EP 13: The Relationship Driven Business Model That Wins Clients for Life
In this standout episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald sit down with powerhouse real estate leader Margaret Giffin of Keller Williams Premier Properties to explore what it truly means to build a business rooted in service, strategy, and community. With more than $113 million in sales volume and a corporate background leading branding and strategy for global tech clients, Margaret shares how she transformed her executive skill set into a relationship‑driven real estate career. She opens up about the intentional creation of the evergreen “Ellyn and Main” brand, and the concierge‑level client experience that has become her signature. Margaret’s approach redefines what modern real estate service can look like.
Listeners also get a window into Margaret’s “life by design” philosophy: one shaped by global travel, deep community involvement, and a commitment to continuous learning. She discusses her investment journey, her passion for connecting people, and the belief that small, committed groups can create meaningful change. Whether you’re a real estate professional, an entrepreneur seeking sustainable growth, or someone craving inspiration to build a life with intention, this episode delivers powerful insights on leadership, branding, and building a business that puts people first.
Contact Margaret Giffin:
Website: www.ellynandmain.com
Call/Text: (312) 215-2255
#EntrepreneurMindset #ConciergeLevelService #RealEstateLeadership #WomenInBusiness #RelationshipBasedBusiness #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #MargaretGiffin #UnlockYourThrive
27 Apr 2026
EP 12: The Mindset Behind a Fifty Million Dollar Referral-Based Business
In this episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo sit down with top-producing real estate agent and Agent Leadership Council member Dave Vivoda for a conversation that blends business strategy, personal resilience, and the mindset required to grow a referral-driven career. Dave shares how he transitioned from a decade in professional golf to becoming a trusted real estate advisor with more than fifty million dollars in lifetime sales. He explains how the discipline of internal competition shaped his approach to business, helping him tune out industry noise and stay focused on authentic relationships, calm leadership, and continuous improvement.
Dave also opens up about the loss of his mother to early-onset Alzheimer's and how that experience inspired him to organize a benefit concert that raised more than 50K for the Alzheimer's Association. His story highlights the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the importance of building long-term stability through real estate investment. Listeners walk away with insights on navigating today’s interest rate challenges, leading with honesty, and building a business rooted in trust rather than transactions.
Contact David Vivoda:
Text or Call: (630) 947-4452
Website: davidvivoda@kw.com
Areas Served: Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, and the broader Chicagoland area.
Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/
#EntrepreneurMindset #ReferralBasedBusiness #AuthenticSuccess #RealEstateLeadership #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #DaveVivoda #UnlockYourThrive
20 Apr 2026
EP 11: Real Estate Market Shifts: Mindset Strategies for Thriving in a Competitive Market
If you want a real‑time pulse check on one of the most competitive real estate markets in decades, this episode of Unlock Your Thrive is essential listening. Veteran agent Beth Gorz—36 years in the business—offers an unfiltered look at today’s realities: brutally low inventory, cash‑heavy bidding wars, and a market that’s shifting under everyone’s feet. For anyone trying to understand this market—or thrive in it—Beth’s insights are both a wake‑up call and a roadmap.
She explains why even strong offers aren’t cracking the top five. She also digs into the new buyer landscape, including why so many first‑time buyers are now entering the market in their 40s. And she makes a compelling case for why long‑term ownership matters more than ever.
But Beth doesn’t stop at market intel. She opens up about the relationship‑driven strategies that have sustained her multi‑generational business. She shares the mindset work behind her word of the year (“positivity”) and the Golden Rule philosophy that keeps clients returning decade after decade.
#EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth #MindsetMatters #ChicagoRealEstate #ClientRelationships #ReferralBusiness #LeadershipJourney #PositivityMindset #WomenWhoLead #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #BethGorz #UnlockYourThrive
13 Apr 2026
EP 10: How Two Young Entrepreneurs Built a Relationship Driven Business
This episode of Unlock Your Thrive spotlights Emily Kaczmarek and Madison Misiewicz of E&M Co., two rising entrepreneurs reshaping what modern real estate looks like in the Chicago suburbs. Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo explore how these early‑career powerhouses built a partnership rooted in authenticity, community, and a willingness to evolve. From launching a fast‑growing social club to creating relationship‑driven client experiences, Madison and Emily share how consistency, confidence, and imperfect action fuel their momentum. Their story offers a fresh, inspiring look at what it means to build a business that feels human, connected, and future focused.
#RealEstateLeaders #CommunityBuilders #ChicagoSuburbs #ModernEntrepreneur #PodcastForEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurMindset #RealEstateSuccess #BusinessPartnership #WomenInBusiness #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #EmilyKaczmarek #MadisonMisiewicz #UnlockYourThrive
6 Apr 2026
EP 9: Using AI to Level Up Your Business: Step from Overwhelm into Organized Action
In this episode, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo break down how AI is transforming business, leadership, and everyday life. Their discussion is a masterclass in productivity. Cheryl describes how AI now helps her move work forward (e.g., streamlining her coaching business, transforming her real estate prep, organizing her weekends). Jeannine brings a strategic perspective, showing how AI can instantly generate market‑ready content, video scripts, and leadership resources that once took hours.
Together, they dismantle common fears around AI, spotlighting its role as a creative partner, NOT a replacement. Listeners will find real‑world examples of how entrepreneurs, agents, and self‑employed professionals can use AI to work smarter, grow faster, and reclaim their time. The episode also encourages you to stop resisting the future of AI and start putting it to work.
#AIinBusiness #AIPoweredBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #RealEstateInnovation #WorkSmarterLiveBetter #selfemployedprofessionals #RealEstate Entrepreneur #Entrepreneuers #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
30 Mar 2026
EP 8: How Two Entrepreneurs Built a High Trust Real Estate Brand
Find out what happens when two entrepreneurs combine strengths to create a business that grows through relationships. In this episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo sit down with real estate partners Deb Cuchna and Laura Stebbins to explore how their collaboration grew into a successful business. The conversation highlights lessons about the value of mentorship, continuous learning, and strong advocacy for clients. Deb reflects on her decades of experience in relocation and corporate sales, while Laura explains how her background in design and marketing supports their business strategy. Together, they offer insight into building a partnership that lasts, nurturing a client base through personal touch points, and navigating career transitions with confidence and purpose.
#EntrepreneurMindset #RealEstateSuccess #BusinessPartnership #WomenInBusiness #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
23 Mar 2026
EP 7: How One Word Can Shape Your Year
What word are you choosing to guide your energy this year? In this episode, Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald unveil the 2026 theme, “Your potential, Our purpose,” and explore how a single focus word can transform both personal clarity and professional momentum. By aligning your inner growth with business goals creates stronger, more sustainable success.
Jeannine and Cheryl also reveal how their Keller Williams leadership team is bringing this focus word framework to life through business planning, community events, and agent development. Plus, they offer a preview of the inspiring interviews ahead, featuring entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey who are actively unlocking their thrive through purposeful action and meaningful growth.
#FocusWord2026 #YourPotentialOurPurpose #OneWordFocus #RealEstate Entrepreneur #IntentionalLiving #Entrepreneuers #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
11 Sept 2025
EP 6: Unlocking Resilience: Colleen Michalowski's Inspiring Real Estate Journey Beyond Disability
Real estate meets resilience in this standout episode of Unlock Your Thrive. Hosts Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo explore the evolving role of AI in real estate before welcoming guest Colleen Michalowski, a real estate agent whose story redefines resilience. After losing both legs in 2021 due to medical complications, Colleen returned to real estate with unwavering determination, doubling her transactions year over year while navigating showings from a wheelchair with the help of her family. From CRM mastery to mindset breakthroughs, Colleen shares actionable insights for agents at every stage, proving that grit, systems, and heart are the ultimate tools for success.
Connect with Colleen:
Email: colleen.michalowski@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-michalowski-abr-psa-hfr-sfr-c2ex-64569951/
#MindsetMatters #RealtorComeback #CRMWithHeart #DrivetoThrive #NeverGiveUp #WomeninBusiness #RealEstatePodcast #ColleenMichalowski #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
28 Aug 2025
EP 5: Real Estate, Resilience, and Reinvention: Wendy Pusczan’s Blueprint for Thriving Through Change
In this inspiring episode of Unlock Your Thrive, hosts Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo sit down with top-producing real estate agent Wendy Pusczan, whose journey from corporate burnout and personal hardship to multimillion-dollar success is nothing short of remarkable. Wendy shares how she reinvented herself at age 50, built a thriving referral-based business, and became a regional ambassador for luxury real estate—all while staying grounded in service, resilience, and mentorship.
Listeners will gain powerful insights into navigating market shifts, overcoming adversity, and redefining what luxury truly means. Whether you're a new agent, seasoned entrepreneur, or someone seeking motivation to start fresh, Wendy’s story will leave you energized and ready to thrive.
Connect with Wendy:
Website: https://wendypusczan.kw.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendypusczan/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendypusczan12/
#NeverGiveUp #RealEstateResilience #LuxuryIsExperience #ReinventionAt50 #WomeninBusiness #RealEstatePodcast #WendyPusczan #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
7 Aug 2025
EP 4: Thriving Through Adversity: Moe Hannon’s Journey from Athlete to Real Estate Pro
What does it really mean to thrive when life throws you curveballs? In this episode of Unlock Your Thrive, Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald welcome Moe Hannon, a dynamic real estate agent working in both Illinois and Cabo San Lucas. Moe opens up about her journey from elite swimmer to navigating chronic health conditions, including POTS and multiple surgeries, and how she rebuilt her life and career with grit, grace, and a whole lot of heart.
Listeners will gain insight into Moe’s unconventional path into real estate, her philosophy of putting relationships before commissions, and how she balances entrepreneurship with ongoing wellness challenges. With powerful lessons on resilience, mindset, and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen for real estate professionals, wellness advocates, and anyone striving to turn setbacks into strength. Tune in, subscribe, and share with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today.
Connect with Moe: https://kw.com/de/agent/moe-hannon/675333 and/or on Instagram: moeeemoneey
#WomeninBusiness #RealEstatePodcast #MentalHealthMatters #ThrivingThroughAdversity #MoeHannon #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
10 Jul 2025
EP 3: Built to Thrive: How Grit and Vision Fueled One Woman’s Business Success
In the latest episode of Unlock Your Thrive, hosts Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald dive deep into the compelling story of Courtney Kuesis—a real estate agent, interior designer, and remodeling company founder who has built a career on grit, resilience, and a powerful vision. From setbacks to bold reinvention, Courtney’s path is filled with inspiration for anyone carving their own journey. Her passion for creating sanctuary-like homes and her entrepreneurial spirit shine through, offering listeners a dose of design wisdom and heartfelt motivation.
Learn more about Courtney:
www.yourTKdesigns.com
Instagram: Turnkeydesigns
Facebook: yourturnkeydesigns
#DesignInspo #FemaleEntrepreneur #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #PodcastForEntrepreneurs #TurnKeyDesign #CourtneyKuesis #JeanninePrombo #CherylMcDonald #UnlockYourThrive
3 Jul 2025
EP 2: Unbreakable: How Tatiana Hernandez Survived and Thrived Against All Odds
Real estate agent Tatiana Hernandez recounts her journey of resilience and recovery after a life-altering accident, detailing how mindset and determination fueled her personal and professional growth in an interview with Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo.
26 Jun 2025
EP 1: What Does It Mean to Thrive?
Hosts Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald launch their podcast, defining what it means to thrive beyond surface-level success through resilience and intentional choices in this introductory episode.
28 Apr 2025
Trailer: Unlock Your Thrive
Hosts Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald introduce "Unlock Your Thrive," a podcast offering strategies and interviews for real estate agents and entrepreneurs seeking growth.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 18 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
24
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Unlock Your Thrive
Who hosts Unlock Your Thrive?
Cheryl McDonald and Jeannine Prombo host the show. Published by Jeannine Prombo and Cheryl McDonald.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Unlock Your Thrive take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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