In this episode of In Search of Excellence Island Style, Larry Gonzales sits down with Jessel Riccardini, a Hawaii REALTOR®, to talk about the mindset, discipline, and consistency that have shaped her journey in both real estate and life. From her humble beginnings in the Philippines to building a successful business in Hawaii, Jessel shares how resilience, structure, and authenticity have helped her stand out in a competitive market.

Guest Bio:

Jessel Riccardini: A REALTOR® based in Hawaii, Jessel has built her business through referrals, client relationships, and authentic connection. Known for her consistency, responsiveness, and strong work ethic, she brings a relationship-first approach to helping clients buy and sell homes on Oahu. IG/FB: @jesselriccardini.

Episode Summary:

This episode explores the habits and principles that have helped Jessel build success across two demanding worlds: real estate and bodybuilding. She shares how fitness gave her confidence, structure, and mental toughness, and how those same qualities now support her real estate business. From waking up at 4:00 AM every day to staying committed to meal prep, prospecting, and client service, Jessel gives listeners a real look at the routines behind long-term success.

Jessel also opens up about her story of working through college in the Philippines, spending time working on a cruise ship in Europe, moving to California, and eventually building a life in Hawaii. She explains why understanding struggle helps her serve clients better, especially first-time homebuyers, and why staying positive and consistent matters even in a tough market.

The conversation also highlights what makes her business model work. Most of Jessel’s business comes from referrals, and she credits that to strong relationships, responsiveness, and staying connected with clients long after closing. She also talks about social media, not as a place to constantly sell, but as a way to show people who she really is and build trust through authenticity.

To close the episode, Jessel shares advice for newer agents: don’t be a secret agent, let people know what you do, build real relationships, and stay consistent. It’s a practical and motivating episode for anyone in real estate, business, or personal growth.

Timestamp Highlights:

00:00 Podcast Welcome
01:20 Meet Jessel Riccardini
03:05 Bodybuilding Origin Story
04:12 National Competition Journey
05:05 Nutrition & Discipline
06:42 Daily Routine Breakdown
11:22 Referral-Based Business Model
14:05 Humble Beginnings Story
18:25 Winning in a Tough Market
22:05 Market Preparation Strategy
27:25 Authentic Social Media Strategy
34:42 Let Them Theory Mindset
37:45 Advice for New Agents
40:42 Pushup Challenge Finale

Key Takeaways:

Discipline in your personal life can strengthen your performance in business, especially when routines create consistency and clarity.
Referral-based success is built through strong relationships, responsiveness, and long-term client care.
Authenticity matters, on social media and in real life, because people connect with who you are, not just what you sell.

Listen Now:
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