We were lucky to catch up with Gabrielle Thompson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabrielle, thanks for joining us today. undefined

A crucial part of being a successful business owner is understanding what works for you and knowing when to innovate. Early in my career, I realized that innovation wasn’t just about big, disruptive ideas—it was about finding creative solutions that aligned with my strengths and goals. In my industry, breaking away from traditional practices rooted in outdated values can be particularly challenging, but I’ve always been driven to push those boundaries.

One example of this was during my time in student housing. I noticed the organization lacked a marketing department, which presented both a challenge and an opportunity. Recognizing the need for better outreach, I proposed a new position tailored to my skills—one that allowed me to work semi-remotely (as I was about to move to another city) while still attending key events. To support this role, I suggested implementing a team-building software that enhanced communication, ensured accountability, and kept everyone aligned on their tasks. This solution not only addressed my need for flexibility but also improved overall team efficiency.

Today, I apply that same innovative mindset to my digital magazine. I empower my team to tap into their creativity and take ownership of their roles. By fostering an environment that values independence and collaboration, we’ve built a culture where everyone contributes, feels less stressed, and works together toward our shared goals.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I got into property management as a result of being with someone whose career is in architecture. I found a passion for leasing because it allowed me to work directly with clients, helping them find their next home and acting as a bridge to one of life’s biggest decisions. This experience sparked a desire to take control of my career and become my own boss. I took the leap, formed an LLC, and launched my own leasing consulting business. I also decided to enroll in real estate school. While my work has expanded beyond leasing, I always find joy in positively engaging with people every day.

This entrepreneurial spirit led me to pursue another passion—creating a digital magazine. Co-founded with my editor, Hanna Perry, we developed a platform specifically designed to give new and inexperienced writers an opportunity to showcase their work. It’s incredibly fulfilling to build something that not only brings me joy but also supports others in pursuing their creative dreams.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation in the market has been rooted in being both relatable and approachable. People respond best when they feel seen, heard, and understood, so I’ve always made it a priority to meet clients where they are. Whether it’s a first-time renter, a seasoned property owner looking for a tenant, or a writer seeking a creative outlet, I strive to establish genuine connections by understanding their unique needs and challenges.

Equally important has been my commitment to excellence in everything I do. I’ve always set high standards for myself, ensuring that my work reflects both quality and care. This mindset isn’t about perfection—it’s about continuously learning, growing, and delivering the best results I can. By pairing this dedication with a personal, human-centered approach, I’ve earned the trust of clients, collaborators, and partners.

Ultimately, I believe my reputation has been built on balancing professionalism with authenticity. By showing up as my best self and consistently prioritizing the people I work with, I’ve created lasting relationships and a strong foundation in my market.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn early in my career was the belief that success only comes from “waiting your turn” or “paying your dues.” Corporate America often teaches young professionals that advancement is a slow, linear process requiring years of routine work before you’re even considered for opportunities to grow. I bought into that mindset at first, but I quickly became frustrated when I didn’t see the progress I was hoping for. Despite consistently putting in effort and trying to voice my ambitions, my contributions often felt overlooked, and I remained stuck in roles that didn’t allow me to shine.

I realized that simply following the rules wasn’t going to help me achieve the career fulfillment I was seeking. The pivotal moment came when I understood that I needed to think beyond the box I’d been placed in and take control of my own path. Instead of waiting for someone to grant me the opportunity to excel, I created my own. This mindset shift led me to take the leap into entrepreneurship, starting my own business where I could focus on the work I was passionate about and make decisions that aligned with my values and goals.

Unlearning this lesson wasn’t easy, but it taught me the importance of valuing my own potential and having the courage to take risks. Striking out on my own wasn’t just about becoming my own boss—it was about reclaiming my agency and redefining what success looked like for me. It’s a lesson I carry with me every day, and it’s a big reason why I now prioritize helping others discover their own paths to growth and fulfillment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theupandcomingmag.com
• Instagram: gabbydev01
• Facebook: gabrielle.thompson.14224
• Linkedin: gabrielle-thompson01
• Other: Gabrielle Thompson – Leasing Consultant (professional leasing Facebook page)