Today we’d like to introduce you to Paige McKinney.
Hi Paige, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always been passionate about psychology and advocacy, which initially led me to pursue a degree in psychology. However, as I approached graduation, I realized that while I loved the subject, the career path didn’t align with the lifestyle and freedom I envisioned for myself.
Right out of college, I stepped into the healthcare industry, focusing on administrative and operational roles. My passion for impact-driven work soon guided me into the non-profit sector, where I quickly advanced and found myself working with one of Dallas’ largest non-profits, directly supporting the CEO. I loved my role—being deeply involved in operations and client care while gaining exposure to all facets of the organization was an incredible honor. However, over time, I felt the emotional toll of the work. Non-profit work is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be heavy, and I found myself craving a change—something that would allow me to continue making an impact but in a way that felt more sustainable.
That’s when my wife and I made the decision to move from Dallas to Boise. Through connections, I was introduced to a real estate team that blended advocacy, community, and business in a way I had never seen before. Their mission resonated deeply with me, and I was inspired by their heart-centered approach to real estate. I applied for an administrative role and quickly found myself growing alongside the company as it expanded.
Today, I serve as the Director of Operations at HomeFound Group, where I get to blend my passion for advocacy, community engagement, and operational excellence. It’s the perfect balance—allowing me to contribute to meaningful work while also creating a career and lifestyle that align with my personal values.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not! The journey has been incredibly rewarding, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the biggest struggles has been navigating balance—finding a way to pour into my work while also taking care of myself. Working in the non-profit sector was deeply fulfilling, but the emotional weight of the work was something I didn’t anticipate. Being so immersed in operations and client care at a high level, I saw firsthand the impact we were making, but I also felt the toll it took on me over time. It became clear that I needed to find a way to continue doing meaningful work in a more sustainable way.
Another challenge has been building a professional career while being young. Stepping into leadership roles early on came with a steep learning curve—figuring out how to establish credibility, set boundaries, and grow into leadership while still learning myself. Transitioning from non-profit to real estate was also a shift; adapting to a new industry, learning the business side of things, and growing with a rapidly expanding company all required me to be flexible and step outside of my comfort zone.
Despite the challenges, every step of the journey has shaped me. I’ve learned that growth often comes in the most uncomfortable moments, and through it all, I’ve been able to carve out a career that aligns with both my professional ambitions and personal values.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the Director of Operations at HomeFound Group, I wear a lot of hats—honestly, it’s hard to pin down exactly what I do because my role is so dynamic. A better way to put it might be: *What don’t I do?* Operations is the backbone of any business, and I thrive in the space between structure and adaptability, ensuring everything runs smoothly while also making space for growth and innovation.
If I had to define my specialty, it would be relationships and support. I have a deep passion for helping and growing both people and businesses. Whether it’s creating efficient systems, problem-solving on the fly, or simply being the person people know they can count on, I take pride in being a steady, supportive presence. I’m known for my can-do attitude, my ability to go with the flow, and my deep-rooted commitment to the people I work with.
What I’m most proud of is my growth—not just in my career, but in my mindset. I’ve learned to lean into discomfort, challenge myself, and embrace opportunities that push me beyond my comfort zone. That willingness to adapt and take on new challenges has been key in shaping my journey, and it’s what continues to set me apart.
At the end of the day, my work is about more than just operations—it’s about fostering a culture of support, adaptability, and continuous growth, both for the business and the people in it.
How do you think about happiness?
At the core of it all, my happiness comes from connection, movement, and intentionality. My wife, my fur baby Koda, and my family are my foundation—they bring me so much joy and keep me grounded. No matter how busy life gets, having that support system reminds me of what truly matters.
Being outdoors and moving my body is another huge source of happiness for me. Whether it’s a walk, a hike, or just being outside in fresh air, there’s something about movement that clears my mind and fills my heart. It’s not just about staying active—it’s about being present, intentional, and making space for things that bring peace and fulfillment.
At the end of the day, happiness for me is found in the little things: supporting the people around me, embracing growth, and creating a life that aligns with my values. That balance between personal connection, purpose, and movement is what truly fills me up.
