We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rock Thomas a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Rock, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you scale up? What were the strategies, tactics, meaningful moments, twists/turns, obstacles, mistakes along the way? The world needs to hear more realistic, actionable stories about this critical part of the business building journey. Tell us your scaling up story – bring us along so we can understand what it was like making the decisions you had, implementing the strategies/tactics etc.

Scaling up in my career was a journey that combined mentorship, strategic action, and a relentless drive to serve others. Early on, I recognized the importance of working smarter, not just harder—a mindset shift that became pivotal in my success. In my real estate career, I achieved a significant milestone by selling 100 homes in a single year. This accomplishment wasn’t just about numbers; it was about understanding client needs and delivering exceptional value.

Today, I’m the CEO of Keller Williams Prestige, but my journey extends beyond that role. I’m a multi-million-dollar investor and broker whose companies have sold over $15 billion in real estate and counting. With over 25 years of experience owning brokerages, I’ve consistently achieved an average of $1 billion per year in sales with Remax and approximately half a billion with KW. Just last year, our results were extraordinary, reaching $781 million in sales.

By focusing on building genuine relationships and continuously improving my skills, I created a scalable model that benefited both my clients and my business. Mentorship also played a crucial role. Learning from those who had walked the path before me allowed me to avoid common pitfalls and implement proven strategies effectively. This experience underscored the power of guidance and community in achieving success.

Scaling up was about more than just expanding my business; it was about personal growth, strategic planning, and a commitment to excellence. These elements combined to create a foundation for sustained success and meaningful impact.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Rock Thomas, a transformational speaker, author, and CEO of Keller Williams Prestige brokerage. My journey began with humble roots on a farm in Canada, where I learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. Through trial, failure, and relentless determination, I discovered my passion for real estate and personal development.

I entered the real estate industry over two decades ago and quickly realized it wasn’t just about properties; it was about helping people achieve their dreams. Today, through Keller Williams Prestige, we provide world-class real estate services that focus on luxury properties while equipping agents with the tools and mentorship to elevate their careers. My brand expands beyond real estate into personal growth programs, including my M1 Tribe and coaching platforms that help individuals unlock financial freedom and live their best lives.

What sets me apart is my holistic approach—I don’t just focus on financial success but also on creating a life of fulfillment and purpose. I solve problems by teaching people how to overcome limiting beliefs and develop strategies for sustained success. Whether it’s helping a family find their dream home or mentoring an entrepreneur to break through barriers, my work is about empowerment.

What I’m most proud of is the ripple effect—seeing people I’ve mentored turn around and inspire others. It’s the legacy of transformation that drives me every day.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One story that stands out is the time I transitioned from being a real estate agent to becoming the CEO of a brokerage. It was a period filled with uncertainty and immense challenges. I had to let go of what I knew and embrace the unknown, leading a team in a new capacity while building a culture that resonated with my vision.

In the early days, we faced market shifts and competitive pressures that could have derailed us. But resilience is about staying the course, finding solutions, and keeping your focus on the bigger picture. I leaned on my core belief that challenges are opportunities for growth. Through grit, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to my team, we overcame obstacles and grew Keller Williams Prestige into a powerhouse in the real estate industry.

Resilience isn’t just about enduring tough times; it’s about thriving because of them. That experience reinforced my belief in the power of mindset and community, lessons I continue to teach today.

Let’s move on to buying businesses – can you talk to us about your experience with business acquisitions?

Yes, I’ve acquired businesses, most notably the Keller Williams Prestige brokerage. The decision to buy wasn’t just about financial opportunity—it was about the vision I had for what it could become. I saw the potential to create a community of agents who would not only excel professionally but also grow personally.

The acquisition process involved thorough due diligence, understanding the market, and building a clear roadmap for the future. I assessed the team, the existing culture, and the opportunities for growth. Post-acquisition, it was about aligning everyone to a shared vision and implementing systems to scale efficiently.

What made it successful was not just focusing on the numbers but on the people. Investing in leadership, training, and creating a supportive environment transformed the brokerage into a thriving ecosystem where agents feel empowered to achieve their best. Buying a business isn’t just about ownership—it’s about stewardship and cultivating potential, which is what I strive to do every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rockthomas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockthomas/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockThomasPrivate
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockthomas/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RockThomas