Lisa Gardner is joined by Tamela Thornton, a luminary in real estate management, discussing her unwavering integrity, being true to yourself, and her career challenges.  

 

Thornton shares insights into maintaining authenticity and confronting adversity in a closed industry. Raised in a supportive Midwestern environment, she credits her upbringing for shaping her resilience and commitment to excellence. Reflecting on her journey, Thornton emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and empathy in leadership. She advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, urging listeners to uphold standards and empower others. Thornton finds joy in family, music, and nurturing relationships, offering advice to live uncompromised lives by bringing out the best in oneself and others. 

 

Also in this episode:  

 

• Tamela's leadership includes initiatives like Champions of Change, fostering diversity and mentorship in the industry. 

• She has a global perspective from executive roles at Young Brands, PepsiCo, and Starbucks, shaping international markets. 

• Tamela emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal integrity and authenticity, even in challenging professional environments. 

• Tamela's approach to handling both victory and disappointment is grounded in recognizing the hard work and setbacks that contribute to success. 

• She emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and emotional maturity in navigating professional challenges. 

• Tamela advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighting the need for acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities. 

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About Tamela Thorton 

Tamela Thornton, with 30 years in real estate management, analytics, and development, is Head of Client Services for E Smith Advisors and President and CEO of E Smith Communities. She oversees business development, strategic planning, market analysis, site selection, and transaction management. As a founding partner of E Smith Legacy Holdings, she led corporate real estate transitions. Tamela has served national and global clients in market strategy, site selection, leasing, and financial services. Previously, she held executive roles at YUM! Brands and Starbucks, leading construction and development. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and resides in Dallas, Texas. 

 

About Lisa Gardner 

Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children.