Meet Nikki Zotto | Real Estate Educator and Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Zotto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Thank you for asking about the origins of my businesses. The idea for launching my own ventures really stemmed from my diverse background in higher education and real estate, as well as my deep-rooted commitment to making a lasting impact in the real estate industry through education. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of delivering more than 19,000 hours of educational experiences in real estate classrooms nationwide.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
It’s been quite a journey, to say the least. My career began in educational realms—curating over 19,000 hours of classroom experiences nationwide, working with esteemed organizations and universities. That’s where I discovered my true passion: marrying real estate practice with real estate education in a way that could truly revolutionize the industry. My mission as an instructor has been to embody servant leadership, empowering students and inspiring the next generation of professionals to bring compassion, integrity, and ethics into their work. This vision served as the cornerstone when I founded Alacrity Learning Consortium in 2020.

Was it easy? Not at all. Like any entrepreneur, I faced countless challenges—everything from navigating regulatory landscapes in different states to balancing my commitment to academia, board service, and running multiple businesses. What helped me overcome these obstacles was a blend of perseverance, a strong support network, and a clear vision for what I wanted to achieve. Also, hiking with Bruno the Beast, my Australian Shepherd, provides me with those peaceful moments to reflect and recalibrate.

Lessons along the way? First and foremost, never underestimate the power of resilience. There will be setbacks, such as overcoming the haters and bullies, but they are just stepping stones on the path to success. Second, it’s vital to continually update and educate yourself. The real estate landscape is ever-changing, and staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Finally, leadership is not just about directing—it’s about inspiring others to be their best selves. It’s a lesson I’ve carried from the classroom to the professional world.

What do I want the world to know about my brand and story? I want people to understand that Alacrity Learning Consortium is more than just real estate education; it is an incubator for change, inclusivity, and professional growth. I aim for my brand to be synonymous with integrity, innovation, and inclusivity. My ongoing research in women in leadership, organizational change, and diversity, equity, and inclusion is not just academic—it’s the living ethos of what I strive for in my businesses. And I believe that together, we can redefine the future of real estate to be more equitable and ethical for everyone involved.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Phoenix offers an intriguing blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant city life that keeps me constantly enamored. Let’s start with hiking; the Phoenix area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Between Camelback Mountain and the South Mountain Park and Preserve, the hiking options are abundant and diverse, offering trails for all levels. Then there’s the food scene. Phoenix is a melting pot of culinary influences—from high-end restaurants to food trucks, you can find a multitude of flavors that never cease to amaze. For arts and culture, Roosevelt Row provides an incredible display of murals, art galleries, and boutiques that showcase the creative soul of Phoenix. Phoenix offers a rich tapestry of experiences, making it a dynamic and endlessly exciting place to explore.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I wholeheartedly agree that success is a collective endeavor, made possible through the love and support of those around us. So, for my shoutout, I must recognize my rock, my biggest supporter—my husband, Tony. Tony has been with me through every high and low, always standing by my side and championing my dreams and passions. From those late-night brainstorming sessions to being a sounding board for my ideas, he’s been instrumental in helping me shape and achieve my vision. Tony’s unwavering support has not only given me the strength to navigate the complex world of real estate education and practice but has also empowered me to strive for greater heights in everything I do. So here’s to Tony—for always believing in me, even when the odds were stacked against us. Thank you for being my anchor, my confidant, and my greatest ally. You deserve all the credit and recognition in my story.

Website: https://nikkizotto.com/

Instagram: @nikkizotto

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/nikkizotto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki.Zotto1/