In this episode of the REB Podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with URBAN X co-founder Steph Kong to explore how their predominantly female workforce is shaping culture, leadership, and performance in real estate.

Kong shares how URBAN X evolved into a business with 80 per cent female leadership and a workforce that is 90 per cent women – not through deliberate strategy, but through the nature of roles focused on compliance, process, and communication.

The discussion explores how a strong culture, built on clear values, accountability, and constant communication, has helped the business scale while maintaining a high-performing team. Kong explains why creating an ownership mindset – supported by clear key performance indicators, structured feedback, and strong onboarding – is essential for developing future leaders and retaining talent.

The episode also examines the cultural challenges that still exist across the real estate sector, including toxic workplaces and ego-driven environments that can drive burnout and push talented professionals away from the industry.

Kong argues that emotional intelligence, transparency, and proactive communication are powerful leadership tools, particularly in high-performing teams where conflict and feedback are inevitable.

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How female-led teams are reshaping real estate culture