Meet Raymond Smith | Realtor, Radio Host, Retired Air Force

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

Hi Raymond, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
Believing in myself has helped me succeed. There are always going to be obstacles in life. A mentor of mine once said that if you never failed, then you never really tried. You will encounter uncomfortable situations in job positions, how you react and overcome those challenges is what will contribute to your eventual success. It is not arrogant to believe you are the best, but you must show others what you are capable of accomplishing. Have faith in your abilities and trust in yourself that you will make the right decisions.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I retired from the USAF as an E-8 and went to work with Raytheon Missile Systems, culminating to the position of International Program Manager. After that, I became a Realtor working with my wife. We are busy professionals providing our passion to the real estate community one client at a time, ensuring our relationships with our clients are strong. Additionally, my wife and I have a local radio show that focuses on the real estate industry and highlights local leaders who are impacting our community in a positive way. We also Chair or Co-Chair multiple non-profits organization in Tucson and spend our free time supporting our local sports teams. Real estate, the radio show, charities, and our support of local teams fills our time nicely, because it allows us to stay actively engaged in the Old Pueblo while staying in tune with the community we love.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would first go to the Arizona Sand Club at the University of Arizona football stadium; the views are speculator, the food is phenomenal, and the atmosphere cannot be matched. We would play golf at Arizona National Golf Club and Ventana Canyon Golf Resort where you can see some of the best views in Tucson. We would dine at El Charro for authentic Mexican food, and probably head towards the newly revitalized downtown and stop in at a small quaint place called Batch where they have over 100 types of Bourbons and Single Malt Scotches. We would visit the Pima Air and Space Museum to witness aviation history, where you can see vintage aircraft and learn how they shaped the world of aviation. In the evening we would do a tequila toast at the Marriott Starr Pass Resort and see the spectacular views of the Tucson City lights. The last night would be spent sitting out in my backyard, looking at the mountains while grilling steaks and smoking ribs on the Traeger grill enjoying the beautiful sunset and the star lit skies at night.

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?
First to my God, all things are possible through him and then Mr. Milicia, my 5th grade teacher. I grew up in the projects in Philadelphia, PA where the future does not look bright when you are in a fog of poverty. Mr, Milicia’s encouragement was the fuel that kept me focused to be successful. That little slither of hope grew stronger with time and it’s what I still think of when I tackle any new situation. I will thank the USAF, who instilled in me discipline, and how treat everyone with respect and honor, regardless of their position in life. Also, to my girls Ilyana and Selena for their unwavering love and support and keeping their old dad humble, and finally, to my lovely wife Sandra, who keeps me striving for the next great adventure and I am sure without her I would not be where I am today, she is an amazing woman, and a blessing and gift to me.

Website: Raymond.Indie-Realty.com