Meet Forward Coaching’s Leadership
Learn more about our founders, Debbie De Grote and Ben Kinney, and their dedication to empowering real estate professionals.
Your Expert Real Estate Coach
Debbie De Grote
Debbie began her career in real estate at just 18 years old, quickly rising to become one of the nation’s top agents. With over 156 units closed annually—her production supported by just one administrative assistant—Debbie became a role model for aspiring agents. Over 16 years, she closed over 3,000 transactions, cementing her reputation as an expert in her marketplace and leading others to seek her out as a real estate coach.
At the height of her career, Debbie was awarded the prestigious Hall of Fame award by Century 21, becoming the first agent in the company’s history to achieve this honor. Beyond her sales career, Debbie managed large offices, assisted in recruiting top talent, and developed strategic plans for expanding brokerage operations in Orange County.
Her success and expertise attracted opportunities to speak, train, and consult, leading her to discover her passion for coaching. Over the last 20 years, Debbie has become one of the industry’s most sought-after real estate coaches, working with elite salespeople and brokers across North America and with mortgage, title, escrow, and insurance professionals.
In 2013 after working as a real estate coach and leader in two large coaching organizations, she decided it was time to launch her own company dedicated to high level, customized coaching and consulting. She believes every agent, broker, and brand is unique, so her coaching is tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Her approach ensures a personalized experience for those ready to achieve new levels of success.
Debbie’s deep industry roots are reinforced by her family’s involvement in real estate. Her husband, Don, is a top-producing agent with over 35 years of experience, while her daughter Erika runs a transaction coordination business, and her daughter Taylor serves as the President of Forward Coaching.
Her philosophy is simple:
“We’re not a coaching solution for the masses. We’re here for those serious about taking their business to the next level.”
Proven expertise
Debbie DeGrote by the Numbers
coaching calls completed
years of coaching experience
real estate transactions
A Visionary Real Estate Coach
Ben Kinney
Ben Kinney is a businessman, real estate agent, and best-selling author who brings innovation and leadership to Forward Coaching. As Co-Founder of both Forward Coaching and PLACE, Ben’s influence extends across real estate, technology, and business coaching. His extensive career as a real estate coach and entrepreneur has helped countless professionals achieve success.
Ben founded the Ben Kinney Companies, including Brivity, ActiveRain, and other industry-leading platforms. His companies have been featured on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Ben has personally mentored over 100,000 business owners through conferences, webinars, and training sessions.
With his hands-on approach and innovative mindset, Ben continues to inspire agents and entrepreneurs to reach their full potential.
Proven expertise
Ben Kinney by the Numbers
business owners trained
real estate team locations
homes sold last year
Why Choose Forward Coaching?
At Forward Coaching, we connect you with a dedicated real estate coach to help you navigate the industry’s challenges. Whether you’re looking to scale your business, improve your systems, or sharpen your skills, Debbie, Ben, and the Forward Coaching team are here to provide tailored guidance for measurable growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Forward Coaching’s leadership team unique in the real estate industry?
Forward Coaching’s leadership team combines the expertise of Debbie De Grote, a top real estate coach with decades of industry experience, and Ben Kinney, a successful real estate entrepreneur. Their combined backgrounds in coaching, sales, and business innovation set Forward Coaching apart as a leader in real estate professional development.
What are the backgrounds of Forward Coaching’s founders, Debbie De Grote and Ben Kinney?
Debbie De Grote is a nationally recognized real estate coach and former top-producing agent with over 3,000 closed transactions and 100,000 coaching calls. Ben Kinney, Co-Founder of Forward Coaching, is a successful entrepreneur and real estate industry leader known for building innovative companies and supporting the professional development of real estate agents nationwide.
How can Forward Coaching’s real estate coaching benefit realtors and brokers?
Forward Coaching offers customized real estate coaching designed to help realtors and brokers grow their business, improve sales, and develop leadership skills. With Forward’s customized coaching, clients receive tailored support to reach their goals and maximize success in the real estate industry.
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