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

Hi Angela, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’m a visionary driven by curiosity, purpose, and faith. My God-given gifts fuel my mission to build authentic, trusting relationships. People are my lifeline—and inspiring, encouraging, and serving them is at the heart of everything I do. Through selling homes, delivering hope, advocating for head trauma healing, hustling with heart, and offering hugs, I’ve built a brand and my business rooted in connection.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The fortune is always in the follow-up—and I don’t just mean money.

I got where I am by being curious, asking bold questions, and stepping out in faith. Taking action. It hasn’t been easy, but consistency in alignment with my life’s mission has been the key.

I’ve learned that slowing down is my real superpower. Every day, I remind myself: “Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.”

Whether I’m following up with someone I just met with real estate, digging deeper to understand a successful path, having powerful and meaningful conversations, or simply asking the question no one else will—I show up with intention. Why? Because you never know unless you ask. You never know unless you step out in faith. Do it afraid. See what happens!

People inspire me. And when I feel I can help someone move forward in life —through connection, encouragement, or simply pointing them to the right person—that’s when I’m fully alive. Being of service to others.

I hustle and work hard every day because I almost lost my life in a car accident in my early twenties. That moment changed everything. Life is fragile, and I don’t take a second of it for granted. That’s why I show up—to serve, to connect, and to make it count. Every single day.

I want the world to know that I’m a super connector. I am hope builder. I am an empowering female leader. I help people move—in life, in healing, and in purpose. How? By selling homes. Offering hugs. Speaking on head trauma recovery. Delivering hope. And showing up with heart and hustle, every single day.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First, we’d start the day with a beautiful hike at Torrey Pines, maybe even take a quick dip in the ocean afterward.
Then we’d swing by Bird Rock Coffee Roasters in Del Mar for a latte—and some hugs. One of my nicknames is The Official Hug Dealer, so I’m always asking my signature hug questions and making sure the amazing baristas feel seen and appreciated.

From there, we’d probably chase down some killer fish tacos before heading to Steak 48 for dinner in Carmel Valley—because I’m all about protein and a perfect steak. The night would definitely end with live music somewhere local. Maybe Monarch or somewhere along the coast.

For me, it’s never just about the places. It’s the people, the vibe, the connection. I’m all about meaningful moments and the simple things that make life full.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m deeply grateful for my relationship with God. “Angela” means Angel, messenger of God, and I’m simply living that calling: to spread the message of hope, kindness and love. I do that in many ways.

I’m thankful for my family for encouraging me to step out in faith and make the move to southern California from New Jersey. I would not be where I am without them inspiring me. I’m also thankful for the incredible communities that support my vision and purpose.

To my team at Angie’s Homes and my brokerage at Keller Williams Carmel Valley—thank you for helping make Angie’s Homes San Diego a trusted name in San Diego real estate specifically north county coastal.

To the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation—I’m honored to serve as a advocate/motivational speaker and board member alongside compassionate leaders helping individuals with brain injury and their families.

To Toastmasters of Carmel Valley—thank you for electing me President of our club and allowing me to lead. Your support fuels my growth and confidence.

Also to The Brax Group—thank you for helping me and editing my content so I can share Hug & Tell and Hugs in the Wild, to everyone across YouTube and social media.

I intentionally surround myself purpose-driven and creative people—and that makes all the difference!

Website: https://www.achieversyndrome.com

Instagram: angie_pennella15

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angieshomessd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angela.pennella.79/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angie_pennella15

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.