In this episode of the Future of Luxury podcast, Julie Faupel, Founder & CEO of REALM, and Shelton Wilder, Founder of Shelton Wilder Group, discuss the changing definitions of luxury in today’s market.

They emphasize the importance of social media engagement and treating customers with respect, highlighting that personal connections and experiences are becoming more valuable than material possessions.

The conversation also touches on generational shifts in wealth and the need for luxury brands to adapt to consumer desires. Ultimately, they argue that integrity and human connection are essential for success in the luxury industry.

👤 Julie Faupel
Founder & CEO, REALM

Julie Faupel, founder and CEO of REALM, has redefined what it means to be a leader in the luxury real estate industry. Recognized as a 2023 Newsmaker by RIS Media and included on the 2023 Luxury Women to Watch list by Luxury Daily, Julie has become a visionary force in bridging the gap between top-performing real estate professionals and their clientele. Her approach? Innovation, community-building, and a steadfast commitment to collaboration. Before founding REALM in 2020, Julie had already established herself as a trailblazer. As cofounder of the largest independent real estate company in the Teton Region and, with her team consistently ranked among the top 100 in the U.S., according to The Wall Street Journal/Real Trends. Her 20-year career in the luxury space, beginning in operations at 5-star luxury hotels, provides her unparalleled insights into consumer psychology and the evolving definition of luxury. REALM, a global community and marketplace for elite real estate advisors, represents cumulative annual transaction volume of $50 billion and climbing. The platform, lauded as 2022’s Luxury Technology of the Year by Inman Media, eliminates traditional industry silos by creating a brand-agnostic, geography-agnostic network. It’s a space where excellence is the only requirement. Julie describes it as “Match-making for real estate professionals,” connecting top producers with others at the pinnacle of their profession while fostering meaningful, resource-efficient collaboration.
“What makes REALM special is that it’s not about competition—it’s about collaboration,” Julie explains. “We leverage technology to foster connections that go beyond the transaction, building relationships rooted in shared values and aspirations.”
This emphasis on community reflects Julie’s deeply ingrained values as a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization, where, in 2024/2025 she served as Global One Chapter chair. Her leadership has earned accolades, including YPO International’s 2023 Regional Membership Award for diversity and the Global One Chapter’s Best of the Best Award, Pacific Region.
Julie’s industry contributions are notable, from being a frequent media expert interviewed by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and The New York Times, to earning awards for innovation and leadership, her impact is undeniable. As the luxury industry continues to evolve, Julie Faupel is ensuring that REALM and its members stay ahead of the curve, championing a future built on collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

👤 Shelton Wilder
Founder, The Shelton Wilder Group

Shelton Wilder is the CEO of The Shelton Wilder Group, a top-producing luxury real estate team serving Los Angeles. Known for her discretion, market savvy, and sharp negotiation skills, Shelton has worked with everyone from celebrities to first-time buyers. She ranked #44 in California and #134 in the nation in the 2024 RealTrends America’s Best rankings, closing over $750M in career sales, including $135M in 2024 alone.

A serial entrepreneur with a background in marketing, fashion, and entertainment, Shelton combines business expertise with a keen eye for design, ensuring each home is showcased at its very best. She’s been recognized as a Real Estate All-Star by Los Angeles Magazine, one of LA Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence, and was nominated for the LA Times Inspirational Women Award.

Specializing in the westside of Los Angeles, Shelton is known for sourcing incredible off-market properties and delivering a smooth, stress-free buying or selling experience. A former fashion entrepreneur and local favorite on Shark Tank, she brings her signature style, thoughtful staging, and strategic marketing to every listing.

Beyond real estate, Shelton is a proud mom, active community supporter, and founder of Wilder Women, a 200-member network of female entrepreneurs. She also hosts the Wilder Possibilities podcast, interviewing inspiring women about pivotal career moments.

REALM Global
https://www.realm-global.com/

Shelton Wilder
https://sheltonwilder.com

🎥 Watch the full video version here:

https://youtu.be/rmCbQ1xWbEw