Real Estate Professional Achieves Remarkable Milestones and Inspires with a Focus on Helping Others. -Jerome McNair

I recently had the opportunity to visit with Ken Varilek commonly known as Kenny V. in his home is Slatington. I have to say the addition to his home is stunning. The details and the finishes are top notch. The views are amazing. Here is how the conversation went.

(Jerome) Hey Ken, first off thank you for inviting me into you lovely home. I’m still overtaken by the view. This dining room is simply breathtaking. I want to thank you for taking the time to sit down with me and discuss your latest accomplishments and how you got here.

I can’t believe two things. You actually answered my call when I reached out and you were so approachable. Secondly, you granted this interview for a press release to Success Magazine without hesitation.

(Ken) Sure thing. It’s been one of my main points to give freely of my time and knowledge whenever anyone asks for it. And, you asked. So, what in the world can I do for you?

(Jerome) Well, I’m going to settle in with this wonderful espresso that you made for me and ask you some questions that I think everyone is wondering. So, last night you were awarded Number 1 Listing Agent in PA at your regional event. What’s the secret sauce?

(Ken) It’s actually very simple. Helping people. You see most people don’t just get up and move. It’s an arduous event. That means that there is a life event driving the move. If you truly care and crave to understand the event and the circumstances two things happen.

First you fully understand the problem and you can offer a solution. Second and more importantly they know that you really care. When you actually care it is no longer a transaction it is a goal and I help them accomplish it. Then it becomes us against life. And that’s a neat battle.

(Jerome) I get it. But they pay you to do this so is it really giving?

(Ken) it is. They pay for the transaction but the understanding, the compassion and the friendship are the gift. There are two things that Jim Rohn said that have shaped my business.
1. “If I help enough people get exactly what they want I can have everything I want” and…
2. He said that he would do what he does for free. I will too. “I don’t need the money, I’ll take it, but I don’t need it.”

That’s giving. Truly pouring everything that you have into their goals and dreams. I get compensated for the transaction not the caring. Does that make sense?

(Jerome) Yes, Yes it does. I have another question but I need to ask your permission to ask it.

(Ken) No you don’t. Questions are free. Ask away.

(Jerome) Well, um (long pause) You’re an, um, drug addict aren’t you?

(Ken) Glares are him a while for dramatic effect. No, I’m not.
I’m a grateful recovering drug addict.

(Jerome) I don’t understand the difference. What does that mean.

(Ken) Don’t worry I didn’t either the first time I heard it. I remember Alicia standing up and identifying as a grateful recovering addict. I thought what is wrong with you? This disease is horrible. I’m a lot of things and grateful is NOT one of them.

What I have come to understand is that it’s the twelve steps and the principles of AA and NA that have made me who I am. I am simply amazed at how similar the principles of living sober are exactly the same as being successful in business.

I plan to write a book about it someday but for now I will tell you that I am truly grateful and I had to go through everything I went through to become the man I am today. I kind of like that man. From homeless and strung out under a bridge to number one agent in the state. It only took 32 years to become an overnight success (huge smile on his face)

(Jerome) Wow, I would definitely like a copy of that book.

(Ken) You can have a signed copy. I promise. And, I always keep my promises.

(Jerome) Awesome. One more question if you don’t mind.

(Ken) Nope, Go ahead.

(Jerome) I see that you give 10% of your gross to Christian based recovery programs. And you give your time to NA and AA locally. Tell me more about what drives that.

(Ken) That’s my entire world. See, I’m one of the lucky ones. Not because I’m successful but because I was able to put down the drugs and alcohol and not pick them up again. Well at least I didn’t so far.

God blessed me by removing the compulsion to use or drink. I’m not sure when it happened, all I know is that it did.

You see I remember a meeting over 30 years ago when Eddie S. got his 30-year coin. I remember saying to myself that I want one of those. I wanted it so much that I asked him how he did it.

Now, remember I am maybe 6 months without a drink or drug. Definitely not sober yet. He looked me right in the eyes and said “Don’t drink and go to a meeting.”

I’ll be honest. I was wanting something more, Like a secret ritual or something. He said “It’s simple but not easy. One Day at a Time, don’t drink and go to a meeting.”

I still remember the day I got my 30-year coin. Tears of Joy flowed like someone turned on the faucet. I also remember thinking it was everything I expected it to be and much much more. I had no idea who I needed to become to receive that coin. God did and he helped me to become that man. It’s not the coin. It’s becoming who I needed to be to receive that coin.

…Hands Jerome a tissue and takes one for himself…

I took a vow to be the “Eddie S.” for someone else. I need to be visible and let the newcomer know that it works if you work it one day at a time. And, if you want what I have it’s simple but not easy and it’s worth it. Just don’t drink and go to a meeting. You have to give it away to keep it. That’s why I go.

(Jerome) Well I have to say I was not expecting that but I am glad you shared. Any parting words?

(Ken) Yes, you can be what you will to be. Set you mind to something and DFQ!

(Jerome) DFQ?

(Ken) Don’t F*cking Quit!