Entrepreneurship runs deep in my blood. If you come from a family of business owners, you understand the desire to create something from just a small idea forming in your mind. For years, I worked as a realtor, helping clients find their perfect homes here in Rapid City and throughout The Black Hills, but I knew I had to make some decisions about my future goals. That’s when my son Cody asked, “Mom, why don’t you open your own firm?” His words planted a seed in my heart, and I started to pray and ask God for guidance.
Starting a business wasn’t new to me—our family has owned restaurants, a hotel, gas stations, and retail stores. I knew what it took to build and sustain a business, but there was one thing I wasn’t particularly fond of: choosing a name. So, I turned to my family for ideas while I moved forward, earning my broker’s license and preparing for the next step.
One night, I found myself overwhelmed with doubt. Negative thoughts filled my mind, and I wrote them all down. The next morning, I made a conscious decision—next to every negative thought, I wrote, “God is greater.” That simple exercise shifted my mindset and gave me the strength to keep pushing forward.
Then, because we had lived in Alaska for decades, my husband Rick sent me a list of Alaskan names. One word stood out: Denali. In the Athabascan language, it means “The Great One.” The name resonated deeply with me because my God is the Great One. I envisioned a logo with a majestic mountain, symbolic of strength, stability, and faith. As I continued to pray, I found confirmation everywhere. The next morning, my devotion was about mountains—how in the Bible, God often met His people on mountains, and how we are called to be mobile mountains, shining His light. That Wednesday, our church sermon was also about mountains. It was clear—I had found the perfect name.
God has opened so many doors for this journey, and I am incredibly blessed to have a family that has supported me every step of the way. My oldest son, Chris, will be working alongside me as an Associate Broker when he’s not serving as a Rapid City Police Officer. My talented niece, Kiana McCrackin, has crafted our brand, website, and social media presence. Every member of my family has contributed ideas, encouragement, and prayers to make this dream a reality.
At Denali Real Estate Group, we see every property not just as a listing but as a precious story, a slice of our client’s life that we treat with respect and care. We are committed to maximizing exposure by being part of both local MLS platforms. We provide insights to help sellers prepare their homes for showings and work with professional photographers and videographers to create top-tier marketing content.
For buyers, we’ve assembled a network of the best professionals in the industry—lenders, title agencies, home inspectors, and insurance agents—so that your home-buying journey is seamless and stress-free. Whether it’s your first home or your tenth, we’ll be there to guide you every step of the way.
We would love for you to be part of the Denali Real Estate Group family. If you’re looking to buy or sell, let’s make this journey together!
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