Thank You - IAC, 2018 Jacksonville

After a much needed year off from NAA, I am up filling out the IAC contest form and it asked about a favorite memory:

One of the greatest moments of my career came in 2018—the very first year I stepped onto the IAC stage. I was nervous, unsure of myself, and surrounded by some of the most talented auctioneers in the country. I never imagined that I would walk away as the 2nd runner-up in Jacksonville, Florida. That moment changed everything. I don’t want to say or assume winning wouldn’t top it, but it will be hard to top that moment.

Weeks earlier, Justin Ochs had given me some advice, saying, "When you reach the side stage, be prepared, because they're already scoring you."

I recall looking up, terrified, and seeing Amy Assister's smile, which was very kind and warm. We had never met—I didn't know any of the judges.

Without exaggeration, securing third place in my debut IAC competition was more than merely winning a trophy—it marked a pivotal moment. It boosted my confidence to elevate my career, opened doors, ignited new connections, and confirmed to me that I belonged among the top professionals in this field.

During the interview, one of the questions Spanky asked was about "Auctions being a last resort and how to overcome that stigma". It took me the full two minutes to answer, and I knew I could improve. It prompted me to refine my beliefs and was the catalyst to creating a world class explanation of services that has been refined to excellence.

Since 2018, I have been more successful than I ever imagined. It's amusing how a simple contest can have such an impact.... And that was with a 3rd place finish.

It's easy for everyone to feel jaded and burned out with too much NAA. Sometimes, classes might be uninspiring, the food or hotel might not be ideal, and the cost of attending the entire week can be overwhelming. However, that's just part of life. You need to take action, and you get out of it what you put into it. This is one of the rare opportunities in life focused exclusively on the auction industry.

My experience in 2018 ignited my motivation and enhanced my admiration for the IAC and the NAA community. I will forever be thankful for the bravery to participate, the insights I gained, and the lasting influence that one memorable moment had on my path as an auctioneer.

2018 International Auctioneering Contest Photo