Meet Barkley Romero

Written by Tom Kelly

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Barkley created Glendale Gratitude to help her neighbors stay connected during isolation. What began as a small Facebook group turned into REALgratitude™, a company that empowers realtors to integrate community service into their practice. This led to the creation of REALblox, a platform built on blockchain technology to promote transparent, secure, and equitable real estate transactions. Her Indigenous heritage inspires my mission to create a balanced and harmonious industry, blending innovation with values for a more connected and impactful real estate ecosystem.

What inspires you?

I find inspiration in the beauty and resilience of nature, which continually reminds me of the importance of balance, adaptability, and harmony.

Humanity’s shared experience fuels my work; I’m passionate about communal capitalization that elevates society and honors the human experience at every turn.

Learning is a lifelong journey, and the pursuit of new knowledge—whether it’s in technology, history, personal growth or something random, to me there is no such thing as useless knowledge — curiosity keeps me energized and alive.

Tell us a little more about your current role with your organization and how it has impacted the start-up ecosystem here in the greater Phoenix region.

I lead REALgratitude™ and REALblox™, focusing on innovation and community connection. REALgratitude™ transforms real estate transactions into opportunities for community uplift, while REALblox™ uses tech to make transactions safer, faster, and more transparent. Together, these companies are reshaping the industry, contributing to Phoenix’s start-up ecosystem by prioritizing community impact and transparency.

Can you discuss your experience at Venture Café Phoenix and any impact the event has had on your organization?

Venture Cafe has been crucial in combating the isolation of entrepreneurship, providing a space to connect with like-minded founders and innovators. It’s allowed me to build relationships, showcase my companies, and gain valuable insights and education that have contributed to my growth as a founder and the success of REALgratitude™ and REALblox.

Venture Cafe Thursday gatherings have provided essential community, feedback, and networking opportunities that have fueled my growth as an entrepreneur. Through these events, I’ve made valuable connections, showcased my companies, and gained the education and support needed to become a better founder.

Most Impactful Book?

The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz

Biggest Successes/Most Fulfilling Moments

My most fulfilling moments are spent with loved ones, who keep me grounded during the challenges of entrepreneurship. While I’m passionate about my work and its potential to make a positive impact, it can be exhausting and isolating. It’s through their love and support that I’m reminded why it’s all worth it.

Biggest Failures and Lessons Learned

One of my biggest mistakes as an entrepreneur was expanding my team too quickly and not being selective enough, which led to having to let go of several team members. My biggest lesson has been the importance of maintaining faith—without it, it’s impossible to inspire others and lead through uncertainty. Faith in the mission and my team is what keeps me going during tough times, ensuring I lead with confidence and resilience.

Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs and People Looking for their Passion

When starting a business, focus on solving problems, not just making money. True passion comes from the impact you make, and when driven by purpose, the challenges become manageable. Solve problems, and the money will follow, keeping you energized and motivated.

The entrepreneurial journey isn’t always linear, and setbacks are inevitable, but success is about how you navigate the bumps along the way. Surround yourself with supportive people and stay connected to your bigger purpose, as passion and community will help you push through challenges. Keep going—what you’re building matters, both for you and the world.

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