Gulf Coast Regional
Real Estate Summit
Lafayette Louisiana
August 27th and 28th
About our Event
Empower yourself with knowledge and choose to be great.
Join us for an inspiring and transformative experience as we gather some of the industry’s leading voices and top producers under one roof. This summit is designed for real estate professionals who are ready to elevate their game and embrace new opportunities.
Prepare to be enlightened by nationally recognized speakers who will share their insights on the latest market trends, innovative business systems, and strategies that drive success. You’ll gain invaluable knowledge on cultivating a winning mindset and harnessing the power of choice to fuel your growth and success.
Network with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and discover the tools that can propel your real estate career to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting, this summit is the perfect platform to learn, connect, and thrive in today’s dynamic market.
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your expertise and transform your approach to real estate. Welcome to a day filled with learning, motivation, and community!
NextHome Cutting Edge Andrus Boudreaux Complete Title
NextHome Cutting Edge Andrus Boudreaux Complete Title
Meet the Speakers.
James Dwiggins
Christie House Theaux
Candace Blue
Jean-Paul Coussan
Jana Hickey
Sara Zuschlag
James Dwiggins
Co-CEO
NextHome, Inc & Rayse, Inc.
James Dwiggins is the Co-CEO of NextHome, Inc, and Rayse, Inc. He’s third generation in real estate—his grandmother and grandfather, father and mother all in the business. He’s been in real estate franchising since 2006, originally joining Realty World Northern California & Nevada as director of technology and strategy, where he was promoted to vice president five years later. In May 2014, he purchased Realty World Northern California & Nevada, and cofounded NextHome, Inc. - an independent national real estate franchise that now has over 600 locations. NextHome has been named the number one real estate franchise (and number one across industries) in owner satisfaction by Franchise Business Review.
Prior to joining Realty World, James cofounded VREO, Inc. developer of groundbreaking enterprise-level internet applications for agents and brokers. VREO pioneered biometric signature software for paperless transactions and garnered numerous industry accolades, including the coveted Inman Innovator Award for its breakthrough technologies. Previously, James cofounded USA Virtual Tours, which he helped to grow nationally until its acquisition in 2001.
James is a highly regarded national speaker and is a frequent media expert on real estate and other cross-industry franchise and technology advancements. He has received multiple awards, including as a “futurist” and “trailblazer” by RISMedia, and is noted as one of the top 50 real estate executives in the country by the Swanepoel Power 200 list.
Christie Theaux launched her real estate career in 2010 with Keller Williams, where she quickly rose through the ranks becoming a mentor and productivity coach while leading a successful team and developing a strong niche in new construction. Driven by a passion for both building and selling homes, she earned her residential contractor’s license in 2014 and her Broker’s license in 2017. The following year, she opened —NextHome Cutting Edge Realty.
Today, Christie leads a powerhouse office of over 50 agents. Under her leadership, the brokerage has consistently ranked in the Top offices nationwide within the NextHome franchise. Receiving the Diamond Pinnacle Office award in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Her impact on the industry goes far beyond her office walls. Christie served as President of the Realtor Association of Acadiana (RAA) and currently sits as Outgoing President of RAA and Treasurer of ROAM MLS. She is deeply committed to education and excellence, holding numerous designations including ABR, SRS, RENE, PSA, CLHMS, and is a Certified ABR Instructor. She also serves as a NextHome Academy Coach and real estate instructor, mentoring the next generation of top agents.
In addition to her leadership and coaching roles, Christie is an accomplished public speaker and keynote presenter, known for delivering impactful, inspiring talks that resonate with real estate professionals at all levels. Driven, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to elevating the industry, Christie continues to make a lasting impact on the real estate community both locally and nationally.
Christie is known for her leadership, integrity, and relentless commitment to raising the standard of professionalism in real estate.
Candace Blue is walking in purpose — and building legacy along the way.
A devoted mother, mentor, and CEO of NextHome Luxury Premier, Candace leads with faith at the center of everything she does. With over a decade of experience in Houston’s luxury real estate market, she blends sharp business acumen with a deep calling to serve others—whether it’s through real estate, coaching, or community outreach.
As co-owner of NextHome Luxury Premier and the former Team Leader of Houston Luxury Living, Candace brings a wealth of industry expertise and leadership to her team. She is passionate about helping agents succeed and is deeply committed to providing the tools, training, and support they need to achieve their goals, grow their production, and close more deals.
Recognizing her gift for mentorship, Candace naturally transitioned into coaching—guiding countless agents to elevate their businesses with confidence and clarity. Her direct yet supportive style, combined with her strong negotiation skills and creative approach, helps agents develop the mindset and mastery needed to thrive in a competitive market.
Candace’s influence extends beyond her brokerage. As the author of 12 Months to Mastery, she empowers realtors and entrepreneurs to pursue excellence not just in business, but in character. Her story is one of perseverance, grace, and unwavering belief in God’s plan—to use her gifts to bless and uplift others.
Since joining NextHome, Candace has consistently ranked among the best in the business. She has earned the President’s Circle award both as an independent agent and as the leader of The Luxury Living Team, which exceeded $30 million in sales volume. Under her leadership, NextHome Luxury Premier has achieved top-tier recognition including the Pinnacle Office and Premier Team Awards.
Her professional accolades include:
NextHome Pinnacle Office Award
NextHome President’s Circle
NextHome Premier Team Award
HBREA Top 20
Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs of Texas
Top 30 Influential Women of Houston (2022)
Ranked among America’s Best Realtors (Top 1.5%)
Young Millionaire Series Speaker Service Award
Houston Lawyer Association Mission Ally Award
She also holds multiple designations, including:
Accredited Luxury Home Specialist
Seller Representative Specialist
Accredited Buyer Representative
With an 18-year background in Human Resources, Candace’s coaching approach is uniquely shaped by her experience in talent development, making her an impactful guide for agents at every stage of their careers.
Candace currently serves on:
HAR Fort Bend Political Affairs Advisory Leadership
HAR Governmental Affairs and Advocacy
Major Investor, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee
Outside of real estate, Candace is committed to causes close to her heart, including domestic abuse recovery, autism awareness, premature birth support, and youth leadership development. Her journey is rooted in service, strength, and spiritual alignment—and her impact continues to multiply.
Jean-Paul Coussan is a partner at the law firm and title company of Andrus, Boudreaux, Landry & Coussan APLC, and has been practicing business and real estate law for over 10 years. In 2015, Coussan was elected to serve a four year term in the Louisiana House of Representatives for District 45 in Lafayette, Louisiana. He currently is the Louisiana Public Service Commissioner District 2.
Jean-Paul earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Louisiana State University, and was awarded a Juris Doctorate and Bachelor of Civil Law from the LSU Law Center.
Jean-Paul is a member of the Louisiana and Lafayette Bar Associations, the REALTOR® Association of Acadiana, Acadiana Mortgage Lenders Association, the Louisiana Land Title Association, and the Louisiana Association of Independent Land Title Agents. He has also served as a Cajundome Commissioner, an executive board Member of the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, and in various other civic roles in and around Acadiana.
As a legislator, Coussan serves on the Commerce Committee, Natural Resources Committee and the Judiciary Committee.
Jean-Paul is a licensed title insurance producer and is an agent for First American Title Insurance Company, Fidelity National Title Company and Stewart Title Guaranty Company. He was recognized by his peers as a Top Lawyer in Acadiana for 2017 in the areas of Real Estate Law and Trusts and Estates.
Super Lawyers Rising Star 2015, 2016
Acadiana Top Lawyers 2014 and 2017
Top 20 under 40 Acadiana Leadership Awards 2013
Originally from Alexandria, Louisiana, Jana Hickey began her real estate journey in 2010 with Keller Williams. Her passion for the industry quickly grew, leading her to co-found The CJ Group alongside her mother—an accomplishment she holds close to her heart. Known for her vibrant personality and entrepreneurial spirit, Jana also built a successful house-flipping business, showcasing her keen eye for design and value.
Today, she is a top-producing team leader at eXp Realty, where she has expanded The CJ Group in partnership with a new business associate. Together, they lead a dynamic team of 17 agents. Under her leadership, The CJ Group has consistently ranked as the top team in both volume and units across eXp Louisiana.
Jana is more than just a real estate leader—she’s also a dedicated coach and mentor, empowering agents to reach new heights in their careers. Full of life, energy, and an unshakable commitment to excellence, she continues to make a powerful impact in Louisiana’s real estate market and beyond.
Sara Zuschlag is a partner at Andrus, Boudreaux, Landry & Coussan, primarily focusing her practice on residential and commercial real estate transactions. In addition, she assist clients with business and estate planning needs such as business entity formations, lease agreements, drafting of wills, powers of attorney, and succession pleadings.
Mrs. Zuschlag received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Northwestern State University in 2004. Thereafter, she attended Southern University Law Center earning her Juris Doctorate in 2009. Settling in Lafayette, Sara clerked for the Honorable Judge Donald W. Hebert in St. Landry Parish, subsequently practicing in civil defense in one of the area’s largest, most prestigious law firms.
Mrs. Zuschlag is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Lafayette Bar Association, Lafayette Young Lawyers Association, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, Board Member for Miles Perret Cancer Services, REALTORS® Association of Acadiana, Acadiana Homebuilders’ Association, Professional Women in Building, Acadiana Mortgage Lenders’ Association, Leadership Lafayette Class XXVII, the 705, and Women’s Leadership Council of United Way of Acadiana.
Sara was named the 2016 Affiliate of the Year by the Realtor Association of Acadiana.
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James Dwiggins
Co-CEO NextHome, Inc & Rayse Inc
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Christie House Theaux
Broker/Owner/Speaker/Coach
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Candace Blue
Broker/Owner/Author/Coach
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Karl Holland
SALES MANAGER
We look forward to seeing you in August Come learn with us in Lafayette Louisiana
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Day 1 ONLY
August 27th
12:30 to 4:30.
Here from Top producing Teams, Real Estate Investors, Office Managers, Admins and Transaction Coordinators. Breakout sessions for Brokers, Team Leaders, TC’s and Office Managers. Learn about new technology, systems and AI platforms to help stream line your business.
$79.00 (Early Bird Special Pricing)
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Day 2 ONLY
August 28th
8:30 to 4:30
Hear from one of the countries top Industry Leader speakers and Real Estate Franchise Owners, learn from one of the top Luxury agents in Houston and author of 12 Months to Mastery. Home affordability, insurance challenges, new construction developments, Buyer/Seller consults and more….
$129.00 (Early Bird Special Pricing)
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Full 2 Day Summit
August 27th and 28th
Take hold of your business. Invest in your own knowledge and growth. Learn how to reach true success not only in your business but in life. We look forward to meeting you and building a better Real Estate Industry together.
Humans Over Houses
$169.00 (Early Bird Pricing)
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2 Day Ticket PLUS be a VIP
Early access and select seating.
A gift bad with complimentary speakers books, swag from sponsors and more…
Come join us for dinner and drinks. Meet the speakers. Ask one on one questions, get to know them better and collaborate with top agents from all over the Gulf Coast and beyond.
Night 1 Dinner included (pre-selected Meal) Drinks included (some restrictions may apply)
Day 2 - Private area during the event to mingle with speakers and other VIP attendees, snacks, drinks, take a break make a call.
$289.00 (Tickets are Limited)
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10 Ticket Package
Take hold of your business. Invest in your own knowledge and growth. Learn how to reach true success not only in your business but in life. We look forward to meeting you and building a better Real Estate Industry together.
Humans Over Houses
(10 tickets for $100.00 each - early bird special)
Contact Us
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