My Story
Early Life
From an early age, Justin Smith was fascinated by technology and the limitless possibilities of the internet. At just 9 years old, he got his first computer, a Tandy 1000, and was instantly hooked. While most kids were outside playing, Justin was exploring online bulletin boards, experimenting with early software, and diving into digital communication. His curiosity led him to become the first in his neighborhood to have an internet service provider (mainly so he could get real time baseball scores), giving him access to an online world that few even knew existed.
Even as he spent time on the baseball field, his passion for tech never wavered. By age 13, he had already launched his first online newsletter, an early glimpse into his future in content marketing and audience building. A few years later, he became one of the founding members of ProWrestling.com, an early online hub for pro wrestling fans. This wasn’t just a side project, it was a testament to his ability to create digital communities and build platforms that engaged audiences. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his future in software, marketing, and entrepreneurship, setting the stage for a career built on innovation and digital growth.
Career
Justin Smith began his career in sales and marketing for a major beverage company, where he spent three years traveling across the West Coast, managing brand positioning, market expansion and growth, and high-level negotiations. Working in a highly competitive industry, he developed a sharp understanding of consumer behavior, strategic partnerships, and revenue growth strategies. This experience laid the foundation for his expertise in marketing, lead generation, and business development, skills that would later become central to his entrepreneurial journey.
In 2017, Justin earned his real estate license and quickly found a niche specializing in TV production facilities, working with major industry players like CBS. This focus gave him deep insight into commercial real estate transactions, high-value negotiations, and the complexities of specialized properties. As he built his business, he noticed a widespread issue: most real estate agents struggled with lead generation and relied on outdated methods that no longer worked.
This led to the creation of Tech Driven Agent, a brand that combines software, training, and community to help real estate professionals generate leads, automate marketing, and grow their businesses efficiently. Through Tech Driven Agent, Justin has empowered countless agents to embrace modern digital marketing strategies and move beyond traditional, ineffective lead generation tactics. His work continues to bridge the gap between technology and real estate, ensuring that agents have the tools and strategies they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Giving Back
Los Angeles is facing a severe housing crisis, with an estimated 270,000-unit shortage in affordable housing, leaving thousands without stable shelter. More than 75,000 people experience homelessness in LA County on any given night, and over 50% of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Instead of just talking about the problem, Justin Smith is committed to taking action.
With his background in real estate, Justin has worked with the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation (WHCHC), a nonprofit dedicated to building safe, affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors, and those who have experienced homelessness. Since 1986, WHCHC has developed over 800 units, with 520 more currently in progress across Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and Palm Springs. These projects provide long-term housing stability and essential support services to those in need.
Personal Life
Outside of his work in real estate marketing, Justin Smith is a passionate Los Angeles Dodgers fan who rarely misses a game. As lifelong tech enthusiast, he’s always exploring the latest innovations in digital marketing, audio gear, and photography equipment. When he’s not capturing moments behind the lens or strumming his guitar, you’ll likely find him shooting hoops or spending time with Milo, his 17-year-old pound puppy, who remains the best dog ever.