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About Barbara
Barbara Goldman Garcia, affectionately known as Barb or Gigi Garcia, is thrilled to be the trusted right-hand woman to Kelly Shaw (RB-21516), a role she regards with great honor and privilege. The duo's journey began in 2004 when they met while volunteering for Soroptimist of Kona, quickly forming a strong friendship. Kelly, a staunch advocate for women in business, was an instrumental supporter of Barbara’s magazine, Ke Ola, from its inception. Over the years, their bond has deepened, anchored by shared values and interests. A year after Barbara retired from the magazine, Kelly invited her to join her team and assist with marketing—a perfect part-time endeavor for Barbara's retirement. Recognizing Barbara's potential, Kelly encouraged her to obtain a real estate license, which she proudly achieved in early 2025.
Barbara's journey into real estate, although later in life, is enriched by decades of peripheral industry experience through her professional marketing services. Her unique perspective is also shaped by her personal history, having moved 22 times in her first 20 years, living in nearly every district of Hawaii Island.
Her real estate affiliation first began when Barbara had a print marketing business in Southern California. By the late 1980s, she had become the preferred print production manager for Re/Max of California and Hawaii's corporate office. Her role allowed her to engage with many Real Estate admins at management retreats, and Realtors at conferences, fueling her industry knowledge and connections. She also published the Re/Max C&H magazine, which shared agent and office news.
In 2003, Barbara relocated to Kona. While working for a chiropractor, she connected with numerous Realtors and mortgage professionals who were patients. This experience paved the way for lasting relationships within the Kona real estate community. Subsequently, her work in advertising and marketing at local newspapers further integrated her into the industry as an affiliate sponsor of West Hawaii Association of Realtors (WHAR), where she regularly participated in caravans and conferences. In 2008, Barbara launched Ke Ola Magazine, reinforcing her affiliation with WHAR and Hawaii Island Realtors (HIR), while fostering her enduring love for Realtors.
Barbara's life journey has seen her living and/or working all around Hawaii Island, ultimately building a small home in Waiakahi’ula (Hawaiian Shores), Pahoa, in 2023. The 22 moves between 2003 and 2023 provided her with a comprehensive appreciation of the island's diverse locales, which is extremely beneficial as a Realtor. She hopes to introduce more people to the enchanting Waiakahi’ula area, especially those who believe living in Hawaii is beyond their reach.