S
haina Goedtke, 33, former teacher turned Realtor at White Spruce Real Estate/Keller Williams, earned a 4 Under 40 honor from the Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire Inc. Born in Sioux Falls, she moved to Santa Rosa, California at age five, spent 15 years there, earned an early‑childhood‑education degree at SDSU, and returned to South Dakota for college. She chose Sioux Falls for its small‑town feel, nearby city amenities, and welcoming community of farmers and friends, and she plans to raise a family here.
Her love of teaching fuels her real‑estate work: she blends creativity into marketing, stands out among a thousand agents, educates clients, and prioritizes clear communication. The highlight is seeing clients’ excitement when they close on their first home, realizing it’s attainable.
The 2020 pandemic pushed her out of teaching. After nights of reflection, she embraced real‑estate as a flexible, self‑employed career with limitless opportunities.
She describes her workplace as positive, driven, and purposeful. A surprising fact: she has an aversion to all animals. She gives back by spotlighting local businesses in content and volunteering at St. Francis House. Her wish for Sioux Falls: a Trader Joe’s.
Awarded on Oct. 28, 2025, Shaina shows how creativity and communication can redefine a career.