Meet Our "Feet on the Ground Sanibel Spokesperson"

Hello! My name is Yvette and I am a dedicated dog mama, beach-lover extraordinaire, retired US Navy Veteran, and travel-loving triathlete. My partner Carrie and I actually met at a triathlon training group and she introduced me to Sanibel years ago. After just one visit we knew one day we’d make Sanibel our home. In 2019, we did!

Like many of you, we stopped dreaming of “someday” and decided to move to Sanibel Island to enjoy the year-round warm weather (no snow!), unique wildlife, and the laid-back beach lifestyle. What I didn’t realize we would gain is a small-town community of amazing people from many walks of life, and now, the opportunity to help others make Sanibel their home!

Talking about Sanibel is one of my favorite things to do! At McCallion & McCallion, I get the opportunity to meet other island residents and welcome new home-buyers to the island when assisting open houses, home inspections, home showings, and other important parts of the real estate transaction.

With a BA in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University, an MBA from Webster University, and 29 years in the US Navy, I’ve been blessed with some amazing experiences such as delivering world-class healthcare in the field, on forward-deployed ships and at shore-based hospitals here in the US.

Cycling and triathlon races have fulfilled my love for travel. We enjoy camping and competing in amazing locations throughout the US. Fun facts: I am a three-time Ironman finisher, Boston Marathon qualifier and finisher, and also a Navy Recruit Division Commander (drill instructor), which has been one of the most rewarding experiences to date.

Not all biking is competitive! In fact, I thoroughly enjoy my tiki dog cruiser that I peddle to the sand almost every day to enjoy the beach. I love kayaking, hiking, and exploring Ding Darling. At the end of the day, I enjoy a glass of wine while sitting outside for dinner. It doesn't get much better than living the retired life on Sanibel Island!