Beth Dilley
Co-Founder, President
Beth was born in Butler Pennsylvania, relocated to New York, and spent several years living in Virginia and Atlanta Georgia prior to moving to Florida for an employment opportunity. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Kennesaw State University has her real estate broker license, and a CAM license, and is a certified facilitator and mediator. Beth has over 20 years of executive management experience working in an array of industries; hospitality, manufacturing, banking, and insurance. Always reporting to the CEO of the companies, Beth obtained the confidence and drive to become an entrepreneur and opened Ascendia Group in 2010. Originally starting as a Real Estate company quickly diversified to a property management company, which manages both vacation and annual rentals. When Beth is not working, she is exercising, loves to cook, travels nationally and internationally, gardens, and enjoys a fine glass of cabernet sauvignon with her husband Andy at the end of the day.
Andy Olwert
Co-Founder
Andy is a graduate of Florida State University with a major in Risk Entrepreneur. He is almost a Florida native since he moved to Florida when he was 5 years of age. After working for major insurance companies, regulators, and commercial agencies, Andy decided to create a company that encompassed three entities, a TPA, a Managed Care Company, and an MGA. Starting with two employees he grew the company to over 300 employees and 40 million in premiums. Andy is a major FSU football fan and enjoys golfing and exploring different wine regions nationally and internationally.
Tristen Szalbirak
Office Manager
Tristen is originally from Fort Myers. She holds a Florida Real Estate License. Tristen is an integral part of the management team, working in both disciplines of Ascendia Group; Ascendia Real Estate and Ascendia Property Management. Tristen is responsible for contracts, bookkeeping, marketing, sales, recruitment, software, and office facilities. She is Ascendia’s “Glue”! Tristen successfully bonds several sides of our organization to function as one unit. Her positive energy combined with her ability to stay calm in challenging situations has earned her respect and is appreciated by the Ascendia Team. When Tristen is not working, she and her husband Brentyn are on the hunt for the perfect craft cocktail.
Nick Esposito
Maintenance Manager
Nick is originally from Boston Massachusetts where he worked in the family business running 10 Italian bakeries. Our clients and investors refer to Nick as “Saint Nick”. He earned the name by providing above-and-beyond customer service. There isn’t anything Nick can’t tackle. He knows when to be hands-on and he knows when to contact one of our talented vendors. Prior to joining Ascendia, Nick owned and operated a successful hardscape business in Texas. When Nick is not working, you will find him on his boat, fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Sarasota Bay.
Yelena Kozachuk
Weekend Warrior
Yelena is originally from the former Soviet Union. Her story of migrating from the Soviet Union to eventually Chicago Illinois is one you will want her to share. Yelena is responsible for guest services on the weekend. She welcomes our guests and inspects properties prior to their arrival. She is a perfectionist! Additionally, Yelena will troubleshoot any maintenance challenges on the weekends. When she is not working, Yelena loves to go shopping, she has the honor of being Ascendia’s best-dressed employee. Yelena values her time with her husband Zack as they discover new and interesting restaurants in Sarasota.
Rick Lyons
Real Estate Agent and Advisor
Meet Rick Lyons, an enthusiastic and dedicated Real Estate Agent specializing in the beautiful markets of Sarasota, Siesta Key and Lakewood Ranch. With a rich background that blends entrepreneurial spirit and hands-on experience in real estate, Rick is uniquely equipped to help clients navigate their property journeys. Rick’s work ethic was instilled at a young age when he began working in his family’s business, which focused on brokering fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the Midwest. By the age of 11, he learned the importance of hard work and the strenght of teamwork, lessons that have guided him throughout his career. With over 30 years of experience owning and operating various B2B brokerage and logistic services, Rick has honed invaluable skills in negotiation, customer service, and market analysis. In 2009 Rick ventured into the real estate market by purchasing his first home in Lakewood Ranch, igniting a passion that would evolve over the years. His keen eye for investment opportunities led him to acquire a rental property on Siesta Key, where he successfully established a thriving vacation rental business. Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Rick is the youngest of 11 siblings. He and his wife Nancy share their lives with four adult sons and a growing family which includes a grandson and another grandchild on the way. The couple recently made Palmer Ranch their primary residence in 2024, while retaining a secondary home in Michigan. When he is not busy assisting clients in finding their dream homes or investment properties, Rick loves embracing a Florida active lifestyle. You can often find him exercising, golfing, or boating in the stunning waters of southwest Florida. With a deep commitment to service and genuine love for the community, Rick Lyons is ready to make your real estate dreams come true.