Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of building wealth through commercial real estate, entrepreneurial leaps, and personal growth. Joining me is Meredith Mears, an accomplished Senior Advisor at SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate and co-chair of the SVN National Self Storage Product Council. Meredith brings decades of experience in commercial real estate, specializing in industrial and office assets—and her unique journey from the rural Eastern Shore of Virginia to a trailblazing career in development and brokerage is as inspiring as it is instructive.

In our conversation, Meredith and I trace her path from humble beginnings—growing up with a scarcity mindset in a family of immigrants and Depression survivors—through her education at Salisbury University and formative roles in workforce and economic development. We discuss how she made the courageous leap from public sector “safe” employment to private consulting, development, and eventually managing her own investment portfolio. Meredith shares how real estate can be a powerful long-term vehicle for wealth, why she values owner-occupied properties, and the intricate dynamics of landlord-tenant negotiations.

We also dig into the gender dynamics of commercial real estate, the critical role of mentorship, shifting from scarcity to abundance mentality, and why developing properties that serve and uplift her community is her true definition of “success” as she continues to grow—personally and professionally.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Long-Term Wealth Through Real Estate: Meredith emphasizes that real estate is not a “get rich quick” endeavor but rather a slow, steady path to building family and generational wealth, requiring patience, liquidity, and a focus on long-term holds.
2. The Value of Owner-Occupied Properties: We discuss how owner-occupants place higher value on their spaces, often investing more into the property—making these transactions particularly beneficial for both the buyer and the asset itself.
3. Courage in Career Transitions: Meredith’s leap from secure government work to the uncertainty of private development and brokerage highlights the importance of preparation (financial and emotional), calculated risk-taking, and capitalizing on opportunity.
4. The Power of Mentorship and Networks: Throughout her journey, mentors and professional networks provided Meredith with opportunities, support, and knowledge—demonstrating the necessity of seeking out guidance even (and especially) as you advance in your career.
5. Purpose-Driven Development: Meredith’s vision for “when I grow up” is centered around creating and redeveloping properties that serve community needs—like transforming a dilapidated dentist office into a thriving therapist center—underscoring how wealth-building and positive impact can go hand in hand.

Join us for this energetic and enlightening episode as we explore the jungle of commercial real estate, the importance of mindset shifts, and how courage and community can fuel financial freedom. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone who’s ready to make their own leap into a wealthier, more purpose-filled future!

To learn more about Meredith Mears, visit m3synergies.com or find her advisor profile at svnmiller.com