In this engaging conversation, Brian Green interviews brothers Marcus and Ryan Smoot, who own and operate Watchman Properties and Man Cave Storage. A Top 100 storage facility owner in the US. They share their journey into the industry, starting during the Great Recession, and discuss the challenges and opportunities they faced. The Smoots emphasize the importance of partnership, shared values, and customer service in their business model. They also touch on the significance of continuous learning and the foundational role of faith and family in their lives and work.

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

00:56 Early Experiences in Storage Management

06:34 Navigating the Great Recession

09:42 Building Confidence and Taking Risks

12:18 Raising Capital and Building Trust

20:42 Overcoming Burnout and Challenges

22:45 Maintaining Focus Amid Opportunities

26:01 The Grind: Hard Work and Travel in Business

28:07 Building Strong Partnerships: Family and Business

30:21 Shared Values: The Foundation of Success

33:38 Training and Motivating Teams for Success

36:5 Leadership Lessons from Experience

42:34 Faith and Family: The Core of Motivation

46:24 Connecting with the Community and Future Goals

In this episode, Brian Green and Henry Metcalf interview David Decker, a seasoned professional in the self-storage industry. David shares his journey from being mentored early in his career to becoming a successful leader and angel investor. He emphasizes the importance of humility, curiosity, and hard work, and discusses how he instills these values in his children. David also reflects on the lessons learned from his career, the significance of cultural exposure through family moves, and the impact of investing in people and ideas. He concludes with thoughts on legacy and the importance of making a positive impact on others.

Takeaways

• David's journey highlights the importance of mentorship in career development.
• Humility and curiosity are essential traits for success.
• Investing in people and ideas can lead to mutual benefits.
• Cultural exposure through family moves can shape perspectives.
• Learning from all levels of employees is crucial for growth.
• Instilling a strong work ethic in children is a priority for David.
• Taking risks and being open to new experiences is vital for personal growth.
• The importance of accountability in business and investments.
• Trusting oneself and being vocal about aspirations can attract opportunities.
• Legacy is about the impact one has on others and the community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Decker

01:03 The Importance of Mentorship

04:19 Lessons from Early Career Experiences

05:55 Journey into Self-Storage Industry

09:08 Values that Drive Career Success

13:25 Instilling Work Ethic in Children

16:21 Navigating Family Moves and Cultural Exposure

19:36 Learning from All Levels of Employees

22:49 Insights on Angel Investing

26:30 Evaluating Business Ideas and People

29:01 The Importance of Accountability

31:38 Advice to Young Entrepreneurs

34:44 Legacy and Impact on Others

Josh Green, a seasoned real estate professional with nearly 20 years of experience. Josh shares his journey from property management to multifamily appraisal and consulting, and ultimately to real estate development. He discusses the importance of education, mentorship, and gaining practical experience in the industry. Josh expresses his passion for townhomes and multifamily properties, highlighting their demand and the flexibility they offer in development. The conversation also touches on the role of family in balancing work and personal life, the significance of networking, and the value of helping others in the real estate community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:06 Navigating Real Estate Education

09:50 The Multifamily Market and Townhome Development

15:00 Market Analysis and Research Insights

19:55 The Importance of Patience and Career Evolution

29:23 Reevaluating Career Fulfillment

30:45 Reflecting on Achievements and Growth

31:59 Building Community Through Events

35:19 Balancing Family and Professional Life

43:17 The Importance of Mentorship

47:44 Differentiating in the Real Estate Market