Michael Brennan discusses the Creation of His Real Estate Empire

In this episode, Michael Brennan shares his inspiring journey from a young boy influenced by his father's entrepreneurial spirit to becoming a key player in the industrial real estate sector. Brennan discusses his early ventures in real estate while working at RR Donnelley, his transition from residential to commercial real estate, and his strategic investments in industrial properties. He highlights his tenure at Scheidler Group and then as CEO of First Industrial Realty Trust, where he played a pivotal role in taking the company public and navigating through economic challenges. Brennan also delves into his passion for education and the significant impact he has made at the Grass Camp Real Estate Center at the University of Wisconsin. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the continuous quest for knowledge.

Timestamps:

00:00 Starting a Career in Real Estate

00:41 First Real Estate Deal

01:21 Lunch with Industry Leaders

03:10 Influence of Upbringing

08:45 Early Jobs and Lessons Learned

15:10 College and Career Beginnings

21:21 Transition to Commercial Real Estate

25:27 Joining Coldwell Banker Commercial

33:18 Becoming a Principal in Real Estate

37:57 Starting in Industrial Real Estate

39:34 Going Public with Merrill Lynch

42:37 Becoming CEO and Expanding the Company

44:56 Lessons from First Industrial

47:39 Differences Between Public and Private REITs

58:45 Involvement with the Grass Camp Real Estate Center

01:06:53 Advice for Young Real Estate Enthusiasts

01:12:30 Favorite Chicago Food and Final Thoughts

Check Out Michael on LinkedIn Here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brennan-a760b7a0/

Check out Brennan Investment Group Here:

https://www.brennanllc.com/

Check out Great State Hat here!

greatstatehat.com

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