Building a network of mentors, with Cadre’s Ryan Williams
Feb 13, 2025
auto_awesome
Ryan Williams, Founder of Cadre and a real estate mogul who scaled his tech-driven platform to over a billion dollars, shares his journey from a sports apparel entrepreneur to a real estate innovator. He discusses the critical role of mentorship in his success and how media attention shaped his perspective. Williams also dives into the importance of building a robust network and overcoming ethical challenges in the industry. His unique approach to employee benefits, like 'The Lobatical', highlights the value of team spirit in business.
Ryan Williams emphasizes the importance of leveraging a strong network of mentors to navigate challenges and foster business growth.
Cadre's innovative approach to democratizing real estate investing showcases the potential of technology to create inclusive investment opportunities.
Deep dives
AI-Native CRM for the Future
Atio is introduced as an AI-native customer relationship management (CRM) system specifically designed to meet the dynamic needs of modern businesses. Unlike traditional CRM systems built for past business models, Atio adapts to unique operational requirements and integrates seamlessly with organizational tools like emails and calendars. The platform's standout capability lies in its ability to create AI-powered automations, which streamline complex processes for users. This allows business owners to focus more on growth and strategic initiatives rather than mundane tasks.
Foundation of a Real Estate Entrepreneur
Ryan Williams recalls his formative experiences that influenced his entrepreneurial journey, particularly during the 2008 housing crisis. He and his college peers recognized the opportunity in distressed neighborhoods and took action by purchasing homes, ultimately assisting local residents in reclaiming their American dream. This venture ignited his passion for real estate and laid the groundwork for his future business endeavors. His ability to identify and act on opportunities amidst adversity showcases the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Building Cadre: A Tech-Driven Investment Platform
Ryan founded Cadre, a platform aimed at democratizing real estate investing by providing access to those who couldn't afford large investments. The company leverages technology to facilitate fractional ownership, allowing everyday investors to participate in real estate markets previously dominated by elite investors. Drawing inspiration from his experiences in major financial institutions, Ryan aimed to create a more inclusive investment landscape. This vision transformed from a concept into a thriving platform, underscoring the potential for innovation in traditional industries.
Navigating Challenges and Media Attention
As Cadre grew, it faced unexpected challenges, particularly due to media scrutiny surrounding its early association with Jared Kushner during his political prominence. Ryan navigated these challenges by maintaining transparency and open communication with his team and stakeholders. With the help of trusted mentors, he learned to manage public perception without losing focus on business growth and core values. This experience not only strengthened his leadership but also highlighted the importance of integrity in maintaining a company’s vision amidst external pressures.
Ryan Williams thinks it should be easier to invest in real estate. He founded Cadre in 2014 to address this problem, and scaled it to impressive heights before an acquisition last year that sources say was valued at north of one billion dollars, combined. Williams talks with host Jeff Berman about how he built a powerful network of mentors to support his success, what he learned after being thrust into the spotlight because of one of his investors, and why he decided to exit his business.