The Land Development Podcast with Ryan Glick

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick is joined by Tim Portzen, Vice President of Diligent Development. Tim shares his journey in the real estate and land development industry. Starting from his early days pouring concrete in Dubuque, under the mentorship of his uncle, to his strategic move into the financial side of real estate. With a dual major in real estate and finance from the University of Northern Iowa, Tim carved a path that led him through commercial real estate lending in the Twin Cities, eventually guiding him back to Iowa where he joined Hubbell Realty before making a move to join Diligent Development.Throughout the conversation, Tim offers insights into the nuances of land development, highlighting the importance of a solid understanding of the construction process, the important role of education in advancing one’s career, and the unique challenges and rewards of working in both large corporations and small, entrepreneurial environments. His transition from Hubbell Realty to the more intimate setting of Diligent Development underscores a desire to play a significant part in a smaller team, where he can have a direct hand in transforming raw land into thriving communities.Listeners will also gain an understanding of the significance of community and reputation in the land development business, as Tim discusses the strategic focus of Diligent Development in Warren County, Iowa, and their efforts to maintain a strong, positive presence within the local community. This episode also touches on the broader aspects of the industry, including the anticipation and planning around market trends, the impact of national economic indicators on local development projects, and the value of networking events like the Builder and Developer Luncheon to build connections and share insights within the industry.Finally, Ryan and Tim dive into the entrepreneurial side of land development, discussing the balance between wearing multiple hats in a small company and the specialized roles found in larger organizations. They conclude with a nod to the importance of maintaining a robust network, the power of a strong brand, and the important role of personal and professional integrity in the success of land development projects.Guest Details: Name: Tim PortzenRole: Vice PresidentCompany: Diligent DevelopmentLinks: Diligent Website: https://diligentdevelopment.com/ 2024 Builder and Developer Luncheon Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-builder-developer-luncheon-tickets-776369320537 Tim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-portzen-83a2b8a6/ Tim's Email: tim@diligentdevelopment.comThe show notes page for this episode can be found at: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/embracing-versatility-in-land-development.

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode of the Land Development Podcast, Derek Temple from Temple Real Estate Services joins the show. Derek shares his career journey with us, detailing the shift from various post-college jobs to eventually finding his place in the real estate industry. He talks about the different roles he's had and how they've contributed to his current expertise in land development, emphasizing the practical and hands-on nature of his work.Derek opens up about working with his brother, discussing both the challenges and benefits of their partnership. He gives listeners an insider look into his current work, focusing on the practical aspects of his company's projects, from small builds to larger developments, and shares his perspective on the real estate market's direction.In concluding the episode, Derek reflects on the practical lessons learned throughout his career, highlighting the importance of patience and adaptability in the real estate industry. He talks about the value of gathering diverse opinions and how they've influenced his business decisions.Guest Details: Name: Derek TempleRole: PartnerCompany: Temple Real Estate ServicesLinks: Temple RES Website: https://www.ag-iowa.com/ Derek’s Phone: 515-601-5989Derek’s Email: derek@templeres.comThe show notes page for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/the-importance-of-patience-in-land-development

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode, host Ryan Glick sits down with Sonny Hall to talk about the remarkable growth of Absolute Group. Starting with their humble beginnings in concrete foundation work, they've expanded into various construction areas, transforming the company into a diverse enterprise.Sonny opens up about the significant decision to adopt an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This move wasn't just a strategic exit for the founders; it was a step that brought the employees closer to the heart of the company, creating a strong, invested workforce and a unique company culture.The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of managing a large, diverse team in the fast-paced world of construction. Sonny shares his insights on dealing with complex business environments, from handling regulations to understanding the needs of his employees. He reflects on how his role has evolved from an entrepreneur to a leader of a substantial organization.Lastly, Sonny talks about venturing into land development, sharing the hurdles and opportunities this has brought. The episode offers a real-world look into the resilience and innovative thinking required in the land development and construction sectors.Guest Details: Name: Sonny HallRole: CEO & ChairmanCompany: Absolute GroupLinks: Absolute Group Website: https://www.ag-iowa.com/ Sonny’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnyhall/ Show notes for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/sharing-the-success-of-construction-growth-through-an-esop

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.Dive into the story of Terry Lutz, who started at McClure Engineering in 1978 and worked his way up to Chairman. In this episode, Terry walks us through his early days as a graduate from Iowa State, leading to his influential role in the engineering world.Hear about the critical moments in Terry's career, like when he became a part-owner of McClure and how he helped the company grow from a small team to a large, successful firm. Terry discusses how focusing on both the community and business has been key to McClure's success.Terry reflects on how the engineering industry has changed, especially with the increasing demand for civil engineering. He shares his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities that come with company mergers and gives us a peek into how he balances work with personal interests and family.To wrap up, Terry talks about what the future might hold for land development and gives advice to those starting in the field. He emphasizes that success in engineering isn't just about growing a business, but also about making a real difference in communities. Guest Details: Name: Terry LutzRole: ChairmanCompany: McClure Engineering CompanyLinks: McClure Website: https://mcclurevision.com/ ATI Group Website: https://atirealty.com/ Terry’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-lutz-4a829510/The show notes pages for this episode can be found at: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/master-planning-and-revitalizing-an-old-retail-mall

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode, Ryan welcomes Kalen Ludwig, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Diligent Development, to discuss her path in the real estate world. Kalen opens up about her early influences, tracing her interest in real estate back to her grandparents' house-flipping ventures and property management. Her academic journey at the University of Northern Iowa, where she majored in business marketing and minored in real estate, further fueled her passion.Kalen talks about her career trajectory, highlighting her long-standing association with People's Company and her diverse roles in home building and land development. She dives into her involvement with Diligent Development, where she manages residential lot marketing and collaborates on various multifamily land projects. Kalen also discusses her partnership in Groundbreaker Homes, emphasizing her multifaceted role in the industry.A significant focus of the conversation is on the innovative Middlebrook Agrihood project in Cumming, Iowa. Kalen provides a detailed overview of this 900-acre master-planned community, which uniquely integrates residential living with agricultural elements, green spaces, and a focus on community. The discussion covers the planning and execution, highlighting its distinctive features like communal gardens and walkability.Ryan and Kalen also touch upon the importance of online presence and branding in the real estate industry. Kalen shares her strategies and experiences in utilizing social media and other digital platforms to enhance brand visibility. The episode concludes with insights into the future of real estate development and community building, as exemplified by the Middlebrook project.Guest Details: Name: Kalen LudwigRole: Director of Sales and MarketingCompany: Diligent DevelopmentLinks: Middlebrook Website: https://middlebrookfarm.com/Middlebrook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middlebrookagrihood/Middlebrook Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiddlebrookAgrihoodKalen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalenludwig/Kalen’s Email: kalen@peoplescompany.comThe show notes for this episode can be found at: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/planning-and-developing-a-900-acre-agrihood

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode of the Land Development podcast, Ryan Glick chats with Charles Covey, the man behind LandVest Development. Charles talks about his early days in construction, where he learned the basics of building and developed a strong work ethic. This foundation led him into the dynamic field of land development, where he's now making his mark.Charles shares his hands-on experiences, from working on framing crews to stepping into the world of commercial construction and eventually finding his niche in land development. He talks about the challenges and excitement of moving into new projects, always looking for that next step up in his career. His story isn't just about moving up the ladder; it's about a genuine love for construction and making a lasting impact on the land.We also dive into the current trends in real estate, especially Charles' involvement in build-to-rent projects. He gives us his take on how the market is changing and what he thinks the future holds for real estate and land development. Charles' practical approach and insights are valuable for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of real estate development.This episode offers a real look into the life of a land developer, from the early days of hands-on construction work to making big decisions in the world of real estate. Charles Covey's journey is a reminder of how a strong foundation and a passion for your work can lead to a fulfilling career in any industry.Guest Details: Name: Charles CoveyRole: FounderCompany: LandVest DevelopmentLinks: LandVest Website: https://landvestdev.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-covey/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlescovey/ The show notes page for this episode can be found here: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/constructing-a-path-to-land-development

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode of the Land Development podcast, Ryan Glick sits down with Steve Bruere, the President of Peoples Company. We get a real-world look into how this company grew from its humble beginnings as a small farm management department to a major national force in real estate, with a presence in 30 states.Steve walks us through his personal journey at Peoples Company, touching on the major changes in the industry over the years. He shares stories about the shift from traditional, hands-on property evaluation to the modern era where technology like drones and online resources play a crucial role. It's a firsthand account of adapting and thriving in a rapidly evolving industry.The discussion also dives into the strategic growth of Peoples Company. Steve explains how they identified and entered key markets across the U.S., and how his own passion for land and travel influenced both his career and the company's direction.Beyond just a company's growth story, this episode provides a deeper dive into the real estate industry. We explore trends in land investment, the nuances of agricultural diversity in the U.S., and what it really takes to innovate in this space. Steve's insights offer a practical perspective for anyone interested in real estate, land management, or just looking for a good story about business growth and adaptation.We also dig into the Land Investment Expo, an innovative event started by Steve and Peoples Company back in 2008. This annual expo has grown into a major industry event, attracting speakers and attendees from across the country and even internationally. Steve discusses how the expo started as a small gathering and evolved into an international event for thought leadership and networking in the agricultural and real estate sectors. The event showcases a blend of high-profile keynote speakers and in-depth breakout sessions, cementing its place as a go-to-event in the world of land investment and management.So, whether you're in the industry or just curious about the world of real estate and land development, tune in for this engaging conversation with Steve Bruere. It's not just about business—it's about understanding the land we live on and how it's managed and valued.Guest Details: Name: Steve BruereRole: PresidentCompany: Peoples CompanyLinks:Website: https://peoplescompany.com/Land Expo: https://expo.peoplescompany.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebruere/The show notes page for this episode can be found here: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/navigating-the-evolution-of-land-management

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode, Ryan chats with Joe Mitchell, a key figure in Iowa’s real estate scene and head of the Iowa Real Estate Developers Association. Joe shares his story about moving from a career in politics to getting started in real estate development. The conversation covers his first-hand experiences in the industry, the challenges he's faced, and how he started the Iowa Real Estate Developers Association.You’ll hear Joe’s take on the real estate development world, from managing big projects to dealing with state politics. You’ll get a clear picture of what it takes to succeed in real estate and the importance of having a voice in the industry. This episode is great for anyone interested in real estate, development strategies, and the stories of people who are changing the industry.Guest Details: Name: Joe MitchellRole: President and Chairman Company: Iowa Real Estate Developers AssociationLinks:Website: https://iowarda.com/ Email: josephmitchell.ia@gmail.com  The show notes page for this episode can be found here: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/from-state-house-to-real-estate-developers-association

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick invites Justin and Dani Frampton from Frampton Homes to share their journey in the homebuilding and land development industries. The Frampton’s open up about the early days of building custom and spec homes, their transition into land development, and their experiences with various projects, including a significant development in Grimes.The conversation dives into the challenges and rewards of running a family business, particularly working as a married couple. They discuss balancing work and family life, the decision-making process in business, and their approach to involving their children in the day-to-day.Listeners will gain insights into the nuances of land development, from navigating unexpected challenges with regulatory bodies to the importance of mentorship in the industry. The Framptons' story is a testament to the learning curve and resilience required in land development and homebuilding.This episode not only provides a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of Frampton Homes but also offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in or currently working in land development and homebuilding. Tune in to hear how Justin and Dani Frampton have built their business and their approach to growing in the industry.Guest Details: Name: Justin & Dani FramptonRole: Justin (President), Dani (Operations)Company: Frampton HomesLinks:Website: https://www.framptonhomes.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/framptonhomes/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Framptonhomes The show notes page for this episode can be found here: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/navigating-developments-and-relationships

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.This episode of the Land Development Podcast features a conversation with Dan Knoup, Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines. Host Ryan Glick dives into Dan's unique career path, starting with his service in the Navy and evolving into a key figure in homebuilding. Dan discusses his varied roles in construction, his perspective on career development, and his commitment to alternative educational paths.Listeners will learn about the challenges and dynamics of the homebuilding and land development industries, including regulatory impacts, networking importance, and the Home Builders Association's role in advocacy and member support. Dan highlights his involvement with the "Build My Future" event and the value of introducing trades to young people. This episode offers insights into the multifaceted nature of the homebuilding and land development sectors and showcases the varied routes one can take to achieve professional success.Guest Details: Name: Dan KnoupRole: Executive OfficerCompany: The Home Builder Association of Greater Des MoinesLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dsmhba/Website: https://www.dsmhba.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dsmhba/ Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroovHome The show notes for this episode can be found here: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/from-the-navy-to-homebuilding