

The C-Suite Show
Conrad Madsen
The C-Suite Show is not just another entrepreneurship podcast; It's your gateway into the minds and experiences of today's most influential leaders. Conrad's unique perspective as a business innovator, disruptor, and entrepreneur fuels candid conversations, delving deep into often overlooked topics by mainstream media.Each week we invite you to join us as we chat with some of the most well-known Entrepreneurs, Founders, CEOs, and Executives from America's leading companies. Gain wisdom, motivation, business strategies, and inspiring stories to boost your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "The C-Suite Show" will offer you dynamic trade secrets and insights into how to navigate the dynamic world of business and investing. Tune in and let's embark on this transformative journey together.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 14min
Jeremy Mercer: Inside the Life of the Real Estate Rockstar
Send us a textJeremy Mercer reflects on his early experiences, from his first major real estate deal to his upbringing in Irving, Texas. Highlighting his formative years playing football and his close-knit relationship with his brother, Jeff, Jeremy shares how sports and a disciplined upbringing influenced his work ethic. He delves into his initial ventures in the music industry and property management before transitioning to commercial real estate and brokerage. Jeremy also speaks candidly about overcoming significant financial challenges, emphasizing the importance of persistence. Now, as the co-founder of Matador Capital, Jeremy discusses his strategy, the impact of real estate partnerships, and his venture into credit fund management. The conversation wraps up with Jeremy's personal anecdotes, favorite leisure spots, and his involvement in charitable endeavors.Timestamps:00:00 The First Big Deal01:28 Childhood and Upbringing03:06 High School and College Football08:13 Transition to Music and Early Career17:01 Starting in Real Estate38:51 First Syndicated Deal39:40 Transition to Buying Buildings41:49 Founding Matador Capital42:48 Scaling and Expanding44:23 Starting a Credit Fund48:00 Lessons from a Major Setback51:06 Opportunities in the Market55:09 Advice for Young Professionals59:39 The C-Suite ClosersCheck out Jeremy on His Socials Here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-mercer-a3154358/X: https://x.com/jbmatcap?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbmatcap/Check out Jeremy's Podcast, The Industrialist, Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industrialist/id1715732647You can Find Matador Realty Investments Here:https://www.matador.net/Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Apr 16, 2025 • 1h 9min
Brant Bernet Discusses His Career and The Future of Data Centers
Send us a textIn this episode of The C-Suite Show, Conrad interviews Brant Bernet, a veteran in the commercial real estate sector with extensive expertise in the data center market. Brant shares his bold prediction that Texas will become the largest data center market in the world due to its pro-business environment and resource availability. The conversation delves into Brant's upbringing, his career progress from various roles in real estate to his passion for data centers, and significant influences along the way. They discuss the rapid evolution of data center requirements, the importance of power sustainability, and the transformative impact of data center projects in regions like South Dallas. In addition to professional insights, Brant shares personal stories, including his musical family background, notable people in his career, impactful books, favorite musicians, and advice for young professionals. He also touches on his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Salesmanship Club and charitable involvement with the Rise School.Timestamps:00:00 Texas: The Future Data Center Capital00:24 Challenges in the Data Center Industry01:21 Introduction to Brant Bernet02:29 Brant Bernet's Upbringing and Family Background11:50 Early Career and Entry into Real Estate15:17 The Rise of Data Centers15:58 The Formation of Rack House20:50 The Data Center Market Boom28:19 Power Challenges and Solutions32:34 The Future of Power Generation34:12 South Dallas: A New Development Frontier35:55 Future of Infrastructure Development36:34 Wealth Generation and Land Ownership37:24 Hyperscalers and Data Center Evolution37:50 Changing Requirements in Data Centers39:02 Impact of Power Demand on Data Centers42:53 Emerging Data Center Markets45:30 Influential Figures in Real Estate48:58 Advice for Young Professionals51:23 The C-Suite Closers: Quickfire Questions01:04:55 Charity Work and Giving BackFind Brant on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brant-bernet-2104942/Check out Brant's Favorite Charities Here:Rise School of Dallas: https://ymcadallas.org/ashford-rise-school-dallasSalesmanship Club: https://scdallas.org/Find Brant's Favorite Book Here:https://www.amazon.com/Old-Man-Sea-Ernest-Hemingway/dp/0684801221Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
Darren Woodson: NFL Legend Reveals Secrets to Success Off the Field
Send us a textIn this episode, former NFL player Darren Woodson shares his journey from a rough childhood in Phoenix to becoming a legendary Dallas Cowboys player and beyond. Darren opens up about his experience at Arizona State, his rookie years with the Cowboys, and the intense training environment under coaches like Jimmy Johnson. Darren reflects on lessons learned from his mother and the discipline instilled in him through routine and resilience. He also discusses life post-football, including his work with ESPN and his transition into commercial real estate. Additionally, he speaks passionately about his involvement in the C5 Texas mentoring program, which aims to guide disadvantaged youth towards academic and personal success. The conversation touches on the importance of showing up every day, mentorship, his favorite musicians, and how his faith has guided his journey.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Early Career Challenges01:51 Childhood and Family Influences08:42 High School Football Aspirations11:02 College Football Journey21:47 Transition to Professional Football23:37 Life in the NFL35:10 Injury and Surgeries: A Painful Journey36:50 The Final Straw: Realizing the End of a Career39:55 Transition to Real Estate: A New Beginning43:12 Challenges and Lessons in Real Estate54:28 The C-Suite Closers01:03:59 Mentorship and Giving BackFind Darren on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrenwoodson28/?hl=enX: https://x.com/darrenwoodson28?lang=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarrenWoodson28/You can find all of Darren's current projects on his website:https://darrenwoodson.com/Check out C5 Youth Foundation here:https://www.c5texas.org/Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 3min
Behind the Deals: Russ Webb on Real Estate and Resilience
Send us a textIn this episode, Russ Webb shares his journey from growing up in Abilene, Texas, to becoming a prominent figure in the commercial real estate sector in Dallas-Fort Worth. He discusses the importance of effective time management, direct communication, and cold calling in his career. Webb reflects on his experiences at Stream Realty and the founding of Silver Oak Commercial Realty. He highlights his involvement in farm and ranch real estate, challenges in city planning and development, and the importance of the Texas Tech Real Estate Center. Webb also talks about his personal passions, impactful books, favorite music, and his dedication to charitable endeavors like Make A Wish and scholarships for college students.Timestamps:00:00 The Football Mentality: Directness and Time Management01:10 Catching Up with an Old Friend: Russ Webb02:46 Childhood and Family Background03:26 College Days at Texas Tech12:34 Early Career and Mentorship21:47 Starting Silver Oak: The Journey to Entrepreneurship33:51 Challenges in Real Estate Development35:18 Importance of Time Management00:33 Effective Communication in Business38:55 Opportunities in Texas Real Estate42:45 Texas Tech Real Estate Center47:00 The C-Suite ClosersCheck out Silver Oak Commercial Realty Here:https://silveroakcre.com/You can find Russ on LinkedIn Here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-webb-a947b738/Help out Make-a-Wish using the link here:https://wish.org/Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Mar 5, 2025 • 59min
Lt. Col. Allen West: The Journey from The Military to Congress
Send us a textIn this enlightening conversation, Allen West shares his journey from growing up in a historic Atlanta neighborhood during the 60s and 70s to becoming a respected military leader and public servant. West discusses the influence of his parents, his education, and his decision to join the military, ultimately serving 22 years and rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He reflects on key moments and figures that shaped his career, including his impactful decision during his service in Iraq. Post-military, West's journey took him to Congress and now as a leader working to uphold constitutional rights and influence local politics in Texas. He also delves into his passion for supporting veterans and his views on education, leadership, and community involvement.Timestamps:00:00 The American Dream: Stories of Success01:11 Introduction and Casual Conversation03:04 Growing Up in Atlanta: A Historical Perspective04:48 Family Background and Early Influences06:12 The Importance of Education and Role Models10:27 The Decline of Community and Rise of Dependency13:46 The Power of Exposure and Dreaming Big19:16 Gentrification and Changes in Atlanta21:12 The Role of Education in Breaking Cycles22:29 College Life and ROTC Experience25:07 Military Career: Lessons and Mentors28:57 Unexpected Assignment to Kansas29:24 Meeting My Wife at Fort Riley30:06 Soldier Humor and Tough Situations31:32 Career-Ending Decision in Iraq33:57 Transitioning Out of the Military34:54 Jumping at Normandy for D-Day38:08 Political Career and Challenges42:14 Current Endeavors and Reflections51:53 The C-Suite ClosersCheck out Allen's Socials Here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allenbwest/?hl=enX: https://x.com/AllenWest?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllenBWest/You can find Allen's Books Here:https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00IABIERCCheck out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Feb 26, 2025 • 49min
Ed Curtis: A Journey from the Bronx to the Heart of Texas Business
Send us a textThis episode features an engaging discussion with Ed Curtis, CEO of YTexas, exploring the significant migration trends to Texas from states like California, New York, and Illinois. The conversation delves into the economic contrasts between these states and Texas, highlighting Texas's appeal for businesses and individuals due to its favorable economic conditions, low regulation, and pro-business climate. Ed Curtis shares his journey from New York to Texas, his career evolution from banking to leading YTexas, and insightful observations about Texas’s diverse economy and vibrant economic landscape. The episode also touches on the growth and impact of YTexas, the importance of community and philanthropy in Texas, and Ed Curtis’s personal experiences and reflections. The script weaves in various anecdotes, including Curtis’s early love of Texas’s friendly culture and pivotal moments in his career. It underscores Texas’s branding as a land of opportunity and innovation, and the enduring appeal of its collaborative and growth-oriented environment.Timestamps:00:00 The Texas FOMO Phenomenon00:58 A Nostalgic Journey Through Dallas03:30 Ed's New York Roots05:39 The Move to Texas08:35 Banking Career and Entrepreneurial Itch09:40 The Rise of Y Texas12:07 Texas: The New Economic Powerhouse20:12 The Future of Texas22:56 Y Texas Event Highlights25:22 Discussing the Promo Video25:33 Texas Media Coalition and Film Incentives25:52 Highlighting Texas-Based Celebrities27:17 Brent Ryan and Texas Success Stories28:22 Event Networking and Mentorship29:57 Meelis Anton's Texas Journey32:09 Field Goal Kicking Memories36:06 Future of 'Why Texas?'37:58 The C-Suite Closers43:37 Philanthropy and Giving Back46:45 Final Thoughts and FarewellYou can find ED on LinkedIn Here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/edcurtis1/Check out YTexas Here: https://ytexas.com/Check out Ed's Most Impactful Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 14min
Inside Amy Robbins' World of Fashion, Freedom, and Fearless Talk
Send us a textIn this episode, Amy Robbins passionately discusses the critical issues of freedom of speech, censorship, and personal safety. She shares her entrepreneurial journey from a small-town girl with big dreams to the founder of Alexo Athletica, the first concealed carry activewear brand. Amy recounts a terrifying personal experience while jogging that led her to create innovative products for women's safety. She also delves into her media career, including hosting roles, her involvement with Parler, and her experiences on tour with Tucker Carlson. Tune in for inspiring insights on entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and the importance of protecting our constitutional freedoms.Timestamps:00:00 The Threat to Freedom of Speech01:25 Guest Introduction: Amy Robbins02:14 Amy's Early Life and Career Beginnings04:14 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Ventures06:32 College Years and Career Aspirations10:31 Journey into the Firearm Industry19:14 Creating a Concealed Carry Activewear Brand27:30 Launching and Growing the Business38:39 The Cost of Competing with Amazon39:56 Challenges of Overseas Manufacturing41:06 The Rewards and Opportunities of Entrepreneurship41:37 Hanging Out with Tucker Carlson and Other Celebrities42:13 The Importance of Free Speech and Censorship Issues47:39 The Role of Social Media and Big Tech50:38 Parler's Vision and Future Plans57:48 The C-Suite Closers01:07:27 Local Politics and Community Involvement01:12:39 Final Thoughts and FarewellYou can check out Amy's personal website here:https://amy-robbins.com/Find something you love at Alexo Athletica here:https://alexoathletica.com/Check out Amy's Podcast, Not Your Average Gun Girls on Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/notyouraveragegungirls/Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 15min
Bryan Marsh Discusses the Ups and Downs of his Real Estate Journey from Brokerage to Data Centers
Send us a textIn this episode, industry veteran Bryan Marsh shares his journey from the challenging real estate market of the 1980s to becoming a leader in the data center sector. Bryan discusses his early career struggles, his pivotal role in transformative real estate projects, and his insights into the rapidly evolving data center industry. He reflects on how his industrial background and development expertise have shaped his approach to managing large-scale data center campuses. Bryan also touches on the impact of AI and the increasing demand for digital infrastructure. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and Bryan's thoughts on life and business, making it a comprehensive look at a dynamic and ever-changing industry.Timestamps:00:00 The Market Crash of '86: A Young Broker's Struggle01:25 Reconnecting with an Old Friend: Bryan and Conrad02:01 The Rise and Fall of Reef: Industrial Real Estate Giants05:32 From Brokerage to Development: A Career Shift11:23 The Santa Fe Project: A Mixed-Use Development Journey26:14 The Data Center Revelation: A New Frontier38:34 Dallas: A Logistics and Data Hub39:14 Major Data Center Markets in the US40:35 The Rise of Competition in Data Centers42:43 Transition to StratCap and COVID Impact45:18 AI and the Future of Data Centers47:48 Challenges and Innovations in Data Centers01:04:30 Personal Insights and ReflectionsYou can find Bryan on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-marsh-38877411/Here is a link to Bryan's Favorite Book:https://www.amazon.com/Civil-War-Volumes-1-3-Box/dp/0394749138Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 10min
Steve Modory: A Conversation on the Strategic Deals and Changing Industry with the CRE Legend
Send us a textIn this episode, we take an in-depth look at the impressive career and insights of Steve Modory, a veteran in the commercial real estate industry. Steve recounts his early days as a leasing agent, wearing out shoe leather to meet decision-makers, to his current role navigating high-stakes deals and significant portfolio management. He discusses the evolution of the industry, from the advent of technology in property management to the seismic shifts caused by COVID-19. Steve also shares stories from his personal life, including his competitive volleyball days at Stanford, his journey through various real estate sectors, and his thoughtful approach to philanthropy. Join us for a fascinating conversation on the past, present, and future of commercial real estate.Timestamps:00:00 Starting Out in Real Estate: The Early Days01:23 A Casual Conversation: Weather and Dining02:18 Commercial Real Estate Success Stories02:46 From Michigan to Stanford: Steve's Journey05:13 Volleyball and College Life at Stanford09:57 Joining Trammell Crow Ventures11:13 Learning the Ropes: Early Career Experiences12:14 The Trammell Crow Legacy18:17 Champion Partners: The Early Years28:44 Speculative Development and Corporate Clients36:45 Final Office Acquisition and Strategic Moves37:47 Impact of COVID on Office Space38:02 Predicting Tenant Demand and Market Trends41:36 Challenges in Office Space Development45:13 Industrial Development and Market Shifts53:10 Advice for Young Real Estate Professionals01:03:42 The C-Suite ClosersCheck out Steve on LinkedIn Here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-modory-b1b065a/Check out Champion Partners Here:https://championpartners.com/Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!

Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
Tim Siegel's Inspirational Journey from Tennis Courts to Touching Hearts
Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode, Tim Siegel shares his profound journey, from elite college tennis coach to the devoted founder of the Team Luke Hope for Minds Foundation. Siegel discusses his early passion for tennis, his coaching career at Texas Tech, and his life-changing decision to step away from coaching to spend more time with his family. The narrative takes an emotional turn as Tim recounts the tragic accident that left his nine-year-old son Luke with severe brain trauma. Embracing his new role as a primary caregiver, Tim reveals how his son’s struggles and resilience inspired the formation of the Team Luke Hope for Minds Foundation. Highlighting the organization's mission to support families dealing with pediatric brain injuries, Tim shares the seven inspirations from Luke that profoundly shape his speaking engagements and personal philosophy. The conversation also touches upon faith, forgiveness, and the transformative power of community support. Don't miss this compelling story of faith, perseverance, and unwavering love, leaving a lasting impact on all who hear it.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Seven Inspirations from Luke01:25 Relocating to Dallas: A Personal Journey02:00 Early Life and Tennis Beginnings08:37 College Tennis Career at Arkansas13:45 Transition to Coaching: SMU and Texas Tech27:56 Tragic Accident: Luke's Story32:34 Devastating Diagnosis and Initial Struggles33:24 Miraculous Progress and Setbacks33:53 Returning Home and Becoming a Caregiver35:14 Luke's Communication Breakthroughs36:33 Facing COVID and Tragic Loss37:34 Coping with Grief and Finding Forgiveness41:00 Founding Team Luke Hope for Minds42:45 Expanding the Nonprofit's Impact44:15 Annual Conference and Future Plans52:21 Personal Reflections and Inspirations55:38 C Suite Closers and Final MessagesYou Can Check out Team Luke Hope for Minds and find their Socials Here:https://teamlukehopeforminds.org/You can find Tim's Books Here:https://www.amazon.com/Its-Gods-Hands-Tim-Siegel/dp/194978410Xhttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fight-like-luke-tim-siegel/1142552492Check out Great State Hat here! greatstatehat.comHelp support the podcast by subscribing!Watch the full podcasts on The C-Suite Show YouTube!Follow me on Social Media!LinkedInInstagramXInterested in my real estate brokerage firm? Check it out here: Paladin Partners!


