In this episode of The Matthews Podcast, host Matthew Wallace sits down with Stephen Bittel, chairman and founder of Terranova Corporation, to discuss his extensive career in commercial real estate. With over four decades of experience and a portfolio exceeding a billion dollars, Steven shares his journey from his early days in Miami to founding one of South Florida's premier real estate investment firms. The conversation delves into market cycles, the impacts of significant economic events, and strategies for success in this changing market. Learn about Stephen's incredible path, the growth of Terranova Corporation, and his advice to aspiring professionals. Tune in for an insightful discussion on resilience, opportunity, and leadership in commercial real estate.

00:00 Introduction to The Matthews Podcast

00:46 Meet Stephen Bittel: A Real Estate Icon

01:51 Early Life and Education

02:32 Starting a Career in Real Estate

05:36 Founding Terranova Corporation

08:56 Navigating Market Cycles and Challenges

11:06 Building a Third-Party Management Business

18:30 Shifting Focus to Equity Trades

20:29 Surviving the Great Financial Crisis

22:37 Managing Petroleum Realty During Lehman's Collapse

25:57 Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis

26:19 Opportunities in the 2010s

30:46 The Impact of COVID-19

37:08 Adapting to Market Volatility

42:07 Building a Lasting Legacy

46:40 Advice for the Next Generation