In this episode, Paul Smith shares his extensive journey in the commercial real estate sector, reflecting on his career evolution from Dallas to Boston, and eventually to his current role at Velocis. He discusses his upbringing as one of seven children in a New York Irish Catholic family, his educational path from Harvard to business school at UT Austin, and his various roles at Republic Bank, FS Realty Partners, Invesco, Crescent, and his current entrepreneurial venture at Velocis. Smith also touches on the dynamics of the real estate market in different cities, the transition from office to industrial real estate, and the importance of Dallas's collegial business environment. Additionally, he highlights significant influences and mentors in his life, his passion for fundraising, and his long-standing commitment to community and charity, specifically his involvement with Cistercian Preparatory School.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Commercial Real Estate

01:11 Paul Smith's Upbringing and Education

02:47 Early Career and Transition to Real Estate

05:43 Private Equity and Real Estate Ventures

10:43 Challenges and Successes in Real Estate

16:29 Transition to Industrial Real Estate

22:16 The Importance of Location in Real Estate

22:31 Success Story: Temple, Texas Deal

23:57 Industrial Space Growth in Texas

25:10 Future Investment Plans

25:43 Passion for Fundraising

28:00 Commercial Real Estate Insights

29:23 Influential Figures and Career Reflections

30:55 Family Background and Early Influences

33:43 Quickfire Questions: Personal Insights

40:00 Charity and Community Involvement

43:07 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Check Out Paul on LinedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-smith-721b4725/

Check out Velocis Here:

https://velocis.com/

Check out Great State Hat here!

greatstatehat.com

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