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In this episode of Breaking New Ground, I sit down with with Rachel Walters to explore the evolving role of personal branding in commercial real estate—and how authentic visibility is translating into real deal flow.
From newsletters to podcasts to Substack, we unpack how consistency, storytelling, and clarity of message are reshaping how professionals connect with investors, partners, and peers. The conversation moves from strategy to execution—covering lessons learned, common pitfalls, and why credibility and authenticity matter more than production value.
Whether you’re a developer, capital allocator, or marketing lead, this discussion offers a practical roadmap for building a brand that compounds into opportunity.
Key Takeaways
Personal branding in CRE isn’t about fame—it’s about trust and access.
Consistency across platforms builds credibility and recognition.
Authentic storytelling beats overproduced marketing every time.
Newsletters and podcasts can directly generate deal flow.
Substack success depends on clear audience focus and sustained cadence.
Video accelerates trust by showing personality and professionalism.
Authenticity matters—AI can refine your message, but it can’t replace your voice.
Building a brand is a long game; consistency compounds over time.
Chapter Breakdown
00:00 – Why personal branding matters now in CRE
03:32 – How values drive credibility and long-term relationships
08:23 – Turning content into measurable deal flow
10:40 – Clarity through marketing: defining who you serve
15:08 – Moving beyond “influencer culture” to real business outcomes
18:58 – The cost of being invisible in commercial real estate
24:06 – Building an authentic Substack and audience growth
36:23 – The power of video and authentic presence
38:39 – Lessons learned: start small, stay consistent, keep it real
43:43 – Storytelling as the foundation of a meaningful brand
Show Notes & Links
🎧 Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
Guest: Rachel — Marketing Strategist & Branding Advisor
Connect: Rachel on LinkedIn
By John Pugh and Rachel WaltersIn this episode of Breaking New Ground, I sit down with with Rachel Walters to explore the evolving role of personal branding in commercial real estate—and how authentic visibility is translating into real deal flow.
From newsletters to podcasts to Substack, we unpack how consistency, storytelling, and clarity of message are reshaping how professionals connect with investors, partners, and peers. The conversation moves from strategy to execution—covering lessons learned, common pitfalls, and why credibility and authenticity matter more than production value.
Whether you’re a developer, capital allocator, or marketing lead, this discussion offers a practical roadmap for building a brand that compounds into opportunity.
Key Takeaways
Personal branding in CRE isn’t about fame—it’s about trust and access.
Consistency across platforms builds credibility and recognition.
Authentic storytelling beats overproduced marketing every time.
Newsletters and podcasts can directly generate deal flow.
Substack success depends on clear audience focus and sustained cadence.
Video accelerates trust by showing personality and professionalism.
Authenticity matters—AI can refine your message, but it can’t replace your voice.
Building a brand is a long game; consistency compounds over time.
Chapter Breakdown
00:00 – Why personal branding matters now in CRE
03:32 – How values drive credibility and long-term relationships
08:23 – Turning content into measurable deal flow
10:40 – Clarity through marketing: defining who you serve
15:08 – Moving beyond “influencer culture” to real business outcomes
18:58 – The cost of being invisible in commercial real estate
24:06 – Building an authentic Substack and audience growth
36:23 – The power of video and authentic presence
38:39 – Lessons learned: start small, stay consistent, keep it real
43:43 – Storytelling as the foundation of a meaningful brand
Show Notes & Links
🎧 Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
Guest: Rachel — Marketing Strategist & Branding Advisor
Connect: Rachel on LinkedIn