In this episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, Kyle Matthews sits down with Jodie McLean, CEO of EDENS, one of the nation’s largest privately held owners, operators, and developers of open-air retail and mixed-use destinations.

Jodie’s journey is anything but conventional. She joined EDENS as a financial analyst fresh out of college and spent more than three decades helping transform the company into a real estate powerhouse with a portfolio that serves millions of people every day. Along the way, she became one of the most respected leaders in commercial real estate, served as Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, and helped redefine what retail real estate can be in a rapidly changing world.

Kyle and Jodie discuss leadership, mentorship, career longevity, the future of retail, artificial intelligence, community building, and the lessons learned from leading through economic cycles, e-commerce disruption, and changing consumer behavior.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Jodie rose from analyst to CEO after 36 years at one company

• Why loyalty, impact, and long-term thinking still matter in today's business world

• The leadership lessons that shaped EDENS' culture and growth

• How e-commerce transformed retail real estate—and why physical places matter more than ever

• Why AI may increase demand for human connection, not decrease it

• What makes great communities and thriving mixed-use developments

• Her experience serving as Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

• The challenges and opportunities of being a female leader in commercial real estate

• Why culture ultimately beats strategy in building great organizations

• The importance of mentorship, curiosity, resilience, and taking calculated risks

Jodie also shares the story of nearly leaving EDENS, the mentor who changed her career trajectory, and the bold decisions that helped shape one of the most innovative retail real estate companies in America.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, investor, commercial real estate professional, or someone looking to build a meaningful career, this conversation is packed with wisdom on leadership, purpose, and creating lasting impact.

Follow Jodie McLean:

LinkedIn: Jodie McLean

Instagram: @jodiewmclean

Learn More About EDENS:

https://www.edens.com

Follow Kyle Matthews:

Instagram: @KyleMatthewsCEO

X: @KyleMatthewsCEO

LinkedIn: Kyle Matthews

TikTok: @KyleMatthewsCEO

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