The FORT Podcast: Jason Baxter (Part 1)
In Episode 2, Chris sits down with business partner and friend Jason Baxter. They discuss the city of Fort Worth and its future, personal insights on success and growth, as well as advice for people looking to pursue their passions. Jason discusses how his focus and personal discipline helped him grow Fort Capital into what it has become today.
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00:51 — Jason’s Background
01:29 — Why Real Estate?
08:11 — How did you realize that you wanted to get out of sales?
11:30 — Chris and Jason’s First Experience Working Together
13:10 — What is the narrative around urban infill in Fort Worth?
17:13 — What are the things that are currently challenging about urban development in Fort Worth? What needs to change to make it easier to develop?
24:41 — How is technology driving the future of Fort Worth and other cities?
29:00 — Why is Fort Worth the “Land of Opportunity?” Where do you see the biggest opportunities here?
34:49 — Where did you learn about culture? Why is it important?
42:00 — What is something a leader can do to start the discussion about culture?
44:39 — What are some things that are exciting to you about the future?
51:40 — Jason’s Mindset about Controlling His Choices
55:25 — What advice would you give your 21-year old self?
59:09 — What defines success? What are some of your goals over the next ten years?
1:01:47 — What is your favorite quote?
1:02:52 — Is there anyone that you enjoy learning from?
Episode Summary
Jason Baxter’s journey, characterized by a willingness to take risks and a commitment to learning through direct experience, serves as a valuable blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs and real estate professionals. He passionately advocates for the importance of diving headfirst into opportunities, emphasizing that there is no better time than the present to pursue one’s goals and ambitions. Baxter’s belief in the transformative power of experience is a recurring theme throughout the discussion, as he encourages listeners to actively seek out challenges and immerse themselves in their chosen fields to gain invaluable insights and skills.
The role of mentorship and the power of networking are highlighted as crucial elements in career development. Baxter shares his personal experiences of how mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to business, providing him with guidance, perspective, and invaluable lessons that have significantly influenced his success. He underscores the importance of building a strong network of relationships, emphasizing that these connections can open doors to opportunities, provide support, and contribute to one’s professional growth.
Delving into the dynamics of partnership, Baxter provides an in-depth look at what it takes to build a successful and lasting business relationship. He discusses the importance of aligning values and vision, fostering a culture of trust and transparent communication, and leveraging complementary skill sets to create a synergistic and productive partnership. Baxter highlights transparency and accountability as key factors in maintaining a positive working relationship, contributing to the long-term stability and success of the business.
The conversation also delves into the strategic aspects of real estate investment, with Baxter sharing our approach to navigating the complexities of real estate deals. He emphasizes the critical importance of thorough due diligence, a deep understanding of market dynamics, and the ability to identify value-add opportunities. Baxter provides practical advice on risk management and deal structuring, highlighting the need for a meticulous and thoughtful approach to optimize returns and mitigate potential risks.
As the podcast nears its conclusion, Baxter turns his attention to the future of real estate and the increasing role of technology in the industry. He discusses the transformative impact of digital tools on business operations and decision-making processes, highlighting how technology is driving efficiency and innovation in real estate. Baxter underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, urging professionals to embrace change and stay informed to navigate the evolving market landscape and remain competitive.