E14: Jude Bernard: Building a Real Estate Empire From the Ground Up

This week, Mary welcomes Jude Bernard, Founder of The Brooklyn Bank (A Non-Profit Bank Alternative*), real estate broker, investor, and general contractor. Jude is a first-generation American of Haitian descent who turned an over-leveraged real estate venture into a portfolio worth tens of millions. In this conversation, he reflects on his early struggles during the 2008 financial crisis, his pivot to commercial real estate, and how he managed to salvage his portfolio without losing a single property.

Jude emphasizes the importance of discipline, continuous learning, and maintaining a “never again” mentality. He and Mary also explore his strategies for managing risk, the value of insurability, and the power of taking full accountability for your actions. Lastly, he shares his approach to exit strategies—ensuring multiple options to protect and transfer equity—and the mindset necessary for long-term success in real estate.

 

Topics Include:

• The Power of Discipline and Mindset
• Navigating the Challenges of Scaling Up
• The Sacrifices Required for Success
• Risk Management in Real Estate
• Exit Strategies and Long-Term Planning

 

Connect with Jude and Brooklyn Bank: 

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

 

Let's Get Social: Connect with Planet Wealth

 

Visit Us: Planet Wealth Website

 

Produced By: Social Chameleon

 

*a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization (a non-member of the FDIC) dedicated to providing underserved individuals of color.