Ryan sits down with Peter Murphy Lewis to talk about how storytelling can help developers and builders attract better talent and build stronger teams. They break down simple, practical ways to use video and real stories to stand out in today’s labor market.
Hustle, Persistence, and Hands-On Learning In Land Development with Jerry Holden

Episode Overview
In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick is joined by Jerry Holden, founder and CEO of The Holden Agency. Jerry shares how his journey started on the baseball field and transitioned into a real estate career built on hustle, persistence, and hands-on learning. After a career-ending injury, Jerry turned a home-buying experience into the start of a lifelong passion for real estate—and eventually, land development.
He talks about the early days of door knocking to build a client base and how that same mindset carried him to the top of his market. Jerry discusses the founding of The Holden Agency, the launch of related businesses like THA Mortgage and THA Title, and his experience with building condo developments through Epcon Communities. He emphasizes how he used hard work, self-education, and a no-fear approach to build a successful business.
Jerry also talks in-depth about his current project—a 64-home active adult community next to Ohio State University’s Mansfield campus. He shares how local studies, market research, and direct feedback from agents informed the development. He also explains the importance of understanding zoning, working with municipalities, and staying organized through each stage of a land project.
Guest Details
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