Lessons from the Winner’s Circle: Key Takeaways from the 2025 SIOR Fall Event By Matt Osowski, SIOR
Lessons from the Winner's Circle: Key Takeaways from the 2025 SIOR Fall Event
By Matt Osowski, SIOR
The SIOR Fall 2025 conference in Louisville delivered exactly what the organization promised: powerful connections, actionable insights, and a clear view of where industrial real estate is headed.
I kicked off the week with Rod Santomassimo and Bob Knakal's fireside chat on their book, Selling Buildings, reinforcing strategies for improving efficiency and scaling your business. While I'd already read the book, hearing their insights live added valuable context.
As a Great Lakes Regional Director, I attended the Chapter Leadership Council meeting and Regional Directors' meeting. Learning how SIOR operates behind the scenes—and discussing ways to strengthen our regions—gave me a deeper appreciation for the organization. Huge credit to Dan Smolensky, who's been an incredible mentor and will excel as Vice President!
Later, I joined the Industrial Roundtable (a little late!) and loved hearing perspectives on what’s driving industrial demand nationwide. One clear takeaway: advanced manufacturing will shape middle markets moving forward.
Wednesday started bright and early with a CrossFit workout led by Mike Adams and Landon Williams alongside 30 fellow SIORs. It was a fantastic team-building experience and a fun format—I hope this becomes a staple at every SIOR event!
From there, I attended the New Member Breakfast as an ambassador for three outstanding new SIORs. It was great to see so many fresh faces and I’m excited to build connections with all of them.
Next up was a session with Danny Fontaine, author of Pitch. His book offers practical strategies for persuasive communication in CRE—highly recommend for anyone looking to sharpen their presentation skills.
The Industrial Forum, led by Jim Klein, was standing room only.
Discussing market trends coast to coast (and even overseas) helps us guide clients and anticipate what’s next. I had the opportunity to share insights on Columbus, and the response confirmed what we're seeing locally: Columbus is firmly on the national radar for industrial development.
That evening, I stopped by the Panattoni Party at the Louisville Slugger Museum and caught up with Rod and Vince Santomassimo. Rod continues to push boundaries in our business, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
Former Navy SEAL Brent Gleeson delivered one of the most impactful sessions of the conference. His focus on discipline, resilience, and actionable leadership strategies applies directly to how we run our businesses and serve clients.
We wrapped up with an unforgettable trip to Churchill Downs. The camaraderie was unmatched, even if my betting skills left my wallet a little lighter!
All in all, this was an amazing event.
This conference delivered what matters most: practical insights on market trends, proven strategies for business development, and connections with the industry's top producers.
I'm leaving Louisville with a clearer picture of where industrial real estate is headed and how Columbus fits into that future. I learned, connected, and left energized.
