Training Tomorrow’s Talent: UF’s Bergstrom Center and the Future of Real Estate Education

In Episode 821 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried is joined by Tim Becker, Director of the UF Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies, and Max Wolfman, a student whose recent competition win is launching him into a promising real estate career in Miami.

This episode shines a light on how higher education—when paired with mentorship and real-world experience—can create powerful professional outcomes. Tim shares how the Bergstrom Center’s forward-thinking approach connects students with industry leaders and hands-on experiences that translate directly into job offers and career clarity.

Max discusses his personal journey through UF’s real estate program, including how participating in national competitions helped him develop the leadership, communication, and strategic skills needed to stand out in a competitive market. Now, Max is bringing that momentum to Miami, where he’s set to begin his first job in the field.

Whether you’re an aspiring professional, a current student, or someone looking to mentor the next generation of talent, this episode offers a front-row seat to how academic institutions can shape the future of industries through opportunity, community, and education.

🎧 Listen now to hear how real estate careers are being built today—from the inside out.

---------------------

Jim Fried has been a real estate business person since 1980 and has had his own radio show since 2009.

Mr. Fried specializes in capitalizing commercial real estate transactions, unearthing urban land opportunities and is also a private lender.

He has been active in the real estate industry for many years as a financial intermediary, broker and investor. He has experience with many property types including, but not limited to: apartments, condominiums, retail centers, office buildings, industrial parks and health care – with a special focus on memory care.

Jim has closed over $3BB in real estate transactions during his career in markets across the eastern US.

Jim uses his communication skills to inform and entertain on his weekly podcast show – Fried on Business. Of course, the show discusses real estate, but he also tackles issues such as branding, sports business, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, public private partnerships as well as health and wellness.

He is also a mentor to many up and coming people in the real estate industry through his membership on the Board of The University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

Mr. Fried is a winner of the Miami-Dade Public School Alumni Achievement Award.

Contact Jim via email at jim@friedonbusiness.com