Episode 120

Leveraging the Power of Presence with Carson Baird

On today’s Performance Mindset Show, Amy sits down with Carson Baird, an associate with LQ Commercial Real Estate in Fort Myers, Florida. Carson represents clients in retail, industrial, office, and land transactions across southwest Florida and the Southeast. He built a background in B2B technology sales and consulting, working with startup CEOs on scaling strategies. That foundation gives him a consultative, data-driven edge in CRE. In just a few years, Carson has handled tenant and buyer representation, project leasing, dispositions, and national site selection for brands like Gerber Collision as a CCIM designee. He is known for bringing strategy, creativity, and authenticity to every deal and for an engaging social media presence that has helped him build a national network of clients and colleagues.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Carson Baird’s career path into commercial real estate as an industrial specialist, his role, and his dad’s influence.
  2. The benefits Amy has experienced as a part of a large brokerage since closing her small brokerage.
  3. The unique qualities of the Southwest Florida market and what’s changed over the past few years.
  4. Carson’s focus on LinkedIn versus other types of social media and why he chose that one over others like X.
  5. Building a social media strategy to create a personal brand.
  6. Balancing family and professional obligations.
  7. His favorite personal and professional victories.
  8. Who is motivating and inspiring Carson in commercial real estate.

Connect with Amy Calandrino here:

Beyond Commercial - https://beyondcommercial.com/amy-calandrino-ccim/

Amy Calandrino - https://linktr.ee/amycalandrino

Connect with Carson Baird:

LQ Commercial Real Estate - https://lqcre.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsoncre/

X - https://x.com/Carson_CRE

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About the Podcast

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The Performance Mindset Show
Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.

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About your host

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Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.