Melissa Swader: A Trailblazer in Commercial Real Estate
Melissa Swader, the president and CEO of Ruby Red Media, has made significant strides in the real estate sector, being named a Trailblazer in RISMedia’s 2025 Real Estate Newsmakers. Known for her adept marketing and public relations skills, she has also gained recognition for her editorial contributions to THRIVE Magazine as well as for founding the Women in Commercial Real Estate (WICRE) group in 2021.
Building a Supportive Community
Since its inception nearly five years ago, WICRE has grown to over 800 members and offers resources such as mentorship programs, virtual meetings, local events, a YouTube channel, a newsletter, and a podcast. Reflecting on the impact of this community, Swader expressed, “What has impacted me the most is witnessing the depth of emotional connection this network of women has fostered.” She highlighted the importance of vulnerability, noting that it transforms competition into collaboration by allowing women to share not only professional triumphs but personal challenges as well.
Launching THRIVE Magazine
Swader’s vision for THRIVE Magazine was born from the need to celebrate the accomplishments of women in commercial real estate who are often overlooked. Since the magazine’s launch, it has released five issues focused on real stories from women in the industry. “THRIVE is a publication by a woman, about women and for women,” she stated. However, her aspirations go beyond that; she intends for THRIVE to foster collaboration and equality among all genders in the commercial real estate space. With over 800 LinkedIn subscribers, her goal is for the magazine to serve as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for the entire industry.
Empowerment Through “One Yellow Brick”
In 2020, Swader authored the book One Yellow Brick: Wizardly Tips to Empower Building Your Empire. This work aims to assist small business owners, nonprofits, and real estate professionals in navigating marketing intricacies. Drawing inspiration from the iconic film, *The Wizard of Oz*, she emphasized the importance of building a solid foundation. “My hope is that readers walk away feeling inspired and empowered,” Swader remarked. The book encapsulates practical advice to help readers succeed in their respective fields.
Strategic Branding in Real Estate
With a reputation as a top-performing marketing agency, Ruby Red Media excels in SEO, social media marketing, public relations, and graphic design. Swader leverages these competencies to help commercial real estate professionals build their brands. “Commercial real estate is an industry where reputation and visibility are everything,” she noted. By employing creative strategies and innovative messaging, she guides her clients in establishing trust and authority within their markets.
Navigating the Changing Media Landscape
Over her extensive career in media, Swader has witnessed numerous changes in the industry. For those struggling to navigate the current media landscape, she advises starting small and practicing consistently. “I have created many short 2-minute video vlogs to teach people how to gain the confidence they need,” she said. Her approach encourages individuals to express their authentic selves while developing their personal brands through various digital platforms.
Maintaining Work/Life Balance
Swader recognizes the demanding nature of real estate and the potential for burnout. She emphasizes the need for individuals to reconnect with their ‘why’—the passion that initially drew them to their careers. Establishing boundaries is crucial to achieving a successful work/life balance, allowing professionals to thrive both personally and professionally.
A Bright Future in Commercial Real Estate
The achievements of Melissa Swader reflect her commitment to empowering women in the commercial real estate sector. As she continues to champion collaboration and diversity through her initiatives, Swader’s influence is expected to inspire many within the industry. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of representation, support, and resilience in forging a brighter future for all professionals.
For ongoing coverage and interviews with notable figures in real estate, visit RISMedia.com.