Blazing Trails in Construction with Maranda Adams, Co-CEO of Blair Freeman
In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Maranda Adams, co-CEO of Blair Freeman, a women-owned construction firm. Maranda shares her journey from establishing a real estate investment company in 2010 to co-founding Blair Freeman in 2018. She discusses the significance of North Omaha, the challenges and triumphs in the construction industry, and the importance of being solution-driven, innovative, and empathetic. Adams also emphasizes the value of mentorship, shared leadership, and the role of community support in balancing personal and professional life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and community transformation.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:04 Meet Miranda Adams: Visionary Leader
00:57 The Birth of Blair Freeman
02:04 Revitalizing North Omaha
03:12 Miranda’s Real Estate Journey
07:38 Shared Leadership at Blair Freeman
10:26 Balancing Leadership and Family
16:18 Integration Over Balance
17:53 Balancing Family and Business
18:25 The Power of Networking
19:43 Navigating Business Challenges
22:37 Team Communication and Problem Solving
23:36 Encouraging Careers in Construction
25:27 Leadership and Mentorship
29:13 Future Goals and Expansion
36:42 The Importance of Service
Mentioned in this Episode:
Email: maranda@blairfreeman.com,
Set Up for Success at Work Mentorship Guide and Bonuses
Listener Feedback Form – Share how you see people shaping the future – and/or ask a question for Andrea and guests to address on the show.
Summary:
What does it look like to lead with boldness, transparency, and a heart for transformation? For Maranda Adams, co-CEO of Blair Freeman, it means reshaping neighborhoods, reimagining leadership, and redefining what’s possible in the construction industry.
With deep roots in real estate and community development, Maranda co-founded Blair Freeman in 2018—a 100% woman-owned construction and owner’s representation firm—alongside her business partner, Ashley Kuhn. Their mission? To build more than just structures. They’re building legacies.
Don’t miss our full conversation on the Voice of Influence podcast.
Shared Leadership That Works
Maranda and Ashley’s unique decision to operate as co-CEOs speaks volumes about their commitment to collaboration and empowerment.
“People always ask… co-CEOs? But it’s truly shared leadership,” Adams explains. “We make decisions together and we bring our staff into the process too. We empower our team to be at the table.”
That inclusive model is at the core of Blair Freeman’s success. It’s not just about shared titles; it’s about shared vision, shared responsibility, and shared impact. In a world where top-down leadership is the norm, Maranda proves there’s power in bringing others in.
Start With the Why—and Lead with Service
Perhaps the most powerful moment of the conversation came when Maranda described Blair Freeman’s “Wall of Why”—a visual collection of photos, clippings, and memories that remind the team what they’re working toward.
“Every time someone walks in the back door, they see it. Our families, our community, our legacy. That’s our why,” she shares.
Her challenge to aspiring leaders? “Serve. Do something for someone else. It gives you perspective, it grounds you, and it reminds you why you do what you do.”
Maranda Adams is not just building structures, she’s building futures. Her story is a reminder that influence begins with vision, grows through collaboration, and is sustained by service.