Today we’d like to introduce you to Meridian Mayer & Josie George.
Hi Meridian Mayer & Josie George, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Meridian Mayer: I became a Realtor five years ago after spending over a decade in corporate sales. Following an unexpected layoff, I made the decision to fully commit to real estate—a path I had already begun pursuing by working toward my license. It felt like the right moment to lean into the opportunity and grow both professionally and personally.
With a background in interior architecture and design, real estate became the perfect intersection of my passions: sales, design, and working closely with people to help them achieve their goals.
Early in my career, I discovered that my greatest strengths lie in authenticity and community. As a Black man and member of the LGBTQ+ community, I began carving out a space that felt both meaningful and aligned with who I am—and that clarity helped drive my business forward.
As a natural connector, I’ve intentionally sought out like-minded professionals in the industry. I was fortunate to meet Josie, and we quickly discovered a shared vision: to do purposeful, community-centered work that empowers others through homeownership.
Josie George: I began my career in real estate as a licensed agent in California, originally looking to earn some extra income. While I quickly realized that driving clients around wasn’t my favorite part of the job, I discovered a real passion for the real estate industry itself. On a whim, I responded to a LinkedIn message about a mortgage lending position, accepted the offer and I’ve never looked back.
I built my business by developing a personal brand that highlighted what made me different and allowed me to attract the kind of clients I truly enjoy working with, including Meridian! After a year of steady growth, I found myself in a position to be more intentional about the partners I collaborate with. Since then, I’ve continued to cultivate a strong, values-driven community within the real estate space. Now, my work feels less like a job and more like a calling.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Meridian Mayer: Real estate is inherently complex, but I’ve always loved a challenge and was excited to take it on. Building my business as a new agent required patience, consistency, and a willingness to learn. I started out working rental deals and cold leads, an experience that taught me the value of refining my systems and, most importantly, the power of asking the right questions.
As my skills grew, I began to attract stronger leads and connect with clients who were serious about entering the market. That momentum helped propel my business forward.
The most difficult aspects of this industry are threefold: educating clients on the realities of the market, staying informed on external factors that influence market conditions, and navigating the ups and downs of a 1099 role with inconsistent income. Each challenge has pushed me to become more resilient, more strategic, and more committed to my clients’ success.
Josie George: The mortgage industry is still predominantly male-dominated, and entering the field as a tattooed, pierced, LGBTQ+ woman came with its own set of challenges. I often had to work twice as hard to be seen, heard, and taken seriously, especially in rooms where I didn’t look or sound like everyone else. It took time for people in the industry to recognize my value beyond the surface.
To build confidence and command space, I even created an alter ego—channeling the energy of a wealthy, confident man, to help me speak up and own my worth. It may sound funny, but it worked, and it still helps me show up strong when I need it most.
Another major hurdle was transitioning from a salaried job to 100% commission. The uncertainty of not knowing when my next paycheck would come was daunting. But once I pushed through that initial fear and focused on consistency and building relationships, the rewards began to show—and that fear became fuel instead of a roadblock.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Merdian Mayer: I genuinely love real estate, not just the properties themselves, but what real estate can provide: stability, opportunity, empowerment, and a better quality of life. I specialize in helping individuals who are ready to invest, buy, or sell, and who need a trusted advocate to guide them through the process with clarity and care.
What I’m most proud of is my natural ability to truly connect with people. I see my clients for who they are, encourage their dreams, and deliver an experience rooted in trust, excellence, and empathy.
What sets the work that Josie and I do apart is our shared commitment to leading with heart. We approach every transaction with focused intention and a deep desire to empower others to make smart, aligned real estate decisions that support their long-term goals.
Josie George: I’m a mortgage lender with Lower Local Mortgage, where I help individuals and families navigate the process of purchasing a home, refinancing, or leveraging the equity in their current property. While my role is rooted in numbers and strategy, my approach is deeply personal, I’m known for blending professionalism with authenticity, and for truly caring about the partners and clients I work with.
I specialize in creating customized financial plans, particularly for first-time homebuyers who may need a little extra education and guidance along the way. What really sets me apart is my commitment to building community. I regularly host educational events designed to make homeownership feel approachable and inclusive, bringing people together to learn and connect in a fun, welcoming environment.
I’m most proud of the growth I’ve achieved in a relatively short time, the meaningful relationships I’ve built, many of which have grown into genuine friendships, like my partnership with Meridian, and the reputation I’ve established within the Columbus real estate market. Being a trusted, recognizable name in this industry is something I don’t take for granted.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something many people don’t know is that both Meridian and Josie are adopted. It’s a personal part of our stories that has shaped who we are and how we connect with others. This shared experience gives us a unique perspective and a deeper ability to relate to people from all walks of life. In real estate, where every client’s journey is different, that empathy and understanding help us show up with compassion, open-mindedness, and a genuine desire to support others in building stability and home.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josies_loanlounge_
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meridianmayer/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/meridiannnnnnn___/
