Building Legacy with Jaebadiah Gardner: Ownership, Vision & Community Wealth
On a recent episode of Almost The Weekend, hosts Besa Gordon and Curtis Delgardo II sat down with Jaebadiah Gardner, founder of Gardner Global, to talk about legacy-building, real estate, and creating lasting impact in historically Black communities.
The conversation dove into one of his biggest ongoing projects: redeveloping the Mount Calvary site in Seattle’s Central District—formerly Curtis' family church. Gardner Global now owns both sides of the street near 23rd and Union. The plans? An eight-story mixed-income housing development with 117 units, 35% of which will be affordable. There’s also a market hall concept for small local businesses and—pending city approval—a rooftop speakeasy-style café.
“This isn’t just about housing,” Jaebadiah said. “It’s about creating spaces where people can live, connect, and grow. Imagine grabbing a Seattle sorbet downstairs, then heading to a rooftop nightcap with live cello in the background.”
The work doesn’t stop there. Jaebadiah also shared updates on a three-and-a-half-acre property in Skyway, where his team is cleaning up environmental damage in partnership with the Department of Ecology. The vision is a dynamic neighborhood hub—think U Village vibes, but with housing and a strong Black and brown community focus.
Throughout the conversation, Jaebadiah emphasized how intentional his development process is. He evaluates properties based on cultural relevance, economic opportunity, and their ability to create lasting value for the community. “This is about reclamation,” he said. “We’re still here.”
When asked what advice he has for people getting into real estate, Jaebadiah kept it real. “Development takes years. There’s no cash flow at the beginning, no renters, just vision. Persistence, determination, and passion will carry you far. And always be willing to learn.”
To stay connected with Jaebadiah Gardner and his work, visit Jaebadiah.com or follow him on all platforms at @Jaebadiah.
Almost The Weekend Thursdays at 9 PM on Converge Media, hosted by Besa Gordon & Curtis Delgardo II
Photos by Susan Fried on behalf of Converge Media
