David Binder
Senior vice president, MLG Capital | Age: 37
David Binder funded his education by working full time at Wells Fargo Bank. After completing his degree in marketing, with an emphasis on real estate, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2009, Binder followed a career path that brought him to MLG Capital, where he has risen to the role of senior vice president. The firm credits Binder for playing an active role in its growth.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Binder is involved in multiple community organizations, including serving on the board of the Real Estate Alliance for Charity and on the advisory board for Marquette University’s Center for Real Estate.
What was your first job?
Very first was a paper route. I wanted a new bike, so I delivered newspapers every day after school in seventh grade and early Saturdays. Sounds fun and all until it's winter for six months! Ended up with a rad bike.
Person that most inspires you?
Not sure about only one person, as I thoroughly enjoy meeting people and learning about what, why and how they do things. I'm naturally ensured by those that work hard, give back their talent, time and treasure and boot-strapped folks.
What super power would you want to have?
I'd like to have the superpower of duplication of myself. I'd finally be able to catch up on sleep and would be able to accomplish much more in my personal life, at the office and in community service initiatives!
Person you would most like to meet?
My mother's father. He was also a Type 1 diabetic (as I am, diagnosed in 1997). I recently found records of him crossing a footbridge from Mexico into Laredo, Texas, in the early 1900s. He passed before I could remember him and would love to hear his stories, successes and struggles endured to make a better life for his family.
Something about you that would surprise people?
I'm a Type 1 diabetic. Since my diagnosis in 1997, it's estimated that I've taken over 60,000 insulin injections.
Who's your mentor?
I'm a big advocate for mentorship and have had some amazing mentors over the years, whether they've known they were a mentor or not! In my younger years, Nicole Hanrahan. Not only did she give me a chance but also taught me about people and life. I've been blessed to work alongside Tim Wallen, MLG's CEO, for nearly a decade now and very much appreciate his guidance both professionally and personally over the years.
Your favorite film?
I'm kind of a nerd, but I'll watch anything from "Braveheart" to "War Dogs" to "The Departed." Also love stand-up comedy live and recorded.
What are you currently reading, or what's your favorite type of book?
I'm not a big paper book guy any longer, but anything financial ("Liar's Poker") or leadership-oriented (Adam Grant). More into podcasts and industry-specific reading nowadays.
Favorite sports team?
I can't pick just one. I'm a Wisconsin sports team die-hard, inherited from birth. Those Bucks, however, are something to watch.
Favorite saying or word?
I'm pretty widely known to default to "Just livin' the dream" whenever asked how it's going!
What is your favorite or most-used app?
Dexcom. It's amazing that I can see my blood sugar on my phone, play around with trends and adjust my insulin scales accordingly. I still don't know how so many Type 1 diabetics managed without for so long!
What is your dream vacation?
With family: Anywhere with a beach, a pool, good food and cold drinks! We are regular Anna Maria Island, Florida, visitors.
With my wife: Amalfi Coast, Italy, or Seychelles – we've not been yet!
By myself: Backpack across the Philippines and Thailand. Eat, meet people and see places!
What you want to be doing in 10 years?
Continuing being creative and making things happen. Also, still focusing on community involvement and serving others. I'd also like to join more boards and contribute to others' successes.
Favorite hobby?
I love being part of the coaching team for my son's baseball and football team. Go Brookfield Central Lancers! I'm also a super nerd. So, murder or financial documentaries, self-learning how to write code, learning about or using new tech.
What would be your walk-up song and why?
I listen to a big variety of music ranging from 90s rock to new alternative to rap (pre-2015-ish), hip-hop, R&B, to tropical house/EDM or LoFi and funk. I don't have a favorite song, but I'd say a good combo of all of my music likes would be "Cooped Up/Return of the Mack" by Post Malone, "Believe" by The Main Squeeze or anything by Kygo or Illenium.
What is on the top of your bucket list?
Skydive! I've been asking my wife for years. Also, to create a personal foundation dedicated to youth navigating poverty (cherry on top if they're also Type 1 diabetic).
What would you tell your teenage self?
Listen and retain. It's amazing how now you reflect back on all the advice that was given to you as you grow and realize how so many folks are trying to help you out by sharing their experiences.
What is your favorite attraction in Milwaukee?
Fiserv, watching the Bucks, a concert or comedian
What is your favorite restaurant or bar in Milwaukee?
Carnevor. Also really digging the new Il Cervo.
What has been the most challenging thing you've faced career-wise?
I think leaving my last role to come to MLG. I had an established career (but was very young so could rebuild) and bumped into the opportunity here. Risks can bear rewards if you're surrounded by great people. All challenges are opportunities!
What's one professional goal you have for the next 12 months?
We are currently focused on bringing more technology and efficiencies to our organization. Taking ideas and thoughts and putting into action is incredibly challenging but also very rewarding. I like puzzles and complicated stuff.
Why did you choose to live in Milwaukee and what keeps you here?
This is home. Everywhere I've been, I always look forward to being back here. The summers that we earn cannot be beat. It's also a combination of the amazing people, food and trajectory this community has that is truly electric and fun to be part of.
What's one change you would make to improve Milwaukee?
Schooling. We have a big disparity of school performance, sometimes within blocks of one another. It'll take a community working together to improve. It's enlightening to see all of the ideas in the market and also those ideas coming to fruition!
What can Milwaukee leaders do to attract the 40 Under 40 winners from other cities?
Retain and capitalize on the talent this state produces. There is still too much talent flight. There are amazing schools here that produce top-tier talent. It's far too often that the talent leaves and returns in their late 30s.
Other profession you'd like to try?
Seeing as I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up, there are a few! Pediatric endocrinologist, senator or a venture capitalist come to mind.