From barges to bayous, how one riverboat captain built a thriving appraisal firm through heart, hustle, and local trust.

In this episode of Appraisers on Purpose, we sit down with respected appraiser Joseph Mier, whose 30-year journey into the profession began in the most unlikely of places, the deck of a riverboat.

Joseph shares how the decision to leave life on the water wasn’t just a career change; it was a commitment to being present for his family. That clarity of purpose fueled a bold pivot into appraisal, where he started small, taking classes on his days off, appraising any home he could, and grew into a trusted voice in Louisiana real estate.

His message? You don’t need the “right background” to succeed. What you need is integrity, consistency, and the courage to start before you feel ready.

Joseph also dives into why building trust through local expertise, community relationships, and a deep respect for the process has kept his business thriving for over two decades.

Whether you’re new to the field or ready to take your practice deeper, Joseph’s story is proof that a meaningful, sustainable appraisal career is absolutely possible, and it starts with purpose.

🎧 Tune in for a hopeful, grounded conversation on how to grow a lasting business, one relationship at a time.