What Great Business Relationships Are Built On, With Ben Friedland

In this episode of Disrupt for Good, Dylan sits down with Ben Friedland, Vice Chairman, Co-Head of CBRE Alternative Investments Practice, to explore what truly drives long-term success in business. With more than two decades advising some of the world’s largest private equity and hedge funds, Ben shares his insights on trust, mentorship, negotiation, communication, and why relationships remain the foundation of every great deal. From navigating high-pressure transactions to building credibility that compounds over time, this conversation is packed with timeless lessons for anyone building a career in business.Key Takeaways:Relationships Are the Real Currency of Business. Long-term success isn’t built on transactions alone — it’s built on trust, credibility, and genuine human connection. Ben explains why the strongest business relationships are cultivated over years, not moments.Communication Creates Leverage. In a world dominated by texts and emails, Ben shares why face-to-face conversations, phone calls, and authentic communication still create the strongest outcomes in negotiations and leadership.Play the Long Game. Ben breaks down the mindset of being “long-term greedy” — focusing on giving clients the best possible advice, building trust, and prioritising reputation over short-term wins.Guest Details:Find out more about Ben and CBRE www.cbre.com/people/benjamin-friedlandFollow the Host:Follow Dylan for more conversations and insights ⁠⁠@disrupt4goodpod⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@dylan.gaitman⁠⁠