CRE Unplugged: Innovating from the Streets to the Skyline

The power grid holding America's AI future together was built decades ago and it was never designed for this. Two of the sharpest minds in data center development just told us exactly what's coming.Trillions of dollars are flooding into data center development, but most of the people chasing that capital do not understand the fundamentals. In this episode of CRE Unplugged, host Ryan Elazari sits down with Dillon Zahler, co-founder of Colossus Data Center Advisors, and Nathaniel Persky, Senior Director of Project Development at Dataprana, for a ground-level breakdown of what is actually happening in the data center market and what most people are getting wrong.The conversation covers the real risk profile of AI-driven demand, why the anticipated power wall around 2030 is more serious than most developers are pricing in, and why natural gas remains the backbone of the energy mix despite the industry's renewable commitments. Zahler and Persky also tackle the community education gap that is generating moratoriums and misinformation at the local government level, and explain why data centers are in fact subsidizing grid upgrades that should have been completed decades ago.Show Notes:0:00: Introduction: Trillions Flowing Into Data Centers1:32: Dinner Party Test: How Public Perception of Data Centers Has Shifted4:26: What "Data Center" Actually Means 8:01: Dillon & Nathan's Origin Stories11:47: AI Boom Risk: Overbuilt Capacity and the Reusability Problem20:50: The Power Wall: What 2030 Actually Means for the Market23:39: Who Is Really Paying for Grid Upgrades? The Subsidy Argument34:01: Renewables vs. Reality: Why Natural Gas Is Still the Backbone38:00: Nuclear Energy: Why Scaling It Is Harder Than Anyone Admits44:57: Hyperscale vs. Smaller Sites: Where Is the Smart Money Going?51:53: Community Pushback, Moratoriums, and the Education Gap56:08: Economic Impact: Tax Revenue & Jobs 60:32: Advice for CRE Professionals Entering the Data Center Space68:00: Ryan's Takeaways Guest Bios Dillon Zahler is the co-founder of Colossus Data Center Advisors, a development and due diligence platform that works with landowners, industrial groups, and financial institutions to evaluate data center potential. He began his career as a mechanical engineer serving the U.S. Navy and laboratory equipment sectors before moving into MEP design and construction management for data centers, where he has been involved in over five to six gigawatts of development exercises. His firm sits at the intersection of technical rigor and capital markets strategy.Nathaniel Persky is the Senior Director of Project Development for Data Center Construction at Dataprana, where he leads large-scale facility development from site selection through execution. His path into the sector is unconventional — he spent years as a commercial real estate broker focused on high-power industrial users including movie studios and medical marijuana facilities before transitioning into data center development. That cross-sector background gives him a distinct perspective on capital deployment, utility relationships, and market evaluation.If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Connect With Us📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: ⁠www.creunplugged.com⁠📺 YouTube: ⁠@CREUnplugged⁠💼 LinkedIn: ⁠CRE Unplugged⁠📱 Instagram: ⁠@CREUnplugged⁠This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

Small businesses aren't credit risks. They're cash flow timing risks. And the commercial real estate industry has been treating them like the same problem for decades.In this episode of the CRE Unplugged Founder Series, Ryan Elazari sits down with Alix Maurin and Joseph Thalinjan, Co-Founders of RentFlow, a Y Combinator-backed platform giving small business tenants flexible, cash flow-aligned rent payment solutions while ensuring landlords still get paid on the first of the month. Two former McKinsey consultants who discovered that nearly 50% of small businesses are late on rent, not because they can't pay, but because of a structural mismatch between when money comes in and when rent is due.The conversation covers how RentFlow uses bank transaction data and AI to analyze actual payment behavior rather than outdated credit proxies, what landlords miss when they rely on traditional underwriting, and why the rigid monthly rent cycle built for 1950 is quietly damaging commercial portfolios today. Alix and Joseph also open up about product-market fit, navigating the transition from corporate to founder life, and what it really means to build through doubt.Ryan closes with his Moneyball take: the landlords who adopt a data-driven approach to tenant relationships early will have the same competitive edge the Oakland A's had. This is that inflection point for commercial real estate.Show Notes:00:11: Intro to RentFlow co-founders Alix Maurin and Joseph Thalinjan01:39: Life as startup founders: sleep schedules and working styles03:03: From McKinsey to Y Combinator: the path to RentFlow03:54: The "aha moment": nearly 50% of small businesses are late on rent08:11: How the rent payment landscape has changed since COVID13:40: Finding real product-market fit vs. just hearing what you want to hear20:27: RentFlow's data-driven edge for landlords21:37: Why traditional credit scores fall short31:54: 5 year vision: becoming the stability layer for small businesses38:83: Advice for founders debating whether to leave their corporate job46:20: Ryan's Takeaways: CRE's Moneyball momentConnect With Us📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: www.creunplugged.com📺 YouTube: @CREUnplugged💼 LinkedIn: CRE Unplugged📱 Instagram: @CREUnpluggedLearn more about RentFlow and their flexible rent payment platform at TheRentFlow.com or connect with Alix and Joseph directly on LinkedIn.Want to be featured on the Founders' Series? We're spotlighting bold leaders building the future of commercial real estate. Reach out at [email protected]’re always looking to spotlight bold leaders and founders who are building the future of commercial real estate. If you’re solving real problems, challenging outdated norms, or reshaping how this industry operates, we want to hear from you.

What happens when a marketing veteran builds PropTech from the inside out? In this episode of CRE Unplugged, Ryan sits down with David Abrams, Co-Founder and CEO of HILO, to unpack why the best building technology isn't the loudest it's the most thoughtful.David shares how 20+ years running a marketing and communications agency shaped HILO's obsession with partnership, service, and genuine tenant engagement. From launching right before the pandemic to scaling a platform that helps owners and operators deliver hospitality-driven workplace experiences, David's journey is a masterclass in building with purpose.Together, Ryan and David dig into what tenants actually value (hint: it's not the fancy fitness center), why PropTech can't be a checkbox, and how HILO's collaborative approach to sales and customer success is turning heads in one of the world's oldest asset classes.David also hosts TEN, the Tenant Experience Network, where he brings together leading CRE voices on the future of work and his vision for buildings that don't just support businesses, but help people truly thrive.Show Notes:00:10: Intro & Welcoming David Abrams 01:25: From Marketing & Communications to Founder06:14: Why a Great Tech Company is 50% Service07:44: The Metrics That Actually Matter in Building Technology11:00: How HILO Rises Above a Crowded PropTech Landscape13:00: The Collaborative Sales Process That Replaces the RFP17:00: What Tenants Actually Want vs. What the Industry Assumes19:28: The 15 Minute City and the Role of Neighborhood in Tenant Experience21:18: David's Vision for the Workplace 5 to 10 Years from Now28:05: Ryan's Postgame Recap & Key TakeawaysLove what you hear? Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform!Connect With Us📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: www.creunplugged.com📺 YouTube: @CREUnplugged💼 LinkedIn: CRE Unplugged📱 Instagram: @CREUnpluggedLearn more about HILO and their vertically integrated resident experience platform at www.hiloapp.com or connect with David directly on LinkedIn.Want to be featured on the Founders' Series? We're spotlighting bold leaders building the future of commercial real estate. Reach out at [email protected]’re always looking to spotlight bold leaders and founders who are building the future of commercial real estate. If you’re solving real problems, challenging outdated norms, or reshaping how this industry operates, we want to hear from you.

How a founder with no real estate experience built a vertically integrated platform now powering the future of multifamily living.A conversation on bootstrapping, resident expectations, and why the best PropTech founders stay close to customers.In this Founder Series episode, Ryan Elazari sits down with Konrad Koczwara, Founder and CEO of ElevateOS, to explore how he went from complete industry outsider to building the overtically integrated resident experience platform in multifamily real estate.Konrad shares why he bootstrapped ElevateOS without outside capital, how his Polish roots shaped his relentless work ethic, and why he stays deeply involved in sales and customer relationships as the company scales.The discussion covers the evolution of resident expectations, why today's renters demand hotel-like experiences, how AI is transforming multifamily technology, and strategies for generating revenue beyond rent. Konrad also reflects on co-chairing the Emerging Leaders program at RETTC and why integrated tech stacks matter for onsite teams managing disconnected platforms.Show Notes:00:10: Introducing Konrad Koczwara01:15 – Konrad's Polish heritage and how immigration shaped relentless work ethic04:42 – Leading by example: building a company from square one with no network09:42 – How resident expectations have evolved in the past 5-10 years13:36 – Key trends in multifamily tech: centralization, AI, and avoiding "Frankenstein buildings"17:57 – Why AI will make certain jobs irrelevant and what founders should know22:00 – Generating revenue beyond rent without resorting to junk fees26:43 – Why staying close to customers drives the best product roadmap32:38 – Co-chairing Emerging Leaders at RETTC and giving back to the industry36:03 – Ryan's Postgame Recap Love what you hear? Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform!Connect With Us📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: www.creunplugged.com📺 YouTube: @CREUnplugged💼 LinkedIn: CRE Unplugged📱 Instagram: @CREUnpluggedLearn more about ElevateOS and their vertically integrated resident experience platform at www.elevateos.com or connect with Konrad directly on LinkedIn.Want to be featured on the Founders' Series? We're spotlighting bold leaders building the future of commercial real estate. Reach out at [email protected]’re always looking to spotlight bold leaders and founders who are building the future of commercial real estate. If you’re solving real problems, challenging outdated norms, or reshaping how this industry operates, we want to hear from you.

Bill Douglas doesn't sugarcoat it: most CRE owners are sitting on a goldmine of data they don't control, don't understand, and can't monetize while vendors quietly profit from it.In this episode, the CEO of OpticWise and co-author of Peak Property Performance pulls back the curtain on the messy reality of digital strategy in commercial real estate. From buildings running 17 systems on 13 networks with zero integration, to property management firms recommending tech they've invested in without disclosure, Bill breaks down the conflicts of interest and missed opportunities that are costing owners millions.Bill also opens up about his near-death skiing experience, his wife's cancer battle, and why he lives by the motto: "Life is a gift. Work to live, don't live to work."If you've ever felt overwhelmed by vendor pitches, suspicious of PropTech promises, or unsure how to turn building data into actual NOI, this conversation will give you the framework to take control.Show Notes:0:10: Introducing Bill Douglas1:39: Skiing and fatherhood - the "truth serum" of ski lifts4:17: Why the CRE industry is at a critical crossroads8:23: Status quo bias and why owners wait for fines to act12:05: Case Study - 17 systems, $50K+ wasted, hidden savings15:47: The 5C method for digital strategy20:25: Dreamers on stage vs. doers in the audience24:50: The AI bubble and 12 critical questions for vendors37:08: Who should be the digital champion inside your firm?40:38: Why do firms ghost vendors then scramble last minute?47:31: How Bill unplugs and the gift of life52:07: "Busy doesn't mean successful" - rethinking work-life balance57:33: Ryan's takeawaysIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at ⁠www.creunplugged.com⁠ for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at ⁠@CREUnplugged1⁠ and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on⁠ LinkedIn ⁠and ⁠Instagram⁠!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, ⁠HILO⁠, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

How AI is transforming pre-construction, and why precision matters as much as speed in construction tech.A conversation on AI, risk reduction, and building durable software for real estate development.In this Founder Series episode, Ryan Elazari sits down with Paul Zeckser, Co-Founder and CEO of LightTable, to explore how AI is changing one of the most expensive and error-prone phases of real estate development: pre-construction.Drawing on decades of leadership experience, Paul shares why building the company later in his career shaped everything from product focus to pricing, and why precision is the real advantage in construction tech.The discussion spans the challenge of building vertical software as foundational models evolve, what it takes to earn adoption across developers, architects, and contractors, and why in-person collaboration still matters as the industry enters its next technology cycle.Show Notes: 00:00 – Introducing Paul Zeckser02:37 – Why building a company later in your career can be an advantage06:01 – Assembling teams with deep domain expertise08:33 – Leadership, transparency, and prioritizing goals over being liked10:16 – Why most construction problems originate in pre-construction15:40 – Can vertical solutions survive as foundation models evolve?20:37 – Why LightTable chose unlimited-user pricing over traditional SaaS24:05 – Being bullish on the office: collaboration, culture, and outcomes28:32 – CU Boulder, the Deming Center, and a full-circle founder moment31:10 – Postgame RecapIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!Interested in being featured on the Founders’ Series?We’re always looking to spotlight bold leaders and founders who are building the future of commercial real estate. If you’re solving real problems, challenging outdated norms, or reshaping how this industry operates, we want to hear from you.

In the debut of the Founders’ Series, Ryan and Nadine sit down with William Sankey, CEO of Northspyre, to unpack what it really takes to build a tech company inside one of the most conservative industries: commercial real estate.William shares the moment he knew he had to build Northspyre, the messy leap from idea to execution, and whether, after a decade of lessons, he would choose the founder path again. They explore hiring for intangibles, why CRE negotiates SaaS contracts like construction deals, and how developers succeed or stumble when pivoting into hot asset classes like data centers and affordable housing. He also highlights the industry shifts people are overlooking, from the real impact of AI to the regulatory pressures that will shape the future of development.If you want an unfiltered look at what it takes to build in CRE, this episode delivers.Show Notes: 00:10: Welcome to the Founders’ Series2:04: Introducing William Sankey2:31: “I have to build this”: William’s origin moment11:09: From idea to execution: the messy middle17:14: Would he become a founder again?21:30: Hiring for intangibles in an early-stage company30:44: Why negotiating SaaS contracts in CRE is so uniquely challenging34:40: Developers chasing “hot” asset classes: when it works and when it burns40:39: Underhyped shifts: AI, regulation, and capital47:14: Postgame Recap (actionable insights)50:06: Closing thoughts & where to reach usIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!Interested in being featured on the Founders’ Series?We’re always looking to spotlight bold leaders and founders who are building the future of commercial real estate. If you’re solving real problems, challenging outdated norms, or reshaping how the real estate industry operates, we want to hear from you.

Real estate’s future won’t be built by code alone. It will be built by people who know how to connect it all.In this episode of CRE Unplugged, Ryan Elazari sits down with Richard Reyes, CEO of OSCRE International and VP of Digital Strategy at ConnexFM, to discuss how data, culture, and collaboration are reshaping the built environment.From his Texas ranch roots to leading digital transformation across real estate, Richard shares how hard work and hands-on experience shaped his mission to “assemble people, not just systems.” He explains the idea behind a “smart data highway,” why culture, not technology, is the biggest barrier to innovation, and how events like FutureBuilt are breaking down silos between trades and technology.A grounded and inspiring conversation about leadership, digital strategy, the evolution of the built environment. Show Notes: 0:10: Introducing Richard Reyes 2:19: Texas roots and developing a strong work ethic 4:21: How his ranch upbringing shaped the man he is today6:30: Clean eating 7:29: “Assembler of people” 10:58: Data blind spots 15:40: Understanding culture within an organization 19:06: FutureBuilt, a ConnexFM Event 25:25: Advice for younger professionals in the world of AI 27:33: Are we seeing a future of more skilled laborers? 32:40: Shifting companies’ mindset toward data sharing35:34: How does Richard unplug? 41:22: Ryan’s takeaways If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.To learn more about the FutureBuilt event and how it’s bringing together leaders from across the built environment, visit futurebuilt.io.

Everyone loves to say retail is dead. Beth Azor is here to say: not so fast.In this episode, Nadine and Ryan sit down with the indomitable "Canvassing Queen" to break down why retail’s not dying, but rather, evolving. From the rise of “competitive socializing” and medtail to the real story behind retail occupancy rates, Beth brings receipts, red blazers, and a whole lot of truth.We talk through her famous 5 F’s driving tenant demand, why personal branding in CRE is less about polish and more about showing up, and how Twitter (yes, still Twitter) landed her great deals.Whether you're a retail skeptic or superfan, this conversation might just change how you see your local strip center.Show Notes:0:10: Introduction1:10: Nadine's launch of the CRE AI Studio, a new AI learning platform6:30: The REAL story on retail - it's not dead, it's just shifting 7:48: Introducing Beth Azor "The Canvassing Queen"8:15: The biggest myth about retail real estate13:00: The real story behind retail occupancy and sales 15:27: Beth's 5 "F's" of tenant demand18:25: The shifting narrative around shopping centers 21:40: "Competitive socializing" and its role in retail 25:04: The rise of "medtail" 30:47: Creative development tactics in challenging times34:44: The impact of cannabis on retail; are we in a bubble? 39:40: Tips to leveraging social media in CRE45:09: The birth of "The Canvassing Queen"49:35: Personal branding in CRE 53:42: How does Beth unplug? If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at ⁠⁠creunplugged.com⁠⁠ for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at ⁠⁠@CREUnplugged1⁠⁠ and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, ⁠⁠HILO⁠⁠, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

What if the real fix for America’s housing challenges isn’t just more supply, but better-designed towns?In this episode, Nadine and Ryan sit down with Casey Roloff, the visionary behind Seabrook, Washington, a walkable coastal town built from scratch on the principles of New Urbanism. From starting with a $500 land option and a cold-calling hustle, Casey shares how his early experiences shaped a mission to build places that prioritize people over cars.They explore why free “third places” are the social infrastructure we overlook, how zoning and capital markets make human-scale communities harder to replicate, and what developers often miss when trying to foster authentic connection. Casey also shares lessons from studying towns abroad, what he’d do differently if he built Seabrook today, and why the future of housing may look a lot more like the past.This episode is for anyone rethinking what livability actually means and how to build communities that feel like home from day one.Show Notes:0:10: Introduction1:30: Best practices for the conference circuit 9:17: Why we need a different kind of town?11:02:  How growing up with limited resources inspired Casey Roloff to build a new kind of town 19:20: From painting houses for college tuition to designing and building houses 25:35:  Let’s build a town! New Urbanism and Seaside, FL26:20:  The birth of cars and the death of town building 29:35: From vision to reality; designing the town Casey wanted to live in 37:05: The biggest misstep in modern day American developments42:15: What policy updates are needed to bring back the art of town building48:26: Striking the balance between effective town building and technology55:00: Drawing inspiration from international travels for domestic town building 59:39:  A preview of Casey’s Blueprint talk 1:00:46 How does Casey unplug? If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at ⁠creunplugged.com⁠ for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at ⁠@CREUnplugged1⁠ and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on⁠ LinkedIn⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, ⁠HILO⁠, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

In this special episode, the gang break down three policy shifts with major implications for real estate. We start with Trump’s AI Action Plan, which fast-tracks data center, semiconductor, and energy infrastructure development. Next, we cover Boston’s proposed driverless car ban and its clash between job protection and innovation, a decision that could set a precedent for AV deployment nationwide. We then dive into NYC’s property tax imbalance, discussing proposals to ease the burden on multifamily housing and encourage new development. Insightful, fast-paced, and capped off with a fun "Real Estate Family Feud" showdown. Show Notes:0:10: Introduction 1:27: The White House AI Action Plan 15:02: Boston's ban of driverless cars 27:23: Property Tax Burden on Multifamily in NYC36:27: Real Estate Family Feud If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com and www.thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

We sit down with Sandhya Espitia, COO of REBNY, to explore how the $1.4 trillion industry is reshaping New York. From Local Law 97 and retrofits to debunking the “developer as villain” myth, Sandhya highlights real estate’s role as a civic partner in keeping NYC livable and competitive. We cover her journey from Colombia to COO, why most real estate tech company fail in NYC, and how she balances tradition with diversity, innovation, and public trust. Whether you’re navigating sustainability mandates, curious about policy, or figuring out how to break into NYC real estate, this conversation is a crash course in how the city really works.Show Notes: 0:10: Ryan goes suburban, Nadine goes nomadic2:42: Taking our show to Blueprint! 3:40: NYC’s complex real estate landscape5:25: Sandhya’s path from Colombia to powering REBNY10:48: REBNY’s commitment to housing, sustainability, and safety13:10: Reviving REBNY’s 1980s ties with NYC Government15:45: The Impact of the FARE ACT 21:10: How to overcome challenges of adopting tech in NYC 34:10: Advancing Sustainability through NYC’s LL9739:46: Honoring heritage, embracing diversity48:20: Biggest Threat to NYC Real Estate? 53:44: Sandhya’s Panel at Blueprint! 55:56: How does Sandhya unplug? 1:00:39: Nadine & Ryan’s Takeaways Have thoughts or suggestions? If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.Join us at Blueprint! As a friend of CRE Unplugged, you can save $300 on your All-Access pass. You can register here: https://lnkd.in/esyyxX82

The crew kicks things off with a fiery debate on NYC’s shifting political tides, unpacking Zohran Mamdani’s stunning victory over Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic mayoral primary. They dive into what this means for commercial real estate, and whether being labeled a “socialist” still sparks fear or just change. From there, the gang shifts gears to explore the current state of CRE fundraising, dissecting who's still raising, where capital is flowing, and why LP sentiment might be turning a corner. Then it’s on to the evolving education landscape within the industry, as more professionals seek alternative pathways to level up their skills. The episode wraps with a laugh-out-loud round of Proptech Price is Right, where Brad and Nadine go head-to-head guessing recent funding rounds, some close, some wildly off.Show Notes: 0:10: Intro0:42: NYC housing implications of Zohan Mamdani's primary win20:42: Current and forecasted state of fundraising within commercial real estate 27:25: Evolving trends in education within commercial real estate 38:45: Update from David Abrams, CEO of HILO46:24: Proptech Price is Right!If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com and www.thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

In this episode of CRE Unplugged, we’re going retail and we’ve got the perfect guide. Nick Harbaugh, VP International at Flexecution and the creator of The Retail Nomad on YouTube, joins us to unpack the evolving world of brick-and-mortar across continents. With over 200,000 locations under his belt and more than 200 videos capturing retail trends worldwide, Nick blends hands-on expertise with an eye for storytelling.We dive into Nick’s unlikely origin story (spoiler: it started with getting kicked out of engineering school), his pivot to project management and entrepreneurship, and why he moved to Costa Rica to launch a global retail media brand before it was cool. From tech-enabled storefronts to cross-cultural insights, Nick breaks down what makes physical retail matter in a digital-first world and why “honoring your authenticity” might be the best strategy of all.Show Notes: 0:10: Nadine is back in Boston and Ryan’s big move3:31: Ryan recaps the IMN’s AI in Real Estate Event 7:09: Introducing Nick Harbaugh 9:20: Nick’s unconventional background in real estate 12:04: Learnings from real estate growth in the mid 90s/early 2000s 16:52: The launch of “The Retail Nomad” 18:50: What drives Nick to hit record? 21:38: Retail culture across borders 26:45: “Tech drives bricks”31:00: Which video really struck a chord with viewers?32:15: Building and trusting his retail community 34:30: The secrets to cost savings 39:06: Retail in Latin America and Europe 43:08: Innovations in retail 44:47: Why is Nick moving to Europe? 46:50: “Honoring your authenticity” and advice to young professionals 50:00: The future of retail 51:00: How does Nick unplug? 54:57: Nadine and Ryan’s takeawaysIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

The gang explores how niche assets like data centers, healthcare housing, and music buildings are creating new opportunities for investors seeking resilient, high-yield returns. They break down the capital market forces driving these sectors, examine signals of a possible recession, and debate New York City’s ambitious Local Law 97 and its impact on building owners. The episode wraps with a fun round of Real Estate Tech Survivor, where our hosts weigh in on which technologies are built to last.Show Notes: 0:10: Intro0:43: The Rise of Investments in Niche Assets 13:30: Are We Heading into a Recession? 22:40: Ryan and Brad debate NYC’s Local Law 97 (carbon emissions limits for buildings)35:49: HILO Highlights- David’s time in Western Canada and the importance of customer service 47:30: Real Estate Tech Survivor If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com and www.thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

What does the next chapter of real estate tech really look like? We sit down with Alon Gorbonos, founder of RE Angels and veteran of the global investing scene, for a candid convo on the evolution of venture capital, the AI-fueled startup wave, and what it actually takes to scale innovation in a tighter, tougher CRE market. From PropTech to ConTech to FinTech (and a few dad jokes in between), we unpack where tech meets traction—and why the smartest bets are getting smaller, scrappier, and more sustainable.Show notes: 0:11: Nadine and Ryan Intro 5:45: AI lowers barriers for startups7:15: Welcome Alon Gorbonos7:52: Alon’s journey from McKinsey to fund founder 14:42: Prediction’s for CRE’s digital transformation21:23: Contech, FinTech, PropTech: who’s underfunded? 25:00: Bottom up or top down? Adoption insights for Contech28:44: Transformation of current construction roles34:50: Impact of AI on traditional VC model39:47: Qualities of an agile VC42:38: Real estate trends to keep an eye on49:00: How Alon unplugs? 50:45: Where would Alon be if not in VC? 54:10: HILO commercial break 55:39: Ryan and Nadine’s recap If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

In this CRE Unplugged x Thesis Driven crossover, Ryan, Nadine, and Brad unpack the ripple effects of newly imposed tariffs and the fresh wave of uncertainty hitting the market. They dig into the hype (and reality) of reshoring manufacturing—and whether bringing production back home could actually reshape industrial demand and CRE investment strategy.As hybrid work continues to win out over return-to-office mandates, the crew explores how this shift is rewriting the rules on office usage, workplace design, and company culture. Then it’s onto the rise of bootstrapped tech: with AI, no-code tools, and dirt-cheap infrastructure, will more owners start building their own solutions from scratch?And yes, Nadine jumps into her first real estate snake draft—making bold picks across asset classes and talking big picture bets for 2025. From macro headwinds to innovation tailwinds, this one’s a sharp take on what’s really moving the market.Show Notes: 0:10: Intro0:40: How are the Tariffs currently affecting the real estate market?14:08: The impact of the decreasing cost of building technology 28:01: Hybrid Work is prevailing as RTO Mandates struggle to gain ground 41:24: HILO Highlights: David Abrams discusses his latest guests on TEN and his new blog about how CX is changing the workplace? 47:30: Real estate categories draft If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com and www.thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

The construction industry is evolving fast—and at the center of it all is the race to build smarter, faster, and more responsibly.In this episode of CRE Unplugged, hosts Nadine Ezzie and Ryan Elazari sit down with Josh Hullum, Executive Director of Construction at Affinius Capital to unpack how teams are navigating grid constraints, shrinking carbon footprints, and making smarter bets on materials and markets.Josh shares how his team cut embodied carbon by 40% on a California industrial park, why mass timber and wellness are more than trends, and how data centers are colliding with the limits of our power infrastructure.From AI-driven design to the green premium, this episode is a playbook for building better—without compromise.Show Notes:0:10: Nadine and Ryan share life updates 4:48: The fast evolution of the construction industry6:10: Introducing Josh Hullum8:55: Josh’s career journey 12:46: Challenges to building Data Centers 16:55: Primary markets for Data Centers/The availability & race to power19:59: What’s fueling demand in the industrial sector and where the next opportunities lie.22:23: Josh highlights a development project he’s proud of—and what's making it a success.30:55: How Affinius is utilizing AI? 32:08: “The Green Premium”35:59: Staying motivated when facing market or project challenges38:21: “The Perfect Building” 44:18: Advice to entering the CRE industry47:22: How does Josh Unplug? 53:45: Nadine & Ryan’s Takeaways If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn and Instagram!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.#commercialrealestate #sustainabledevelopment #innovation #buildingthefuture

In this episode of the CRE Unplugged x Thesis Driven collab series, Nadine, Ryan, and Brad dive into four hot-button issues shaking up U.S. cities—and the real estate world. We continue to unpack NYC’s embattled congestion pricing plan (with a surprise Trump twist), break down Cambridge’s landmark rezoning and its impact on housing affordability, and ask the big question: why are mayors of America’s top cities floundering? Plus, we cut through the noise on the return-to-office wave and what it really means for commercial real estate.Whether you're in real estate, urban policy, or just want to understand the forces reshaping our cities, this power session is your pulse check.Show Notes: 0:10: Intro0:47: Congestion Pricing Part 2 / Trump Weighs In11:59: Cambridge, MA landmark Upzoning and affordable housing policy20:18: Tanking approval ratings for major U.S. city mayors and the impact on development28:33: HILO Highlights: David discusses CBRE/Industrious deal and value creation in CRE 36:04: Uptick in RTO buzz: actual shift or CEO posturing? If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com and www.thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

Nadine and Ryan sit down with Susan Gerock, CIO of Elme Communities and one of the most respected voices in multifamily tech, to cut through the noise and get real about what’s actually moving the needle in real estate technology. From the one tech investment smaller firms can’t afford to skip to how applying a hospitality mindset to multifamily is reshaping the industry, Susan brings sharp insights and hard-earned lessons on aligning innovation with strategy. She also tackles cybersecurity risks, marketing tech madness, and the biggest mistakes in tech adoption (so you don’t have to learn the hard way)—plus, she shares what happens when a tech rollout goes sideways, and how to course-correct like a pro. Plus, we explore her passion for diversity and inclusion in real estate through initiatives like Real Talk and her work with 826DC. Smart insights, candid takes, and a few laughs along the way—don’t miss this one. Show Notes: 0:10: Intro / February’s all about the birthdays 5:20: The latest on multifamily 7:10: Introducing Susan Gerock8:03: Susan’s career journey14;24: What is Susan’s favorite asset class?15:07: The role of CIO and aligning real estate tech with a company’s goals 18:39: Leveraging tech to enhance tenant experience and retention 21:43: Hospitality driving the multifamily experience23:53: The state of marketing tech within multifamily 31:07: Common mistakes in tech rollouts34:36: Tech implementation gone wrong38:55: Tech recommendations for smaller CRE companies 43:55: Are we doing enough to protect our data?50:22: Biggest CRE data blind spot54:17: Susan’s vote for the one to watch real estate tech59:20: Susan’s involvement in RealTalk and 826DC1:07:56: How does Susan “unplug”

In the first episode of this special collaboration series, Nadine and Ryan are joined by none other than Brad Hargreaves, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Thesis Driven and a sharp voice on all things real estate and urbanism. Together, we dive into the biggest trends shaping commercial real estate—from NYC’s congestion pricing and its ripple effects to the rise of exurbs and new cities designed for the next generation.We also preview upcoming real estate events that are worth watching in 2024. And to top it off, Brad puts Nadine and Ryan to the test with a hilarious game of “PropTech Company or Prog Metal Band?” (Trust us, some of these names will surprise you.Tune in for sharp insights, bold predictions, and definitely a few laughs.Show Notes: 0:10: Kickoff 0:37: Introducing Brad Hargreaves 3:03: Breakdown of 2025 real estate/proptech events10:40: NYC congestion pricing policy showdown27:52: The rise of exburbs and new cities40:24: Introducing David Abrams, CEO of HILO & Host of TEN 45:21: Proptech company or Progmetal band? If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Be sure to visit our website at creunplugged.com and thesisdriven.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!This episode is sponsored by our awesome partner, HILO, making connectivity and engagement a breeze in commercial real estate.

What does it take to lead a cutting-edge research and analytics team in one of the biggest names in industrial real estate? Everything—and then some. On this episode, Nadine and Ryan welcome Matt Rand, Managing Director of Research and Analytics at Link Logistics, for a no-holds-barred conversation about leadership, legacy, and data. Matt spills the secrets on mastering the "build vs. buy" tech dilemma, and tackling change management head-on. He breaks down the communication barriers between real estate pros and data scientists and shares his strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome in an ever-evolving industry. Discover what Matt’s goals are for 2025, and don’t miss his take on how to measure success and the legacy he’s working to leave behind in the real estate world. This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and inspiration you won’t want to miss. Tune in now and get ready to level up your mindset! Episode Notes: 0:24: Happy New Year!/Intro 4:16: 2025 predictions 8:28: Data analytics 101 10:27: Welcome, Matt Rand! / Matt’s 2025 goals 12:41: Matt’s career journey; from journalism to data analytics 20:49: Build vs buy technology; how Link Logistics decides  23:50: The role of data analytics at Link; where AI will come in 29:44: Running analog vs digital when implementing new tech 32:42: Matt’s approach to change management  41:18: The communication gap between practitioners and data scientists 45:50: How does Matt deal with imposter syndrome and cognitive dissonance? 52:50: Measuring success  55:06: What legacy does Matt want to leave behind?  58:58: Nadine & Ryan’s takeaways 

What do biophysics, customer experience, and co-working have in common? Anna Squires Levine, Chief Customer Officer at Industrious, connects the dots in this insightful episode of CRE Unplugged! Join Nadine and Ryan as they explore the evolution of co-working spaces, the traits that truly define great leadership, and how to measure the "desirability" of a space. Anna dives into the groundbreaking Industrious/Delta partnership, her vision for the future of the office, and how technology is shaping customer-centric real estate. Anna’s candid advice and key career lessons are not to be missed. Plus, hear about Anna’s personal interests (Survivor, anyone?) and hear Nadine and Ryan’s witty takeaways from this dynamic conversation. Tune in for an episode packed with fresh insights on co-working, leadership, and designing spaces that truly work for people. Perfect for real estate enthusiasts, workplace strategists, and anyone curious about the intersection of hospitality and real estate. Show notes: 0:10: Intro / Holiday season do’s and don’ts! 5:20: The evolution and future of co-working 7:25: Introducing Anna Squires Levine! 8:45: From biophysics to real estate: Anna’s incredible career journey 15:06: The traits of a good leader (spoiler: it’s not what you think) 19:03: Measuring the desirability of a place 22:54: Tips for real estate companies on how to focus on customer experience 25:07: The birth of the Industrious / Delta partnership 28:06: Anna’s take on the future role of office 36:09: How Industrious uses technology to further its goals 42:30: Anna's guidance on breaking into the built environment industry 47:00: The power of experience 50:23: Anna reflects on the key lessons from her career 56:00: How does Anna spend her downtime? 1:01:12: Nadine and Ryan’s takeaways If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve! Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

What happens when a political strategist trades campaigns for coding? You get Michael Broder, CEO of RCKRBX™, and his mission to revolutionize multifamily real estate with tenant-driven data. In this episode of CRE Unplugged, Ryan and Nadine uncover how RCKRBX is turning tenant preferences into the ultimate cheat sheet for owners and operators. Think predictive analytics, actionable insights, and a crystal ball for asset performance—minus the mysticism. Michael spills the tea on his journey from the halls of GWU (cue the nostalgia) to launching a groundbreaking SaaS platform during a global pandemic. Along the way, he dishes on his pitch-perfect strategy, what AI means for PropTech, and why multifamily trends are more than just buzzwords. As always, Ryan and Nadine bring their trademark humor and insights, including a nostalgic dive into Michael’s college days at GWU and a candid discussion on his hobbies like Formula 1 and his love for the Red Sox. Show Notes: 00:21: Introduction 10:58: The necessity of understanding multifamily trends 12:18: Michael and Ryan reminisce about D.C. college days 17:02: From political strategist to PropTech founder 25:31: RCKRBX’s data product tools for multifamily 34:00: Is RCKRBX disrupting CRE? 39:05: Launching a product during COVID 46:56: The power of the right pitch strategy 55:37: PropTech outlook in the age of AI 1:05:33: Michael Broder “Unplugged” 1:09:21: Life lessons from Michael 1:13:56: Commercial break 1:15:24: Nadine and Ryan’s recap If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve! Be sure to visit our website at www.creunplugged.com for all the latest news and updates. Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

In this episode of CRE Unplugged, we sit down with Brent Williams, Chief Insider at Multifamily Insiders, fresh from his panels at Blueprint Vegas. Brent dives into his career journey, the inspiration behind Multifamily Insiders, and what’s on the horizon for the platform. We tackle tech adoption, including barriers, opportunities, and how data can personalize the resident experience. Brent also shares his vision for tech innovation over the next five years and tips for future-proofing operations. His passion for residential goes well beyond the apartment sector. Brent tells us how he loves to unplug by touring our country’s greatest displays of residential architecture with his family. Be sure to tune in to hear from one of multifamily’s greatest “community” builders!SHOW NOTES: 1:05: Blueprint Vegas recap/Ryan stayed behind!9:20: Why today’s guest10:03: Intro to Brent Williams10:29: Brent’s Blueprint recap13:05: Need for MF tech “communication hub”14:43: Brent’s career journey and starting Multifamily Insiders18:00: Next 12 months for Multifamily Insiders20:47: Multifamily Insider’s connection role after Demo Days22:59: Brent’s take on barriers to MF tech adoption25:25: Tech’s role in enhancing community engagement30:50: Data’s role in boosting tenant retention34:39: Brent’s take on why data is not being widely used in tenant retention38:20: Future of tech in the MF space42:45: How MF operators can remain “future proof”46:56: How does Brent “unplug?"49:14: Brent shares his community building tips with the audience54:52: Nadine and Ryan's RecapIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

On this episode of CRE Unplugged, we sit down with Mead Rusert, VP and GM of Building Technologies at Carrier. With over 30 years of experience under his (tool)belt, Mead’s the man behind the controls at Carrier’s Automated Logic, where he’s basically the maestro of everything that isn’t HVAC.Why should you listen? Because smarter buildings equal smarter people—or at least more productive ones. From hiking treks in New Mexico with a bunch of teenage boys (seriously, the guy’s brave) to leading cutting-edge innovations at Carrier, Mead walks us through his career and why building technology isn’t just about wires and sensors—it’s about making life better for the people inside those buildings.We also ask the million-dollar questions: Have property owners finally wised up since COVID about better building environments? Is indoor air quality the secret sauce for worker productivity? And how is AI shaking things up in the building world?Mead shares some killer advice for those wanting to break into the industry, reveals what he wishes his younger self knew, and tells us how he manages to “unplug”—because even the king of smart buildings needs downtime. Oh, and he gives us a sneak peek at what he’ll be discussing at Blueprint (spoiler alert: it’s going to be good).Show Notes: 1:01: Intro banter / Ryan’s love of Gipsy Kings and Nadine crowd surfs5:30: Why listening to Mead matters today7:03: Intro to Mead and his New Mexico hiking trek with teenage boys8:58: Mead walks us through his career journey12:34: “Making Buildings Better Through Building Technology”16:52: Have property owners' mindsets shifted since COVID on better building environments?18:58: Deep dive into the different building technology Carrier offers26:30: Mead highlights a key benefit of using the right building technology 29:37: Does indoor air quality impact worker productivity? 32:57: AI’s impact on building technology35:18: Mead offers advice for entering the building technology industry.38:07: What advice would Mead give his younger self? 39:04: How does Mead “unplug”?40:24: What will Mead be discussing at Blueprint?44:06: Nadine and Ryan wrap it all up!If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CRE Unplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

In this episode, we sit down with none other than Spencer Levy, Global Client Strategist and Senior Economic Advisor for CBRE, the largest commercial real estate services firm in the world. In this role, he focuses on client engagement and public-facing activities, including thought leadership work performed in conjunction with CBRE Research. He also serves as Co-Chair of the Real Estate Roundtable’s Research Committee. Spencer has 27 years of experience in commercial real estate, including the past 15 at CBRE. In this time, he has served as a lawyer, investment banker, capital markets and senior research leader. Spencer is frequently quoted in major business publications and appears on business television, including CNBC, CNN, Bloomberg, PBS and Fox Business. Spencer is also the host of CBRE’s podcast “The Weekly Take.” He is considered one of the most insightful commentators on issues of importance to commercial real estate. Throughout our conversation, Spencer shares his deep insights on several pressing topics in the industry, from the role of innovative solutions for affordable housing and the improvement of public schools to how he sees AI transforming institutional grade real estate and everything in between. Spencer also dives into the importance of how mastering both the technical and communication aspects of real estate are the keys to having a stellar career (he would know!) He gives an inside look to his hobbies and how they relate to real estate investing. People like Spencer don’t come along often and the real estate industry is truly lucky to have him, making this episode a must-listen for anyone.Show Notes: 0:30: Nadine enjoys cheap Midwest summers / Ryan reveals his criminal record to this family.4:00: Why we invited today’s guest5:25: Into to Spencer Levy 6:55: Why Spencer is known as the “Johnny Cash of Real Estate”11:00: How affordable housing and public schools go hand-in-hand15:35: Keys to converting office buildings to multi-family housing18:00: Impact of China’s decreasing population on the industrial sector22:50: Making cities as “attractive” as possible for investment and growth26:38: Risk of reliance on technology and the future of predictive analytics 35:09: Potential implications for the future of data storage and processing 37:12: Why communicating persuasively is critical in CRE 44:48: Spencer shares his hobbies52:51: Postgame Recap If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CREUnplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

In this much anticipated episode, we sit down with industry visionary Lisa Picard, a commercial real estate pioneer with a resume longer than a CVS receipt. With two MIT degrees, Lisa curated an incomparable career path from EVP at Skanska to CEO of EQ Office, to now emerging out of stealth mode with her next venture (which she reveals exclusively with us!). Lisa shares how cycling is her metaphor for life, inspiring her to stay the course one step at a time. Lisa is widely known and revered for her incredible ability to design office spaces that inspire the people that occupy them. We go deep into how innovation will enable smaller companies to take on the goliaths of the industry and tips on how to effectively deploy technology (hint: don’t pull the plug on your existing ways too fast!) If you don’t think value lies in coming into the office, you might want to think again after Lisa walks us through the learning that can happen when you stay close to leadership. We wrap it up with Lisa’s advice she would give to younger Lisa. Tune in for wisdom and laughs from one of the industry’s greatest!Show Notes:0:10: Ryan and Nadine’s summer adventures / PropTech Competition recap10:35: Introducing Lisa Picard11:00: The impact of cycling on Lisa's life20:01: Lisa's career journey31:08: How innovation can level the playing field / reveal of her next venture, Oxygen33:53: Lisa’s perspective on the office market / the payoff for staying close to leadership44:48: Creating future spaces for work that inspire collaboration / constant learning47:30: Skills needed by workers in today's world1:00:52: How innovation creates new asset classes1:19:45: Lisa's advice to her younger self1:25:16: Postgame recapIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at @CREUnplugged1 and be sure to follow CREUnplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

In this episode, we had an absolute blast chatting with Bob Gillespie, Managing Partner of REACH Commercial, the commercial fund of Second Century Ventures, and let us tell you, it's a ride you don't want to miss! Even though he’s no longer a stand-up comedian, Bob is a testament to the power of humor and public speaking when pitching new ideas and solutions. Think of it as stand-up comedy with a dash of TED Talk brilliance! For those of you in career limbo, fret not. Our guest shares golden advice on how to tackle what he calls the painful “waiting game” between professional moves. Instead of agonizing over LinkedIn notifications and making the right decision, why not learn a new skill? And speaking of trends, if you’re wanting to know how to create a winning solution in PropTech, Bob walks us through the key of taking something that’s dumb, slow, and expensive, and turning it into something smart, fast, and cheap.Want to hear more controversial takes from Bob? Be sure to listen to learn more! 🎧Show Notes:0:10: Nadine's new lifestyle and Ryan's past criminal life7:20: Introducing Bob Gillespie9:50: Bob's career journey23:26: How to tackle the "waiting space"30:18: Latest PropTech solutions40:15: Necessary changes to real estate innovation45:05: Bob's advice to young CRE professionals + his take on ClimateTech53:32: Bob's move to Costa Rica57:42: Postgame recapIf you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at  @CREUnplugged1  and be sure to follow CREUnplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!

On this inaugural episode of "CRE Unplugged," we sit down with Mollie Eisler, VP of Innovation and Technology for Almanac Realty Investors and explore the intersection between real estate, AI, and humans. Mollie takes us on her career journey starting in hospitality, highlighting the essential skill of relationship building (critical in real estate!) We then discusses whether people should fear for AI coming for their jobs (Mollie says no but with a twist). AI is great for automating repetitive tasks and processing large amounts of data, but innovation, creativity, and collaboration? Not so much; that's where us humans still shine. Mollie explains how by relying on the science of AI plus the creativity of humans, the real estate industry can become more flexible, allowing it to respond (and predict) faster and better for our ever-changing world. Is a human renaissance on the horizon? We think so; so be sure to listen to learn more. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future ones! Hit the subscribe button to stay updated with our latest content.If you love what you hear, please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us grow and improve!Have thoughts or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a line at [email protected] to our YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@creunplugged1?feature=shared and be sure to follow CREUnplugged on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and X!