The Dealmakers’ Edge with A.Y. Strauss

Adam Steinberg is a Principal at Ackman-Ziff Real Estate Group, where he co-heads the equity business and chairs the equity approval committee. Since joining in 2004, Adam has focused exclusively on raising common equity for clients, closing transactions aggregating billions of dollars of capital across traditional and alternative asset classes.Prior to Ackman-Ziff, Adam spent four years as a principal at Partners Group, investing on behalf of an opportunity fund. Before that, he helped build a capital markets group at AEW Capital Management and worked as a capital advisor at Boston Financial Group, which was later acquired by Lend Lease.Adam began his real estate career as a financial analyst in the real estate group at Salomon Brothers during the early 1990s. He holds a degree from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Cornell University.Insights from Adam Steinberg on Raising Common Equity When Ackman-Ziff's equity team evaluates a new assignment, the first question isn't whether the deal is good. It's whether they can win. Adam Steinberg and his partners treat time the way other firms treat capital. It's the scarce resource, and every deal that comes through the door gets measured against the probability of getting it done.The process starts with investors. Before sourcing deals, Adam's team goes to equity partners first, asking what's on their shortlist and what they can actually get through their investment committee. That investor-first approach has pushed the practice into alternative asset classes like powered land, clustered student housing, and solar and battery storage, where risk-adjusted returns are more compelling than in traditional deals.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron Strauss and Adam Steinberg discuss how the equity advisory business has evolved over two decades, why common equity is harder to raise than preferred, what it takes to get a deal done, and how sponsors can position themselves to attract institutional capital for the first time.3:18 - First real estate job as a financial analyst at Salomon Brothers during the early nineties recession4:23 - Three lessons from Salomon Brothers that still drive how he works today5:36 - Cornell, investment sales, and building a capital markets group at AEW7:30 - Joining Ackman-Ziff in 2004 and growing the equity business10:17 - How the practice evaluates deals and why time is the scarce resource13:06 - Common equity versus preferred and mezzanine15:04 - Reverse engineering deal flow by going to investors first18:22 - Programmatic versus one-off deals and what a successful program requires21:41 - When to stay with friends-and-family capital and when to move to institutional23:26 - Using a recapitalized asset as a seed deal for an institutional partner26:24 - Where the common equity market stands today30:47 - Finding the mental break that forces you fully off the dealMentioned In Raising Common Equity and Building an Investor-First Practice with Adam SteinbergAckman-Ziff Real Estate Group | LinkedInAdam Steinberg on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Cannabis is showing up in more CRE conversations than ever, and most of the people having those conversations are figuring it out as they go. The asset class looks familiar enough on the surface that standard deal instincts seem to apply. They rarely do.Jennifer Cabrera and Sahar Ayinehsazian have guided landlords, lenders, and investors through enough of these deals to know where the assumptions break down. The financing options exist but require a different approach to find. The regulatory framework is specific enough that getting local counsel early changes outcomes. And the market is maturing in ways that are creating real opportunity for the people paying attention.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron Strauss is joined by Jennifer Cabrera and Sahar Ayinehsazian to discuss what landlords need to know before signing a cannabis lease, how lenders are approaching cannabis-related properties, and where the real opportunities are as more state markets mature. For a deeper dive into the regulatory outlook for the year ahead, Jennifer and Sahar are hosting a webinar on April 21st.3:09 - Retail leasing trends and what makes a cannabis-zoned property valuable5:01 - The landlord, lender, and tenant triangle and why transparency with your lender matters8:08 - How to find a bank willing to finance a cannabis-related property9:45 - Financing options for operators and sponsors without institutional backing13:35 - What a cannabis lease actually needs to cover and why standard counsel isn't enough16:03 - Local approval in New Jersey and why planning boards get it wrong19:07 - Building lease exit provisions for regulatory surprises outside anyone's control20:42 - Default post-occupancy and the opportunity a departing cannabis tenant can leave behind23:31 - Why cannabis operators have no bankruptcy protection and what landlords should plan for instead25:56 - The unlicensed market problem and what happened in Los Angeles30:13 - Landlord liability for unlicensed cannabis tenants31:36 - Advertising restrictions for cannabis and what billboard and signage owners need to know34:08 - When to call cannabis counsel and what it actually costs to wait37:29 - Market maturation, the liquor store model, and the hemp beverage loophole closing41:21 - Why market maturation is improving the quality of cannabis investment opportunitiesMentioned In Cannabis Law and Commercial Real Estate with Jennifer Cabrera and Sahar AyinehsazianA.Y. Strauss | LinkedInJennifer Cabrera on LinkedInSahar Ayinehsazian on LinkedInSign up for the April 21st webinar - A.Y. Strauss Presents: The 2026 Cannabinoid Compass: Legal, Compliance & Regulatory ConcernsEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Derrick Barker is the co-founder and CEO of Nectar, a real estate tech financing company that provides liquidity to commercial real estate sponsors across the country. Nectar has completed more than 140 deals across 29 states, deploying over $40 million to lower middle market and middle market operators who need access to equity trapped in their existing assets.After leaving Goldman Sachs, Derrick built his real estate portfolio to more than 4,700 units and $400 million in asset value across multiple brands, including Civitas Communities, a multifamily platform focused on transforming distressed assets into quality housing, and DOMOS Co-Living, a co-living concept renting larger units by the room.Derrick began buying real estate from his dorm room at Harvard, where he also founded a student organization connected to Wall Street that became his first major business success. After graduating, he spent three years trading complex securities at Goldman Sachs while simultaneously building a 500-unit portfolio in his hometown of Atlanta before leaving to focus on real estate full time.Derrick Barker on Multifamily Growth and Tech-First LendingWhen Derrick Barker was four days from his earnest money going non-contingent on a Koreatown property, his lender came back short. He had equity sitting across his portfolio at 40% and 50% leverage. He didn't want to refinance. There was no clean way to access it without tripping a covenant. That's the problem Nectar exists to solve.Building Nectar meant becoming a technology company first. Derrick went through Techstars, built AI-native processes from the ground up, and created tools his borrowers use to run their businesses more efficiently. The platform is built to provide both data and liquidity to commercial real estate operators.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron Strauss and Derrick Barker discuss how he built a multifamily portfolio while trading at Goldman, how Nectar is structured to give sponsors access to trapped equity without tripping existing loan covenants, and why relationships matter more in the age of AI than they ever have.1:44 - Starting his first business at Harvard and how it connected to Wall Street3:14 - What it felt like walking onto Goldman's trading floor right after the crisis5:37 - Why rebuilding the community he grew up in drove his early real estate bets6:59 - What the Civitas model was built on and why distressed assets were hiding demand8:07 - How DOMOS Co-Living came out of watching single people navigate shared apartments11:29 - Being four days from non-contingent earnest money when his lender came back short13:01 - Why Nectar had to be a technology company 15:39 - Running businesses with his wife since college and what makes it work17:54 - Why he anchors his identity outside of the next success19:52 - Keeping his personal life low leverage and cash flowing while taking big swings21:26 - Why relationships matter more in the age of AI and advice for anyone starting outNectar | Nectar LinkedIn Derrick Barker on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Purpose-built student housing wasn't always an institutional asset class. When Jared was tracking the sector in college, two public companies dominated it and most developers hadn't touched it. His first deal in Syracuse required staking out an unresponsive seller on his morning commute just to get a conversation going — and delivered 40% net returns in 18 months when it sold to a publicly traded company.From that first project, deal sizes have grown from $18 million to $100 million-plus, and the capital stack has evolved alongside them. What started with friends-and-family money has shifted toward institutional partnerships as the sector matured and larger players began paying attention. Aptitude has stayed ahead of that curve by sourcing deals directly, doing the heavy lifting on underwriting before ever approaching a capital partner, and being selective about the markets worth betting on.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron and Jared discuss how he broke into student housing before institutions cared about it, why large state schools are the only markets worth betting on long term, how to design buildings that hold up against 18-to-22-year-old tenants, and the mindset that keeps him steady through the volatility of development.1:20 - Falling into real estate by accident and discovering entrepreneurship through development7:19 - The eight-month pursuit of a seller that launched Aptitude’s first project11:15 - The importance of disciplined land basis and refusing to “lie to yourself” in underwriting13:58 - Scaling from friends-and-family capital to institutional partnerships18:10 - The set-up of Aptitude’s executive team and launching an in-house management platform without team bloat23:19 - Why student housing is operationally intense, but fundamentally durable, and designing for durability with 18-22 year old tenants28:23 - Competition within the student housing asset class and why large state universities represent a long-term bet on enrollment stability33:06 - Creating liquidity through quality construction and long-term market selection34:19 - Jared’s resilient mindset for when things aren’t going wellMentioned In Pioneering Student Housing and Scaling a Development Business with Jared HutterAptitude Development | LinkedInJared Hutter on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Jeff Gronning is the CEO of Cannon Hill Capital Partners, a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm formed through a management-led buyout of the investment management business of Columbia Property Trust. Prior to founding Cannon Hill, Jeff served as Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer at Columbia Property Trust.Before Columbia, Jeff spent 15 years at Normandy Real Estate Partners, where he co-led the growth of a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm. Prior to Normandy, he served as CFO of Morgan Stanley's real estate investing division.Insights from Jeff Gronning on Capitalizing on Market Cycles in Commercial Real EstateAfter 35 years navigating market cycles from the RTC era through the financial crisis and COVID, Jeff Gronning recognizes the current setup in office real estate. Values are down 40% to 70% from peak, and capital has been flowing away from the sector for years. In late 2025, his firm Cannon Hill Capital Partners announced a partnership with TriPost to acquire up to $1.5 billion in distressed office assets across the Northeast.Jeff's conviction is rooted in what he's lived through before. When the financial crisis hit in 2008, he and his partners at Normandy Real Estate Partners had dry powder and capital markets expertise that allowed them to acquire assets like Boston's John Hancock Tower while the rest of the market stayed frozen. He believes this moment offers the kind of opportunity he hasn't seen in 15-plus years.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron and Jeff discuss what it takes to stay unflappable through multiple market cycles, why persistence and hard work matter more than timing, and what makes this moment feel like a generational opportunity in distressed office.1:39 - Growing up in Northern Virginia and starting at Coopers & Lybrand during the RTC era2:56 - Moving to Morgan Stanley and working on Real Estate Fund No. 14:44 - Leaving Morgan Stanley in 2005 to co-found Normandy Real Estate Partners8:17 - Acquiring defaulted loans and controlling assets like John Hancock Tower12:06 - Negotiating the Normandy-Columbia merger in late 2019 and closing in January 202013:13 - PIMCO's take-private transaction and navigating activist investors15:24 - Spinning out 55 people to form Cannon Hill Capital Partners17:12 - Announcing the TriPost Capital Partners strategic partnership in Q4 202518:25 - Office values down 40-70% and the opportunity in distressed office20:19 - Three-part strategy: distressed debt, gap equity, and conversions24:39 - Developing the mental edge to stay unflappable through market cycles25:50 - Controlling what you can control and grinding through with persistenceMentioned In Capitalizing on Market Cycles and Office Distress with Jeff GronningCannon Hill Capital Partners | LinkedIn Jeff Gronning on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Chad Lavender is the President of Capital Markets for North America at Newmark. He has more than 15 years of commercial real estate experience, particularly in healthcare and senior housing. Over his career, Chad has completed more than $50 billion in transactions across the U.S., beginning his journey in markets like Alabama and Dallas.Prior to joining Newmark, Chad worked in high-rise development before moving to lead the National Seniors Housing Group at HFF (Holliday Fenoglio Fowler), growing it into the number one senior housing platform in the country. He also worked as an investment advisor with Apartment Realty Advisors’ (ARA)  senior housing group before ARA was acquired by Newmark.Insights from Chad Lavender on Servant Leadership in Capital MarketsChad Lavender leads one of the largest capital markets teams at Newmark. Ask him who he reports to, and he'll point to the advisors on his platform. His job is supporting the people doing deals, helping them hit their goals, and clearing obstacles out of their way. That approach has kept his senior housing team at number one in the country for more than a decade.The same thinking shapes how he works with clients. For two years straight, Chad and his partner Ryan Maconachy told prospects they should refinance their assets instead of selling them. Refinancing didn't generate a commission. Selling did. But refinancing was the right call for those clients at that moment, so that's what Chad recommended. They played for the long term, put client interests ahead of their own revenue, and ended up doubling their business every single year from 2012 to 2019.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron and Chad discuss what servant leadership actually looks like in a transaction business, why telling clients the truth builds more value than chasing every deal, how market dominance comes from discipline and consistency, and why attitude, effort, and energy are the only variables you can actually control.2:08 - Growing up in Tuscaloosa with family in real estate and development3:22 - Running a T-shirt business at Alabama and learning sales4:02 - Starting in high-rise development in January 2008 as the financial crisis hit5:16 - Cold-calling 62 groups and asking for introductions, not jobs6:08 - Working triple duty as an analyst and broker at ARA7:10 - Launching senior housing with Ryan Maconachy and advising clients to refinance8:12 - Pitching HFF and doubling revenue every year from 2012 to 20199:03 - Maintaining number one market share through COVID14:16 - Servant leadership and reporting to advisors19:23 - Controlling attitude, effort, and energy20:51 - Market outlook across asset classes and emerging opportunities24:01 - Be forever curious and work relentlesslyMentioned In Servant Leadership and Market Dominance with Chad LavenderNewmark | LinkedInChad Lavender on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

James Ryan founded RYCO Capital in 2018 and has led the firm since its inception. Since establishing the company, James has personally overseen all aspects of its growth and operations. His team has grown and expanded, and he has been a contrarian to great success, acquiring multifamily properties across New York City.Prior to founding RYCO Capital, James held leadership and finance roles across real estate development and early-stage technology firms. He earned his BA in Political Science from Yale University.Insights from James Ryan on Contrarian Investing in New York City MultifamilyWhen New York passed the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act in 2019, capital fled the multifamily market overnight. When COVID hit in early 2020, the exodus accelerated. James Ryan saw something different: supply constraints in the tightest housing market in the country, with assets trading at prices that still cash-flowed even if rents stayed flat.RYCO Capital's family office structure gave James an advantage most syndicators don't have - he could say no to deals that didn't make sense and wait for the right opportunities. Between 2020 and 2024, while others stayed on the sidelines, he bought across Brooklyn and Manhattan, raised capital by showing protected downside scenarios, and built a team capable of executing complex, multi-year value-add projects.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron and James discuss contrarian investing, raising capital without fee pressure, building quality assets that can hold through market cycles, and managing the grind of daily operations while staying focused on long-term goals.1:40 - Growing up in Rochester and starting in Brooklyn real estate after Yale3:31 - Family office background in Rochester and buying out father’s partner after a tragic loss5:33 - Looking at secondary markets in 2019 and finding everything overpriced6:10 - How the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act changed the NYC market overnight7:35 - Closing on four Brooklyn properties in January 2020 and what happened next8:48 - The thesis: supply constraints and New York City isn't dead11:21 - Raising capital and focusing on deals the team believes in12:28 - Underwriting for downside protection and returning principal to investors15:38 - Why having institutional backing prevents deal-making adrenaline18:41 - Building a vertically integrated team that executes at a high level23:22 - Managing adversity, the daily grind, and staying focused on long-term vision26:08 - Work-life balance, family time, and avoiding hustle cultureMentioned In Contrarian Investing and Building for the Long Term with James RyanRYCO Capital | LinkedInJames Ryan on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Jason Bordainick started his first company from a dorm room at the University of Virginia. Off Campus Partners became the nation's largest online marketplace for student housing and was eventually acquired by CoStar. That success gave him credibility, momentum, and the confidence to take on something harder.In 2010, he and his childhood friend Andy Cavaluzzi decided to build a business in affordable housing preservation. Expertise, relationships, and regulatory fluency created steep barriers to entry in the space. They had vision but no track record in the asset class, no institutional backing, and no family real estate firm to lean on. For three and a half years, they submitted proposals, chased deals, and came up just short. That grind built the discipline and partnership that would eventually shape Hudson Valley Property Group into one of the leading platforms in the space.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Aaron and Jason discuss what it takes to break into a market with high barriers to entry, how to build institutional trust from scratch, and why consistency and execution matter more than having all the answers upfront. Jason shares lessons from proving out a model, earning credibility deal by deal, and leading a business that does well by doing good.2:57 - Starting Off Campus Partners from a dorm room and winning a business plan competition4:57 -Teaming up with childhood friend Andy Cavaluzzi to start Hudson Valley Property Group in 20106:48 - Understanding capital-A Affordable housing and the role of Section 8 and LIHTC programs11:49 - Starting with $5,000 and $10,000 checks and compounding investor trust14:52 - Values-first leadership and how you do anything is how you do everything16:21 - Using discipline and AI to screen projects and deploy capital at scale18:16 - Managing adversity and the mental challenges of entrepreneurship21:14 - How adversity strengthens partnerships and builds equal commitment23:35 - Career advice for the next generation and the value of specializationMentioned In Leading the Future of Affordable Housing with Jason BordainickHudson Valley Property Group | LinkedInJason Bordainick on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Henry Stimler serves as an Executive Managing Director on Newmark’s Capital Markets Strategies team, where he specializes in originating and structuring in multifamily debt and equity with an emphasis on large bespoke portfolio transactions. Based in the firm’s New York headquarters, Stimler is known for guiding traditional Tri-State investors into new high growth markets across the U.S., including the Midwest, Texas and South Florida, while also sourcing global equity from key international cities like London, Tel Aviv and Johannesburg. Prior to joining Newmark, Stimler founded and served as Director of London Green Capital, a debt origination firm. Insights from Henry Stimler on How Courage and Consistency Close DealsHenry Stimler runs a full calendar. Client meetings, travel, prospecting, closings, and pipeline follow-ups take up most days, yet he still takes calls from young professionals, makes time for anyone genuinely trying to learn the business, and sees mentorship as part of the job.That mindset was shaped by starting from zero after the 2008 crash. He went from a thriving business to being overdrawn at the ATM and had to rebuild his career piece by piece. It taught him to focus on real opportunities, protect his time and rely on a team where everyone brings a different strength.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron talks with Henry about rebuilding from the ground up, sourcing and structuring large multifamily transactions, and keeping deals on track in challenging market conditions. Henry discusses rejection, resilience, mentorship and what it takes to close complex deals.1:50 – Henry’s background growing up in London and leaving the traditional path2:35 – Discovering an arbitrage opportunity and building Phoenix2:50 – The 2008 crash and losing everything, including assets and business3:20 – Rebuilding through club promotion, opening venues, and returning to finance3:53 – Turning a shuttered Chinese restaurant into one of NYC’s hottest nightclubs6:12 – Closing his first deal and earning a $25K commission before his son was born6:21 – Transition to Newmark when Cantor rolls platforms together7:03 – Building a national platform and taking NYC investors into new markets7:57 – Success is not linear and why connection skills drive outcomes10:51 – How to spot time wasters and protect your capacity12:12 – “Fish with a net” and why small maybes drain time14:24 – Making time for students and early-career outreach16:35 – Keeping a billion-dollar pipeline moving toward closing18:53 – Team structure in practice and the yin and yang with Bill Weber21:32 – Developing junior talent and the cold outreach that led to a $230M closing29:02 – The perspective and humility carried forward from the 2008 crashMentioned In How Courage and Consistency Close Deals with Henry StimlerNewmark | LinkedIn Henry Stimler on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Ran Eliasaf is the founder of Northwind Group, a real estate private credit platform based in New York. He founded the firm in 2008 and oversees all investment activity. Throughout his career, Ran has executed more than 300 real estate transactions totaling over $5.5 billion, investing in commercial properties in New York City and healthcare and senior-living properties across the U.S. In 2017, he spearheaded the creation of Northwind’s credit platform and launched the firm’s discretionary closed-ended debt funds, which now manage more than $2 billion in assets.Under Ran’s leadership, Northwind has evolved into an institutional-grade private credit business, investing with a focus on discipline, risk management, and transparency. Before founding Northwind Group, Ran co-founded and served as CEO of a real estate fund that acquired a portfolio of grocery-anchored shopping centers in Florida and Texas.Insights from Ran Eliasaf on Navigating Market Cycles and Risk ManagementAfter more than six years in the Israeli Navy as a ship commander, Ran Eliasaf eventually made his way into real estate and founded Northwind Group in 2008. When the financial crisis hit, he was one of the few buyers with liquidity—acquiring distressed debt backed by grocery-anchored assets while most of the market froze.Northwind grew deal by deal for more than a decade before launching its first institutionally backed credit fund in 2020. Today, the firm focuses on middle-market real estate loans, where discipline matters more than upside and one bad loan can wipe out the return of ten good ones.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron and Ran discuss how Navy-level discipline translates into private credit, why honesty, integrity, and transparency shape every deal, and the principles Northwind Group relies on to protect capital and outperform through market cycles.2:03 — Growing up on Israeli Air Force bases and serving over six years as a ship commander2:58 — Opening a surfing school in the Dominican Republic and returning for law school3:52 — Launching Northwind Group in 2008 and buying distressed debt during the financial crisis5:42 — More than a decade of deal-by-deal capitalization before the first credit fund in July 20208:14 — Why Northwind Group focuses on $20M–$100M loans and the niche between banks and mega-funds12:03 — Building a healthcare lending platform and the tech used to underwrite a complex asset class13:35 — Northwind Group’s core principles: honesty, integrity, and transparency16:08 — Managing a high-intensity lending environment and why surfing keeps Ran grounded19:58 — Political risk as a major underwriting factor and why Northwind Group still believes in New York21:37 — Zero principal losses, never taking back a property, and protecting investor capitalMentioned in Navigating Market Cycles and Risk Management with Ran EliasafNorthwind Group | LinkedIn Ran Eliasaf on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Diego Hodara is the founder and CEO of Titanium Realty Group, a real estate investment and development company focused on mixed-use and residential assets in transit-oriented markets across the New York metropolitan area. Titanium Realty Group has close to 2,000 units under development or completed in Jersey City, NJ, and Port Chester, NY, representing more than $800 million in total project value. Diego holds a master’s degree in Real Estate Finance and Investment from NYU, as well as degrees in Architecture, Urban Planning, and an MBA from the University of Uruguay.Insights from Diego Hodara on Reinvention and Resilience in Real Estate DevelopmentWhen Diego Hodara arrived in the United States from Uruguay at 30, he had an architecture degree and construction know-how, but no network, no capital, and no work visa. He started over selling kitchen cabinets and managing renovations across New York's boroughs, learning how the city actually gets built. During the recession, he bought his first property in Jersey City with his own savings. It went underwater almost immediately. Instead of walking away, he held on, managed it himself, and turned those mistakes into lessons.That discipline became the foundation for Titanium Realty Group. Diego scaled methodically from fix-and-flips to 30-unit buildings to high-rise developments, proving he could execute at each level before raising the stakes. Without family wealth or institutional backing, he had no room for error. He grew slowly, questioned every assumption, and reinvested everything into the next deal.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron and Diego discuss starting over at 30 with nothing, scaling from two-family homes to high-rise developments without losing discipline, and the guiding principle that’s shaped everything Diego has built—don’t try to be the biggest, try to be the strongest.1:28 — Moving from Uruguay to the U.S. at 30 and starting over without a network4:42 — Selling kitchen cabinets and managing renovations across New York City8:05 — Early lessons in construction, financing, and navigating a new market10:56 — Buying his first property in Jersey City and surviving the downturn14:23 — Building confidence through experience and small-scale development18:00 — Founding Titanium Realty Group and committing to deliberate growth21:17 — From two-family homes to high-rise projects and institutional credibility24:50 — Managing risk and questioning assumptions before every new deal28:36 — The importance of discipline when working with investors’ money31:45 — Expanding into preferred equity, bridge lending, and conversions34:20 — What it means to build strength—not size—in developmentMentioned in Reinvention and Resilience in Real Estate Development with Diego Hodara Titanium Realty Group | LinkedInDiego Hodara on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

When you strip business down to its core, it’s about people. Every deal, every partnership, and every bit of growth comes from how well your team works together. Real culture comes from integrity, empathy, and a shared belief in doing things the right way.Strong teams start with trust. They create an environment where people can make mistakes, recover, and keep moving forward. Leaders who protect that culture and put their people first build something that lasts. They attract talent that wants to grow and stay part of something meaningful.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss shares what it takes to build a high-performing team that endures. He talks about why integrity shapes culture, how empathy becomes a true advantage, and what great leaders do to keep their teams performing at the highest level.1:11 – Trust, empathy, and the foundation of sustainable performance2:19 – Integrity as the first principle of leadership4:04 – Creating psychological safety inside high-performing teams6:05 – Team first vs. customer first and why it’s not a contradiction8:18 – Avoiding mediocrity and keeping a culture of innovation alive11:18 – Recognizing and developing star, solid, and struggling performers12:22 – Why soft skills and human connection are the next competitive edge13:47 – The pitfalls that quietly destroy culture17:04 – Building a culture of “we can figure it out”18:03 – Resilience, mindset, and how leaders manage setbacks21:01 – Generosity, perspective, and putting people before yourselfMentioned In The Secret to Building a High-Performing Team That Actually LastsA.Y. Strauss | LinkedInAaron Strauss on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Evan Bell is Managing Partner and co-founder of Lorimer Capital, a direct portfolio lender that provides creative financing solutions for commercial real estate opportunities across the eastern U.S. He has over two decades of expertise in structured real estate credit products and started his career as a real estate finance attorney, representing major institutions like Morgan Stanley, Barclays, Lehman Brothers, and Wachovia Bank on mortgage and mezzanine financings, which totaled over $10 billion.Prior to launching Lorimer Capital, Evan served as co-founder and Principal of Unity Capital, where he played a major role in leading the company to success and sustained growth. He earned his B.A. from the State University of New York at Albany and received his J.D. from Hofstra University School of Law. While there, he was a member of the Hofstra Law Review and a recipient of Westlaw’s Corpus Juris Secundum Award.Insights from Evan Bell on Relationships and Discipline in Real Estate FinancingEvan Bell started his first day of work on September 10th, 2001. By the next morning, everything had changed. That jarring introduction to his career taught him early that you can't control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond. Fast forward two decades, and that philosophy has guided him from law firms to launching Unity Capital with "very little clue" what he was doing, to now building Lorimer Capital with partners he's known for years. In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Evan talks candidly about why he still puts his own money in every deal, how he went from doing small multifamily loans to closing $51 million construction deals with developers like Kushner Companies, and why he tells young people to treat everyone with respect because you never know where careers will lead. He also opens up about managing the stress of high-stakes lending by reading philosophy, keeping perspective, and remembering that "everyone's got their bag of problems no matter how great they look when you see them out at lunch."1:55 - Evan’s childhood, educational background, and career transitions7:33 - The current cycle for private credit lenders and discipline as essential for navigating market cycles11:16 - Relationship-based business as paramount to long-term success in real estate finance14:42 - Evan’s thought process when looking at dealmaking opportunities right now18:03 - Prioritization and focus of Evan and his partners as they continue to grow the firm20:36 - The key to navigating anxiety in a high-stress industry25:57 - The importance of showing up and staying in the mix to build a businessMentioned In Why Relationships and Discipline Matter Most in Real Estate Financing with Evan BellMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklLorimar Capital | LinkedIn Unity Capital | LinkedIn | InstagramEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Norman Bobrow is the president of Norman Bobrow & Co., Inc., one of New York's leading independently-owned, tenant-focused commercial real estate brokerages. A third-generation real estate professional and lifelong New Yorker, Norman launched the firm in 1980 with a clear mission to represent tenants exclusively and deliver results with precision, integrity, and relentless advocacy. Over the course of his career, he's personally negotiated more than 3,000 leases and overseen the acquisition of more than 300 properties nationwide.Norman comes from a real estate family and was involved early on watching his father participate in small syndications. Despite struggling with dyslexia and being unable to read until the eighth grade, he built his career from the ground up, starting at Syntex Corporation building the Winston Towers and working his way through various firms before launching his own brokerage. Today, his firm handles 200 to 250 leases annually with a team of 25 leasing brokers, all while maintaining a personal, family-business approach where everyone knows each other's stories.Insights from Norman Bobrow on Tenant Advocacy and Building Legacy in New York Real EstateNorman Bobrow’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, integrity, and the importance of giving back. Despite being dyslexic and struggling to read until the eighth grade, he went on to build a thriving, tenant-focused brokerage firm, negotiating over 3,000 leases and overseeing the acquisition of 300+ properties nationwide. His life is a masterclass in turning perceived weaknesses into strengths and always looking forward, never back.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Norman talks about his early struggles and how his family and mentors like Warren Buffett shaped his investment philosophy. He shares his passion for helping others, whether it's teaching young brokers how to "make a living" or his extensive philanthropic work. Norman also offers his unique approach to business, including his unwavering commitment to representing tenants exclusively and how he’s built a culture of teamwork and personal care.2:01 - Norman’s journey from dyslexia to highly successful real estate broker6:50 - Why Norman’s firm operates with a tenant-first advocacy approach10:13 - What lies behind Norman’s passion for philanthropy and mentorship15:01 - Critical core philosophies for success in the real estate business19:47 - Examples of Norman’s investment dealmaking prowess and experience24:29 - The disciplined investment approach Norman learned from those like Warren Buffett27:03 - The most critical element of success in the next few years as technology advancesMentioned In Tenant Advocacy and Building Legacy in New York Real Estate with Norman BobrowNorman Bobrow & Company Inc. | LinkedIn | Facebook United Cerebral PalsyOrCam ReadEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Jonathan Dulberg has nearly 20 years of experience acquiring and operating real estate throughout the U.S. and Europe for both institutional and privately-held real estate firms. Since 2010, he has been at Time Equities Inc., a New York-based investment and development firm, where he serves as the Director of Acquisitions.Jonathan focuses on sub-institutional investments ranging from $10 to $50 million in size. Throughout his career, he has acquired more than $800 million of real estate, focusing predominantly on opportunistic and value-add investments across office, industrial, and multifamily assets. Additionally, he oversees the day-to-day asset management of a two-million-square-foot portfolio spanning the Northeast, Midwest, and Northwest.Prior to Time Equities, Jonathan spent three years at Franklin Templeton Investments working within their institutional fund-to-fund platform.Insights from Jonathan Dulberg on Opportunistic Real Estate InvestingJonathan Dulberg understands real estate from the ground up. Growing up with a father in the construction industry, he was exposed to development projects from an early age before transitioning from Franklin Templeton's institutional fund-to-fund platform to Time Equities in 2010. As Director of Acquisitions, Jonathan focuses on sub-institutional investments ranging from $10 to $50 million, having acquired more than $800 million of real estate throughout his career.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Jonathan discusses his investment philosophy of avoiding "whatever is the flavor of the month" and instead focusing on yield-driven, opportunistic investments. He shares how Time Equities capitalized on opportunities post-2008 financial crisis when they could find value and work with existing borrowers and lenders. Jonathan explains their move into the Netherlands when U.S. office markets became overpriced, their pivot to short-term credit during COVID, and why he sees current opportunities in the office market where buildings can be bought at significant discounts to replacement cost.1:51 - How Jonathan’s family and childhood influenced his career path6:11 - Transition from the institutional side of real estate to being a more hands-on investor11:12 - How Jonathan’s investment strategy avoids the trap of chasing trends13:51 - Examples of finding value in the real estate market (even during downturns)18:08 - Why the office market is a source for exciting investment opportunities right now22:24 - How COVID has impacted dealmaking in the multifamily asset class24:39 - Jonathan’s personal approach to managing stress and adversityMentioned In Opportunistic Real Estate Investing with Time Equities' Jonathan DulbergTime Equities Inc.Jonathan Dulberg on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

As a dynamic speaker whose career spans several domains, Jonathan Cohen has always brought resilience and purpose to the table. His podcast features conversations with high performers across multiple industries who provide their insights and strategies to help people overcome obstacles, shift their mindset, and live with intention. With over 100 interviews of individuals ranging from fighter pilots and Navy SEALS to best-selling authors and nine-figure entrepreneurs, he’s built an audience of over 30,000 across social media and provided different strategies, tools, tips, and tactics they can leverage to lead a higher quality of life.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Jonathan discusses mental fitness as foundational for effective high-performance in deal-making, emphasizing resilience, reframing stress, and managing limiting beliefs. He presents practical frameworks to help individuals build self-awareness, overcome impostor syndrome, and maintain mental fitness under pressure. Jonathan also confronts mental health stigma in organizations, challenges leaders to foster supportive environments, and reveals how you can cultivate mental fitness from the moment you wake up.6:06 - The persistent stigma around mental health in high-pressure professional settings7:57 - How to break the silence and shift the culture and conversation around mental health 12:41 - Mental fitness as both a practice and a form of professional competency 18:01 - The role of leadership in supporting mental well-being for their employees23:22 - The passenger seat exercise and its roots in inner child work28:13 - How the evidence framework challenges imposter syndrome and encourages growth35:16 - How naming your sacrifices helps you strategically manage suffering to achieve big goals39:07 - The future self framework that provides insight and provokes reflectionMentioned In Mental Fitness and Peak Performance Under Pressure with Jonathan CohenInside the Inspired with Jonathan Z. Cohen | YouTube | LinkedInConnect with Jonathan Cohen on InstagramPrinciples and other books by Ray DalioThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.The Art of Resilience by Ross EdgleyThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

With over two decades in retail real estate, Justin Stein brings a unique perspective on how the industry has transformed—and where it's heading next. As Executive Vice President of Leasing at Tanger, he's been instrumental in the company's evolution from a legacy outlet operator to a dynamic, diversified portfolio of open-air shopping centers that blend outlet and full-price retail with experiential destinations.In this episode of The Dealmakers' Edge, Justin shares how Tanger navigated its transformation during the challenging COVID era, building a new executive team while every store was closed. He discusses the strategic expansion into lifestyle centers through acquisitions like Bridge Street Town Centre, The Promenade, and Pinecrest, the critical importance of food and beverage in driving traffic and extending dwell time, and how technology and data analytics are reshaping the tenant experience. Justin also opens up about the soft skills that separate great leasing professionals from good ones—treating every lease as the beginning of a partnership, not the end of a transaction.2:47 - Justin's unconventional entry into real estate from his buddy's couch to CBRE industrial3:56 - Tanger's history and the bold transformation under CEO Stephen Yalof during COVID7:06 - Strategic evolution from outlet-only to full-price retail with lifestyle center acquisitions9:06 - Key takeaways from this year's ICSC Vegas conference and the optimistic mood11:56 - How Tanger stays ahead of retail trends through strategic reinvestment and partnerships13:47 - Portfolio diversification beyond footwear and apparel into F&B and entertainment16:05 - The Nashville development as a blueprint for placemaking and experiential retail18:28 - Technology integration through the loyalty app and omnichannel strategies22:50 - Building long-term brand partnerships versus transactional lease deals25:01 - What's changed in retailer conversations about opening new stores26:41 - Tanger's growth plans and expansion into new markets and categories30:57 - Career advice: doing what you love and leaving everything on the fieldMentioned In Retail Real Estate Innovation and Strategy with Tanger's Justin SteinTangerConnect with Justin Stein on LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Glen Kunofsky shares how a long-term, client-centered philosophy led to the creation of Surmount, a unified platform combining brokerage, advisory, development, and capital markets services. What began as a brokerage team evolved in direct response to client needs—from navigating sale-leasebacks, to renegotiating leases during downturns, to sourcing capital and delivering development expertise. Glen outlines how each service line emerged from listening to clients and building relationships that endure across market cycles.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Glen Kunofsky joins Aaron Strauss to break down the relationship-driven vision behind Surmount and how culture, mentorship, and long-term thinking have shaped every aspect of the firm’s growth. He explains why Surmount’s structure is designed to reduce internal competition and foster collaboration, and how that approach is attracting both talent and clients in today’s market. Glen also shares how mindset, humility, and staying close to the client have guided his career through every cycle of commercial real estate.2:00 – Glen’s early start in real estate during college at Arizona State University7:00 – Building a portfolio, launching a construction company, and moving back East9:55 – Breaking into brokerage at Marcus & Millichap and shifting to net lease13:40 – Why Glen rejected traditional brokerage culture to build a long-term team17:55 – Creating Surmount by combining brokerage, advisory, development, and capital markets22:40 – How Surmount’s collaborative culture attracts talent and clients in today’s market25:10 – Glen’s mindset on managing relationships, setbacks, and long-term value30:10 – Advocating in Washington for tax legislation that supports real estate investmentMentioned In The Relationship-Driven Vision Behind Surmount with Glen KunofskySurmount | LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Rafael is the Founder and Managing Partner of Safe Harbor Capital Partners and is Chair of the Investment Committee. He has managed over $1B of performing and non-performing commercial and residential mortgage loans, defaulted debt instruments, and distressed real estate assets transactions in both Domestic US and International markets.From 1992 to 1999, he was the founder and CEO of MTU, a provider of commercial vehicle fleet servicing and maintenance. From 2001 to 2005, Mr. Serrano served as a business management and strategic consultant to British Aerospace Systems (BAE Systems, Inc.) with responsibilities throughout South America. Prior, he served as a Corporate National Accounts Manager with WorldCom, Inc. In 2005, Rafael began his career in distressed debt with the founding of Safe Harbor Capital Partners. From 2005 to 2014, Rafael transacted loan workouts in separately managed accounts, generating benchmark-beating returns for an investor base that grew from high-net-worth individuals to include banks, fund managers, and prominent family offices. In 2015, Rafael launched Safe Harbor Distressed Debt Fund I, laying the blueprint for the family of funds managed today. In the last two decades, Rafael has been an active participant in the acquisition, development and reposition of residential and commercial real estate properties. He attended Florida International University.Insights from Rafael Serrano on Building a Scalable Distressed Debt PlatformRafael Serrano has been active in the distressed real estate space for nearly two decades, acquiring more than $1 billion in performing and non-performing loans, defaulted debt, and REO assets across both U.S. and international markets. As Founder and Managing Partner of Safe Harbor Capital Partners, he has scaled the firm from a solo operation into an institutional-grade platform known for disciplined underwriting and consistent returns—even in the most complex legal and market environments.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Rafael shares his perspective on sourcing and restructuring loans, working with banks and borrowers through challenging workouts, and why Safe Harbor remains focused on single-asset CRE debt with sub-50% LTVs. He also discusses his approach to resilience, building long-term infrastructure, and the next phase of growth—including special situations, origination strategies, and democratizing access to private credit.1:22 – Rafael’s early path: from car repair to consulting in South America to distressed debt4:39 – The first Safe Harbor deal: a warehouse loan—and an NSF checking account6:30 – Why consistency, discipline, and math drive underwriting at Safe Harbor8:09 – Treating distressed debt as an ongoing business—not an opportunistic trade14:03 – Regional banks vs. CMBS: where Safe Harbor sees opportunity16:31 – Why CMBS servicers profit more when loans default18:05 – Grit, mindset, and the emotional discipline behind Safe Harbor’s approachMentioned In Scaling Safe Harbor in Distressed Real Estate with Rafael SerranoSafe Harbor | LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Elise Holtzman is the CEO of The Lawyer’s Edge®, an executive coaching and consulting firm where she and her team have spent over 16 years helping law firms build thriving businesses by transforming lawyers into better business developers and leaders. A former practicing attorney, Elise brings first-hand knowledge of the legal profession’s demands and a strategic focus on rainmaking, leadership, and visibility.Elise is the creator of the Lawyers Making Rain® program and the Ignite Women’s Business Development Accelerator, both designed to help attorneys at all levels grow their impact and client base. She is also the host of The Lawyer’s Edge podcast and a frequent speaker for law firms and bar associations. Her insights have been featured in Law.com, Law360, and other leading legal publications.She holds a B.A. in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from Columbia Law School, where she served as a senior editor of the Columbia Law Review. She is currently Vice President of the Columbia Law School Association. Before launching The Lawyer’s Edge, Elise practiced commercial real estate law at Fried Frank and Morgan Lewis.Insights from Elise Holtzman on Developing Rainmakers and LeadersElise Holtzman joins The Dealmakers’ Edge to share practical leadership insights tailored for high-performing professionals in commercial real estate and beyond. A former Biglaw attorney turned executive coach, Elise now helps professionals elevate their leadership, grow their visibility, and develop sustainable business development strategies.In this episode, she and host Aaron Strauss explore how top performers can create intentional growth, avoid burnout, and evolve into impactful leaders. From rethinking productivity to building a culture of strategic delegation, Elise offers a powerful framework for dealmakers looking to lead with clarity and purpose.0:27 – Meet Elise Holtzman and her journey from Biglaw to leadership coaching3:32 – Common struggles high achievers face beyond technical execution5:22 – Early signs of burnout and how they show up in professionals7:10 – Using “act one and act two” to create presence and personal balance10:06 – Lessons from mentors and models of sustainable success12:47 – The role of self-awareness in avoiding burnout and staying aligned17:16 – Shifting from doer to leader and learning to let go22:47 – Why intentional reflection drives growth and innovationMentioned In Leadership Lessons for Dealmakers with Elise HoltzmanThe Lawyer’s Edge | Podcast | LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

David Berg is a Partner at Infinity Real Estate, where he oversees acquisitions, investment ventures, and the firm’s overall investment strategy. Since joining in 2011 as Investment Director, David has led Infinity’s expansion into the Philadelphia and Miami markets while managing key lender and investor relationships. Under his leadership, the firm is currently developing or repositioning over one million square feet of commercial and residential property.David has played a central role in shaping Infinity’s growth, executing transactions totaling over $750 million across multifamily, retail, hospitality, and mixed-use assets. His entrepreneurial approach and deep expertise in capital transactions have made him a driving force behind Infinity’s diversified portfolio. Prior to Infinity, he worked at Monday Properties on high-profile Class A office towers, including 230 Park Avenue and an 11-asset portfolio in Rosslyn, Virginia. He also served as Vice President of Acquisitions at Mermelstein Development and began his career in investment banking at JPMorgan and RBC Capital Markets.A graduate of Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, David holds degrees in Finance and Real Estate. He is a Vice President of the Ocean Drive Association, co-chair of the South Beach Business Improvement District, board member of the Washington Avenue BID, and Vice President of the Española Way Association. A lifelong athlete and devoted supporter of the ASPCA and Jewish National Fund, David lives in Miami Beach with his wife Maya, their son Elijah, and their dog Roux.Insights from David Berg on Scaling, Strategy, and Urban Market ExpansionDavid Berg shares how personal roots and deep local networks have shaped Infinity Real Estate’s expansion into Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Miami. Markets where on-the-ground experience and community alignment have led to successful redevelopment strategies. He explains how Infinity identifies value in historic properties, avoids the “dumb tax” of new market entry, and remains responsive to shifting dynamics through a nimble, entrepreneurial approach.In this episode, David also discusses Infinity’s return to New York City’s retail sector and why today’s volatility is creating compelling opportunities for disciplined, contrarian investors. He offers a candid look at how he manages the emotional demands of high-stakes development, and shares the personal routines that help him stay grounded, focused, and effective in a constantly evolving industry.1:30 – David’s roots and path to real estate4:15 – Early career moves7:00 – Joining Infinity Real Estate and the firm’s early focus on workforce housing in D.C.9:45 – Strategic expansion into Philly and Miami 12:00 – The Clay Hotel project and how COVID catalyzed a move to Miami14:50 – Community involvement and leadership in Miami Beach redevelopment17:10 – The Garden Court Towers project in West Philly and Infinity’s preservation-first approach19:45 – Why Infinity is re-entering the NY market after nearly a decade22:10 – Managing stress, staying agile, and how Infinity builds a resilient team cultureMentioned In Strategic Growth in Urban Real Estate with David BergInfinity Real EstateEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Avner Krohn is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Jasko Development, a vertically integrated real estate development firm based in New Britain, Connecticut. Under his leadership, Jasko has delivered a wide range of projects across the multifamily, healthcare, and retail sectors—focused primarily on underserved urban cores in the Northeast.Avner launched his entrepreneurial career at age 10 and has since spent more than two decades working across real estate development, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse. With deep expertise in finance, public-private partnerships, and ground-up construction, Avner has led the development of over 400 residential units and commercial properties, with another 500+ units currently in pre-development.He is widely respected for his ability to navigate the complex intersection of development, government, and community needs. Avner is also an advocate for mission-aligned growth, integrating long-term public benefit with investor returns. Insights from Avner Krohn on Public-Private Partnerships in Real Estate DevelopmentWith a background that bridges entrepreneurial grit and large-scale execution, Avner Krohn brings a rare blend of strategic insight and real-world experience to the commercial real estate space. His vertically integrated firm, Jasko Development, has carved out a niche working with municipalities to unlock challenging projects that others overlook.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss speaks with Avner about the real dynamics of public-private partnerships, from how to build trust with city officials to structuring deals that actually pencil in tough markets. Avner also shares how he’s scaled a lean but powerful team, why mindset matters more than market timing, and what keeps him grounded through the ups and downs of development.2:13 – Avner’s early days: entrepreneurship at age 10 and launching his first business5:45 – Lessons from Israel, building a foundation in real estate and finance outside the traditional path8:58 – First deal in Brooklyn and the road to larger-scale development13:35 – Structuring turnkey solutions for the healthcare and retail sectors16:12 – The anatomy of public-private partnerships and why most developers miss the mark20:43 – What municipalities actually need (and how to earn their trust)24:01 – Managing a growing business while staying present with a young family26:47 – How Avner balances optimism with realism in turbulent marketsMentioned In Scaling Smart Real Estate Development with Avner KrohnJasko Development | LinkedIn | Avner KrohnEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Greg Corbin is the President and founder of Northgate Real Estate Group, which specializes in the sale and workout of distressed properties. In addition, he has deep expertise in judicial and UCC foreclosures, loan and REO sales, restructuring, and stalled construction sites. He’s widely recognized as one of the most active and sought-after industry leaders, with countless accolades throughout his career.Greg spent a decade at Besen & Associates before becoming a Director of Sales at Massey Knakal (now Cushman and Wakefield). Then, before starting his firm, Greg spent four years at Rosewood Realty Group as President of Bankruptcy and Restructuring. While there, he and his team arranged the sale, workout, or recapitalization of over 100 buildings, development sites, membership interests, and loans totaling $1.1 billion in underlying collateral. Currently, Greg sits on the real estate board of the American Bankruptcy Institute and is the founder and current board member of the non-profit Give to Give Foundation. He graduated from Horace Mann and Boston University and lives on the Upper West Side with his wife and children.Insights from Greg Corbin on the State of the Distressed Real Estate MarketWith his team, Greg Corbin has been involved in over $3.4 billion in investment property sales across all major asset classes, including multifamily apartment buildings, development sites, industrial properties, transitional housing facilities, bulk condominium packages, and commercial buildings. A highly regarded industry expert in bankruptcy, foreclosure, and borrower/lender workouts, Greg frequently shares his insights at major conferences and on top real estate podcasts.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss sits down with Greg to explore what sets a distressed property broker apart from a traditional real estate broker, along with an inside look at the distressed market, especially in New York City. Greg also shares his advice on building a niche, staying focused for success, and the tools and strategies that drive results in distressed real estate.2:13 – Greg’s early career and entry into distressed real estate 9:26 – Key differences between traditional and distressed real estate 15:45 – State of the distressed market and key trends shaping 2025 22:05 – The distressed buyer’s mindset during times of diminished returns 26:01 – Why specialists outperform generalists in real estate 28:14 – Greg’s approach to staying focused and prioritizing daily tasks 30:43 – Greg’s take on the “work smart, not hard” mindsetMentioned In State of the Distressed Real Estate Market with Greg CorbinNorthgage Real Estate Group | Greg Corbin | LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Bob Knakal is a name everyone knows in commercial real estate. Since 1984, he’s brokered over 2,399 buildings in the New York City area, with a market value approximating $22 billion. For 26 years, he owned and ran Massey Knakal with a focus on building a culture of servant leadership, training people, and dominating the market. He eventually sold the company to Cushman & Wakefield for $100 million in 2014.Now, Bob is a prominent thought leader in the commercial real estate business. He writes about the market, appears on podcasts and television, and holds university lectures. Recently, he started the investment sales and capital markets brokerage firm BK Real Estate Advisors, which creates better interpretations from artificial intelligence data to give their clients more options and better results.Insights from Bob Knakal on Servant Leadership, AI, and the Future of BrokerageBob Knakal and his co-founder, Paul Massey, built Massey Knakal Realty Services on the foundation of servant leadership—a management style that led to market dominance and a lasting impact on New York City's real estate industry. Their leadership shaped the firm's success and cultivated a new generation of industry leaders. Today, more than 30 companies or divisions within New York’s investment sales market are owned or run by professionals who got their start at Massey Knakal.Now, as Chairman and CEO of BKREA, Bob is once again at the forefront of commercial brokerage, pioneering new approaches to investment sales with cutting-edge AI and data-driven strategies.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss sits down with Bob to discuss his four decades in real estate, the power of servant leadership, and how embracing AI and data interpretation is shaping the future of the industry. Bob also shares invaluable lessons on standing out in a competitive market, developing mental resilience, and setting realistic success benchmarks in brokerage.2:28 – The most exciting thing about commercial real estate for Bob today3:47 – How servant leadership fosters a high-performance culture and long-term success9:49 – The speed, impact, and challenges of integrating AI and data technology in real estate13:35 – Using social media to share career insights and build a strong professional brand17:02 – How Bob evolved from traditional brokerage to navigating complex, developer-focused deals22:58 – The role of mental resilience and understanding realistic success metrics in salesMentioned In Servant Leadership, AI, and the Future of Brokerage with Bob KnakalBob Knakal | Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram | YouTubeBRKEA | LinkedIn | Twitter/XRobert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant LeadershipEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Jonathan Zamir is the founder and managing partner of real estate investment firm Keystone Equities. Keystone operates as both a private equity and private credit platform and focuses on acquiring, redeveloping, and repositioning commercial and residential properties in key U.S. markets while also originating and managing debt investments. Under Jonathan’s leadership, the firm has grown a diverse portfolio emphasizing value creation through strategic investment, hands-on management, and disciplined financing.Prior to founding Keystone in 2010, he started his real estate career with The Moinian Group as portfolio manager and gained practical, street smart knowledge in property management and operations. Then he led acquisitions at Infinity Real Estate, a prominent real estate private equity firm that gave him the book smarts to succeed. He also graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from NYU Stern’s School of Business and received a Graduate Certificate in real estate from NYU’s School of Continuing Professional Studies.Born and raised in New York City, Jonathan resides in Great Neck, Long Island with his wife and their three kids.Insights from Jonathan Zamir on Building Your Reputation As Principal of Keystone Equities, Jonathan Zamir leads all major decisions related to deal sourcing, debt financing, co-investment opportunities, and key transactional matters. He also oversees the firm's overall operations while managing the day-to-day responsibilities of running the business.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss sits down with Jonathan to discuss his journey in commercial real estate, the power of relationship-building, and the importance of authenticity in business. Jonathan shares valuable insights from his early career, detailing his transition from various roles in the industry to establishing his own firm. The conversation explores the challenges of attracting and managing institutional capital, navigating market cycles, and maintaining a strong reputation in an ever-evolving industry.2:23 – Jonathan’s early career lessons and foundational experiences7:54 – The importance of financial acumen and business planning before going independent10:42 – Transitioning to institutional investment and structuring deals to attract capital17:48 – Challenges in real estate, including deal failures and market shifts25:11 – Keystone’s current market strategy and competitive advantage in deal execution29:29 – The role of reputation, vulnerability, and authenticity in building strong business relationshipsMentioned In Reputation and Relationship Building in Commercial Real Estate with Jonathan ZamirKeystones Equities, LLC | LinkedInEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Garvin Brown recently retired from Brown-Forman Corporation, the company behind Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, founded by his great-great-grandfather in 1870. His career with the company began as a wine salesperson in New York and evolved through various corporate and operational roles. By 2007, Garvin had become chairman, steering the company through key transitions between the fourth and fifth generations of the Brown family.Currently, Garvin serves on Brown-Forman's family-holding company board and contributes to global initiatives in democracy and development. He is also a board member of Dendrifund, a foundation dedicated to the sustainability of the elements essential to crafting premium bourbon.In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss sits down with Garvin Brown to explore his unique journey and the pivotal role of family governance in sustaining a multi-generational business. They discuss how Brown-Forman balances innovation with tradition, the company’s marketing and brand strategies, and the importance of financial discipline. Garvin also shares insights into navigating the challenges of leadership, managing stress, and building trust with stakeholders. Additionally, they delve into his philanthropic pursuits and his passion for community impact.1:27 – Garvin’s bicultural background and career journey at Brown-Forman5:06 – The economics of family businesses and surviving Prohibition8:42 – Non-family CEOs and the evolution of Brown-Forman’s governance model13:52 – Leveraging marketing, branding, and innovation to drive financial success20:59 – Managing stress, overcoming challenges, and fostering trust in leadership26:27 – Philanthropy and Garvin’s dedication to sustainability and community impactMentioned In Leadership and Governance in a Multi-Generational Business with Garvin BrownBrown-FormanHeadspaceDendrifundEnjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

In this episode of The Dealmaker’s Edge, Aaron Strauss is joined by Stephen Bittel, founder and chairman of Terranova Corporation. With over four decades of experience, Stephen shares his remarkable journey in real estate and offers insights on leadership, market strategy, and the importance of empathy in business.From his early days in Miami to managing an investment portfolio of over $1 billion, Stephen reflects on the lessons he’s learned while building one of South Florida’s leading commercial real estate firms. He delves into the value of cash flow, adapting to market cycles, and how aligning interests with partners leads to lasting success. Beyond business, Stephen discusses his commitment to giving back and the joy he finds in family and community.Key Takeaways:·         Success requires perseverance and a strong work ethic.·         Empathy and community service are integral to leadership.·         Building a loyal team is essential for long-term success.·         Adaptability and timing are critical in real estate investments.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Russ Krivor, CEO and Founder of Sovereign Properties, joins the podcast this episode. They discuss Russ's journey in real estate, the importance of education, navigating entrepreneurship, raising capital, market insights, the future of senior living, and the significance of building relationships in business. Russ shares valuable lessons learned throughout his career and emphasizes the need for innovative solutions in the evolving real estate landscape.TakeawaysEducation is crucial for success in business.Entrepreneurship requires timing and recognizing opportunities.Starting small in real estate can lead to significant growth.The current real estate market presents unique investment opportunities.There is a growing demand for senior living solutions.Today's seniors desire quality living environments and services.Managing stress is essential for effective decision-making.Building relationships is key to long-term success.Giving back to the community can open new opportunities.Balancing personal life and career is vital for happiness.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

On this episode, managing partner Aaron Strauss sits down with Robert Logan of B&D Holdings to explore the strategies driving their impressive growth in industrial real estate. Rob Logan is a Principal at B&D Holdings. Based in New Jersey, B&D Holdings is a privately held investment and development firm with a real estate portfolio of over 200 properties throughout 34 states. Their primary focus is on direct investments in industrial real estate.In his role, Rob is responsible for overseeing Acquisitions and Capital Markets. Prior to joining the team, he spent two years at G.S. Wilcox & Co. where he served as an originator on the commercial real estate capital markets advisory team. Prior to G.S. Wilcox, he worked at Newmark Knight Frank on their New York City based debt capital markets team and at ICAP in structured credit products.Rob has a Bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College in Economics and Latin American Studies and earned a Masters in Real Estate from New York University.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Yannis Papadakis is a Business Development Manager and Podcast Host at CREXi. Based in Los Angeles, CREXi is a commercial real estate community, marketplace, and technology company that simplifies transactions and accelerates business for brokers, buyers, agents and tenants. Yannis is responsible for building relationships with commercial real estate professionals from across the country and connecting, educating, and supporting them through CREXi’s platform. His real estate experience began at age 19, when he started managing a shopping center and 80,000 square-feet of retail space. From there, Yannis has worn many hats as a sales agent, property manager, auction manager, and investor. Yannis hosts the Crexi Podcast, which provides a window into the inner workings of commercial real estate for new and established real estate professionals. His guests include top producing brokers and real estate industry leaders from across the country. Yannis earned his undergraduate degree from Lynn University. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Jordan Kavana is the Founder and Chairman of ARK Homes for Rent, established in 2021. ARK Homes for Rent is a real estate investment company that owns, operates, and manages a nearly $2 billion portfolio of rental properties located across the Sunbelt of the United States.For nearly three decades, Jordan has built and led several successful ventures in real estate and private equity, including Transcendent Investment Management (established in 2008) and JL Real Ventures (established in 2004). Prior to that, Jordan founded a successful international consumer electronics company, which he sold in 2003. His career began with roles at Morgan Stanley's Private Wealth Management division and the finance and operations department of one of the continent's largest vacation property developers.Jordan is also a founding member of AIPAC’s Miami Club and holds key positions within YPO International, including Global Impact Officer for Mosaic and Engagement Officer for the Peace and Action Network. He is a graduate of Florida International University and has completed coursework at both Harvard University and Harvard Business School's President Management Program.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Boots Dunlap is the Co-founder and CEO of RRA Capital. With offices in midtown New York City and Phoenix, Arizona, RRA Capital is a real estate investment firm that provides customized debt products at institutional pricing for real estate sponsors across the United States. Notably, RRA is a Veteran-founded, owned, and operated real estate investment firm.Boots leads the investment strategy and strategic direction of RRA. He leverages over 15 years of experience consulting on and managing credit assets for banks, insurance companies, CMBS servicers, and private equity firms. Since co-founding RRA, Boots has overseen the origination and management of more than $1.5 billion in bridge loans and consulted lenders on over $2.4 billion in distressed commercial real estate.Prior to co-founding RRA, Boots served in the U.S. military as an Airborne-Ranger-qualified Infantry Officer in the 10th Mountain Division. Over his 10-years of military service, Boots led combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and supported global training missions in Kazakhstan, Korea, and Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Adam Heine is the CEO and President of both Consolidated Development Corporation and Camden Securities Company. He is also the founder of Great Hill Investments, LLC. At Camden Securities, Adam is responsible for overseeing all aspects of investment, development, and property management. Since joining Camden in 2009, he has successfully overseen the acquisition, development, and repositioning of over 2 million square feet of retail property and 8,000 multi-family units throughout the United States.  His current focus is on further growing the Companies’ national portfolio of mixed-use, multi-family and retail investments in U.S. cities and states with the criteria of growing populations, attractive environments for corporate operations, sound government fiscal policy and where demand clearly outstrips supply.  Prior to joining Camden, Adam spent 14 years in the capital markets while working for Morgan Stanley and Credit Suisse. Adam is a graduate of Denison University and a member of the Urban Land Institute and International Council of Shopping Centers.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

David Lubin is the founder and managing partner of Clairmont Group. Based in New York, Clairmont Group is a fully integrated real estate investment and management firm that invests in mixed-use, multifamily, hospitality, retail, office, and industrial assets. In his role, David oversees the firm’s strategic direction as well as acquisitions, development, and asset management. To date, David has closed over 50 transactions valued in excess of $2 billion. David’s experience includes investments in core, value-add, opportunistic, distressed real estate, note purchases, development, fund investments, and co-investments across all major asset classes.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

On this episode, Aaron Strauss is joined by Michael Sommer, Chief Development Officer at Kushner Companies. Michael oversees development and construction efforts across the entire Kushner portfolio which includes residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and industrial properties, over 12.9 million square feet currently under development, and over 26,500 apartments across 13 states. Michael’s storied real estate career includes over 27 years at the leading edge of development and construction. He’s developed more than 10 million square feet of residential, retail and office assets. Most notably, Michael led the development of over 6,000 residential units in New Jersey.Prior to Kushner, Michael served as Senior Vice President of Development and Construction at Cedar Realty Trust, a NYSE listed retail REIT with a portfolio spanning from Washington, D.C. to Boston.  Before Cedar, Michael was Executive Vice President of Development at Edison Properties where he led the redevelopment of the award-winning Ironside Newark in Newark, New Jersey.  Michael also served as Managing Director of Development at Advance Realty after starting his career at Premier Development.Michael holds an MBA from the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University and a bachelor’s in economics and business from Lafayette College. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Carl Wright is the founder and president of Wright Partners, a real estate development firm focused on the development, ownership and management of retail, industrial and healthcare properties. The firm is the exclusive developer for Patient First for Philadelphia and New Jersey as well as a preferred developer for brands like AutoZone, CVS and National Tire and Battery. Carl founded Wright Partners in 1998 to combine his passions for real estate, engineering, and construction. As of this writing, Wright Partners is on track to complete its 100th development project. Apart from real estate, Carl is a third-degree blackbelt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, an avid surfer, and an Ironman—having successfully completed a full Ironman race in Lake Placid, New York.Carl is a graduate of the University of Delaware, and a licensed Professional Engineer in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Managing partner Aaron Strauss sits down with Seth Weissman, founder and managing partner of Urban Standard Capital (“USC”). The Goldman Sachs and Perry Capital alum takes listeners through his career journey, lessons learned, and the steps he took to build USC into a fully integrated real estate private equity firm managing over $600 million in real estate equity and debt investments. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

On this episode, managing partner Aaron Strauss sits down with Michael Seeve to discuss his career, favorite deals, the current market, and his advice for those new to the real estate industry. Michael serves as President of Mountain Development Corporation (MDC) and guides the firm’s activities in close coordination with its executive team, professionals, and partners. Michael provides strategic leadership for the firm and works actively on many of the firm’s projects.Michael is a past President of the New Jersey Chapter of NAIOP, the State’s leading advocacy association for the commercial real estate development industry. The organization, which currently has more than 700 members just in New Jersey, focuses on public land use issues, professional advancement, and industry best practices.Michael serves as Chairman of the Board of William Paterson University, one of the State’s public higher education institutions and is a past Chairman of the University’s Foundation. Michael serves on the State of New Jersey Uniform Construction Code Advisory Board. He is also a past Chairman of the Paterson Special Improvement District, a public private partnership active in the central business district of the State’s third largest City. Michael is a past Chairman of the former Barnert Hospital Foundation. He has been recognized as Distinguished Friend in 2015 at William Paterson University’s annual gala, as Barnert Hospital’s “Man of the Year” at their 2006 gala, and included in the “Forty under 40” lists by NJ BIZ and Real Estate New Jersey magazine. Michael is a 1992 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. He lives in Montclair, New Jersey with his wife Veronica and their two sons.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

On this episode, managing partner Aaron Strauss sits down with Ezra Stark, CEO of Stark Enterprises. Founded in 1978 by Robert Stark, Stark Enterprises is a full-service commercial real estate development firm focused on Mixed-Use, Retail, Office, Student Housing, and Parking Facilities located across 7 States. As CEO, Ezra has grown Stark’s footprint to include over 9 Million square feet of Class A commercial properties that’s currently valued at over $2 billion. Before being tapped in May 2022 for the CEO role, Ezra held several leadership roles at Stark, including SVP of property management and later as COO. As a critical voice in the commercial real estate industry, Ezra regularly speaks on panels across the country, and shares perspectives on the market, investment, and what's coming in his "From the desk of the CEO" online article series.Ezra is a member and partner of the International Council of Shopping Centers (“ICSC”). He’s been recognized as one of Crain’s Cleveland Businesses’ “40 under 40” for his accomplishments in the real estate industry. He graduated from Brandeis University, and New York University's storied MBA program.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Gary Lipsky has been a real estate entrepreneur for over 20 years. He is the founder of an award-winning multifamily syndication business and has acquired over 3,000 apartment units valued at over $250MM.Gary is the host of the Real Estate Investor Podcast (available on Apple podcasts), where he interviews industry experts to provide a broad range education to investors. He is also the best-selling author of “Best in Class: How to Manage Your Multifamily Asset, Avoid Mistakes, and Build Wealth through Real Estate” (available on Amazon), founder of the Asset Management Summit, and a frequent guest speaker at investment conferences across the country.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

On this episode, managing partner Aaron Y. Strauss is joined by Michael Maturo, founding Managing Partner and President at RXR Realty (“RXR”), a multi-billion-dollar private real estate company, headquartered in New York. The RXR platform manages 84 commercial real estate properties and investments with an aggregate gross asset value of $21 billion. Prior to becoming President of RXR, Mr. Maturo served as President and Board member at Reckson Associates Realty Corporation (“Reckson”). To date, Michael has been involved in capital markets transactions that have totaled over $37 billion.  Mr. Maturo also serves on several outside Boards and Committees, serving as First Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Long Island Association, as well as a Member of its Executive Committee and Chairman of its Exonomic Development Committee. In December of 2012, Mr. Maturo was appointed by Governor Cuomo to the Board of Trustees of the Long Island Power Authority where he served as a Chairman of the Personnel and Compensation Committee until January 2014. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

In this episode, managing partner Aaron Strauss sits down with  Mark Cover, CEO for the Southwest region at Hines. Founded in 1957 by Gerald D. Hines, Hines is a privately-owned global real estate investment firm with over $95 billion in assets under management and more than 96 million square feet of assets for which it provides property-level services.As CEO for the Southwest region, Mark is responsible for key investment partner relationships and oversees all development, acquisition and operational activities in the Southwest, Mexico and Central America. Mark is also a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. He’s a graduate of Bob Jones University (Greenville, SC) and a retired CPA. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

James Nelson serves as Principal and Head of Avison Young’s Tri-State Investment Sales group based in New York City. Throughout his illustrious 25-year career, James has facilitated the sale of over 500 properties and loans, amassing an impressive total valuation exceeding $5 billion. Since the inception of James' sales team in 2018, their impressive performance has culminated in closing over 150 sales valued over $2.5 billion. Beyond his brokerage success, James is also an experienced investor, having launched two real estate funds with an impressive aggregate capitalization surpassing $350 million. He is an active contributor to the commercial real estate community and regularly imparts valuable industry lessons on his podcast, “The Insider’s Edge to Real Estate Investing” (available on Apple podcasts). His recent book, The Insider’s Edge to Real Estate Investing (available on his website and on Amazon) is a Wall Street Journal bestseller. James also guest lectures on real estate at prominent institutions such as Columbia, Fordham, NYU, Wharton, and his alma mater, Colgate. James has been recognized as one of Avison Young’s top sales professionals, included in Commercial Observer’s Power 100 and CoStar Power Broker, and awarded the Edward S. Gordan Deal of the Year award presented by REBNY. James has worked with notable clients such as The Archdiocese of New York, Breaking Ground, The Carlyle Group, JP Morgan Chase, Salvation Army, and Vornado, among others.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Ellie Perlman is the founder of Blue Lake Capital Group, a private investment and management firm focused on multifamily real estate in the United States. Ellie draws from over fifteen years of experience across real estate investment, law, and property management. At current, Blue Lake Capital owns and manages over 3,300 multifamily units across the U.S. Ellie’s professional journey has been featured in Forbes, Yahoo! Finance, and Globe Street, among others. She is a frequent guest contributor to industry publications on the topic of real estate investment. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Chris Okada is the CEO of Okada & Company, a privately-held, full-service commercial real estate brokerage and investment company based in New York City. To date, the Okada & Company has completed more than $1.5 billion of commercial sales and leasing transactions. Chris is also the founder of The Okada Acquisition Company, which focuses on acquiring prime office, retail, and multi-family properties in the Midtown and Midtown South submarkets of Manhattan. His insights have been featured in publications like The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Crain's New York, and many others. And he’s also the author of “From Fear to Fortune”, a special industry report on the decline and resulting opportunities in post-pandemic Manhattan real estate.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

John Usdan, CEO of Midwood Investment & Development. Founded in 1925 as a residential brokerage, Midwood is a vertically integrated investment, development and management platform focused on best-in-class mixed-use commercial and residential properties. John has spent the past 42 years helping Midwood amass a portfolio that includes over 130 properties across the U.S., and several million square feet in its development pipeline. John's leadership reflects Midwood’s mission statement, which is: “[t]o restore and revitalize the fabric of our urban centers, and to improve the way people live, work and play through industry-leading design, planning and execution.”In addition to Midwood, John is actively involved in several industry, non-profit and philanthropic initiatives. His current affiliations include: Trustee, The Brooklyn Academy of Music Chair, BAM's Strategic Planning Committee Board President, The Usdan Center Board Member, UJA Federation Board Member, The Hastings Center Board of DirectorsChair, Hastings Capital CampaignBoard Member, Corporate Board of Merchants National PropertiesJohn is Trustee Emeritus for Wesleyan University and a previous Trustee for Brandeis University. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

In our newest podcast episode, Aaron Strauss sits down with Matthew Weinstein, Partner & Head of Credit at Axonic Capital. Drawing from a background in CRE credit strategies, Matthew guides Axonic’s asset allocation, sector allocation, trading and investment management of over $4.5 billion AUM.Alongside the firm’s CIO/Managing Partner Clayton DeGiacinto, Matthew oversees Axonic’s asset allocation, sector allocation, trading and investment management. Matthew is responsible for the firm’s build-out of its commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and commercial real estate equity and debt businesses. He also serves as Head of the Real Estate Investment Committee. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Dan Kodsi is the CEO of Royal Palm Companies (RPC), a role he’s held since 1991. RPC is a leading Florida-based real estate and development firm that, under Dan’s leadership, has delivered over 6,000 units across mixed-use developments, multi-family, residences, and hospitality assets totaling over $3.5 billion in managed and completed projects to date. In 2011, Dan founded Participant Capital as the capital arm of RPC and a vehicle to empower individual investors to participate in ground-up construction projects.Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)

Salman Khan is the founder and managing principal of Stabilis Capital Management, a privately held investment firm focused on senior-secured, short-duration bridge loans collateralized by commercial real estate and commercial & industrial assets across the U.S. He founded the firm in 2010 and has raised over $1.7 billion since its inception. Stabilis is currently deploying its fifth fund.A graduate of Columbia University and the Wharton School of Business, Salman has a track record that includes building out cutting-edge business units at Goldman Sachs, managing a $600 million discretionary portfolio at Silverpoint Capital, and collectively managing more than $6 billion over the course of his career. Enjoy the show? Have a guest in mind?  Email us at [email protected] to let us know your feedback and who you want to hear on the next episode. Connect with Aaron and the A.Y. Strauss team:Our website (www.AYStrauss.com)  Aaron's website bio page  (Aaron's bio page) Aaron's LinkedIn account (LinkedIn) Our Twitter account (@AYStrauss)