NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Dave Ellis of Ellis Realty Advisors  http://ellisrealtyadvisors.com Dave works with businesses, developers, landlords, tenants, and investors to understand and anticipate their business needs. He aims to create real estate solutions that help clients succeed. He grew up swinging a hammer next to his father, building homes on the South Shore. He is always looking at all sides of the market and is proud to provide outstanding service to buyers and sellers, adding insight, creativity, and value to help clients achieve their vision.Ellis Realty Advisors is establishing Hingham's 4 Pond Park as a new hub for business collaboration on the South Shore. It will also serve as the firm's new headquarters. Dave will discuss what the project will mean for the future of Ellis Realty and the South Shore.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interview with Alex Brito of RKTB Architects   www.RKTB.com.   Alex is a registered architect in New York State and a member of both the American Institute of Architects and the National Organization of Minority Architects. I studied my craft at Spitzer School of Architecture and Environmental Studies (City College of New York) and since then have amassed decades of experience in design, production, and project management across a variety of sectors, including affordable, supportive and market-rate multi-family housing; transportation; civic and cultural works; and educational facilities. With RKTB since 1992, I rose through the ranks and was named a partner in 2015.I've worked extensively on pre-design phases of projects such as zoning analyses and NYC building code analyses, as well as designing and managing major projects like East Clarke Place Court, Salem House, Site 8 Apartments, Cathedral Gardens, Anchor House for Women, P.S.29Q, and The AirTrain terminal in Jamaica, Queens. Recently I was named a board member of the New York Citizens Housing & Planning Council (CHPC).

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Toni Dupell of EQUANS Services Inc.  www.equansservices.com       https://www.linkedin.com/in/toni-dupell/Toni talks about what EQUANS delivers a comprehensive suite of solutions that support mission‑critical environments. Our expertise includes Integrated Facilities Management, technical operations, asset management, building automation, and energy optimization. In the life science space, we help organizations maintain compliant, high‑performance facilities that enable research, development, and production without operational risk. We're here to fill the technical gaps traditional FM firms may miss in these highly technical environments.Sustainability is also a major focus for us. EQUANS partners with clients to reduce carbon footprints, improve building efficiency, and implement long‑term strategies that align with environmental goals while lowering operational costs. Thank you again for having me on the New England Real Estate Podcast today. I truly enjoyed our conversation and appreciated the opportunity to highlight my story, Women in Bio - Greater Boston, and the work we’re doing at EQUANS Services Inc., especially within the life sciences sector.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Matthew Fornaro, P A'www.fornarolegal.com As a business law attorney with over two decades of experience navigating commercial litigation, contract disputes, construction law, and real estate matters here in Florida, I’ve seen firsthand how legal strategy shapes the success and growth of companies, large and small.Since founding my practice, I’ve been passionate about supporting entrepreneurs as they launch new ventures, guiding them through regulatory challenges and helping them draft all the documents necessary for a strong start. My years in both regional and national law firms gave me a deep perspective on everything from intellectual property to homeowner association representation, and I actively mentor new attorneys and business owners through programs like the Kaufman Foundation’s FastTrac.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Michelle Hamilton of Answer Rocket.   www.answerrocket.com   Michelle spent 30 years as a strategic leader in Commercial Real Estate and the AEC sector before pivoting to solve one of the biggest problems in enterprise technology: the gap between AI investment and workforce adoption. She founded Spark AI Strategy and AI Class Lab to close that gap in the built environment, and was recently recruited by AnswerRocket, an enterprise AI transformation firm that partners with mid-market and Fortune 2000 companies across industries including Construction and Real Estate, to design and lead their new change management and AI implementation division."

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast Interviews Jay Pateakos Taunton Economic & Community Development.  Jay discusses how the City of Taunton is transforming to become a great place to live, to own a business and enjoy entertainment. I’ve been in Taunton for 2.9 years. We have helped to transform the downtown into a restaurant and performing arts destination, have worked to redevelop our largest apartment project from the ashes of our biggest rundown site at the former Whittenton Mills 42-acre site and more.  For information contact Jay:  [email protected]    (774) 406-9707  or find out more  https://www.taunton-ma.gov/

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Luis Mendonca of Elite Wellness Amenity Group.  www.elitewellnessamenitygroup.com  Luis CEO of Elite Wellness Amenity Group, and my work is very hands-on. I spend my time inside buildings, talking to residents, working with property teams, and figuring out what actually gets people to use amenities and stay longer. We’re taking underused gyms and turning them into active, supported wellness spaces that create real value for owners and residents, without asking for new construction or big capital spend.I also wrote The Elite Playbook, which came directly out of that experience and my own journey. The book is about what really drives resident retention, leadership under pressure, and building environments that put people first. I think your audience would appreciate an honest, operator-level conversation about what’s working, what isn’t, and where this space is actually headed.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviewsTallal Bhutta of BDB Construction Enterprises.  www.bdbenterprises.com    To raise awareness of the benefits of investing in conversions of hotels to student housing, as well as offer methods for faster project delivery in New York City, including methods similar to design-build approaches. It is also a chance to talk about how to overcome the challenges of Local Law 11 projectsWith academic degrees in construction management, structural and civil engineering and valuable experience with all aspects of building construction, Tallal Bhutta is founder and CEO of BDB Construction Enterprise LLC, a construction provider based on Staten Island and operating throughout the region. Steeped in his uncle's waterproofing and construction business in the late 1990s, Bhutta launched BDB in 2011 as a masonry and roofing contractor, and the company has progressively grown into a general contracting (GC) enterprise handling complex, multimillion-dollar renovation works. Recent projects by BDB include the transformation of a factory and warehouse building into a mixed-use church in the South Bronx, the 150-unit Brooklyn Watchtower housing development, renovations of a Manhattan building for Baruch College and New York University, the exterior restoration of the Renwick Hotel, as well as a 53-unit commercial conversion creating residences leased by Hunter College as student housing.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Jon Hilley of 1031Specialists  www.1301Specialsits   631-438-1031.Jon Hilley started his career at Goldman Sachs. 3 years ago, he founded 1031 Specialists, a Qualified Intermediary that facilitates 1031 exchanges for real estate investors across the country. They are growing rapidly and are already a top 10 firm in the industry.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews past co host Eric Wilson of Wallpen  www.walpen.com   Eric talks about the Wallpen system and and how it works,  making a mural on the side of a building or the lobby of an office and many other similar applications.I am someone who strives to do better today than yesterday and I continue that model in my everyday walk of life. I am the President of the New England Flying Disc Associaiton as well, it is 40 year old 501 c3 that has helped in funding in course installation across new England and New York.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Clay Lehman of Lehman Strategic Partners.www.imclaylehman.comClay talks about how he is  lifelong learner and serial entrepreneur.  I have been in real estate for 20 years as a Realtor, broker, property manager, title agent, and investor.  About 2 years ago, I started learning as much as I could about AI.  I started Lehman Strategic Partners to help real estate professionals evaluate and improve their business development strategy as well as implement operational improvements. Clay also tells how he uses AI in his business to save time and money.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Tom Sullivan Jr. of Sullivan Construction.  www.sullivanconstruction.com   Tom  talks about how he enjoys learning from others and contributing where I can, whether through experience, lessons learned, or simply asking the right questions. Being on a podcast feels like sitting down at a table with others who care, and that’s always worth doing.Volunteer activities: Board member of Meals on Wheels;  Board Member of the Mary and John Elliot Charitable Foundation (Elliot Hospital); board member of Associated Builders and Contractors of NH/VT, Board Member of the Business & Industry AssociationOn the personal side, getting married this past fall! On the business side, rising to the role of president for Sullivan Construction this January.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Edd Hamzanlui of MassCan Capital. Edd is the founder and principal of MassCan Capital, a mission-driven real estate development firm focused on middle-income and workforce housing across Massachusetts. Over the past two decades, I’ve worked across real estate finance, architecture, construction, and development—having underwritten and managed over $4.3 billion in affordable and mixed-income housing projects nationally.At MassCan, I’m currently leading several high-impact housing developments in Gateway Cities, including the adaptive reuse of a historic mill into 89 residential units in Fall River, and new affordable homeownership projects in Lawrence. My work blends creative deal structuring with public subsidy programs like Historic Tax Credits, HDIP, and MassHousing's CommonWealth Builder to bring supply online where it’s needed most.I hold an MBA from Chicago Booth and two graduate degrees in construction management and architecture. I’m passionate about building attainable housing and reshaping development patterns to support inclusive growth in our cities.I love to talk about the real challenges and opportunities in creating housing that working families can actually afford—especially in Gateway Cities. We can dive into how public incentives like Historic Tax Credits, HDIP, and the CommonWealth Builder program can unlock complex deals, the importance of zoning reform to enable more supply, and how developers can balance mission and margin. I’d also like to share real stories from projects I’m leading—what’s worked, what’s surprised me, and what local leaders and investors need to know to move the needle on housing.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Matt Combs of Erland Construction  www.erland.com .  Matt joined Erland in 2011 after graduating from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Engineering. I began my career in our Connecticut office, where I had the opportunity to work on two large mixed-use developments and a residential high-rise project. In 2016, I relocated to our corporate headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts. Today, I serve as the Manager of Erland’s Advanced Technology/Life Sciences Group, where I oversee several active projects and have had the privilege of building long-standing partnerships with clients like EMD Serono. Earlier this year, I married my longtime partner, Lauren, and in my free time, I enjoy taking on home improvement projects—especially anything involving carpentry.I’d like to use this opportunity to discuss the importance of strategic campus planning for corporate clients, with a focus on topics like master planning, long-term growth strategies, and the execution of capital projects. These types of initiatives are complex and often evolve over time, so having the right construction partner involved early in the process can make a significant difference. By engaging Erland during the planning stages, we’re able to offer valuable insights on feasibility, budgeting, phasing, and constructability—ultimately helping clients make more informed decisions that align with both their short-term needs and long-term vision. Our proactive approach not only reduces risk and unexpected costs but also ensures smoother project execution and better outcomes across the board.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interview with Neil Cohen of Barsh and Cohen P.C..  www.barsh-cohen.com    Neil Cohen, Managing Partner and President of Barsh and Cohen, P.C. I’ve had the privilege of leading this firm through a period of growth and modernization while staying true to its deep family roots and client-first values. My background as a collegiate athlete taught me discipline, strategy, and teamwork—principles I apply daily in my legal practice and in leading our team.Barsh and Cohen has grown to serve clients across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and nationally for title and equity lending services. We’ve built long-standing relationships with banks, mortgage lenders, developers, and title companies by consistently delivering both legal excellence and personal attention. Some accomplishments include:- Over the past year, I have led several complex and high-stakes real estate matters that underscore my exceptional capabilities and impact. Among them is The Alice, a high-profile mixed-use development at 203 Lowell Street in Wilmington, Massachusetts. I served as lead counsel to the owner during the acquisition, title work, and construction financing.- I also distinguished myself in a significant Land Court matter before the Chief Justice and Chief Title Examiner of the Massachusetts Land Court. The case involved the reformation of a certificate of title and the certification of assignments and foreclosure documents at the Barnstable County Registry of Deeds.- In another standout engagement, I acted as title counsel for a publicly traded, multi- state cannabis operator during a $62 million financing transaction. The deal spanned five properties across three states, requiring deep coordination between local title standards and lender requirements.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Jen Smith of AT Work Collaborative.  Jen talks about her journey to get to where she is today. For more information on Jen's weekly news letter with industry events and job opportunities email her: [email protected]  or go to www.atworkcollaborative.com .The At Work Collaborative, people are sometimes surprised when I say my role isn’t about the nuts and bolts of furniture. My real focus is assembling the best team of people to help our clients meet their goals. I believe my job is to make other people’s jobs easier, and I do that by connecting, listening, and showing up. That’s where my passion for community involvement, inclusion, and mental health comes into play. I’m all about making things easier for our clients. Contract furniture can be complicated, so I use my network to connect the dots—bringing in the right people and resources to move projects forward smoothly. I help assemble the best team for the job and make sure our clients feel supported every step of the way, from planning to install. My goal is to take the stress off their plate and help them get exactly what they need. Its on me to use emotional intelligence to anticipate and understand the client’s needs, and to hear what they’re saying without saying it. I also create a safe space for the client to give feedback because when we improve everyone wins.Outside of work, I stay active in the industry and community. I co-chair United Way’s Real Estate Celebration, serve on At Work Collaborative’s DEI committee, and I’m a proud Big Sister mentor of 10 years. I also send out a bi-weekly AEC event calendar to over 1,000 people—because I believe everyone should have a seat at the table and know where the table is.I’ve also co-founded two fun, inclusive networking events: the Bush League Ski Club, which gathers about 400 people each winter, and the annual Croquet After Party, now in its 4th year, which brings together about 300 people across the industry. On a personal note, I love travel, live music, skiing, golf—and I’m always down for an adventure.Ultimately, I’m here to connect, contribute, and help build stronger, more inclusive communities—one relationship at a time.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Mark Silverman of Mark's Moving & Storage, Inc..  https://www.marksmoving.com  marksfurniturefoundation.org  (508) 889-0640 .   In 1979, Mark was a student at Northeastern University and while many college students were spending money on their social lives, he needed to spend my money on school. But first he had to earn it.Students needed moving help every semester, so he decided to become a mover. He had never worked as a mover. He just purchased a small van with a credit card hoping to make a few extra dollars to pay tuition.Eventually, the business became Mark’s sole focus. One Man and a Van became Mark’s Moving & Storage. Over the years, he recognized the need for a steadfast philosophy, so he built the business around guaranteeing 100 percent customer satisfaction.Nearly 46 years later, He is still looking for opportunities to help people.Mark also created Marks Northeastern Furniture Foundation and collects over 12 trailer loads of lightly used and new goods each year and works with Greater Boston non-profits to share that treasure with local families in need.  Mark also founded TheStorageCompany.com, a premier source for warehousing and transportation of medical equipment, machinery, fixtures, and high-value products.Additionally, Mark invested in and manages Massachusetts Portable Storage, a company that offers convenient and flexible portable storage options for short-term and long-term needs.The company has grown the company from a small local business to a regional leader, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers across Massachusetts and beyond.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Joseph Aquino President of JAACRES & Author of Memoir of a Watch Salesman A NYC Real Estate Story available: www.memoirsofawatchsalesman.com   Discount coupon: 007Joseph A. Aquino, President of JAACRES, is one of the most accomplished and respected names in commercial real estate. With a career spanning 40 years, Joseph has built an extraordinary track record representing luxury brands, fast fashion retailers, restaurants, industrial users, hotels and blue-chip office tenants in New York City and all major U.S. markets — from Beverly Hills to Miami, Boston, Las Vegas, Atlanta., and beyond.His unique strength lies in his versatility. Joseph is a rare broker who excels at both tenant and landlord representation. He understands the needs of the C-suite and speaks their language, making him a trusted advisor to CEOs, founders, and ownership groups alike. Whether he’s guiding an international brand’s U.S. expansion or curating the ideal tenant mix for a Class A office building or luxury property on a high-street, Joseph brings strategy, integrity, and results to every deal.Over the years, he has worked with some of the most influential property owners and developers in the country — the visionaries behind many of Manhattan’s most iconic addresses. Joseph was the driving force behind numerous notable leases and building sales across Manhattan and Fifth Avenue, including retail & townhouses on Madison Avenue, off Fifth Avenue, and luxury flagships on 57th Street, Soho, Nolita and more.Joseph is also the Founder and President of The SBS Group, a global business development network connecting luxury retailers with property owners across key markets. The SBS Group operates in cities like Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cape Town, Belfast, and Dublin, and brings together decision-makers from Europe, Asia, North America, and South Africa.What sets Joseph apart is his global perspective, his deep understanding of both retail and office markets, and his relentless commitment to helping clients succeed — whether by identifying emerging opportunities, negotiating favorable terms, or guiding a brand’s entry into a new market.Joseph Aquino doesn’t just make deals — he builds legacies.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Deborah Smith Co-Founder & CEO of The CenterCap Group.  Deb is a trailblazer at the crossroads of real estate and finance. She’s passionate about real estate, all its asset classes, and mostly in finding the best solutions for her clients. That said, the size of her firm, her ability to see around corners, and capability to nimbly operate on all sides of a transaction makes way for creative transactions. She gets outside the box and is almost always out ahead on trends before the rest of the industry. She’d be a wonderful guest to discuss early trends and what she’s seeing and hearing on the ground.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast Interviews Andrew LaFuente of LaFuente Sign & Awning. Andrew started working in the trade at just 12 years old, as an apprentice, and it sparked a lifelong passion for craftsmanship and design. In 2015, I founded LaFuente Sign & Awning, and since then, the company has grown into one of the premier custom awning manufacturers in Greater Boston. Something very important to me throughout the years has been making my business successful enough that I am able to spend more time with my daughter. We serve residential, commercial, and industrial clients, and I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done. One recent example is the Boston sports mural and signing at Title City barbers, where many notable Boston sports players frequent for their haircuts. Our innovative designs, combined with our commitment to quality, have really set us apart. Over the years, we’ve modernized the way awnings are built, incorporating new materials and techniques that push the boundaries of traditional construction. It's been a true labor of love to see my company grow and evolve.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Ruberto, Israel & Weiner Attorney's Adam Barnosky and Chris Agostino.  Adam Barnosky chairs RIW’s Restaurant & Hospitality Practice Group and handles alcoholic beverage licensing, commercial real estate, and corporate transactions for the retail, restaurant, and hospitality industries; including the representation of restaurant groups, hotels, sports and entertainment companies, food halls, retailers, hospitality lenders, and award-winning chefs and operators. He completed the Boston Future Leaders program in 2023 and was recently named a 2024 Top Lawyer by Boston Magazine for the 4th year in a row and a 2024 Massachusetts Super Lawyer.Chris Agostino is a shareholder and serves as business counsel to clients across a range of industries, including commercial real estate, construction, lending, manufacturing, hospitality, retail sales and services, and transportation, including carriers and brokerages. His practice covers the lifecycle of most privately held businesses from entity formation, joint ventures, contracts, employment matters, and commercial finance, to mergers and acquisitions, business succession planning, "business divorces" and creditors’ rights. He was named a Top Lawyer by Boston Magazine in 2024.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast Interviews Kyle Dupell of Erland Construction. Kyle talks about his Journey in the industry and how Advanced Technology  and Life Sciences have grown into our industry. As Project Executive at Erland Construction, I bring an extensive background and a robust client network in the lab and manufacturing space. My academic journey began at Norwich University, where I earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Architecture. These foundational experiences instilled in me a deep understanding of the built environment and the importance of collaboration across disciplines.Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of working for several organizations spanning construction management, real estate development, and architecture. These diverse roles have equipped me with a holistic perspective on project execution, enabling me to navigate complex challenges and deliver value-driven results for clients.Since joining Erland, I’ve been dedicated to enhancing our advanced technology and life sciences offerings. One of my key contributions has been reestablishing our COLAB Solutions model, a platform that fosters seamless collaboration and innovation in project delivery. This initiative has strengthened our ability to address the unique demands of highly specialized facilities, emphasizing efficiency, adaptability, and client satisfaction.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Jonathan Crandall of JC Grounds. Jon Crandall, founder and visionary behind JC Grounds Management, specializing in Commercial Snow and Ice Management in New England. Over the past 28 years, I have transformed a small lawn-mowing endeavor into a sophisticated operation, deploying over 1,000 people per snow event, backed by cutting-edge technology. As a former Chairman of the Board for the Snow and Ice Management Association (SIMA), I have contributed significantly to setting industry standards. I recently authored a book on snow removal best practices, with all proceeds going to charity.Jon discussed the innovations and challenges in snow and ice management, the impact of technology and data in improving service delivery, and strategic insights from my book, "Snow Removal Solutions for Property Managers." By sharing my journey and the lessons learned from engaging deeply with property managers, I aim to provide valuable advice to those on the buy side of snow and ice services in the real estate industry.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/ NYREJ Podcast interviews Dov Hertz of DH Property Holdings. The real estate industry is entering a new cycle with a new administration, and there are a host of critical issues that will affect owners and developers.  My experience as a developer for residential and hospitality assets, as well as my experience as an industrial real estate developer, enable me to provide insight into the forces that will shape the industry over the next several years.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Ngan Han President, Kristen Hurley Executive Director and Justin MacEachern of Gilbane Building. The group talks about how  To help bring exposure to the ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston, discuss the positive impacts that the organization has done over the years and to get more local firms involved.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of the NEREJ / NYREJ Podcasts Guest this  week is Jonathan Garland  Of JGE Architecture + Design / JGE Development LLC,  In 2018 I founded two separate Boston-based, minority owned firms with a focus on commercial architecture and real estate development. Together the two firms form JGE, otherwise known as J. Garland Enterprises. Before launching into private practice, I served at director and associate principal level positions at design firms in Boston and New York. After nearly 25 years in the industry, I have been fortunate to work on an array of building and project types, ranging in scale, use, context and location. Some award winning and others on a very tight budget. Nonetheless they each provide an invaluable learning opportunity from which to grow, and in-turn convey to others. Our dual practices today share the belief that we bear a social responsibility to build, equitably, sustainably and contextually -- that in many ways defines our mission and allows us to evolve to more directly meet the needs of our communities.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Mitchell Korbey of Herrick, Feinstein LLP.  Mitchell Talks about why City of Yes is a timely piece of legislation that, if approved, will dramatically change the city's housing landscape and make a big dent in the issue of affordable housing. I think your audience would find it interesting to hear about the specifics impacts of the finalized version on the city, and how this can serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives to spur housing development. More broadly, I can also talk about how zoning can be a tool to make progress in on pressing problems that impact both the city's real estate market and the economy.Tell us a little about yourself and some accomplishments:  I'm a partner, and chair of Herrick's Land Use & Zoning Group. Mitch is an accomplished urban planner and land use attorney with more than 30 years of experience in private practice and government service. Mitch is a former Commissioner of the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA), a former director of the Department of City Planning's (DCP) Brooklyn office, and a former deputy director of DCP’s Staten Island office.

Send us Fan MailHost Rick Kaplan of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast with Brett Mercer and Steven  Chick of Greek Real Estate Partners.  Brett talk about his believes that exploring the state of the industrial logistics market in the Northeast will provide valuable insight for members of the industry, from investors and developers to space occupiers.  The industry finds itself at a critical moment, coming out of a restrictive rates environment and possibly moving into a period of greater investment and development activity with both existing and ground-up facilities. Discussing solutions to challenges faced by the industry is especially relevant as industry members seek to build and upgrade facilities to meet both the current and future demands of occupiers, preparing for new technology and an evolving landscape for power and distribution. Steven will provide detailed insight into the mechanics and processes that enable industrial real estate owners and developers to reimagine and reposition existing facilities that may benefit from upgrades to technology and layout that create greater efficiency and meet the specific needs of current industrial space occupiers. The design/build process provides a cost-effective approach to repositioning and to new developments and expansions, reducing time and delivering a product with greater utility and value to owners and occupiers.

Send us Fan MailHost Rick Kaplan of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Aeran Doron of Suffolk Construction. Aeran brings a unique perspective on the New York City construction industry for NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast listeners to enjoy. Aeran discusses how Suffolk is redefining the way they build through investments in innovative technology, data solutions, and artificial intelligence. Aeran also talks about current trends for the market, including the public sector, and about the new technology and Suffolk mentorship programs that are available for younger people interested in the industry.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews Kevin Deabler of Rode Architects. Kevin is a design professional who has been immersed in Boston’s building and design community for nearly two decades, Kevin is eager to connect with the NEREJ’s audience about the current landscape. He has been at the forefront of major projects and innovation at the intersection of design and sustainability, in and around Boston, and can offer a unique perspective for your listeners. He brings a passion for talking about architecture, design, and the real estate scene in Boston, and the timing is wonderful for him to join as a guest, as RODE Architects is in the midst of growth momentum with the acquisition of a fellow Boston firm, McMahon Architects, earlier this month.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Randy Eckers of Reed Smith LLP. Randy  has more than 20 years of experience as a real estate finance attorney, he represents large lending institutions, private equity funds, debt funds, banks, bond investors, C-PACE lenders and administrators, and property owners in a wide variety of commercial real estate financing, structured financing, and secondary market transactions. This past fall he was honored by the New York Real Estate Journal as visionary in the industry, and in February 2023 was named a top rainmaker in commercial real estate finance.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews John Schultzel of Olympia Hospitality.  John began his career working in hotels and restaurants after earning his B.A. from Wesleyan University in 1991 and a Master of Management in Hospitality from the Hotel School at Cornell University.  After more than a decade in various operating roles, he migrated to asset management with Host Hotels and then joined Olympia in 2001.  With a balanced understanding of owner and operator perspectives, John has guided Olympia’s new development and growth opportunities over the last 2 decades.  In that time, Olympia Hospitality has distinguished itself as a leading operator of boutique hotels specializing in campus hospitality and leisure destinations.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Fraidy Rapaport of Upscale Equities.  Fraidy discusses her journey in the mortgage industry.  I've been in the mortgage industry for more than two decades now, and let me tell you, it's been quite the journey. I've had the privilege of helping over 1,250 individuals/ clients and their families achieve the dream of homeownership, and there's nothing quite like the feeling of handing over the feeling of safety, security, and structure.Some of my proudest accomplishments are the following:- Closing over $130,000,000 worth of loans.- Successfully overcoming the biggest financial crisis (08) and being able to be in business as long as I have.- Being able to successfully help & guide multiple first-time homebuyers with unique and different situations.- Being an amazing, loving, responsible, and caring mother of 8 wonderful children that never cease to amaze me.Beyond that, I'm deeply passionate about educating others about the ins and outs of the mortgage process. Whether it's breaking down complex financial concepts or offering practical advice for first-time homebuyers, I'm always eager to share my knowledge and expertise.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews  Yiannes Einhorn Principal of Grid Group.  Grid Group offers a full suite of real estate development services. Our projects reflect a hands-on commitment to quality and craft with a meticulous attention to detail. We built 124 West 16th Street, the only Manhattan development to launch during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and completely sell out in less than a year, and 246 West 16th Street, which sold out in three weeks in 2021.  Coming full circle and developing 601 Baltic, a boutique condominium near where I grew up. Also building our largest project to date: 145 Central Park, located directly on Central Park.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews Stephen Wendel of Mountain Shore Properties. Stephen is a national commercial real estate developer (who is based between Fort Greene, Brooklyn and Charleston) with a focus on the Hudson Valley market in addition to many interesting submarkets throughout the country like NuLu in Louisville. He opened a hotel called Camptown in Leeds, New York last year, which is a partnership with the owners of Rivertown Lodge, one of the most popular boutique hotels in Hudson on Warren Street. Camptown was just featured on Esquire’s list of the “41 Best New Hotels in North America, Europe, and Beyond for 2024.”Camptown was an off market purchase of a former motor lodge which had been in the same family since the 1930s. Stephen met a commercial broker who specializes in the Hudson Valley while staying at a B&B in Greece who brought the opportunity to his attention. A lengthy renovation process began two weeks before the pandemic and faced supply chain delays and inflation spikes.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Jerry Rosengarten.Jerry Rosengarten is a Brooklyn-born serial entrepreneur whose greatest skill is an extraordinary ability to perceive form and structure–and opportunity–from within disorder, including developing products to deal with dyslexia, reimagining real estate, and investing early and heavily in solar energy. Rosengarten’s life of invention has led to substantial commercial success. His first big hit came in the 1970s with the leisure suit, which became a cultural fashion phenomenon that stoked his confidence and staked his growing desire to build landmark New York City projects like the Lofts and the A-list destination, The Bowery Hotel. Today, Rosengarten built and owns one of the largest private solar farms in the Northeast, located on Long Island’s eastern tip, and his creative passions are finely focused on environmental stewardship and active advocacy for those suffering from learning disabilities.     https://www.jumponthetrainbook.com/

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Greg Vasil CEO of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board. Greg discussed the housing issues in the greater Boston area. For more information on this organization www.gbreb.com

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast Interviews Frank Callahan President of Mass. Building Trades Unions. Frank talks about Helmets to Hardhats, an important non-profit organization that assists Veterans in obtaining a career in the trades unions.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Jeremy Casey of SR Commercial. Jeremy Jeremy Casey is a founder and the Managing Partner of SR Commercial Realty. SR Commercial is an innovative commercial real estate advisor specializing in retail and industrial properties in MA & CT. The brokerage  has a focused approach to  clients and their properties by providing exceptional Responsiveness, Communication and Marketing.With over 15 years of extensive commercial real estate and lending experience Jeremy started the commercial brokerage in 2017 with himself and one other agent. He has grown the business to where it is today having closed over 500 commercial real estate transactions and now has a team of 10 agents and 2 operations staff.  Jeremy's entrepreneurial journey started long before the success of SR Commercial.  His first start up was Name Net Worth, a software company in Springfield, MA in 2014. He shares his unstoppable passion for entrepreneurship conducting workshops with many high schools and colleges in the Northeast such as, University of Hartford, Rhode Island, Western New England, and Westfield State to coach students delivering programs like: “How to Harness Your Inner Entrepreneur” and “Networking 101: Making Business Happen”.Jeremy is a Rotary International Paul Harris recipient as well as a Business West’s 40 under 40 award winner. He is heavily involved in the Western Massachusetts community where he has served as a President of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, as a Director of the board of The Rotary Club of Springfield, co-founder of Suit Up Springfield, and Vice President of the Board of Directors at Pathlight, Inc.Outside the office Jeremy has been known for doing voiceover work, stand-up comedy, and even rapping on stage with well-known artists

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Alex Cwiakala and Harrison Bonner of Wollaston Real Estate Investments. Alex and Harrison are two exciting new real estate developers with a vision. They are focusing on the western part of Massachusetts and developing a 27million portfolio in that region.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of the NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interview with Jonathan Adelsberg of Herrick, Feinstein LLP.  Jonathan has a Partner in the Real Estate Department at Herrick, Feinstein LLP for 28 years, where I also serve as Co-Chair of the Real Estate Department and Chair of Commercial Leasing. My work focuses on a range of complex real estate transactions, including sales, acquisitions, developments, financing, restructuring, leases, joint venture, and construction. I also serve as an advisor for many prominent NYC real estate families, assisting with an arrange of legal matters, including succession planning, wealth and legacy preservation, conflict resolution, and the division of family empires. Finally, through my work with Herrick’s commercial leasing practice, I advise tenants and landlords in office and retail leases throughout the U.S. and alongside international retailers.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast interviews Pietro Barberi of GTL Construction in NJ. As Vice-President Pietro is responsible for management of the entire programming, planning, design, construction and move-in process from commencement through project closeout. He has managed the construction of live data center expansions, state-of-the art fitness centers and cafeterias, mixed-use residential projects, office interiors, and has been responsible for the implementation of leading-edge construction strategies.  Pietro’s skills—combined with his dedication and “can-do” attitude—are valuable assets to GTL clients.Pietro brings solid expertise in just about every aspect of the construction life cycle to each of his engagements. Pietro has been involved with MEP infrastructure projects, as well as disaster recovery projects in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. He is responsible for all financial aspects of the firm including budget, cost control and management/mentoring of staff. He has extensive experience in negotiating material costs and terms with vendors/suppliers, prepared contracts with prospective clients and negotiated with executive-level members of financial institutions. Additionally, he works closely with the design team on each project, reviewing CDs, helping devise value-engineering solutions, conducting construction meetings and negotiating scope changes. All these qualities have assisted in delivering projects on time and within budget.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan the host of NEREJ/ NYREJ Podcast Interview with Joe DiPompeo of Structural Workshop. Joe talks about the new regulations in NJ and NY for Facades and Parapets and when they should be inspected with the new regulations.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ/NYREJ Podcast Interviews Steve Emerson sales manager for Norfolk Multi-Family. Steve talks about the multi generational family business that has seen tremendous growth from a plumbing supplier to plumbing, kitchen and bath cabinets for multi-family. Norfolk Multi-family is suppling multi-family property owners all over New England.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ/ NYREJ Podcast interviews Scott Baryyiewski  president of South Shore Construction.  He is active in the community and with several industry specific organizations. South Shore Construction specializes in Facade and parking garage ordinances.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast Interviews Harrison Klein Head of Marcus & Millichap / The Klein Group. Harrison runs a seven person brokerage team focused on industrial and office properties in New England. We've sold $200+ million in each of the past three years, approximately 20 sales per year. I am actively writing for NEREJ on capital markets topics. I graduated from University of Miami and have been in the CRE business for 12 years. We focus primarily with private clients with deal sizes in the $1-$20 million range. Harrison talks about the greater Boston Office and Industrial market.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan Host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast Interviews Rhonda Wong CEO of OHMYHOME. Rhonda tells her story of how they developed and grew their company to where it is today. Ohmyhome, a Singaporean proptech company that has recently been listed on the Nasdaq. I would like to help inform an American audience on the benefits of investing in the Singaporean real estate market.Me and my sister, Race Wong, are entrepreneurs who founded Ohmyhome in 2016 with the goal of making housing transactions simple, efficient and affordable. In March of 2023 we had an IPO Listing on the Nasdaq, making it the first female-only founded proptech comapny in the US. Currently we operate primarily in Singapore and the Philippines.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews Eric Brody of ANEX Real Estate Partners. With decades of experience as a builder and developer in the NYC mid-market multifamily sector, Eric founded ANAX Real Estate Partners last year – a privately-held, New York City-based real estate developer, lender, and investment firm. Given the current market, ANAX is providing much-needed capital and development expertise to distressed assets across New York City. Since traditional lenders have become more cautious over the last year, ANAX presents a unique opportunity for rescue capital by leveraging its proprietary technology, technical expertise, and industry relationships to adapt to the market cycle and fill the financial gap, resulting in a solution for struggling developers and investors.Eric intends to deploy $150-$200 million in rescue capital into stalled assets across NYC over the next 18 months. He stands firm in his belief that tailoring the correct rescue capital strategy to an asset can infuse it with the vital components for sustainable success.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews Rick Tokarski of Tokarski Millemann Architects.  Rick talks about the different designs and projects they have worked on how he enjoys when a client brings them a challenge.  Rick would like to reach building owners and real estate developers and share information about design / architecture.

Send us Fan MailRick Kaplan host of NEREJ / NYREJ Podcast interviews Scott Shnay of SK Development. Scott talks about the history of SK Development and is journey in the family business. Scott has  been in the real estate industry for almost 20 years, and have a lot of experiences and expertise that I think your audience would like to hear about. I am working on many exciting projects that offer unique opportunities and offerings to local New York communities.