The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition: Recent Episodes
Marc Radio
The goal of The Crossman Conversation is to find solutions for the tough problems and challenges being faced today by those who need a different perspective outside of his/her family or work circles. “We want to hear from young professionals embarking on a career, and business owners or CEOs who need advice on work-life balance, or promoting a better work environment that may mitigate any systemic issues and move toward growth.” - John Crossman
In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman sits down with Rick Baldocchi, a leader at AVCON and one of the country’s go-to experts in airport design and infrastructure. Rick shares the fascinating story of how Orlando International Airport grew from a modest regional terminal to a major international hub — and how that transformation helped shape his three-decade career as an engineer.
From expanding airports across the nation to navigating complex logistics, safety protocols, and public infrastructure challenges, Rick dives deep into what it really takes to build an airport — not just runways and terminals, but collaboration with government officials, community stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.
He also shares impactful advice for young professionals: be curious, ask questions, and never stop learning. Whether you're interested in engineering, leadership, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story about how your airport works, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman is joined by Dr. Josh Harris—real estate economist, educator, and thought leader—for a wide-ranging discussion on today’s hottest real estate trends and how parents can best support their children through the challenges of college life. Dr. Harris offers expert commentary on the current state of the market, investment strategies to watch, and his personal perspective on parenting with purpose during the college years. Whether you're a real estate professional or a parent navigating the college journey, this episode delivers insight, encouragement, and practical advice.
In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman sits down with Dr. Greg Smersh, Professor of Real Estate at the University of South Florida. Dr. Smersh shares his expert perspective on the current state of the real estate market, emerging trends, and what aspiring professionals should be watching. He also offers practical, actionable advice for college students on how to stand out and build lasting careers in the real estate industry.
On this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John sits down with Ashish Gupta—serial entrepreneur, former Apple exec, and founder of ScaleUpExec. Ashish shares proven strategies to help real estate leaders scale their businesses, boost team performance, and lead with clarity. Tune in for practical, growth-driven advice from a leader who’s transformed 20+ companies.
In this episode, John Crossman sits down with Barney McAuley to discuss the evolving landscape of commercial real estate. Together, they explore the future of malls, how developers and investors are adapting to shifting consumer behaviors, and what leadership looks like in the post-DEI era. From strategic planning to inclusive innovation, this conversation dives into the complexities facing retail estate professionals today.
In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman sits down with Dwight Stephenson of Blue Vista to discuss the current state of the national real estate market and Blue Vista's role in providing capital solutions. From market trends to investment strategies, Dwight shares insights on how capital providers are adapting to industry shifts and what investors should consider in today's economic landscape. Tune in for a deep dive into the financial side of real estate and expert perspectives on navigating the market successfully.
When should you consider selling your business? John Crossman visits with Rob Levin to discuss the most important decision a small business can make.
In this episode of The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman sits down with Jonathan Wolf to discuss the critical issue of affordable housing and its impact on Central Florida. They explore the challenges, opportunities, and solutions shaping the region's housing landscape and what it means for communities and businesses alike. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of the industry's leading voices.
Geno Jarquin discusses the commercial real estate of the largest retirement community in the US and his personal journey of success and learning.
Grad school can be a transformative step for business professionals and students alike. Dr. Joshua Harris, Executive Director of the Fordham Real Estate Institute, dives into how an advanced degree can sharpen leadership skills, build influential networks, and provide a competitive edge in today's business world. Whether you're advancing your career or preparing to enter the industry, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of your next big move.
Bob Ziegenfuss is an engineer with an entrepreneurial eye for success. He has over 30 years of experience in the commercial land development field, helping all client types through his company, Z Development Services. This UCF alumnus is passionate about helping his clients maximize their investment.
In this episode, we sit down with Brendon Dedekind, Market Leader and Principal for Trammell Crow Company's Orlando office. Brendon shares his take on what's next for industrial development in 2025 and beyond. From industry trends to leadership for the next generation of CEOs, this conversation is packed with insights!
Alex Evans - Colliers Orlando Market leader - provides an overview of the real estate market and advice to young professionals.
We sit down with Ronald Altoon, a legendary figure in architecture, to explore the vital role of design in fostering community and connection. Ronald shares his insights on combating societal isolation through thoughtful real estate projects and retail spaces that bring people together. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about how architecture can shape a more connected and inclusive world.
The 30 Minute City by Dr. Joshua Harris. Dr. Harris shares his insights on how the most successful cities are where people can live their lives within 30 minutes of their homes.
Industry expert Jay Ballard shares key insights into the multifamily real estate market, covering trends in new developments and existing projects. Plus, he offers essential career advice for young brokers aiming for success. Don't miss Jay's expert take on today's market and tips for building an exceptional real estate career.
Josh Harris, the Senior VP of CrossMARC Services, joins John Crossman for a timely conversation on the impact he expects stemming from the current election cycle. Harris is one of the most influential leaders in the commercial real estate industry. He also serves as the executive director of Fordham University's Real Estate Institute.
Eddy Benoit founded the Benoit Group more than 14 years ago. He received a Bachelor's Degree from UF, and a Master's from Southern Polytech University. Eddy has a passion for commercial real estate development and currently has $3 billion in development.
Nick Fouraker has been Mayor of the Orange County City of Belle Isle for more than 5 years. He also has more than 10 years of commercial real estate experience with some leading firms in Central Florida. With his wife Amy, they co-founded 4 Acre Commercial in downtown Orlando. A real component to his success is Nick's commitment to building genuine relationships in the community.
Eddy Moratin serves as a bridge between the community and its businesses and government leaders. He is Co-Founder and President of Lift Orlando, an organization that works to strengthen neighborhoods in the heart of the City of Orlando. Of Eddy, John Crossman says: "Eddy personifies leadership and is highly respected and appreciated for all he does for the Community."
All property owners take their ownership of real estate very seriously. Mark Tobin and his firm has over 35 years of experience of working with property owners facing eminent domain matters. His firm, Tobin & Schreiber, represent a variety of types of clienteles, from agriculture to multi-family.
Colleague and good friend Josh Harris returns to discuss the school at which he teaches, Fordham University. Josh is a wealth of knowledge and wisdom when it comes to real estate, and his visits are always informative.
Markys Mackey began his journey into the world of construction deep within the heart of Chicago. As with all successful CEOs, it took hard work and dedication to succeed, and Markys' path led him to Central Florida, where he founded Verity Construction.
A valued team member at CrossMarc is today's guest with host John Crossman. Katie Nguyen is a true real estate pro, having been a board member on the Asian Chamber and one that has a lot of experience in the restaurant sector and with tenet representation. She discusses the competitive commercial real estate atmosphere that is today's market.
In his role as VP and Regional Manager for Central and North Central Florida at Marcus and Millichap, Justin West lives in the thick of the real estate world, and he shares his thoughts on what he sees as a robust season in real estate. Justin talks to about a thousand young professionals who are up and comers, and he stresses the virtue of coachability.
Tom Falatko is a trusted and respected real estate pro, and a good friend to John. Tom gives his thoughts on what he sees as a strong retail environment, and believes that our country still loves and need brick and mortar establishments. He also offers some valuable advice to young and aspiring real estate agents.
In a season of high interest rates, affordable housing has become a real problem across the country. Bruce McNeilage, Founder and CEO of Kinloch Partners, has his finger on the pulse of not only the housing market, but also the options available for those trying to find a home that they can afford.
Josh Harris is like the real estate answer man, and John has fun quizzing the professor on trends in real estate, including what areas are hot...or not.
In a turn of roles, John Crossman becomes the guest on his own podcast as Mike Gilland picks up the role of guest host. John shares what he sees as the current trends in real estate, and offers some great advice for young people who want to learn and grow in business. The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition is sponsored by Advent Health.
Recruiting new talent from today's colleges and universities is always a major issue for the growth of any industry or business, and real estate is no exception. What should CEO's look for? Dr. Josh Harris, a professor and real estate expert, drops by to answer this and other questions.
In an economic time such as we find ourselves today, Barney McAuley keeps busy with his finger on the pulse of the markets. Barney is the Managing Director of the Capital Markets for Edge Realty Partners in the Dallas area, and a recurring guest on the CEO Edition.
John Crossman sits down with Katie Trott, a partner at Foundry Commercial, to discuss the changing dynamics of the commercial real estate market. Trott shares her insights on the resurgence of the Tampa market post-pandemic and emphasizes the importance of creating appealing workplace environments to attract tenants. She also highlights essential leadership traits and offers advice for aspiring professionals.
John Manning, CEO of KMI International, talks with John Crossman about the dynamics of the real estate market, particularly in Florida. Manning highlights the importance of core values and teamwork in building a successful company, drawing from his experience in working with major clients like Orlando International Airport. He provides practical advice for young professionals and aspiring CEOs, emphasizing the significance of budgeting, design clarity, and effective project management.
Brian Watson, Vice President at CrossMarc Services, shares insights on the real estate market in Central Florida. He emphasizes the importance of moving quickly in a competitive market and highlights the significance of telling a compelling business story. Watson also discusses the value of listening in leadership, drawing parallels to successful businesses like McDonald's that actively listen to both customers and employees. Later, he reflects on his role as a father, emphasizing the importance of education and sharing knowledge for personal and professional growth.
John Michael Holtmann joins John Crossman on the CEO Edition to discuss positive trends in retail and office space. Holtmann is the co-founder and principal of Concord Property Companies and Concord Capital. Holtmann and John discuss how to strategically invest in property and the advantages of investing in a smaller market. They also highlight the importance of community impact and providing opportunities for growth and change in underrepresented areas.
Kristin Mueller who is the President of Retail Property Management at JLL Retail Property Management talks with John Crossman on the optimistic state of the retail real estate market. She highlights the absence of a significant wave of closures and the challenge of limited available space. The conversation explores post-COVID flexibility, collaborative problem-solving, and the importance of strong leadership in understanding and committing to the mission. Kristen concludes by stressing the value of industry involvement for professional growth.
Dr. Josh Harris, who serves as the Vice President of Strategy for Skanska USA Commercial Development, returns to The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition to share insights into successful real estate practices. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and ethical consideration. John and Dr. Harris discuss key trends in real estate and what to watch for going into 2024.
Lesley Deutch, Managing Principal at John Burns Research and Consulting joins John to discuss the resilience of the real estate market, focusing on housing and affordability challenges. Deutch shares insights on demographic shifts, remote work's impact, and the rise of build-for-rent apartments. They also discuss key leadership traits, emphasizing preparation, adaptability, authenticity, and strategic thinking.
Real estate expert Barney McAuley joins John Crossman to discuss the evolving dynamics in real estate, particularly focusing on malls and community development. The conversation covers the impact of interest rate increases, the resilience of department stores, and the potential repositioning of malls to include diverse elements like offices and healthcare facilities. Emphasizing the importance of community collaboration, the episode provides insights into transforming struggling malls into vibrant community hubs.
John Crossman is joined by President of One Florida Bank, Rick Pullman who delves into the current state of Central Florida's real estate market, discussing strengths, challenges, and potential opportunities. Pullman shares valuable leadership insights for aspiring CEOs, highlighting the significance of a sense of urgency and empathy.
Special guest, John Martinez and interview real estate veteran and President of CrossMarc Services John Crossman. They explore the current real estate marketing, highlighting the resilience of brick-and-mortar retail and the importance of community engagement. John Crossman also shares career advice, emphasizing the value of mentorship and proactive networking especially for college students looking to enter the industry.
John is joined by Dr. Josh Harris and they both discuss insights and advice for young professionals and aspiring CEOs. Dr. Harris reflects on successful and less successful students, emphasizing the importance of qualities like being a self starter and understanding the value of hard work. John and Dr. Harris also discuss the pressures that come with being a student such as mental health challenges and defining personal successes.
Anthony Blanco, Managing Director of Investment Sales at TSCG joins John and shares insights into the recent market shifts and the impact of interest rates on deals. Anthony shares about the concept of "wayfinding" as Blanco draws parallels between sailing and the CEO's journey, emphasizing the ability to navigate challenges and to stay on course.
Highly respected real estate pro Josh Harris keeps his finger on the pulse of trends and directions in the real estate world. As 2023 comes to a close, he and John discuss where those in the real estate world are finding themselves...and what they can expect in the new year.
David Gabbai, the Executive Vice President of Colliers in Orlando discusses tenants and how difficulty to get in as a tenant in the Central Florida market-which has been booming. With prices high and land increasingly harder to grab, Gabbai discusses successful tenants. Gabbai also speaks on the importance of empathy in a CEO and shares two stories about CEOs he admired and their ability to empathize with their entire team.
Nichole Popovics joins John on the show. Popovics is the EVP and Managing Director at TSCG and is an active member of ICSC and serves on the board of Florida State University Career Center. Popovics and John discuss the Florida real estate-specifically the Tampa real estate market.
John Mark Ramsey, the Founder and CEO of Sentio Investments, joins John on the show to discuss the ebbs and flows of the real estate market. As the real estate market is at a high, Ramsey talks about the uncertainty of the market. Ramsey shares about the Florida market and the masses who are moving here currently.
Greg Morrison, the Principal and Managing Director of Avison Young joins John on the show. Morrison discusses the current real estate trends in the commercial market. Morrison breaks down how employers are pivoting to provide a new office environment for employees so the job experience is improved. Morrison also shares the importance of communication as a CEO as he stresses responding and picking up the phone instead of texting or emailing important conversations.
CEO and President of Alexander Investments International, Kyle Riva, joins John on the show. He and John discuss the current state of the real estate market and specifically, interest rates in Florida. Later, Riva shares on how important pursuing education is. He also shares other qualities in CEOs that are important.
Brett Lindquist is the CEO of The Mortgage Firm in Altamonte Springs. His firm has served the lending needs of real estate professionals, builders and individual homebuyers for 25 years. Team members who have gone on to reach personal goals give Lindquist the credit for being a team player who inspires one to perform their best. Lindquist joins the podcast to discuss the current real estate market with John and the importance of setting goals as a CEO.
Ralph Betancourt, the President and CEO of First Colony Bank joins John on the show. Betancourt gives his analysis on today's real estate market from a banker's perspective. Additionally, he and John discuss the qualities of a good CEO, including how important the traits humility and confidence are when working in tandem.
Mike Keesee, the Founder and CEO of the Total Solutions Group, joins John on the show to discuss the Florida real estate market. Total Solutions Group is a full-service A&E studio serving Southeast Builders since 1992. The Total Solutions Group is the combination of Keesee Associates and FDS Engineering, both located in Metro Orlando. Mike Keesee and John discuss rising interest rates, construction costs, supply issues, and other factors facing the real estate market.
Dr. Joshua Harris the Managing Partner of the Lakemont Group joins John on the show to explain private equity. Many students are interested in pursuing a career in private equity but don't know what they are getting into. Dr. Harris and John break down what private equity is and the best companies to work for in the private equity field.
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Nicholas Heeb a recent graduate of Florida State University's nationally ranked real estate program joins the show. Heeb recently started his career as an office and industrial leasing associate. John and Heeb discuss the importance of valuing younger perspectives in the workplace. Heeb also touches on how the importance of being approachable as a CEO.
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Clayton Patterson, the founder and CEO of Digital Space Marketing and the Finity Law Firm, joins John on the show to discuss his new book, "Blast Off: What Executives Need To Know About Digital Marketing." The book delves into the best digital marketing practices for 2023 and the future. Patterson and John talk about how digital marketing has evolved.
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Dr. Josh Harris comes back on The Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition to discuss the importance of knowing your market and what your customer wants. He explains how size, location, and other factors come into play when a customer is choosing a space. Dr. Harris and John share how when working real estate, you have to understand a customer's need so you can help them find the space that meets all of their qualifications.
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Glen Mather, the CEO of NuView Trust Company, joins John on the show as they discuss the real estate market. John also asks Glen what are good qualities to have as a CEO and Glen speaks on the importance of having vision as a CEO. Glen explains that vision is what drives a company and its employees to keep working. Glen also stresses the importance of having a vision for you personal life not just your company's life.
Dr. Josh Harris, a consultant and Managing Partner for The Lakemont Group, rejoins the podcast for an episode recapping and sharing what happened at the ICSC conference this year. Josh and John discuss several factors facing today's commercial real estate market. Josh believes that in spite of the obvious hinderance in our economy such as high interest rates, that the commercial real estate is thriving. They also discuss the trend towards mixed use development and the role that young, college students will play in the real estate industry.
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We've all seen the important metaphor expressed in a relay race - the passing of the baton is a critical point in order to successfully run that race. John Crossman believes in investing in the future, and to him, that means pouring into students who are going to grab that baton and run. Two such young people are his guests in this CEO Edition of the Crossman Conversation - Reshmeena Ratnaswamy and Andrew Lewis.
For a special episode, John brings on real estate student and FAMU senior, Tyjah Tuggle. Tyjah is a member of "Club Real," an initiative started by John at this historic school. The club is producing real estate professionals at a high level who are performing extremely well. Tyjah discusses with John transgenerational wealth. She also discusses how the roles of resilience and personality have helped her launch into her career in real estate so far.
Adam Feinstein joins John Crossman on the CEO Edition to discuss the investment market. With over two decades in leadership roles and commercial real estate investment experience, Feinstein brings his insights on how debt has affected the investment market. At Cushman & Wakefield, Feinstein specializes in the disposition of retail real estate throughout the state of Florida. Feinstein also shares that CEOs who focus on company values seem to have more success than those who do not adhere to their company's values.
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Eve Sembler is the Vice President of Leasing at The Sembler Company, a St. Petersburg based real estate firm that has developed over 350 shopping centers in the Southeast and Puerto Rico. Eve and John discuss what makes a great CEO. Eve believes that once you are able to be yourself in the corporate world, and strip yourself of high levels of professionalism, you will be more successful. Companies are not looking for corporate robots but for real individuals dedicated to their work. Eve's advice for young professionals is to listen to those with more experience to keep learning how to improve.
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With more than 40 years of real estate experience, Blaine Strickland is one of our nation's most trusted and respected CEOs. He has held a variety of leadership positions at national companies and firms, and founded HBS Resources 15 years ago, a company that works locally, regionally and nationally with top-producing real estate agencies.
Principal of Edgar Jones & Company, Edgar Jones joins John on the CEO Edition. Edgar Jones works to develop office, commercial, and multi-family properties in Florida and the Southeast. Jones shares wisdom on how to become a successful CEO and the importance of well-developed communication skills. Now more than ever, there is a decline in communication due to technology. Jones discusses how to stand out in a technology centered culture. Jones also touches on real estate market lessons he has learned because of COVID.
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Rick Baldocchi has been in the consulting business for over 30 years and is the Vice President of AVCON which is based in Orlando, FL. Baldocchi talks about the transition since COVID from working in an office to working at home and the impact that it has had on the real estate market. Now, consumers seek out homes with offices and multi-family units are also trying to offer offices while the corporate office space is in decline. Baldocchi also discusses working with local government and the traits he believes every CEO should have.
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Beau Moultrie has worked closely with John for years. Once John's mentee and coworker, Beau now is President at BDM Commercial Real Estate, LLC based near Atlanta, GA. He joins John to discuss the booming Atlanta real estate market. Beau also talks about the qualities that make a successful CEO such as integrity-which he describes as truth plus action-and being coachable.
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Josh Harris has his PhD from the University of Central Florida, and taught as a professor for over 5 years at NYU in New York. Now, he is the Managing Partner of Lakemont Group in Central Florida. Josh joins John to discuss real estate market housing shortages, and the importance of hospitality in places in the Southeast.
Bruce McNeilage is the President and Co-founder of Kinloch Partners. When John and Bruce first met, Bruce helped guide John through an important decision. Today, he joins the show to talk about the traits of a good CEO and how to become one. His advice is to always take calculated risks. Bruce believes that CEOs who take over a business and only keep the status quo will never be as successful as those who think outside of the box.
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She's been with EDENS for over 25 years and has been the CEO since 2015. Jodi McLean is a confident force of nature. Joining John on the show, she discusses the retail market and her concerns as well as the trends in retail. In a post-COVID world, consumers are hunting for anything participatory...cooking classes, yoga and running clubs, or reading in the park. Jodi gives the reasons why retail is still relevant and why it's not going anywhere.
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Ray Watson lays out what is reality with regards to the role of a CEO in any business. Their impact on the team is both wide and deep, and so often underestimated by some of the CEO's themselves. Ray brings to bear the need to always be top of mind and "on" for the sake of the team, and ways to accomplish that. Every CEO needs someone to help them, to coach them through tough decisions. John also welcomes his guest who just happens to be his own personal CEO coach.
Joel Montilla not only is the President of the Puerto Rican Bar Association, but he also owns several businesses and runs his law practice, The Montilla Law Firm, P.A. Join Crossman as Montilla discusses the diverse culture and environment found in Orlando. He also discusses his work for the Puerto Rican Bar Association and the qualities of a true leader.
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Yvonne Baker directs a program that is nationally recognized for its excellence in training its students. As the Executive Director for the FSU Real Estate Center, Yvonne says what we all believe - Florida is the state to be in for business! With the exponential growth happening in our state, Yvonne says that her students at Florida State University's program are, for the most part, from Florida, with plans to stay in Florida. She weighs in on some ways that Florida is bucking the national trends in real estate.
Daniel Taub is a real estate pro with decades of experience to go with his highly esteemed education. Taub graduated from Boston University, and went on to complete the Harvard Real Estate Management Program. He is currently the Vice President and National Director at Marcus and Millichap in New York City. John and Daniel will discuss the recent ICSC meeting in Las Vegas, giving analysis on what the financial leaders of the industry are saying in today's challenging market.
Not many are pilots, and among those who are, a fraction of the skilled pilots in America has landed an F-14 on a carrier. Bill "Roto" Reuter is one of those pilots. His 28 year military career in the US Navy included stints as a commanding officer and test pilot. He leveraged that training and experience and translated it into solid business principles. He is the founder of R-Squared Solutions, and teaches the principles of servant leadership wherever he goes.
Craig Robinson has a wealth of experience in real estate and business in general. He is the director for Roofstock, Second Nature and Fyllo. His undergraduate degree is from MIT, and he earned an MBA from Harvard, so needless to say, Craig's educational background was extensive. According to John, Craig has a passion for a working democracy and also for racial equity. Craig's visit to the conversation is sure to be an inspiring help to all who want to grow in their understanding of business and real estate.
He leads the #1 Real Estate Program in the country - Tim Becker shares some leadership tips that are game-changers for students wanting to excel in this field. Tim shares the benefits in being kind, possessing humility, and being a good listener as key components to success. Becker's tried and true leadership program teaches students to be strategic thinkers in the ever-changing real estate world.
Barney McAuley is the Managing Director for the Dallas-based Edge Capital Markets. With over 40 years of experience in the retail industry, McAuley is known for expert leadership, and involvement in REAP (the Real Estate Associate Program). Mr. McAuley also served in executive level positions at Tricom Real Estate Group, and also at Cushman & Wakefield. John Crossman is excited to present his friend to listeners to this program.
He is the founder and principal at Concord Companies and Holtmann Properties based in Jackson, Mississippi. This longtime friend to John Crossman is an acclaimed success in the real estate industry, having acquired and developed about one million square feet of commercial properties. Together, Crossman and Holtmann worked to provide a $25,000 real estate scholarship at Jackson State University. And, like John Crossman, John Michael has a heart for HBCUs.
MURAL is an acronym standing for "Mixed Use Revitalization Approached Locally." This privately owned firm was founded to generate economic opportunities in areas underserved - creating mixed-income housing and jobs. Recognized by GlobeSt as a "Woman of Influence," Robin Zeigler brings her years of professional experience and education to MURAL's efforts. She shares thoughts and insights on today's program.
Paul Ajdaharian is the Senior Vice President of Simon Property Group, the largest developer and manager of real estate in the entire nation. The projects that Paul has managed are varied and many, including malls, premium outlets, and lifestyle centers. In Orlando, his projects include Waterford Lakes, and in Jacksonville, the St. John's Town Center. John considers Simon Property Group to be legendary in the entire mall and retail real estate industry, and welcomes Paul's insights on today's program.
Tom Sittema is an award-winning CEO, with more than three decades of experience in both private markets and financial industries. He shares insights into the need for CEOs to build a strong skill set in areas such as communication, casting vision in a concise way, and possessing a heart for empathy. Tom speaks from the perspective of a compassionate leader, one who has been named to the prestigious "Florida Council of 100."
Cliff Goins IV has been an avid lover of business for most of his days, working tirelessly toward his goal of financial freedom. He learned a lot along the way, all of which he has put to use in the founding of "Scaleup, Inc.", a company that grew out of Amazon, and one that helps grow small businesses owned by diverse owners into medium and large corporations. John has worked alongside Cliff on projects, and remarks that he is a great leader who has hit success early through "good old fashioned consistence."
Longtime friend to John Crossman and New Orleans leader David Barbour is an industry leader, working to aid the revitalization of the Downtown District. Davon came to New Orleans after working in Florida and California, working for one of the oldest downtown development districts in America. He works hard to see New Orleans' downtown become all that it can be, and he is pleased to see these efforts take off, as growth is evident in almost every downtown sector. He shares from his experience in this episode.
Betsy Gardner Eckbert serves as President of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, an organization that works to build economic success while uniting the local business owners and community leaders. This active organization presents events that are varied and interesting, all working to build the overall health and strength to this important city and its residents. Betsy's experience and leadership provide inspiration for any business leader.
Lisa LaBoo is an outstanding achiever, both personally and professionally. She graduated from FAMU and is a licensed securities agent. She has both the wisdom and experience necessary to tackle the obstacles that her clients face in these turbulent times, and she is helping those around her to mitigate these choppy waters. She is president of Prosperity Investment Services, and sits down in the Shepherd studios on today's Crossman CEO Edition.
He is recognized as a true leader in commercial real estate, and was named the Chairman of the ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) in 2021, and is continuing in that role. He is the former CEO of VEREIT, and also Cushman & Wakefield, Inc. Glenn will share invaluable insights into commercial business, and commerce in general in today's episode.
Rodney Keys is the owner of Keys Group, operating several franchises in and around Central Florida, and expanding ever outward. He owns Fazoli's, and also some establishments at OIA, as well as the Kissimmee Popcorn Company. Attitude, Vision, and having the right leadership team are all aspects that Rodney sees as critical for any business. He shares the things that hold true value in and for every business in today's episode with John Crossman.
On this maiden episode of "The Crossman Conversation-CEO Edition" - John welcomes Craig Ustler as his first guest. Craig is the owner of Ustler Developments in Orlando, and Craig has been an instrumental force in shaping some of the major developments in Central Florida. He shares his ideas on things that Orlando has done correctly as well as some things the City Beautiful needs in the coming years.