Building Knowledge

This episode of “Building Knowledge” focuses on trends in wood maintenance and restoration projects with guest Willy Montano, Principal of Montano Wood Care Corporation in Yonkers, New York. A former guest on the Building and Realty Institute’s radio programs, this marks Montano’s first appearance on “Building Knowledge.”

Topics include the lasting appeal of wood in commercial buildings, the importance of incorporating wood refurbishing into long-term maintenance plans, and current trends involving elevator cabs, lobbies, doors, furniture, and other building components. The discussion also covers refinishing and restoration processes, the current business climate in the New York metropolitan area, rising material costs, workforce development, and the growing need for renovations as the region’s housing stock continues to age.

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Episode 119 of “Building Knowledge with the Building and Realty Institute (BRI)” takes a closer look at how Co-op and Condo Boards can effectively prepare for and conduct successful Annual Meetings. Our guest is David Amster, Chairman of the Advisory Council of Managing Agents (ACMA) of the BRI and Principal of Prime Locations, a leading property management company based in Yonkers, New York.

During the episode, David discusses the purpose and importance of Annual Meetings, the key steps boards should take when planning them, notification requirements for shareholders and unit owners, and best practices for keeping meetings organized and productive. He also shares insights on when building consultants should attend, why following the meeting agenda matters, the importance of reviewing committee reports and budgets, and the growing challenges facing Co-ops and Condos today.

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Episode 118 of “Building Knowledge” takes a deep dive into the insurance challenges impacting New York’s building, realty, and construction industries. Joining the program is Jason Schiciano, Co-President of Levitt-Fuirst Insurance and Bonding, based in Tarrytown. A familiar voice to members of the Building and Realty Institute (BRI) and its affiliate organizations, Jason has long been a trusted resource on insurance trends, risk management, and emerging industry issues.

In this episode, Jason discusses the growing insurance pressures facing businesses across New York State, including challenges impacting property owners, contractors, and developers. He also shares insight into encouraging developments within the insurance market, updates involving New York State Workers Compensation Groups 458 and 530, and the key issues he believes businesses should be watching for throughout the remainder of 2026.

The conversation also explores the increasing importance of Cyber Liability Insurance for businesses of all sizes. Jason explains why cyber protection is no longer optional in today’s business environment and addresses the common misconception among small business owners that they are unlikely targets for cyberattacks.

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Episode 117 of Building Knowledge takes a close look at how the Apartment Owners Advisory Council (AOAC) of the Building and Realty Institute (BRI) is preparing for the upcoming public hearings and deliberations of the Westchester County Rent Guidelines Board in New York State.

Our guest is Alana Ciuffetelli, Chair of the AOAC. In this episode, she discusses the growing pressures facing small building owners and managers and the policy and cost challenges shaping housing in Westchester County.

Topics include:

This episode offers timely context ahead of one of the most consequential housing policy processes in Westchester County.

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Episode 116 of Building Knowledge takes a timely look at the state of housing across the New York metropolitan area, featuring Ron Abad, CEO of Community Housing Innovations (CHI). The conversation highlights CHI’s ongoing efforts to address the region’s housing challenges while spotlighting key upcoming initiatives, including the City & State Affordable Housing Summit on May 7—where Abad will serve as moderator—and CHI’s Homeownership Expo on June 27.

Abad also shares his perspective on whether state and local policymakers are gaining a clearer understanding of the growing shortage of affordable and workforce housing—and the real consequences that come with it, from resident outmigration to broader economic strain. The episode closes with a candid discussion of his top concerns about the current housing landscape and what message he would deliver directly to legislators if given the opportunity.

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Public relations and marketing aren’t just support functions anymore—they’re powerful drivers of growth, credibility, and leadership.

In this episode of Building Knowledge, we continue the conversation with a dynamic new voice: Christina Rae, President of Buzz Creators, Inc., making her debut on the show.

Christina breaks down what’s really working in PR and marketing today—from the biggest misconceptions business leaders still have, to how storytelling and thought leadership can set you apart in a crowded market. She shares practical insights on building influence without feeling forced or overly self-promotional, and why reputation management is more critical—and more complex—than ever before.

Looking ahead, Christina highlights the trends shaping the future of the industry and what smart business leaders should be doing now to stay ahead of the curve.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your brand, strengthen your voice, or future-proof your strategy, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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Episode 114 of Building Knowledge dives into why smart, strategic marketing is essential for building, real estate, and construction companies—especially in a region as distinct as the Hudson Valley.

This episode features first-time guest Katy Dwyer, Founder and Creative Director of KDD Marketing in Kingston, NY. She shares practical insights on how businesses can better connect with Hudson Valley audiences, from understanding the region’s diverse demographics to adapting to seasonal consumer trends.

The conversation covers what makes marketing in the Hudson Valley unique, which tactics resonate most with local audiences, and the key strategies industry professionals should prioritize. Katy also breaks down common marketing challenges facing building and realty firms today—and how to adjust your approach during economic uncertainty to maintain trust and engagement.

Whether you’re looking to refine your marketing strategy or better understand your audience, this episode delivers actionable takeaways tailored to the Hudson Valley market.

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This episode of Building Knowledge takes a closer look at the growing threat of online fraud in real estate transactions—and what industry professionals and consumers need to know to stay protected.

Joining the conversation are Tom Linehan, Executive Vice President and Director of the National Deposits Group at Apple Bank, and Anastasios Papaioannou, Assistant Vice President of the same division. 

Together, they break down how these fraudulent schemes originate, when they typically surface during a transaction, and who is behind them. The discussion also covers the latest financial impact of these crimes, practical steps to prevent and respond to fraud, and why education and immediate reporting to law enforcement are critical in stopping these activities.

If you think wire fraud is “someone else’s problem,” this episode may change your mind—quickly.

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Episode 112 of Building Knowledge spotlights Co-ops and Condos United of New York, a newly formed group representing more than one million New Yorkers living in cooperative and condominium communities across New York City.

The episode features insights from Geoffrey Mazel, a founding member of the law firm Hankin & Mazel and a key leader behind the organization, alongside Michael Wolfe, President of Wolfe Realty Services and a prominent voice in the industry. Mazel also serves as legal counsel to the Presidents Co-op and Condo Council of New York (PCCC) and is a member of the Real Estate Board of New York’s Residential Management Council. Wolfe currently chairs that same council and serves on the board of the Council of New York Cooperatives and Condominiums.

Together, they discuss the formation of Co-ops and Condos United of New York, its mission, and its goals—particularly its focus on strengthening communication with elected officials and stakeholders to ensure legislation reflects the needs of co-op and condo homeowners. The conversation also explores the organization’s early media traction, key New York City and State policy issues, and a detailed critique of the proposed “Co-op Transparency Bill,” which the group strongly opposes.

This episode also marks Michael Wolfe’s first appearance on Building Knowledge.

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Episode 111 of “Building Knowledge” dives into the latest from the Clean Energy Action Coalition (CEAC) of The Business Council of Westchester, featuring Ron Kamen, CEAC Director and Co-Founder.

From skyrocketing energy costs to urgent climate realities, Ron breaks down what homeowners, businesses, nonprofits, and local governments can do right now to lower costs and reduce emissions. The conversation explores overlooked solutions like solar parking canopies, the growing role of battery storage, and a cleaner fuel already making an impact across the New York metro area.

Plus, a critical federal tax credit deadline is fast approaching—one that could significantly impact the future of solar and battery projects—and why CEAC’s upcoming conference on April 14 is a must-attend for anyone invested in the region’s energy future.

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