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On this episode of Canvas, I sit down with Jonathan Stein for a conversation that goes far beyond real estate.

From private equity to touring with a band, to becoming a powerhouse in luxury real estate, Jonathan opens up about reinvention, discipline, identity, addiction, and the realities of rebuilding yourself while operating at a high level.

This episode is about more than success.
It’s about evolution.
The masks we wear, the battles we fight privately, and who we become in the process.

A raw, honest, and unexpectedly powerful conversation.

Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeart

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In this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, I sit down with Stephen Larkin, Head of PR at Douglas Elliman, to explore the power behind perception in real estate. From our early days in the industry to today’s culture-driven market, we unpack how narrative, branding, and influence shape not just listings—but the entire conversation.

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From the gritty, anything-goes days of Ricky’s NYC to the nationwide takeover of Spirit Halloween, this episode dives into the evolution of retail as experience. We unpack the rise, the fall, and the unexpected rebirth of Halloween as a cultural and commercial phenomenon—plus what it really takes to build a pop-up empire at scale.

Ricky’s walked…
so Spirit could run.

NYC chaos → national takeover.

The rise.
The fall.
The pop-up empire.

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In this episode, Monica sits down with Jade Chan of Douglas Elliman—and trust me, she didn’t just move from California to New York… she made an entrance. From navigating the concrete jungle to carving out her space in luxury new development, Jade shares the real story behind the highlight reel (yes, including her time on Netflix’s Selling the City).

It’s equal parts hustle, heart, and a little bit of “figure it out as you go”—with sharp insights on staying authentic in a world that loves a polished façade. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a name (and a reputation) in this business, Jade delivers—with style, substance, and just the right amount of edge.

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Summary
In this episode, Monica Novo and Franklyn Salas discuss the real estate market trends, the expansion of the NOVO Collective into the Mid-Atlantic, and the importance of accountability and women's empowerment. They share insights on market dynamics, legal issues, and societal progress.

Key Topics
Mid-Atlantic market expansion
Real estate market trends in 2025
Legal accountability and justice
Women's empowerment and leadership

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In this episode, we sat down with Ben Dixon to talk about his transition from the world of finance into New York City real estate and how that analytical background shaped his strategy, client advisory style, and team-building approach. Ben shared how starting on an established team gave him the structure, deal flow, and mentorship needed to understand the nuances of the market before taking the leap to launch Dixon Advisory.

We discussed the mindset shift from being a high-performing team member to becoming a team leader—covering recruiting, branding, systems, and the importance of creating a value-driven client experience rather than just chasing transactions.

Ben also broke down the contrast between the challenging 2025 market—defined by rate volatility, cautious buyers, and longer deal cycles—versus the strong opening to 2026, where pent-up demand, improved inventory flow, and renewed buyer confidence are creating momentum across multiple price points. He shared how data, pricing discipline, and proactive communication helped his business stay consistent through the slowdown and positioned his team to capitalize on the current upswing.

A great conversation on career pivots, leadership, and how to stay strategic through shifting market cycles.

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In this engaging conversation, Franklyn Salas and Monica Novo discuss various topics ranging from the current real estate market trends to their personal experiences with snow and the recent Super Bowl. They delve into the significance of doormen in New York City, sharing anecdotes that highlight their roles as gatekeepers and sources of valuable information. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of home buying, including the feelings of regret and anxiety that can accompany such a significant investment. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of community, kindness, and the unique experiences that come with living in a bustling city like New York.

Takeaways

• The real estate market is showing signs of recovery in 2026.
• Doormen play a crucial role in New York City life.
• Emotional regret is common among new homeowners.
• Bad Bunny's halftime show was a cultural milestone.
• Snow experiences can evoke nostalgia and humor.
• The importance of kindness towards service workers.
• Home buying comes with significant emotional challenges.
• Furnishing a new home can be overwhelming but rewarding.
• Community support is vital in navigating real estate.
• Enjoying your mortgage is essential for peace of mind.

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In this engaging conversation, Monica and Franklyn shares their experiences and insights on the evolving landscape of urban living, particularly in New York and Florida. They discusses the rise of luxury rentals and the amenities that cater to a lifestyle of convenience and comfort, reflecting a shift in how people view homeownership. Monica and Franklyn highlight the appeal of renting, especially for those seeking a hassle-free lifestyle, and how modern buildings are now offering services that enhance the living experience, such as concierge services and wellness facilities. The discussion also touches on the cultural differences in lifestyle choices, particularly between urban and suburban living, and the impact of the pandemic on work-life balance and social interactions.

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As 2026 begins, Monica Novo and Franklyn dive into a candid conversation about a real estate market that’s anything but boring. They explore the importance of setting clear intentions for the year ahead, decoding market trends, and navigating the ongoing quirks of the rental landscape. Along the way, they underscore a timeless truth in real estate: first impressions matter—sometimes more than people expect. Blending practical insights with personal anecdotes, the duo reflects on the mindset, motivation, and strategy required to buy and sell smart in a complex market—proving that success in real estate is part preparation, part perspective, and a little bit of personality.

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In this holiday episode, Monica and Franklyn sit down for a wide-ranging conversation on real estate, architecture, travel, and the rhythms of New York City at year’s end.

They reflect on the recent passing of architectural icons Robert A.M. Stern and Frank Gehry, exploring how their work shaped the New York skyline and redefined luxury living. From timeless prewar-inspired towers to bold, expressive modern forms, the conversation looks at how design influences not just buildings—but cities, culture, and value.

The episode also touches on current market momentum in New York real estate, holiday travel traditions from St. Barts to Aspen, and why New York during the holidays remains unmatched, no matter how crowded it gets.

A thoughtful, lifestyle-driven close to the year—blending real estate insight with culture, memory, and perspective.