In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Sydne Garchik, Founder of MRK Partners, for an inspiring conversation about building equitable communities, embracing fearless leadership, and reimagining affordable housing with heart and innovation. Listen in to hear Sydne:

• Share how she turned an unexpected start in real estate into founding MRK Partners—blending a for-profit mindset with a nonprofit mission to create, preserve, and elevate affordable housing nationwide
• Break down the realities of development today, from navigating red tape and NIMBYism to structuring “impossible” deals—and why she believes success comes from tackling one problem at a time with grit, creativity, and purpose
• Reflect on empowering women in real estate, leveraging technology to streamline impact, and how her nonprofit, Bloom, is helping residents build equity through education, financial literacy, and community connection