In this episode of declarations., Host Todd Rich sits down with Michael Spies, Founder of Fuse Strategies, to explore a lifetime of insight at the intersection of global real estate, urban development, and innovation. Michael reflects on his early experiences growing up as the child of immigrants, his time in public service in New York City, and his 30-year career at Tishman Speyer leading global expansion and innovation. The conversation traces his journey from city planning to venture investing, offering lessons on leadership, human capital, and the evolving relationship between the built environment and technology.

We discuss:
 • Lessons from Berlin and the challenges of real estate cycles
 • How good development aligns private value with the public good
 • The evolution of the office sector and rise of short-term, mixed-use spaces
 • The growing role of AI and data in construction and asset management
 • Why human capital, curiosity, and creativity remain the ultimate differentiators

Links:

Michael on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-spies-482810149/

Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/

Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/

Topics:

(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:00:59) - Introducing Michael Spies
(00:03:08) - Michael's declaration
(00:04:35) - Early life and influences
(00:16:38) - Lessons from Berlin
(00:18:00) - Leadership principles
(00:23:09) - Mixed-use development
(00:26:58) - Innovations in office space
(00:29:02) - The shift to short-term leases
(00:30:15) - Innovative amenities in office spaces
(00:31:40) - Challenges and changes in the office sector
(00:33:52) - Transition to venture technology and innovation
(00:35:55) - Mentoring entrepreneurs and evaluating talent
(00:39:40) - Impact of AI on real estate
(00:42:17) - Innovative construction and development
(00:45:26) - Integrating art in development projects
(00:50:45) - Personal reflections and advice
(00:52:05) - Closing thoughts and acknowledgements