Less Talk, More Action

NYC’s Old Buildings: Would You Invest Millions To Fix This Problem?


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In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, David Goldstein, founder of Hydronic Shell Technologies, joins Joel and Owen to discuss the urgent challenge of decarbonizing existing buildings, particularly old, multi-family structures in New York City. The conversation addresses the technical and economic challenges of retrofitting occupied buildings, innovative solutions featuring exterior facade-integrated HVAC systems, and the realities of gaining buy-in from building owners. David also shares his entrepreneurial journey and reasons for optimism about the future of sustainable retrofits. Key takeaways include the need for scalable, cost-effective decarbonization solutions, the importance of continued R&D, the complex interplay of market forces, policy, and community impact in driving real climate action, and so much more. 

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Welcome to Today’s Episode and the Urgency of Building Decarbonization (0:54)
  • How a LinkedIn Callout Brought David Goldstein to the Podcast (3:40)
  • The Challenge of Retrofitting New York City’s Old Buildings (7:10)
  • Why Building Owners Hesitate to Invest in Retrofits (10:50)
  • Breaking Down Facade-Integrated HVAC Systems for Occupied Buildings (14:00)
  • David’s Path From Engineer to Climate Tech Entrepreneur (17:40)
  • The Uphill Battle of Funding Pilots and Finding Traction (21:10)
  • Bringing Prefab Retrofit Technology to New Construction (24:50)
  • Overcoming Technical Hurdles in Electrifying Old Buildings (28:20)
  • Retrofit vs. Rebuild: The Financial Reality for City Apartments (31:45)
  • Why R&D and Policy Shifts Matter for the Future of Decarbonization (35:30)
  • Reasons for Optimism and Parting Thoughts (39:05)

The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com.


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Less Talk, More ActionBy Joel Cesare & Owen Barrett