On the Mark

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 36

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Marty Dolan, a candidate challenging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) in New York's 14th Congressional District in the Democratic June 23 primary.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Dolan’s argument that AOC represents far-left, antagonistic politics that struggle to succeed in legislatures built around centrist coalitions

* Disorder on Roosevelt Avenue and the bipartisan “Restore Roosevelt Avenue” group that pushed Gov. Kathy Hochul to send state troopers

* Dolan’s take on gerrymandering as “profoundly un-American,” saying primary outcomes are driven heavily by money and turnout operations

* Social media’s minimal impact in parts of the South Bronx, but how it helps sharpen campaign messaging

* “Marty Money” policies: Dolan’s housing platform centered on privatizing NYCHA by selling apartments to current tenants at reduced prices to encourage equity ownership

* Reparations for slavery, citing commissions at both the federal and New York State levels and framing it as a damages-based approach

* Dolan’s professional background in investment banking and insurance, working on major issues including environmental liability, Lloyd’s of London, post-9/11 insurance market challenges, and the global financial crisis

* Dolan’s proposal to expand charter and religious schools, including the direct election of the school chancellor by parents

Learn more about Marty Dolan:

* Visit Marty’s campaign website: https://www.martydolan.org

* Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-dolan-ba5b631a1

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On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 35

In this episode of “On The Mark,” Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Alina Bonsell, a Republican running for the New York State Senate District 28 in Manhattan.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Alina’s background as a legal Jewish refugee from Odessa who grew up in NYC, worked 15 years in pharmaceuticals, launched startups, and now runs a small real estate business

* How campaigns use social media/AI for branding and content, while ballot access still requires in-person signature gathering

* Alina’s case against a 20-year incumbent: rising cost of living, public safety fears, waste/fraud, and declining quality of life despite high taxpayer contributions

* Alina’s public safety agenda: more officers, higher morale, tougher prosecution, and a supplemental safety task force working with NYPD; more civics and career-path education

* Positions on governance: supports term limits, bipartisan cooperation, and appeals to moderate and Jewish Democrats

* Critiques of Mayor Mamdani’s promises and property tax proposals; proposes targeted tax relief for under-25s, working parents with young children, and seniors’ pensions

* Immigration stance: prioritize residents, oppose taxpayer-funded handouts, support legal work authorization and a path to citizenship for non-criminal migrants; case-by-case cooperation with ICE

* Homeless shelter issue: highlights lack of zoning/safety rules and alleges fraud in homelessness spending; says she is drafting legislation to add restrictions and accountability

Learn more about Alina Bonsell:

* Learn more about Alina on her campaign website: https://www.alinabonsell.com/meetalina

* Follow Alina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alinab.nyc

* Follow Alina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alinaforny

* Follow Alina on X: https://x.com/AlinaBonsell

* Follow Alina on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alinabonsell

* Email Alina: [email protected]

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On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 34

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Alison Besunder, Equity Partner and Chair of the Trusts & Estates Planning, Administration, and Guardianship and Fiduciary Litigation Groups at Goetz Platzer.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* An outline of Alison’s practice, encompassing estate planning, trust/estate administration, probate contests, and Article 81 contested guardianships

* How the COVID-19 pandemic shifted her work virtually and the effect on consultations and execution ceremonies

* Testamentary capacity: the legal standard, how attorneys assess it during consults and signings

* Considerations in disinheriting heirs, defining stepchildren, and handling specific bequests, often using trust structures

* Revocable vs. irrevocable trusts, probate avoidance, and minor/descendants trusts

* AI’s emerging role as a tool for low-stakes and repetitive tasks, litigation support, and efficiency without replacing human judgment or client communication

* Courts, delay, mediation, and limits of arbitration/no-contest concepts in wills versus trusts

Learn more about Alison Arden Besunder:

* View Alison’s profile on Goetz Platzer’s website: https://goetzplatzer.com/attorneys/alison-arden-besunder

* Connect with Alison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonardenbesunder

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 33

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Adam Adelson and Ralph Marucci, founders of Hydr8. Hydr8 provides business with sustainable and healthy amenities including still, sparkling, ice, organic soda dispensers with reverse osmosis and added electrolytes, solar roasted Caffein8 coffee, compostable disposables and zero-waste snacks.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The evolution to Hydr8’s “zero waste pantry,” beginning in 2007 with point-of-use water purification systems that replaced five-gallon jugs, offering purified water, ice, sparkling and flavored drinks, coffee, snacks, and disposables with full equipment service

* Hydr8’s Caffein8 coffee brand, emphasizing AAA-grade beans, bean-to-cup programs, demos, and rapid, empathetic service

* Adam and Ralph’s broad range of clients, ranging from small firms to major banks and law firms

* The value of consolidated vendors and e-commerce ordering

* Future AI/IoT features for personalization and proactive maintenance,

* Hydr8’s mission to reduce single-use plastics

Learn more about Adam Adelson and Ralph Marucci:

* Connect with Adam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-s-adelson

* Connect with Ralph on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphmarucci

* Follow Hyrd8 on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hydr8us

* Visit Hydr8’s website: https://www.hydr8.us

* Visit Hydr8’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hydr8us

* Follow Hydr8 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hydr8nyc

* Follow Hydr8 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hydr8us

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 32

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Tom Ravert, Author of The Rudiments of Real Estate series, Financial Planner Specializing in Real Estate and Finance, Managing Director at Pathway Capital Corp and Co-Founder at American Standard Capital, LLC.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Surprising government programs that can help you buy a home with little or no money down even if your credit isn’t perfect

* How owning a home can become your most powerful tool for building wealth and financial security

* The biggest mistakes first-time buyers make when choosing realtors, attorneys, or lenders—and how can you avoid them

* An examination of reverse mortgages and tapping into your home equity as part of your retirement plan — smart move or risky trap?

* Practical steps you should take before house hunting to make sure you’re truly ready to buy

Learn more about Tom Ravert:

* Visit Pathway Capital’s website: http://pathway-capital.com

* Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasravert

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 31

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Wissam Akra, CEO & Founder of Tough Leaf, a mission-driven platform to connect general contractors and developers with qualified Small Business Enterprises owned by minorities, women, veterans, and other disadvantaged groups.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* How technology is transforming the traditionally slow-to-adapt construction industry, and the role Tough Leaf plays in this change

* The biggest challenges contractors face when trying to meet minority and women-owned business participation requirements

* How Tough Leaf’s unique matching process ensures both contractors and small businesses find the right fit for their projects

* How shifting political and certification landscapes are impacting opportunities for minority-owned businesses

* How artificial intelligence is already reshaping the way companies like Tough Leaf operate and support their clients

Learn more about Wissam Akra:

* Visit Tough Leaf’s website: http://toughleaf.com

* Connect with Wissam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwakra

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 30

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with  Howard Schlesinger of VRF Solutions, LLC. Howard is a registered architect and real estate developer in NYC with extensive experience in property development and renovation. His expertise includes state-of-the-art renovations, building upgrades, and the redevelopment of underutilized properties for both commercial and residential use.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* VRF — what it is and how it functions

* The capabilities of VRF systems in enhancing building management systems, optimizing energy usage and also contributing significantly to sustainability efforts

* How VRF technology provides a tailored and efficient climate control solution In both residential and commercial settings

* The future potential applications for VRF systems to transform spaces, save energy, and improve comfort

Learn more about Howard Schlesinger:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-schlesinger-aia-25b296b

* Visit VRF Solutions’ website: https://vrfsolutionsllc.com

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 29

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Bob Grbic, Founder and CEO of Bearbrook Corporate Advisors LLC.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The roles emerging technologies and pandemic-induced changes are playing in the commercial lending industry

* The significance of our physical presence at work in fostering innovation, collaboration, and company culture

* The importance of clear roles and the strategic implementation of leverage recaps to resolve conflicts and ensure smooth transitions within family-led entities

* Tariffs, global supply chain considerations, and the increasing role of European markets in shaping the future of commercial lending

* The crucial nature of adaptability in navigating the complexities of today's business environments

* The importance of maintaining a balance between leveraging technology and preserving the human touch, developing a culture that supports growth, collaboration, and innovation

* The multifaceted challenges and opportunities confronting the commercial lending industry

Learn more about Bob Grbic:

* Connect with Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-grbic-b523452a

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On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 27

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Melanie Herschorn, an independent publisher, book marketer, and bestselling author. Melanie works with attorneys, wealth experts, and business owners, helping them with book marketing and promotion.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Melanie’s philosophy on books — they are not just about sharing stories, but about building authority and visibility

* Where Melanie draws the line with who she will and will not work with, and the importance of maintaining neutrality and professionalism regardless of personal beliefs

* Melanie's approach to book writing, which is grounded in collaboration

* Melanie’s beliefs around AI and its potential hold on the publishing process

* The crucial role strategic marketing maneuvers play in getting a book the recognition it deserves

* Insights into the evolving landscape of book writing

Learn more about Melanie Herschorn:

* Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-herschorn

* Visit Your Big Impact Book’s website: https://yourbigimpactbook.com

* Get your Melanie’s free Ultimate Book Marketing Checklist: https://yourbigimpactbook.com/checklist

* Check out Melanie’s recent book, “Make a Big Impact with Your Book: Author Marketing Strategies for Long-Term Success” https://yourbigimpactbook.com/big-impact-book

* Follow Big Impact Books on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigimpactbooks

* Follow Big Impact Books on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigimpactbooks

* Visit Big Impact Books on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigimpactbooks

* Follow Big Impact Books on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/bigimpactbooks

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 26

In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Cliff Katz, an equity partner and chair of the bankruptcy and insolvency practice at Goetz Platzer, LLP.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The key differences between Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 bankruptcies

* How executory contracts and leases impact a company's ability to restructure during bankruptcy

* The main players involved in a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and how their services are typically paid for

* What debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing is and why lenders provide funding to companies in bankruptcy

* How bankruptcy trends and the perception of bankruptcy have evolved in the business and legal communities over time

Learn more about Cliff Katz:

* View Cliff’s profile on Goetz Platzer’s website: https://goetzplatzer.com/attorneys/cliff-katz/

* Connect with Cliff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliff-katz-3871813b

* Email: [email protected]

***********************************

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin:

This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives.

Watch more episodes of On The Mark:

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer

* Website: https://goetzplatzer.com

* SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6

Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin:

* Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf

* Call: 212-695-7753

* Email: [email protected]