Playing Offense with CREDE

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 16

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Mark Fergus, Chief Operating Officer (COO) at CREDE.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Mark Fergus’s international journey from Scotland to Thailand to Dubai, and beyond and how it shaped his approach to construction management

* Key qualities CREDE looks for when hiring and why “drive” might matter more than experience

* An exploration of whether artificial intelligence is set to disrupt the construction industry and if human expertise will always be essential

* How shifting economic forces and new technologies are impacting construction costs and market trends for 2026

* Exciting innovations and urban developments that can transform real estate and community life in the next two years

Learn more about Mark Fergus:

* Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-d-fergus-4830376

* Email Mark: [email protected]

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

* Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

* Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 15

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks withJack Hill, the President of Hill Building Group, a CREDE company based in Texas.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* Jack’s non-traditional path into the construction business

* The roles of general contractors, development managers, and owner's representatives

* The booming construction scene in Texas, particularly in Arlington, Fort Worth, and Dallas/Fort Worth areas

* The importance of right-sizing projects, treating the client’s budget responsibly, and assembling a team with the correct blend of expertise and attitude

Learn more about Jack Hill:

* Connect with Jack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackhill

* View Jack’s profile on Hill Building Group’s website: https://www.hillbuildinggroup.com/about-us

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

* Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

* Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 14

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Greg Econn, Executive Vice Chairman of Venbrook, who is celebrating his 50th year in the insurance brokerage world. Venbrook is one of the fastest-growing private insurance brokerages in the nation. Their innovative approach to commercial insurance, private client insurance, claims services, specialty programs, and wholesale coverage helps their clients navigate the twists and turns of today and tomorrow.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The history and unique approach of Venbrook as a multi-generational insurance company in the real estate sector

* How the REAPA program differs from traditional insurance and captive insurance models, and what advantages it offers to property owners

* The key challenges currently facing the property and liability insurance markets, especially for real estate owners in California

* How insuring for loss of market value works, and why is it significant for commercial property owners affected by disasters like fires

* What property owners should plan or budget for in 2026 regarding insurance premiums, deductibles, and risk mitigation strategies

* Information on Steadfast LA and how the non-profit is helping those who lost homes in the Los Angeles fires

Learn more about Greg Econn:

* Email: [email protected]

* Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-econn-9b825829

* Visit Steadfast LA’s website: http://www.STEADFASTLA.com

* Visit Venbrook’s website: https://venbrook.com

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

* Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

* Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 13

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with David McAlister, founder and leader of McAlister Geoscience, an environmental assessment and project management firm.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

* The main steps and responsibilities involved in conducting Phase One and Phase Two environmental site assessments

* How regulatory standards and agency requirements differ between states like California and Washington for environmental remediation

* The potential risks and liabilities for property owners, operators, and small businesses regarding underground storage tanks and site contamination

* How AI is currently being used in environmental consulting and its limitations and future prospects in this field

* The typical clients for environmental consulting services, and the regions McAlister Geoscience serves

Learn more about David McAlister:

* Visit McAlister GeoScience’s website: https://www.dirtyproperty.com/people

* Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mcalister-pg-0561456

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

* Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

* Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 12

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Paul Daneshrad, founder and CEO of StarPoint Properties. Since 1990, Paul has transformed StarPoint into a leading real estate investment and development firm with over $1.5 billion in transactions. Known for delivering market-leading returns, Paul’s expertise spans three decades, making him a prominent figure in the real estate community. He's a frequent speaker at national conferences and has been featured in top industry publications. Paul is also the author of the best-selling book "Money & Morons."

Tune in to the episode to hear about

- Paul’s beginnings in real estate during college, moving from a part-time job to a deeper involvement with Glen Fed Development and eventually starting his own ventures

- The evolution of Starpoint Properties from its formative years in a garage office to handling multi-million dollar transactions and diverse development strategies

- Investment strategies for 2025, emphasizing multifamily value add projects, opportunity zone developments, and tactical positioning in the market.

- Advice for aspiring real estate professionals to specialize and gain expertise in a specific area of the business to succeed, sharing insights into StarPoint's approach and future directions

Learn more about Paul Daneshrad:

- Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldaneshrad

- Visit Starpoint Properties’ website: http://starpointproperties.com

- Follow Starpoint Properties on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starpointproperties

- Visit Starpoint Properties on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@starpoint_properties

- Follow Paul on X: https://x.com/DaneshradPaul

- Follow Starpoint Properties on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starpointproperties

- Check out Paul’s book, “Money & Morons” https://www.amazon.com/Money-Morons-Protect-Yourself-Conflux/dp/B0CJ2H56JD

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

 * Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

 * Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 11

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Michael Kollin, President and CEO of Kollin Altomare Architects, a Michael Graves company, a full-service boutique design and planning firm with a focus on hospitality, residential, and mixed-use projects.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

- Kollin’s experiences starting his own firm in 1995 after being laid off during a recession, highlighting key projects and relationships that propelled his career forward

- The impacts of interest rates on the industry, technological advancements like AI and digital twin concepts, and the increasing collaboration and offshoring opportunities in architecture

- Kollin’s passion for cars and racing, and the connection of his enthusiasm for teamwork and strategy in racing to his architectural practice

- Advice for aspiring architects

Learn more about Michael Kollin:

- Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kollin-b7b67ab

- Visit Kollin Altomare Architects’ website: http://www.kollinaltomare.com

- Read about Michael Graves’ acquisition of Kollin Altomare Artichects: https://michaelgraves.com/michael-graves-architecture-announces-acquisition-of-kollin-altomare-architects

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

 * Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

 * Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 10

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Anthony Delorenzo, a long-time friend and Vice Chairman at CBRE, a worldwide commercial real estate services & investment company.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

- Anthony’s journey from growing up in San Diego and starting his post-college career in real estate in 2005

- The challenges and learning experiences associated with early career roles, particularly in brokerage

- The importance of creating team value beyond just business development

- An analysis of current market trends, with a particular focus on mid-tier private capital, industrial, and office sectors, noting substantial adaptive reuse projects and shifts in capital investment strategies

- The importance of team dynamics and a positive attitude in real estate

Learn more about Anthony Delorenzo:

- Read Anthony’s profile on CBRE’s website: https://www.cbre.com/people/anthony-delorenzo

- Connect with Athony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonydelorenzo

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

* Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

* Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

* Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 9

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Casey Berman, founding partner and managing member of Camber Creek, an investment firm focused on driving innovation in the real estate industry. Casey leads the investing efforts and fund formation since the firm’s inception 13 years ago. Camber Creek has the largest strategic network of LPs with over 300 real estate groups investing in the various funds and an AUM of nearly a billion dollars.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

- Camber Creek’s mission to drive technological innovation in real estate through strategic investments and industry partnerships

- The importance of integrating innovative talents with real estate experience within their team to bridge the gap between technology and traditional real estate practices

- The potential impact of AI on real estate, emphasizing that AI will drive efficiency across various departments, akin to the mobile workforce transformation from 2008 to 2015

- How evolving technologies and data utilization are transforming different real estate sectors, including construction automation, fraud prevention, and location-based marketing

- Future prospects for the real estate industry, highlighting adaptive reuse of office spaces and parking structures, and the blending of asset types to enhance their functionality through technological advancements and innovative applications

Learn more about Casey Berman:

- Visit Camber Creek’s website: http://www.cambercreek.com

- Connect with Casey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyberman

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

- Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

- Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

- Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

- Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 8

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Troy Smith,  the founder of Pandora Group, Pandora Tax and Accounting.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

- Innovative accounting practices and proactive client relationships

- Pandora's unique approach to accounting, including flat fixed fees, quarterly meetings, and the elimination of billable hours to increase efficiency

- Pandora's emphasis on integrating with client operations and offering strategic tax planning services, emphasizing real estate and entrepreneurial clients

- Pandora's modern remote work culture, its focus on employee satisfaction, and its unique approach to managing staff incentives and client relationships

- Future insights, touching on potential tax law changes and Pandora's commitment to providing dependable and innovative tax services

Learn more about Troy Smith:

 * Connect with Troy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-smith-0b86336b 

 * Visit Pandora Group’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PandoraGroup_

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

 * Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

 * Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

 * Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup

Playing Offense with CREDE with Colby Durnin, Episode 7

In this episode of Playing Offense with CREDE, Colby Durnin speaks with Jonathan Cronstedt (aka JCron), Board member & former President of Kajabi, investor, advisor and author.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

- Jonathan’s background and insights on how marketing and sales approaches can impact real estate

- The opportunity in real estate to leverage new automated technologies for starting conversations and closing deals, which are underutilized in the industry

- The importance of authenticity in marketing, the pitfalls of relying solely on technology, and the significance of human-to-human interactions

- Jonathan shares his methods for evaluating companies, the necessity of focusing on core business functions, and how systems play a crucial role in attracting top talent.

- Jonathan’s strategies for employee retention, recognizing and rewarding top performers, and ensuring organizational alignment through clear purposes and goals

Learn more about Jonathan Cronstedt:

- Visit Jonathan’s website: http://www.jcron.com

- Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cronstedt

- Follow Jonathan on X: https://x.com/thejcron

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About Playing Offense with CREDE:

The mission of the Playing Offense with CREDE podcast is to bring together like-minded experts from various fields across the Real Estate and Construction universe, united by a shared passion for Real Estate projects. We aim to foster engaging conversations with our CEO, Colby Durnin, that explore innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, industry hot topics, and the transformative power of developing unique projects across all product types. Our goal is to inspire and inform listeners while providing valuable insights that contribute to the growth, transparency, and evolution of the Real Estate industry.

Watch more episodes of Playing Offense with CREDE and be sure to like and subscribe to stay informed about our latest updates and insights.

https://www.youtube.com/@CREDEGroup

Connect and learn more from your host, Colby Durnin:

- Connect with Colby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-durnin

- Follow CREDE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credegroup

- Follow CREDE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credegroup

- Follow CREDE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/credegroup