The New How Podcast

Keywords
construction, real estate, entrepreneurship, general contracting, scaling a business, team culture, leadership, networking, mentorship, value engineering, subcontractors, AI in construction, pre-construction, project management, Philadelphia real estate

Summary
In this episode, Bryan Cohen shares his journey from playing college basketball at Bucknell and professionally in Israel to co-founding Full Court Construction with his brother, Aron. After getting started in real estate through small rental renovations, the two gradually scaled into larger multifamily projects and built a construction company focused on execution, efficiency, and long-term relationships.

The conversation explores what it takes to grow a construction business, from hiring the right people and building a strong team culture to navigating pricing changes, subcontractor relationships, and project efficiency. Bryan also talks about networking, mentorship, daily discipline, and how his team is beginning to use AI to support pre-construction and project workflows. A grounded look at the mindset, structure, and consistency behind building a business in construction.

Takeaways
A competitive mindset can carry over from sports into business.
Starting small can create the foundation for long-term growth.
Strong execution is a major differentiator in construction.
Hiring the right people has a direct impact on company culture.
Building the right team requires vulnerability and trust.
Networking becomes more valuable when done with intention.
Mentorship can help accelerate growth and decision-making.
Discipline and routine can support consistency in business.
Learning from mistakes is part of building a stronger company.
AI can help improve efficiency in pre-construction and project workflows.

Chapters
00:00 Competitive mindset in construction
01:37 Introduction to Bryan Cohen and Full Court Construction
02:27 Basketball at Bucknell and playing professionally in Israel
04:46 Getting started in real estate and early renovations
06:49 Scaling into larger multifamily projects
09:37 Navigating COVID and pricing challenges
12:55 Value engineering and project efficiency
17:28 Building a strong team culture
22:26 Networking and business development
26:07 Daily habits and time management
32:28 Lessons learned through mistakes and growth
38:45 Using AI in construction workflows
43:28 Final thoughts and advice

Keywords
real estate development, vertical integration, Philadelphia real estate, construction, zoning, community meetings, financing, sheriff sale properties, property management, AI in real estate, entrepreneurial growth, construction costs, project management

Summary
In this episode, Roman Ovrutsky shares his path from studying finance and working at BNY Mellon to building Omega Home Builders, a vertically integrated real estate business in Philadelphia. After getting his start with sheriff sale properties and smaller residential projects, he gradually scaled into larger developments by staying lean, managing costs closely, and remaining hands-on throughout the process.

The conversation explores what it takes to grow in real estate over time, from learning through smaller deals and managing risk to navigating zoning, community meetings, construction costs, and financing. Roman also talks about the advantages of vertical integration, his views on the Philadelphia market, and how AI may continue to shape business operations and decision-making. A practical look at growth, discipline, and building a business by staying close to every part of the process.

Takeaways
Starting small can create the foundation for larger opportunities.
Vertical integration can create speed, control, and cost savings.
Staying lean can be a competitive advantage in a difficult market.
Speed can make a major difference in real estate and business.
Learning by doing can build confidence for larger projects.
Community engagement can be a necessary part of getting deals done.
The right partner can strengthen the parts of the business you do not own naturally.
Construction costs and regulation can shape what projects move forward.
AI can help speed up repetitive tasks but still requires judgment.
Long-term growth often comes from consistency more than quick wins.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Roman Ovrutsky and his current projects
02:03 Day-to-day operations and vertical integration
03:35 From finance and pre-med plans into real estate
06:15 First sheriff sale property and early lessons
10:24 Market conditions, competition, and staying lean
15:07 Why vertical integration supports growth
20:09 Scaling from small projects to larger developments
23:18 Zoning, RCO meetings, and community engagement
29:06 The most rewarding parts of the development process
32:35 Renovations versus new construction
35:08 How Roman evaluates new opportunities
42:08 AI, automation, and business operations
54:32 Long-term vision and future growth
57:03 Final advice on work, passion, and persistence

Keywords

entrepreneurship, scaling businesses, AI, business culture, routines, leadership, stormwater management, digital marketing, real estate, innovation, business growth, habits

Summary

In this episode, Ryan and Sean Boyle share how early experiences shaped their path into entrepreneurship and led them to build businesses across multiple industries. Ryan owns VioStorm Solutions, a full-service stormwater maintenance company, along with Trilogy Property Services, which supports commercial and industrial property managers. Sean leads Momentum, a digital marketing agency, while also building a real estate asset holding company.

They discuss the realities of scaling service-based businesses, including hiring, delegation, and identifying bottlenecks, along with a broader conversation around AI and how it may continue to shape business and different areas of work. The conversation also highlights the importance of human connection, company culture, and surrounding yourself with the right people, along with the habits and routines that help them stay focused while continuing to grow their businesses.

Takeaways

Early experiences can shape how you approach business and decision-making.
Scaling a business often comes down to identifying and addressing bottlenecks.
Hiring reliable people and building the right team is critical for growth.
Human connection and company culture play a major role in long-term success.
AI is becoming a tool across both digital and physical industries.
Consistent habits and routines help support focus and performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ryan and Sean Boyle
02:12 Early experiences and paths into entrepreneurship
06:39 Building a stormwater maintenance business
10:40 Scaling and hiring in service businesses
13:03 Growing a digital marketing business across markets
17:06 AI’s impact on business and operations
24:40 The future of work, trades, and education
29:32 New opportunities and future ventures
32:50 Company culture and working environments
38:14 Entrepreneurship lessons and mindset
40:29 Routines, habits, and daily structure
46:12 Final thoughts and closing remarks

Keywords

real estate, lending, entrepreneurship, sales strategies, team building, market challenges, personal habits, technology in business, work-life balance, growth mindset

Summary

In this conversation, Chris Tereo shares his journey from real estate investor to co-founder of i Fund Cities (IFC), a private lending company. He discusses the challenges of balancing personal life with professional ambitions, the importance of building a strong team, and the strategies that have led to significant growth in his business. Chris emphasizes the need for drive, consistency, and effective communication in partnerships, as well as the role of technology in enhancing business operations. He also reflects on his daily routines and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Takeaways

Success requires hard work and dedication.
Waking up early is essential for productivity.
Building strong partnerships is crucial for business growth.
Sales skills can be innate but can also be developed.
Navigating market challenges requires adaptability.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important.
Technology can enhance business efficiency and effectiveness.
Effective communication is key in partnerships.
Personal habits significantly impact professional performance.
Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for success.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Success
03:02 Transitioning from Real Estate to Lending
05:48 Building a Strong Team and Partnerships
09:01 Sales Strategies and Team Development
11:53 Navigating Market Challenges
14:50 The Growth of i Fund Cities
18:00 Future Aspirations and Market Expansion
20:59 Daily Routines and Personal Habits
24:08 Balancing Work and Family Life
26:58 Leveraging Technology in Business
30:14 Final Thoughts and Advice

Keywords

real estate, family business, COVID-19, Stretch Zone, entrepreneurship, shopping centers, health and wellness, flexibility, injury prevention, commercial real estate, corporate packages, mobile operations, expansion plans, franchise growth, staffing challenges, unique culture, work-life balance, daily routines, personal connections, delegation, empowering teams, positive energy, technology, AI, business efficiency, change management, life reflections, gratitude

Summary

In this conversation, Jason Abrams shares his journey in the real estate industry, reflecting on his family’s influence and how his career evolved over time. He discusses the challenges brought on by COVID-19, which led him to explore new business opportunities and ultimately expand into Stretch Zone, a health and wellness brand focused on flexibility, recovery, and injury prevention. Jason highlights the importance of building strong tenant relationships in real estate and explains how understanding people is at the core of creating long-term value. The discussion expands to leadership, delegation, and the role of personal connections in building successful teams. Jason and Brian also explore the impact of technology—particularly AI—and how it’s reshaping business operations, communication, and decision-making. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of empowering teams, fostering positive energy, and maintaining gratitude amid a constantly evolving business landscape.

Takeaways

Jason’s early exposure to real estate shaped his career path.

COVID-19 opened new business opportunities, including Stretch Zone.

Tenant mix is key to successful shopping center development.

Stretch Zone offers a unique approach to flexibility, recovery, and wellness.

Real estate continues to evolve toward mixed-use, experience-driven centers.

Family dynamics play a major role in business growth and decision-making.

Understanding people and market needs is central to long-term success.

Post-COVID, health and wellness have become core lifestyle priorities.

Strong community relationships drive value in real estate.

In leadership and relationships, always give 51 percent and lead with generosity.

Surround yourself with people who share your values and energy.

AI is transforming how we work and communicate.

Gratitude and positive energy are essential to fulfillment in business and life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jason Abrams and His Background

07:31 The Family Business and Real Estate Development

14:28 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Ventures

20:12 Exploring Stretch Zone and Its Unique Offerings

26:09 Corporate Packages and Mobile Operations

27:43 Expansion Plans and Location Strategy

29:46 Franchise Growth and Staffing Challenges

32:27 Building a Unique Culture and Team Dynamics

34:42 Lessons Learned in Entrepreneurship

42:59 Work-Life Balance and Daily Routines

52:47 Navigating Personal Connections and Delegation

54:53 Empowering Teams and Building Connections

56:56 The Power of Giving and Positive Energy

01:00:03 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

01:01:51 The Future of AI in Business

01:07:01 Embracing Change and the Role of AI

01:17:04 Reflections on Life and Time Management

Keywords

real estate, family business, COVID-19, Stretch Zone, entrepreneurship, shopping centers, health and wellness, flexibility, injury prevention, commercial real estate, corporate packages, mobile operations, expansion plans, franchise growth, staffing challenges, unique culture, work-life balance, daily routines, personal connections, delegation, empowering teams, positive energy, technology, AI, business efficiency, change management, life reflections, gratitude

Summary

In this conversation, Jason Abrams shares his journey in the real estate industry, reflecting on his family’s influence and how his career evolved over time. He discusses the challenges brought on by COVID-19, which led him to explore new business opportunities and ultimately expand into Stretch Zone, a health and wellness brand focused on flexibility, recovery, and injury prevention. Jason highlights the importance of building strong tenant relationships in real estate and explains how understanding people is at the core of creating long-term value. The discussion expands to leadership, delegation, and the role of personal connections in building successful teams. Jason and Brian also explore the impact of technology—particularly AI—and how it’s reshaping business operations, communication, and decision-making. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of empowering teams, fostering positive energy, and maintaining gratitude amid a constantly evolving business landscape.

Takeaways

Jason’s early exposure to real estate shaped his career path.

COVID-19 opened new business opportunities, including Stretch Zone.

Tenant mix is key to successful shopping center development.

Stretch Zone offers a unique approach to flexibility, recovery, and wellness.

Real estate continues to evolve toward mixed-use, experience-driven centers.

Family dynamics play a major role in business growth and decision-making.

Understanding people and market needs is central to long-term success.

Post-COVID, health and wellness have become core lifestyle priorities.

Strong community relationships drive value in real estate.

In leadership and relationships, always give 51 percent and lead with generosity.

Surround yourself with people who share your values and energy.

AI is transforming how we work and communicate.

Gratitude and positive energy are essential to fulfillment in business and life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jason Abrams and His Background

07:31 The Family Business and Real Estate Development

14:28 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Ventures

20:12 Exploring Stretch Zone and Its Unique Offerings

26:09 Corporate Packages and Mobile Operations

27:43 Expansion Plans and Location Strategy

29:46 Franchise Growth and Staffing Challenges

32:27 Building a Unique Culture and Team Dynamics

34:42 Lessons Learned in Entrepreneurship

42:59 Work-Life Balance and Daily Routines

52:47 Navigating Personal Connections and Delegation

54:53 Empowering Teams and Building Connections

56:56 The Power of Giving and Positive Energy

01:00:03 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

01:01:51 The Future of AI in Business

01:07:01 Embracing Change and the Role of AI

01:17:04 Reflections on Life and Time Management

Keywords

real estate, entrepreneurship, development, success, life lessons, community building, personal growth, investment, business journey, Philadelphia

Summary

In this episode, Dan Borkson shares his transformative journey from working in a restaurant to becoming a successful real estate developer in Philadelphia. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including a weekend seminar where one simple lesson about buying, improving, and selling properties inspired him to pursue real estate. Dan discusses the challenges and successes he faced while growing his career, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, learning from mistakes, and taking responsibility for one’s actions. He also highlights the value of community-focused development and the impact of creating meaningful projects.

Takeaways

Real estate can be a life-changing opportunity if approached correctly.

Sometimes, a single lesson can have a profound impact on your life.

It’s never too late to start your entrepreneurial journey.

Building relationships and networking is crucial in real estate.

Learning from mistakes is essential for growth and success.

Community building can be as rewarding as financial success.

Stay adaptable and open to new opportunities in your career.

Don’t let others discourage you from pursuing your goals.

Success often comes from persistence and hard work.

Taking responsibility for your actions is key to personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 The Awakening: Discovering Real Estate

11:50 From Waiter to Developer: The Journey Begins

23:34 Building Momentum: The Rise in Real Estate

35:26 Transforming Communities: The Bigger Picture

47:01 Lessons Learned: Reflections on Success and Growth

Keywords

entrepreneurship, ethical hacking, cybersecurity, awareness, nation-state hacking, cybercrime, new entrepreneurs, company culture, business values, entrepreneurship, core values, leadership, team building, personal growth, technical skills, human interaction, organizational growth, future vision

Summary

In this conversation, Tim Wainwright discusses his journey from ethical hacker to CEO of Security Risk Advisors, emphasizing the importance of experience in the cybersecurity field. He explains the evolution of ethical hacking, the significance of awareness in cybersecurity, and the challenges posed by nation-state sponsored hacking. Tim also provides valuable advice for new entrepreneurs on establishing security protocols and building a strong company culture based on personal values. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of core values in entrepreneurship, the importance of building a strong team, and the evolution of personal purpose in business. They discuss the necessity of technical skills in cybersecurity while emphasizing the value of human interaction. Leadership qualities and the growth of organizations are explored, alongside a vision for the future of SRA and its legacy in the cybersecurity field.

Takeaways

Tim Wainwright does not see himself as a traditional entrepreneur.

Experience in the field is crucial before starting a business.

Ethical hacking is a diverse profession with various backgrounds.

Awareness is key in preventing cyber-attacks.

Nation-state hacking is a growing concern in cybersecurity.

Cybercrime is becoming increasingly specialized and technical.

Multi-factor authentication is essential for all organizations.

Company culture should encourage personal connections among employees.

Values in business should reflect the founders’ experiences.

The motivation for cybercrime is primarily financial.

Embrace core values early in entrepreneurship.

Use core values as a decision-making filter.

Building a strong team accelerates success.

Leadership involves handing off responsibilities.

Your career growth should consider the team’s needs.

Technical skills remain essential in cybersecurity.

Human interaction is crucial for career advancement.

Feedback is vital for organizational health.

Growth should align with personal and team development. Legacy in business is about impacting others’ careers.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Entrepreneurship

02:59 Understanding Ethical Hacking

05:58 The Evolution of Cybersecurity

08:56 The Role of Awareness in Cybersecurity

11:51 Nation-State Sponsored Hacking

15:08 The Future of Cybercrime

18:02 Advice for New Entrepreneurs

21:13 Building a Company Culture

24:05 The Importance of Values in Business

29:16 Embracing Core Values in Entrepreneurship

34:33 Building a Strong Team and Leadership

45:19 The Evolution of Purpose in Entrepreneurship

46:32 The Importance of Technical Skills and Human Interaction

49:07 Leadership and Growth in Organizations

52:05 Future Vision and Legacy of SRA

Keywords

AI, real estate, lead generation, business scaling, entrepreneurship, team building, market expansion, daily routines, success strategies, Noah Ostroff, morning routine, fitness, work-life balance, AI in real estate, mentorship, business growth, passive income, future aspirations

Summary

In this conversation, Noah Ostroff, CEO of Center City Development, discusses the transformative impact of AI on the real estate industry, his personal journey into real estate, effective lead generation techniques, the importance of building a strong team, and the challenges of scaling a business. He shares insights on market expansion and the entrepreneurial mindset, emphasizing the need for daily routines and the value of surrounding oneself with talented individuals to achieve success. The speakers also delve into their morning routines, highlighting the importance of fitness and mental health. They explore work-life balance, the role of technology in real estate, and the significance of mentorship in business growth. The discussion further touches on future aspirations and the desire to create meaningful projects.

Takeaways

AI will disrupt the real estate industry in various ways.

Real estate is fundamentally a relationship business.

Utilizing AI tools can enhance productivity in real estate.

Lead generation is crucial for success in real estate.

Staying consistent with business development is key.

Promoting oneself is essential for new agents.

Recognizing opportunities is a vital skill in real estate.

Cutting unnecessary expenses can improve profitability.

Surrounding oneself with talented individuals is important for growth.

Daily routines and discipline contribute to entrepreneurial success. Sleep is really important to me.

I need to stay in a rhythm with my workouts.

Working out gives me energy throughout the day.

Work-life balance is crucial for personal happiness.

AI will disrupt the real estate industry in various ways.

Utilizing AI can enhance efficiency in business processes.

Having a profit and loss statement is essential for business success.

Mentorship can come from outside your industry.

Focus on lead generation and business development.

Creating projects that I’m proud of is my ultimate goal.

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of AI on Real Estate

03:02 Noah’s Journey into Real Estate

06:12 Lead Generation Techniques

09:11 Building a Real Estate Team

11:50 Scaling the Business

15:09 Expansion into New Markets

18:02 The Entrepreneurial Mindset

20:57 Daily Routines and Success Strategies

24:35 Morning Routines and Fitness Habits

30:22 Work-Life Balance and Daily Structure

32:06 The Impact of AI on Real Estate

40:21 Mentorship and Business Growth

45:16 Future Aspirations and Projects