Episódios
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Charlie has been shaping the fabric of Fort Lauderdale for over three decades — not just as a developer, but as a local who never left.
On this episode, we sit down with Charlie to trace his journey from the late 1980s to today — from his early work with Amera Companies to founding Barron Real Estate in 1991. He’s worn every hat: developer, leasing agent, and even contractor on multiple projects across South Florida.
Charlie shares stories from his time as an officer with the Florida subsidiary of Symcor Properties, where he oversaw leasing and development of four buildings in Northeast Fort Lauderdale and seven shopping centers. He also breaks down how he’s helped transform Las Olas and downtown Fort Lauderdale long before it was a hot market.
Beyond the deals, Charlie is an active downtown resident and civic leader, serving on the boards of the Downtown Development Authority and Riverwalk Trust, and formerly with the Downtown Council.
We get into real estate cycles, tenant-driven development, and what 40+ years in the game has taught him about betting on neighborhoods before anyone else sees the vision.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
From Club Space to Regatta Grove, Emi Guerra has seen it all. We trace his journey from hustling in high school as a club promoter to launching iconic venues like Club Space, The Wharf, and Regatta Grove. Emi opens up about the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship — the early struggles, near-collapse, and the eventual rise of Breakwater Hospitality.
It’s a raw, insightful look at what it takes to build Miami’s most memorable nightlife and hospitality experiences and a powerful reminder that you don’t fail until you quit.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
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Lissette Calderon showed up to the studio with a bottle of Casa Dragones tequila and got right to business—just like she has her entire career. From her childhood growing up near the Miami River to becoming one of the most visionary developers in South Florida, Lissette’s story is nothing short of inspiring.
In an industry historically dominated by men, this proud Cuban-American carved her own path. After attending Coral Gables High, she headed to The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and eventually returned to Miami to work at the Related Group. But it didn’t take long for her entrepreneurial drive to kick in.
Motivated by the lack of affordable housing and inspired by the city she calls home, Lissette took a bold leap. She put a development site under contract near the Miami River and launched Neo Lofts—her first project and a spark that would ignite a full-blown transformation of the area. With the success of Neo Lofts, Lissette followed up with Neo Vertika, Wind by Neo, and Pier 19 Residences & Marina, earning her the nickname “Queen of the Miami River.”
But her impact didn’t stop there. Lissette turned her sights on Allapattah, completing No. 17 Residences in 2021, and is now delivering two more communities—The Julia and Fourteen Allapattah Residences—in 2024. Her latest project, a massive 1,350-unit mixed-use community in the Palmer Lake District, sits across from the future site of Miami Freedom Park and is set to break ground later this year.
From Penn to pioneering Miami’s most overlooked neighborhoods, Lissette Calderon is proof of what vision, grit, and relentless determination can build—especially when the odds are stacked against you.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
In this episode, we sat down over a couple of Old Fashioneds with David Lombardi — a true Miami original, Wynwood pioneer, and lifelong lover of architecture.
David opens up about his journey from humble beginnings — growing up as an only child in a one-bedroom apartment with a single mom — to launching a restaurant, grinding through real estate deals on South Beach, and eventually acquiring small multifamily buildings on Miami Beach.
But it was his passion for design and architecture that led him to see something special in a forgotten pocket of the city. In the early 2000s, he started buying warehouses in what’s now known as Wynwood, partnering with artists, and helping fuel a cultural and real estate movement that changed Miami forever.
This is a raw, unfiltered conversation with one of Miami’s most visionary voices. David doesn’t hold back — and his story is nothing short of inspirational.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Two of South Florida’s sharpest data minds dropped by Büro for a couple of cocktails and a deep dive into the numbers shaping our region’s real estate market. Anthony and Juan joined us to unpack the real impact of tariffs on real estate and construction costs.
We also got into the weeds on demographic shifts, new construction trends, and the Florida Legislature’s half-baked idea to eliminate property taxes (yeah, we went there).
From hard data to bold predications, this was an insightful and entertaining episode with two guys who truly know the market and data better than anyone.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Michael Simkins stopped by the pod with a bottle of E11EVEN Vodka in hand, and let’s just say—cocktails were poured, stories were shared, and the energy was very Miami.
We talked about growing up in Miami Beach, his detour to Brooklyn Law, and his early days at Akerman before jumping into real estate with small deals around town. It wasn’t long before Michael set his sights on Overtown and Park West, quietly assembling land and betting big on neighborhoods others overlooked.
Then came the game-changer: acquiring the former Gold Rush strip club and transforming it into what’s now the globally recognized E11EVEN nightclub—an ultra club that’s as Miami as it gets. And he’s not stopping there—the brand is now making moves into the hotel-condo world.
A wild ride from spreadsheets to strobe lights—this one’s not to be missed.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Scott joined us for a couple of glasses of afternoon Tequila Ocho Reposado and a great conversation about his journey through the world of real estate.
Born and raised in South Florida (with a solid NYC accent courtesy of his parents), Scott discovered his passion for real estate while earning his accounting degree at the University of Florida. That passion led him to New York City, where he started his career in Ernst & Young’s real estate division before moving to the acquisition side at Thor Equities. It was there that he found his niche—investing in Main Street placemaking opportunities, especially in Miami.
In 2016, he launched Tricera Capital, and in 2022, he co-founded Torose Equities.
We cover everything from his days playing high school water polo to his obsession with hot sauces (yes, he brought some for us to try). Bonus: we paired them with some seriously good wings from one of his tenants.
It’s a fun, flavorful episode you won’t want to miss.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
In this episode, Isaac shares his inspiring journey from dropping out of high school to following his entrepreneurial instincts, successfully starting and selling a landscaping business in Tel Aviv—all before the age of 16. He later ventured into private lending, amassing $1.5 million by his mid-20s. However, Isaac's fortunes dramatically reversed when he lost everything in the dot-com crash shortly after relocating to Miami with his wife in 1999.
With a child on the way and feeling down but not out, Isaac, supported by his wife, rebuilt his life by entering the mortgage brokerage industry. Quickly rising to become a top producer, Isaac discovered a passion for deal-making. Now known as a self-proclaimed "deal junkie," he has since collaborated on resi deals with industry heavyweights such as Related Group, Lennar, The Kolter Group, and PEBB Enterprises.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Felix joined us on the pod—and yes, he brought along his signature Bendersky Scotch blend—to talk all things Miami F&B. Born and raised in the hospitality scene, Felix's journey started in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, where his Ukrainian immigrant parents owned and operated a nightclub. After making waves as a nightclub promoter at Northeastern University in Boston, Felix founded NightOwl Deliveries, eventually acquired by Grubhub.
An entrepreneur through and through, Felix's next venture, Green Star Biodiesel, provided him with unique insights into Miami’s restaurant scene, tracking which establishments were thriving by analyzing their used cooking oil. Recognizing a golden opportunity, Felix pivoted fully into brokerage, dedicating his career to food and beverage deals.
Today, Felix’s firm, F+B Hospitality Leasing, stands out as an indispensable resource, offering unmatched insights into South Florida’s ever-evolving F&B landscape.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
From his roots in Montreal to building one of South Florida’s leading industrial construction firms, Malcolm Butters shares his journey with us over a Monkey 47 Gin & Ginger Ale. Real estate runs in the Butters family—his father started investing in multifamily apartments back in Montreal, planting the seed for what would become a powerhouse business.
After earning a Master’s in Real Estate from FIU, Malcolm and his brother launched Butters, diving into speculative industrial development in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Fast forward, and they’ve expanded to developing warehouse parks throughout South Florida, shaping the region’s industrial landscape.
But this conversation isn’t just about business—Malcolm dishes on his stand-up comedy days, his spot-on Donald Trump impersonation, and his undeniable weakness for cheese danishes.
Grab a drink and join us for a fun, insightful chat with one of the most dynamic figures in South Florida real estate!
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
From soaking up the sun on Israeli beaches to flipping one of the most iconic hotels in NYC, Miki Naftali’s real estate journey is the definition of a wild ride.
Miki’s story starts in Israel, but things really took off when he landed at USC and pulled off his first off-market deal in Los Angeles—before he even had a business card. After cutting his teeth in Tel Aviv, he set his sights on the U.S. once again, eventually making waves in the ultra-competitive New York City condo market.
Then came the power move: buying and transforming the legendary Plaza Hotel. That deal didn’t just make headlines—it cemented his status as a real estate heavyweight. Fast forward to today, and Miki’s leading Naftali Group, shaping the skylines of NYC and South Florida with high-end residential developments.
Talking to Miki felt like stepping into the war room of a real estate empire—big vision, bold strategies, and stories you need to hear about navigating the financial crisis.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Jorge Garcia’s journey is the kind of immigrant success story that deserves a toast over a glass of red wine. Arriving in Miami during the 1960s Cuban exodus, his family settled in Liberty City, where he quickly learned the art of resilience. That grit took him to the University of Miami’s School of Architecture, and eventually, to the bold decision to launch his own firm with partner Peter Stromberg.
From designing public bathrooms for free to transforming The Boca Raton Resort & Club for Wayne Huizenga and Michael Dell, Jorge’s career has been a masterclass in reinvention. In this episode, he shares the twists, turns, and untold stories behind his architectural legacy—and the evolution of South Florida itself.
Pour yourself a glass and tune in.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
What does it take to shape a city’s skyline and close nearly $17 billion in transactions? In this episode, we sit down with Michael over an Old Fashioned to talk about his four-decade journey in commercial real estate.
Michael’s path wasn’t always smooth—he went from riding the short bus in middle school to becoming a powerhouse dealmaker, playing a key role in Miami’s transformation. His expertise spans capital markets, REO (Real Estate Owned) and note sales, and strategic planning for major corporate real estate accounts.
We dive into market trends, the art of uncovering hidden opportunities, and why South Florida remains an investment magnet. Plus, Michael breaks down the mindset behind long-term success in the industry—because it’s never just about the numbers.
Tune in, pour yourself a drink, and get ready for some serious insights.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Charles Foschini didn’t just bring his A-game to the podcast—he also brought a bottle of Fortaleza tequila (because that’s how deals really get done). Born in New Jersey, Charles went from being a lifeguard and Eagle Scout to escaping the cold and heading straight for the 305. He didn’t just dip his toes in—he dove all in, earning an undergraduate degree, an MBA, and a law degree from the University of Miami.
After starting his career brokering office leases, Charles found his true calling in capital markets. Now, as Senior Managing Director at Berkadia, he’s been instrumental in the sale and financing of commercial and multifamily properties totaling over $25 billion, including landmark transactions exceeding $200 million. Before Berkadia, he was Vice Chairman at CBRE, where he ranked as a top national producer.
Charles isn’t just a power player in real estate—he’s also shaped the industry as an adjunct professor at the University of Miami’s prestigious LLM program in real property. He’s a sought-after speaker at major real estate conferences like ULI, NAIOP, and ICSC, sharing insights from decades of deal-making.
From lifeguarding to law school to leading the charge in commercial real estate finance, Charles has done it all. And in this episode, he shares the stories (and the tequila) that got him here.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Carlos joined us on the podcast over a classic Negroni to share his remarkable journey as a real estate developer. Hailing from a family of architects in Buenos Aires, Carlos earned his architecture degree at the University of Buenos Aires before spending a decade in the Middle East with Besix, mastering the art of construction. His journey then took him to Boston, where he earned a Master’s in Real Estate Development from MIT.
In South Florida, Carlos became a pivotal figure in the industry during his nearly 20-year tenure at Related Group as Jorge Pérez’s right hand, serving as the President of Condo Development. During this time, he oversaw the creation of some of Miami’s most iconic projects, including SLS Lux, SLS Brickell, Brickell Heights, Residences by Armani/Casa, and the Paraiso complex in Edgewater, culminating in over 16,000 units developed.
Since launching Rosso Development in 2020, Carlos has honed his focus on high-end boutique properties. One standout project is a collaboration with Standard International and Midtown Development—a stunning 12-story condominium with 228 units. With a commitment to enhancing Miami's urban landscape, Carlos is deeply invested in Midtown's evolution, envisioning mixed-use developments that bridge communities and promote walkability.
Carlos is also an Advisory Board Member for the University of Miami's Masters in Real Estate Development and Urbanism program.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a seasoned developer that has seen it all in the 305!
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Juan joined us for a glass of Johnnie Walker Double Black and brought along his crystal ball to share insights into the future of South Florida’s commercial real estate market. We dove into everything from retail and land to office, multifamily, and—our favorite—industrial real estate.
Spoiler alert: South Florida is booming, thanks to its dynamic real estate landscape and growing demographics.
Tune in for a lively discussion filled with laughs, fascinating data, and plenty of real estate nerding-out. You won’t want to miss it!
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
This week, we share a glass of Chardonnay with Tere, whose life has taken her from Havana to the heart of Miami's commercial real estate world. Her story begins in Cuba, followed by childhood in Puerto Rico and high school in Venezuela. After graduating from the University of Miami, she entered the world of sales, where she discovered her passion for CRE. Tere honed her skills at Codina Realty Services and later led South Florida operations for Cushman & Wakefield. In 2009, she took a leap of faith and founded Blanca Commercial Real Estate, a firm that has since become synonymous with office leasing in Miami. Over a glass of wine, Tere shares her incredible journey, including how Blanca Commercial Real Estate achieved an impressive 32% market share in Class A and B office leasing transactions.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Jennifer Sanz joined us for a rum & coke and a lively conversation about affordable housing and her journey through politics and real estate development.
From her early days at the Pentagon to leading Florida Housing Finance Corporations's tax credit program, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience from both public policy and affordable housing development.
Her career began after her dreams of becoming an F-22 fighter pilot were dashed by the Air Force. Instead, she found herself at the heart of U.S. politics, serving as an aide to the Secretary of State during the 2000 election recount—a trial by fire that set the stage for her future work in public service.
Jennifer eventually joined Florida Housing, where she made a lasting impact before being recruited to what she jokingly calls "the dark side"—for-profit real estate development. At Pinnacle Housing, she helped build thousands of affordable housing units, overseeing everything from land acquisition to leasing up new communities.
This episode is packed with stories, insights, and a refreshing take on how policy and profit can intersect to address housing challenges.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
Gopal Rajegowda joined us on The Built World Podcast for a Negroni and a fascinating conversation about his stellar career with Related Companies.
As a first-generation Indian-American, Gopal’s journey began in a New York City suburb before taking him to Cornell University. While his passion for real estate and architecture sparked early, it truly ignited during his time at Columbia University, where he earned an M.A. in Real Estate Development.
Gopal’s first big splash at Related Companies was The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, where he played a pivotal role in retail, hospitality, and placemaking. Post-Vegas, he shifted gears to the monumental Hudson Yards project in NYC. By 2013, Gopal turned his focus to Related’s West Palm Beach portfolio, and by 2016, he made WPB home, spearheading the redevelopment of CityPlace and the Hilton Hotel at the Palm Beach Convention Center.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. -
This week we popped open a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and took a walk down memory lane with Donna Abood, a true powerhouse in the real estate world. With over 40 years of experience, Donna’s journey is as inspiring as it is impressive.
Real estate runs in her veins—her father was a developer in St. Petersburg, but Donna carved her own path. After graduating from FSU, she made the bold move to Miami instead of joining her family’s business. She quickly made waves in property management and brokerage, specializing in office leasing.
Donna’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to found Abood & Associates in 1989, where she served as the sole owner and acting principal. In 2002, she joined forces with Michael Fay to create Abood Wood-Fay Real Estate Group, which eventually became part of Avison Young in 2014. There, Donna made history as the first woman Managing Director of an Avison Young office, overseeing everything from business development to tenant and landlord representation across Miami-Dade County.
With more than 80 million square feet of office leases under her belt and hundreds of tenant representation deals completed, Donna’s track record speaks for itself. Now, as Vice Chairman and Co-Head of the Florida Region at Savills, she’s leading the charge in expanding the firm’s presence throughout the state.
Join us as Donna shares lessons from her storied career, insights on navigating the ever-changing real estate market, and what it takes to be a trailblazer in a competitive industry.
Connect with us
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn
We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida. - Mostrar mais