Broker's Angle

Episode 29: Maxine Rosen, Associate Director at Savills

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

On this episode of Broker’s Angle, Maxine Rosen shares how she started her brokerage career just days before the pandemic and why she never lost faith in the role offices play in bringing people together. From uncertainty to perseverance, she shares why human connection will always keep the office relevant.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 28: Noam Aziz, Senior Director at Meridian Retail Leasing

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Broker's Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Noam Aziz of Meridian, a young commercial leasing broker who’s proving that success isn’t about age, it’s about action. At only 21, he’s closed hundreds of leases, built a growing team, and outworked the competition, one phone call at a time. This episode dives into the mindset, discipline, and strategy behind rapid success in commercial real estate.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 27: Benjamin Schanzer of Norman Bobrow

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:23:38 GMT

On this episode of Brokers Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Benjamin Schanzer of Norman Bobrow to talk about making the leap from retail to office leasing, the realities of cold calling, and why brokerage is ultimately a people business. Benjamin shares how mentorship, market knowledge, patience, and genuine connection shape successful deals, and why setting expectations early is everything. A candid conversation on growth, grit, and what it really takes to build a lasting career in commercial real estate.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 26: James Famularo, President at Meridian Retail Leasing

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 14:39:18 GMT

In this episode of Broker’s Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with James Famularo for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of the retail market and what truly drives successful real estate deals. Drawing on more than two decades of experience, James shares why retail remains resilient regardless of who is in office, highlights the hottest tenant categories, from food and beverage to health and wellness, and explains the critical role funding and passion play in an operator’s success.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 25: Michael Davis, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Compass

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 20:47:41 GMT

In this episode of Brokers Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Michael Davis, a seasoned New York City real estate broker at Compass, to discuss his unique career trajectory, insights into the commercial and residential markets, and the systems that have fueled his long-term success. Michael shares an optimistic outlook for both residential and commercial markets heading into 2026, noting increased activity, more reasonable landlord pricing, and rising competition, all reinforcing his belief that New York City remains an electrifying place to do business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 24: Jacob Wolkenfeld, Managing Director at Norman Bobrow & Co.

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Broker's Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Jacob Wolkenfeld, Managing Director at Norman Bobrow & Co., to discuss his journey and approach to commercial real estate. Starting as an intern at 21, Jacob built his business from scratch through cold outreach, persistence, and what he calls “mental fortitude.” He shares how focusing solely on tenant representation allows him to align completely with clients’ interests and how consistent activity, strong follow-up systems, and long hours have fueled his success. Jacob discusses the current strength of Manhattan’s office market and the importance of conviction and resilience for new brokers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 23: Alex Turboff, Executive Vice President and Head of Food & Beverage at MONA

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Brokers Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Alex Turboff, Executive Vice President and Head of Food & Beverage at Mona. With more than two decades of experience in restaurant real estate, Alex shares insights on the unique challenges of New York’s F&B market, from rising construction costs and liquor license delays to the critical role of due diligence in site selection.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 22: Gabe Marans, Vice Chairman at Savills

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 19:33:28 GMT

In this episode of Broker's Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Gabe Marans, Vice Chairman at Savills and the #2 ranked CRE voice on social media. Gabe shares how he went from cold calls at 6 AM to building a 10,000-contact database, and how LinkedIn video and zagging when others zig helped scale his business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 21: Richard Plehn, Senior Managing Director at Lee & Associates NYC

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Broker’s Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Richard Plehn who shares how market insight, client-first thinking, and a Socratic approach have shaped his success over decades in New York City's commercial real estate. Tune in to hear why data is the new differentiator and what it really takes to make a smart deal in today’s market.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 20: Doug Regal, Managing Director at JLL

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Broker’s Angle, Doug Regal shares his 22-year journey through New York City commercial real estate, from property management to tenant representation. We discuss what keeps tenants happy, how tech companies’ space needs have evolved, and why modern brokerage must embrace technology.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 19: Kirill Azovtsev, Vice Chairman at Savills

Thu, 15 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Brokers Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Kirill Azovtsev, whose story is a compelling tale of perseverance, adaptability, and success against the odds. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Russia, Kirill arrived in the U.S. on a tennis scholarship, barely speaking English and with no prior exposure to American culture or business. What began as a leap of faith into an unfamiliar country eventually turned into a thriving career in New York City, one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 18: Elliot Zelinger, Senior Managing Director at Savitt Partners

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Elliot Zelinger to talk about how a psychology major pivoted into commercial real estate and never looked back. From old-school canvassing to modern deal-making, Elliot shares nearly 20 years of insights, trends shaping the market, and how relationships have fueled his success.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 17: Beth Rosen, Executive Vice President at RIPCO Real Estate

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Brokers Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Beth Rosen to discuss the art of preparation and how in-depth research and understanding of the market can add value to clients in the competitive retail space. From Madison Avenue's evolution to the challenges of finding the perfect retail space, Beth shares valuable insights on staying ahead of trends and the human side of real estate.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 16: Cory Zelnik, Founder and CEO of Zelnik & Company

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with Cory Zelnik who shares his journey from walking the streets to navigating New York's ever-evolving retail landscape. Cory dives into how he grew his business, the power of staying hands-on, and the trends shaping NYC retail today. From luxury brands to the impact of COVID and even the challenges of crime in the city, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real estate and retail trends.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 15: Matthew Seigel, Co-Founder of Lantern

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Matthew Siegel, Co-Founder of Lantern, to discuss his journey in commercial real estate—from his early days at Cushman & Wakefield to co-founding his own firm. They dive into the importance of hard work, attention to detail, and long-term relationships in the brokerage business. Matthew shares valuable insights on building a service-driven, mission-oriented company and his thoughts on the evolving retail landscape.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 14: Ben Blumenthal, Principal Broker at NOAH

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 06:00:34 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Blumenthal of NOAH to dive into his journey from struggling through cold calls to founding a cutting-edge real estate brokerage that’s revolutionizing the industry. Ben shares how he built a platform combining technology, time management, and team support to empower brokers to do more deals in less time, plus, his unique insights into recruiting top talent, navigating the current real estate market, and even volunteering as an EMS in NYC.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 13: Justin Losh, Principal of Counter

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:00:36 GMT

In this episode, we welcome Justin Losh, Principal of Counter. Justin shares his path into commercial real estate and explains how he initially focused on apartment rentals but quickly transitioned to commercial real estate, drawn to the more dynamic and fulfilling work with small businesses, particularly in the food and beverage sector in Bushwick.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 12: Hunter Berman, Senior Market Director of Broker Partnerships for WeWork

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 16:57:21 GMT

In this episode, we welcome Hunter Berman, Senior Market Director of Broker Partnerships at WeWork. Hunter shares his journey into the field, the impact of the pandemic on workspace needs, and the growing demand for flexible office solutions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 11: Gregg Cohen, Principal at CRESA

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Broker's Angle, Hal Coopersmith sits down with Gregg Cohen, principal at CRESA, to delve into his journey from a career in investment banking to the world of commercial real estate. Gregg shares his fascinating transition from equity sales trading to becoming a leading tenant representative in the commercial real estate sector.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 10: Brandon Singer, CEO and Founder of Mona

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 19:39:01 GMT

Broker's Angle is Back! In the relaunch of Broker's Angle, we sit down with Brandon Singer, the founder of MONA. MONA stands for Making of a New Age and Brandon shares what he believes to be the new age of retail. Brandon shares his journey from leaving Cushman & Wakefield to starting MONA during the pandemic.

Tune in as we dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing modern brokers, discuss trends in retail, and get an insider's view of what’s next for MONA.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 9: Rene Hamilton of Helmsley Spear

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 18:26:32 GMT

In this episode we talk about the new requirements for residential leasing in New York State as a result of the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act. At 2:33, Rene Hamilton talks about starting a career as a real estate broker, how he has built his network, and his role in CURE (Council of Urban Real Estate) an organization dedicated to creating a diverse pipeline into the real estate industry.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 8: Joel Binstok of The York Group LLC

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 04:01:47 GMT

In this episode we talk about the COVID-19 Relief Package for personal liability provisions concerning tenants of commercial leases. At 2:21, Joel Binstok talks about auditing commercial leases on behalf of tenants, strategies brokers can use to save tenants money, and renegotiating terms amid the changing real estate landscape following COVID-19.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 7: Dan Marks of TerraCRG

Fri, 15 May 2020 14:41:19 GMT

In this episode we talk about sublease considerations for sublandlords and subtenants amid COVID-19. At 3:18 Dan Marks talks about the changing landscape of real estate following the sweeping rent regulations passed last summer, the world of commercial industrial leasing, and his strategies for success in the competitive market of New York City real estate.

More information on sublease considerations for sublandlords and subtenants amid COVID-19 available at: https://www.coopersmithandcoopersmith.com/2020/05/11/sublease-considerations-sublandlords-subtenants-covid-19/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6: Josh Berger of Norman Bobrow & Company

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 15:00:26 GMT

In this episode, Hal talks about how Coopersmith & Coopersmith is counseling landlords and commercial tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic. At 2:06, Josh Berger talks about how he built his reputation as a commercial broker when he first entered the industry, how he leads broker training at Norman Bobrow & Company, and how his passion for art and boxing have shown him the necessity for structure and balance within his professional career.

To speak to an attorney at Coopersmith & Coopersmith for a complimentary 15 minute consultation for navigating commercial leasing amid Covid-19 follow this link: https://www.coopersmithandcoopersmith.com/contact/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 5: Alan Wildes of Cushman & Wakefield

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 13:53:33 GMT

In this episode, Hal and Richard talk about using a Special Purpose Entity, Single Purpose Entity, or SPE to insulate tenants from liability when signing commercial leases. At 3:38, Alan Wildes talks about his experience negotiating commercial leases, adapting to a changing industry, and how his ethos when working with clients has led to his success

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 4: Jonathan Wasserstrum, CEO and Co-Founder of SquareFoot

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Hal and Richard talk about the differences between licensing and subleasing. At 2:50, Jonathan Wasserstrum talks about his company SquareFoot, the changing digital landscape of commercial leasing and the real value of commercial brokers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 3: Michael Berman of JLL

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 22:12:23 GMT

In this episode, Hal and Richard talk about rent inclusions in New York City commercial leases and some things to be on the lookout for when representing a Tenant. At 2:58, Michael Berman talks about Fosun's repositioning of 28 Liberty Street with Fosun, and how he has represented landlords and tenants in his career.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 2: Andrew Stein and Bert Rosenblatt of Vicus Partners

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 18:05:53 GMT

In this episode, Hal and Richard discuss what you need to know about the Commercial Rent Tax in Manhattan (not to be confused with real estate tax escalations). At 3:16, Andrew Stein and Bert Rosenblatt of Vicus Partners talk about how they started their own firm and how they found a niche with recent charter school deals.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1: Susan Penzner and Nathan Stange of Susan Penzner Real Estate

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 18:03:35 GMT

In this episode, Hal and Richard discuss what you need to know about Soho zoning. At 3:01, Susan Penzner and Nathan Stange of Susan Penzner Real Estate share their personal experiences closing noteworthy deals in Soho and Chelsea and how the area has transformed over time.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 0: Broker's Angle Trailer

Sat, 16 Nov 2019 18:45:16 GMT

Third generation New York City real estate attorney and New York Press Club award winning podcast host, Hal Coopersmith, Esq. provides a preview about what's coming up for Broker's Angle! We discuss our show format with Richard Coopersmith, Esq. and a little about the law firm of Coopersmith and Coopersmith.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.