In this episode of Beyond the Resume, we sit down with Russell Lang, President and CEO of Catholic Homes New York, for a wide-ranging conversation about affordable housing development, nonprofit leadership, community impact, and building a meaningful career in real estate.Russell shares the history of Catholic Homes New York, from parish-led housing development in the 1970s to its current portfolio of approximately 3,000 affordable housing units. He discusses the organization’s work with seniors, families, and residents who need supportive services, as well as its connection to Catholic Charities and a broader network of mission-aligned social service providers.The conversation also explores Russell’s professional journey through public agencies, nonprofit organizations, affordable housing finance, construction, and real estate development. Russell also offers practical advice for students and professionals interested in affordable housing careers. He explains why financial literacy, legal fluency, intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to serving communities are essential for successful developers and nonprofit executives. He also discusses what he looks for when hiring, the importance of building a strong team, and the mentors who helped shape his career.Chapters(00:00) The History and Mission of Catholic Homes New YorkRussell explains how parish-owned land and community needs led to the creation of Catholic Homes and its growing affordable housing portfolio.(03:07) Expanding Grand Street and Serving New York CommunitiesA look at the Grand Street Guild campus, new family and senior housing, and the geographic footprint Catholic Homes serves.(05:02) Leading an Affordable Housing NonprofitRussell discusses improving organizational performance, strengthening the resident experience, and positioning Catholic Homes for continued growth.(07:08) Housing, Social Services, and Catholic CharitiesHow Catholic Homes works with affiliated agencies to connect residents with foster care, mental health, family, and supportive services.(10:08) Russell’s Path into Community DevelopmentRussell reflects on Amherst, working in Bill Clinton’s post-presidency office, studying urban planning at NYU Wagner, and discovering affordable housing.(15:22) Finance, Tax Credits, and Public-Private PartnershipsThe importance of understanding low-income housing tax credits, eligible basis, construction, government programs, and the financial structure of affordable housing.(19:10) New York Housing Policy and Nonprofit DevelopmentRussell discusses limited resources, rising development costs, government partnerships, nonprofit participation, and the long-term value of community-based institutions.(21:27) What Makes a Strong Developer and CEO?Why curiosity, continuous learning, mission alignment, team building, and the willingness to understand every part of a project matter.(26:03) Career Advice for Future Affordable Housing LeadersRussell shares the skills aspiring executives should develop, including finance, legal knowledge, transparency, and comfort working directly with communities.(30:10) Memorable Projects, Mixed-Use Development, and Community ImpactRussell revisits formative projects involving affordable housing, retail spaces, daycare providers, grocery stores, and institutional partners.(34:02) Hiring for Curiosity, Ambition, and Career StoryWhat Russell looks for on a résumé, how he evaluates candidates, and why a coherent professional journey can lead to a strong interview.(35:53) Mentors Who Shaped Russell’s CareerRussell recognizes the colleagues, developers, finance professionals, and construction leaders who gave him opportunities to learn and grow.LINKSYouTube: https://youtu.be/gK8p14c1oH4Spotify: https://bit.ly/beyondtheresume-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9