The New How Podcast

Brian Corcodilos

Building Businesses and Real Estate in a New Age of Technology

  1. Apr 15

    #49 - Roman Ovrutsky

    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

    1 hr
  2. Mar 18

    #48 - The Boyle Brothers

    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

    47 min
  3. Jan 19

    #47 - Chris Tereo

    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

    43 min
  4. 11/12/2025

    #46 - Jason Abrams

    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

    1h 22m
  5. 10/14/2025

    #45 - Dan Borkson

    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

    49 min
  6. 06/24/2025

    #44 - Tim Wainwright

    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

    59 min
  7. 06/03/2025

    #43 - Noah Ostroff

    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

    49 min
  8. 05/13/2025

    #42 - Tom Familetti

    Keywords real estate, development, luxury homes, construction, Philadelphia, investment, entrepreneurship, market strategies, challenges, Tom Familetti, Florida living, team structure, business processes, market expansion, real estate challenges, entrepreneur habits, patience, business growth Summary In this conversation, Tom Familetti, co-founder and CEO of Zatos Investments, shares his journey into real estate development, emphasizing the importance of focusing on small, daily improvements rather than just big goals. He discusses his transition from flipping houses to developing luxury properties, the challenges of construction in Philadelphia, and the strategies for expanding into other markets like Florida. Tom highlights the differences in market dynamics and construction processes between Philadelphia and Florida, providing insights into the real estate industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of entrepreneurship, including the appeal of living in Florida, the importance of a strong team structure, effective business processes, and the challenges faced in the real estate market. They share insights on daily habits that contribute to success and reflect on valuable lessons learned throughout their entrepreneurial journeys. Takeaways Don’t focus solely on big goals; small steps matter. Tom Familetti’s journey began in mortgage insurance. Flipping houses led to a passion for development. Luxury real estate offers exciting design opportunities. Construction challenges in Philadelphia are unique. Understanding the market is key to successful development. Outsourcing sales allows focus on core competencies. Building in different states requires local expertise. Design features should appeal to target demographics. Development processes can vary significantly by location. Florida offers a different lifestyle that many find appealing. Clear roles within a team enhance efficiency and accountability. Implementing structured business processes is crucial for growth. Focusing on existing markets before expanding is a strategic approach. Transparency and communication are key in navigating market challenges. Daily habits, such as early rising and exercise, contribute to productivity. Patience is an essential trait for entrepreneurs to develop. Focusing on small, daily improvements leads to long-term success. Loving what you do helps sustain motivation during tough times. Entrepreneurship requires discipline and the ability to pivot. Chapters 00:00 Focusing on the Small Steps 00:52 Tom Familetti’s Journey into Real Estate 03:03 From Flipping Houses to Development 05:52 Transitioning to Luxury Real Estate 09:00 Challenges of Construction in Philadelphia 12:00 Diverse Projects and Market Strategies 15:00 Expanding Beyond Philadelphia 18:02 Comparing Markets: Philadelphia vs. Florida 18:30 The Appeal of Florida Living 19:39 Building a Strong Team Structure 20:48 Implementing Effective Business Processes 22:36 Vision for Expansion and Market Focus 24:13 Navigating Market Challenges 26:20 Daily Habits of Successful Entrepreneurs 30:57 Lessons from the Journey of Entrepreneurship

    36 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

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Building Businesses and Real Estate in a New Age of Technology