BUILT DIFFERENT with Erin Sykes

Erin Sykes

BUILT DIFFERENT with Erin Sykes breaks down the structures that shape how we live, spend, and grow. From real estate and investing to the psychology of sales, shopping habits, and relationships, each episode explores the strategies and stories behind building a life of value. With a lens that’s both sophisticated and candid, Erin moves seamlessly between market insights, money mindset, and deeply personal conversations - because what we build isn’t just financial, it’s human. Listeners can expect thought-provoking conversations that bridge business and behavior, wealth and wellness, and strategy and soul. On BUILT DIFFERENT, you’ll learn how to: Navigate the ever-changing real estate and investment landscapeUnderstand the psychology behind spending, selling, and successShift your money mindset to align with your personal and professional goalsBuild resilience through challenges — in business, relationships, and lifeIntegrate emotional intelligence and practical strategy to create lasting valueFeatured guests include: Industry leaders and economists sharing market trends and wealth strategiesFounders, investors, and entrepreneurs redefining success on their own termsExperts in psychology, health, and relationships exploring the human side of growthReal people with powerful stories about building from the inside outBecause the truth is - what we build tells our story. And when you build differently, you live differently. TO CONNECT: BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida and produced by Hype Boss.

  1. Beyond Acquisition: Tony Frick on Private Equity, Property Management, and Long-Term Value

    MAY 14

    Beyond Acquisition: Tony Frick on Private Equity, Property Management, and Long-Term Value

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with Tony Frick, serial entrepreneur, attorney, Keystone Equity Partners Co-Founder, and Co-CEO of his latest venture, David Nicholas Building & Property Maintenance, a luxury property management company serving some of the Jersey Shore’s most exclusive homes. Tony talks about his unconventional path from professional lacrosse and law school to leading private equity-backed companies and building businesses across entirely different industries. Erin and Tony discuss how those experiences shaped the way he approaches leadership and long-term growth. The conversation dives into the rapid evolution of South Jersey’s luxury market and why barrier island communities are attracting a new generation of high-net-worth buyers. Tony explains the difference between traditional property maintenance and true real estate asset management, along with the growing need for proactive oversight. He also dives into the importance of trusted vendor relationships and white-glove service for second-home owners. Tony shares how David Nicholas is building a scalable business centered around operational discipline, human relationships, and protecting the long-term value of some of the region’s most significant residential assets. Listen if you’re: Interested in luxury real estate and second-home ownershipCurious about private equity and scaling service businessesNavigating luxury construction, maintenance, or property managementFocused on leadership, operations, and long-term growthConnect: Tony LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-frick-22a19765?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios David Nicholas Website: https://davidnicholasmaintenance.org/ BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    30 min
  2. Behind the Deal: Pierre Debbas on NYC Real Estate Law, Negotiation, and Risk Management

    MAY 7

    Behind the Deal: Pierre Debbas on NYC Real Estate Law, Negotiation, and Risk Management

    This episode of BUILT DIFFERENT sits at the intersection of law, policy, and real estate with Pierre Debbas, founder and partner of one of New York City’s leading real estate law firms. Pierre offers a perspective you don’t usually hear. He operates within the deals themselves, which comes through clearly in how he breaks down the New York market. Erin and Pierre get into the steps between an accepted offer and a signed contract, and why so many buyers misread that window. They also step into what’s shaping the market right now. Tax pressure, policy decisions, and post-pandemic behavior shifts are all changing how people approach New York. Pierre shares a candid view on the pied-à-terre conversation and what it signals about where the city is heading. There’s also a real look at co-ops versus condos, going beyond definitions to show what it’s like to live in each. They break down the approvals and scrutiny, along with the tradeoffs tied to access and pricing. This episode cuts through the noise to give you a clearer lens on how New York real estate decisions are made. Listen if you’re: Buying, selling, or investing in New York real estateMoving between markets like New York and FloridaTrying to understand how policy and taxes impact dealsNavigating co-ops, condos, or complex transactionsInterested in where New York is actually headingConnect: Pierre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pierredebbasesq/ Pierre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierredebbas/ Romer Debbas LLP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romerdebbas/ BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    40 min
  3. Rethinking the Gallery: Cayla Birk. on Bodega Birk, Curation, and Community

    APR 30

    Rethinking the Gallery: Cayla Birk. on Bodega Birk, Curation, and Community

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with Cayla Birk., contemporary fine artist and the creative mind behind a new kind of art experience that blends culture, commerce, and community. Cayla isn’t just creating art, she’s building worlds around it. From large-scale conceptual series to fully immersive environments like Hotel Birk and her latest project, Bodega Birk, she’s redefining how people experience art and who it’s actually for. This conversation goes deeper than the traditional art world narrative. Cayla breaks down how she built a business around her creativity, why she stepped away from relying on galleries, and how she’s positioning herself within a new wave of “red chip” artists who are building value in real time - not after the fact. She also gets into the strategy behind her brand. The details, the rollout, the partnerships, and how every touchpoint, from invitations to in-person experience, is intentional and designed to pull people in. There’s a clear throughline here about taking ownership and trusting your vision, even before the market catches up. If you’re thinking bigger about how creativity, business, and experience intersect, this one hits. Listen if you’re: Building a creative or personal brand and want to own the full visionInterested in how the art market is shifting in real timeExploring experiential marketing or immersive brand conceptsLooking at art as both a passion and portfolio strategyFiguring out how to scale something that starts as a creative ideaConnect: Cayla Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caylabirk Bodega Birk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodegabirk BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    29 min
  4. Regenerative Beauty: Jen Gowdy on Skin Health, Longevity, and the Next Wave of Aesthetics

    APR 23

    Regenerative Beauty: Jen Gowdy on Skin Health, Longevity, and the Next Wave of Aesthetics

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with Jennifer Gowdy, founder and CEO of Pure Skin Palm Beach, for a deep dive into what’s actually driving the shift in aesthetics, wellness, and longevity right now. Jen didn’t build her business chasing trends. She built it by seeing what was broken. After years in dermatology, oncology, and medical device sales, she developed a clear understanding of how the system operates - and where it falls short for patients. What started as a one-room operation has evolved into one of the leading regenerative aesthetics practices in South Florida, shaped by a more intentional approach to skin health and the aging process. In a conversation that goes far beyond skincare, Jen breaks down why the industry is moving away from quick fixes and into regenerative treatments, how hormones and peptides are changing the way we age, and why most people are treating symptoms instead of root causes. She also gets candid about what actually works vs. what’s overhyped, and where people waste the most money. At the core of it all is a philosophy grounded in education and transparency, where every decision is rooted in understanding the body first and building a personalized plan that supports real, long-term results. If you’ve ever wondered why some people age well and others don’t, this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. Listen if you’re: Trying to understand the difference between traditional med spa treatments and regenerative aestheticsCurious about peptides, hormones, and what “treating from the inside out” actually meansFrustrated with skincare or treatments that don’t deliver long-term resultsInterested in building a business rooted in trust, not transactionsLooking for a smarter, more strategic approach to aging and longevity Connect: Jen Gowdy: Jen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenngowdypalmbeach Pure Skin Palm Beach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pureskinpalmbeach BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    1h 4m
  5. Attachment in Business and Life: Jessica Baum on Relationships, Patterns, and Emotional Strategy

    APR 16

    Attachment in Business and Life: Jessica Baum on Relationships, Patterns, and Emotional Strategy

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with psychotherapist and bestselling author Jessica Baum for a conversation that connects relationships, business, and the patterns most people don’t realize are driving both. Jessica, author of Anxiously Attached and Safe, breaks down how attachment styles show up far beyond dating. The way you handle pressure, make decisions, navigate clients, and respond to money is often rooted in the same patterns developed early on. Because Erin has worked with Jessica personally, the conversation moves past theory and into real application. They talk through how these dynamics show up in negotiations, client relationships, and moments where emotions quietly influence outcomes. The discussion also shifts into what it actually takes to change those patterns. Not just awareness, but real work. Jessica explains why healing is not something you can do in isolation and why the right relationships play a critical role in that process. This episode gives you a clearer lens on your own behavior and challenges the idea that independence alone is the goal. Listen if you’re: Noticing patterns in your relationships or business decisions that you can’t quite explainSomeone who overthinks, people-pleases, or struggles to trustHighly independent but finds it hard to ask for help or let go of controlNavigating client relationships where emotions and money collideInterested in doing deeper work beyond surface-level self-helpCONNECT: Jessica’s Attachment Style Quiz: https://consciousrelationshipgroup.com/attachment-style-quiz Jessica’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicabaumlmhc BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    39 min
  6. Rethinking Ownership: Marnie Blanco on Fractional Real Estate, Luxury Access, and Scaling Pacaso

    APR 9

    Rethinking Ownership: Marnie Blanco on Fractional Real Estate, Luxury Access, and Scaling Pacaso

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with Marnie Blanco, SVP of Industry Relations at Pacaso, to unpack one of the most interesting shifts happening in luxury real estate right now: co-ownership. Pacaso is changing how second homes are bought and used by turning a single property into shared ownership among a small group of buyers. Instead of sitting vacant most of the year, these homes are actively used, professionally managed, and built around experience rather than traditional ownership. Marnie explains how the model actually works in practice. From how buyers purchase shares and schedule their time, to how resale works and why the structure avoids the common pitfalls people associate with timeshares. She also shares why keeping owners anonymous creates a cleaner, more seamless ownership experience that still feels personal. The conversation naturally expands into where the market is heading as Erin and Marnie dig into the impact of affordability and the inefficiency of underused luxury homes. They discuss the broader shift in how newer generations think about ownership, and how flexibility, global access, and experience are starting to outweigh the need to fully own a single property. They also touch on what this means for agents and investors, how these deals are structured, and why co-ownership is becoming a legitimate lane within luxury real estate rather than a niche concept. This episode is a sharp look at how ownership is evolving and why the future of real estate may look very different than what most people expect. If you are in real estate, investing, or rethinking how you approach lifestyle and assets, this is a conversation worth listening to. Listen if you’re: Curious about new models of real estate ownership beyond traditional buyingA luxury buyer considering a second home but questioning the commitmentAn agent looking for new ways to expand your business and client offeringsInterested in where generational wealth and lifestyle trends are headingThinking more about experiences, flexibility, and global access over full ownershipConnect: Marni Blanco LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnieblanco Picasso Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pacasohomes BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    35 min
  7. The Brooklyn Broker: Lou Belisario on Leading and Navigating an Evolving Market

    MAR 26

    The Brooklyn Broker: Lou Belisario on Leading and Navigating an Evolving Market

    In this episode of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin Sykes sits down with Lou Belisario, founder of Revived Residential, for a direct look at what is actually happening inside the Brooklyn real estate market. Lou is a third-generation Brooklyn broker with over two decades of experience, building his business on neighborhood expertise, relationships, and execution. He has witnessed Brooklyn evolve from overlooked borough to global brand, and breaks down what is driving that shift today. This conversation goes beyond surface-level market talk. Lou explains the migration patterns reshaping New York City, why Brooklyn still has room for growth, and how pricing, inventory, and buyer behavior are pushing opportunity deeper into the borough. Erin and Lou also dive into the operational side of real estate. From boutique brokerage strategy to recruiting and lead generation, Lou shares what it really takes to build a sustainable career in a highly competitive market. They also touch on bigger themes including affordability, career paths, and why community still matters more than amenities when people choose where to live. This episode is a clear, experience-backed look at how markets evolve, how people make decisions, and what it takes to stay relevant as everything shifts. If you are in real estate, investing, development, or watching where major cities are headed, this is a conversation worth listening to. Listen if you’re: In real estate and want a sharper strategy for growthTrying to understand where Brooklyn is headed nextA buyer or investor looking for long-term valueBuilding a business in a competitive marketRethinking career paths in today’s economyConnect: Guest: Lou Belisario Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loubel23?igsh=dXFtenNkMTlpeGJi Revived Residential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revivedresidential/ BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    44 min
  8. The Modern Aesthetic Practice: Dr. Kandace Kichler on Biohacking, Body Contouring, and Building Slim Inc.

    MAR 19

    The Modern Aesthetic Practice: Dr. Kandace Kichler on Biohacking, Body Contouring, and Building Slim Inc.

    In episode 10 of BUILT DIFFERENT, Erin sits down with Dr. Kandace Kichler - board-certified physician, cosmetic surgeon, and founder of Slim Inc., a modern aesthetic and wellness practice focused on a more modern approach to beauty, weight loss, and longevity. Known as The Slimming Surgeon, Dr. Kichler combines surgical expertise with cutting-edge treatments in body contouring, metabolic optimization, peptides, and regenerative medicine. She walks through everything from GLP-1 weight loss medications to minimally invasive skin tightening, explaining how the aesthetic industry is shifting toward treatments that work with the body rather than against it. The conversation also dives into the business side of medicine - why Dr. Kichler built a boutique storefront in West Palm Beach, how the environment shapes the patient experience, and why privacy, personalization, and trust have become essential in modern aesthetic care. Dr. Kichler’s journey - from farm girl to general surgeon to cosmetic innovator - is a masterclass in reinvention. Her philosophy is simple: transformation isn’t just physical. It’s personal. Listen if you’re: • Curious about the real science and strategy behind GLP-1 weight loss, peptides, and longevity medicine • Navigating body changes after weight loss, pregnancy, or menopause and exploring modern treatment options • Interested in aesthetic medicine that focuses on natural results and regenerative techniques • Building a wellness or medical business and thinking about the patient experience from a brand perspective • Someone who believes transformation - physically, professionally, or personally - is part of evolving at a high level CONNECT: Guest Dr. Kandace Kichler: Website: https://www.kandacekichlermd.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slimmingsurgeon?igsh=MTRocGQ2d2d5OW1oeQ== Slim, Inc. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slim___inc?igsh=MTdrbmVyZW52aHc4ag== BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida. Learn more: https://www.podplusstudios.com

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

BUILT DIFFERENT with Erin Sykes breaks down the structures that shape how we live, spend, and grow. From real estate and investing to the psychology of sales, shopping habits, and relationships, each episode explores the strategies and stories behind building a life of value. With a lens that’s both sophisticated and candid, Erin moves seamlessly between market insights, money mindset, and deeply personal conversations - because what we build isn’t just financial, it’s human. Listeners can expect thought-provoking conversations that bridge business and behavior, wealth and wellness, and strategy and soul. On BUILT DIFFERENT, you’ll learn how to: Navigate the ever-changing real estate and investment landscapeUnderstand the psychology behind spending, selling, and successShift your money mindset to align with your personal and professional goalsBuild resilience through challenges — in business, relationships, and lifeIntegrate emotional intelligence and practical strategy to create lasting valueFeatured guests include: Industry leaders and economists sharing market trends and wealth strategiesFounders, investors, and entrepreneurs redefining success on their own termsExperts in psychology, health, and relationships exploring the human side of growthReal people with powerful stories about building from the inside outBecause the truth is - what we build tells our story. And when you build differently, you live differently. TO CONNECT: BUILT DIFFERENT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built.different.pod Erin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sykesstyle Email: erin@sykesproperties.com BUILT DIFFERENT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@built_different_pod BUILT DIFFERENT Website: https://www.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT Community: https://connect.builtdifferentpod.com BUILT DIFFERENT is recorded at PodPlus Studios in Jupiter, Florida and produced by Hype Boss.

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