On the Mark

Howard M. Rubin

5.0 (3)
BUSINESS
UPDATED BIMONTHLY

On the Mark is a podcast series that explores the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on various businesses and how companies can survive, thrive, and sometimes experience even greater success. Hosted by Howard M. Rubin, Esq., Senior Partner at Goetz Fitzpatrick LLP and sponsored by The Strategic Forum.

12/19/2025

New Opportunities for Construction Contractors with Wissam Akra

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 31 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Wissam Akra, CEO & Founder of Tough Leaf, a mission-driven platform to connect general contractors and developers with qualified Small Business Enterprises owned by minorities, women, veterans, and other disadvantaged groups. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * How technology is transforming the traditionally slow-to-adapt construction industry, and the role Tough Leaf plays in this change * The biggest challenges contractors face when trying to meet minority and women-owned business participation requirements * How Tough Leaf’s unique matching process ensures both contractors and small businesses find the right fit for their projects * How shifting political and certification landscapes are impacting opportunities for minority-owned businesses * How artificial intelligence is already reshaping the way companies like Tough Leaf operate and support their clients Learn more about Wissam Akra: * Visit Tough Leaf’s website: http://toughleaf.com * Connect with Wissam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwakra *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

44 min
12/09/2025

Revitalizing Properties in NYC with VRF Technology with Howard Schlesinger

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 30 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Howard Schlesinger of VRF Solutions, LLC. Howard is a registered architect and real estate developer in NYC with extensive experience in property development and renovation. His expertise includes state-of-the-art renovations, building upgrades, and the redevelopment of underutilized properties for both commercial and residential use. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * VRF — what it is and how it functions * The capabilities of VRF systems in enhancing building management systems, optimizing energy usage and also contributing significantly to sustainability efforts * How VRF technology provides a tailored and efficient climate control solution In both residential and commercial settings * The future potential applications for VRF systems to transform spaces, save energy, and improve comfort Learn more about Howard Schlesinger: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-schlesinger-aia-25b296b * Visit VRF Solutions’ website: https://vrfsolutionsllc.com *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

46 min
10/02/2025

Navigating the Waves of Change Inside the Commercial Lending Industry with Bob Grbic

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 29 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Bob Grbic, Founder and CEO of Bearbrook Corporate Advisors LLC. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The roles emerging technologies and pandemic-induced changes are playing in the commercial lending industry * The significance of our physical presence at work in fostering innovation, collaboration, and company culture * The importance of clear roles and the strategic implementation of leverage recaps to resolve conflicts and ensure smooth transitions within family-led entities * Tariffs, global supply chain considerations, and the increasing role of European markets in shaping the future of commercial lending * The crucial nature of adaptability in navigating the complexities of today's business environments * The importance of maintaining a balance between leveraging technology and preserving the human touch, developing a culture that supports growth, collaboration, and innovation * The multifaceted challenges and opportunities confronting the commercial lending industry Learn more about Bob Grbic: * Connect with Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-grbic-b523452a *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

43 min
09/12/2025

Grow Your impact, Influence, & Income Through Purposeful Publishing with Melanie Herschorn

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 27 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Melanie Herschorn, an independent publisher, book marketer, and bestselling author. Melanie works with attorneys, wealth experts, and business owners, helping them with book marketing and promotion. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * Melanie’s philosophy on books — they are not just about sharing stories, but about building authority and visibility * Where Melanie draws the line with who she will and will not work with, and the importance of maintaining neutrality and professionalism regardless of personal beliefs * Melanie's approach to book writing, which is grounded in collaboration * Melanie’s beliefs around AI and its potential hold on the publishing process * The crucial role strategic marketing maneuvers play in getting a book the recognition it deserves * Insights into the evolving landscape of book writing Learn more about Melanie Herschorn: * Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-herschorn * Visit Your Big Impact Book’s website: https://yourbigimpactbook.com * Get your Melanie’s free Ultimate Book Marketing Checklist: https://yourbigimpactbook.com/checklist * Check out Melanie’s recent book, “Make a Big Impact with Your Book: Author Marketing Strategies for Long-Term Success” https://yourbigimpactbook.com/big-impact-book * Follow Big Impact Books on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigimpactbooks * Follow Big Impact Books on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigimpactbooks * Visit Big Impact Books on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigimpactbooks * Follow Big Impact Books on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/bigimpactbooks *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

42 min
08/12/2025

From Bankruptcy to Business Turnaround with Cliff Katz

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 26 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Cliff Katz, an equity partner and chair of the bankruptcy and insolvency practice at Goetz Platzer, LLP. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The key differences between Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 bankruptcies * How executory contracts and leases impact a company's ability to restructure during bankruptcy * The main players involved in a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and how their services are typically paid for * What debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing is and why lenders provide funding to companies in bankruptcy * How bankruptcy trends and the perception of bankruptcy have evolved in the business and legal communities over time Learn more about Cliff Katz: * View Cliff’s profile on Goetz Platzer’s website: https://goetzplatzer.com/attorneys/cliff-katz/ * Connect with Cliff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliff-katz-3871813b * Email: ckatz@goetzplatzer.com *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

47 min
08/04/2025

The Evolution & Impact of Virtual Services with Jennifer Schmittler

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 25 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Jennifer Schmittler, CEO of Customer Service Experts and One Voice Solutions. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * How virtual receptionist and service businesses evolved to meet the needs of companies during and after the COVID era * The ways One Voice Solutions tailors its offerings to different industries, such as healthcare, law, and small businesses * How training, quality assurance, and technology, especially AI, are used to ensure high standards and seamless customer experiences * The challenges and benefits of using domestic, nearshore, and offshore agents * How the integration of lead generation, data management, and omnichannel communication expands the value and growth potential of virtual service providers Learn more about Jennifer Schmittler: * Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferschmittler * Visit Customer Service Experts’ website: http://CSEconnect.com * Visit One Voice Solutions’ website: https://onevoicesolutions.com *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

44 min
07/28/2025

Creating Jewish Love Stories with Rachel Brown

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 24 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Rachel Brown, founder of Jewish Matchmaking NY. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The main goals and mission behind Rachel Brown's Jewish matchmaking service, particularly in terms of reducing assimilation and increasing the Jewish population * How Rachel’s service differentiates itself from online dating platforms like JDate * The specific roles and responsibilities Rachel believes men should take in a relationship, according to traditional and spiritual perspectives * How Rachel ensures the quality and compatibility of matches through background checks and personal interviews with all potential clients * Key challenges and considerations Rachel faces in her matchmaking business, including client expectations, physical attributes, and religious practices Learn more about Rachel Brown: * Visit Jewish Matchmaking NY’s website: ⁠https://jewishmatchmakingny.com⁠ * Follow Jewish Matchmaking NY on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575238625152⁠ * Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jewishmatchmakingny⁠ *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer⁠ * Website: ⁠https://goetzplatzer.com⁠ * SoundCloud: ⁠https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6⁠ Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf⁠ * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: ⁠hrubin@goetzplatzer.com⁠

45 min
07/21/2025

Banking on Relationships: A Conversation with Jehan ‘Gigi’ Shehab

On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin, Episode 23 In this episode of On The Mark, Howard Mark Rubin speaks with Jehan Shehab, Director of Commercial Banking and Senior Vice President at 42 North Private Bank. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The challenges and opportunities of introducing a Boston-based private bank to the New York market * The differences between a private bank and a commercial bank, and how 42 North Private Bank provides personalized service that sets it apart from larger institutions * Strategies Jehan uses for business development and building strong client relationships, emphasizing the Go-Giver philosophy and the importance of personal touch in banking * How technology is transforming the banking industry and the role it plays in the operations and client servicing of 42 North Private Bank * Jehan’s views on work-life balance and how she manages to maintain effective boundaries between her professional responsibilities and personal life Learn more about Jehan Shehab: * Connect with Jehan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jehan-gigi-shehab-73319222/ *********************************** On The Mark with Howard Mark Rubin: This podcast series addresses our rapidly changing world and how it is affecting industries and people in unique and interesting ways. As John F. Kennedy once said, change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. The business leaders and personalities who are interviewed in these podcasts all look to the future. We hope our listeners and viewers come away with information and inspiration that help them adapt in both their business and personal lives. Watch more episodes of On The Mark: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goetzplatzer * Website: https://goetzplatzer.com * SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6tkWs6vb8kHev7um6 Connect and learn more from your host, Howard Mark Rubin: * Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardrubingf * Call: 212-695-7753 * Email: hrubin@goetzplatzer.com

41 min

5

out of 5

3 Ratings

On the Mark is a podcast series that explores the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on various businesses and how companies can survive, thrive, and sometimes experience even greater success. Hosted by Howard M. Rubin, Esq., Senior Partner at Goetz Fitzpatrick LLP and sponsored by The Strategic Forum.

Creator

Howard M. Rubin
Years Active

2021 - 2025
Episodes

46
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© All rights reserved
Show Website

On the Mark