The CRE Connection · Samy Soussan

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May 2026

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Welcome to the Commercial Real Estate Connection Podcast: Building Relationships for Commercial Success', the place where we connect with the brightest minds in commercial real estate, uncovering their secrets, strategies, and captivating stories. We are dedicated to helping beginners learn from experts in the commercial real estate industry. Join us as each episode, we sit down with successful investors, brokers, developers, and other key players in the commercial real estate world to discuss their experiences, strategies, and secrets to success. Our goal is to provide you with valuable insights and perspectives to help you navigate the complex world of commercial real estate and build strong relationships that lead to commercial success. So, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, join us as we connect you to the industry and share expert insights for aspiring professionals.

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12 recent

May 14, 2026Episode 1246 min

Ep. 12 - Beyond the Numbers, What Lenders Really Look For with Shaya Sonnenschein

In this episode of the CRE Connection Podcast, Samy sits down with Shaya Sonnenschein, President at AANDAR Capital Advisory, for a deep conversation on commercial real estate finance, capital advisory, relationships, technology, and the future of the industry.Shaya shares his unexpected path into real estate, starting from a creative background in design, marketing, and publishing before being pulled into the world of underwriting and capital markets. He explains why great capital advisory is not just about finding a lender, but about understanding the full story behind every sponsor, property, and investment strategy.The conversation covers what separates sophisticated borrowers from average ones, why lenders care about consistency and details, how AI and automation are changing commercial real estate, and why relationships and transparency remain the foundation of long-term success.Shaya also shares his involvement in the Refinance Summit and ReDeal event, his perspective on failure, and the career advice he would give to anyone entering commercial real estate finance today.Key Topics Covered Shaya’s background in marketing, design, and publishing How he transitioned into commercial real estate finance Why capital advisory requires creativity, not just math The difference between true advisory and basic debt brokerage What sophisticated borrowers do differently Why lenders care about details, consistency, and presentation The role of AI, automation, and custom workflows in CRE Why real estate has been slow to adopt technology How relationships influence financing outcomes Why transparency builds long-term trust The importance of asking questions without ego The Refinance Summit and ReDeal event Why fear of failure separates long-term players from short-term operators▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Jason, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ssonnenschein/▶ Website: https://www.aandar.com/about ▶ ReDeal Summit: https://redealsummit.com/If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/

April 15, 2026Episode 111 hr 3 min

Ep. 11 - Rythms of Real Estate: Connecting Through Creativity with Justin Levine

What does a college radio DJ, a Blackstone investment banker, and a retail real estate developer have in common? In this case — they're all the same person.In this episode, we sit down with Justin Levine, founder of JAL Strategic Holdings, to unpack one of the more unconventional paths we've seen in CRE. Justin shares how a lifelong obsession with music — from vinyl crates in high school to DJ sets in New York — quietly wired his brain for the two skills that matter most in real estate: active listening and pattern recognition.💡 What you'll hear in this episode:Why a spreadsheet can only take you so far — and what you miss when you never leave the officeThe mindset shift that happens when it's your capital on the lineWhy necessity-based retail is more resilient than the headlines want you to believeThe Adam Grant framework Justin lives by — and how it's shaped every deal and relationship he's builtWhat the JAL Meditations are and why he's building something far bigger than a newsletterJustin's story is a reminder that the most interesting investors aren't just chasing deals — they're chasing a life worth living, and letting the deals follow.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Jason, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinadamlevine/▶ Website: https://www.jalstrategies.com/If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/----------------------------------- #CREConnection #CommercialRealEstate #RetailRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #CREPodcast #HoustonRealEstate #RealEstateDevelopment #CREInvestor #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateMindset #PatternRecognition #JALStrategicHoldings #StripCenters #NecessityRetail #CreativityInBusiness #ActiveListening #RealEstateRelationships

September 18, 2025Episode 1041 min

Ep. 10 - From NFL to Real Estate: Logan Freeman's Journey of Resilience and Strategic Growth

In this episode of the Commercial Real Estate Connection Podcast, we sit down with Logan Freeman, former NFL athlete turned powerhouse broker, developer, and entrepreneur. Logan shares his remarkable transformation - from navigating a tough childhood and the demands of professional sports to becoming a respected leader in the commercial real estate space.💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:How Logan’s early struggles and football background shaped his mindset for successThe pivotal moment that led him from a W-2 sales job to full-time real estate entrepreneurshipWhy getting fired was the best thing that ever happened to him - and how he turned that setback into a breakthroughThe role of faith, family, fitness, and future in building a balanced and fulfilling lifeInsightful perspectives on AI’s impact on marketing and property managementWhy living intentionally and surrounding yourself with meaningful relationships is key to long-term growthWe also dive into the strategic thinking behind real estate investments, innovative marketing tactics, and how Logan embraces change to stay ahead of the curve.Whether you're new to the world of commercial real estate or a seasoned investor, Logan's story is sure to inspire and empower you to push past fear, make bold decisions, and live with purpose.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with top leaders in commercial real estate.🔗 Follow Logan Freeman on LinkedInCheck out his website: https://ftwinvestmentsllc.com/logan-freeman/ 📞 Book a call with us | 💬 Have a question? Reach out on LinkedIn

April 2, 2025Episode 938 min

Ep. 9 - Dance of Deals: Andy Weiner's Real Estate Revolution at Rockstep Capital

Rockstep Capital's Andy Weiner shares his transformative journey from the retail world to spearheading a successful real estate investment company. Raised in the bustling environment of Weiner's Stores in Houston, Andy's early days in his family's clothing business equipped him with a deep understanding of retail markets. He recounts his strategic pivot to real estate, where he initially focused on Walmart-anchored centers and later embraced opportunities in secondary and tertiary markets with Tractor Supply stores. Andy provides keen insights into the significance of local investors in mitigating acquisition risks, especially in mall spaces burdened with insolvent debt.The conversation takes a dynamic turn as we explore the unique company culture at Rockstep Capital, inspired by the agility and adaptability akin to a "rock step" in dance. The evolution of the company’s investment strategy from deal-by-deal to the formation of the $50 million Hometown America fund is highlighted, offering local investors co-investment opportunities and targeting an impressive 18-plus IRR. Andy unveils the company’s ethos, guided by 25 "rock steps," each fostering a culture of accountability and emphasizing values such as integrity, punctuality, and family prioritization to fuel both personal and professional growth.As the episode unfolds, Andy shares his philosophy on living life with fervor and compassion. He reflects on the power of maintaining a driven mindset, underscored by genuine kindness in daily interactions. The importance of building strong relationships in real estate is highlighted, alongside his thoughts on the comparative advantages of retail real estate amid shifting market dynamics. Throughout, Andy’s compelling narrative offers invaluable life and business lessons, leaving listeners with a profound understanding of the synergy between intense passion and benevolence in achieving success.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Andy and Rockstep Capital, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-weiner/▶ Website: https://rockstep.com/Check out the Rocksteps at: https://rockstep.com/company/rockstep-wayIf you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out our Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate, #BethAzor, #CanvassingQueen, #RetailDevelopment, #TenantMix, #Franchising, #RetailTrends, #MedicalServices, #CreativeProblem-Solving, #BuildingRelationships, #EmpoweringConfidence, #RealEstateInvestments, #StrategicTenantDecisions, #RetailLeasing, #RetailLandscape, #RetailProperty, #RetailCenters, #RealEstateCareer, #FinancialConstraints, #RetailSpaces

January 22, 2025Episode 856 min

Ep. 8 - Leased and Loaded: Mastering Retail Leasing with Beth Azor, The Canvassing Queen

Join us as we sit with Beth Azor, widely known in the commercial real estate world as "The Canvassing Queen." Beth shares her incredible journey from growing up in a real estate family in Wisconsin to becoming a leading expert in retail leasing and property ownership in Florida.Beth reveals how her passion for connecting with people and helping businesses grow led her to transition from residential real estate to commercial leasing, where she thrived for 18 years, eventually becoming the president of a major CRE firm. She discusses pivotal moments in her career, including her first deal, creative problem-solving in leasing, and the evolution of her personal real estate portfolio.Listeners will gain valuable insights into:The power of canvassing and building tenant relationships.The shifting trends in retail, including the rise of food & beverage and medtail tenants.Tips on managing tenant mix and turning pop-ups into long-term leases.The importance of creativity and persistence in problem-solving and deal-making.Beth also shares practical advice on building meaningful industry relationships and creating niche-focused networking opportunities. With engaging anecdotes and actionable tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the art and science of retail leasing and commercial real estate.Key Takeaways:Why tenant sales reporting is crucial for property success.The difference between impulse and destination tenants – and how to cater to both.How Beth turned a nickname meant as ridicule into her empowering brand, "The Canvassing Queen."Tune in to learn from Beth's 36+ years of experience and her relentless drive to elevate retail real estate to new heights!▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Beth, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethazor▶ Website: https://www.bethazor.com/If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out our Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate, #BethAzor, #CanvassingQueen, #RetailDevelopment, #TenantMix, #Franchising, #RetailTrends, #MedicalServices, #CreativeProblem-Solving, #BuildingRelationships, #EmpoweringConfidence, #RealEstateInvestments, #StrategicTenantDecisions, #RetailLeasing, #RetailLandscape, #RetailProperty, #RetailCenters, #RealEstateCareer, #FinancialConstraints, #RetailSpaces

October 28, 2024Episode 738 min

Ep. 7 - The LP's Playbook: Strategic Investing with Aleksey Chernobelskiy

💼 The LP’s Playbook: Strategic Investing with Aleksey Chernobelskiy 💼Curious how to become a smarter, more strategic real estate investor? 🎧In our latest episode of the Commercial Real Estate Connection Podcast, we feature Aleksey Chernobelskiy, an entrepreneur and LP advisor who shares weekly insights to help Limited Partners level up their investment game. Prior to founding his own business, Aleksey ran STORE Capital’s $10 billion commercial real estate portfolio and led the firm’s underwriting team.With a quadruple major in Finance, Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting from the University of Arizona, Aleksey now advises LPs on managing existing investments and assessing new opportunities.In this episode, you’ll learn:Key Investment Strategies for LPsAleksey dives into the essentials of investment diligence, covering metrics like IRR and cap rate compression. Discover how to balance risk and reward in volatile markets and avoid common pitfalls in syndications.Networking and MentorshipAleksey highlights the pivotal role of mentorship and relationship-building in his career, sharing actionable advice for LPs on overcoming the fear of connecting with industry leaders.Balancing Professional and Personal GrowthGet insights into Aleksey’s unique approach to work-life balance, including routines like Torah study and bouldering, and how his personal life fuels his professional success.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Aleksey, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chernobelskiy/▶ Website: https://www.lplessons.co/If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate #CREPodcas #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyInsight #CREInsiders #tenantrep #CREIndustry #RealEstateExperts #CREconnections

August 27, 2024Episode 640 min

Ep. 6 - Unanchored Retail and UPREITS: The Hidden Gems of Commercial Real Estate with Garrett Lepow

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of commercial real estate with our special guest, Garrett Lepow, a key player in acquisitions and investor relations at KM Realty. In this episode, Garrett shares his early passion for real estate, sparked in middle school and solidified by a high school internship with a Houston syndicator. Discover how KM Realty focuses on the niche market of unanchored retail strip centers in Texas and Arizona and their strategic plan to consolidate these assets into a real estate investment trust (REIT). Garrett breaks down the concept of an upREIT, explaining its benefits over traditional investment options and the potential for significant value creation in this specialized market.We also take a closer look at the 721 exchange and its benefits for estate planning, particularly for shopping center owners whose heirs may not wish to manage such properties. Garrett provides a comprehensive overview of the process, from converting property into shares to working with CPAs and attorneys to ensure compliance. This approach not only offers a step-up in basis for heirs but also transforms their inheritance into a truly passive investment, eliminating the complexities of property management.Lastly, we discuss the current landscape of cap rates amid rising interest rates and the resulting credit crunch, emphasizing the stability and flexibility of investing in free and clear properties. Learn about the potential growth of KM Realty's unanchored retail niche and the strategic benefits of presenting a large, cash-flowing vehicle to public or institutional buyers. Garrett also shares valuable insights on building genuine relationships in the commercial real estate industry, drawing from Dale Carnegie's principles and his own personal experiences.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Garrett, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-lepow-b37863b7/▶ Website: https://kmrealty.net/If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate #CREPodcas #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyInsight #CREInsiders #tenantrep #CREIndustry #RealEstateExperts #CREconnections

May 14, 2024Episode 544 min

Ep. 5 - The Art of Marketing in The Commercial Real Estate Arena with Shannon Bedinger and Ashlyn Wooten

Today, we're exploring the fascinating crossroads of marketing and commercial real estate with the insight of Shannon Bedinger and Ashlyn Wooten, both at the helm of their own marketing firms. As we navigate their stories, you'll hear about Shannon's leap from architecture to marketing and her ascent to the role of Chief Marketing Officer at Midway, along with Ashlyn's evolution from real estate agent to a maestro of marketing across various domains. They each shed light on the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship and the invaluable perspectives they contribute to the industry from their diverse experiences.Listen in as we tackle the nuts and bolts of commercial real estate marketing strategies and expertise. You'll gain a glimpse into how they collaborate on entering new markets, developing national media plans, and refining business tactics, especially amidst the industry's pivot to digital marketing. We delve into the critical role of data and analytics, tailoring strategies to client needs for leasing and sales, and discuss the unique value they provide as problem solvers, emphasizing the extensive understanding required for the market's marketing demands.Finally, our conversation celebrates the power of relationship-driven strategies and the imperative to grasp different market areas, from urban cores to expanding suburbs. Also, you'll discover the intricate pressures of marketing within real estate development, the import of targeted campaigns, and the extensive work that goes into crafting effective marketing initiatives. Stay tuned for an episode brimming with insights and strategies that illuminate the dynamic and multifaceted world of real estate marketing.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Ashlyn and Shannon, check out the following links:▶ Ashlyn Wooten - LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlyn-wooten/ | Website: https://www.createjabbr.com/ ▶ Shannon Bedinger - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-bedinger/ | Website: https://www.7rvrs.com/ If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate #CREPodcas #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyInsight #CREInsiders #tenantrep #CREIndustry #RealEstateExperts #CREconnections #CREmarketing #CMO

March 19, 2024Episode 429 min

Ep. 4 - From Wall Street Dreams to Real Estate Titan with Bob Knakal

Step into the world of commercial real estate mastery as we welcome Bob Knakal, a visionary whose journey from a sports-loving New Jersey kid to a real estate behemoth is a playbook of ambition and strategy. Bob's candid discussions about his ascent within the industry, which includes pioneering success at Massey Knakal with an astounding $23 billion in sales, are more than just numbers—they're a testament to the power of competitive spirit and hard work. Every anecdote he shares is a brick in the foundation of a career built on a love for the game, whether it's on the field or in the fast-paced realm of property deals.Ever wondered what it takes to elevate a business from the ground up? Bob peels back the curtain on the art of expansion, highlighting the importance of seeking not just 'how' but 'who' can drive your business forward. Bob underscores the transformative influence of technology and mentorship in the real estate domain. He doesn’t shy away from discussing past missteps, showing us the value of thorough due diligence and the strategic advantage of an advisory board peppered with industry experts. Bob also lets us in on the unexpected joys and business perks of engaging with social media, proving that even industry titans can find new tools to sharpen their edge.The blueprint for success in commercial real estate isn't complete without a solid foundation in relationship building. Bob conveys the importance of a well-tended network, sharing tactics for fostering connections that go beyond transactions to become invaluable professional assets. His advice, persistence, attention to the fundamentals, and always aligning with the client's best interest are principles that resonate as deeply as family values in the relentless rhythm of real estate. Join us for an episode that's as informative as it is inspirational, where gratitude and the pursuit of growth go hand in hand.-----------▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Bob, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobknakal/ ▶ X: @bobknakal ▶ Instagram: @bobknakalnyc ▶ Website: linktr.ee/bobknakalnyc If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate #CREPodcas #RealEstateInvestin #PropertyInsight #CREInsiders #entrepreneurship #investment #mentorship #successsecrets #CREIndustry #RealEstateExperts #CREconnections

November 1, 2023Episode 346 min

Ep. 3 - Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Path in Real Estate with Ola Dantis

In our latest episode, we take a fascinating journey with Ola Dantis, who made a courageous leap from a corporate analyst to a successful real estate entrepreneur. Ola shares his story, the highs and lows of navigating the world of entrepreneurship, and the invaluable role mentorship played in his journey.From Nigeria and England to the US, from corporate comfort to the dynamic world of commercial real estate, Ola's journey is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships, finding the right mentor, and the pursuit of freedom in entrepreneurship.Join us as we delve into the nitty-gritty of deal sourcing, cash flow management, attracting equity investors, and much more. More importantly, we discuss wealth – it's not just about the numbers, but the freedom to live life on your terms.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established investor, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and success secrets that will inspire you and equip you with valuable lessons.▶️ If you're interested in learning more about Ola, check out the following links:▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dwellynn/▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oladantis/ ▶ Website: https://www.dwellynn.com/ If you like the video, please SUBSCRIBE and don't forget to press the bell 🔔, 👍like, comment and share.-----------------------------------▶️ Check out my Website: https://creconnection.transistor.fm/----------------------------------▶️ For business inquiries: creconnectionpod@gmail.com----------------------------------▶️ Follow me on:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_souss/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-soussan/-----------------------------------#CommercialRealEstate #CREPodcas #RealEstateInvestin #PropertyInsight #CREInsiders #entrepreneurship #investment #mentorship #successsecrets #CREIndustry #RealEstateExperts #CREconnections