People Who Perform - The Real Estate Careers Podca

In this episode of The Real Estate Careers Podcast, host Richard Costello welcomes Tiffany Duzita, Vice President of Acquisitions and Development at RCG Group. Tiffany has spent her career working across a wide range of environments, giving her a broad perspective on how projects are shaped, financed, and delivered. From large public companies to private developers, non-profit housing organizations, and First Nation-led partnerships, she has gained exposure to various models, structures, and approaches along the way. Earlier this year, she joined RCG Group, where she now leads acquisitions and development across Western Canada and the U.S. Key topics include: Early inspiration and career foundations – What first drew Tiffany to real estate, the early experiences that shaped her understanding of successful development, and the lessons she shares with aspiring Development Managers entering the field. Building the Community Land Trust – An inside look at what makes the Community Land Trust model distinct, what it was like helping build the organization from the ground up, the accomplishments she’s most proud of, and the leadership skills required to succeed in mission-driven development. Balancing purpose and viability – How Tiffany approached the challenge of delivering financially sound projects while staying true to the organization’s social mandate — and what that taught her about decision-making, partnerships, and long-term impact. The transition to RCG Group – Why, after nearly 10 years in non-profit housing, Tiffany chose to return to the private sector, what appealed to her about RCG’s culture and Harold Goodwyn’s leadership, and how the company is positioning itself for growth across North America. Acquisitions and development under one roof – Tiffany shares how her dual role allows her to connect strategy with execution, why combining these disciplines strengthens project outcomes, and how her broad background shapes her perspective day-to-day. Building community — on and off the court – From non-profit housing to mixed-use development to her love of pickleball, Tiffany reflects on how community shows up in every part of her life and career — and why it remains the thread that ties her work together.

In this episode, host Richard Costello welcomes Jeff Kennedy, Chief Financial Officer at Troika Developments. Jeff has built a diverse career in real estate, starting in brokerage before moving into asset management and investments at Troika, where he became CFO in late 2024. Based in Kelowna, Jeff brings insight on leadership, finance, and growth in one of Canada’s most dynamic regional markets. Key topics include: Career journey and lessons – What drew Jeff to real estate, his career path, and the mentors and experiences that shaped him. Troika Developments and leadership – Insights on the company, working with founder Renée Merrifield, and stepping into the CFO role. Life in the Okanagan – Jeff’s perspective on living and working in Kelowna, market trends, and future opportunities. Looking ahead – Troika’s upcoming projects and Jeff’s vision for the next chapter in Kelowna real estate. *There are a few moments of lower sound quality, but don't let it stop you from listening to the end ;-)

 In this episode, host James Ashley welcomes Marlee Kohn, Vice President of ESG at Starlight Investments. Marlee has spent over 14 years at the intersection of real estate and sustainability, building a career focused on driving meaningful change in how the industry approaches environmental, social, and governance priorities. From her early work at Oxford Properties to her current leadership role at Starlight, she's tackled some of the sector's most pressing challenges—from climate action and energy efficiency to resident engagement and social impact. Recognized as a Clean50 Emerging Leader, Marlee brings both deep technical expertise and a genuine commitment to creating impact that matters. In this conversation, we explore what it takes to move ESG from buzzword to real action in the real estate sector, and what's standing in the way. Key topics include: Social impact and resident engagement – What meaningful community engagement actually looks like and where the industry is falling short. Net-zero commitments – The biggest opportunities and challenges in accelerating progress, from low-carbon retrofits to financing models. Resilience and future-proofing – How owners should be thinking about climate and market risks, and what lessons Canadian real estate can learn from other sectors. Bill C-59 and disclosure requirements – How new transparency rules are reshaping the conversation around greenwashing and what it means for smaller operators. Getting buy-in from the top – Strategies for building trust with investors and senior leaders to advance ESG initiatives. Marlee's career journey – What first drew her to sustainability in real estate, the defining moments that shaped her path, and the toughest challenges she's overcome. Advice for leaders and emerging talent – Where overwhelmed executives should start, how to balance short-term pressures with long-term goals, and what the next generation needs to know about making their mark. Tune in to hear Marlee's perspective on navigating the ESG landscape, building momentum for change, and what it takes to lead with purpose in an industry that's finally starting to take sustainability seriously.

In this episode, host Richard Costello welcomes John Brendan McEown, Chief Executive Officer of the Burnaby Housing Authority. John Brendan (JB) has been a leader in affordable housing for over a decade. As Associate Vice President of Development Strategies at BC Housing, he guided a team of professionals delivering thousands of homes across the province. With a Master of Urban Studies from Simon Fraser University and a track record of shaping housing policy and delivery, JB now steps into the inaugural CEO role at the Burnaby Housing Authority at a pivotal moment for housing in the region. Key topics include: Career influences and lessons – What inspired JB to pursue housing and how his time at BC Housing shaped his approach. The Burnaby Housing Authority’s vision – Why it was created, what makes it unique, and its goals for the next decade. Balancing perspectives – How JB’s public-sector background informs his leadership and the advantages it brings to a development-focused organization. Innovations in housing delivery – The potential role of modular construction, robotics, and new technologies in solving supply challenges. Leadership at a young age – Insights on stepping into executive leadership, building culture, and lessons learned so far. Looking ahead – What gives JB optimism in a time of cost pressures, permitting delays, and market uncertainty. Tune in to hear JB’s perspective on launching a new housing authority, the challenges and opportunities ahead, and what it takes to build sustainable, affordable communities in a rapidly evolving housing landscape

Todd Spencer joins Nicola Denning-Millar to share his journey from television to the world of residential property management. With extensive international experience in Europe and Asia, Todd has a unique perspective on the rental housing market in Canada. His career spans several years in property management, and his insights have shaped his approach to improving the industry, from tenant satisfaction to operational efficiency. Key topics in this episode include: Career transition – Todd's move from television to property management and what drives his passion today. Global perspective – How international experiences shaped Todd’s view of Canadian rental housing. Industry challenges – The impact of inflation, interest rates, and economic uncertainty on rent affordability and tenant turnover. Regulatory pressures – How rent control, eviction moratoriums, and zoning restrictions affect owners and property managers. Building rental supply – The difficulties developers face and the changes Todd wants to see from governments. Opportunities for transformation – Promising improvements for residents and property owners in the rental experience. PropTech – How technology can enhance the resident and employee experience. Workforce development – Changing perceptions of the residential property management sector and investing in long-term careers. Tune in to hear Todd’s insights on the future of rental housing and the role of property management in Canada.

Richard Costello welcomes Edward Chang, VP Investments and Real Estate at Silverbirch Hotels. Edward’s career spans over a decade of hotel investment, underwriting, and asset management across North America and Europe, with experience at firms like Goldman Sachs, SilverBirch Hotels & Resorts, Sonder, and American Hotel Income Properties REIT. He has played a key role in high-profile transactions, including a $1.2 billion portfolio sale, and brings a global perspective to hospitality strategy. Outside of work, Edward is also a classical musician with over 8 million Spotify streams. Key topics in this episode include: Hotels as an asset class – Why investors are drawn to the complexity and opportunity of hospitality real estate. Global insights – How Edward’s experience across North America and Europe shapes his approach. Investment and asset management – Lessons from high-stakes deals and large portfolios. Operational dynamics – How pricing, branding, and management models impact returns. Music and real estate – Parallels between curating guest experiences and composing music. Navigating market shifts – Where the hospitality sector is headed.  Tune in to hear Edward’s unique insights and advice.

In this episode, host Richard Costello welcomes Barrett Sprowson, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Peterson, to discuss how sales leaders can navigate challenging market cycles with data-driven strategies and leadership experience. Barrett has been at the forefront of real estate sales and marketing in Vancouver, with a track record of $2 billion in revenue and 3,500+ units sold. With experience spanning resort, luxury, and high-density urban developments, he brings a unique perspective on how market cycles shape sales strategies, pricing, and product development. Key topics include: Data-driven sales strategies – How analytics inform pricing, floor plans, and marketing. Adapting to challenging markets – Lessons learned from market downturns and recoveries. The power of pre-sales – Why they matter and how to succeed when sales slow. Leadership through uncertainty – Building and maintaining high-performing sales teams. Real estate market trends – What today’s shifts mean for buyers, developers, and sales teams. Experience across market cycles – How past challenges shape today’s best strategies. Tune in to hear Barrett’s expert insights on leading sales and marketing through market cycles with data and experience.

Richard Costello connects with Adam Mitchell. Adam is VP Asset Management and Development at Low Tide Properties responsible for the strategic direction and financial performance of a diverse portfolio of properties in emerging neighbourhoods in Vancouver and Seattle.  In this conversation, we’ll learn more about: What first drew Adam to studying real estate at UBC His early career days as an Analyst at Bentall and what it took to be successful in that environment The opportunity at Low Tide Background, evolution and purpose of Low Tide What’s involved in being VP Asset Management & Development as well as Adam’s favorite aspects of the role What’s special about the five neighborhoods in Vancouver that Low Tide operates in (Kitsilano, Gastown, Strathcona, Mt Pleasant, South Flatz). Shining a spotlight on local business and how this sets Low Tide apart Market trends and the demand for medical office space.  Unique requirements of these tenants. The benefits of being a member of ULI Advice for younger self Quick fire questions (favorite coffee shop, pub, restaurant - in the portfolio ;-)

Richard Costello connects with Jennica Palecek. An industry rising star, Jennica is a Commercial Real Estate Advisor at Colliers Vancouver, specializing in office leasing.  A graduate of the Beedie school of business, Jennica has a double major in business and economics and prior to starting her brokerage career, completed internships in finance and held roles in retail banking and property management.   With a passion for advancing diversity, Jennica is actively involved in Colliers North America Women’s Council and serves on the boards for the Canadian Mental Health Association and Big Brothers Big Sisters.      In this conversation, we’ll learn more about: What it means to be a commercial real estate broker The two main types of commercial leases The value that a broker can bring to a business How brokers are compensated Jennica’s pathway into brokerage and how Colliers sets new recruits up for success The benefits of working for a globally recognized business Building a personal brand  Pulse check on the current state of the office market in Vancouver Giving back to the community and volunteering as a board member.  What’s involved in this commitment and how might somebody go about doing something similar  

Richard Costello connects with Cindy MacMillan.   Cindy MacMillan is currently VP Investments at Grosvenor in Vancouver, responsible for leading the groups transit-oriented development sites delivering 3 million square feet of mixed-use multi-family rental & commercial property in Metro Vancouver. Cindy has close to two decades of commercial real estate experience with a strong background in finance, leasing and asset management. Passionate about advancing women in business, Cindy is Past President of CREW Vancouver and was recently awarded the prestigious Woman of Influence award, furthermore, Cindy has been appointed Crew Network President Elect for 2024.    In this conversation we’ll learn more about:  Cindy’s background, first job and why real estate? From corporate accounting to asset management – how Cindy’s career has evolved Cindy’s current role at Grosvenor Navigating market challenges from high costs to AI How being part of the CREW network has contributed to Cindy’s professional growth and development Cindy’s role as President Elect of the CREW network in 2024 and President in 2025.  What does this mean? How the network continues to evolve Benefits of effective mentorship for the mentee and the mentor Crucial skills that young professionals should focus on developing to succeed in today's competitive business environment How to approach failures or setbacks in your careers Cindy's passions outside of work

Richard Costello connects with David Basche. David Basche is the President of Astria Properties in Langley, BC and is focused on the strategic growth of the business and oversees the company’s day to day operations.  Prior to Astria, David spent a decade specializing in development and acquisitions for one of Vancouver’s leading real estate developers, Bosa Properties.  In this conversation today we’ll learn more about:  David’s background (including his move from Germany to Vancouver Island and his education in BC) How his career evolved at Bosa Properties How real estate became his passion Reflections on working in acquisitions in a hot market Motivations for starting a business and reflections on how this new chapter is going so far We’ll learn more about Astria and David’s thoughts on the market and opportunities ahead David’s advice for aspiring real estate (acquisitions) professionals How David spends his time and energy outside of the office

James Ashley connects with Jeff Ranson. With a focus on market transformation in the building industry, Jeff has worked for a number of leading organizations over the past 15 years. This includes the Canada Green Building Council, Building Owners and Managers Association of Toronto, and now Northcrest Developments. Jeff has also participated in a number of public advisory roles -  including the Waterfront design review panel and the City of Toronto climate advisory group. His career has included inter-governmental work, at the national to provincial to municipal level, and more recently on a hyper-local level leading sustainability and responsible development for one of the largest master planned communities in North America.  In this episode we discuss; The importance of carbon planning and net zero Utility innovation, placemaking and affordability Financial implications of ESG How sustainability has evolved How we go about setting and achieving net zero goals Characteristics of companies leading the way Whats next? And much more...

Nicola Denning-Millar connects with Heather Tremain. Heather Heather is a city builder with a passion for social purpose real estate and sustainable development. Since joining Options for Homes, Heather has been a champion of affordable homeownership and has helped achieve change to both public policy and funding in support of this segment of the housing spectrum. Prior to her role as CEO, she founded and led a strategic real estate and development consultancy to non-profits, and was the co-founder and CEO of a Vancouver-based green building consulting and development company.   Heather is active engaged in other housing activities including co-founding Circle Community LandTrust that now owns and manages over 600 units of rent geared to income homes across Toronto. She also is a board member of Nch’Kay Development Corporation, the economic development arm of the Squamish Nation. In this episode, we... Find out about Heathers journey into Real Estate development and what inspire the route into the non-profit sector Highlight the advantages and challenges of the non- profit world Look at the role that Architecture & Design plays in creating quality affordable housing and a sense of community and connectedness Discuss the increasing popularity and demand of proportional home ownership Share ideas on how to overcome the challenges of providing attainable housing Look at the positive impact of securing attainable housing on the emotional, physical and financial well being of homeowners See how affordable housing intersects with sustainability and environmental considerations Discover insights into the role of advocacy and policy work in advancing the goals of affordable housing developments

Richard Costello connects with Claudia Leung. Claudia is currently a Manager, Real Estate with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and has over 19 years of progressive experience in both institutional and entrepreneurial settings.  Her diverse background includes roles in property management, leasing, asset management and investments across a myriad of asset types from retail, office, hospitality and industrial, and senior’s housing.     In the first half of this episode we hear about Claudia’s career journey including: What life was like growing up, early influences What factors Claudia considered when making a change in her career The most important career risks Claudia has taken The path from manager to leader  Proudest career moment so far In the second half we learn more about life at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority including:  What lands/waters are covered by the Port Authority The importance of the ports in our daily lives Challenges facing the region due to a lack of industrial land What the real estate team looks like at the port Most enjoyable aspect of the job Why the port is a great place to work 

Richard Costello connects with Brandi Cooper Brandi is currently the Director, Property Management with Warrington Residential, responsible for overseeing a growing portfolio of purpose built rental buildings located throughout the Lower Mainland. Brandi has been immersed in residential property management for close to 15 years, starting out managing portfolios of individual units on behalf of investors, to managing apartment buildings for established developers through to her current role, leading operations for the third-party management company Warrington Residential which includes leasing and launching brand-new purpose-built rental projects.    In this conversation we hear about Brandi’s career journey, what’s happening at Warrington Residential, Brandi’s experience launching brand new purpose-built rental properties as well Brandi’s lessons and advice for aspiring residential property professionals. 

Richard Costello connects with Audrey Powell.    At the Real Estate Forum 2022, Audrey was awarded the Young Leader of the Year Award.   Audrey is currently a Leasing Manager for Aspen Properties in Edmonton, responsible for overseeing the leasing of three downtown office towers.  Audrey started her career in 2014 working as a tenant coordinator with one of the largest private retail landlords in Edmonton.  In 2016 Audrey moved into brokerage and for the next three years she became an integral part of one of the highest-producing, well-respected office leasing teams in Edmonton.   Audrey is actively involved with Edmonton CREW's Future Leaders Committee and her voice on the subject of DEI is incredibly powerful.   In this episode we discuss Audrey’s career journey to date.   The Young Leaders Award – what it means to Audrey. How Aspen Properties stands out from its competition. What a career in leasing looks like in the day to day. Most enjoyable and challenging aspects of the role. An overview of the Edmonton market. Benefits of getting involved with Edmonton CREW. Audrey’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Audrey’s lessons and advice for aspiring real estate professionals.     As mentioned in our discussion: Creating Career Pathways in Commercial Real Estate (CCPCRE) is a partnership between Oteenow Employment and Training, Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services Association - https://aref.ab.ca/projects/career-pathways-commercial-real-estate/

Nicola Denning-Millar connects with Cheryl Gray.  Cheryl's real estate career spans over 40 years and she has experience in management of all major asset classes, having worked for several leading RE firms in a senior leadership capacity.   Her focus over the past 15 years has been on ESG, prop tech, smart buildings, cyber security and pandemic response planning. She specializes in implementation strategies, operational organization and leading best practices.  In this episode, we discuss the hot topic of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, specifically: Why DEI is so important in the Commercial Real Estate industry The challenges and barriers that exist in implementing DEI practices in the industry Who is responsible for driving the change? Obstacles Cheryl has faced and overcome  The future of DEI in commercial real estate and what steps the industry can take to stay ahead of the curve What positive changes have occurred and what are the biggest areas of development The key priorities for industry decision makers to address when succession planning, to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion

James Ashley Connects with David Hoffman With over twenty years of progressive leadership within the industry, David has a wide and resourceful perspective on the many issues and opportunities facing property managers and owners.  During his career, David has managed two of the most prestigious business communities in downtown Toronto – CIBC Square  and the Toronto Dominion Centre. David also serves as the Chair for the BOMA Toronto Board of Directors.  In this episode, we discuss; -       Leading from the back -       Learning from our mistakes -       Fear of failure  -       What makes a top performer -       The power of intellectual humility  -       And so much more...

Richard Costello connects with Tracy McEvoy. Tracy is the Director, Maple Leaf Self Storage responsible for the development and management of 15 self-storage facilities comprising over 1.7 million square feet with over 17,000 tenants as well as a commercial office portfolio.  During Tracy’s career in the real estate industry spanning over three decades, she has managed operations and leasing for some of Canada’s leading institutional landlords and covered all asset classes in the process. In our conversation today we discuss the following: Finding community through running and managing energy to perform professionally.  Tracy’s career journey prior to her current role.   What’s involved in being the Director for Maple Leaf Self Storage. Self-storage facilities - what are they like and is there such a thing as a ‘typical’ customer? Common misconceptions around self-storage. How the industry and the properties have evolved over recent years. Why has self-storage become such a hot commodity for real estate investors. Trends and changes Tracy expects to see in the near future. Biggest challenges in running the business. Advice for anyone that’s in the industry and is looking to set themselves up for a successful career. The importance of working from the office for new professionals. Proudest accomplishments to date. Looking forward to the future. In our conversation we discuss the following article, provided here for reference. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/industry-news/property-report/article-investor-driven-demand-prompts-vancouver-to-restrict-further-self/

Dave is an innovative SVP Marketing and Sales professional who has worked on both the agency and the client side and prides himself on trying to do things differently. He has been involved in many award-winning campaigns and loves to develop business strategy and delve into the psychology of buying and selling Real Estate.  He’s a self-proclaimed “Nerd” -  is huge into tech, loves to problem solve, leads by empowering his team.  In this episode, we cover a variety of topics including; ·      The Digital and Ecomm impact on the RE Landscape in Canada ·      How lifestyle and buyers’ habits impact how Developers design their products ·      Interest rate hikes and upcoming predictions for 2023 ·      Best times to purchase a home ·      Real Estate Marketing trends and their impact on home-buyer decisions ·      Location! Location! Location! How to make a remote area an attractive ‘destination’ ·      How best to connect to buyers throughout their purchasing journey to deliver a consistent customer service ·      Successful launches and the importance of the four “P’s” ·      Empowering your staff by given them the “Why?!” ·      Advice and perks for anyone embarking on a career in RE S&M