Shows
Closed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastCommercial Broker Coaching (with Rod Santomassimo)On this episode of Closed! we were delighted to have the premier business coach in the country, Rod Santomassimo! Lee and Mike spoke with Rod about his specialty — commercial real estate brokers. Rod broke down how he got into coaching, why he chose brokers are his target client, and how he grew his brand into the juggernaut it is today. There may also be a few free tidbits of advice sprinkled in the episode.If you are a commercial broker or are interested in the inner-workings of commercial real estate, then don't miss out!...
2026-01-2132 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastOneLIC (with Council Member Julie Won)On this episode of Closed! Lee is joined by Council Member Julie Won to talk about OneLIC and her win in the months-long battle over Long Island City Rezoning. Council Member Won explains the plan for Long Island City and why previous iterations failed. The Council Member explain that OneLIC is the largest increase of affordable housing units ever produced by a rezoning, with 14,700 new housing units, including approximately 4,350 affordable units in Long Island City.If you are a resident of Long Island City or are keeping up with the housing crisis New York is facing...
2025-12-1735 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastMamdani, Charter Reforms & NYC Real Estate with Greg DavidOn this episode, Lee is joined by Greg David, an accomplished journalist for The City magazine to talk about the implications of a potential rent freeze, charter reforms, and more. Before becoming a journalist, Greg spent 35 years as an editor, editorial director, and columnist at Crain’s New York Business. He is also the director of the business and economics reporting program at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY as well as the Ravitch Fiscal Reporting Program. For more from Greg David, you can find him at https://www.thecity.nyc/author/greg-david/.
2025-11-2531 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastThe Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel with Martin FlahertyOn this episode of Pop! Goes The Legal, we are joined by Martin Flaherty, Professor of Law at Fordham Law School, Adjunct Professor of Law at Columbia Law School and Visiting Professor at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. Lee and Martin break down what happened with the suspension (and eventual reinstatement) of Jimmy Kimmel. Martin helps us understand the legality of such a move, on the part of the Trump Administration, FCC, ABC, Disney and the affiliates Sinclair and Nexstar. Martin also helps bus frame how the second amendment fits into this whole conversation.
2025-09-3031 min
Objection! You're FictionThe Bear with Jasmine MoyOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Lee is joined by NYC restaurant lawyer Jasmine Moy to talk about FX and Hulu's hit tv show The Bear. Like Lee, Jasmine is a massive fan of the series, and Jasmine's experience in restaurants makes her uniquely able to discuss how The Bear and all the legalities around a restaurant like The Beef/The Bear. Lee and Jasmine discuss the partnership agreement offered to Sydney and how it would actually work when opening a restaurant, as well as the legal risks of Camry taking over the business from...
2025-09-1632 minObjection! You're FictionOnly Murders In The Building with Teddy ColucaOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Lee and Raquel sat down with Teddy Coluca, who plays Lester the Doorman in the hit Hulu show Only Murders In The Building. Teddy talked about how he got the role of Lester, how Lester interacted with the main Only Murders crew and how next season will shake out for Teddy. Teddy even teased a few exciting tidbits for season 5! We also discussed some fun stories from Teddy's acting career, "No one has played more New York cabbies than me." If you're an Only Murders In The Building fan...
2025-08-2538 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastCoStar v. Zillow with Rebecca TushnetThis week, we are joined by Rebecca Tushnet, Faculty Co-Director and Professor of the First Amendment at Harvard Law School, to discuss one of the biggest cases in real estate — CoStar Group v. Zillow. CoStar is alleging that Zillow used nearly 47,000 of CoStar's copyrighted real estate images without license, so we asked Rebecca to help us break down the facts of the case, given her immense experience in Intellectual Property. Lee, Mike and Rebecca discusses the strength of CoStar's case as well as the strategies each party might use.If you are are in the real es...
2025-08-1825 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastThe Analytics of the FARE Act with John WalkupOn this episode of Closed!, we take an analytical look at how the first days of the FARE Act are going, and how the New York City rental market has adjusted to the new law. To help us examine the early effects, Lee is joined by the Co-Founder of UrbanDigs, John Walkup! John goes through the data he is seeing(or not seeing, in some cases) in New York City apartment listings following the transferral of broker fees to the hirer under the FARE act. If you've been following the FARE act, this is your chance...
2025-07-3020 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastDesigning Offices For The Future with Amanda CarrollOn this week's episode of Closed! Mike is joined by the Managing Director of Gensler, Amanda Carroll. Amanda has led the charge in designing some of the most innovative and human-centric designs in New York City commercial real estate, from Google's new Hudson Square headquarters to Etsy's Brooklyn office. Amanda shares how she and her team captures a company's wants and culture in their design while also taking into account how individuals will interact with these spaces. If you are interested in where office design is headed, you won't find a better source...
2025-07-1635 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastOffice To Residential Conversions with Brian SteinwurtzelIn this episode of Closed!, Lee Bergstein sits down with Brian Steinwurtzel, co-CEO of GFP Real Estate, to discuss one of New York City’s most ambitious office-to-residential conversions to date: 25 Water Street. They unpack the challenges of converting a commercial tower into housing—from financing and zoning to adding modern amenities that meet today’s tenant demands. Brian shares how GFP Real Estate is addressing affordable housing needs, incorporating community feedback, and helping transform the Financial District into a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood, and how this increasing trend of commercial to residential conversions will be impacted by the...
2025-07-1022 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastSelling Over $20 Billion In Real Estate with Bob KnakalTo close out two incredible weeks of episodes live from The Real Deal Forum on Closed!, we’re ending on a high note with one of New York City’s real estate titans—Bob Knakal.Lee Bergstein and Bradley Pollina sit down with legendary broker Bob Knakal to discuss the lessons he’s learned from over 40 years in New York City real estate.Bob reflects on how mentorship, mistakes, and meaningful relationships shaped his career. From staying top-of-mind with clients to the role of authenticity in modern marketing, this episode goes beyond real estate...
2025-06-1316 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastTariffs & Real Estate with Ferdinando MonteWe invited Associate Professor of Economics at Georgetown University Ferdinando Monte to join us on this episode of Closed! to discuss the hot button topic of tariffs. Lee and Ferdinando discuss the myriad of ways tariffs could influence the real estate market in New York. Ferdinando Monte breaks down how tariffs can cause material shortages for developers, supply chain issues for commercial retail tenants and an increase in cost for consumers. If you're still trying to figure out how tariffs work and who they affect (like many of us are), then this episode is for you!...
2025-05-2029 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastConstruction Justice Act with Councilwoman Carmen De La RosaOn this episode of Closed! Lee speaks with New York City Councilwoman Carmen De La Rosa. The Councilwoman currently represents District 10, which includes Washington Heights, Inwood and Marble Hill. Before she was a Councilwoman, Ms. De La Rosa was a member of the State Assembly. Carmen in a fierce advocate for criminal justice reform, workers’ rights, affordable housing, LGBTIA rights and a number of other important social justice causes.We asked Councilwoman De La Rosa to join us to discuss her new bill, the Construction Justice Act. Councilwoman De La Rosa explains what the act is, ho...
2025-05-1323 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastReal Estate Marketing with Bob Knakal & Gabe MaransThis week on Closed!, we are honored to be joined by two real estate titans, Bob Knakal and Gabe Marans. Bob is the Chairman and CEO of BKREA and Gabe is the Vice Chairman of Savills. Bob has brokered the sale of over $22 Billion in real estate. Gabe has negotiated lease transactions for 6 Million square feet of commercial space. Lee and Mike spoke with these two about their techniques to marketing in the real estate sector.Bob and Gabe break down their journey on how they began on social media and what drew them to sites...
2025-04-2948 min
Two Lawyers Walk Into A BarPradnya Desh: AI Powered LawIn this episode of Two Lawyers Walk Into A Bar, Lee Bergstein sits down with Pradnya Desh, attorney and the CEO of Advocat AI. Pradnya and Advocat AI are making waves in the legal industry by utilizing AI to transform how businesses tackle the contract cycle.During the course of the conversation, Pradnya shares her journey from serving as U.S. Diplomat at the World Trade Organization and the UN Committee on Trade and Development in Geneva, to transitioning into private practice focusing on international trade, to founding and running Advocat AI. Beyond that, she is...
2025-04-2341 minObjection! You're FictionThe White Lotus with Stephen BarthOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, we talk with Stephen Barth, The Hospitality Lawyer, about the wild world of The White Lotus! Stephen has had years of hospitality risk management, legal compliance and training professionals on the hospitality industry.“Everyone is normal until they go to a hotel.” Stephen, Lee and Brad break down the law surrounding the hospitality industry, and how Stephen might improve on the lax management and security of The White Lotus.This is a deep dive into how competent hotels and resorts are managed, framed in the context of Th...
2025-04-1033 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastCongestion Pricing with Danny Pearlstein of the Rider's AllianceOn today’s episode of Closed!, Lee is joined by Danny Pearlstein, longtime transit advocate and Policy & Communications Director at the Riders Alliance, to talk about one of the most controversial—and effective—urban policies in New York City: congestion pricing.Danny breaks down how this decades-in-the-making plan is finally working: reducing gridlock, speeding up buses, and bringing in much-needed revenue to upgrade the MTA. We get into the legal fights, the political pushback (from New Jersey to Washington), and why opponents' arguments just don’t hold up. Danny also shares what’s next for NYC transit, f...
2025-04-0326 minObjection! You're FictionSeverance with Scott HerveyOn today’s episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Lee takes a detour from the standard dystopia of contracts and closings to the exciting dystopia of Lumon and Kier, with entertainment attorney Scott Hervey of Weintraub Tobin. Scott’s one of the legal minds working with Apple TV+ , publishers of the hit Severance. Together, they dive deep into the many legal and ethical questions the show raises.From employment contracts that would make any HR department sweat to IP ownership issues (what happens when your innie invents something brilliant?), Lee and Scott explore what Severance might look like...
2025-03-2741 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastProfessor Arpit GuptaOn today’s episode of Closed!, Lee sits down with Arpit Gupta, Associate Professor of Finance at NYU Stern, to explore how remote work is reshaping New York City’s office market, and where the opportunities might lie amid all the disruption.Arpit walks us through his research paper, Work from Home and the Office Real Estate Apocalypse (don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom), breaking down why Class A and A+ office space is thriving, while older buildings are being forced to rethink their future.Together, Lee and Arpit unpack h...
2025-03-1935 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastVishaan ChakrabartiOn today’s episode of Closed!, we’re diving into the future of cities with one of the leading voices in urban design. Lee sits down with Vishaan Chakrabarti, architect, urban planner, and founder of Practice for Architecture and Urbanism (PAU) to discuss his his vision for sustainable, equitable, and vibrant cities.Listen in to get a glimpse into Vishaan's career in both the public and private sectors—from advising Mayor Bloomberg on post-9/11 urban planning to leading transformative projects like the redevelopment of the Domino Sugar Refinery (one of the coolest developments in the city, from f...
2025-03-1331 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastJoseph TironeIt's 2025, where spring has sprung, and we’re kicking off a new season of Closed! with a conversation you won’t want to miss. Lee sits down with Joe Tirone, a seasoned real estate broker, community organizer, and the founder of The Joe Tirone Team at Compass Staten Island.In this episode, we dive into Joe’s decades of experience in NYC real estate and his pivotal role in organizing the Oakwood Beach Buyout after Hurricane Sandy. He shares how he helped Staten Island homeowners secure state-backed buyouts, flood risks to homeowners, and what that experience taught...
2025-03-0740 minObjection! You're FictionLegally Blonde & The Menendez Brothers with Meredith Scott LynnOn this week's episode we talk with Meredith Scott Lynn, who has been playing lawyers on TV and movies for over 20 years. You may recognize her from her role as Enid Wexler in Legally Blonde, and her portrayal of Leslie Abramson in Menendez: A Killing in Beverly Hills. We learn all about how an actor gets prepared for the roles of both fresh and seasoned attorneys, and even pitch a Legally Blonde reboot!We also got a chance to dive into her work as the founder of WRITE BRAIN BOOKS, a creative literacy program helping kids...
2025-02-1249 minObjection! You're FictionThe Apprentice - with Ben SullivanOn today's exciting episode of Objection! You're Fiction we try to get inside the mind of the man who molded the president through the eyes of his assistant. We got a chance to speak with "The Apprentice" actor Ben Sullivan, who played Roy Cohn's assistant and lover Russell Eldridge, about his experience working on the controversial biopic of Donald Trump and Roy Cohn.This is a movie that is one part drama, one part biography, and 3 parts character study. We get to hear from Ben about how each of these characters, and the real men they're...
2024-11-1943 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastErik Engquist - Presidential Housing PolicyOn this week's pre-election special of Closed! we talk to The Real Deal Senior Editor Erik Engquist to learn about what both presidential candidates are likely to do in terms of Housing Policy. We hear about incentives for development, what affordable housing can do for a local economy, and how important these policies are to voters.Erik's publication The Real Deal is the industry standard publication for New York Real Estate news. You can learn more at https://therealdeal.com/And as always you can learn more about real estate and the law...
2024-10-1532 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastCouncil Member Keith PowersThis week on Closed! we're joined by NYC Council Member Keith Powers for a very special episode! Council Member Powers asked his constituents what he could do to improve their quality of lives, and the result is our most requested, long-awaited episode on Sidewalk Sheds!We talk about the plethora of sheds on the streets of our city, covering everything from their obvious benefits and drawbacks to the unintended side effects. . How do sheds protect the populace? How do they harm local business? How does Local Law 11 contribute to an endless cycle of scaffolding going up...
2024-10-0130 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastGerard NoceraOn today's episode of Closed! Mike and Emily have the opportunity to speak with Gerard "Jerry" Nocera of Resolution Real Estate. In our wide-ranging discussion we learn about a lifetime of efforts in the real estate industry, hearing how Jerry has leveraged his experience in all aspects of the field to forge Resolution Real Estate into a full-service company. Jerry tells of his time being mentored by industry powerhouses and leading SL Green, one of the largest property management companies in the world. Whether you're interested in asset acquisition, development, management, or sales, there's something to...
2024-09-1738 min
Objection! You're FictionClosed! - Owning ManhattanBFKP Law Office is excited to present a crossover episode with our other show, "Closed! NYC's Real Estate Podcast" our interview with the cast of Owning Manhattan, the hit peek behind the curtain into the fast paced world of Serhant Real Estate. Come check out our intersection between legal TV and real estate experience just in time for the announcement of Season 2 on Netflix!Lee and Mike headed down to the Serhant office in Soho for a roundtable conversation with Jordan March, Tricia Lee, Jade Shenker, Jeffrey St. Arromand, and Genesis Suero. In our wide-ranging discussion...
2024-09-0359 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastOwning ManhattanBFKP is proud to present the Closed! podcast's interview with the cast of Owning Manhattan, Netflix's peek behind the curtain into the fast paced world of Serhant Real Estate, just in time for the announcement of Season 2!Lee and Mike headed down to the Serhant office in Soho for a roundtable conversation with Jordan March, Tricia Lee, Jade Shenker, Jeffrey St. Arromand, and Genesis Suero. In our wide-ranging discussion we touch on topics from the challenges of filming a long-term reality show, to maintaining a personal and professional brand, and a look into the skills and...
2024-08-3059 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastSenator Joseph Addabbo - NY Casino DevelopmentOn today's episode of "Closed!" we talk to NY State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Chairman of the Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering. Sen. Addabbo has a 20+ year career as an elected official representing New Yorkers as both a city council member and a state senator for Queens' 15th State Senate District, and we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to speak about his service and his expertise.It seems to many that the project to license casinos in Manhattan has been on our horizon for years, so take this chance to learn about the lengthy processes for both...
2024-08-2923 minObjection! You're FictionMichael Clayton - with Adam PollockOn this week's episode of Objection! You're Fiction, we talk to Adam Pollock of Pollock Cohen LLP about the Oscar nominated 2007 legal thriller Michael Clayton.Adam is an experienced litigator in criminal and civil law, and he lends his expertise on the profession to shed light on the moral and professional dilemmas facing Clooney's lead character. How much is realistic and how much is Hollywood drama?You can learn more about Adam and his work at Pollock Cohen LLP at www.pollockcohen.comAnd to learn more about all things...
2024-07-2633 minObjection! You're FictionThe Jinx Part 2 - Paul BlumenthalOn today's episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Lee and Brad sit down with lawyer turned actor Paul Blumenthal to discuss his role as Robert Durst in The Jinx Part 2, following the aftermath of Durst's notorious murder confession in 2015's hit documentary The Jinx.We chat about Paul's journey from solo practitioner to the screen, and the difficulties of embodying the persona and manner of The Jinx's unusual subject without saying a word. We also get the unique perspective of an accomplished lawyer on the intricacies of the real-life murder trial and appeal of Robert Durst, gaining...
2024-07-1158 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastDan Marks - CEO of TerraCRGOn today's episode of Closed! Lee sits down with Dan Marks, CEO of premier Brooklyn real estate brokerage TerraCRG, to talk about Lee's favorite borough. We learn about the strengths of the Brooklyn market over the last decade and the opportunities for growth in the next, as well as the changing development incentive landscape following the demise of 421a and the birth of the new 485x tax abatement program. We even touch on producer Conor's favorite topic: tax assessments on developed land!This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the Brooklyn development market, or...
2024-06-0730 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastSarah Pizer - Supportive Housing DevelopmentOn this episode of Closed! Lee speaks with Sarah Pizer of The Hudson Companies about her exciting Hell's Kitchen development "The Lirio." We learn about the difference between affordable housing and supportive housing, how The Hudson Companies worked with the MTA to secure the development, and the importance of addressing community issues and needs when planning new developments.We also touch base about developing their condominium at One Clinton in Brooklyn over a beautiful branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, and everyone's favorite process to say (and least favorite process to go through) ULURP!
2024-05-3125 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastJared White of Quadrum GlobalOn today's episode of Closed! we speak to Jared White of Quadrum Global to discuss the NYC hotel market, the process of evaluating and purchasing a major hotel like Quadrum's Arlo Williamsburg, and the value of services that hotels offer which non-traditional alternatives cannot.You can learn more about Jared and Quadrum Global at https://www.quadrumglobal.com/And as always you can check out bfklawoffice.com for all your real estate legal needs in NYC!To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw...
2024-05-2139 minObjection! You're FictionJury Duty - David Brown (Todd)On today's episode of Objection! You're Fiction we interview the improv mastermind behind fan-favorite character Todd of Jury Duty.Jury Duty took the world by storm last year on FreeVee, and David Brown delighted fans and participants alike with his portrayal of the socially awkward, bio-modification obsessed Todd.We get insight into the cast (jury?) selection process, the preparation everyone went through to walk the tightrope of realism and comedy, and just how tricky it is to remain in-character through days of simulated tedium.So pull up some chair-pants, and...
2024-05-0841 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastLayla Law-Gisiko: Community Involvement in Development PolicyOn today's episode of Closed! Emily and Mike chat with 18 year veteran of Community Board 5, Layla Law-Gisiko, about her experience and role in helping to shape development of midtown Manhattan.We have a very informative chat with Layla about what a New York Community Board does, how she got involved, and the enormous ways that you can impact your community through political activism. We learn about public housing, the impact of tax incentives and building conversion, long-term vs. short-term development policies, and the role she believes special interests should play in shaping these policies.
2024-04-2941 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastEric Anton - Sweet Deals and Market ReportOn this week's episode of Closed! Lee and Brad chat with award-winning broker Eric Anton of the Anton Group at Marcus & Millichap about the state of the market and insight into his most memorable deals.We get the scoop on Eric's expectations in the commercial real estate market and a behind the scenes look at his policy of building strong business relationships on commonality and communication. Who would have thought that solar eclipses and beekeeping can pave the way to successful deals?You can learn more about the Anton Group at https://antongroupnyc...
2024-04-1731 minObjection! You're FictionThe Producers (1967)On this exciting episode of "Objection! You're Fiction" Lee and Mike sit down to chat with our good friend David Slarskey to take a look behind the curtain at the Mel Brooks masterpiece "The Producers" (1967).This sidesplitting comedy is the oldest film we've looked at so far, and deserves to be remembered as ahead of its (spring)time. David is both a playwright and fellow lawyer who helps us break down the many defrauded investors and arson attempts as bumbling buffoons Bialystock and Bloom break laws and moral codes in search of the elusive greatest flop...
2024-04-0135 minObjection! You're FictionBFKP's Legal TV and Movie March MadnessMarch Madness BFKP style! The official OYF Selection committee discusses the intensive research and sophisticated process of determining seeds for its Best Legal Film and TV bracket. Which #1 seed is overrated? Which films get court right? Will we see any major upsets?And just one more thing... Have you seen the greatest legal film of all time?Download a copy of our bracket here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1sEcAdg1mT5VQ012clwWomk98w0WSh0ia?usp=sharingSubmit your filled out brackets to: https://docs.google.com/forms...
2024-03-2129 minObjection! You're FictionMad Men with Vincent KartheiserIn this episode of "Objection! You're Fiction," Brad and Lee switch up the format for a chat with the actor behind Pete Campbell, Vincent Kartheiser!We'll hear about the thought Vincent put into his character's motivation, the benefits of working with a professional creative team, and the way things might work differently for the "heroes" of Sterling Cooper in the modern day. We'll also touch on some inflection points for Pete Campbell, his career, and his relationship with Don Draper. From contention and blackmail to mutual respect, one never knows how loyalty is born. ...
2024-03-1148 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastYiannes Einhorn: Blueprints, Bricks, and Building InspectionsOn this episode of the Closed! Podcast, Lee and Brad chat with Yiannes Einhorn, a developer with experience on projects across NYC through his organization Grid Group. In our wide-ranging discussion we touch on Yiannes' entrance into development, commitment to quality construction, his father's role in pioneering home inspections, and even Brad's favorite: access agreements! It’s a conversation as engaging as it is informative, and we know you'll enjoy this peek behind the scenes of high quality home construction.To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bf...
2024-02-2043 min
Closed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastObjection! You're Fiction: The Santa ClauseCheck out the BFKP team in their series unpacking legal issues in movies and TV shows, "Objection! You're Fiction" On this holiday edition of Objection! Your Fiction, BFKP team members Lee, Brad, and Emily talk about the 1994 film The Santa Clause. Like any good children’s movie, it opens with the accidental death of Santa Claus and a coat-based contract. But how enforceable is this “Santa Clause?” Are milk and cookies fair compensation? Does your homeowner’s policy cover sleigh damage? Find out if the team would take on Scott Calvin's case by listening to our most festi...
2023-12-1937 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastMike Fabbri: Mixed Media and Real EstateOn this episode of the Closed! Podcast, Cooper and Emily chat with Michael Fabbri, a luxury real estate broker with The Agency RE. In his first year as a broker, he earned Corcoran's Manhattan Rookie Broker of the Year award for earning over $10 million in sales volume. He talks about the importance of leveraging social media as an agent, recent preference changes in luxury amenities, and gives the inside scoop of his appearances on The Real Housewives of New York City and Million Dollar Listing. It’s a fascinating conversation with a true real estate powerhouse, and we hope yo...
2023-12-1826 minObjection! You're FictionThe Santa ClauseOn this holiday edition of Objection! Your Fiction, BFKP team members Lee, Brad, and Emily talk about the 1994 film The Santa Clause. Like any good children’s movie, it opens with the accidental death of Santa Claus and a coat-based contract. But how enforceable is this “Santa Clause?” Are milk and cookies fair compensation? Does your homeowner’s policy cover sleigh damage? Find out if the team would take on Scott Calvin's case by listening to our most festive episode yet!To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hos...
2023-12-1437 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastJay Martin: CHIP and Affordable Housing Solutions in NYCOn this episode of the Closed! podcast, Lee and Mike chat with Jay Martin, the Executive Director of the Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP), where he advocates for fair housing policies in New York City. Martin discusses a lack of understanding of the NYC housing market, the power tenant groups have over lawmakers, and potential policy solutions to improve housing for all New Yorkers. Martin gives a fascinating perspective on the affordable housing issues pressing the city, and we hope you find the conversation as interesting as we did!To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton...
2023-12-1135 minObjection! You're FictionOn this episode of Objection! Your Fiction, Lee and Cooper chat with Rubin, Fiorella & Friedman LLP partner—and 90210 superfan—Michael Tomsky about the potential liability issues in Season 2 Episode 14 “The Next Fifty Years.” The group breaks down the scene of Scott accidentally shooting himself in the stomach to ask the following questions—was this a gun issue or a user issue? Does the “zone of danger” apply to David as a witness? Is there a potential for a suit against the parents? Find out the answers to these and more in our fascinating conversation about a 90s classic. Let us know what yo...
2023-12-0146 minObjection! You're FictionWilly Wonka and the Chocolate FactoryOn this episode of Objection! Your Fiction, Lee and Cooper chat with Thomas Brennan about liability issues in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971). Like the totally normal businessman he is, Mr. Wonka thought ahead and had the attendees sign a waiver the size of a room before embarking on their tour. But can this unreadable contract signed by children protect Willy and his factory/amusement park/deathtrap? Thomas, Lee, and Cooper ponder Liability in Loompaland and decide which of the children’s cases would be most likely to prevail in court. It’s a fascinating conversation revisiting a chil...
2023-11-1352 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastRobert Levine: RAL and the Future of Development in NYCOn this episode of the Closed! podcast, Cooper and Lee chat with renowned developer, Robert A. Levine, the founder and CEO of RAL, who has been responsible for the development of more than 100 luxury residential, hotel and mixed-use projects throughout the country totaling in the hundreds of millions of dollars in project valuations. The conversation focuses on Mr. Levine's experience developing One Brooklyn Bridge Park, the biggest residential conversion in Brooklyn’s history, but also touches on some of RALs other projects including Zero Irving, a recently finished office building on 14th street, and Quay Towers. Mr. Levine also sh...
2023-11-0156 minObjection! You're FictionComing to AmericaOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Cooper and Lee chat with intellectual property attorney Andres Munoz about the1988 film Coming to America staring Eddie Murphy. The conversation focuses on the trademark issues posed by "McDowell’s" the obvious McDonald’s knockoff that Murphy's character works at in the film. Andres addresses the strengths and weaknesses of McDonald’s hypothetical trademark infringement suit, the likelihood of McDonald's obtaining a TRO, and how the registration of a mark would impact the trademark analysis. It's another fun conversation that we hope you enjoy!Andres Munoz is a partner at Rom...
2023-10-2740 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastDavid Lombino: Developing the Refinery at DominoOn this episode of the Closed! podcast Brad and Cooper chat with David Lombino, the managing director of external affairs at Two Trees, about the newly opened Refinery at Domino. The Refinery at Domino is the centerpiece of the 11-acre Domino Sugar Factory site in Williamsburg -- a 15-story, 460,000-square-foot Class A office space built within an industrial brick structure originally completed in 1884. During the conversation Lombino shares the history of the project, including how Two Trees acquired the property, why they made the decision to turn this building into office space (when it was originally supposed to be...
2023-10-2329 minObjection! You're Fiction90s Sitcom ApartmentsOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Lee and Mike sit down with Daniel Gershburg, Esq. to discuss the housing and real estate issues that our favorite 90s sitcom characters would have likely encountered. The conversation starts with Seinfeld, where they chat about how Jerry, Kramer, and Newman would have handled a co-op interview and whether Kramer's antics would have led to him being removed from the building. They then move onto Friends, where they discuss how Monica ended up living illegally in a rent stabilized West Village apartment, and the potential consequences if discovered. Finally they close with a...
2023-10-0555 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastStephen Wendell: The Trends in Tourism and HotelsOn this episode of the Closed! podcast, Lee and Cooper chat with Stephen Wendell, Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties, a company that develops commercial and residential properties across the US. During the conversation Stephen discusses how Mountain Shore vets and selects its projects, how the pandemic impacted travel trends, and the challenges the company faced when recently developing a hotel in the Catskills. Stephen also shares his perspective on how the new Airbnb rules in New York City are likely to impact the hotel industry and the future of tourism in New York City. It’s a wi...
2023-09-2735 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastCouncilman Joe Borelli: Understanding NYC's Affordable Housing CrisisOn this episode of Closed! Mike and Lee chat with Councilman Joe Borelli, the Council Minority Leader from Staten Island, about NYC's affordable housing crisis. The conversation focuses on why it's so difficult to construct new units in NYC, how the end of 421a is affecting development, and potential compromises between the right and left on housing issues. They also discuss why so many rent stabilized units are vacant, why Brooklyn is leading the way in new development, and NYC's implementation of local law 97. It's an interesting conversation and we appreciate Councilman Borelli giving us some of his time...
2023-09-2037 minObjection! You're FictionUp in the AirOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Brad and Lee chat with labor and employment attorney Jeff Douglas about the 2009 film Up in the Air staring George Clooney. The conversation focuses on the employment issues at the center of the film's plot and the strategic considerations that go into drafting severance agreements. They also get into questions like how long an employer must give an employee to review a severance agreement and provide some in-depth analysis of Clooney's termination script. It's a fun conversation and we hope you give it a listen! Jeff Douglas is a...
2023-08-1842 minObjection! You're FictionThe Shawshank RedemptionOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction, Cooper and Lee chat with Timothy McNutt, Esq., the Director of Cornell ILR’s Criminal Justice and Employment Initiative, about The Shawshank Redemption. It's a wide ranging conversation about the film, but the main focus is on the main character's hypothetical post-incarceration employment prospects. As part of this analysis Tim explains the Green Factors, and uses the characters in the film to dole out advice for anyone with a criminal record who is seeking employment. Timothy McNutt, Esq., as Director of Cornell ILR’s Criminal Justice and Employment Initiative, uses...
2023-08-0349 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastBriggs Elwell: Developing Tools for Brokers and AgentsOn this episode of the Closed podcast Lee and Cooper chat with Briggs Elwell, the CEO and co-founder of RLTY Capital, a New York-based specialty finance firm for the real estate community offering a comprehensive suite of services for agents. During this conversation Briggs explains the nuts and bolts of RLTY's platform for advancing commissions for agents. Briggs also shares details about the suite of other products RLTY offers brokers including LLC formation, wealth management services, and (coming soon!) a comprehensive health insurance plan. We really enjoyed hearing all about what RLTY is doing in the...
2023-07-2636 minObjection! You're FictionMy Cousin VinnyOn this episode of the Objection You're Fiction, Cooper and Lee chat with Jared Rosenblatt, Special Professor of Law at Hofstra Law School, about Joe Pesci's classic film My Cousin Vinny. The conversation focuses on Vinny's trial advocacy skills, which are often lauded as an example for young lawyers to learn from. They also break down a few of Vinny's cross examination techniques, his opening statement, and analyze his overall preparation and strategy for the case. It's a fun conversation and we hope you give it a listen!Produced by Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina, "Objection! You're F...
2023-07-191h 00Objection! You're FictionBig DaddyOn this episode of Objection! You're Fiction Lee and Brad chat with Louisa DeRose, a partner at Rower LLC who specializes in matrimonial and family law issues, about Adam Sandler's classic 1999 film, Big Daddy. The conversation focuses on how New York City Court's would actually evaluate the case of Julian and whether Sonny would have any chance of getting visitation or custody based on the movie's facts. They also chat more generally about the child custody and adoption issues at the center of the film. Produced by Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina, "Objection! You're Fiction" provides an...
2023-07-1046 min
Objection! You're FictionEp1: SuccessionIn the pilot episode of Objection! You're Fiction Lee and Cooper chat with Seth J. Zuckerman, a criminal defense attorney with ChaudhryLaw PLLC about the final season of Succession. The conversation focuses on what criminal issues await the Roy family after the credits roll, including possible manslaughter and securities fraud charges against Kendall and obstruction of justice charges against Tom and Greg.Produced by Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina, "Objection! You're Fiction" provides an engaging and offbeat exploration of the legal quandaries facing our favorite characters in television and movies. Every episode invites listeners into the proverbial p...
2023-07-0745 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastWilliam Cohan: The REIT HeadacheOn this episode of Closed! we chat with New York Times best selling author William Cohan about the current state of the commercial real estate market. The conversation focuses on how the dual blows of the pandemic and rapidly rising rates have put the squeeze on owners of class B real estate, and the holders of office focused REITs. Cohan also shares his thoughts on the what future looks like for this asset class, and how building owners are likely to respond. It's an extremely informative conversation and we hope you give it a listen. William...
2023-06-2428 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarIra Leesfield: Bringing Empathy to the Practice of LawIn this episode of Two Lawyers Walk into a Bar, Lee Bergstein and Cooper Knowlton sit down with Ira Leesfield, the founder and managing partner of Leesfield Scolaro, a personal injury firm with offices in Miami, Key West, South Beach and Central Florida. Mr. Leesfield is one of the most prominent personal injury attorneys in the country, who was nominated as "Lawyer of the Year" by the Trial Lawyers for Public Justice, after he obtained a $19.8 million verdict against Honda Corp., and selected as one of America’s Top Ten Trial Lawyers. During this conversation, Mr. Lee...
2023-05-2658 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarShaun Pappas: New York Real Estate AttorneyIn this episode of "Two Lawyers Walk into a Bar" Cooper Knowlton and Lee Bergstein chat with Shaun W. Pappas, a partner at Starr Associates LLP, who practices in the general real estate group with a focus on development and offering plans. During this conversation they chat about why Shaun decided to go to law school, why he started his career in litigation, and how he pivoted from litigation to real estate transactional work. Shaun also shares some valuable advice for aspiring law students, and for anyone interested in working in the world of New York real estate. It's a gr...
2023-05-1038 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastFilippo Incorvaia: AI for Real Estate ProfessionalsIn this episode of the Closed Podcast, Lee Bergstein and Mike Flynn chat with Filippo Incorvaia, the CEO of FI Real Estate based in Miami. During this conversation Filippo explains how he is using AI tools like ChatGPT to improve systems and maximize efficiency within his business. He also shares how AI technologies have the potential to reshape the world of real estate and provides some practical advice for all professionals looking to learn how to use these powerful new tools. It's an incredibly interesting conversation and we hope you learn as much from it as we did! Give...
2023-05-0245 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastDavid Sheldon: Saving the SeaportDavid Sheldon is a coordinator and member of the community advocacy group Save Our Seaport, which is part of the Seaport Coalition. The Seaport Coalition recently came out victorious in a lawsuit against the Landmark Preservation Committee (LPC) over approval to build a tower in place of a parking lot (South St. Seaport Coalition v. LPC). In this episode of the Closed podcast Cooper Knowlton and Michael Flynn chat with David about this case, and discuss the larger implications that this matter may have on development and the preservation of historical sites in New York City. Give it a list...
2023-04-2230 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastSuzannah Cavanaugh: The Future of Rent-Stabilized Buildings & Covid Guarantees In this episode of the Closed! podcast, Lee Bergstein and Bradley Pollina chat with Suzannah Cavanaugh, a reporter and podcast producer at The Real Deal, where her work focuses on the intersection of CRE and public policy. In this conversation they discuss how the recent banking crisis is impacting owners of rent stabilized properties in New York City and what that might mean for the future of rent stabilization laws. They also chat about the the recent SDNY ruling on the New York City guarantee law and what the likely impact of that decision will be. ...
2023-04-1333 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastIrina Strembitsky: Cruising the WorldIn this episode of Closed! Lee Bergstein and Emily Ashe chat with Irina Strembitsky, the director of sales at Life at Sea Cruises, the world’s first three-year world cruise, which covers more than 130,000 miles, visiting 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents. During this conversation they chat about the origin of the three-year world cruise project, how Life at Sea came up with the three-year itinerary, and how they attempt to balance luxury and affordability. While the conversation might not have much to do with NYC real estate, it's an interesting business and one we thought our listeners would en...
2023-03-3029 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate Podcast2023 NYC Real Estate PredictionsIn 2023 we are kicking things off with a "Prediction Episode" where we attempt to make sense of what the NYC housing and commercial real estate markets will look like over the coming year. During the conversation we chat about how interest rates will continue to shape deal flow in the housing market, affordability in the rental markets, and the possibility of new tax abatements for developers. We also discuss whether 2023 will finally establish what the new normal is post-pandemic and how that will affect office leasing. Finally, we close out the conversation with some thoughts on experiential retail, rethinking...
2023-01-1231 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastPeter Grazioli: The Brooklyn Market ReportOn this episode of the Closed! podcast Cooper sits down for a one-on-one interview with Peter Grazioli, a licensed real estate salesperson with Brown Harris Stevens, based in Brooklyn. During the conversation they touch on what makes Brooklyn an outlier in the greater housing ecosystem, how rising interest rates are shaping buyers decisions, and other trends affecting the market. They also look at the evolving nature of the Brooklyn rental market, the neighborhoods that are changing most rapidly, and discuss some advice for buyers and sellers thinking about jumping into the market in the near term future. It's a...
2022-12-0225 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastExplainer: Good Guy GuaranteeIn this special explainer episode, Lee Bergstein, Mike Flynn, and Cooper Knowlton answer a common question: What exactly is a “Good Guy Guarantee?” Join to learn about the misconceptions and pitfalls of this subject, different “Good Guy Guarantee" scenarios and much more! As always let us know what you think.To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-10-2730 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastHari Kalyan: Prohibition Rules, Pandemic PossibilityOn this episode we chat with Hari Kalyan, who is a partner with Warren Kalyan & Mattocks and the co-founder of Randolph beer. He gives insight on how New York is functioning in a post pandemic world, explaining how remote work has affected the hospitality business, why cannabis licensing is more inclusive than liquor licensing, and much more. You definitely don’t want to miss this episode. As always let us know what you think! To learn more about Warren Kalyan & Mattocks you can visit their website here: https://www.warrenkalyan.com/To find out more about Bergstein Fl...
2022-10-1138 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastAllia Mohamed: Bringing Transparency to the Rental MarketOpenigloo is a new startup that aims to bring transparency to NYC's apartment-hunting process by gathering public information on thousands of rental buildings in the five boroughs into a single app. On this episode we chat with Allia Mohamed the founder of Openigloo who shares the story of the platform's launch in 2020, the unique ways in which they collect and aggregate data on the rental market, and how renters are using and responding to having this information. She also shares some of the recent trends that she's seeing in the rental market, some thoughts on brokers fees, and shares t...
2022-09-1531 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastKate Wittels: The Rise of Innovation DistrictsIn this episode Cooper Knowlton and Emily Cajigas chat with Kate Wittels, a partner at the consulting firm of HR&A, where she advises governments, developers, and businesses on leveraging technology and forging connections to create districts, workforces, and economies that are ready for the future. The conversation focuses on innovation districts -- understanding how they're formed, what they need to be successful, and the various challenges they often face. They also chat about innovation districts in New York City, specifically the Navy Yard and Industry City, and how these districts are being rethought in the age of remote...
2022-08-3125 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastHoward Husock: The End of 421-aHoward Husock is a senior fellow in Domestic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on municipal government, urban housing policy, civil society, and philanthropy. On this episode Lee Bergstein and Cooper Knowlton chat with Howard about the end of 421-a tax subsidy and the future of NYC's real estate tax system. The 421-a subsidy was a tax break where developers who included multi-family residential housing within their projects would get a tax break for 15-25 years. It was the most costly tax break in NYC, costing $1.77 billion dollars annually, and when...
2022-08-1428 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarTom Hanley: How a Real Estate Attorney Became a Peace NegotiatorTom Hanley is a partner at Glaser Weil in Los Angeles, where he leads a transactional real estate practice advising investors, joint venture partners, lenders and developers in all aspects of purchases, sales, financings, lease agreements and joint ventures. In this episode, he chats with Lee and Cooper about his path to law school, his early struggles with ADD, his transition from litigation to transactional work, and growing a real estate practice in Los Angeles. Tom also discusses how he ended up serving as a peace negotiator for the conflict in Bosnia, and negotiating one of the most successful...
2022-08-0558 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastKim Velsey: What's Driving the Affordability Crisis in the NYC Housing MarketOn this episode of Closed! Emily Cajigas and Cooper Knowlton chat with journalist Kim Velsey about a variety of topics related to the New York City housing market including how Airbnb rentals are affecting supply, bidding wars, and the proposed Good Cause Eviction Bill. They also address the new changes to the rent stabilization laws and how brokers are responding to the tightening market. It's a great conversation and Kim has a ton of interesting insights on all of these topics. You can find Kim on Twitter at @KVelsey. To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton...
2022-07-1936 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastProfessor Richard Peiser: New Towns and the Future of DevelopmentIn this episode David Friedman and Cooper Knowlton chat with Professor Richard Peiser. Professor Peiser is the Michael D. Spear Professor of Real Estate Development at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design, and wrote the textbook for Professional Real Estate Development. His most recent academic offerings include the Urban Land Institute’s “Guide to the Business” of Professional Real Estate Development and the Routledge Companion to Real Estate Development. In this conversation Professor Peiser discusses a variety of topics including his research on new towns, how the economic downturn will affect real estate development, and the affects of Covid on the r...
2022-07-1428 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastAssemblyman Harvey Epstein: Addressing NYC's Housing CrisisIn this episode Michael Flynn and Cooper Knowlton chat with Assemblyman Harvey Epstein. Assemblyman Epstein represents district 74 in NYC, stretching from Union Square to the Williamsburg Bridge and up to the UN. He is a tireless advocate of housing rights in New York City, and has co-authored several key pieces of legislation focused on the affordability crisis in the City. In this conversation he shares more about the housing issues currently facing New Yorkers, talks about key pieces of legislation he's currently working on, and shares resources for NYC residents interested in learning more about their rights. We feel...
2022-06-2133 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastJonathan Miller: Forecasting the NYC Housing MarketOn this episode Lee Bergstein and Cooper Knowlton chat with Jonathan Miller the CEO of Miller Samuel Inc. and an associate professor teaching market analysis at Columbia. Miller Samuel are market leading real estate analysts, and have been preparing the Douglas Elliman market reports for 28 years. During this episode they dive into trends currently affecting the housing market in NYC, discuss the lingering affects of the pandemic on the market, and chat about how the housing market in NYC compares to the rest of the country. Jonathan brings a wealth of information to this conversation and it's a must...
2022-06-0954 minClosed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastAndy Grover: Converting Retail Spaces into Dental OfficesIn this episode Lee Bergstein and Cooper Knowlton chat with Andy Grover the Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer at Tend, a technology-driven dental startup that provides hassle-free, personalized dental services. In this conversation they focus on how Tend has grown into one of the biggest dental businesses in NYC, by taking retail spaces and converting them into dental offices. To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-0335 min
Closed! NYC's Real Estate PodcastEpisode 1: Jeff BonkJeff Bonk is a broker at the HBB Group in Hoboken NJ. In this episode he chats with Mike Flynn and Lee Bergstein about the Hoboken real estate market. More specifically they discuss how the market has evolved, the differences between the purchasing in NY and NJ, and where they see the NJ market going in the coming years. It's a great conversation and we hope you give it a listen. To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for m...
2022-05-2454 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarJerry Goldfeder: Renowned Election Law AttorneyLee Bergstein and Cooper Knowlton chat with election law attorney Jerry Goldfeder about the inflection points in his storied career. The conversation also serves as a history lesson for anyone interested in New York City politics, and a roadmap for any lawyers considering entering the field of election law. (You can also tune in for a rare story involving Representative Jerry Nadler without a shirt and tie.) It's a great talk, and we hope you give it a listen. To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. H...
2022-01-2745 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarPracticing During the Pandemic: Maria SaenzMaria Sanez is an immigration attorney who represents clients throughout the United States in all types of immigration matters. During this call she discusses how her cases are being affected by the shutdowns and how she is advising clients during this time. Maria also discusses how she is managing to run her practice in the virtual world. You can learn more about Maria and her practice here: https://www.mariasaenzlaw.com/To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast...
2020-03-2713 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarPracticing During the Pandemic: Matthew SalimbeneNew York based personal injury attorney Matthew Salimbene discusses what is happening in New York Civil Courts and discusses how his cases are being affected by the current state of the world. To learn more about Matthew and his practice visit: https://www.salimbenelaw.com/. To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2020-03-2419 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarPracticing During the Pandemic: Damali PetermanLawyer, mediator, and educator Damali Peterman shares thoughts on how she is helping clients adapt during this time and discusses how she is being forced to adapt as a business owner herself.You can learn more about Damali here: https://damalilaw.com/To find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2020-03-2416 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarJoel Cohen: The Path to Founding TalksOnLawJoel Cohen is a former Skadden Arps attorney who founded TalksOnLaw, an online platform where legal experts share cutting edge ideas, and deliver CLEs through captivating and informative video content. During this conversation Joel discusses why he decided to get an LLM, what it was like starting his career at Skadden, and the moment he realized the world of big law was not for him. Joel also talks about the path that led him to TalksOnLaw, and shares some valuable insights for any lawyers out there who are interested in entrepreneurship. To find out more about Bergstein F...
2020-02-2750 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarAdam Safir: A Career in Security & IntelligenceAdam Safir is the head of Safir Intelligence & Security where he uses his diverse career experiences in law, finance, M&A, security, forensics and data management to help clients reduce, navigate and respond to a full spectrum of security and integrity risks. In this episode Adam shares stories about his early years at the University of Virginia, selling cars in Queens, working at the New York Stock Exchange, and his love of music. He also talks about starting his career at Sony, transiting to Wall Street, and ending up working for the family business. To find out...
2019-12-1652 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarTyler Reynolds: From the Law to Real Estate and FinanceOn this episode we chat with Tyler Reynolds a real estate developer at Singh Investors and the Vice President of Eyos Investors a Private Equity fund involved in the acquisition of properties in the hospitality industry. During our conversation Tyler discusses his experiences at Reed College, how he ended up working as an organizer for lobsterman in Maine, and the corruption trial that led him to apply to law school. We also discuss Tyler's path through law school to the New York Attorney General's Office and how he ended up getting back in the world of real estate development...
2019-12-0646 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarSteve Cohen: A Lifetime of StoriesSteve Cohen is a partner with the Pollock | Cohen LLP law firm in New York, where he focuses primarily on handling whistleblower/qui tam claims, class actions and mass torts. Before entering the legal profession, Mr. Cohen led a successful career spanning more than 35 years in the publishing industry. He served as an executive at both Time and Scholastic, and he was the CEO of several internet-based start-ups. In this episode Steve talks to us about getting kicked out of the Navel Academy, his years in politics, writing ads for Ronald Reagan, serving on four juries, and visiting the...
2019-11-2157 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarAitan Goelman: From OKC to the CFTC, a Top Trial Lawyer Shares His JourneyAitan Goelman is a litigation partner at Zuckerman Spaeder in Washington, DC, where his practice focuses on white-collar crime and complex commercial litigation. He is the former Director of the Division of Enforcement at the CFTC and was the youngest member of the team prosecuting Oklahoma City bombing suspects Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols. On this episode we discuss Aitan's years at Yale Law School, his experience clerking for Justice Aharon Barak on the Supreme Court of Israel, starting his career as part of the DOJ Attorney General’s Honors Program, and what it was like working on the Okl...
2018-08-2150 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarPaul Casteleiro: Standing Up for the Wrongfully ConvictedPaul Casteleiro is the Legal Director for Centurion, the first organization in the world dedicated to the vindication of the wrongly convicted. Prior to taking this position in October 2014, Paul was a sole practitioner with law offices in Hoboken, New Jersey where his specialty was criminal trial and appellate work. On this episode Paul shares stories about interning at the ACLU, working on the Chicago Seven trial, his time at the Hudson County Public Defender's Office, his first trial, and starting his own practice. Paul also talks about how to comport yourself in a courtroom and shares advice for...
2018-06-2052 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarJudge Kenneth Holder: Life Before the BenchKenneth C. Holder is a justice of the Queens County Supreme Court, Criminal Term in the 11th Judicial District of New York. He was elected to this position in 2008 and his current term expires in 2021. On this episode Judge Holder discusses growing up overseas, his passion for photography, his experiences at the University of Toledo Law School, starting his career at the Queens District Attorney's Office, and rising the ranks in the Narcotics Bureau in that office. Judge Holder also shares some stories from his years at the District Attorney's Office and talks about starting the first Drug Court...
2018-06-061h 03Two Lawyers Walk Into A BarDavid Shanies: How One Case Can Change Your LifeDavid Shanies is a skilled litigator who started his own civil rights practice after spending ten years as an associate at Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP. In this episode David discusses how he ended up at NYU Law School, his years at Hughes Hubbard, his experience clerking, and the pro bono case that changed his life. David also shares advice for anyone thinking about starting their own practice and gives some insight on how he finds clients.You can learn more about David here.And to learn more about Cooper and Lee visit www...
2018-05-3040 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarSilvia Serpe: Seizing The OpportunitySilvia L. Serpe is a seasoned litigator and criminal and government enforcement defense lawyer at Serpe Ryan LLP. In this episode Silvia chats about spending seven years at Cornell, starting her career at Davis Polk, clerking in the Southern District of New York, serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Civil Division, the transition back to private practice, and starting her own firm. Silvia also shares her thoughts on being a woman in the law, the importance of being honest and asking for what you want, and advice for anyone thinking of starting their own practice.
2018-05-1644 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarBrian Cuban: The Addicted LawyerBrian Cuban is a Dallas-based attorney, author, and addiction recovery advocate. His best-selling book, "The Addicted Lawyer, Tales of the Bar, Booze, Blow, and Redemption," is a look back at how addiction to alcohol and drugs as well as other mental health issues destroyed his career as a once successful lawyer. In this episode Cuban talks about his struggles with an eating disorder, how alcohol abuse affected his law school experience, and how he developed a cocaine addiction while practicing law in Dallas. Cuban also discusses why drug and alcohol abuse is so prevalent in the legal community and...
2018-05-0942 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarChristopher Renfroe: Always in the FightChristopher Renfroe, from Renfroe Driscoll & Foster, LLP, is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over thirty years of experience. He is often sought after for the most difficult cases, including the defense of the first death penalty case tried in Queens County. In this episode Chris shares stories about selling suits to pay for college, his first murder trial, and his early years working at the Legal Aid Society. He also talks about how he deals with the emotional toll of doing criminal defense work, the importance of having mentors, living life with no regrets, and always doing the...
2018-05-0241 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarChristian Lang: From Big Law to Big IdeasChristian Lang is a former associate at Davis Polk and the founder of Blacklines and Billables, a blog, forum, and podcast dedicated to sharing practical tips and tricks for success among law firm associates and starting conversations around other important aspects of associate life, such as the state of legal technology. On this episode Christian shares stories about leading Segway tours through Paris, spending hundreds of hours on his law school personal statement, why he chose NYU Law School, choosing corporate law over litigation, clerking in Tampa, Florida, and his years at Davis Polk. Christian also s...
2018-04-2459 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarDamali Peterman: Taking the Circuitous Path to Your Dream JobDamali Peterman is the CEO of Damali Law LLC and is a skilled corporate attorney, negotiator, mediator, and educator with experience working with clients throughout the world, across a wide array of industries. On this episode we discuss Damali's love for learning languages, the value in taking time off between undergrad and law school, attending law school at Howard University School of Law, working as a corporate associate in the Mergers & Acquisitions group at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, the experience of being a woman of color in big law, and why she decided to start her own practice. Demali...
2018-04-1644 min
Two Lawyers Walk Into A BarMichael Grudberg: A Career in White Collar Criminal DefenseMichael J. Grudberg is a partner in the White Collar and Government Investigations Practice at Tarter Krinsky & Drogin LLP. On this episode we discuss Michael's path to Yale Law School, his clerkship experience on the Second Circuit, why he decided to practice at a small firm, and his career as a white collar criminal defense attorney.See Michael's full bio hereAnd for more on Cooper and Lee visit www.bfklawoffice.comTo find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our website at bfkplaw.com. Hosted on...
2018-03-1444 min
Two Lawyers Walk Into A BarSteven Feldman: Becoming a Federal Prosecutor and the Transition Back to Private PracticeSteve Feldman works at Murphy & McGonigle where his practice focuses on white collar criminal litigation and securities enforcement matters. On this episode we discuss Steve's early years working on political campaigns, his clerkship experience, why he started out a small litigation boutique, his time as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and his path back to private practice.See Steven's full Bio hereAnd for more on Cooper and Lee visit www.bfklawoffice.comTo find out more about Bergstein Flynn Knowlton & Pollina PLLC, visit our...
2018-02-1452 minTwo Lawyers Walk Into A BarThe Intro Episode: Meet Cooper and LeeWelcome to the "Two Lawyers Walk into a Bar" podcast.Are you a law student, a young lawyer or a seasoned vet looking to make a career change? Have you or a loved one been injured in a car accident? If the answer to the first is yes and the answer to the second is no (and please stop calling me), then this is the podcast for you.Every week the "Two Lawyers Walk into a Bar" podcast brings you a conversation with a prominent legal professional. During these conversations we’ll work to...
2018-02-0707 min