The Human Side of Real Estate

In this episode of The Human Side of Real Estate , we dive into the spectacular world of Richard Hallward , the CEEQA founder & chairman, entrepreneur, and producer, who has mastered the tension between art and commerce. Richard, who began his career in the arts and events scene before CEEQA, shares his journey and the secrets behind CEEQA's famed production value. We explore whether the e...

This week, we have the immense pleasure of welcoming Tatiana Spencer , a true trailblazer in the Polish real estate market. With a career spanning over two decades, she is a pioneering force who has advised many retail clients in Poland. Tatiana's story is one of innovation and leadership. We dive into her journey from her early days at Jones Lang LaSalle to becoming Head of Retail, a Director at...

Ever wonder what it's like to build a life abroad for two decades, and then return to your homeland? In our latest episode, "A 21-Year Round Trip Home with Jason Sharman," we get into just that! My guest, Jason Sharman, European Director at Chancerygate, spent 21 incredible years immersed in Polish life and business before making the move back to the UK with his family. We unpack his unique journe...

In this episode I'm joined by James Turner, Group Managing Director at Balmain Group, a true veteran with 32 years of experience in the property industry. James has been involved with over €10 billion of shopping centre assets, and his insights are invaluable. During our talk we delve into: -James's creative and innovative approach to the real estate world. -The journey of professional reinvention...

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with a true legend of the central European real estate world, Tomasz Klodowski , AKA TK.  We began with TK's journey to reconnect with his Polish ancestral roots, a fascinating story that involved the iconic Bill Marriott. We then explore TK's remarkable 22-year tenure leading Stewart Title 's European operations, a period that cemented his reput...

In this episode, I'm joined by Hamish Potts , Head of JLL `s Tricity office. It was a very casual Saturday afternoon chat and a lot of fun getting to know Hamish better. We spoke about his move from the UK to Poland in 2006, and then his move from Warsaw to Sopot in 2019 in search of a better quality of lifestyle. We discussed how he is doing in his new role as Head of JLLs Tricity office, his lov...

Get ready for a candid conversation about a topic rarely discussed in the real estate world: Alcohol. In this episode I'm joined by Natalia Sobecka who is seasoned International Real Estate retail expert; she has worked with companies like Unibail, Rituals, CBRE, and JLL. Natalia is also an Alcohol-Free Coach and Wellness Guide. She brings a unique perspective, combining her extensive industry...

We`re back in 2025 with a bang!! In this episode I needed to bring my A-Game energy levels to keep up with this absolutley amazing tour de force of a lady! Im joined by Ewa Bodio-Ziółkowska, Head of Administration, Facility, Workplace, and Change Management at Volkswagen Financial Services. Ewa shares some of her incredible stories on overcoming fears, from conquering her fear of open water swimmi...

In this episode we are not only discussing the Human Side of Real Estate but also the Machine side of Real Estate, AI.  I'm joined by Tom Ogrodzki, CEO and Founder of REDD, the leading market intelligence platform in CEE.  In the discussion with Tom we'll explore: The Evolution of Real Estate Tech: Discover how REDD is helping the industry by addressing critical data challenges. The Impact...

In this episode we get into the theme of being comfortable with being uncomfortable! Lucyna is someone who is no stranger to pushing herself to the limits mentally and physically and embracing the uncomfortable. From globe-trotting adventures with her kids to conquering Ironman challenges, Lucyna's energy is infectious. We dive into her journey from the retail world to the construction industr...

In this episode, we explore how Michal's early ambition set the stage for his rise as one of the youngest CEOs in Polish real estate. We explore the unique Co-CEO model employed by 7R, tracing its origins to Roman times and examining its resurgence in contemporary corporates like Goldman Sachs, Netflix, and SAP. Michal shares insights from his studies at IMD Switzerland, highlighting the significa...

In this episode, we dive into the invaluable insights from Piotr's LinkedIn article, "30 Things I Would Tell My 20-Year-Old Self 20 Years Later." Piotr shares the wisdom he's gained throughout his two-decade professional journey, and we explore some of the standout lessons in depth. Additionally, Piotr discusses his impactful role as a mentor with Top Woman in Real Estate, offeri...

In this episode, I'm joined by Soren Rodian Olsen, Managing Director of Logicenters Poland at Nrep. Both Soren and I have been long-term expats in Poland, sharing many experiences over the past 20 years. We discuss: - How we ended up in Poland - Our adaptation to life here - Raising bilingual children - Maintaining our national identity while ensuring our kids embrace it too - Soren's management s...

In this episode, I chat with Daniel Bienias, Managing Director CEE at CBRE. Having known Daniel for years, our chats have always been a fascinating whirlwind of topics, this conversation was no exception! We delved into: - Continuous Improvement - Daniel’s decision to return to Harvard - Empathy-based leadership - Leading in a multi-generational company - Essentialism: Quality vs. Quantity in rela...

In this episode, I am joined by Bogi Gabrovic, the Deputy Country Head of CTP Poland. Together, we explore a diverse array of topics, including Bogi's transition from CFO to Country Head, her distinctive leadership style, effective strategies for managing stress and finding balance, insights on the influence of Gen Z, invaluable life lessons, and much more. Join us for an engaging conversation...