The Real State

As 2026 begins, hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond slow things down to reflect on the conversations that mattered most in 2025 on The Real State Podcast. Rather than revisiting headlines or trends, this year-end episode focuses on the ideas, stories, and debates that stayed with them long after the microphones were turned off. In this special Year in Review, Alex and Jamie revisit four standout episodes that capture the core themes of the show: Trading Suits for Stories, a deeply personal conversation about career pivots, creativity, and second acts; Tourism Revolt, an exploration of overtourism, housing pressure, and the balance between free markets and quality of life; Boundless, a discussion inspired by Alex’s book on accessibility, disability, aging, and inclusive design; and Fair Play, a forward-looking conversation on how schoolyards, parks, and public spaces shape confidence, behavior, and belonging from an early age. Across these episodes, recurring questions emerge. How do systems designed for efficiency overlook human experience? What role should government play in protecting livability, inclusion, and access? And how can design, policy, and community engagement work together to create better outcomes for everyone? This episode offers longtime listeners a chance to reconnect with the ideas that defined the year, and new listeners a clear entry point into the conversations that sit at the heart of The Real State. It’s a reflective, wide-ranging discussion about cities, culture, accessibility, and how thoughtful design can improve everyday life. If you’re looking for a snapshot of where the show has been and where it’s headed next, this episode brings it all together. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do the spaces where we play as children teach us about belonging, confidence, and opportunity? In this episode of The Real State, Alex Norman and Jamie Blond sit down with Honorata Gręczykowska, an urban designer living and working in Barcelona whose research focuses on how the design of everyday spaces influences behavior, mobility, and social dynamics. Drawing from years of work across Europe and deep, year-long studies inside Catalonian primary schools, Honorata explains why schoolyards are often the first true public spaces children navigate independently—and why they matter far more than we realize. The conversation explores how culture, especially in a football-centric city like Barcelona, shapes public space design, and how participatory, intersectional research with children, parents, teachers, and municipalities can challenge long-standing norms. We dig into how small design decisions can dramatically change who feels welcome, who participates, and who is pushed to the margins, and why inclusive design doesn’t require big budgets—just better understanding. We close by looking ahead. What could the future of schoolyards, parks, and public spaces look like if cities truly designed for how people live and play? And how might these early experiences shape healthier, more confident communities for generations to come? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In From Success to Significance: The Second Mountain Mindset, Alex Norman and Jamie Blond unpack why the goals that drive us early in life often stop feeling satisfying and how that shift can open the door to purpose, community, and contribution. Inspired by David Brooks’ The Second Mountain, they share personal stories of career peaks, loss, reinvention, and the moment when achievement gives way to meaning. From Miami to Mexico City, more people are rebuilding their lives in midlife and rethinking what fulfillment looks like. This episode offers a candid, often funny take on second acts, the role of place in starting over, and why giving back can feel better than getting ahead. Follow The Real State for more honest conversations about life, change, and the spaces we build. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the club era over or just evolving? In “Club Collapse,” Alex and Jamie trace the arc from Studio 54 to bottle service and today’s experience-driven mega clubs, then dig into why many are shuttering and what’s rising in their place. They cover cost inflation, $150–$200 entry fees, festival trade-offs, and the growing pull of destination party spots. You’ll hear why restaurants with “show” vibes are siphoning demand, how private members clubs changed the lounge game, and why smaller rooms, vinyl bars, and mixed-use spaces are delivering the connection people actually want. Alex also shares a DJ’s view on what makes intimate sets work and how venues can nurture emerging talent. If you enjoyed our restaurant episode, this one pairs perfectly. Rate and review, then tell us where you think nightlife goes next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Restaurant Week started as a short, clever fix in 1992 and grew into month-long “deals,” yet the math has changed. Hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond unpack how food costs, rent, and wages climbed while drinking declined, why $60 prix fixe dinners still land at $300 with drinks and fees, and how seasonality and loud, rushed dining rooms erode the experience. With anecdotes from Miami and New York plus cultural shifts like Ozempic and Gen Z drinking habits, they explore what this says about the real state of city dining today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Tourism Revolt: The Fight to Reclaim Cities from Mass Travel, Alex Norman and Jamie Blond explore how the explosive growth of global tourism is fueling backlash in cities like Barcelona, New York, Mexico City, Tokyo, and Miami. From Airbnb bans and disappearing neighborhoods to squirt-gun protests and soaring housing costs, they unpack how mass travel is reshaping local life—for better and worse. With tourism now a $10 trillion global force, this episode dives into the tension between economic growth and cultural survival, asking: who are cities really for—the locals who live there or the tourists passing through? Packed with real-world stories, stats, and banter, this episode challenges listeners to rethink how we travel—and how we build the cities we love. Have you witnessed tourism changing your city—or one you’ve visited? Share your story and join the conversation @realstatepodcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of The Real State Podcast, co-hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond dive into the story of Rashmi Airan—a former lawyer whose path to the American Dream came crashing down when she was federally indicted for real estate fraud. Rashmi shares the raw truth of her journey, from prison to personal rebirth, and introduces her RISE Process™ (Reframe, Identify, Surrender, Evolve), a transformational framework that helps individuals and leaders navigate adversity and grow through challenge. With themes of ethics, ego, culture, and redemption, this is a must-listen for anyone who’s faced a setback and wondered how to begin again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State, Alex and Jamie explore the real state of inclusion with special guest and co-author Garrett Mayersohn to celebrate the launch of Boundless: Real Stories and Practical Strategies for Inclusive Living. Together, they dive into the stories and strategies behind designing spaces that remove barriers for people of all abilities. From Alex’s personal caregiving journey to Garrett’s lived experience navigating the world with cerebral palsy, this conversation blends humor, insight, and real talk about the importance, and impact, of Universal Design. They unpack what most people misunderstand about accessibility, why ADA compliance isn’t enough, and how better design benefits everyone. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: What Boundless is all about 04:15 – Garrett’s journey and what cerebral palsy has taught him about design 08:32 – The real audience for this book—and why it’s more than just professionals 15:10 – What is Universal Design, really? 21:40 – Real-life design fails and what they teach us 26:00 – The economics of inclusion: cost, risk, and return 35:00 – The movement ahead: What Boundless aims to change 📘 Get the book: Boundless on Amazon 🌐 More on inclusive design: Access Built Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Trading Suits for Stories, Alex and Jamie share their personal journeys of leaving behind traditional careers in Wall Street and advertising to embrace the unpredictable world of creativity. They dive into the mindset shifts, hilarious missteps, and unexpected inspirations that fueled their transitions into writing, acting, DJing, and authorship. From pandemic pivots to finding the courage to create, they explore why passion, perseverance, and the right environment matter more than ever. Whether you're thinking about making your own leap into a creative life or just need a little inspiration to trust the journey, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even plot your own reinvention. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State, we uncover the truth about short-term rentals with Christina Robinson, real estate entrepreneur, educator, and self-made superhost. From house-hacking her first property while working a 9-to-5, to managing a portfolio of vacation rentals in South Florida, Christina walks us through the highs, lows, and total myths of the short-term rental game. We dig into: Why short-term rentals are not as passive as they seem The difference between long-term and vacation rental income Self-managing vs. using property managers (and why it’s not just about the money) How technology, systems, and building the right team helped her escape the 9-to-5 Why mindset, location, and hustle matter more than hype Whether you're dreaming of Airbnb riches or just curious about getting into real estate, this conversation breaks down what it really takes to win in the short-term rental world. Timestamps00:00 – Intro + Why this episode matters03:05 – Christina’s origin story: From finance to first-time buyer11:20 – House-hacking before it had a name15:45 – Short sales, student tenants, and the path to passive income21:15 – The Airbnb algorithm: what every host should know25:35 – Vacation rentals vs. long-term rentals: what's the real payoff?33:00 – The truth about self-managing (and burnout)40:20 – Tech, tools, and what makes a 5-star stay48:10 – The 3 C’s: Checklist, CRM, and Capacity52:40 – Final thoughts + Key takeaways 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @therealstatepodcast🌐 More episodes + show info: www.therealstate.co💬 Guest Info: Christina Robinson @christinarinvests Leave us a review, share the episode, and let us know what “Real State” topic we should uncover next! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State, Alex and Jamie ask the question that feels more relevant than ever: Does anyone actually read anymore? From the joys of childhood encyclopedias and comic books to the digital reading habits of today, the duo takes a thoughtful (and hilarious) trip down literary memory lane. They discuss fiction vs. nonfiction, the decline of attention spans, the rise of audiobooks, and what the future of reading might look like in an era of TikTok, AI, and shrinking libraries. Topics Covered: Childhood memories of reading and early obsessions (World Book, comic books) Fiction vs. nonfiction: What we read now and why The decline of print and rise of digital reading habits (iPads, audiobooks) The status symbol of bookshelves (and Zoom backgrounds!) Whether kids today are missing out on the benefits of reading How algorithms shape what we read (or don’t) The impact of reading on language, learning, and imagination Audio vs. visual learners in the age of content overload The long-term implications of a society that reads less Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome + why we used to love reading 03:30 – Growing up with books in Brazil and beyond 07:10 – Jamie’s Michael Crichton phase & fiction’s golden age 10:50 – Paperbacks vs. iPads: the evolution of how we read 14:45 – Do books on shelves make us look smarter? 18:30 – Why Alex shifted to nonfiction and stopped reading fiction 22:40 – Audio books, Whoopi Goldberg, Obama, and the voice in your head 26:15 – Kids today: attention spans, algorithms, and learning challenges 33:00 – What happens if we stop reading? 38:30 – Has content just evolved or been dumbed down? 40:00 – Final thoughts: the real state of reading today Website: www.therealstate.co Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State Podcast, we dive into the high-stakes world of transitional lending—the financial glue that keeps real estate projects moving forward. Our guest, Ian Glaser, partner at BridgeInvest, shares how private lending is fueling Miami’s booming skyline and beyond, financing everything from adaptive reuse projects to large-scale mixed-use developments. Join hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond as they explore: How transitional lending unlocks new development opportunities The rise of adaptive reuse—turning vacant malls, old hotels, and outdated office buildings into vibrant new spaces Why banks are stepping back and private lenders are stepping in The housing shortage crisis and how financing can help solve it With insightful stories, expert insights, and a touch of humor, this episode unpacks the power of private real estate lending and its impact on communities across the U.S. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify for more deep dives into real estate trends that shape our everyday lives! #RealEstate #TransitionalLending #Finance #MiamiRealEstate #AdaptiveReuse #UrbanDevelopment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Real State Podcast – Miami Weather: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly Looking for an entertaining and insightful take on real estate, urban living, and how it all affects your daily life? The Real State Podcast is your go-to destination for the latest trends in real estate, city living, and everything in between! In this episode, hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond dive into the unpredictable drama that is Miami weather—from endless sunshine and tropical breezes to hurricane scares and flooding streets. Whether you're a lifelong Miamian or a new arrival, you'll relate to the highs and lows of living in the Magic City. Key topics in this episode: The perks of Miami weather – no winter, year-round warmth, and why it’s better than LA. The not-so-great parts – humidity, freezing indoor A/C, and unpredictable rainstorms. The ugly truth – hurricanes, mandatory evacuation zones, and what it's like to prepare for the big one. Why people from New York, Chicago, and even South America flock to Miami year-round. The real reason everyone wears shorts in Miami (hint: it’s not just for comfort). Tune in for a funny, engaging, and brutally honest take on Miami's climate and why, despite all its quirks, people keep coming back for more. Visit TheRealState.co for more episodes and to share your thoughts! Love the show? Don’t forget to leave a rating & review—it helps more listeners find us! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us on this flavorful journey as we dive into the growing wine culture in Miami with special guest Alexa Ferra, Director of Marketing at the Perez Art Museum Miami, wine blogger at Alexa’s Wine Diary, and podcaster of Pouring Over Pages. In this episode, we explore how Miami’s burgeoning wine scene intertwines with the city's arts culture, attracting new residents and fostering a sense of community. Discover the parallels between Miami and other regions known for their wine industries, and gain insights into how art, wine, and people come together to shape the city’s unique identity. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone curious about Miami's cultural evolution, this episode is not to be missed! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State Podcast, "Senior Living Redefined: Brandon Schwab on the Future of Compassionate Care", hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond explore the evolving landscape of senior living with Brandon Schwab, founder and CEO of Shepherd Premier Senior Living (SPSL). Brandon shares his journey into the senior care industry, inspired by personal experiences and a desire to transform outdated, institutional facilities into cozy, home-like environments offering unparalleled care. The discussion delves into the pressing need for innovation in senior living, with the senior population expected to double by 2060 and the industry requiring 775,000 new beds by 2030. Key topics include: How SPSL's 10–20 bed homes provide four times more care than traditional facilities. The importance of community integration, personalized care, and creating family-like atmospheres. The challenges facing the senior living industry, including financing gaps and the demand for higher quality care. The future of senior living as the "silver tsunami" reshapes the industry. Whether you're navigating senior living options for a loved one or interested in the future of compassionate care, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and a bold vision for the future of senior living. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this engaging episode of The Real State, Alex Norman and Jamie Blonde dive into the fascinating intersection of location, culture, and driving behavior. How does traffic reflect a city’s personality? Why does driving in Miami feel like a chaotic cultural blend, while Los Angeles drivers seem to embrace gridlock as a way of life? From New York’s honking culture to the symphony of horns in India, the hosts explore how location shapes not only how we drive but also how we live. The conversation touches on technological advances like Waze, autonomous vehicles, and electric cars, and how these innovations are changing the way we navigate our cities—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. They also debate the societal and personal impacts of congestion pricing and traffic technology, weaving in anecdotes about the chaos of Sao Paulo, the laid-back commutes of LA, and the competitive nature of navigating New York. Whether you're stuck in traffic or cruising freely, this episode will make you think differently about the roads we share and the cultures they reflect. Tune in for a mix of humor, insights, and thought-provoking discussion on the ever-evolving world of driving. Key Topics: How traffic culture varies globally and reflects societal norms The role of technology in shaping driving behavior Autonomous vehicles, urban planning, and the psychology of movement Personal stories from Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and beyond Stay safe on the road—and maybe don’t honk too much in Miami! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this insightful episode of the Real State Podcast, hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond explore the contrasts and unique attributes of everyday life in Tokyo, Japan. Alex, fresh from a visit to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, shares observations on Japanese culture, from the intricate urban design and orderliness of Tokyo's streets to the culture of respect and meticulous architectural details that define the city's infrastructure. Jamie brings in perspectives from his visits to Japan, reflecting on cultural staples like sushi, the technological marvels of Tokyo Bay, and Japan’s harmonious blend of tradition with modernity. The duo delves into the societal implications of Japan’s aging population, highlighting how urban areas are adapting for the elderly, as well as the unique influence of business and spirituality on everyday life. They also touch on iconic Japanese experiences such as Tokyo's vinyl bars, advanced toilet tech, and the pervasive influence of karaoke culture. Jamie and Alex wrap up by encouraging listeners to experience Japan’s singular way of blending the old with the new, noting that, despite the long journey, Tokyo’s distinct culture and societal respect make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique view of modern and traditional life in harmony. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Real Estate Podcast, titled "Designing Decisions: How Places Shape Our Choices", hosts Alex and Jamie delve into the fascinating world of how our surroundings influence the decisions we make every day, often without us even realizing it. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into social and behavioral design, explaining how strategic choices in the design of public spaces, products, and environments can nudge human behavior in specific ways. From the arrangement of snacks in a cafeteria to the strategic placement of trash cans at Disney World, the hosts highlight how design shapes our choices through subtle cues. The discussion explores key concepts such as: Nudging: Small interventions that steer behavior without restricting freedom. Affordance: How the design of objects suggests their use. Feedback: Immediate responses to actions that reinforce behavior. Choice Architecture: Structuring choices in ways that guide people toward better outcomes. The episode provides real-world examples, like how a staircase designed as a piano in Stockholm increased its usage by making it more engaging, and the use of a fly etched in a urinal at an airport in Amsterdam to reduce spillage. They also discuss how locations like casinos, airports, and retail stores utilize design to control and influence customer behavior—whether it’s to guide them through specific paths, reduce litter, or increase sales. The conversation moves to more serious applications, such as designing spaces for people with dementia or how parks like the High Line in New York and the Underline in Miami use behavioral design to transform unused urban spaces into vibrant community areas. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question: How much control do we really have over our decisions, and how much are we influenced by our environment? Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the ways social and behavioral design shape their choices in everyday life, whether it’s through technology, urban spaces, or retail experiences. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Real State Podcast, hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blond dive into the intriguing intersection of geography and attraction. Joined by digital wellness expert Anya Pechko, the discussion explores how location—whether it's a bustling city like New York or a laid-back destination like Miami—shapes who we're drawn to and why. Discover the historical roots of attraction, the role of technology and culture, and how cities and environments influence dating dynamics and personal connections. Tune in for actionable insights on improving your success in love, life, and work by understanding the "location chemistry" that subtly guides our choices. Perfect for listeners interested in dating, psychology, and the impact of place on human relationships. Keywords: location, attraction, dating dynamics, geography, culture, technology, relationships, psychology, wellness, New York, Miami, Real State Podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Real State Podcast, hosts Alex and Jamie dive into the complexities and nuances of the modern airport experience, particularly during peak travel seasons like summer and events such as the Paris Olympics and the Euro Cup. The discussion spans various aspects of airport logistics, comparing regional differences, and sharing personal travel tips. Key Points: Historical Context and Modern Evolution: The hosts provide a brief history of airports, noting their significance from early 20th-century military training grounds to contemporary hubs of international travel and commerce. Check-In Process: Nostalgic reflections on curbside check-ins and the evolution to online boarding passes and luggage policies. Debate over the reliability of curbside vs. counter check-ins and the advent of carry-on only travel. Security and Boarding: The impact of TSA PreCheck and CLEAR on streamlining the security process. Observations on the differences in boarding processes between U.S. and European airports, including the role of jet bridges vs. bus boarding. Lounge Experience: Comparison of U.S. and European airport lounges, noting the superior food and service in European lounges. Discussion on the proliferation of lounge access through credit card benefits. Airport Layout and Transportation: Challenges of navigating large airports, particularly in Europe, where long distances between gates can be a hassle. Praise for efficient transportation options like the Heathrow Express and critiques of less convenient setups. Post-Arrival Logistics: The complexities and frustrations of baggage claim, including the importance of tracking systems. The transformative role of Uber and other ride-sharing services in simplifying airport-to-destination transportation. Travel Tips: Utilize credit card benefits for lounge access and expedited security services. Avoid checking luggage to save time and reduce the risk of lost baggage. Print boarding passes in advance to streamline the boarding process. Choose snacks that are considerate to fellow passengers. Check the The Real State for more information   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.