ICSC President & CEO Tom McGee joins John Crossman to discuss why retail real estate is stronger than ever, the myth of the “retail apocalypse,” and how physical stores power today’s omnichannel economy. Drawing on decades of leadership experience at Deloitte and ICSC, McGee shares insights on data-driven decision-making, navigating industry disruption, and what young professionals need to succeed in commercial real estate. Learn why occupancy rates remain high, demand continues to outpace supply, and how the “retail renaissance” is reshaping communities nationwide. 

In this episode of Crossman Conversation: CEO Edition, John Crossman sits down with Brian Seidensticker, founder of Last Best Partners, to explore how today’s uncertainty in commercial real estate is creating new opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs.

Brian explains why “chaos creates opportunity” in shifting markets. He shares how his firm partners with real estate operators who have strong ideas but need alternative capital solutions beyond traditional bank financing. He also discusses the key traits young professionals need to become effective founders and CEOs, including curiosity, mentorship, and a commitment to continuous learning.

If you’re a real estate entrepreneur, investor, or emerging leader looking to grow beyond your current ceiling, this episode delivers practical insight on scaling ideas into impactful ventures.

In this episode, John Crossman and Dr. Joshua Harris explain why the ICSC Conference is the “center of the universe” for commercial real estate each year.
They share strategies for students, young professionals, and executives to maximize networking, schedule high-value meetings, and move stalled deals forward.
Crossman emphasizes the importance of setting clear conference goals and executing a follow-up plan after the event.
Harris highlights how ICSC offers a rare chance to take the pulse of the entire real estate market in just two days.
As they note, careers can start—or stall—based on how intentionally you show up at ICSC. 

In this episode of Crossman Conversations CEO Edition, John Crossman interviews Najla Kayyem on how strategy, relationships, and communication are shaping success in today’s commercial real estate industry. Najla explains, “The market is really rewarding strategy,” highlighting the importance of disciplined positioning and stakeholder alignment. She also advises young professionals to “do what you’re good at and hire out what you suck at,” emphasizing strengths-based leadership. John adds, “Communication is not what you think you said. Communication is what is heard.”  This episode delivers practical insight for emerging leaders aiming for the C-suite. 

In this episode, John Crossman talks with Dr. Joshua Harris about the biggest shifts shaping commercial real estate in 2026. Dr. Harris explains why success today requires realistic expectations, flexible strategy, and disciplined capital planning, and why mixed-use development is gaining renewed credibility across markets. He also shares insights on migration to smaller towns, shifting investment assumptions, and how technology will reshape but not replace relationship-driven dealmaking. 

As Harris notes, “Acceptance of reality is the key to keep things moving,” while Crossman emphasizes the importance of adapting strategy as market cycles evolve. This conversation is essential listening for investors, developers, brokers, and leaders navigating today’s commercial real estate landscape.

In this CEO Edition of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman speaks with Tom Pedulla, Head of Real Estate Investments at Gordon Brothers, about commercial real estate investment strategy, leadership, and career growth in today’s evolving CRE market.

With more than 35 years of experience managing debt and equity real estate investments across the United States and Canada, Tom shares insights on underwriting complex transactions, navigating market cycles, and building long-term success in commercial real estate and finance.

“Tom brings a rare combination of deep technical expertise and real-world leadership experience,” says Crossman. “His perspective on navigating complex investments and building a long-term career in commercial real estate is invaluable for both seasoned professionals and those just getting started.”

This episode is ideal for professionals interested in commercial real estate investing, real estate finance strategy, CRE leadership, and career development.

From the continued strength of retail to the challenges facing office, Scott breaks down current market conditions and what they mean for investors, developers, and operators across the country. He also dives into the role of preferred equity and LP capital in today’s deals, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how projects are getting financed in a shifting market.

Plus, Scott shares valuable advice for students and young professionals looking to break into the industry and build long-term success.

Dr. Harris shares practical advice for those interested in commercial real estate careers, explaining the different paths students can take—from brokerage and development to research, investment strategy, and advisory roles. Drawing on his experience in both academia and the industry, he discusses how students can evaluate their strengths, choose the right specialization, and gain valuable experience while still in school.

The conversation also explores the importance of mentorship, education, and understanding the broader commercial real estate market when building a long-term career. For students studying real estate, finance, business, or economics, this episode offers valuable insight into how to navigate the industry and find the career path that fits their goals.

Whether you’re a college student exploring jobs in commercial real estate or a young professional looking to break into the industry, this episode provides guidance from one of the field’s leading voices.

Andy shares leadership advice for emerging professionals, why collaboration wins, and why one principle remains true in every market cycle:

Showing up is undefeated.

A must-listen for anyone building a career in commercial real estate.

BIO: Angela is a visionary leader and CEO with 30 years of experience in real estate investment, property management, franchise ownership and sales, business development and commercial banking. She is the co-owner of AvenueWest Managed Corporate Housing and AvenueWest Global, a franchise-based enterprise that combines corporate housing, property management, and real estate services.

Under her leadership, AvenueWest has grown from a small real estate brokerage to a national, award-winning company and five-time honoree on the Inc. 5000 fastest growing companies list. With managed properties in 500+ cities, over $150M in residential real estate, and 18 franchise locations across the country, Angela's strategic vision and unwavering dedication to excellence continue to drive the company's growth and solidify its position as a leader in the corporate housing industry.