In an interview with Vice Chair Gene Spiegelman and The Broker Bunch team, Brian Whelan and Mitchel Flaherty. Gene shares his journey in real estate, focusing on the importance of long-term relationships and honing skills over time. He reflects on the “sink or swim” nature of the industry, where the only way to succeed is by building connections and proving yourself.
After 18 years at Cushman & Wakefield, he looks back on a rewarding chapter that helped shape his career. Today at RIPCO, Gene brings both experience and enthusiasm to every project and appreciates how a polished skill set, paired with great relationships, can make the work truly enjoyable.
Brian and Mitchel go deep into his journey, from being a new broker with zero experience to becoming one of NYC’s top retail real estate experts. Gene reveals his strategies for navigating the challenges of NYC’s evolving retail landscape—from the role of client relationships and long-term networking, to the technological advances like AI and geofencing that are reshaping how brokers understand modern consumer behavior.
Tune in to the conversation:
