Beyond the Resume Podcast with David Kramer (Market-Rate Mindset, Mission-Driven Results)
👀 YouTube: https://youtu.be/xiSqXKXpKtA • 👂 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/35ZJGLT
In this episode of Beyond the Resume, hosts Chris Papa and Lisa Flicker sit down with David Kramer, President of Hudson Companies, for an unfiltered conversation on leading one of New York’s most prolific real estate firms. With decades of experience and a portfolio that spans affordable housing, mixed-income, and market-rate development, David offers insight into what it really takes to build at scale in one of the world’s most complex markets.
From navigating policy shifts and capital constraints to embracing career pivots and creative deal-making, David shares stories and lessons from a lifetime in development. The conversation covers pragmatism, risk, mentorship, and the fine balance between public good and private enterprise. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in real estate looking to think bigger, lead better, and build smarter.
Chapters
(04:18) – Lessons from Early Deals and Early Risks
What he learned from early wins (and a few stumbles) that shaped his strategy.
(06:45) – Scaling Hudson: Volume, Vision, and Velocity
Why Hudson isn’t afraid of size — and how scale changes everything.
(09:20) – The Balance Between Mission and Margin
How Hudson navigates affordable, middle-income, and market-rate housing while staying profitable.
(11:58) – Managing Bureaucracy and Building Public Trust
Tips for dealing with city agencies, community boards, and public scrutiny.
(14:37) – Hiring, Hustle, and Home-Grown Talent
Why David hires based on problem-solving instincts and grit over polish.
(17:05) – Policy, Politics, and Planning for What’s Next
What’s broken, what might be fixed, and how developers should adapt.
(20:23) – Staying Curious and Staying in the Game
David on longevity, leadership, and why he’s still energized by the work.
(23:12) – Advice to the Next Generation
His guidance to those who want to build — literally and figuratively.
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Top 5 Quotes from the Episode
“If you’re not solving problems, you’re not a developer — you’re just lucky.”
“We don't shy away from scale. We lean into it.”
“Affordable doesn’t mean unprofitable. You just have to understand the levers.”
“You need a high tolerance for bureaucracy if you’re going to build in New York.”
“Real estate’s not about perfection. It’s about progress and persistence.”
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Links
YouTube: https://youtu.be/xiSqXKXpKtA
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/35ZJGLT
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9
Web: https://www.jacksonlucas.com/podcast/david-kramer