The Walker Webcast

Isaac Boltansky, Managing Director and Director of Policy Research at BTIG, delves into the intricate dance of finance and politics. He predicts shifts in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's privatization, while addressing the impact of border security on immigration policy. Isaac discusses the evolving landscape of consumer finance and the implications of recent election outcomes on governance. The conversation also touches on the rising interest in digital assets like Bitcoin and the upcoming tax policy challenges, highlighting the interconnection between economic strategies and political dynamics.

Join Jay Parsons, Principal and Head of Investment Strategy at Madera Residential, as he shares his deep insights into the multifamily market. He reflects on the 2024 rental landscape, addressing rising interest rates, inflation, and the Fed's policies. Jay discusses the recent St. Paul rent cap's unintended consequences on construction and affordability. He also offers strategies for maintaining occupancy amidst new supply and analyzes the differences between Sunbelt and coastal markets. Dive into his economic outlook and understand the complexities of current housing challenges!

Ryan Marshall, President and CEO of PulteGroup, Inc., leads one of America's largest home builders. In this engaging conversation, he discusses the ever-evolving housing market and the company’s pivot towards value creation after the financial crisis. Ryan reveals insights on the challenges of rising costs, buyer demographics, and the urgent need for more housing supply. He shares his personal journey to CEO and emphasizes the importance of fostering a team-first culture while exploring lucrative markets like Denver and Salt Lake.

Frans Johansson, a bestselling author and entrepreneur known for his insights on innovation and diversity, shares his journey of developing an agile mindset. He reflects on his childhood experiences that shaped his understanding of cultural differences and the importance of diverse perspectives. The conversation delves into how playing Dungeons and Dragons fosters creativity, the impact of AI on business adaptability, and the necessity of inclusive teams for driving innovation. Frans emphasizes that successful ideas often emerge from combining existing concepts and learning from diverse viewpoints.

Ginni Rometty, former IBM CEO, discusses the synergy between innovation and risk-taking in leadership. Gloria Steinem shares insights on the power of self-esteem and connection, while Stephanie Linnartz emphasizes the critical support needed for young female athletes. Christina Wallace advocates for a portfolio life approach to balance career and personal aspirations. Mary Erdoes highlights market sentiment and risk management in asset management, paving the way for a conversation on effective leadership and empowering women in various fields.

David Petraeus, a retired four-star U.S. Army general and former CIA director, shares his extensive insights on global power dynamics and geopolitical tensions. He discusses the shifting landscape post-9/11, emphasizing the rise of great power rivalries and regionalism. Petraeus delves into U.S.-China relations, technological innovations in warfare, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also highlights how military strategies can be applied to business leadership, emphasizing adaptability under pressure and the importance of teamwork in high-stakes environments.

Marc Ganzi, CEO of DigitalBridge, dives into the intricacies of the digital infrastructure landscape. With over 25 years of experience, he discusses his unique path merging telecommunications and real estate. The conversation highlights the evolution of mobile technology from 1G to 5G and the rise of small cell networks. Ganzi also addresses the critical balance between public and private cloud solutions, the environmental impact of data centers, and the competitive AI race, emphasizing the importance of data security for innovation.

Fernando De Leon, Founder and CEO of Leon Capital Group, shares insights from his impressive journey, from a humble upbringing as the youngest of six to leading a $10 billion portfolio. He discusses the importance of cultural roots, entrepreneurial spirit, and overcoming obstacles in his career. De Leon reveals how he pivoted his real estate focus from distressed retail to thriving industrial properties driven by e-commerce. He also highlights the significance of teamwork in multifamily developments and the role of technology in shaping future growth strategies.

Dr. Peter Linneman, a leading economist and Professor Emeritus at The Wharton School of Business, dives into the complexities of today’s economic landscape. He discusses how political narratives clash with actual data, highlighting the need for objective metrics in investment decisions. Dr. Linneman also examines consumer confidence versus economic indicators, sheds light on U.S. debt dynamics, and analyzes the effects of rising interest rates on various sectors. Listen to his unique predictions for the economy and learn how upcoming elections could influence the workplace.

Mike Johnston, the Mayor of Denver, and Egon Terplan, an urban policy strategist, dive deep into Denver's post-pandemic urban revitalization. They discuss the critical challenges of homelessness and crime, highlighting innovative housing solutions and community strategies. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on urban safety and planning, alongside the city's shift toward reindustrialization. With an eye on the future, they explore the urgent need for accessible housing and the revitalization of public transit to enhance urban living.