In this episode of Place Shapers, host Todd Fidelman welcomes Neil Kumar, seasoned real estate developer and strategic mind behind some of the most thoughtfully designed communities in the D.C. region. Together, they unpack the virtues that drive long-term development—courage, patience, and intelligence—and which truly deserves the captain’s seat when building for the future. From navigating decade-long entitlement processes to redefining suburban spaces with bold yet grounded design, Neil shares candid insights on risk, reward, and restraint.

The conversation dives deep into shifting renter demographics, why suburban cool is having a moment, and the underestimated power of storytelling in shaping spaces people love. Whether you're in branding, development, or just fascinated by how places come to life, this episode is a masterclass in creative foresight and practical wisdom.

It’s a thoughtful, spirited conversation about shaping not just places—but expectations.

Merrick Studios’ full-service live and virtual podcasting solutions empower “artists” of their trade to reach, educate and inspire new audiences with ease. Our thematic direction amplifies their message, production and editing capture and shape it, and hosting and distribution delivers truly engaging stories to thousands through a popularized medium that has become invaluable. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as marketing and monetizing podcasts grows them into hardworking, growth-oriented br

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

From metro-topping towers to campus-cool student digs, John Clarkson has seen (and steered) residential developments of every size and shape. As Senior Managing Director for Greystar Development Services, he leads innovative, landscape-shifting projects across the Mid-Atlantic—and still finds time to geek out over site plans and Spanish poetry. Join us as John shares inspirational wisdom gained over years of dedication to his craft.

In this episode of Place Shapers, John pulls back the construction fencing on:

• Creative deal-making – how bold vision + relentless collaboration turn raw dirt into vibrant communities.
• Trusting teamwork – how hyper-local teams empower one another and projects to new heights.
• Leadership agility – what it really takes to rally architects, investors, city officials, and next-door neighbors around a shared dream.
• Property-management power moves – the surprising, make-or-break factor after the ribbon-cutting.
• Arlington’s Courthouse transformation – from Wendy’s to The Wendy and more neighborhood game-changing moves.
• Career compass points – straight-shooting advice to inspire the rising developers ready to shape tomorrow’s places.

Whether you’re an urbanist, a prop-tech founder, or just curious about the recipe for great, from-scratch neighborhoods, hit play and let John guide you through the highs, hurdles, and hidden thrills of development. Hard hats optional—big ideas required.

Merrick Studios’ full-service live and virtual podcasting solutions empower “artists” of their trade to reach, educate and inspire new audiences with ease. Our thematic direction amplifies their message, production and editing capture and shape it, and hosting and distribution delivers truly engaging stories to thousands through a popularized medium that has become invaluable. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as marketing and monetizing podcasts grows them into hardworking, growth-oriented br

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

In this special conversation, host Todd Fidelman welcomes advertising veteran Harry Merrick for a compelling conversation about the evolution of marketing, leadership, and legacy. As the co-founder of Merrick Towle—now Merrick Creative—Harry helped shape one of the real estate industry’s most influential creative agencies. Though recently retired after 40 years at the helm, Harry continues to support the firm in an advisory capacity.

Harry reflects on four decades of creative innovation, the art of building lasting client relationships, and the bold campaigns that left a mark on the industry. He also shares his perspective on how technology has transformed the advertising landscape, and what the next chapter holds for real estate marketing.

A true storyteller with wisdom to spare, Harry’s insights are a must-listen for anyone passionate about placemaking, branding, or building something that lasts.

Merrick Studios’ full-service live and virtual podcasting solutions empower “artists” of their trade to reach, educate and inspire new audiences with ease. Our thematic direction amplifies their message, production and editing capture and shape it, and hosting and distribution delivers truly engaging stories to thousands through a popularized medium that has become invaluable. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as marketing and monetizing podcasts grows them into hardworking, growth-oriented br

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.