Episode 65

Consistency, Focus, and Relationship-Building in NYC Real Estate with Cory Zelnik

On this episode of the Performance Mindset podcast, Amy interviews Cory Zelnik, founder and CEO of Zelnik & Company, a boutique retail brokerage based in New York City. Cory has decades of experience in the retail real estate market and has successfully built a reputation for delivering outstanding results to tenants and landlords in one of the most competitive markets in the world. Cory uses a relationship-driven approach and combines traditional networking with cutting-edge social media to stay ahead in the retail industry. He is passionate about fitness, particularly running, and he mirrors his commitment to maintaining balance and discipline in his personal and professional lives. In addition to his real estate business, Cory hosts the podcast REtail REdux, where he shares insights on the evolving retail real estate world.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Cory Zelnik’s entry into real estate, career development, and the path he took to start his own firm.
  2. How the ability to pivot allows him to remain independent.
  3. Some of the challenges of working in the New York City market.
  4. Upcoming submarkets in the NYC area and the resurgence of luxury brands post-COVID.
  5. The differences between European and U.S. brands.
  6. Managing the end of a lease with clients and why retail condominiums are big in NYC.
  7. Relationship-building and leveraging social media in real estate.
  8. Cory’s involvement in marathons beginning after the pandemic to raise money for ALS.
  9. The importance of discipline and consistent levels of customer service with all clients.
  10. What’s next for Cory Zelnik.

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Amy Calandrino

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About the Podcast

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The Performance Mindset Show
Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.

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About your host

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Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.