Episode 84

Lessons from Wall Street to Real Estate with Ellen Silverman

On today’s Performance Mindset podcast, Amy sits down with Ellen Silverman, a New York City native who transitioned into real estate after a long career in banking and finance. After the 2008 banking crisis, Ellen’s work became more regulatory, and in 2016, she obtained her real estate license and transitioned into residential real estate. Ellen is a Compass agent, and since beginning her second career, she’s learned a lot of lessons surrounding mindset, entrepreneurship, and focus.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  1. The New York City real estate market and why Ellen Silverman believes the transaction activity has increased.
  2. Ellen’s background as a fourth-generation New Yorker and the difference in lifestyle from other locations in the country.
  3. Her career background in banking and finance and why she pivoted to real estate in 2016.
  4. The benefits of entrepreneurship and the importance of setting boundaries with your time.
  5. Tuning out the news and political noise to stay focused.
  6. Where Ellen finds leads and the money that it costs to market and be in business.
  7. The difference between a coop and a condo and who they suit best.
  8. Rules coops can set that condos don’t have.
  9. One of the most surprising parts of transitioning from Wall Street to real estate.
  10. Ellen’s goals for 2025 and her advice for would-be entrepreneurs.

Connect with Amy Calandrino here:

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Amy Calandrino

Connect with Ellen Silverman:

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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.