Episode 117

Design, Development, and Doing It Your Way with Leslie Cook

Published on: 19th November, 2025

On today’s Performance Mindset Show, Amy sits down with Leslie Cook, Regional Manager of Business Development at Cuhaci Peterson, a nationally recognized design firm incorporated in Florida that brings together a diverse team of architects, engineers, designers, planners, and support staff, all driven to make clients successful by delivering exceptional end-to-end designs with registered professionals in all 50 states. Leslie brings over 15 years of experience in construction and real estate project management to her role. She began in project management in New York City, leading complex, fast-paced projects in multifamily, retail, cultural restoration, and mixed-use development. Leslie is known for her ability to bridge technical expertise with relationship-driven strategy, helping Cuhaci Peterson grow, strengthen partnerships, and create meaningful impact through design.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Leslie Cook’s background in construction, project management, and business development, and her role today at Cuhaci Peterson.
  2. The differences between New York and Florida construction and development.
  3. Some of the more unique adaptive reuses of properties Leslie has seen.
  4. The importance of remaining authentic and honest with clients to help them find the right fit.
  5. Mentorship and creating supportive relationships with others in commercial real estate.
  6. How firms and developers can help shape more inclusive communities, and what affordable housing might look like in a community.
  7. Defining success when a partnership goes right and retaining a people-first mindset.
  8. Leslie’s tips for managing ICSC successfully.
  9. Overcoming impostor syndrome and stepping up into a role she wasn’t sure she was ready for.
  10. What travel experiences have taught her about letting go and going with the flow.

Connect with Amy Calandrino here:

Beyond Commercial - beyondcommercial.com/amy-calandrino-ccim

Amy Calandrino - linktr.ee/amycalandrino

Connect with Leslie Cook:

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/lesliemichelecook

Lafayette House - www.lafayettehousejc.com

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About the Podcast

The Performance Mindset Show
Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.
The Performance Mindset Show is where high achievers come to grow. Hosted by commercial real estate advisor, entrepreneur, and author Amy Calandrino, each episode dives into the habits, strategies, and stories that help leaders think bigger, perform better, and build meaningful success in business and life.

Amy sits down with trailblazers across commercial real estate, entrepreneurship, investing, health, and personal development to uncover how they overcame obstacles, scaled their impact, and created lives built on intention. These conversations are honest, inspiring, and filled with practical insights you can apply immediately.

Whether you're a business owner, creator, investor, or someone who wants to operate at a higher level, this show will help you strengthen your mindset, sharpen your skills, and stay focused on what matters most.

If you want to grow, you’re in the right place.

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.