In this episode of Block by Block, Paul Massey sits down with Elaine Kleinberg, General Counsel of the Battery Park City Authority, and a veteran leader in New York’s commercial real estate world. Elaine shares her unconventional path into the industry: from construction litigation to senior legal and management roles at PwC, CBRE, and Newmark.

The conversation dives into two major themes: leadership and women in real estate. Elaine reflects on finding her own path without mentors, growing into a trusted manager and certified coach, and the importance of vulnerability, communication, and mentorship in building strong organizations. Paul and Elaine trade stories about servant leadership, the culture of commercial real estate in the 1990s, and how true leaders create legacies by empowering others.

The episode also tackles gender diversity in the industry. Elaine discusses the barriers women still face, how groups like WX are creating support networks, and why resilience, preparation, and respect are essential for women breaking into commercial brokerage and leadership roles.

This episode is about more than just career lessons; it highlights how self-awareness, courage, and authenticity drive lasting success, and why coaching and mentorship are as transformative for leaders as they are for those they guide.