Real Estate Forum Podcast S3E5: Inside New York’s Biggest Real Estate Deals with Jonathan Mechanic

Published on October 28, 2026

Inside New York’s Biggest Real Estate Deals with Jonathan Mechanic

Jonathan Mechanic, Chairman of the Real Estate Department at Fried Frank and incoming Chair of the Real Estate Board of New York, joins the Real Estate Forum Podcast as the show’s first guest from the legal profession. Hosted by Raphael Sidelsky, Jonathan shares his perspective on deal-making, the evolution of New York City real estate, and the legal and business considerations behind some of the city’s most significant transactions.

Jonathan reflects on his path from litigation to becoming one of New York’s leading real estate lawyers and discusses his work on landmark projects including Hudson Yards, Manhattan West, 350 Park Avenue, and the transformation of 25 Water Street. He also looks ahead to his tenure at REBNY, discussing housing development, industry priorities, and the importance of public-private collaboration.

The conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the skills and relationships that drive successful real estate deals, as well as Jonathan’s perspective on how AI and other changes will shape the practice of real estate law.

Watch on YouTube here.

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The Real Estate Forum podcast is produced by The Podcast Consultant with special thanks to Executive Producer Maria Fera.

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