2024 Ones to Watch Rising Stars: Gene Goldstein-Plesser, Denham Wolf Real Estate Services

“This year, Gene spearheaded the analysis of a potential deal structure for a local nonprofit. His work evaluated the viability of a partnership with a nearby community-serving nonprofit, which would allow the organization to provide additional services to the community while creating a sustainable income stream that supports its mission.” - Paul Wolf, Managing Principal, CEO, and President at Denham Wolf Real Estate Services.

Who are the key people in your life that have contributed to your success? Two people jump to mind – Dr. Sandy Zipp, my thesis advisor in college, who got me excited about studying the built environment of cities, and Jeffryn Stephens, the artistic director of the youth community theater group in my hometown who taught me that all the world really is a stage.

How do you balance your rising career with your personal life? I live in a communal home with five others, so I’m often wrapped up in time-consuming house projects. To make sure I still meet my obligations at Denham Wolf, I’m a believer in setting clear expectations with both colleagues and friends/family and over-communicating when it comes to navigating work-life balance.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of your passions or hobbies? In addition to helping nonprofits meet their real estate goals, I love organizing and hosting open mic events in my home and even performing in them. Outside of New York, I love backcountry hiking and getting to know new cities through “derives” – destination-less wanders through the urban landscape.

Outside of your career, where else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth? I am an active member of my local Jewish community, and regularly seek out opportunities to learn more about the wisdom traditions in my heritage as well as gain new ritual skills. I also dabble in playing klezmer accordion and love opportunities to play new music with friends.