In this episode of From the Ground Up with Marc Weller, Scott Plank discusses the Reston National Golf Course and the synergy between it and the surrounding Reston community. Scott and his team, along with Cornerstones and the Reston Community Center, work hard to make it more than just a golf course. Today, it has become a natural greenspace that provides many other opportunities for people, such as the newly launched Environmental Internship Program. Tune in to hear Scott talk about his experience in urban development and his dedication to upholding Bob Simon’s 7 Principles, both of which have shaped his understanding of how green spaces can be utilized to go beyond expectations by conserving natural habitats and ecosystems, improving people’s quality of life, and meeting the community’s needs.
In this episode of From the Ground Up with Marc Weller, we’re back with hosts Marc Weller and Matt Rienzo kicking it off with entrepreneur, environmentalist, and philanthropist, Scott Plank. Plank takes us through the evolution of his influential career, from his beginnings at Freddie Mac, where he started out digging ditches and swinging hammers, to managing a $1.3 billion portfolio as an asset manager in five years. After graduating from business school in the late 90s, he transitioned to Under Armour, founded by brother Kevin Plank, and helped grow the company into the robust global retailer it is today. Now, he start-ups and invests in various companies that focus on strengthening communities. Plank discusses one of his current companies, MissionGo, and the unmanned aircraft technology it manufactures to improve supply chain issues, avoid environmental threats, increase safety and sustainability, and more. From developing commercial real estate and public service programs with War Horse Cities to his focus on some of Baltimore's most significant community enhancement projects, Plank’s remarkable work leaves an imprint on the world that will be utilized for generations. Tune in for some of his favorite projects in Baltimore and the insights he’s gained. ...
David Manfredi is a legend when it comes to the architecture, design and master planning of real estate development projects. From The Grove in Los Angeles, to Boston’s revitalized Fenway neighborhood, work in Boston Landing, and The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, David’s projects are impactful, inventive, inclusive and sustainable. His firm, Elkus Manfredi Architects, specializes in mixed-use placemaking that fosters community and creative innovation, as well as strategic workplace solutions that engage users and enhance performance. Their mission, to create common ground that brings people and communities together, is one that resonates with Marc Weller. In this episode, Manfredi shares how he got his start, his outlook on what makes projects successful and the current state of cities, along with a bit of advice for young professionals. It’s a conversation that every real estate development pro will enjoy! ...
Adrian Fenty is currently a founding managing partner at MaC Venture Capital, a former advisor at Andreessen Horowitz, and served as the Mayor of Washington, D.C. from 2007-2011. During his tenure as Mayor, he took on special interests and teachers' unions, fought for accountability in government and greater opportunities for children while also overseeing a dramatic reduction in violent crime. His courage reshaped the direction of the city and is much needed in our nation today. Fenty provides his innovative approach regarding education and school systems as well as his thoughts on public housing and city revitalization. In this episode, you will truly feel Fenty's passion for politics and reform, and his #RisingTide moment is a national inspiration. ...
