In this episode of Place Shapers our host, Todd Fidelman, sits down with Noel Carson, VP of Marketing and Creative Director at Bozzuto, to explore how genuine connection and thoughtful design shape every experience — from brand storytelling to the feeling of home.

They discuss balancing creativity and consistency, building emotional resonance in multifamily spaces, and how art, design, and even scent can define a brand. Noel also shares his perspective on the evolving role of creativity in real estate and the fine line between innovation and authenticity.

A conversation for anyone shaping places, or brands, that forge genuine human connection.

Send us a text

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on Place Shapers, producer-turned-guest-host Ryan Strohl sits down with friend and former colleague, Joanne King—a legend behind the scenes whose agency career spanned decades, disciplines, and more than a few unforgettable moments.

From fax machines and paste-up boards to brand launches and operational wizardry, Joanne shares the evolution of agency life through her sharp wit and sharper instincts. She opens up about the long-term client who followed her across five jobs, the high-rise that changed Quincy MA, and the email that accidentally offered spankings to the entire office. Yes, really.

It’s a heartfelt, hilarious ride through a storied career—with lessons in leadership, loyalty, and the power of being just nosy enough.

Merrick Studios’ full-service live and virtual podcasting solutions empower “artists” of their trade to reach, educate and inspire new audiences with ease. Our thematic direction amplifies their message, production and editing capture and shape it, and hosting and distribution delivers truly engaging stories to thousands through a popularized medium that has become invaluable. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as marketing and monetizing podcasts grows them into hardworking, growth-oriented br

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Place Shapers, host Todd Fidelman welcomes Neil Kumar, seasoned real estate developer and strategic mind behind some of the most thoughtfully designed communities in the D.C. region. Together, they unpack the virtues that drive long-term development—courage, patience, and intelligence—and which truly deserves the captain’s seat when building for the future. From navigating decade-long entitlement processes to redefining suburban spaces with bold yet grounded design, Neil shares candid insights on risk, reward, and restraint.

The conversation dives deep into shifting renter demographics, why suburban cool is having a moment, and the underestimated power of storytelling in shaping spaces people love. Whether you're in branding, development, or just fascinated by how places come to life, this episode is a masterclass in creative foresight and practical wisdom.

It’s a thoughtful, spirited conversation about shaping not just places—but expectations.

Merrick Studios’ full-service live and virtual podcasting solutions empower “artists” of their trade to reach, educate and inspire new audiences with ease. Our thematic direction amplifies their message, production and editing capture and shape it, and hosting and distribution delivers truly engaging stories to thousands through a popularized medium that has become invaluable. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as marketing and monetizing podcasts grows them into hardworking, growth-oriented br

Place Shapers is hosted by Todd Fidelman, produced by Merrick Studios, the podcast production are of Merrick Creative, and available on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.