Livabl Launch

Episode 18: Gary Switzer (MOD Developments)

In this episode of Livabl Launch, Matthew sits down with Gary Switzer, the award-winning founder and CEO of MOD Developments, to talk about what it really means to build a city. We dive into his move to living in a condo, his early days in architecture and planning, his transition into development, and what inspired him to create some of Toronto’s most iconic buildings.
Gary shares how European city-building has influenced his work, what role architects should play in shaping urban spaces, and his advice to young people entering the industry today. We also talk about MOD’s bold design philosophy, what excites him about the future of housing, and whether Toronto is doing enough to support good urbanism.

Episode 17: Tim Ng

In this episode of Livabl Launch, host Matthew Slutsky sits down with Tim Ng, the visionary founder of adHOC studio and Blackline, for a wide-ranging conversation on how technology, storytelling, and bold design thinking are reshaping the built environment.
With clients across North America and a passion for pushing boundaries, Tim explains how the studio has become a go-to partner for developers looking to sell a vision, not just a floor plan.
Matt and Tim talk about the role of design in human connection, the future of architectural storytelling, and how visual tools—from photorealistic renderings to virtual experiences—are influencing how we understand and experience new communities before a single shovel hits the ground. They explore the importance of collaboration between creatives and developers, and the need to challenge outdated norms within the real estate and construction industries.
Whether you're fascinated by the intersection of design and tech, or curious about how the future of real estate is being shaped by creators like Tim, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Episode 16: Justin Bobier

Join Matt and Justin as they explore the future state of home building in the province, including the potential for online buying and the importance of physical sales centers. They also discuss the transformation of Calgary's economy and current trends in the luxury home segment, including the growing demand for secondary suites and changing demographics of homebuyers.

Episode 15: Cara Hirsch

Tune in as Cara and Matt chat all things real estate investment – from Calgary’s hot market to some of the challenges facing investors and developers in Ontario.

Episode 14: Jake Cohen

Founded in 1984, Daniels Corporation sets itself apart by prioritizing people and sustainability in urban development. Join Matt as he chats with COO Jake Cohen about all things branding, diversification and financing in Toronto's real estate industry.

Episode 13: Pouyan Safapour

What if Torontonians saw condos as livable, sustainable long-term homes? What if the word 'end user' didn't strike fear into the hearts of developers anymore? What's the difference between selling a promise versus selling a product? 
Pouyan Safapour, president and co-founder of Devron Developments wants to change Toronto's condo industry from the ground up, ensuring responsible building that strengthens communities becomes the new norm. 
Join Matt and Pouyan as they discuss everything from the upcoming launch of Devron's 101 Spadina, to changing perceptions of condo living in Toronto's notorious pre-sale market. 

Episode 12: Rob Spanier

Rob is an expert placemaker, so who better to ask about what the future of liveable, connected communities look like? 
Join Matt and Rob as they chat all things new launches, community-building and the art of placemaking. 

Episode 11: Stephanie Lane

The latest episode of the Livabl Launch Podcast features an exclusive interview with Stephanie Lane, Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Geranium.
Stephanie’s sales and marketing experience has led to sell-out success of numerous high- and low-rise residential communities across Ontario, totalling over $2 billion in sales revenue.
Tune in to listen to Stephanie and Matt chat about everything from market trends to whether you should buy a home with a sidewalk.

Episode 10: Pauline Lierman

What's happening with those 1.5 million homes we're supposed to build by 2031? What about condo unit sizes? Are our homes getting smaller? 
Matthew Slutsky asks Pauline Lierman of Zonda Urban for answers in the latest episode of the Livabl Launch podcast. 

Episode 9: Jeremiah Shamess

The latest episode of the Livabl Launch podcast features an enlightening chat with Jeremiah Shamess, founder of Colliers Private Capital Investment Group.