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This episode of Breaking New Ground, Dylan Goren dives into the future of real estate decision-making and how technology is changing the playbook.
In this conversation, Dylan Goren, Co-Founder & CEO of Pillar, unpacks the site selection problem that continues to frustrate developers and how automation can transform outcomes. He explains why time lost in manual processes is money left on the table, how systems thinking sharpens future project evaluations, and why technology should be seen as an enabler, not a replacement. Dylan also touches on the evolving role of zoning, the rise of open data, and why younger leaders are accelerating the industry’s adoption curve.
Key Takeaways
The Site Selection Problem: Pillar is tackling one of real estate’s most time-intensive bottlenecks.
Manual ≠ Modern: Developers still rely heavily on outdated, manual processes.
Time = Revenue: Automation can meaningfully increase speed, efficiency, and returns.
Empowering, Not Replacing: Technology should support developers, not sideline them.
Systems Thinking: Building frameworks for decisions strengthens long-term outcomes.
Tracking Matters: Documenting decisions improves evaluation of future projects.
Zoning’s Diminished Role: Less a barrier than before, zoning is no longer the central driver.
The Power of Storytelling: A strong narrative is essential when pitching stakeholders.
Open Data Shift: More accessible data is reshaping how developers analyze opportunities.
Generational Momentum: Younger leaders are pushing technology adoption forward.
Chapter Breakdown
00:00 – Introduction to Dylan Gorin and Pillar
02:14 – Why Site Selection Remains a Bottleneck
03:59 – Data Collection: From Manual to Streamlined
06:06 – The Case for Automation in Development
08:28 – Adopting a Systems-Thinking Mindset
09:56 – Why Tracking Decisions is a Strategic Edge
12:38 – The Evolution of Real Estate Processes
13:52 – Technology and Decision-Making Integration
20:29 – The Changing Weight of Zoning
22:55 – Rethinking Development Strategies in Light of Zoning
24:57 – Storytelling as a Development Tool
31:04 – Open Data and Its Impact on CRE
38:46 – Tech Fatigue in Real Estate Organizations
42:37 – How Generational Change is Shaping Leadership
Show Notes & Links
Pillar: https://www.pillar.codes/
Guest: Dylan Goren, Co-Founder & CEO of Pillar
Connect: Dylan Goren on LinkedIn
Closing Thought
This episode shows how developers are rethinking the fundamentals of site selection. Manual processes may still get projects done, but automation and systems are what create real leverage. Tracking decisions, telling the right story, and moving faster aren’t just operational upgrades—they’re the traits that will define who wins the next wave of development.
Cheers,
John
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