Building More Than Buildings: Ed Russo on Vision, Risk, and Legacy

Imagine putting every dollar you've saved on the line for your very first business deal at just 24 years old. Could you handle that pressure? Ed Russo did, and it turned out to be the best decision he ever made.

On this episode of my podcast, I’m with Ed Russo, my good friend and CEO of Russo Development, one of New Jersey's top real estate firms. Ed shares behind-the-scenes stories packed with valuable lessons, starting with the unexpected ways childhood chores shaped his business mindset.

Ed talks about how Russo Development accidentally discovered the huge potential in data centers, a lucky twist that skyrocketed their business. He also reveals why the company chose to build apartment communities in overlooked neighborhoods, transforming them and bringing new life to these areas.
Get ready for some raw honesty as Ed walks us through a challenging project that nearly made him back down. Instead, facing his doubts head-on changed his entire approach to business and risk.

But it’s not all serious. Ed’s love for fishing and family adventures on the water highlights how keeping life fun and balanced makes success even sweeter.
Don’t miss Ed's practical, no-nonsense advice for anyone wanting to dive into real estate: focus on one thing, master it, and build step by step.

If you’re curious how big decisions get made, how people stay grounded while chasing big goals, and what it really takes to build something that lasts, this episode is worth your time.


Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Ed Russo and Russo Development
03:03 - The Influence of Family on Work Ethic
05:49 - Early Career Decisions and Family Business Dynamics
08:53 - Lessons from Early Deals and Risk Taking
12:04 - Transitioning into Data Centers and New Opportunities
17:54 - Pivoting to Residential Development
24:09 - Building a Diverse and Skilled Team
30:01 - Challenges in Residential Development
30:21 - Building in Underserved Communities
32:42 - The Vermella Brand and Community Impact
35:40 - Overcoming Challenges in Development
38:59 - The Importance of Mentorship
46:31 - Finding Balance: Fishing and Life
50:12 - Opportunities in Real Estate for Young Professionals


Ed on Socials:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-russo-9ba77b36/

Jon on Socials:
IG: @thejonschultzpodcast
X: @JonSchultzPod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-jon-schultz-podcast
www.jonschultz.com