Beyond the Resume Podcast with Emily Kurtz (How Curiosity Built My Career)

Beyond the Resume

YouTube: https://youtu.be/86yt8WvdBr8 • Spotify: https://bit.ly/4oUQ62r

In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Resume, hosts Chris Papa and Lisa Flicker sit down with Emily Kurtz, Chief Housing & Development Officer at RiseBoro Community Partnership, to explore her 20-year journey in affordable housing and community development. Emily shares how a sociology degree and a curiosity for cities led her to urban planning, and eventually to leading one of New York’s most impactful housing organizations.

They discuss the evolution of RiseBoro, the realities of nonprofit housing development, and the personal balance required to thrive in mission-driven work. Emily also reflects on mentorship, leadership, and how organizations like Women in Housing and Finance have shaped her career.

If you’re passionate about affordable housing, career growth in the nonprofit sector, or finding purpose in your work, this episode delivers real-world lessons and personal insight.

Chapters

(02:23) RiseBoro’s Mission and Community Roots

(05:13) From Tenant Advocacy to Housing Development

(07:48) Emily’s Path from Sociology to Urban Planning

(10:15) Career Lessons: From IBM to Affordable Housing

(13:20) Finding Fulfillment Through Curiosity and Adaptability

(19:56) Breaking into Nonprofit Real Estate

(21:21) The Challenges Facing Affordable Housing in NYC

(23:38) The Human Cost of Federal Cuts and SNAP Benefits

(26:45) Leadership, Mentorship, and Building Strong Teams

(30:01) Parenting, Perspective, and Career Growth

(31:45) Book & Podcast Recommendations

(32:09) Work-Life Balance and Daily Rituals

(33:21) What Emily Looks for When Hiring

(34:58) Final Reflections: Mission, Community, and Resilience

YouTube: https://youtu.be/86yt8WvdBr8

Spotify: https://bit.ly/4oUQ62r

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9

Web: https://www.jacksonlucas.com/podcast/emily-kurtz