Canvas with Monica Novo
Canvas is where Monica pulls back the curtain on the way the world—and the people in it—actually move.Through culture, creativity, design, entertainment, architecture, influence, and deeply human conversations, Monica explore the stories behind the people shaping what comes next.Because every life is a canvas, and every canvas has many chapters. The beautiful ones. The messy ones. The unexpected turns. Adversity, addiction, reinvention, change, loss, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.Each episode is a fresh canvas—a chance to go beyond the highlight reel and into the experiences, choices, challenges, and defining moments that make people who they are. H...
S2E8 Ferry Tales - Michael Liebowitz's Journey and the Layers of Influence
This is a story about where you come from, how far you can go, and who you become on the way.
His father drove a New York City cab. Today, Michael Liebowitz runs one of the most recognized names in luxury real estate. How does a kid from Staten Island get from there to here?
In this episode, Monica Novo takes him back to where it all began: growing up on the island, the Brooklyn years that toughened him up, and the lessons from his parents that still guide every decision he makes.<...
S2E6 The Power of Being Seen: Claudia Romo Edelman on Leadership, Identity, Representation & Global Influence
What does it take to find your voice, own your story, and turn purpose into a movement that transcends borders?
On this compelling episode of Canvas with Monica Novo, Monica sits down with global advocate and entrepreneur Claudia Romo Edelman for a powerful conversation about leadership, courage, cultural identity, and the influence of representation.
From the defining impact of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake and her mother's example of courage to founding We Are All Human and Hispanic Star, Claudia shares the experiences that shaped her mission to empower communities...
S2E5 The Real Kelly Bensimon: No Script. No Filter. No Regrets.
You think you know Kelly Bensimon? Think again.
My Fabulous Co-Host Isaac Boots and I sit down with Kelly.
From the glamorous world of modeling and fashion to the unforgettable drama of The Real Housewives of New York City, Kelly has never been one to fade into the background.
This week on Canvas with Monica Novo, joined by fabulous co-host Isaac Boots, we're pulling back the curtain on the woman behind the headlines.
We dive into fame, friendships, misconceptions, reinvention, and the moments that tested her resilience...
S2E4 Gigi Stoll From Modeling to the lens of Humanitarianism, One Frame at a Time.
From the runway to behind the lens, Gigi Stoll has built a life driven by curiosity, creativity and a deep desire to give back.
In this episode of Canvas, Gigi joins Monica Novo to talk about her evolution from international model to photographer, the influence of her mentor Flo Fox, and how the camera became far more than a creative outlet—it became a way to connect, document and make a difference.
Gigi opens up about her humanitarian work, the experiences that have taken her around the world, and her passion for using her lens to...
S1E12 From Ricky’s to Retail Empire: The Man Behind a Billion-Dollar Obsession Spirit Halloween
From the gritty, anything-goes days of Ricky’s NYC to the nationwide takeover of Spirit Halloween, this episode dives into the evolution of retail as experience. We unpack the rise, the fall, and the unexpected rebirth of Halloween as a cultural and commercial phenomenon—plus what it really takes to build a pop-up empire at scale.
Ricky’s walked…
so Spirit could run.
NYC chaos → national takeover.
The rise.
The fall.
The pop-up empire.
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S2E3 The Power of Becoming a “Margot Woman” Simone Silverman on Reinvention, Style & the Women We Become
Some women don’t reinvent themselves. They simply keep becoming.
On this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, we sit down with Simone Silverman Australian-born model, creative, storyteller, and the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Margot Magazine.
Simone has lived on both sides of the lens. She knows what it feels like to be seen, and she’s spent years learning how to truly see other people.
We talk about her journey from Sydney and the fashion world to creating Margot—a magazine celebrating women, individuality, curiosity and the beauty of evolving at every...
The Power of Becoming a “Margot Woman” Simone Silverman on Reinvention, Style & the Women We Become
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Some women don’t reinvent themselves. They simply keep becoming.
On this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, we sit down with Simone Silverman Australian-born model, creative, storyteller, and the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Margot Magazine.
Simone has lived on both sides of the lens. She knows what it feels like to be seen, and she’s spent years learning how to truly see other people.
We talk about her journey from Sydney and the fashion world to creating Margot—a magazine celebrating women, individuality, curiosity and the beauty...
The Power of Becoming a “Margot Woman” Simone Silverman on Reinvention, Style & the Women We Become
Send us Fan Mail
Some women don’t reinvent themselves. They simply keep becoming.
On this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, we sit down with Simone Silverman Australian-born model, creative, storyteller, and the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Margot Magazine.
Simone has lived on both sides of the lens. She knows what it feels like to be seen, and she’s spent years learning how to truly see other people.
We talk about her journey from Sydney and the fashion world to creating Margot—a magazine celebrating women, individuality, curiosity and the beauty...
S2E2 Are We Losing the Human Touch? — Jana Friedman of Reddit on AI, Authenticity & the Future of Connection.
AI is changing everything—but is it actually bringing us closer together, or quietly pushing us further apart?
As artificial intelligence takes center stage in nearly every conversation about the future, Monica Novo sits down with Jana Friedman of Reddit to ask a bigger question: What happens to human connection when technology becomes more human than ever?
From the evolution of digital communities and the explosive rise of AI to authenticity, culture, leadership, and the future of platforms like Reddit and Pinterest, Jana of...
S2E1 Click. Create. Repeat - How Vision Is the New Currency with Andrew Werner
Click. Create. Repeat. It's more than a process—it's a mindset.
What does it really take to build a brand people remember? This week on Canvas with Novo Collective, photographer, entrepreneur, and brand advisor Andrew Werner pulls back the curtain on a career built through vision, reinvention, and relentless creativity.
From capturing powerful images behind the lens to creating his signature flower pins and helping individuals and companies define who they are, Andrew shares why vision has become today's most valuable currency.
This isn't just a conversation ab...
S1E17 The Boy Behind the Man: Eric Rutherford on Trauma, Addiction and the Courage to Be Seen
In the Season Finally I sit down with Eric Rutherford and talk about behind the style, confidence, and success is a deeply personal story of survival, healing, and reinvention.
In this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, Eric Rutherford opens up about childhood trauma, addiction, coming out to his parents, rejection, insecurity, and the lasting impact of experiences that began when he was only five years old. He also shares how he turned adversity into strength, built a successful career in fashion and entertainment, and continues to navigate healing, love, and self-acceptance every day.
An...
S1E16 Rob Garrett Smith - Phluid Project - From Fashion Executive to Change Maker
What happens when success is no longer enough?
On this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, Monica Novo sits down with Robert Garrett Smith—fashion executive, philanthropist, founder of The Phluid Project, and champion for authenticity.
From navigating the corporate fashion world to creating a movement centered on inclusion, identity, and human connection, Rob shares the moments that challenged him, shaped him, and inspired him to give back. We also dive into Burning Man, reinvention, purpose, and why being unapologetically yourself may be the greatest success of all.
This is a conversation about co...
S1E15 Isaac Boots TORCH’D - Reinvention, Resilience & The Movement That Changed Everything
From adversity and uncertainty to becoming one of the most recognizable wellness voices in the world during COVID, Isaac Boots transformed movement into a global phenomenon.
But this conversation goes far beyond fitness.
On this episode of Canvas, Monica sits down with Isaac to talk about discipline, identity, love, creativity, philanthropy, surviving difficult chapters, and how purpose became the driving force behind his success. From TORCH’D classes and celebrity culture to Food Bank For NYC, the arts, and life with husband Jeffrey — this is Isaac like you’ve never heard him before.
Raw, i...
S1E14 Sobriety, Success & the Second Act with Jonathan R. Stein
On this episode of Canvas, I sit down with Jonathan Stein for a conversation that goes far beyond real estate.
From private equity to touring with a band, to becoming a powerhouse in luxury real estate, Jonathan opens up about reinvention, discipline, identity, addiction, and the realities of rebuilding yourself while operating at a high level.
This episode is about more than success.
It’s about evolution.
The masks we wear, the battles we fight privately, and who we become in the process.
A ra...
S1E13 20 Years In: Power, Perception & the People Behind the Narrative; How Stephen Larkin Shapes the Story of Real Estate
In this episode of Canvas with Novo Collective, I sit down with Stephen Larkin, Head of PR at Douglas Elliman, to explore the power behind perception in real estate. From our early days in the industry to today’s culture-driven market, we unpack how narrative, branding, and influence shape not just listings—but the entire conversation.
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S1E11 Lights, Listings, Action - Selling the City, Jade Chan Owning the Real Story & Success
In this episode, Monica sits down with Jade Chan of Douglas Elliman—and trust me, she didn’t just move from California to New York… she made an entrance. From navigating the concrete jungle to carving out her space in luxury new development, Jade shares the real story behind the highlight reel (yes, including her time on Netflix’s Selling the City).
It’s equal parts hustle, heart, and a little bit of “figure it out as you go”—with sharp insights on staying authentic in a world that loves a polished façade. If you’ve ever wondered what...
S1E10 Women Who Build, Accountability is the New Power & the Mid-Atlantic
Summary
In this episode, Monica Novo and Franklyn Salas discuss the real estate market trends, the expansion of the NOVO Collective into the Mid-Atlantic, and the importance of accountability and women's empowerment. They share insights on market dynamics, legal issues, and societal progress.
Key Topics
Mid-Atlantic market expansion
Real estate market trends in 2025
Legal accountability and justice
Women's empowerment and leadership
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From Finance to Founder: Ben Dixon’s Real Estate Playbook
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In this episode, we sat down with Ben Dixon to talk about his transition from the world of finance into New York City real estate and how that analytical background shaped his strategy, client advisory style, and team-building approach. Ben shared how starting on an established team gave him the structure, deal flow, and mentorship needed to understand the nuances of the market before taking the leap to launch Dixon Advisory.
We discussed the mindset shift from being a high-performing team member to becoming a team leader—covering recruiting, branding, sy...
S1E8 Super Bowl, Hangovers & Doorman Disclosures
In this engaging conversation, Franklyn Salas and Monica Novo discuss various topics ranging from the current real estate market trends to their personal experiences with snow and the recent Super Bowl. They delve into the significance of doormen in New York City, sharing anecdotes that highlight their roles as gatekeepers and sources of valuable information. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of home buying, including the feelings of regret and anxiety that can accompany such a significant investment. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of community, kindness, and the unique experiences that come with living in...
S1E7 Softer Living - The Engineered Calm
In this engaging conversation, Monica and Franklyn shares their experiences and insights on the evolving landscape of urban living, particularly in New York and Florida. They discusses the rise of luxury rentals and the amenities that cater to a lifestyle of convenience and comfort, reflecting a shift in how people view homeownership. Monica and Franklyn highlight the appeal of renting, especially for those seeking a hassle-free lifestyle, and how modern buildings are now offering services that enhance the living experience, such as concierge services and wellness facilities. The discussion also touches on the cultural differences in lifestyle choices, particularly...
S1E6 Entering 2026 with Intention and Purpose
As 2026 begins, Monica Novo and Franklyn dive into a candid conversation about a real estate market that’s anything but boring. They explore the importance of setting clear intentions for the year ahead, decoding market trends, and navigating the ongoing quirks of the rental landscape. Along the way, they underscore a timeless truth in real estate: first impressions matter—sometimes more than people expect. Blending practical insights with personal anecdotes, the duo reflects on the mindset, motivation, and strategy required to buy and sell smart in a complex market—proving that success in real estate is part preparation, part perspe...
S1E5 Architecture, Affluence, and the Art of the New York Skyline
In this holiday episode, Monica and Franklyn sit down for a wide-ranging conversation on real estate, architecture, travel, and the rhythms of New York City at year’s end.
They reflect on the recent passing of architectural icons Robert A.M. Stern and Frank Gehry, exploring how their work shaped the New York skyline and redefined luxury living. From timeless prewar-inspired towers to bold, expressive modern forms, the conversation looks at how design influences not just buildings—but cities, culture, and value.
The episode also touches on current market momentum in New York real estate, holi...
S1E4 The Emotional Math of Real Estate, Relationships, and Timing
In this episode, Monica and Franklyn dive into the emotional math that drives both real estate decisions and human behavior. Starting with holiday chaos and perfectionism at home, the conversation quickly shifts into how emotions show up in buying, selling, pricing, and decision-making.
They unpack:
Why buyers hesitate even when a property checks every boxWhy sellers cling to upgrades and nostalgia instead of compsWhy waiting for “perfect timing” sabotages people in real estate—and lifeWhy the first offer isn’t always the best offer, but the best offer is often the one you miss...S1E3 Celebrity Adjacent
Exploring the celebrity real estate scene in NYC is a wild ride! From Tribeca to Williamsburg, stars seek privacy and a slice of normal life despite their fame. Navigating this world means balancing the demands of celebs and their teams while keeping everything under wraps. It's all about trust and respect. Plus, NYC's private members' clubs are the new hotspots for stars seeking exclusivity. Whether it's Soho House or Casa Cipriani, these venues offer a haven away from the public eye. Real estate here is more than transactions; it's about relationships and trust.
#NYCRealEstate #C...
S1E2 Unlisted Moments
A polished listing never tells the whole truth. In Unlisted Moments, Monica and Franklyn peel back the curtain on the chaos, comedy, and human stories that unfold long before anything hits the market. From near-disasters to emotional math, this episode sets the tone for the raw, unfiltered world behind the canvas.
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S1E1 Introducing Monica & Franklyn
In this opening episode, Monica and Franklyn set the stage for Canvas—how it started, why they’re doing it, and what this space is really meant to be. No scripts, no personas. Just the two of them unpacking the conversations they already have behind the scenes: about culture, creativity, design, influence, energy, and the moments that shape how we see the world.
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