Built on Hustle: Desiree Russo on Leadership, Growth, and People-First Operations
In a recent conversation on the Commercial Construction & Renovation Coffee Talk Podcast with David Corson, Desiree Russo, Co-Founder and SVP at MasonMade Ventures, shares how growing up in a close-knit Italian family shaped her entrepreneurial mindset and why integrity, consistency, and discipline still guide her leadership today.
Entrepreneurship Begins at Home
For Desiree Russo, Co-Founder and Senior Vice President at MasonMade Ventures, leadership didn’t start in a boardroom. It started at home. Growing up in a tight-knit Italian family on Long Island, she watched her father build a transportation business from a single van into a thriving operation.
His example of discipline, consistency, and freedom through hard work left a lasting imprint. “His words to me were always aligned with his actions,” Desiree shared, noting how that integrity shaped her own entrepreneurial mindset.
In a recent interview with David Corson of Commercial Construction Coffee Talk, Desiree shares her insights and encouragement for leaders who are seeking to thrive in an ever-changing business climate.
Learning Every Role, Earning Every Step
Desiree’s professional journey began at Empire Facilities Management, where she entered the industry with little prior knowledge but a willingness to learn. “I’ve held every position from coordinator to my current SVP role,” she said, emphasizing the value of understanding operations from the ground up.
That hands-on progression gave her a deep appreciation for team dynamics, accountability, and mentorship; elements that continue to guide her leadership today
Weathering Change with Progress Over Perfection
Like many leaders, Desiree faced major challenges during the pandemic, including an abrupt shift to remote operations. While the transition wasn’t easy, adaptability became the key to survival and growth.
“The mindset really was…progress over perfection,” she shared. That philosophy allowed her teams to move forward despite uncertainty, expand talent pools beyond geography, and ultimately emerge stronger. The experience reshaped how MasonMade thinks about work, flexibility, and sustainable scaling
Looking Ahead with Hustle and Purpose
As the industry evolves with AI, hybrid work models, and new operational tools, Desiree remains grounded in the belief that people will always matter most. She views technology as a support system, not a replacement, and sees the future as an opportunity to work smarter while staying connected.
When asked to leave listeners with a final thought, she offered a line that perfectly captures her journey: “The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately” (George "GK" Koufalis). It’s a reminder that vision requires action and that lasting success is built one disciplined step at a time.
Watch Desiree's interview on the Commercial Construction & Renovation Podcast.