8 Stories

8 Stories

By Sharon CauthenBusinessManagement
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8 Stories episodes

  • 018 - Echo Chambers, Curiosity & Listening | 8 Stories

    Breaking Out of Echo Chambers: How Curiosity Transforms Work, Life, and Politics

    Are echo chambers limiting your growth? Discover how genuine curiosity and active listening can break down barriers in work, relationships, and beyond.
    In this episode of 8 Stories, Sharon Cauthen considers the concept of echo chambers — where we fall into the trap of being surrounded by people whose ideas that reinforce our beliefs—and explores how these impact our personal lives, our work, and society at large. From online algorithms to workplace dynamics, echo chambers can trap us, stifling growth and innovation.
    Drawing inspiration from a fascinating look at literal echo chambers in Scotland and real-world scenarios, Sharon shares practical strategies to cultivate curiosity and embrace diverse perspectives. By choosing to actively listen and engage with others, we can overcome division, fuel innovation, and foster stronger, more empathetic relationships.
    Join us to discover why breaking free from echo chambers might just be the secret to a happier, more connected world. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and stay curious!
    For more insights, head to www.MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com and subscribe  @MultifamilyMediaNetwork 

    8 min
  • 017 - 8 Stories | A Multifamily Mixed Bag

    Apartment Living for Life? Exploring Low-Tech High-Touch Trends, Marketing Insights, and Building Community

    Ever thought about living as an “apartment dweller for life”? You're not alone! Today’s episode dicusses the growing appeal of lifelong renting and the marketing strategies shaping the multifamily world.
    In this lighthearted episode of 8 Stories, Sharon Cauthen and Jennifer Carter switch gears from tech and chat about a Reddit post on the virtues of lifelong renting — why more people are opting out of homeownership in favor of apartment living. They touch on how apartments today offer community-driven experiences, from book clubs to mural painting, that make renting more than just a place to live. Plus, we cover marketing strategies like branding, fostering community connections, and even the fun of quirky national holidays!
    If you’re curious about the future of multifamily living or just need some fresh marketing ideas, hit that like button and subscribe for more! We’re bringing you the latest trends and practical tips to enhance your property management game.
    Find future 8 Stories episodes  @MultifamilyMediaNetwork  or listen by searching for 8 Stories on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

    30 min
  • 016 - Sharon Cauthen - Hurricane Helene Relief

    Join the Multifamily Community for Hurricane Helene Relief | Help Us Rebuild Lives

    Imagine everything you own is suddenly gone — your home, ID, phone, and basic essentials wiped away. Now, think of the people who actually face this today. Let’s do something together.
    Hi, I'm Sharon Cauthen, co-host of the Eight Stories podcast, and today I’m reaching out not just to our multifamily industry but to everyone who can lend a hand in the wake of Hurricane Helene. This unimaginable storm has ravaged areas covered by the Upper State Apartment Association, leaving thousands of people homeless and struggling to survive. The devastation is real — entire towns wiped out, and communities isolated.
    We in the multifamily sector dedicate our lives to serving people and their homes. The need is urgent and now we’re asking for your help. By visiting www.multifamilymedianetwork.com, you can donate directly to relief efforts. Whether it’s $5 or $500, every bit helps us rebuild homes and lives. After donating, please share this message with your network— we are more powerful when we come together to make an incredible difference.
    Please, take a moment to donate today and help spread the word. Like, subscribe, and share this video to raise awareness and amplify our impact. Let’s show how strong the multifamily community truly is.

    4 min
  • 015 - Major Multifamily Tech Trends + Puppies!

    Blueprint Conference Recap: Insights, AI, and Puppies!

    Welcome to another episode of 8 Stories, brought to you by the Multifamily Media Network! I’m Sharon Cauthen, and as always, I’m joined by my amazing co-host, Jennifer Carter. Today, we’re diving into highlights from the recent Blueprint Conference in Las Vegas. The conference was packed with insights shaping the multifamily industry going into 2025 and beyond.
    We explore the big trends—from AI everywhere to the push for centralization and automation in property management. And yes, there was a lot of talk about tech, but we’ll also touch on what’s really important — solving pain points for both operators and residents. Plus, we'll share some unexpected moments, like my personal mental health highlight — cuddling with adorable puppies at the trade show! 🐶 And Jennifer's front-row seat at the Property Brothers session.
    And, of course, AI was the buzzword of the event, but not all AI is created equal. We break down the difference between companies truly innovating with AI and others just “AI washing” for show. Spoiler: AI isn’t a magic fix — it’s about solving real business problems.
    Whether you’re curious about the future of maintenance tech or how to avoid falling behind in centralization efforts, this episode has something for everyone in the multifamily space.
    Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of multifamily!
    What are your hot topics for multifamily in 2025? Share them below and let's succeed together.
    Please take a moment and click the Like button and if you haven't already, please subscribe to  @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube. If you prefer to listen to our podcast, find 8 Stories on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

    24 min
  • 014 - Waffle House Business Lessons | 8 Stories

    Waffle House Leadership Take-Out: What Multifamily Can Learn

    They say there are two types of people – those who love Waffle House and those who are wrong. (j/k!) Whether or not you are a Waffle House enthusiast, have you considered its many tips for leadership and business success? In this episode of Eight Stories, we dig into surprising lessons from one of America’s iconic brands—and trust me, there is a lot multifamily leaders can take away from it!
    Sharon and Jennifer explore the life and leadership strategies of Waffle House, discovering how this beloved 24-hour chain became more than just a place for late-night eats. Smart real estate decisions, operational speed, and fostering a strong employee culture help drive profitability through simple but effective models.
    This episode connects the dots between Waffle House’s success and what concepts apply to multifamily. Through its operational efficiency, customer service, and employee empowerment, Waffle House has cracked the code — and like a delicious cup of Waffle House coffee, there’s plenty for multifamily to consume (and refills are free!)
    If you’re passionate about multifamily, leadership, and innovative business models, hit that like button and subscribe for more insights every week! Drop your favorite Waffle House meal in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!

    29 min
  • 013 - The Best Advice I've Ever Received - 8 Stories | Sharon Cauthen & Jennifer Carter

    Discover the Best Advice in Multifamily! | Thoughtful Insights and Leadership Gems

    Ever feel like you're one great bit of counsel away from transforming your career? Welcome to 8 Stories, where we discuss the best advice we've ever received, all aimed at helping you level up!
    In today's episode of 8 Stories, your hosts Sharon Cauthen and Jennifer Carter bring you priceless insights straight from people invested in personal growth. We're talking about the kind of advice that sticks with you, shapes your path, and ignites new possibilities. From the power of trying something new, like launching a podcast, to the serenity that comes with acceptance and being your own biggest advocate—this episode is packed with wisdom from industry leaders and everyday heroes.
    What You'll Learn Today:
    Never Too Late to Start: It's always time to begin something new - it's the secret sauce to growth.
    Find Your Peace: How accepting what you can't change leads to true inner calm.
    Be Your Best Advocate: Discover the importance of standing up for yourself in any setting.
    Embrace Discomfort: Understanding that the magic happens outside your comfort zone.
    Focus on What Matters: The art of keeping the main thing the main thing in your professional and personal life.
    Align Your Values: Why choosing an organization that matches your core beliefs is a game-changer.
    How a healthy dose of curiosity can fuel your success.
    Join us as we share these nuggets of wisdom and more. Let's keep this conversation going and continue to learn from each other!
    Hit that subscribe button and ring the bell so you never miss an episode! If you found this advice helpful, give us a thumbs up and share it with your friends. And hey, what's the best advice you've ever received? Let us know in the comments below!
    Want more multifamily-centered content? Check out  @MultifamilyMediaNetwork  and discover podcasts led by industry legends - on every topic related to multifamily. Listen, engage, and level up your game!

    19 min
  • 012 - Olympics - 8 Stories from the Stands

    I've got an exciting Olympics-themed episode of Eight Stories for you today!


    From the experts at MultiFamilyMediaNetwork.com, this podcast episode features special guest Jen Casey, who brings frontline Olympics experience.


    Sharon Cauthen, Jennifer Carter, and Jen discuss how lessons from the Olympics can be applied to the multifamily industry.


    You'll gain critical insights into teamwork, coaching, and resilience that will help you excel in your multifamily career.


    Like this video and SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more multifamily content!


    Join us next week for eight more stories from the multifamily space.


    Visit MultiFamilyMediaNetwork.com for more! Like, Comment & Subscribe
















































































    Olympics, Multifamily Success, Teamwork, Coaching, Resilience, Jen Casey, Olympic Lessons, Property Management


    #Multifamily #Olympics #Teamwork #Coaching #Resilience #Leadership

    49 min
  • 011 Leadership Insights: From Blueprint Conferences to Customer Experience | 8 Stories

    Hey, multifamily leaders and PropTech enthusiasts! Welcome back to another episode of 8 Stories, your go-to podcast for everything happening in the multifamily world.

    I'm Sharon Cauthen, here with my co-host Jennifer Carter, and today, we've got a packed agenda that's sure to resonate with everyone in the industry.
    We're covering everything from exciting event announcements to deep dives into customer experience and maintenance management.
    So, buckle up!
    **Blueprint Conference 2024 – The Future of Real Estate Awaits!
    We start with exciting news about the upcoming Blueprint Conference, happening September 17-19 in Las Vegas. This is *the* event where all facets of commercial real estate, including multifamily, converge under one roof. Whether in construction, management, or investment, this is the place to be. Plus, we’ve got an exclusive giveaway for our listeners – a ticket worth $1,895! Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the action. Head over to MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com to enter.
    **Optimized Marketing Strategies – Aligning Goals and Telling Your Story**
    Next, we dive into an insightful discussion from the Optimized podcast, where Janice Ross and marketing expert Lauren Dewey discuss the importance of goal alignment and storytelling in marketing. It’s not just about hitting numbers—it’s about ensuring everyone’s on the same page, from property managers to owners, and weaving a narrative that resonates with your audience.
    **Setting Boundaries – The Importance of Work-Life Balance in Multifamily Leadership
    We then tackle a topic close to many hearts: the importance of setting boundaries in the workplace. A viral image of a bride doing budgets on her wedding day sparked a heated discussion. It’s a reminder that, as leaders, we must protect our teams’ personal time. Overworking shouldn’t be the norm, and it's crucial to champion a culture that respects work-life balance.
    **Transparency in Pricing – A Shift in Multifamily Operations
    Transparency is key, especially when it comes to pricing. We discuss how more multifamily operators embrace open pricing models on their websites, making it easier for potential residents to make informed decisions. It’s about trust, authenticity, and meeting consumer expectations in today’s digital age.
    **The Power of Maintenance – Closing the Gap Between Managers and Residents
    Finally, we explore the often-overlooked world of maintenance. A recent report revealed a significant gap between what property managers consider important to residents and what matters. Spoiler: Maintenance is way more crucial than many realize. Addressing this can make or break resident satisfaction, so it's time to listen to what our residents say.
    Join the Conversation!
    We’re all about community here and want to hear from you! What resonated with you today? Have a funny or insightful multifamily story? Drop it in the comments. And don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network. Let’s keep the conversation going!
    Multifamily, PropTech, Leadership, Blueprint Conference, Customer Experience, Goal Alignment, Storytelling, Maintenance Management, Work-Life Balance, Transparency in Pricing
    **Hashtags:** #MultifamilyLeadership #PropTech #CustomerExperience #BlueprintConference #MaintenanceMatters #WorkLifeBalance #PropertyManagement

    30 min
  • 010 - 8 Stories

    8 Innovative Multifamily Living Trends You Need to Know | 8 Stories Podcast

    Discover the latest multifamily living trends inspired by the hospitality industry, from contactless check-ins to personalized experiences.
    Join Sharon Cauthen and Jennifer Carter as they delve into these exciting innovations.
    Welcome to 8 Stories, brought to you by the Multifamily Media Network.
    I'm Sharon Cauthen, alongside my co-host Jennifer Carter.
    In today's episode, we explore groundbreaking trends that are transforming multifamily living, inspired by the hospitality sector.
    Whether it's contactless check-ins, personalized resident experiences, or community-driven coffee culture, we're diving into how these innovations can elevate the living experience in multifamily communities.
    00:03: Introduction and episode overview
    00:38: Contactless Check-Ins: Adopting hospitality trends in multifamily
    02:52: Lobby Grab-and-Go: Convenience and community interaction
    05:49: Personalization: Using data to enhance resident experiences
    10:35: Coffee Culture: Creating community through coffee
    15:34: The Rise of Influencers: Leveraging social media for marketing
    19:04: Back to School: Resetting and realigning for the new season
    22:11: Hug Your Puppy: The importance of not being a people pleaser
    24:00: New Podcast Hosts: Welcome Ed Nishai and Chris Carmonica to the network
    For more insightful episodes and resources, visit MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com.
    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more tips on optimizing your multifamily living experience.
    Leave a comment below with your favorite trend or any new ideas you plan to implement.
    Visit MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com for more podcasts, thought pieces, and sponsorship opportunities.

    33 min
  • 010 - 8 Stories

    Navigating the Multifamily Journey: From Messy Middles to Memorable Lessons | Eight Stories Podcast

    Join hosts Sharon Cauthen and Jennifer Carter for an exciting episode of Eight Stories!
    From home improvement challenges to powerful business strategies, this episode covers a wide range of topics that will resonate with anyone in the multifamily industry.
    Welcome to another insightful episode of Eight Stories, brought to you by the Multifamily Media Network.
    Hosted by Sharon Cauthen and Jennifer Carter, this podcast dives deep into the multifamily space, sharing stories and lessons that inspire and educate.
    In this episode, we start with the messy middle of DIY projects, explore powerful sales strategies, discuss impactful business philosophies, and end with profound truths about perspectives.
    Whether you’re a multifamily professional or just love compelling stories, this episode has something for everyone.
    00:00 - Introduction and sponsor shoutout
    01:00 - The Messy Middle: Overcoming DIY project challenges
    03:12 - Sales as a Transaction of Enthusiasm: Insights from Ryan Serhant
    06:11 - Strategy vs. Execution: Lessons from Peter Drucker
    07:35 - The Empty Chair: Jeff Bezos' meeting strategy
    10:19 - Balancing Work and Family: Lessons from Bruce Arians
    12:51 - The Two Pizza Rule: Keeping meetings efficient
    14:43 - Meet the Team Pages: Humanizing your team
    18:52 - The Truth: Different perspectives from Dr. Paul Kalanithi
    21:58 - Conclusion and farewell
    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more stories and insights from the multifamily industry.
    Leave a comment below with your thoughts on the messy middle or any of the strategies discussed.
    Visit MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com for more episodes and resources.

    24 min

About 8 Stories

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to the 8 Stories podcast, a proud member of the Multifamily Media Network. Join us as host Sharon Cauthen shares stories about business and life – and how those narratives may apply to your…