Boss Talks | Elevating ALL the Bosses of the Multifamily Industry

In this episode of Boss Talks, host Evan Happel welcomes Annemarie Hobson, a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience in the multifamily industry. Annemarie shares insights on leadership, customer care, and career transitions, highlighting her journey from leasing consultant to regional manager. The conversation touches on the importance of empathy, effective team management, and the evolving job market. Annemarie offers practical advice for job seekers, emphasizing the value of professional resumes and networking. This episode provides a valuable perspective on thriving in the multifamily sector and the significance of caring for both employees and residents.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:32 Meet Anne Marie Hobson

02:44 Music Preferences and Family Life

05:07 Parking Insights

06:56 Caffeinated Beverage of Choice

08:46 Anne Marie's Career Journey

11:21 Challenges in Leasing

16:00 Job Search Experience

16:58 Resume Tips and Networking

22:10 Staying Positive During Job Search

22:44 Building Confidence After Layoffs

23:57 Finding Solace in Helping Others

24:52 Navigating the Job Market

26:23 The Debate on Open for Work Banners

27:14 Caring for the Customer

29:27 The Importance of Vendor Relationships

31:21 Adapting to a Changing Workforce

35:38 The Role of Leadership

42:28 Empathy in Leadership

46:18 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

In this episode of Boss Talks, host Evan Happel sits down with Bobbi Steward, CEO of Revyse, to discuss the challenges and insights of running a startup in the PropTech space. Bobbi shares her journey from working in multifamily marketing to founding Revyse amidst the myriad of tech solutions available in the industry. The conversation delves into the complexities of vendor management, the importance of community support in startup success, and pivotal moments that led to the creation of Revyse. Bobbi also talks about the balance between family life and startup demands, highlighting the relentless yet rewarding nature of her work. The episode offers a peek into the evolving roles within the multifamily sector, namely the integration of marketing and tech oversight, and the value of data analytics. Bobbi’s candid discussion provides valuable lessons for anyone interested in PropTech, startups, and the multifamily industry.

00:00 Introduction to Boss Talks

01:40 Meet Bobbi Steward, CEO of Revyse

02:46 Balancing Startup Life and Family

06:31 The Multifamily Industry Experience

10:38 The Role of Technology in Multifamily

15:22 The Birth of Revyse

18:32 Challenges in Vendor Management

25:56 The Perfect Timing for Change

26:54 Building a Supportive Community

29:50 Unexpected Growth and Opportunities

31:30 Empowering Operators with Data

34:20 The Role of Marketing in Tech Decisions

38:37 The Importance of Pilots in Tech Implementation

46:12 Centralizing Tech Decisions

50:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Opportunities

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

In this episode of Boss Talks, host Evan Happel welcomes Toni Blake, a multifamily industry veteran with nearly five decades of experience. The conversation covers Toni’s history in the multifamily industry, her innovative approaches to leasing and training, and the launch of her new free resource platform, Totally Toni. Toni shares memorable anecdotes, including her unique tour bus journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, her passion for socially responsible activities, and her resilience following personal and professional challenges. The episode also delves into her artistic endeavors and the significance of butterflies in her life as symbols of positive transformation. Key initiatives such as personalized leasing techniques, the Kindness Challenge, and community service ideas are highlighted, providing listeners with actionable insights and inspiration for boosting engagement and spreading positivity. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 

01:37 Toni Blake's Exciting Announcement 

02:33 Getting Hyped: Music and Energy 

04:14 Funny and Memorable Parking Stories 

06:01 Caffeinated Conversations 

07:43 Toni's Daughter at the Olympics 

10:29 Journey into Multifamily Industry 

14:39 Freestyle Leasing Philosophy 

21:12 Incorporating Comedy into Training 

26:01 Innovative Maintenance Ideas 

28:43 Innovative Maintenance Strategies 

30:01 Creative Sticker Faces for Maintenance 

32:13 The Cost and Hassle of Moving 

34:07 The Untold Story of the Bus Tour 

43:02 Totally Toni's Creative Vault 

46:31 Spreading Kindness and Community Service 

53:27 The Butterfly Moment and Personal Transformation 

56:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

Welcome to the 100th episode of Boss Talks! In this milestone installment, host Evan Happel brings on his friends and special guests, Monica and David Hickman, to share their inspiring journey of building a business around creating environments where people belong. Hailing from the Charlotte area in North Carolina, Monica and David are the dynamic duo behind Social Hub, a company that brings fun and community connection to apartment living across the Carolinas.

The Hickmans' story began long before they started their business venture. Having worked together in the past, they discovered their shared passion for hospitality and connection. David played a pivotal role in teaching Evan to embrace fun in the workplace, and Monica had always harbored a dream of starting a business with David. Their passion and commitment to hospitality ultimately led them to establish Social Hub, which offers resource-style events in luxury apartment communities to help foster a sense of community among residents.

As Monica and David share in the episode, their company focuses on delivering elevated, hassle-free resident events. They highlight the challenges that onsite property teams face in executing such events on their own and explain how Social Hub steps in as a solution. From hosting events with joyful excellence to offering consistent, standout services, Social Hub ensures that each event is memorable and runs smoothly, creating an amazing experience for both residents and property managers. It's no wonder they've grown rapidly, now serving around 100 communities with plans to expand into Raleigh soon.

Moreover, the Hickmans emphasize that building connections doesn't end at hosting events. They aim to create vibrant communities where people truly feel they belong. Monica and David share personal insights, including how they transformed their outdoor patio into a gathering place and how they were inspired by their families’ Southern hospitality traditions. Through their work, they strive to connect residents with each other, paving the way for natural, organic relationships to form—relationships that go beyond an event and create lasting bonds.

An integral part of Social Hub's success is the dedicated team that Monica and David have built. They take immense pride in their team, mostly composed of talented women who share the same passion for hospitality. By providing leadership opportunities and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, Social Hub ensures that each event is unique and impactful. They’ve developed strong partnerships with sponsors like Tito’s Vodka and Anheuser Busch, further enhancing the quality and reach of their events.

As Evan wraps up this special episode, he reflects on the importance of creating spaces where people can let down their guards and connect. With Monica and David's honest sharing and heartfelt stories, it’s clear that Social Hub is making significant strides in transforming how community events are conducted in the multifamily housing industry. This 100th episode resonates with anyone looking to foster genuine community connections, emphasizing how creating environments of belonging can enrich lives and strengthen communities.

Celebrate with Evan, Monica, and David in this milestone episode and get inspired to think about how you can build environments where people feel they belong, both in personal and professional settings. And remember, Boss Talks is always on the lookout for bosses making a difference in the multifamily industry. So, if you have a story to share, reach out to Evan and be a part of the conversation!

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

In the 99th episode of Boss Talks, we had the privilege of hearing from Carrie McGonagle, the Senior Vice President of Blue Mountain Community Management. Based in Oregon, Carrie has built a remarkable career in HOA management over the past thirteen and a half years, despite never planning to enter the field. It was fascinating to delve into her journey, mutual connections, and her philosophy on leaving things better than she found them.

Carrie's path into HOA management was anything but straightforward. Interestingly, she found her way to the industry by chance, starting after an economy-induced job shift. Despite a degree in accounting and various roles in the banking and multifamily housing sectors, it was a temp job at Blue Mountain that ultimately launched her community management career. Today, she enthusiastically manages both clients and employees, stressing the importance of building sincere relationships and understanding the unique needs of each community she serves.

Building community is at the heart of Carrie's mission, both professionally and personally. She emphasizes the value of genuine interactions and connecting over common interests. For Carrie, it's about fostering relationships that go beyond surface-level transactions. Whether through simple acts, like inviting someone for coffee, or by nurturing professional bonds, Carrie believes that authentic connections often lead to personal and professional growth.

Carrie also shared insights about the unique dynamics and challenges within HOA management. From quirky parking scenarios to adapting HR practices to fit the community's shifting needs, she understands that flexibility and empathy are crucial in her field. Her dedication to not only her own development but also that of the industry highlights her commitment to improving the experience for everyone involved.

To future-proof the community management field, Carrie advocates for continuous learning and adaptation. Recognizing that employees' expectations evolve, she emphasizes the significance of maintaining a supportive work environment and encouraging professional development. By investing in people, she's not just focusing on immediate results but ensuring the long-lasting success and resilience of her team and industry.

We appreciate Evan's thoughtful and engaging conversation with Carrie, offering a glimpse into her philosophy and strategic outlook. Her story is a testament to the possibilities within community management, and how evolving industries can nurture meaningful careers. For those passionate about making a difference in their communities, Carrie's insights provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

Tune in next week for the 100th episode of Boss Talks, where Evan will continue to bring you more inspiring stories and insights from industry leaders. Whether you're in the HOA, condo, or apartment world, there's always something to learn and take away from each episode. Interested in sharing your journey? Reach out to Evan—he's eager to hear from bosses striving to make a positive impact.

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

In this episode of 'Boss Talks,' Tiana Heath, Senior Manager of Industry Relations at the National Apartment Association (NAA), shares her professional journey, transitioning to her new role just before the Apartmentalize event and her responsibilities that encompass supporting member volunteers and spearheading educational initiatives. 

The conversation delves into her move from Kansas City to Washington, DC, and strategies for building community both personally and professionally. Additionally, she shares about her inspiring journey in property management, beginning from an apartment locator to a national role handling regional teams and highlighting the significance of community and support systems. 

Volunteering and diversity in the workplace also feature prominently, showcasing personal experiences and emphasizing the value of representation and active participation in industry surveys and committees. 

Reflective insights into mentorship, governance, and staying informed about legislative issues underline the importance of industry engagement and continuous learning. 

She also stresses the necessity of understanding financial nuances and tackling complex tasks, encouraging individuals to embrace challenges and seek further education and mentorship. 

The overarching message celebrates persistence, adaptability, and the rewarding path through property management and multifamily housing.

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

01:22 Meeting Kendall Barnard

03:03 Kendall's Background and Work in Philly

03:40 Joining Corman Residential

06:41 Industry Connections and Networking

08:55 Building Community

11:42 Parking Stories

17:04 Caffeinated Beverage of Choice

17:29 Kendall's Journey in Multifamily

18:09 Early Career Experiences

24:03 Exploring Career Paths in Real Estate

24:16 Understanding Property Management

24:44 Career Growth and Opportunities

25:17 Challenges and Solutions in the Industry

25:36 The Importance of Networking

26:13 Certifications and Professional Development

28:00 Engaging the Younger Generation

28:36 The Role of Suppliers in Multifamily

29:32 Inspiration from Industry Leaders

45:00 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Welcome back to another episode of Boss Talks, and wow, do we have a treat for you today! Episode 97 features the incredible Kendall Barnard, who hails from Pennsylvania but has made her mark in the bustling city of Philadelphia. We recently crossed paths at Apartmentalize in Philly and it was a great experience. From the Melanin and Multifamily Allies Mixer to our Boss Brunch, it was amazing to interact with Kendall in her home turf.

Kendall, currently a General Manager with Korman Residential, has a fascinating journey in the property management world. She isn't just managing properties; she's building vibrant communities and enhancing lives. She shared some touching insights about her role and the influence it has on both her personal and professional life. Kendall puts a strong emphasis on being a positive force within her community. Whether it’s belting out a cheerful "Good Morning!" from the mezzanine level or ensuring new trainees receive proper guidance, Kendall's dedication is truly heartwarming.

The episode also covered some fun and challenging industry stories. Kendall recounted a memorable parking incident involving a "barnacle" — a large device affixed to car windshields to prevent unauthorized parking. Let’s just say, it was a mix of neighborhood theatrics and a touch of tension. Despite the drama, with tempers cooling down and apologies exchanged, the parking offender became a respectful resident.

Another engaging segment delved into Kendall's career trajectory. Believe it or not, her entrance into property management wasn't part of the plan. Initially set on a nursing career, Kendall stumbled into this field while trying to rent an apartment. From a part-time leasing agent dealing with not-so-glamorous properties to advancing into higher roles, her message was clear: the multifamily industry holds more potential than many realize. Kendall underscored the importance of mentorship and the many certifications available that help professionals grow and thrive in this sector.

Kendall also highlighted the essential role of suppliers in property management. Companies like InterSolutions and Restore Core are crucial to the smooth operation of residential communities. Her point? Building strong relationships with suppliers can make or break property management operations. It's always enlightening to hear how the synergy between suppliers and property managers leads to the success of the community overall.

To wrap things up, Kendall shared her passion for bringing more visibility to the property management industry. She suggested using social media platforms like TikTok to connect with the younger generation and even floated the idea of a TV show to demystify the field. Her energy and innovative thinking are infectious, leaving us inspired to view property management not just as a job, but as a community-building, life-enhancing career path.

All this and so much more on this insightful episode of Boss Talks. If you missed it, be sure to catch up on past episodes on your favorite podcast platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. And as always, if you've got a story or insight to share, don’t hesitate to get in touch – you could be our next featured guest!

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

Hello everyone! Welcome to another episode of "Boss Talks." We're thrilled to have Misty Rowell with us today. Misty is the Director of Operations at Neiders Company and an industry veteran of 18 years. Today, we dive deep into her journey, leadership style, and the wisdom she's gathered over nearly two decades.

She opens up about the emotional roller coaster she experienced after being laid off. Her career, like many others, is more than just a job; it’s a passion. "Changing employment can be incredibly raw, with feelings of shame and embarrassment," Misty shares. However, it's in these challenging times that we discover who truly supports us. The solidarity of her friends and peers was a silver lining that helped her navigate this tough period.

For Misty, the support from her LinkedIn community and industry peers played a critical role during her layoff. Messages of encouragement, virtual hugs, and career opportunities poured in, giving her the strength to move forward. She emphasizes how small gestures can significantly impact someone struggling, a testament to the power of kindness and community.

Networking was a vital factor in Misty’s career transition. She speaks about the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships. Her current role at Nader's was made possible through years of networking with Frank, the VP. “Establishing trust and relationships over the years made the decision easier,” Misty explains, highlighting the advantages of internal referrals and known working styles.

Misty wasn’t always a leader driven by empathy and emotional intelligence. It was after joining Thrive as a regional manager that she realized the critical role these qualities play. She stresses that empathy is a skill that must be developed over time, likening it to lifting weights at the gym. This new approach helped her address team issues more effectively by understanding their perspectives and acknowledging their emotions.

Curiosity is another cornerstone of Misty’s leadership philosophy. She believes in the power of asking "why" to understand underlying issues better. By being approachable and open-minded, Misty fosters an environment where her team feels safe to share their struggles and successes. Her advice? “Ask your team, ‘What would you do if you were in my role?’” This simple question can yield invaluable insights and foster a more collaborative workplace.

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

This episode of Boss Talks takes us through Joy Arinze’s fascinating career path, her reflections on vulnerability, community building, and her impactful stint in program management.

One of the key takeaways from Joy’s approach to life and community building is the importance of vulnerability. She shared how her initial curiosity about people has evolved into a practice of honest sharing. By opening up about her own experiences, Joy creates a space where others feel comfortable doing the same. This genuine exchange fosters deeper connections and a more authentic community.

Joy's professional journey is nothing short of inspiring. Starting in student housing, Joy navigated various roles that ultimately led her to program management in multifamily housing. She highlighted the vital role of thoughtful solutions in tackling widespread issues like parking. By leveraging technology and data, Joy drove impactful changes that enhanced both business operations and resident experiences.

In a touching segment, Joy recounted her move back to Nigeria to start a foundation aimed at helping internally displaced persons. Her firsthand experience with the economic and political challenges in Nigeria underscored her commitment to making a tangible difference. Despite facing obstacles, Joy's work in providing aid and restoring dignity to those affected remains a significant part of her story.

Joy’s passion for program management shines through as she describes it as turning chaos into clarity. She explains the distinct roles of product, program, and project management, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships with prop-tech companies. Her experience at Equity Residential showcased her ability to drive initiatives that align with organizational goals while leveraging technology to its fullest potential.

Joy believes that the future of work, especially in multifamily, lies in embracing technology and fostering an inclusive culture. She advocates for diverse perspectives and flexible work environments that accommodate varying personal circumstances. Joy’s insights call for a shift towards more intentional and empathetic decision-making processes within organizations.

Finally, Joy opens up about her gap year, a period marked by travel, introspection, and continuous learning. This time allowed her to reassess her career goals and personal values. Joy’s journey through uncertainty highlights the importance of community and empathy, especially during times of significant change and challenge.

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.

In this 94th episode, we're thrilled to introduce you to a remarkable guest: Jillian Fikkert. Jillian is the VP of Sales and Marketing with Buckingham Companies. Her transition to Buckingham has been nothing short of transformative for both her personal and professional life.

Jillian started our conversation by diving into her extensive background in the industry, having spent over two decades building a stellar reputation. She's no stranger to change, having relocated to Pennsylvania on a whim for a job opportunity, a decision that allowed her to start afresh and build a strong community in a new environment. 

Networking has been a cornerstone of Jillian's career. She's always looking to make authentic connections, valuing the relationships that go beyond mere transactions. According to Jillian, fostering a genuine network where people feel comfortable reaching out and sharing ideas is crucial. Whether it's seeking advice, recommending others for opportunities, or simply catching up, these connections have been instrumental in her career growth.

When Jillian's previous role underwent a reorganization, she found herself at a crossroads. Instead of seeing it as a setback, she viewed it as an opportunity. With an optimistic mindset and the support of her network, Jillian navigated through this period with resilience. She emphasized the significance of being open about your journey and leveraging your network to explore new opportunities. Jillian's transparent approach not only helped her but also allowed her to assist others in finding roles that fit them better.

Jillian also touched on the importance of maintaining a good reputation. She believes that being approachable and willing to have meaningful conversations plays a big role in how you're perceived. She highlighted that it's crucial to be consistent in your interactions, ensuring that they're not just one-sided but mutually beneficial. Your reputation is built over time through consistent, positive actions and genuine engagement with others in your field.

One of the standout moments in our discussion was Jillian's approach to job hunting. Instead of conducting her search in secrecy, she chose transparency. By openly sharing her journey, she received a wave of support from her network, leading to numerous opportunities. She stressed the importance of knowing your non-negotiables and what you need from your next role. Jillian's experience shows that being upfront and clear about your goals can lead to more aligned opportunities.

A significant part of Jillian's current role at Buckingham involves empowering her team and driving innovation. She believes that the multifamily industry is currently experiencing a renaissance, especially in tech adoption. Her team is heavily focused on leasing centralization and understanding the best tech solutions that can streamline their processes. Jillian encourages an open-minded approach to new technologies, ensuring that the end-user experience is always at the forefront.

In addition to leading her team, Jillian highlighted the importance of cross-functional collaboration. Decisions around technology and processes should never be made in isolation. By involving different departments and getting buy-in from multiple stakeholders, you can ensure that the solutions you implement are effective and well-received.

Jillian’s insights on building a network, cultivating a good reputation, and empowering teams are invaluable. Her journey from facing a career transition to finding a new role that aligns with her values is inspiring. For those navigating through their own career paths, Jillian’s story is a reminder to stay optimistic, be open about your journey, and lean into your network. 

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*The views and opinions expressed on Boss Talks are those of the host and their guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community Boss.