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.

Welcome to a special episode of Boss Talks from Apartmentalize 2024! Host Evan Happel is joined by Don Beveridge from Community Boss to discuss the latest trends and innovations in the multifamily housing industry. In this insightful conversation, they dive deep into the growing concerns around fraud prevention, highlighting how new technologies and even AI are shaping this ever-evolving challenge. They explore how companies are tackling fraud with various solutions, from validating documents to assessing financial stability through bank records.

Next, they transition into the topic of centralization in property management, discussing how the industry's administrative and maintenance tasks are becoming increasingly specialized and often managed offsite. This shift aims to enhance consistency, reduce errors, and allow on-site staff to focus more on resident-facing roles.

The discussion also covers the introduction of new staffing models in third-party management, aimed at achieving cost parity with owner-operators while offering the flexibility of centralized services.

Moreover, they explore the impact of these changes on career paths within the industry, moving from traditional career ladders to more flexible career lattices. The importance of learning from other industries and adopting technologies not originally designed for multifamily housing is also emphasized.

Finally, Evan shares exciting personal news about building a new home office studio, reflecting on his journey of remote working and aiming to enhance his Boss Talks setup.

Don't miss this engaging and comprehensive exploration of the multifamily housing landscape at Apartmentalize 2024. Tune in for expert insights, industry trends, and much more!

00:09 Introduction to Boss Talks at Apartmentalize 2024

00:44 Discussing Industry Trends and Expectations

01:13 The Growing Issue of Fraud Prevention

02:09 Technological Arms Race in Fraud Detection

07:52 Centralization in Leasing and Maintenance

10:26 Specialization and Efficiency in Property Management

15:15 Innovative Staffing Models and Career Lattices

18:20 The Role of Technology in Modern Property Management

19:03 The Growing Complexity of Technology Governance

20:49 Insights from Industry Interviews

24:07 Challenges with Leasing and Amenities

27:21 Maximizing Revenue from Amenities

30:02 Innovative Parking Solutions

31:33 Building a Home Office Studio

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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.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:40 Meet Monique Edwards

03:00 Excitement for Apartmentalize in Philly

03:56 Monique's Professional Journey

06:00 Building Community and Hospitality

08:21 Caffeinated Conversations

10:42 Career Path Insights

23:10 Philly Slang and Fun

26:58 Philly Cheesesteak Etiquette

29:21 Volunteering and Career Growth

30:05 Impact of Association Involvement

41:04 Upcoming NAA Event

46:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

This is episode 93, and our guest is the incredible Monique "Mo" Edwards. We are thrilled to have Mo join us, especially after meeting her at Apartmentalize last year in Atlanta. She’s a valuable member of Melanin and Multifamily and is bringing some Philly flair to our conversation today as we prepare for our trip to Apartmentalize in Philadelphia.

She started with a degree in PR and marketing and had dreams of becoming a celebrity publicist. However, life had other plans, and Mo found her way into the multifamily industry thanks to a nudge from her sorority sisters. Over the last 13 years, Mo has held various positions, from leasing consultant to regional support specialist, and she currently thrives on the supplier side of the business.

One of Mo’s main passions is building community, both professionally and personally. She connects people, resources, and opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community wherever she goes. In our conversation, she highlighted the importance of hospitality and making people feel special, whether it’s through a shared meal of tacos or Asian cuisine or simply by reaching out and making connections.

Volunteering is another area where Mo excels. Her contributions to the Pennsylvania Apartment Association have not only advanced her career but also empowered her to give back to the industry. She encourages everyone to get involved with their local associations and even shared how volunteering has enriched her life, both as a PTO chair and through various roles within the association.

Looking ahead to Apartmentalize, Mo is excited to speak on a panel about career development and employee retention. The session, titled "Career Metamorphosis: Transforming Employee Ambitions into Realities," will dive into actionable solutions to help keep talented employees engaged and growing within their companies. It’s an important topic, especially in an industry where turnover and quiet quitting are common challenges.

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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.

00:00 Introduction to Boss Talks Episode 92

00:13 Meet James Spearman

05:57 Building Community: James' Approach

09:42 Hospitality and Personal Touch in Property Management

18:25 James' Journey from Restaurant Industry to Property Management

22:27 A Life-Changing Event

23:06 Recovery and Determination

23:38 Learning to Live Again

25:21 Reflections on Life and Relationships

26:36 Lessons in Leadership

29:25 Building a Strong Team

32:45 The Importance of Networking

36:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

James, who currently works with Village Green in Michigan, began his career in the restaurant industry. It was during a shift as a fry cook at Buffalo Wild Wings that a friend introduced him to property management. Intrigued by the potential and the people-centric nature of the job, James embarked on a career that would eventually see him competing as one of the top leasing specialists. However, he balanced two demanding jobs, working over 70 hours a week, which inevitably took a toll on his health.

In Christmas week of 2015, James experienced a life-changing event. He had a heart attack in his sleep, followed by multiple seizures. Thanks to the quick thinking of a friend and the skilled intervention from emergency medical services, James was resuscitated multiple times and placed in a coma. He woke up three days later on his birthday, unaware of the ordeal he had faced. During his month-long recovery, he had to relearn basic motor functions and regain his memory. This harrowing experience forced James to reevaluate his life, work habits, and overall perspective.

His near-death experience emphasized the importance of community and the simple joys of living. James had to learn how to live, laugh, and love all over again, which he now brings to his professional life in property management. He discovered that building strong relationships with residents and being his authentic, corny, and endearing self helped create a positive and welcoming environment.

James' leadership style extends beyond management; it's about fostering a community. By engaging genuinely with his team and residents, he ensures everyone feels valued and heard. This approach not only enhances workplace dynamics but also bolsters community spirit. Through his involvement with the Detroit Metro Apartment Association (DMAA) and other industry platforms, James emphasizes the importance of networking and being selfless in property management.

James' story is a testament to resilience and the power of community. It's a reminder that we can rise above our struggles by prioritizing genuine human connections and embracing our true selves. As we move forward, let’s take a page from James’ book and focus on the people around us, fostering environments where everyone can thrive.

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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.

00:00 Welcome to Boss Talks Episode 91

00:04 Introducing James Pfeiffer and ACCU

02:07 Community Building and HOA Management

05:27 Personal Insights: Cooking and Coffee

06:42 The Origin Story of ACCU

09:38 Challenges and Expansion of ACCU

10:17 The Impact of COVID and Mountain Communities

23:49 Tech Features and Community Benefits

24:25 Accounting Software and Integration

25:50 Communication Challenges and Solutions

30:09 Impact of COVID on HOA Management

31:33 Artificial Intelligence in HOA Management

James, who now helms ACCU, spoke proudly about the company’s origins and growth. Founded by his father in 1979, ACCU started as a local property management company and has since grown into a significant player in the Denver area. James emphasized the unique culture and dedication required to manage community associations effectively. He highlighted how ACCU has successfully managed both apartment and HOA complexes, thanks to the solid foundation laid by his father. Intriguingly, the company has stayed true to its roots, focusing on local communities even as the industry evolves.

Managing community associations is no cakewalk, especially with the varied dynamics at play. James highlighted how mental health can significantly impact interactions within communities. During the pandemic, they noticed an increased strain on residents and staff alike. By training their staff to approach each situation with empathy and understanding, ACCU endeavors to maintain harmony and address the root causes of conflicts. This compassionate approach, combined with fostering strong relationships within the community, helps to build a resilient and supportive environment.

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around James’s new tech venture, Saga. Saga is a tech startup designed to facilitate more effective connections between HOA communities and managers. Think of it as a hybrid between LinkedIn and Uber for community managers. James’s platform ensures that a manager’s expertise and accomplishments are well-documented and recognized, which in turn helps communities find the right fit for their needs. The true innovation lies in seamless transitions – if a manager leaves, the community retains all operational continuity thanks to Saga’s robust infrastructure.

James also touched on the emerging trends of artificial intelligence and outsourcing within the industry. While AI can drastically enhance efficiency – such as through automated responses to common queries – it also raises concerns about the loss of personal touch. ACCU is cautiously optimistic about integrating AI, balancing technological advancements with the human element crucial to community management. Outsourcing, especially for administrative roles, has proven valuable amidst labor shortages, albeit with careful selection to ensure quality service.

The conversation between Evan and James wrapped up with reflections on the future of community management. With an array of innovative tech tools and a solid grounding in compassionate service, ACCU and Saga are poised to lead the way in fostering healthier, more engaged communities. As James aptly put it, “In a world where big corporate interests feel like they're taking over, we're returning to some moral values that customers look for.” It’s clear that through family heritage, a commitment to local communities, and forward-thinking tech, James Pfeiffer is setting a brilliant example in the world of community management.

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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.