Join us for an insightful discussion with Norwalk's Mayor Tom Phillips and Executive Vice President Joe Pietruszynski as they explore the dynamic growth of Norwalk, Iowa. In this episode, discover how strategic planning and community collaboration are shaping the future of this rapidly expanding city.... and how a Buc-ee's may just change the way we look at this little suburb!

Key topics covered in this video include:

- **Norwalk's Transformation**: A look back at Norwalk's humble beginnings in the '90s and how the city has evolved into one of Iowa's fastest-growing communities, boasting a remarkable 43% growth since 2010.

-**Economic Development Initiatives**: Mayor Phillips shares his vision for economic development, highlighting key initiatives that have attracted new businesses and improved the quality of life for residents.

- **Balancing Growth and Community Feel**: Learn about the delicate balance between fostering commercial growth while maintaining Norwalk's small-town charm, including community events like Norwalk Music Fest and the Front Porch Norwalk initiative.

- **Housing Diversity**: Discover the importance of diverse housing options in supporting local economic growth and providing residents with the amenities they seek, from single-family homes to apartments and senior living facilities.

- **Future Developments**: Get an exclusive look at exciting upcoming projects, such as Norwalk Central and various mixed-use developments, designed to enhance the community's appeal and accessibility.

Welcome to Dig It: A Real Estate Podcast by Hubbell Realty Company, where we dive into the fascinating world of real estate education and development. In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program at Iowa State University with Professor James Spiller and Hubbell market analyst John Schmitt.Join us as we uncover the unique aspects of the MRED program, which stands as the first of its kind in the Midwest. Designed specifically for working professionals, this master's degree offers flexible learning tailored to the diverse needs of students across various real estate disciplines.

Key topics discussed in this episode include:-

**Program Overview:** Learn about the MRED program's inception and its focus on providing real estate education that accommodates the busy lives of professionals.

- **Curriculum Insights:** Discover how the program integrates coursework from the College of Business, Engineering, and Design, offering a comprehensive education that prepares graduates for the complexities of real estate development.

- **Student Experience:** Hear firsthand from John about his journey through the program, highlighting the networking opportunities and personal growth that come from collaborating with peers across the nation.

- **Flexible Learning:** Understand how the asynchronous format allows students to balance work, family, and education, making it accessible for those with demanding schedules.

By the end of this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into how the MRED program can enhance your career in real estate, the importance of community-focused development, and the innovative approaches being embraced in today’s market. Join us in exploring how education can be a powerful tool in shaping the future of real estate.

Surfs up for the newest episode of Dig It: A Real Estate Podcast, where we dive into the transformative ICON Water Trails project and the newest addition: The Hubbell Trailhead! In this episode, we welcome Monica Converse from ICON Water Trails, a non-profit organization dedicated to activating and connecting communities through over 150 miles of waterways. Discover how ICON aims to enhance recreational opportunities, improve urban access to water, and promote environmental conservation while ensuring safety across the region.Key topics covered in this episode include:- The mission and vision of ICON Water Trails, focusing on connecting people, water, and communities specifically at the future Hubbell Trailhead - The five main pillars driving ICON's initiatives: safety, economic development, recreation, environmental conservation, and community engagement.- An overview of current and upcoming recreational sites, including the exciting developments at downtown locations like Principal Point and the Hubbell Trailhead.Get insights into the economic impact of these water trails, with an impressive report highlighting $3.4 million in wages supporting local jobs and attracting visitors to the region.If you're interested in how urban water trails can reshape community engagement, enhance recreational opportunities, and elevate Central Iowa's profile on the national stage, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how ICON is turning dreams into reality, creating vibrant spaces for everyone in Iowa to enjoy their natural resources safely and sustainably.https://www.iconwatertrails.com/https://hubbellrealty.com/news-details/2024/10/11/hubbell-trailhead-unveiled-as-new-icon-water-trails-site-at-gray's-station

Welcome to the latest episode of Dig It, the podcast by Hubbell Realty Company, where we dive deep into the world of senior living and assisted living in Iowa. Join us as we chat with Brent Willett, President and CEO of the Iowa Health Care Association, and Jed Gines, Vice President of Operations for Highmark Senior Living, overseeing Hubbell's Edencrest communities.In this engaging conversation, we explore:- The journey into senior living: Hear from Brent and Jed about their backgrounds and how they became leaders in the senior care sector.- The robust landscape of senior living in Iowa: Learn about the Iowa Healthcare Association’s role in supporting over 800 care facilities and 43,000 caregivers across the state.- The rising demand for senior living: As the baby boomer generation ages, discover how Iowa is preparing to meet the increasing need for quality care.- The unique social model of assisted living in Iowa: Understand how Iowa's regulations prioritize a home-like environment, allowing residents to maintain their independence and dignity.- Community engagement and amenity offerings: Find out how Edencrest communities foster relationships with local residents through various activities and services.Key takeaways from this episode include insights on adapting to the evolving needs of seniors, the importance of community engagement, and how to enhance quality of care while keeping residents' preferences at the forefront. Join us for an informative discussion that sheds light on the future of senior living in Iowa and discover how Highmark is committed to providing exceptional living environments for seniors. Tune in now to learn more about these vital topics!https://iowahealthcare.org/ https://iowahealthcare.org/education/ https://edencrestliving.com/ 

In this episode of Dig It, we dive into the world of neuro-rehabilitation with the incredible team at On With Life—a nationally recognized leader in helping individuals living with brain injury, stroke, and other neurological conditions get back to what matters most. Hear how this nonprofit, tucked away in right here in Ankeny, Iowa, delivers world-class care with cutting-edge programs, compassionate specialists, and life-changing results. We’ll explore the role Hubbell’s Extreme Charity Golf Classic plays in enhancing facilities and care, the success of their Disorders of Consciousness program, and what it means when 79% of patients are able to return home. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a family member, or a supporter of local impact—you’ll walk away inspired and informed.

https://www.onwithlife.org/

https://hubbellrealty.com/about/corporate-responsibility/2025-hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic 

This week on Dig It, we spotlight the inclusive, life-changing work of Easterseals Iowa—a nonprofit supporting thousands of Iowans with disabilities through camp experiences, workforce training, and early childhood programs. Learn how Easterseals is breaking barriers through innovation and compassion, including a look at the transformative Child Development Center built through Hubbell’s 2021 Extreme Build. We’ll hear updates on the childcare expansion, the role Camp Sunnyside plays in creating a sense of belonging, and how organizations like Hubbell are helping to pave the way for more inclusive communities. Expect heartwarming stories, bold visions, and clear ways to get involved.

Guests:

• Krable Mentzer - Chief Communications Officer, Easterseals Iowa 
• Sara Shepherd - CDC Parent 
  Links:
  https://hubbellrealty.com/about/corporate-responsibility/2025-hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic
  https://www.easterseals.com/ia/
  

On the first episode of Dig It's brand new season, we’re joined by leaders from the Alzheimer’s Association of Iowa to explore how this vital organization supports families, caregivers, and individuals facing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Discover how their free services—from support groups and education programs to the 24/7 Helpline—are changing lives statewide. We also discuss how areas like Edencrest Senior Living's ten Cenral Iowa communities integrate these resources to support Iowan's living with the disease, support their caregivers and how charitable partnerships like the Hubbell Extreme Golf Classic are driving awareness and funding. With 6.9 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, this is a conversation we all need to hear.
Links: 
https://hubbellrealty.com/about/corporate-responsibility/2025-hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic - Join the Golf Outing! 
https://www.alz.org/iowa
https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs - 10 Early Signs of Alzheimers 

Buckle up to learn from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) national leadership team during their recent trip to Iowa.

Five senior officers sat down with our own Rachel Flint to discuss Skilled Trades, Build My Future success, how Iowa is setting the standard for homebuilders, and what the market means for the future of homebuilding. Joining the conversation were:

• Carl Harris, NAHB Chairman of the Board

• Buddy Hughes, First Vice Chairman

• Gary Campbell, Second Vice Chairman

• David Lewis, Third Vice Chairman

• Alicia Huey, Immediate Past Chairman

From lobbying efforts, tariffs, materials, and advocacy to the skilled trades pipeline, take a listen to this insightful discussion from the top.

Links:
🔗 NAHB Official Site
🔗 Skilled Trades Program – Central Campus
🔗 NAHB Housing Developments Podcast

Pool? Fitness center? Rooftop patio? How do we select what goes into the next great apartment? Research and feedback of course. We sit down with two team members who do the work, ask the questions and then make the sell in multifamily.

We're switching things up and playing a little game on today's episode. We've brought back our resident TikTok stars from Indigo Living to play a little Renter Real Talk and a Rapid-Fire Round of Renting Like A Pro. There's not a thing you shouldn't know after listening to this one!