In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Rachel Spakes, Affordable Housing Programs Coordinator, leadership coach, and self-described “Department of One,” for an inspiring conversation about human-centered leadership, resident services, and supporting the people behind affordable housing. Listen in to hear Rachel:

• Share her unconventional journey from education and teaching in Japan to creating a first-of-its-kind role in affordable housing, where she helps more than 100 properties navigate resident service requirements while building meaningful support systems for on-site teams.
• Reflect on how the challenges of COVID transformed her focus from compliance alone to employee wellness, leading her to develop trainings, connection initiatives, and practical tools that help property managers navigate stress, isolation, and the realities of multifamily operations.
• Break down why human connection remains irreplaceable in affordable housing, her vision for more flexible and impactful resident service programs, and how empowering managers ultimately creates stronger outcomes for both residents and communities.