Multifamily Women® Podcast

Ever wondered how someone can transition from a leasing agent to an industry principal? Join us as we chat with Krista Hurley from RealPage, who shares her inspiring journey and the innovative strides she's making in the multifamily industry. Krista sheds light on her role in identifying market challenges and creating products that elevate the customer experience and streamline tasks for on-site teams. From RealPage's cutting-edge AI platform, Lumina, to a heartfelt story from her early career, this conversation is packed with insights and exciting advancements transforming the industry.

In another fascinating segment, we explore the empowering impact of attending the Women's Summit and how such events foster personal and professional growth. Krista discusses the vital role of female leaders and the incredible support from the Empower Her employee resource group. Learn about RealPage's unique one-family culture and its dedication to long-term customer relationships. Balancing work and life responsibilities, especially for women in demanding careers, is no small feat, and Krista shares her strategies for managing it all—from self-care routines to overcoming 'mom guilt.' Tune in for a discussion that's as inspiring as it is informative.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

What if overcoming a personal challenge could ignite a passion for transforming an entire industry? Sarah Saglam, VP of Sales and Marketing at LeaseHawk, joins us with her incredible story of how her son's rare genetic disorder introduced her to the power of technology. Sarah's journey led her to LeaseHawk, where she has spent nearly 13 years driving innovation and success in the multifamily sector. Her firsthand experience with the life-changing impact of tech solutions infuses her work with purpose and dedication. 

Tune in as Sarah unveils the groundbreaking tools LeaseHawk offers, such as their virtual leasing assistant and the upcoming ACE insights. These AI-driven solutions are designed to enhance the leasing team's efficiency and ensure consistent and effective engagement with potential residents. With ACE insights, managers can now analyze traffic and team performance, providing valuable metrics and training opportunities. This episode highlights how a well-supported leasing team can make a stellar first impression and deliver exceptional resident experiences, proving that the right technology can indeed make life easier and more productive.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Can simplifying the rental process revolutionize the real estate market? Join us as we chat with Jami Thomas, Vice President of Sales at Zillow, who takes us through her incredible journey from starting on Zillow's for-sale side in 2011 to her current impactful role in Zillow Rentals. Hear firsthand how Jamie, with her extensive experience and insights, is driving Zillow's mission to transform the rental experience for 17 million annual renters in the U.S. Learn about Zillow's innovative solutions like universal applications and how the company's dedication to inclusivity and customer-centric values are setting new industry standards.

In this episode, Jami offers profound career advice, particularly for women aspiring to leadership roles. Discover the importance of authenticity, forming meaningful connections, and the value of having a personal advisory board. Jamie also shines a light on Zillow’s supportive company culture, which fosters long-term employee retention and a fulfilling work environment. Additionally, hear about Zillow's role in the Multifamily Women's Summit and why this partnership is crucial for empowering women in the multifamily industry. This conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to grow in their career or understand the future of the rental market.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Ever wondered how an unexpected start can lead to a thriving career in leadership? Join us as we sit down with Laura Khouri, president of Western National Property Management, who began her remarkable journey in 1985 as a "gal Friday" and rose to the top by 2010. 

Laura shares her inspiring story, emphasizing the vital role mentorship and continuous learning played in her ascent. She provides invaluable insights into leadership, navigating responsibilities across human resources, risk management, and training, and the critical importance of supporting her team during challenging times like the pandemic.

In this episode, we also explore the forward-thinking strategies that have modernized Western National Property Management (WMPM). Laura discusses the company's transition to a new learning management system, their ambitious rebranding efforts, and the importance of cross-department collaboration. 

She highlights the value of participating in industry councils and shares her excitement for her upcoming keynote at the Women's Summit, which focuses on innovation and leadership. Laura's insights demonstrate how WMPM is staying ahead of the curve by embracing change and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Lastly, we delve into the lessons learned from leadership mistakes and the power of vulnerability. Laura recounts a pivotal early-career mistake that led to significant company policy changes, illustrating the importance of owning errors and learning from them. We highlight the company's successful employee retention strategies during the pandemic and their dynamic marketing partnership with the NHL's Anaheim Ducks, showcasing how creative approaches can drive both business success and community impact. Listen in to discover how fostering innovation and collaboration can build resilient, thriving careers and businesses.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Unlock the secrets to career growth and inclusivity in the multifamily industry with Cindi Reed, Director of Sales, and Kim Lendway, Director of Business Development from MRI Software, sponsors of the upcoming Multifamily Women® Summit.

Kim takes us through her remarkable 25-year journey in the field, celebrating a milestone five-year anniversary with MRI, while Cindi shares her transition from ApartmentData.com to her pivotal role at MRI. We explore MRI's rich history since 1971, its comprehensive technology platform, and heartfelt commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Cindi highlights essential support groups like Women and Allies, Women in Leadership, and PRISM, all aimed at fostering employee empowerment and career advancement.

Discover how MRI Engage, a flexible CRM and communications tool, revolutionizes multifamily housing management by optimizing leasing results and enhancing resident communication. We'll delve into the power of customization, automated income verification, and seamless integrations with point solutions. 

Cindi and Kim offer career advice, underscoring the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and building genuine connections that become vital resources for problem-solving and career growth in multifamily. Don't miss this opportunity to gather practical solutions and innovative ideas from two industry trailblazers.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

On today's episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, Marcia Bollinger, Senior Vice President of Apartments.com, takes us on a captivating journey through her remarkable four-decade career in the multifamily housing industry. Marcia reveals how she accidentally discovered her passion for the field right out of college and played a pivotal role in shifting apartment listings from print to digital. 

This episode explores the evolution of consumer behavior and how online information empowers potential renters to make more informed decisions. Marcia's story illustrates the dynamic changes in the industry and the continuous need to adapt to meet consumer demands.

We delve into the multifaceted paths to success within the multifamily industry, with a special focus on the importance of empowerment and community. Marcia and I discuss the unique challenges women face and the invaluable support that comes from a collaborative mindset, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We share personal experiences and emphasize how horizontal growth—gaining knowledge across various roles—can be just as fulfilling as vertical progression. This discussion underscores the importance of continuous learning, embracing change, and fostering a supportive network for women in multifamily leadership.

Marcia also gives us a sneak peek into the innovative developments at Apartments.com, including the integration of the build-to-rent space and Homes.com. We talk about the importance of providing detailed unit-level information to prospective renters, making their decision-making process more efficient. 

Learn about the strategic efforts and forward-thinking leadership at Apartments.com, which dedicates significant resources to research and identifying emerging trends, ensuring that both consumers and industry professionals are well-supported and informed.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

What happens when you bring a multifaceted leader like Kim Senn Cross onto our show? You get a treasure trove of insights from her inspiring journey that spans over three decades in the multifamily industry. Kim, who started her career at Lincoln Property Company in 1990, has navigated through significant roles at an internet startup, RealPage, and Prime Group before eventually founding her own boutique consulting firm, The KSC Group.

In this episode, Kim candidly shares the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on the diverse services offered by KSC Group, from business applications and managed services to specialized training for property management companies. Kim also opens up about the unique challenges she's faced as a woman entrepreneur and emphasizes the importance of trusted advisors and continuous learning in overcoming these hurdles.

Networking and maintaining relationships are critical in any industry, and Kim provides a masterclass in the art of building connections. We explore the value of events like the Women's Summit in fostering both professional networks and personal friendships. Kim reminisces about reunions with past colleagues and underscores the importance of never burning bridges. This chapter also delves into the excitement around new technologies like nectarflow™ AI and automation, emphasizing how industry advocates play a pivotal role in driving innovation. We also discuss team dynamics and how having a single point of contact for clients can enhance service delivery while ensuring team flexibility and skill development.

Embracing innovation is not without its discomforts, especially with the rapid advancements in AI and cybersecurity. Kim speaks passionately about the necessity for proper education to alleviate these fears and encourages leaders to embrace rather than shy away from these changes. She highlights the importance of industry advocates like KSC Group in helping companies navigate these shifts. 

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode, listeners will learn the secrets behind building strong, lasting partnerships with builders, owners, and developers, directly from Ileana Ferguson, the Strategic Account Manager for Moen. Ileana shares her inspiring journey from Mexico City to becoming an influential figure in the plumbing industry. 

Listeners will discover how a supportive work environment propelled her from overcoming initial language challenges to making significant strides in a traditionally male-dominated field. Ileana opens up about what sets Moen apart—from its innovative product line and solid brand reputation to a company culture that genuinely cares for its employees and customers.

Moen believes that everyday experiences inspire their designs. Since day one, Moen has used customer insight to drive its design process, resulting in a long history of creating innovative and reliable products with timeless styles. Whether delivering better performance in high-use environments, greatly improving water savings, or marrying modern fixtures to century-old plumbing, Moen Commercial helps create crucial solutions and achieve ambitious objectives. 

Repeatedly, Moen has lowered materials and maintenance costs and given customers a far greater level of confidence. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Moen continues to set the standard in the industry, ensuring that every drop of water is used efficiently and effectively.

The episode goes beyond just the personal journey. The discussion delves into the transformative power of mentorship and industry connections, highlighting Moen's forward-thinking approach to water conservation and cost-effective solutions like their lead detection system. With a network of 200 salespeople across the nation, Moen ensures unparalleled support and resources for its partners.

Don't forget to grab summit tickets at multifamilywomen.com and stay tuned for more invaluable industry insights in the next episode.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Unlock the secrets of thriving in the multifamily industry with Michelle Childers, Vice President of Industry Relations at Chadwell Supply, as she shares her inspiring journey from leasing consultant to industry leader. Discover how Michelle’s transition to Chadwell was shaped by the family-like culture that defines their work environment. 

Chadwell Supply is the largest privately owned Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) supply company in the United States. Exclusively focused on serving multifamily communities, their team partners with property owners, managers, and maintenance professionals, working hard every day to make their lives easier. Their success is a direct result of a passion for providing unforgettable service. Chadwell Supply is a knowledgeable, solution-oriented partner their customers know they can trust.

Gain insights into the importance of supportive workplace dynamics and how family involvement can create a nurturing atmosphere that boosts morale and productivity.

Ever wondered how the complexities of managing sponsorships and client relationships are tackled in property management? Michelle dives into the intricate balancing act of resource allocation, from local to national responsibilities, and the importance of supporting charitable initiatives. 

Learn the critical role of communication, honesty, and proactive engagement in maintaining strong client partnerships, and explore the impact of her charitable activities and strategies for effective industry relationship management.

Michelle also shares her firsthand experiences with key industry events like the Multifamily Women® Summit. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the collaborative spirit of her marketing team and the value of genuine connections over traditional trade show formats. 

Plus, hear about the transformative power of routine during the COVID-19 pandemic and the exciting world of podcasting as a vital communication tool within the multifamily industry. Join us for an episode filled with actionable insights and inspiring stories that highlight the importance of community and innovation in multifamily housing.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode, we have Heidi Arave-Noonan, Chief Operating Officer of Liv Communities. Heidi has not only graced the stage at the Multifamily Women® Summit but is also an esteemed member of the Multifamily Innovation® Council.

Heidi, who has been with Liv Communities for nearly 15 years, shares her inspiring journey in the multifamily industry, which spans almost three decades. She describes Liv Communities as embodying everything she believes the industry could and should be. Initially starting her career as a part-time leasing consultant, Heidi’s path saw her rise through various roles, including national training positions and sales, before finding her long-term home at Liv Communities.

Heidi discusses the importance of aligning with a company that shares her values and vision. She highlights the transformative rebranding journey to Liv Communities and the honor it has been to help shape the company’s direction. Heidi emphasizes the importance of passion in one’s career and how this passion has fueled her professional growth and contributions to the industry.

Heidi also delves into her experiences at the Multifamily Women® Summit. Initially introduced to the Summit through her colleagues, Heidi quickly saw the value and decided to attend with more team members. She describes the Summit as a soul-filling experience, fostering deep connections and professional growth. Her involvement has grown over the years, from attendee to speaker, and now a more significant role in planning and infusing sessions with her knowledge and experience.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around innovation and the importance of being open to new ideas and technologies. Heidi shares her experiences working with vendors to customize tools and AI solutions that align with Liv Communities’ brand and operational needs. She emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions, seeking out partnerships that are willing to innovate, and the value of testing and measuring the effectiveness of new technologies.

Heidi’s participation in the Multifamily Innovation® Council has been instrumental in her professional journey. She appreciates the collaborative environment that allows industry leaders to share ideas, challenge each other, and collectively push the boundaries of innovation. The Council provides a platform for candid discussions, where members can explore unconventional ideas and support each other in driving industry-wide improvements.

Heidi expresses her enthusiasm for the future of the multifamily industry and encourages listeners to get involved with initiatives like the Multifamily Women® Summit. She highlights the critical role of providing exceptional homes and workplaces for residents and employees, emphasizing the honor and responsibility that comes with this mission.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/