In this episode of the One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues the conversation with Kurt Carlton, co-founder and president of New Western. They discuss the hurdles and opportunities for creating new housing inventory and the partnership between PadSplit and New Western, focusing on the benefits of coliving as an investment strategy. The conversation covers policy trends, the role of individual real estate investors in addressing affordable housing, and the innovations and challenges in the industry. Carlton shares insights on the importance of activating existing housing stock, the impact of regulatory environments, and the role of technology and AI in improving the investor experience. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions on daily habits, impactful books, and key lessons from entrepreneurship.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:27 The Partnership Between PadSplit and New Western

02:11 Innovative Strategies in Real Estate Investment

03:14 The Role of Technology and Data in Housing Affordability

10:16 Policy and Regulation Impacting Real Estate

16:02 Rapid Fire Q&A with Kurt Carlton

20:35 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Kurt Carlton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtcarlton/

References:

1. PadSplit and New Western’s Partnership: https://www.padsplit.com/newwestern
2. Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss and Tahl Roz: https://a.co/d/4PgbQyS
3. Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://a.co/d/8LfFQ17
4. Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell: https://a.co/d/2yj8vE2

In this bonus episode of One Room at a Time, hosted by Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, the discussion focuses on the past, present, and future constitutional battles surrounding shared housing. Atticus is joined by David Deerson, an attorney at Pacific Legal Foundation, who provides a comprehensive history of zoning laws, significant court cases such as Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co., Belle Terre v. Boraas, and more recent developments in states like Pennsylvania. They delve into the evolving legal interpretations of family definitions and intimate association, and the impact of these precedents on affordable housing. David also discusses the implications of the proposed Golden Girls Bill and shares his prognosis on the future of coliving legislation and legal challenges in the U.S.

00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time

00:25 The Legality of Coliving and Shared Housing

01:10 Guest Introduction: David Deerson from Pacific Legal Foundation

01:39 History and Mission of Pacific Legal Foundation

03:51 Zoning Policy and the Definition of Family

05:16 Supreme Court Cases on Zoning and Family Definitions

12:38 Thurgood Marshall's Dissent and Its Relevance Today

21:33 Recent Developments and Legal Challenges

30:52 The Golden Girls Bill and Model Policy

33:34 Future of Shared Housing Policy

39:53 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with David Deerson via email: [email protected]

References:

1. Pacific Legal Foundation: https://pacificlegal.org/
2. Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co. (1926): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/272/365/
3. Village of Belle Terre v. Boraas (1974): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/416/1/
4. Moore v. City of East Cleveland (1977): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/431/494/
5. City of Cleburne v. Cleburne Living Center (1985): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/473/432/
6. U.S. Department of Agriculture v. Moreno (1973): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/413/528/
7. Doctrine of Intimate Association (via Roberts v. United States Jaycees, 1984): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/468/609/
8. Homeroom v. City of Shawnee (10th Circuit): https://pacificlegal.org/case/shawnee-co-living-ban-housing/
9. PLF Amicus Brief for Havel v. City of Kent (Ohio): https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/pdf_viewer/pdf_viewer.aspx?pdf=989595.pdf&subdirectory=2025-0495\DocketItems&source=DL_Clerk
10. Golden Girls Bill (Pennsylvania): https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb2109
11. Golden Girls Model Policy (Pacific Legal Foundation): https://pacificlegal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-Legislative-Docs-Golden-Girls-Act.pdf
12. Colorado “Bedrooms Are for People” Campaign: https://coloradosun.com/2021/05/27/bedrooms-are-for-people-housing-occupancy-limits/

In this episode of One Room at a Time, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, and guest Kurt Carlton, co-founder and president of New Western, discuss the housing affordability crisis and the critical role real estate investors play in addressing it. They unpack who the true “real estate investors” are, highlighting how individuals are taking on risk to revitalize their own communities. The episode also touches on policy challenges, market dynamics, and the importance of local, small-scale investors in solving the housing supply problem. Listeners are encouraged to understand the true landscape of real estate investing and the value it brings to creating affordable housing solutions.

00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time

00:28 Meet Kurt Carlton: Co-Founder of New Western

01:49 The Beginnings of New Western

03:17 Challenges and Evolution in Real Estate

06:46 Understanding the Real Estate Marketplace

11:44 The Role of Small Real Estate Investors

16:28 Policy and Perception of Real Estate Investors

21:12 The Future of Housing and Partnerships

35:31 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Kurt Carlton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtcarlton/

References:

1. PadSplit and New Western’s Partnership: https://www.padsplit.com/newwestern
2. Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (NHIA): https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2854

In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Pamela Hughes Patenaude. As a housing policy expert and former Deputy Secretary of HUD, Pam shares her proudest achievements, including the early adoption of accessory dwelling units in New Hampshire. The discussion covers trends in housing innovation, barriers to implementation, and potential solutions such as modular construction and better financing options for innovative housing types. Pam also shares insights on mentoring future housing leaders and the importance of federal, state, and local collaboration to address the housing crisis. The episode underscores the need for political courage and regulatory reform to make housing more affordable and accessible.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:32 Pamela's Early Career and ADU Advocacy

02:00 Disaster Recovery and Housing Programs

04:48 Innovations in Housing Construction

09:36 Challenges in Housing Finance

13:29 Mentorship and Career Advice

18:19 Policy Collaboration and Solutions

28:22 Rapid Fire Q&A and Conclusion

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Pamela Hughes Patenaude on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-patenaude-9794847a/

References:

1. ​New Hampshire ADUs: https://www.nhmunicipal.org/sites/default/files/uploads/Guidance_Documents/adus_guidance_revised.pdf
2. Community Development Block Grants: https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/cdbg/
3. Loan Depot: https://www.loandepot.com/
4. Bipartisan Policy Center: https://bipartisanpolicy.org/
5. Habitat for Humanity: https://www.habitat.org/
6. Diplomat on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81288983
7. Wilkes Insurrection and Blockchain Syndicate, by Robbie Bach
8. National Association of Realtors Economic Housing Forecast: https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook
9. Catchlight Crossings in Orlando: https://catchlightcrossings.com/

In this episode of One Room at a Time, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, talks with Pamela Hughes Patenaude, a nationally recognized housing policy expert with over four decades of experience in government, nonprofits, and private industry. They discuss the challenges and changes (or lack thereof) in housing policy over the years, the importance of federal and local regulatory reforms, and the role of shared housing solutions like PadSplit in addressing the affordable housing crisis. Pam shares insights from her extensive career, including her time serving as the deputy secretary of HUD and her motivations for getting and remaining involved in housing policy.

00:00 Introduction and Host Background

00:29 Guest Introduction: Pamela Hughes Patenaude

01:34 Pamela's Journey in Affordable Housing

03:16 Changes and Challenges in Housing Policy

06:24 The Role of PadSplit and Shared Housing

12:48 Federal and Local Housing Policy

22:40 Pamela's Passion and Future Outlook

25:09 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Pamela Hughes Patenaude on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-patenaude-9794847a/

References:

1. LIHTC: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/lihtc.html

In this episode of the One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Leon Orange, an Army veteran turned content creator and PadSplit host. Leon discusses how he utilized his VA loan to purchase his second PadSplit home, rent out rooms, and achieve financial independence with very little upfront costs. He shares his journey about buying his second home, using the profits to quit his job, and transitioning to his passion of running his own photography business. Leon’s story shows the American Dream of home ownership and financial freedom isn’t dead. He discusses how veterans and others can leverage similar strategies to build wealth, focusing on the pros and cons, and the importance of taking calculated steps toward financial empowerment.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Leon's First VA Loan Experience

01:21 Expanding with a Second Property

03:29 Managing Multiple Properties

07:32 Transition to Full-Time Entrepreneurship

14:52 Advice for Aspiring Investors

16:30 Rapid Fire Questions

18:42 Conclusion and Farewell

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Leon Orange on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orangeismedia/ 

Leon’s Company: https://www.orangeismedia.com/ 

Leon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orangeismedia 

References: 

• VA Home Loans: https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/ 
• OIM Creative Studio: https://www.instagram.com/oimcreativestudio 
• Rourke Heath YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rourkeheath 

In this episode of the One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, converses with Leon Orange, a 20-year Army veteran. Leon shares his inspiring journey from military service to real estate investment to creative entrepreneurship. Through his innovative use of financing his first PadSplit through a VA loan, Leon eliminated housing costs and began building wealth by renting out rooms, as an owner-occupant himself. He discusses the challenges and rewards of house hacking, offering practical advice for veterans and aspiring real estate investors. This episode provides valuable insights into leveraging VA loans, managing shared housing, and creating passive income streams. The discussion also highlights Leon's future plans and continued growth in the real estate industry.

00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time Podcast

00:29 Meet Leon Orange: A Journey of Service and Entrepreneurship

01:42 From Military to Real Estate: Leon's Early Challenges

05:05 Discovering PadSplit: A Game-Changer

06:36 Leveraging VA Loans for Real Estate Success

19:15 Operational Insights and Lessons Learned

23:09 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Leon Orange on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orangeismedia/ 

Leon’s Company: https://www.orangeismedia.com/ 

Leon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orangeismedia 

References: 

• VA Home Loans: https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/ 
• OIM Creative Studio: https://www.instagram.com/oimcreativestudio 

In this episode of The One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues the conversation with Heather Wren, the first PadSplit host. Heather shares her experiences of transitioning from managing properties in Atlanta to scaling her investments from abroad. She discusses the upgrades and systems she implemented, how she found local help for property management, and how she continues to expand her portfolio while investing into her residents. Heather also talks about the empathy developed through hosting, the importance of hands-on management, and the evolving dynamics of the coliving property market. She shares inspiring stories, such as mentoring Kiara, a PadSplit member turned Host, and offers advice to prospective coliving hosts. The episode highlights both the personal and financial impacts of strategic property investment and management.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

00:29 Heather's Journey from Atlanta to Spain

02:42 Scaling the PadSplit Business

05:27 Becoming a Successful PadSplit Host

10:47 Training the Next Generation of Hosts

16:39 Rapid Fire Questions

21:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Heather Wren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-wren-870807b/ 

Heather’s new coliving services: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​

Heather’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​

References: 

• PadSplit Host Resources: https://www.padsplit.com/hosts 
• Cook’s Illustrated Green Bean Casserole: https://www.americastestkitchen.com/recipes/3182-classic-green-bean-casserole
• The Best Cookbook: https://a.co/d/8pXSnh3 
• Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki: https://a.co/d/dDTOYzr 
• Architect Santiago Calatrava: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santiago_Calatrava 

In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder, and CEO of PadSplit, chats with his longtime friend and real estate partner, Heather Wren. Heather shares her journey from accidental landlord to a successful real estate investor with a portfolio of over 20 properties. The conversation highlights her initial struggles, lessons learned, and the transformative impact of coliving on her life and the lives of her tenants. From humorous anecdotes to touching human stories, Heather and Atticus delve into the unique challenges and rewards of coliving and community building. The episode also features inspiring stories about tenants like Amber, who went from living in her car to running a successful business and aspiring to become a property owner herself.

00:00 Introduction to the One Room at A Time Podcast

00:40 Meet Heather Wren: Accidental Landlord to Real Estate Investor

02:04 Heather's Early Real Estate Journey

04:49 Challenges and Lessons Learned

11:13 Discovering PadSplit and the First Prototype

12:28 Becoming a PadSplit Host

18:51 Human Stories and Community Impact

25:51 Amber's Transformation: From Homeless to Entrepreneur

31:29 Conclusion and What's Next

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Heather Wren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-wren-870807b/ ​

References:

1. Heather’s new coliving services: https://www.colivingsuccess.com/
2. Heather's new Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​
3. PadSplit Host Resources: https://www.padsplit.com/hosts
4. B Squared Cleaners: https://www.bsquaredcleaners.com/
5. PadSplit Member Amber’s story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdradwnLVfo

In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Eric Kronberg, a housing advocate and principal at Kronberg Urbanists + Architects. They delve into tactics for advocating better housing policy with city officials, including the significance of understanding development math. Eric discusses the importance of incremental change with various levels of policymakers and the flaws in current zoning codes. The episode highlights cities effectively implementing progressive housing policies and the potential role of AI taking shape at housing companies. Eric also shares his insights on the importance of public engagement and how even minimal participation can drive significant change.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:48 Incremental Development and Zoning Challenges

03:56 Overcoming Political and Social Barriers

09:18 State vs. Local Housing Policies

22:57 AI in Housing Reform

30:35 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast

Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/

Connect with Eric Kronberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kronberg-36289ba/ 

Learn more about Eric's company: kronbergua.com​

References: 

• Incremental Development Alliance​: https://www.incrementaldevelopment.org/ 
• YIMBY Action: https://yimbyaction.org/ 
• Abundant Housing Atlanta: https://abundanthousingatlanta.org/
• UCLA Housing Voice Podcast featuring Evan Mast: https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/2024/09/18/encore-episode-market-rate-development-and-neighborhood-rents-with-evan-mast/ 
• Gov. Brian Kemp’s Office, Workforce Housing Grants: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-06-18/gov-kemp-announces-latest-workforce-housing-grant-awards 
• Mercatus Center: https://www.mercatus.org/
•  American Legislative Exchange Council: https://alec.org/
• Sightline Institute: https://www.sightline.org/
• City of Thomasville, Ga. Planning and Zoning: https://thomasville.org/departments/planning-zoning 
• City of Durham, N.C. Expanding Housing Choices: https://www.durhamnc.gov/3679/Expanding-Housing-Choices 
• The Reactionary Mind by Corey Robin: https://coreyrobin.com/books/the-reactionary-mind/ 
• The Ultimate Hidden Truth of the World by David Graeber: https://davidgraeber.org/books/the-ultimate-hidden-truth-of-the-world/
• The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graeber: https://davidgraeber.org/books/the-dawn-of-everything-a-new-history-of-humanity/ 
• Congress for the New Urbanism: https://www.cnu.org/