The Unconventional Project

The Unconventional Project

By Vanessa GraysonBusinessCareers
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The Unconventional Project episodes

  • 008 - Personal Branding: Behind the Ego

    What happens when you push yourself to the edge of comfort—physically, mentally, and professionally?
    In this episode of The Unconventional Project, host Vanessa Grayson shares the personal breakthroughs she experienced during a 72-hour fast and how it brought fresh clarity to her leadership and branding journey.
    Vanessa unpacks the often misunderstood world of personal branding, tackling the criticism it receives and revealing how authenticity and representation are essential—not optional—in making a lasting impact.
    Whether you're in the multifamily industry or building your influence in any field, this episode challenges you to lead with purpose, represent with intention, and live in a way that aligns with your legacy.
    In this episode, we explore:
    🔹 Why is personal branding criticized, and what makes it truly powerful and authentic?
    🔹 What lessons a 72-hour fast taught about clarity, discipline, and identity in leadership.
    🔹 The reality: Representation in branding helps build trust, connection, and lasting influence.
    🔹 How embracing the unconventional can elevate your message, impact, and leadership legacy.
    🎧 Listen now and join the conversation on what personal branding really means in today's world.
    💬 Found this episode thought-provoking? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the conversations going and growing!
    🎯 Click subscribe @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our vast network of multifamily professional-hosted podcasts covering all the industry hot topics!
    🌐 Visit www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to sign up for our newsletter and browse our extensive library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily leaders!
    #TheUnconventionalProject #VanessaGrayson #AuthenticLeadership #PersonalBranding #LegacyDriven #MultifamilyIndustry #UnconventionalThinking #RepresentationMatters #DisciplineAndGrowth #LeadershipClarity

    34 min
  • 007 - Showing Up on Purpose: The Role of Discipline

    What does it really take to lead with discipline—especially when no one’s watching? In this episode of The Unconventional Project, Vanessa Grayson gets real about the quiet strength of leadership that shows up, stays the course, and remains consistent even without applause. She shares stories from her own life—including the challenge of a 72-hour fast—to unpack the personal cost and long-term rewards of disciplined leadership.
    Vanessa explores how discipline shapes not only individual growth but also team culture, trust, and empowerment. This episode is an invitation to pause and examine your own leadership habits—are you leading by preference or by purpose?
    In this episode, we cover:
    🔹 Why is discipline often the missing ingredient in leadership that lasts?
    🔹 What it means to lead with consistency, feedback, and personal accountability.
    🔹 The foundation of psychological safety begins with a leader’s self-discipline and presence.
    🔹 How disciplined leadership can strengthen your team’s trust, culture, and overall success.
    🎧 Tune in now and explore how your leadership style could be holding back—or unlocking—your team’s potential.
    👍 If this episode challenged or encouraged you, be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations!
    🎯 Click subscribe @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our vast network of multifamily professional-hosted podcasts covering all the industry hot topics!
    🌐 Visit www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to sign up for our newsletter and browse our extensive library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily leaders!
    #TheUnconventionalProject #VanessaGrayson #LeadershipMatters #DisciplinedLeadership #TeamCulture #PurposeOverPreference #SelfAwareness #PsychologicalSafety #LeadWithExcellence #GrowthMindset

    36 min
  • 006 - The Power of No: Embracing Redirection

    Rejection is never easy—but what if it’s not the end, but a new beginning? In this episode of The Unconventional Project, Vanessa Grayson shares how shifting your perspective on rejection can transform setbacks into setups for success. She reminds us that a "no" isn’t a reflection of our worth but a redirection toward something even greater.
    Through personal stories and powerful insights, Vanessa challenges us to embrace rejection as a stepping stone, not a stumbling block. If you've ever struggled with hearing "no," this episode will leave you encouraged, empowered, and ready to face challenges with a fresh mindset.
    In this episode, we discuss:
    🔹 Why does rejection feel so personal, and how can we shift our mindset around it?
    🔹 What lessons can we learn from setbacks that make us stronger and more resilient?
    🔹 The truth: Every successful person has faced rejection—what sets them apart is how they respond to it.
    🔹 How can you turn a ‘no’ into a powerful opportunity for growth and redirection?
    🎧 Listen now and start embracing rejection as a tool for success!
    💬 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!
    Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay updated on our vast network of multifamily professionals hosting podcasts on all the industry hot topics!
    👉 Visit www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to sign up for our newsletter and explore an extensive library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily leaders!
    #RejectionIsRedirection #Resilience #GrowthMindset #Leadership #TheUnconventionalProject #VanessaGrayson #EmotionalIntelligence

    27 min
  • 005 - Lessons from the Locker Room: Building a High-Performance Workplace

    Success in business isn’t just about strategies and profits—it’s about culture. In this episode of The Unconventional Project, host Vanessa Grayson uncovers surprising connections between youth basketball and the dynamics of company culture.
    Drawing from personal experiences with her son's team, she highlights how teamwork, resilience, accountability, and passion play a crucial role in both sports and the workplace.
    What can business leaders learn from the court?
    How can a strong culture shape success in the multifamily industry and beyond? Vanessa challenges listeners to reflect on their own team environments and consider meaningful changes to foster a winning culture.
    In This Episode:
    -Why is teamwork the foundation of both winning teams and thriving companies?
    -What role does resilience play in overcoming challenges and setbacks?
    -The key to accountability: how taking ownership transforms team performance.
    -How can leaders cultivate passion and engagement within their organizations?
    Hit play to gain insights that will reshape the way you think about leadership, teamwork, and company culture!
    🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more unconventional wisdom on leadership and success. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share to support the show!
    Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay updated on our vast network of multifamily professionals hosting podcasts on all the industry hot topics!
    👉 Visit www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to sign up for our newsletter and explore an extensive library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily leaders!
    #Leadership #CompanyCulture #Teamwork #Success #Resilience #Passion #BusinessGrowth #MultifamilyIndustry #Accountability #PersonalDevelopment

    30 min
  • 004 - The Brick Wall: Realigning Purpose, Passion and Potential | The Unconventional Podcast

    Realigning Your Three Ps: Navigating Purpose, Passion, and Potential | The Unconventional Project

    Ever feel like you’re hitting a brick wall, but can’t quite figure out why? It happens to many of us but can be hard to talk about. Let’s break down how to find your way back to purpose, passion, and potential together!
    Welcome to The Unconventional Project! I’m your host, Vanessa Grayson, and today, I’m sharing a deeply personal episode about something we all experience but rarely talk about—hitting a brick wall. It’s been a minute since our last episode and I wanted to open up about what I’ve been going through, how I’ve been navigating these challenges, and what I’m doing to get back on track.
    Join me as I explore my journey of realigning the three Ps: purpose, passion, and potential. Whether you’re a busy professional, a dedicated parent, or - like so many of us - juggling multiple roles, we all face moments when we feel overwhelmed and lost. I’m here to tell you that it’s okay to take a step back, reassess, and redefine what truly matters to you.
    In this episode, I talk about:
    • The importance of recognizing when you’re out of alignment
    • How to identify and tackle your “three Ps”
    • The impact of societal expectations on personal growth
    • Practical steps to reclaim your balance and move forward
    If you’re feeling stuck or simply need a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode is for you. Let’s reconnect with our passions, redefine our purpose, and unlock our full potential together!
    If this episode resonated with you, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe to The Unconventional Project for more authentic conversations, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s keep this journey real and raw!
    Please visit @MultifamilyMediaNetwork for podcasts focused on the important topics for multifamily pros. Enjoy marketing, leasing, maintenance, operations, and leadership podcasts designed to expand your knowledge and support your growth.

    28 min
  • 003 - Vanessa Grayson and Ricky McRoy - The Unconventional Project

    Welcome to a special episode of The Unconventional Project with your host, Vanessa Grayson, brought to you live from the NAA Apartmentalize trade show floor at the Chadwell Supply Booth.


    In this episode, we are privileged to speak with Ricky McRoy, Senior Regional Director with Avanti Residential.


    Ricky shares his 22-year journey in the multifamily industry, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and importance of representation and leadership.


    Key Highlights:


    Introduction and Background: Ricky McRoy's journey into the multifamily industry.


    Overcoming Challenges: Navigating the multifamily industry as a minority and overcoming obstacles.


    Leadership and Representation: The significance of diversity in leadership roles.


    Empowering Teams: Ricky's approach to leading and empowering his diverse team.


    Future Goals: Ricky's aspirations and advice for future leaders in the industry.


    Chapters:


    00:00 - 00:27: Introduction by Vanessa Grayson

    00:27 - 01:10: Preparing for the podcast and setting up the conversation

    01:10 - 04:04: Ricky McRoy’s introduction and journey into multifamily

    04:04 - 06:05: Challenges faced and overcoming obstacles

    06:05 - 07:41: The importance of representation in leadership

    07:41 - 09:24: Ricky’s impactful panel discussion at AAKC

    09:24 - 11:49: Continuing the conversation on diversity and representation

    11:49 - 12:24: Spotlight on Ricky’s diverse and dynamic team

    12:24 - 14:59: Ricky’s leadership style and empowering his team

    14:59 - 17:32: Vanessa's personal experiences and appreciation for Ricky’s leadership

    17:32 - 19:07: The importance of having representation in executive leadership

    19:07 - 20:42: Ricky's advice for future leaders and emphasizing perseverance

    20:42 - 23:04: Recognizing the support from influential leaders and making a difference

    23:04 - 24:52: Final thoughts and gratitude from Ricky and Vanessa


    Sponsored by Chadwell Supply, a leading provider of maintenance supplies and solutions for the multifamily industry.


    For more episodes and insights, visit MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com.


    Call to Action:


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories and industry insights.


    Comment below with your thoughts on the importance of diversity and representation in leadership.


    Visit https://www.MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com for more episodes and resources.
































































    NAA Apartmentalize, The Unconventional Project, Vanessa Grayson, Ricky McRoy, Chadwell Supply, multifamily industry, diversity in leadership, representation, overcoming obstacles, empowering teams, property management, leadership success, multifamily media network


    Hashtags:

    #NAAApartmentalize #TheUnconventionalProject #MultifamilyMediaNetwork #VanessaGrayson #RickyMcRoy #DiversityInLeadership #RepresentationMatters #EmpoweringTeams #PropertyManagement #LeadershipSuccess

    24 min
  • 002 - It's time to RISE: Reimagining Inclusive Spaces for Equity - The Unconventional Project

    Equity and Opportunity: Tiana Heath’s Journey in Multifamily Leadership

    Welcome back to another episode of The Unconventional Project!
    I’m your host, Vanessa Grayson, and today I’m excited to chat with a truly genuine and authentic leader, Tiana Heath. I've had the pleasure of knowing Tiana for years, and her journey is nothing short of remarkable!
    Tiana is a well-seasoned professional in the multifamily industry and currently serves on the DEI commission of Parkville. She is making waves in the industry with her dedication to equity and inclusion.
    In this episode, we cover:
    * Tiana’s impactful journey from the Midwest to her dream role at the National Apartment Association in Virginia
    * The importance of equity in the workplace and how diverse teams drive success
    * Personal anecdotes on overcoming challenges and the power of representation
    * Insights on fostering inclusive environments and the significance of having diverse voices at the table
    * Practical advice on making meaningful connections and supporting equity in your organization
    Tiana shares her experiences, from winning the Manager of the Year at AAKC’s Crystal Merit Awards to her current role at NAA.
    Her journey highlights the power of authentic leadership and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen and heard.
    Don’t miss this enlightening conversation! Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode.
    Visit www.MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com for more inspiring stories and industry insights. Subscribe to this channel for free access to multifamily content focused on every facet of the industry.
    Thank you to Widewail, our sponsor for this episode. www.widewail.com/data
    Equity in leadership, Tiana Heath, The Unconventional Project, Vanessa Grayson, multifamily industry, DEI in workplace, National Apartment Association, career journey, authentic leadership, diverse teams, professional growth, multifamily real estate, industry insights
    #EquityInLeadership #MultifamilyIndustry #TheUnconventionalProject #TianaHeath #DiverseTeams #CareerJourney #AuthenticLeadership #VanessaGrayson #WorkplaceEquity #NAAProud #InspiringStories #ProfessionalGrowth

    46 min
  • 001 - Fearless Leading: Thriving at the Helm - The Unconventional Project

    Empowering Leadership in the Multifamily Industry with host Vanessa Grayson and featuring guest Dominique Pierce - The Unconventional Project

    Welcome to The Unconventional Project!
    In today's episode, we have an extraordinary guest who embodies the essence of leadership and resilience in the multifamily industry — Dominique Pierce.
    Dominique, a two-time AAKC Apartment Manager of the Year, has nearly a decade of experience in the multifamily sector.
    She is joining us today to share her journey, from beginning in leasing to becoming an influential leader, and how she navigated the challenges and triumphs along the way.
    In this episode, we delve into:
    Dominique's transition from HR back to team leadership
    The importance of active listening and understanding employee goals
    Strategies for breaking complacency and fostering innovation
    Personal stories of overcoming undervaluation and imposter syndrome
    The power of authentic leadership and staying true to oneself
    Dominique's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to grow within the multifamily industry or in any leadership role. Her dedication to empowering her teams and leading with authenticity is truly inspiring.
    Visit www.MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com for more insightful content and resources on topics across the multifamily spectrum.
    Please remember to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes of The Unconventional Project! Please share your comments - what you want to talk about, was this episode relatable and inspirational, and where you think we could use some constructive feedback.
    multifamily industry, leadership, Dominique Pierce, Vanessa Grayson, The Unconventional Project, apartment manager, employee engagement, authentic leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, multifamilymedia network, property management
    #MultifamilyLeaders #LeadershipJourney #ApartmentManagement #EmployeeEngagement #AuthenticLeadership #OvercomingImposterSyndrome #MultifamilyMediaNetwork #TheUnconventionalProject #professionaldevelopment #personaldevelopment #careerjourney

    43 min

About The Unconventional Project

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The Unconventional Project is a mission to shine light on the thoughts and experiences of divinely cultivated leaders on an out of the ordinary pathway to success. This platform was created to…