Multifamily Women® Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Ever wondered how potential residents really decide where to live? The journey isn't a simple funnel anymore, it's more like a spider web of touchpoints across search engines, review sites, social media, and now AI-powered tools like ChatGPT.

In this fascinating conversation with Carolyn Walentisch, Director of Customer Success at SOCi, we explore how multifamily operators can navigate this complex digital landscape without losing countless hours to repetitive marketing tasks. Carolyn breaks down the three pillars of digital marketing success - reputation, search/SEO, and social media - explaining how these elements have become increasingly interconnected in today's digital ecosystem.

The most eye-opening segment focuses on AI agents that go beyond basic automation. Unlike simple chatbots, SOCi's Genius Reputation agent undergoes training on your specific brand guidelines and can autonomously respond to reviews within minutes while still involving humans for sensitive situations. With 91% of potential renters checking reviews before making decisions, this capability delivers compound benefits across your entire marketing strategy.

We also discuss emerging trends in multifamily marketing, including the shift toward authentic, on-site content over heavily produced materials. Carolyn shares how forward-thinking properties are developing resident ambassador programs to encourage user-generated content that showcases genuine community experiences.

Whether you're already embracing AI tools or approaching them cautiously, you'll appreciate Carolyn's human-centered approach to technology adoption. By focusing on how these tools free up staff to focus on meaningful resident interactions rather than repetitive tasks, multifamily teams can transform their digital presence while improving workplace satisfaction.

Ready to transform your property's digital presence? Visit soci.ai to learn how your marketing efforts can become more streamlined, consistent, and effective across all platforms.

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/

Kerry Kirby's passion for making technology work better for humans radiates throughout this conversation. As founder and CEO of 365 Connect and recent recipient of his company's 100th innovation award, Kerry shares how his team is revolutionizing the multifamily industry by eliminating friction points in the renter journey.

From automating lease processes that eliminate human error to creating AI-powered marketing tools that maintain brand consistency while highlighting unit-specific details, Kerry's vision consistently puts human experience at the center. "We're using AI to create better human experiences," he explains, describing how automation frees property staff from tasks they never signed up for while enabling them to focus on meaningful resident interactions.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Kerry reveals the deeply personal motivation behind the Kerry and Melinda Kirby Foundation. After losing his father to kidney failure at just 33 years old, Kerry developed an innovative partnership between Uber Health, the Kidney Foundation, and Louisiana state government to provide free transportation for dialysis patients statewide. In its first year alone, the program has transported over 580 patients, completed approximately 1,200 rides, and reduced hospitalizations by 40% - a model he hopes will spread nationwide.

As a founding member of the Multifamily Innovation® Council and their Technology & AI Center of Excellence, Kerry emphasizes the unique collaborative environment it provides for industry leaders to share challenges and solutions openly. His advice for aspiring innovators? "Look at your processes, identify what could be better, start strong with one improvement, and build from there." Ready to transform your approach to multifamily technology? Connect with Kerry to learn how innovation can create better experiences for both your team and your residents.

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/

On this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, Host Carrie Antrim introduces the new Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Media for Multifamily Leadership, Lauren Stinson.

Dive into the heart of intentional marketing and uncover how a well-crafted story can elevate your brand and foster deep connections with your audience. Lauren shares actionable tips on leveraging storytelling to create emotional bonds, build loyalty, and stand out in a competitive landscape. Imagine transforming your marketing efforts into a narrative that resonates and engages—this episode reveals exactly how to achieve that.

The discussion also explores the role of automation and AI in multifamily and how it can be utilized in enhancing business operations. Learn how these tools can streamline processes such as content creation and customer engagement, freeing up your team to focus on strategic tasks that drive growth. Hear real-world examples of how automation and AI can optimize your marketing efforts, ensure brand consistency, and improve SEO strategies.

In addition, the episode highlights the upcoming Multifamily Women® Summit, an event that brings together industry leaders to share insights, network, and collaborate. This episode offers a glimpse of the valuable discussions and strategies you can expect at the Summit.

Don't miss this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast. Gain valuable knowledge on marketing strategies, storytelling, and the use of automation and AI to enhance your business operations and lead with confidence in the multifamily industry.

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 of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, hosted by Carrie Antrim, we have the pleasure of welcoming Heather Williams, Vice President of Strategic Solutions at Willow Bridge Property Company. Heather shares her journey and the various factors that have contributed to her remarkable success in the multifamily industry.

The discussion begins with a reminder about the upcoming Multifamily Women Summit, a crucial event for professionals seeking to expand their network and gain industry insights.

Heather Williams attributes her success to several key factors: a collaborative work environment, the embrace of technological advancements, and the unwavering support from her leadership. These elements, she believes, have been instrumental in her professional journey and in executing numerous significant projects across her region.

A central theme of the conversation is the necessity of embracing innovation in the multifamily industry. Heather emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the curve.

Heather also shares her strategies for building effective teams. She stresses the significance of fostering open communication and a feedback culture within the team. According to her, adaptability is a key trait, especially when new initiatives arise or when aligning with investor objectives.

Leadership plays a critical role in the multifamily industry, and Heather highlights the qualities she values in a leader. She looks for individuals who are willing to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing industry landscape.

Mentorship and nurturing new talent are passions for Heather. She discusses her approach to guiding and supporting the professional growth of her team members. This includes creating dynamic job roles tailored to individual strengths, fostering an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

A notable aspect of the discussion is Heather's involvement in the Multifamily Innovation® Council. She shares how the Council has been transformative for her, both personally and professionally.

In closing, Heather offers some powerful advice to the listeners. She encourages embracing risk-taking, committing to continuous learning, and viewing failure as an opportunity for growth. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the face of technological shifts and reminded listeners of the fundamental human element in the work they do - creating homes for people.

Connect with Heather Williams on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-t-williams/

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, host Carrie Antrim engages Katie Battig and Liz Findura from MRI Software in a nuanced discussion about the company's initiatives in fraud prevention and their exploration of AI technology within the real estate sector. While AI often floats around as an industry buzzword, the conversation delves into how MRI Software is actively incorporating it as a tool aimed at supporting organizational efficiency.

Carrie Antrim scrutinizes MRI Software's focus on AI, inviting Katie Battig and Liz Findura to elaborate on its potential to augment on-site staff capabilities and streamline processes. They discuss MRI Software’s emphasis on fraud prevention, explaining how AI can offer an additional layer of security. While the company serves various real estate sectors, including commercial and corporate occupiers, the conversation zeroes in on what this means for high-level multifamily executives who are contemplating technology adoption in their operations.

The episode also covers MRI Software's "open and connected" philosophy, which allows users the option to integrate their products with other platforms, be they from partners or competitors. This aspect is discussed as a reflection of the company's willingness to offer a certain level of customization to meet the divergent needs within the real estate industry.

If staying abreast of the latest trends in AI, fraud prevention, and tech integration is on your priority list, then skipping this episode may leave you trailing behind. Carrie Antrim masterfully guides the conversation to ensure that the value-packed insights serve as a guide for high-level executives seeking to navigate the complex landscape of technology in multifamily real estate. #multifamilyinnovation #multifamilywomen #wearemultifamily

Connect with Our Guests:
MRI Software: https://www.mrisoftware.com/
Katie Battig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-battig-33186114/
Liz Findura: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizfindura/

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/