In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Monica Gracia, Senior Vice President of Operations at Dayrise Residential, LLC - whose journey from surviving domestic violence as a single mother with just $36 to her name to becoming SVP of Operations is nothing short of extraordinary. Monica opens up about her upbringing in Brownsville, Texas, the cultural and family pressures that shaped her early life, and the challenges she faced in an abusive marriage.Monica shares the turning point that gave her the strength to break free, the years of struggle and rebuilding that followed, and the unwavering support she found in her community and workplace. Through candid conversation, she discusses the emotional and financial hardships of single motherhood, the importance of asking for help, and the role of faith and gratitude in her healing.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode of Humans Of Multifamily Shiv Gettu sits down with Donna Schmidt, Chief Operating Officer at Price Brothers, as she shares her remarkable journey from cleaning apartments in college to leading a 102-year-old property management company. In this episode, Donna discusses the evolution of the multifamily industry, the challenges and opportunities of embracing new technology, and the importance of balancing legacy with innovation. She offers valuable insights on building community, driving resident retention, and redefining roles in property management for the modern era. Whether you’re a real estate professional or simply interested in leadership and organizational change, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and forward-thinking perspectives.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Jillian Fikkert Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Buckingham Companies, a dynamic marketing leader whose work spans shopping malls, multifamily housing, and beyond. Jillian dives into her career journey, starting from her solo move at 24 to a multifamily career shaped by innovation and AI. Jillian emphasizes the evolving nature of multifamily tech, especially post-COVID, likening the shift to a renaissance. She shares insights on centralizing leasing operations and using AI to revolutionize rent collections and marketing budgets. Jillian also opens up about her personal life, discussing her upbringing in Massachusetts, family life, and the balancing act of professional and personal priorities. This episode offers a deep dive into the future of multifamily marketing and the human touch in a tech-driven world.
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Dalia Kalgreen, Vice President of Business Development at Unified Residential Management, to uncover the story behind one of the industry’s most dynamic leaders.Dalia opens up about her philosophy of leadership rooted in curiosity, authenticity, and adaptability. She shares how she’s embracing AI in property management, not as a replacement for people, but as a way to amplify human connection. From rent collection automation to privacy ethics, Dalia offers a thoughtful blueprint for how to stay both efficient and empathetic in a digital age.Dalia also hosts the She Suite Society podcast, a space for real talk and real leadership. And her entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there—she founded Strap Grip, a clever innovation born from her soccer mom life and built in honor of her late mother, with proceeds that give back to causes close to her heart.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Kara Thompson, VP of Operations at Oakwood Management Company, to discuss her remarkable journey from hairdresser to multifamily industry leader. After a divorce left Kara seeking both employment and housing, a chance encounter led her to a career in property management. Kara opens up about her early life being raised by a single mother in Columbus, Ohio, the challenges of overcoming anxiety, and her non-traditional path to success. Throughout the conversation, Kara emphasizes the importance of empathy, relationship-building, and hard work. She also shares innovative strategies implemented at Oakwood and her views on the balance between technology and personalization in property management. This episode provides an inspiring look at resilience, leadership, and the value of human connection in the multifamily industry.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Ariel Baranauckas, Vice President of Marketing and Recruiting at Carter Haston. Ariel shares how she didn't intend to build a career in property management but ascended from a part-time leasing job to her current executive role, driven by a passion for people rather than titles. She elaborates on juggling career and personal life, especially after becoming a mother. Ariel highlights her leadership approach, emphasizing empathy, and detail-oriented property management. She discusses the impact of AI on improving operational efficiency without removing the human touch. Ariel also sheds light on the 'In Your Shoes' campaign, aimed at understanding the daily challenges of onsite teams to further improve their work experience and resident interactions. Tune in for a masterclass in people-first leadership and innovative strategies in the multifamily industry.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Jon Cooke, Vice President of Operations at Bell Partners, Inc., to explore his inspiring journey from leasing agent to executive. Jon shares how curiosity, mentorship, and a willingness to ask questions shaped his career. The discussion highlights the importance of vulnerability and gratitude in leadership and delves into the evolving role of technology in property management. Jon emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human interaction and personal touch in fostering resident satisfaction and retention, while also exploring the potential for AI to automate routine tasks. The conversation concludes with thoughts on building strong teams and the impact of genuine care and attention on both resident experiences and property performance.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn.
In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Myles Cunningham, Myles Cunningham Managing Partner & CIO at Audubon, a rising leader in multifamily. Myles shares the challenges of balancing his visionary role in real estate investments with personal life, highlighting his struggle with stress-induced insomnia and his journey to finding a healthier work-life balance through mentorship, mental health awareness, and religious faith. He discusses the influence of his parents' hard work and dedication, his practical learning style, and how the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS) has transformed his company's operations. Myles also dives into his childhood in Mobile, Alabama, his father's entrepreneurial ventures, and the importance of building a reliable team. Reflecting on the cost of ambition, Myles emphasizes the significance of setting long-term goals while maintaining personal relationships and family life. He candidly shares his experiences of offering to work for free to break into the industry and provides insights on how aspiring professionals can create value early in their careers by being dependable and proactive.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn.
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Kevin Owens, President of Property Management at RKW Residential, to discuss his journey from a small-town upbringing in South Carolina to leading operations for over 30,000 multifamily units. Kevin shares how his early experiences working on construction sites, his family’s values, and a winding career path, from psychiatric hospitals to senior housing shaped his leadership style and ambition. The conversation explores balancing career and family, the importance of modeling values for children, and how technology is transforming property management. Tune in for insights on resilience, adapting to change, and the evolving role of service and innovation in the multifamily industry.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode of Humans of Multifamily, Shiv Gettu sits down with Adrienne Hill, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Training at Simpson Housing, to explore how her upbringing as the daughter of a career Marine shaped her resilience, discipline, and purpose. Adrienne discusses her journey from answering a classified ad to becoming a 24-year veteran in multifamily, the impact of her parents' diverse backgrounds, and how she and her husband have navigated nearly three decades of marriage. Tune in to hear insights on balancing career and family, the importance of genuine connections, and the evolving role of technology in property management.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Gray Lane, Director of Marketing Operations at ECI Group. He reflects on his decade-long journey in multifamily marketing. Starting as a one-man team, Gray now manages a small team, continuously evolving his skillset and adapting to the industry's changes. He shares insights from his upbringing in Woodstock, Georgia, and how his parents influenced his career path. Gray discusses the transition from individual contributor to manager, the challenges of the multifamily industry, and the growing role of technology, including AI. He emphasizes the importance of building efficiencies, addressing core business problems, and providing exceptional customer service to differentiate in a competitive market.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Bevan White, Director of Marketing at RAM Partners, who brings over 25 years of experience in multifamily property management. Bevan shares his unconventional journey from disliking school and working in landscaping to leading marketing and branding strategies across major markets.
Raised in Mobile, Alabama, Bevan reflects on an active childhood, the impact of his parents’ divorce, and how their hands-off approach shaped his independence. He dives into his career path, revealing how he transitioned from onsite leasing to portfolio-wide marketing leadership.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv Gettu on LinkedIn.
Shiv Gettu sits down with Audrey Grant-Lott, director of Talent Management at the RMR Group, to discuss her three-decade-long journey in property management, training, and talent development. Audrey shares her candid thoughts on never wanting kids, growing up in a blue-collar family, and finding her way into property management. Throughout the conversation, she touches on the importance of proper onboarding and training in the industry, the evolution of her career, her personal priorities, and how relationship dynamics play a role in her professional and personal life. The episode provides insightful perspectives on industry challenges, the role of AI in property management, and the significance of personal connections in work and life.
Shiv Gettu sits down with Norman Radow, the visionary founder and CEO of The RADCO Companies, about his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Brooklyn's public housing to becoming a major force in the real estate industry. Norman discusses his philosophy that multifamily real estate is about more than spreadsheets and commodities; it's about providing families with homes they can be proud of. He shares his experiences of growing up in a diverse yet challenging environment, his entrepreneurial beginnings, and the values instilled by his parents. Norman reveals his leadership style, focusing on treating employees as the company's greatest asset and creating meaningful, safe, and affordable living spaces. He also delves into the importance of education, resilience, and innovation, while touching on the challenges and triumphs throughout his career. This episode, enriched with personal anecdotes and professional insights, highlights Norman's deep commitment to social equity and his unwavering belief in purpose-driven leadership.
In this episode, Shiv Gettu sits down with Keri Ann Hall, Director of Marketing at Clear Property Management. Keri shares her unique journey from her roots in San Antonio, balanced by her strong commitment to family and community. Growing up in a supportive household with hard-working parents, Keri succeeded in multifamily marketing, influenced heavily by core values and a stringent work ethic instilled by her father. Throughout the conversation, Keri discusses the nuances of balancing a demanding career with motherhood during challenging times like COVID-19, and the critical importance of maintaining strong personal and professional relationships. The episode offers an in-depth look at how Keri navigates her dual roles with passion, whether dealing with workplace demands or raising her children to be their happiest, truest selves. Keri's story is a testament to the power of hard work, commitment, and the invaluable support of family. Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn.
00:00 Building a Positive Work Environment00:29 Introducing Keri Hall01:03 Balancing Career and Family01:39 Challenges and Success in Property Management03:23 Family Background and Heritage05:34 Sibling Dynamics and Personal Growth07:44 Parenting Styles and Childhood Memories33:17 Navigating Technology and Parenting35:22 Monitoring Kids' Online Activities35:54 Family Dynamics and Home Design37:04 The Evolution of Social Media37:59 Work Ethic and Role Modeling39:36 Balancing Work and Personal Life44:40 Challenging Work Environments51:24 Career Path and Education01:09:56 Industry Insights and Relationships01:15:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Shiv Gettu sits down with Jonathan Bove, Executive Vice President of Acquisition and Management Services at Landmark, to explore his nearly two-decade-long journey in the multifamily industry. Jonathan discusses his transition from software engineering to real estate, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and the impact of luck. He sheds light on his extroverted nature, how it has contributed to his career success, and the value of luck surface area. He also shares personal insights about balancing family life, instilling values in his children, and utilizing AI technologies in property management. Jonathan’s story is a testament to how preparation, passion, and the right opportunities can redefine success in real estate.
Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn00:00 The Role of Luck in Career Success00:36 Introducing Jonathan Bove01:09 Family Values and Parenting01:49 Wedding Officiation Stories05:55 Growing Up in a Large Family13:53 Educational Background and Career Path26:18 Public Speaking and Overcoming Fear30:16 Reflecting on Career Mistakes32:43 Balancing Ambition and Realistic Promises34:24 Nautical Analogies and Family Influence37:47 Instilling Family Values44:31 Journey Through Multifamily Industry56:05 The Role of AI in Student Housing01:01:53 Fragmentation in Real Estate Technology01:03:25 Conclusion and Contact Information
Shiv Gettu sits down with Robbie Mejia RVP of Property Management at LYND as she shares her journey from growing up in a large family in Austin, Texas, to navigating the multifamily real estate industry. Robbie emphasizes the importance of trust and openness in leadership. She discusses the lessons learned from her father, a Vietnam veteran with a complex history, and how these lessons shaped her leadership style. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of multifamily real estate, the role of AI technology, and the significance of maintaining human connection in a technology-driven world. Robbie also reflects on her path to marriage and her experiences as a stepmom, offering a comprehensive view of her multifaceted life and career.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Real Estate00:26 Robbie Mejia's Early Life and Family Background00:41 Leadership Philosophy and Trust Building01:30 Challenges in Property Management01:47 Innovative Solutions with Kelsey AI03:05 Welcome to the Show: Robbie's Journey03:32 Growing Up in Austin, Texas07:47 Family Dynamics and Parental Influence09:23 Lessons from an Alcoholic Father13:19 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth33:59 The Role of a Stepmom37:20 Finding the Perfect Partner42:09 Discussing Relationship Dynamics43:55 Personal Growth and Self-Reflection46:04 Family Influence and Career Path49:22 Leadership and Mentorship01:07:42 The Role of AI in Multifamily Industry01:13:32 Personal Anecdotes and Future Plans
Shiv Gettu sits down with Maddie Patrick, a regional manager at Foresight Asset Management whose approach to real estate blends empathy, intentionality, and long-term thinking. She shares her belief that every unit should be treated like your grandmother lives in it a philosophy that shapes how she leads, renovates, and activates space. We dive into how thoughtful design isn’t just aesthetic, it’s moral. And how long-term ownership offers the opportunity to shift outcomes for families and entire communities.This episode is a candid look at what happens when we reframe housing as a human responsibility, not just a business.Humans of Multifamily is presented by Zuma, the AI assistant for your full-resident lifecycle. Visit getzuma.com and follow Shiv on LinkedIn00:00 Early Career in Acquisitions02:45 Transition to Development and Purpose-Driven Work05:10 How Design Reflects Respect and Care07:15 The “Grandmother Test” for Every Unit09:25 Long-Term Ownership and Generational Thinking11:50 Equity, Warmth, and Human-Centered Design14:10 Reframing Profit Through a People-First Lens17:35 Owning Mistakes and Building Team Trust20:00 Activating Buildings with Intention24:45 The Emotional Labor of Property Management27:30 What It Means to Be Radically Personal30:10 Moral Responsibility in Development34:00 Housing as a Tool for Equity and Belonging37:15 How Maddie Defines Good Property Management40:20 Creating Culture and Identity Through Design42:45 Long-Term Outcomes vs. Quick Fixes45:10 Why Physical Space Shapes Emotional Safety48:30 Building With Joy and Intention50:55 Closing Reflections on Values, Leadership, and Legacy
In this compelling episode, Natalie Jones, Vice President of Build to Rent, shares her remarkable story of growing up homeschooled in a religiously conservative family in Florida and Georgia. She talks about the profound challenges she faced after coming out twice; first at 17 and again at 26. Leading to her estrangement from most of her family. Natalie's narrative underlines the emotional toll and resilience needed to stay true to oneself while navigating intense familial and societal pressures. Despite these hardships, Natalie found a new sense of belonging and purpose in the multifamily housing industry, which she describes as her second family. She discusses the evolution of the industry, detailing how it has transformed into a space where people can build long-term careers. The conversation further explores varied experiences with homeschooling, dealing with ADHD, and the positive impacts of medication. Natalie also shares candid insights into finding love with her wife, overcoming the stigma tied to her identity, and the role of community in supporting her career and personal life. The episode is a touching reminder of the courage it takes to live authentically and the importance of connection and resilience.00:00 Early Life and Coming Out00:38 Career Beginnings and Industry Insights02:11 Homeschooling Experience05:25 Challenges with ADHD11:33 Family Dynamics and Struggles25:37 Navigating Family Relationships After Coming Out27:37 Understanding Different Perspectives on Sexuality28:33 Supporting Closeted Individuals30:37 Evolving Relationship with Religion35:18 Meeting My Wife and Building a Life Together41:39 Love for Downtown Phoenix43:01 Journey into the Multifamily Industry47:09 Crazy Stories from the Industry50:28 Future Plans and Final Thoughts
Or Bokobza, co-founder and CEO of Venn, discusses his journey from a middle-class upbringing in Israel, through an elite military unit, to leading a company that transforms apartment living through community. Or emphasizes the importance of values, authentic relationships, and collaboration in business. He shares insights on leadership, the significance of recruiting the right people, and his philosophy on money—viewing it as a measure of success and a means to afford life, but not the main driver. Or also discusses the potential of the multifamily industry to collaborate and improve collectively, rather than compete. The conversation touches on the importance of personal relationships, particularly family, and how these elements are crucial for happiness and success. Lastly, Or reflects on the power of community and ownership in driving participation, engagement, and ultimately, business success.
00:00 – Redefining Success: Money as a Tool, Not the Goal00:34 – Leading with Heart: Embedding Values into Business03:09 – Meet Or: From Humble Roots to Visionary CEO06:15 – Family First: The Foundation of Or’s Drive24:19 – Military Lessons: Discipline, Leadership & Trust37:58 – The Power of People: Building High-Integrity Teams56:33 – From Backpack to Blueprint: Entering Real Estate01:00:53 – Panama Playbook: Building Abroad with Vision01:18:58 – Why Community & Ownership Fuel Real Impact01:36:42 – Beyond Competition: A Call for Industry Unity01:45:00 – Love, Legacy, and the True Meaning of Success