Multi-Family Grit

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Danielle Little, Executive Vice President of Affordable Housing Compliance at Apartment Management Consultants (AMC), for a thoughtful conversation about leadership in affordable housing, building systems that scale, and why organization must come before innovation. Listen in to hear Danielle:Share how she unexpectedly pivoted from a path toward pharmacy school into affordable housing—and how an entry-level role at a rural West Virginia senior property and a crash course in a REAC inspection sparked a career built on curiosity, resilience, and a passion for helping families secure stable housingBreak down her philosophy of “organization before innovation,” explaining why taking inventory of processes, tools, and team capabilities is critical before implementing new technology or large-scale operational changesReflect on leading a national compliance team during a period of growth in affordable housing, translating complex regulations into actionable guidance for operations teams, and why in compliance it’s not about who moves first—it’s about who gets it right

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Luke Leins, SVP of Business Development at ResProp Management, for a forward-thinking conversation about reimagining multifamily operations through data, innovation, and people-first leadership. Listen in to hear Luke:Share how he unexpectedly found his way into multifamily after starting in financial services and senior living acquisitions—and how joining ResProp gave him the opportunity to help build a third-party management platform from the ground up, driven by curiosity and a commitment to challenging industry normsBreak down ResProp’s push toward data-driven operations, including the rollout of a Power BI platform, open API integrations, and Amazon-inspired decision frameworks that replace gut instinct with structured problem-solving, upstream indicators, and directed workflowsReflect on the industry’s talent deficit, the burnout facing regional leaders, and why initiatives like management training programs, profit sharing for site teams, and even bold ideas like tokenized rent-to-own models could be the next yield catalysts in a rapidly evolving multifamily landscape

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with David Lynd, CEO of The Lynd Company, for a candid, no-nonsense conversation about operational discipline, leadership through adversity, and the hard truths shaping the future of multifamily. Listen in to hear David:Share how growing up working on apartment sites—from digging sewer lines to running properties—shaped his relentless, data-driven approach to operations and why property management became the most challenging and rewarding work of his careerBreak down why operating expenses have surged more than 40% since 2019, why rents haven’t kept pace, and how technology, amenities, and herd mentality have quietly eroded value instead of creating itReflect on leadership, culture, and accountability—from building teams that thrive under pressure to redefining work environments that prioritize performance, trust, and long-term sustainability in one of the toughest market cycles multifamily has ever faced

In this episode, Kerri Davis sits down with Jack (John) Sipes, longtime multifamily leader, former President of Dominium, and West Point graduate, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, service, and scaling people-first organizations. Listen in to hear Jack:Share how his journey from the U.S. Army and West Point to multifamily property management shaped his leadership philosophy of learn, earn, and serve, and why so many professionals “fall into” the industry and stayBreak down what it really takes to scale from 13,000 to 45,000 units, including the power of promoting from within, investing in leadership training, and building systems that support both growth and cultureReflect on the future of multifamily management—what AI and centralization get right and wrong, why human connection still matters, and why developing first-line leaders may be the industry’s most urgent challenge

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Marc Pollack, Managing Director at FirstService Residential, for a candid conversation about grit, leadership, and the human realities of multifamily operations. Listen in to hear Marc:Share how growing up as a lifelong apartment resident in Queens led him intentionally into property management—and how early career risks, asking for more responsibility, and learning “through fire” shaped his leadership styleBreak down what it means to bridge capital and community, translating income statements into lived experiences while balancing owner expectations, operational realities, and resident needs across affordable, workforce, and luxury housingReflect on the grind of multifamily, the emotional toll on on-site teams, and why empathy, culture champions, accountability, and scalable—not perfect—processes are essential to building resilient teams and livable communities

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Zachary Guerin, Vice President of Residential Property Management at Seldin Company, for a grounded conversation about leadership, innovation, and the realities of running teams in a rapidly changing industry. Listen in to hear Zach:Share how this industry is sitting on untapped potential, why many people are too tired or burnt out to challenge how things have been done, and how he focuses on finding people who will challenge what people have been doing every day for the last several hundred years of property managementBreak down how AI cleaned up all of our ledgers, how his teams rose to the KPI and AI challenge with a challenge accepted mindset, and how he pushes operations to meet KPIs or risk being outperformed by automationReflect on treating managers and operators like they are running micro economies, why he wants his company to bet on courage instead of comfort, and how he creates space for teams to become indispensable while navigating burnout, staffing challenges, and multigenerational leadership

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Julie Runyan, Compliance Director at AdWest, and Alex Westad, President of AdWest, for an inspiring conversation about modernizing affordable housing management while preserving heart, legacy, and community. Listen in to hear Julie and Alex:Share their origin stories—from Alex literally growing up in rural development housing and eventually purchasing his family’s company, to Julie discovering affordable housing by chance and building a career rooted in education, compliance, and deep care for residents and site teamsBreak down how AdWest is transforming a legacy company into a forward-thinking organization through clearer leadership structures, Notion-powered knowledge bases, ChatGPT-assisted operational tools, and weekly training programs designed to support and strengthen onsite teamsReflect on balancing family-founded values with modern innovation, investing intentionally in people, reshaping roles to match strengths, and building a culture where team members are encouraged to collaborate, problem-solve, and continually improve the resident experience

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Carl Swafford, Chief Operating Officer at Apartment Dynamics, for a deep and energizing conversation about leadership, resilience, and the human side of property management. Listen in to hear Carl:Share his remarkable 30-year journey from Navy and Marine Corps veteran to groundskeeper, technician, manager, regional, and ultimately COO—and how mastering each role, investing in people, and staying relentlessly curious shaped his path to leading 6,700 units across 52 communitiesBreak down his leadership philosophy of mastering your current role, always learning what’s next, and building teams of “solutionists” who confidently step into challenges with clarity and purposeReflect on spirituality, meditation, and the belief that we are “spirits working with spirits”—and how mindfulness, empathy, energetic awareness, and intentional human connection fuel better interactions, stronger teams, and more purposeful careers in multifamily

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Sydne Garchik, Founder of MRK Partners, for an inspiring conversation about building equitable communities, embracing fearless leadership, and reimagining affordable housing with heart and innovation. Listen in to hear Sydne:Share how she turned an unexpected start in real estate into founding MRK Partners—blending a for-profit mindset with a nonprofit mission to create, preserve, and elevate affordable housing nationwideBreak down the realities of development today, from navigating red tape and NIMBYism to structuring “impossible” deals—and why she believes success comes from tackling one problem at a time with grit, creativity, and purposeReflect on empowering women in real estate, leveraging technology to streamline impact, and how her nonprofit, Bloom, is helping residents build equity through education, financial literacy, and community connection

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Kathleen Raffinello, Founder and President of a boutique third-party management firm based in Nevada, for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and leading with heart in the multifamily world. Listen in to hear Katie:Share how she started in real estate at just sixteen, moved to Las Vegas with only $800, and built a 30-year career defined by grit, mentorship, and a deep belief that property management is ultimately about people—not just numbersReflect on her bold leap at fifty to start her own company, the whirlwind two months that followed, and why betting on customization, relationships, and quick decision-making helped her team win Property Management Company of the Year in both Reno and Las VegasDiscuss how she’s grooming the next generation—including her own son as a third-generation operator—and why she believes property management should be taught in schools to inspire purpose, pride, and longevity in the industry

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Diane Yensen, Chief Operating Officer at Lexington Partners, for a powerful conversation about candid leadership, operational turnarounds, and building the future of multifamily with both fundamentals and innovation. Listen in to hear Diane:Share her unconventional journey from a 17-year-old assistant manager to COO of a 3,500-unit portfolio—and how grit, adaptability, and a love for fixing challenges shaped her career as “The Jensenator”Break down her simple yet proven approach to 30-60-90-day turnarounds, the “people, product, price” formula, and why stable teams are the foundation of stable assetsReflect on balancing technology and timeless fundamentals, from multimillion-dollar software conversions to mentoring entry-level hires into leadership, and why property management remains one of the most important jobs in real estate

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Cindy Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of the Chester Housing Authority, for an inspiring conversation about community-centered leadership, dispelling myths about affordable housing, and shaping the future of public housing. Listen in to hear Cindy:Share her unconventional start in property management, how her upbringing in Washington, D.C. fueled her passion for HUD programs, and why she believes community connection drives real changeBreak down her first year at Chester Housing Authority, from building organizational capacity and empowering staff to forging partnerships with city leaders, schools, and even the DA’s office to strengthen resident servicesReflect on innovative initiatives like the Ruth Bennett Community Farm, redefining compliance with creativity, and her vision for the future of affordable housing—from homeownership opportunities to workforce housing and beyond

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Jayson Yoss, President and Managing Broker of GoldenWest Management, for an eye-opening conversation about boutique multifamily, disciplined leadership, and thriving amid regulatory chaos. Listen in to hear Jayson:Share his journey from Marine Corps infantry officer with combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan to building a property management firm overseeing nearly 1,000 units across three states—and how discipline, accountability, and problem-solving shaped his leadership philosophyBreak down why boutique multifamily (8–40 units) is an overlooked but high-potential segment, and how his team uses triage strategies, clear communication, and process-driven management to stabilize struggling properties and earn client trustReflect on the realities of today’s shifting landlord–tenant laws, the importance of compliance over conflict, and how balancing fatherhood with triplets keeps him grounded in what truly matters

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Stacy Ekholm, Vice President of Operations at Schafer Richardson, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, scaling organizations, and embracing humility in the multifamily and construction industries. Listen in to hear Stacy:Share her journey from starting as an 18-year-old leasing agent to leading operations across property management, HR, IT, marketing, and construction—and how her passion for housing and design shaped her career pathBreak down Schafer Richardson’s rollout of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), including building culture through core values, creating accountability, and turning skeptics into champions of changeReflect on being “the stupidest person in the room on purpose,” lessons from the best-worst boss, and why trust, curiosity, and authenticity are the cornerstones of great leadership

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Lindsay Duffy, Vice President of Operations at Asset Living, for a powerful conversation about resilience, leadership, and people-first innovation in multifamily. Listen in to hear Lindsay:Share her remarkable journey from growing up on site with property manager parents, to navigating loss, and ultimately channeling those experiences into a career leading operations for one of the largest third-party managers in the countryReflect on why she thrives in chaos—drawing from her time as a volunteer firefighter, embracing rapid change, and mentoring teams with both accountability and heartBreak down her passion for leveraging technology without losing the human element, championing culture across five states, and inspiring the next generation of multifamily leaders through mentorship and impact

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Alison Turner, Senior Vice President of Talent Acquisition at RangeWater Real Estate, for a vibrant conversation about redefining recruitment, nurturing internal growth, and building long-term talent pipelines. Listen in to hear Alison:Break down her approach to combating industry-wide hiring challenges—including ghosting—by building trust, leveraging video interviews, and streamlining automation to create candidate-centric hiring experiencesShare how RangeWater uses custom-built assessments and personality benchmarks to support better hiring decisions, accelerate training, and drive long-term success through data-informed developmentReflect on the power of RangeWater’s internship and green leasing programs, how “boomerangers” and “serial appliers” fit into their hiring ecosystem, and why investing early in talent fosters stronger futures for both individuals and the industry

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Tiffany Tillotson, Director of Special Projects and Collaborations at New Hope Housing, for a powerful conversation about creativity, community, and commitment in the world of affordable housing. Listen in to hear Tiffany:Share how her journey from student housing to nonprofit leadership is shaped by lived experience, relentless energy, and a fierce belief in the power of resident-first solutionsBreak down transformative programs like Jazz Under the Stars and the Someone Studio, where a haircut becomes a catalyst for confidence, connection, and hopeReflect on the complexities of juggling law school, motherhood, and two jobs—and how staying grounded in purpose helps her navigate shifting leadership and keep showing up with heart

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Gladys Stephenson, Senior Director of Compliance and Asset Management at Devon Management, for a powerful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and rising through the ranks in multifamily. Listen in to hear Gladys:Share how she went from a teenage mom working in maintenance to leading compliance and asset strategy at a growing firm—and how her foster care background fuels her passion for mentorship, growth, and affordable housingReflect on Devon’s bold rebrand, the launch of its third-party management arm, and why she believes success is built on structure, heart, and showing up for your team—especially the often-overlooked maintenance staffBreak down the power of internal innovation, including how Devon’s custom-built CRM is streamlining operations, supporting compliance, and laying the foundation for national expansion

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Alex LaFlam, National Account Executive at WithMe, for a fast-paced and heartfelt conversation about smart spending, scalable partnerships, and staying rooted in real on-site experience. Listen in to hear Alex:Share her 15+ year journey from an eager leasing agent in Sacramento to leading national strategy at a cutting-edge proptech company—and how she found love (and her husband!) along the way in the halls of multifamilyReflect on the challenges and grit of running high-demand lease-ups in San Francisco, how the pandemic reshaped her leadership, and why operators need tech that actually works for site teamsBreak down how WithMe is helping owners future-proof amenities, control costs through smart software, and deliver reliable resident experiences—with ROI that’s measured in trust, efficiency, and NOI impact

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Kevin Owens, President of Property Management at RKW Residential, for a compelling conversation about confident leadership, intentional tech adoption, and creating a Ritz Carlton-level resident experience. Listen in to hear Kevin:Share how his unconventional path—from a psychiatric hospital program director to senior housing and then multifamily—shaped his calm urgency, people-first mindset, and relentless drive to grow and lead with perspectiveReflect on his decision to join RKW after a transformative year in consulting, and how the company’s alignment of tech and heart, powered by Alfred, convinced him it was the right next chapterBreak down his belief in starting innovation at the user level, building tech that elevates—not replaces—people, and why true differentiation in multifamily means balancing high-touch care with high-tech tools

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Kelley Brine, President of Rose Valley Management, for a dynamic conversation about culture-driven leadership, embracing change, and leading with authenticity. Listen in to hear Kelley:Share how she unexpectedly fell into real estate 25 years ago—and how her journey from a leasing agent in New York to President of a $2 billion portfolio was shaped by grit, empathy, and a passion for purposeful leadershipReflect on her first year at Rose Valley, including navigating a “tornado on fire,” building culture from the literal ground up, and aligning teams around a shared vision of operational excellence and human-first valuesBreak down her approach to work-life presence over balance, championing women in leadership, and why she believes survival, simplicity, and strong support systems are the secret weapons of sustainable success

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Mitzi Hoag, Vice President of Compliance at Gateway Management Company, for a powerful conversation about redefining affordable housing compliance through innovation, collaboration, and compassion. Listen in to hear Mitzi:Share how a chance encounter in a grocery store led to a 24-year career in affordable housing—and how her early experiences on site shaped her passion for training, process improvement, and resident-first solutionsBreak down Gateway’s cutting-edge compliance strategy, including a first-of-its-kind AI file review tool that’s eliminating inconsistencies and helping site teams accelerate move-ins with clarity and trustReflect on the role of centralized leasing, digital applications, and income averaging in meeting the urgent needs of today's workforce—and why every compliance file represents more than paperwork: it’s a family waiting for a home

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Cristy Abud, Director of Training and Compliance at Priderock Capital Management, for an insightful conversation about scaling support teams, training with heart, and balancing people with process. Listen in to hear Cristy:Share how she went from a temporary leasing agent to leading a nationwide training and compliance team—and how saying “yes” shaped her career and earned her a custom-made role on the corporate teamBreak down her team’s role as the “fixers,” including how she uses data, grounded goals, and deep relationships with operations to create targeted support for struggling sitesReflect on the challenges of 100% travel roles, how she safeguards team mental health, and why prioritizing empathy, structure, and growth keeps her team (and portfolio) thriving

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Ryan Calhoun, Regional Director of Operations at Landmark Properties, for a compelling conversation about legislative advocacy, student housing operations, and personalized leadership. Listen in to hear Ryan:Share how he fell into student housing and built a thriving career focused on fast-paced operations, strategic innovation, and regional leadership across diverse markets—including navigating the demands of high-turn student assetsExplain how a local ordinance in Ann Arbor sparked his passion for legislation, and why he believes operators must have a seat at the table to shape policies that impact affordability, development, and fair housingBreak down his “catered coaching” approach to leadership—tailoring mentorship to individual learning styles—and how combining radical candor, extreme ownership, and empathy is creating more connected and effective teams across Landmark’s portfolio

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Chasity Sadowy, Vice President of Property Management at Birge and Held, for a powerful conversation about operational strategy, affordable housing, and bold centralization. Listen in to hear Chasity:Share how she rose from receptionist to VP overseeing 20,000 units—and why she believes being the voice for site teams is the key to sustainable leadershipExplain why property management should start with development, and how her team is shaping prototypes and product decisions to better meet market and QAP needsBreak down Birge and Held’s ambitious centralization rollout—including tech-enabled support roles, fully offloading administrative tasks, and redefining success through standardization and strategic hiring

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Donald Davidoff, Co-Founder and CEO of Real Estate Business Analytics (REBA), for a thoughtful conversation about platform thinking, pricing innovation, and building technology that puts operators first. Listen in to hear Donald:Share how his path from revenue management in hotels and gaming led to pioneering multifamily pricing systems—and why he believes success starts with persistent problem-solvingExplain why REBA was built from the ground up as a connected analytics platform, and how intentional design and humility helped shape a product that works with operators, not just for themBreak down the misconceptions around algorithmic pricing and antitrust concerns, and why using clean, first-party data is both a legal safeguard and a smarter business strategy

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Marc Hershberg, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Topaz Capital Group, for a candid conversation about entrepreneurial grit, investment discipline, and innovating in multifamily real estate. Listen in to hear Marc:Share how his path from corporate finance to real estate investing was driven by a desire to build tangible, generational wealth—and how Topaz Capital was born in the honeymoon suite after his weddingExplain why he underwrites markets before deals, and how that approach has helped Topaz navigate risk and identify long-term growth opportunitiesReveal how his team is staying ahead of the curve by pivoting to newer assets, investing in proptech, and partnering with local developers to creatively structure deals in Florida’s evolving multifamily market

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Steve Boyack, Chief Operating Officer of JVM Realty, for a thoughtful conversation about strategic transformation, team empowerment, and building a resident-first mindset in multifamily. Listen in to hear Steve:Share how a summer job in high school led to a wide-ranging career across nearly every role in property management—from maintenance tech to COOReveal why he believes “clean before you redecorate” is the secret to successful innovation, and how process mapping unlocks lasting operational changeExplain how rethinking maintenance roles, focusing on specialization over centralization, and seeing the resident as the true client are reshaping JVM’s future-facing strategies

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Patti Higgins, Director of Property Management at Park Town Living, for a candid conversation about servant leadership, company culture, and leading through personal transformation. Listen in to hear Patti:Share how a friendly leasing office tour sparked her entry into the multifamily world—and led to a powerhouse career overseeing thousands of units across the countryReveal her people-first philosophy and why she believes the corporate office works for the on-site teams—not the other way aroundOpen up about launching Park Town Living during a time of immense personal loss, and how vulnerability, resilience, and community helped her lead with authenticity through adversity

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Ben Nollola, Vice President of Operations at Gables Residential, for a deep dive into leadership evolution, operational excellence, and the future of multifamily management. Listen in to hear Ben:Share his inspiring story of how a life-altering decision at 18 led him from a music scholarship to a nearly three-decade career in property management,Explain why the rapid adoption of technology has increased business sophistication but weakened on-site teams’ fundamental operational knowledgeDiscuss how Gables is preserving a "Rolls Royce" experience through mentorship, subject matter expertise, and a human-first approach in an increasingly automated industry.

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Nate Thompson, Director of Screening at Morgan Properties, for a deep dive into the evolution of resident screening, fraud prevention, and data-driven decision-making in multifamily operations. Listen in to hear Nate:Share his surprising journey from the restaurant and cheese-importing world to becoming "The Screening Guy" in multifamilyBreak down the myths behind industry standards like the income-to-rent ratio, and reveal what the data really says about renter reliabilityExplain the layered fraud prevention strategies he's testing—from identity verification to CPN detection—and how these innovations are shaping the future of property management

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Issa Mider-Martinez, Vice President of Operations at Mountain States Property Management, for a deep dive into leadership, customer service, and the challenges of managing in the property management industry. Listen in to hear Issa:Share her inspiring, novel worthy story, from overcoming early challenges as an immigrant to becoming a high level leader in operations,Explain how she's kept her company performing at 4% higher occupancy than the competition in a highly competitive marketHow a seemingly small communication error can create massive hard and soft cost losses. 

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Barry Slaymaker, President and CFO of ATC Development, for an insightful conversation about leadership, empathy, and the multifamily industry. Barry shares a powerful story about bending the rules to help a woman in need of housing, illustrating the profound impact empathy can have in decision-making. What begins as a routine housing application process turns into a life-changing moment, highlighting the true value of what the multifamily industry provides.Through his story, Barry emphasizes the importance of leading with heart, creating supportive environments, and prioritizing people over processes. He also shares his top book recommendations, including Influence by Robert Cialdini, Unreasonable Hospitality by Danny Meyer, and Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, offering valuable insights into understanding human behavior and emotions in leadership.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how leadership grounded in empathy can drive success and create meaningful impact in the multifamily industry, with lessons that extend beyond business into everyday life.

In this engaging episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Jason Miller, Business Consulting Director at Dean Dorton, to discuss the evolving accounting industry and its challenges. Jason breaks down how technology and automation are reshaping roles, shifting workforce structures, and widening the talent gap. He highlights the need for leadership development, on-the-job training, and innovative strategies to attract and retain professionals.Jason also explores leadership, change management, and motivation, drawing insights from books like Extreme Ownership, Sticking Points, Gentelligence, and Drive. He examines generational dynamics, evolving workplace culture, and the shift from financial incentives to intrinsic motivation.Throughout the episode, Jason shares valuable perspectives on how businesses can adapt to a rapidly changing environment, leverage technology effectively, and build workplaces that attract and retain top talent. Whether you’re an accounting professional, business leader, or someone interested in workplace evolution, this discussion offers practical insights to help shape the future of work.

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with Latrice Leake, Learning & Development Specialist at Mission Rock Residential, LLC  to explore her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and impact in both professional and personal spaces. Latrice shares profound insights on energy alignment, personal growth, and the power of storytelling, emphasizing how our experiences shape the way we show up in the world.From navigating challenges in property management to embracing the beauty of human connections, Latrice opens up about lessons learned along the way. She also shares an unforgettable story of a resident whose history carries the weight of survival, resilience, and generosity—leaving a lasting impact.We wrap up with Latrice’s book recommendation, The Alchemist, and a conversation about how life’s experiences are all connected, guiding us toward our purpose. Whether you're looking for inspiration, motivation, or just an enriching conversation, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress sits down with Kristen Diamond, Vice President of Multifamily Management at Hayman Company, for a behind-the-scenes look at a truly bizarre and eye-opening property management experience. Kristen recounts dealing with mysterious noises that leave residents frustrated and the unbelievable truth uncovered during maintenance. What begins as a puzzling issue soon leads to an astonishing discovery.Through her story, Kristen shares the invaluable lessons learned from handling tough situations, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence and patience when faced with the unknown. She also discusses her top book recommendations, including a powerful read on emotional intelligence, and emphasizes the significance of mindfulness and focus in everyday interactions.Tune in for an engaging, real-life tale from the world of property management, filled with surprising revelations, humor, and insightful takeaways!

In this engaging conversation, host Kerri Davis, CEO and Founder of Fortress, sits down with David Keinert, Executive Vice President of Operations at Aeon, to discuss resilience, adaptability, and growth in both personal and professional life. They explore navigating career transitions, embracing innovation, and overcoming challenges with the right mindset. David shares personal stories and valuable insights on staying authentic, handling uncertainty, and thriving in a fast-changing world. Whether you’re seeking motivation, leadership advice, or practical strategies, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions and actionable takeaways!

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, sits down with Katherine Maestas, Community Manager at Kairoi Residential. Katherine shares her passion for property management and emphasizes the importance of connecting with prospects—highlighting how relationships play a crucial role in leasing success. With her core belief that people come before product, Katherine’s perspective offers a refreshing take on what it means to build community in the industry.More About Our Guest:With a distinguished career in sales and multifamily property management, Katherine has made a significant impact in the industry. Over the course of her career, Katherine has successfully managed 11 multifamily properties and is currently embarking on her third lease-up project, demonstrating a strong expertise in handling the complexities of multifamily management.Central to Katherine’s professional philosophy is the belief that people come before product. This approach has fostered strong, lasting relationships with clients and set a high standard for exceptional service and trustworthiness in the multifamily sector. Katherine is dedicated to prioritizing clients' needs, ensuring that their experiences are both positive and rewarding.

In this special episode of Multi-Family Grit, Kerri and William reflect on their favorite moments from recent interviews with standout leaders in the property management industry. Tune in as they revisit top highlights and elaborate on thoughtful insights from conversations with Hunter Nelson, Partner at Elmington; Meg Tibbs, Vice President of Operations at Dominium; and David Strange, Senior Managing Director - Commercial Real Estate Finance at Walker & Dunlop.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, sits down with David Strange, Senior Managing Director of Commercial Real Estate Finance at Walker & Dunlop, to discuss the current challenges in financing deals in today's market, along with other important topics such as home and rental price increases, and the growing group of individuals who earn too much for affordable properties but too little for market-rate properties.More About Our Guest: With approximately 20 years of industry experience, David Strange, senior managing director-commercial real estate finance, co-manages Walker & Dunlop’s Nashville, Tennessee office. He is responsible for financing multifamily, healthcare, and other income-producing commercial real estate assets throughout the country. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Strange was an agency originator with Deutsche Bank Berkshire Mortgage, Inc and has experience working for SunTrust Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, and Ernst & Young, LLP. Mr. Strange is a certified public accountant and earned his Bachelor of Science in accounting from the University of South Alabama.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, sits down with Meg Tibbs, Vice President of Operations at Dominium, to dive into the data that drives successful teams. Meg shares her experiences and insights on the importance of hiring and retaining the right people, discussing how leveraging data can help shape strong, high-performing teams in the multi-family industry. This conversation uncovers how the right people and data-driven decisions create lasting success in property management.More About Our Guest: Meg Tibbs is Vice President of Operations for Dominium. Tibbs is responsible for driving strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency while ensuring high-quality property management through policy, procedure, training and communication. She is also responsible for leading a team of property management operations specialists focused on training, site support and project management. Tibbs joined Dominium in 2007 and has held a variety of site and corporate roles as she advanced her career, including Concierge, Leasing Consultant, Assistant Community Manager, Multi-Site Community Manager, Operations Training Specialist, and Director of Operations. She has experience and expertise in tax-credit and market-rate properties, as well as historic rehabilitation communities. She’s also led critical initiatives to streamline and simplify the company’s resident application along with other site processes.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, sits down with Hunter Nelson, Partner at Elmington. Together, they discuss the critical role affordable housing plays in a city's infrastructure, why the demand will always outpace supply, and how elections can significantly impact affordable housing policies and initiatives.More About Our Guest: Hunter provides leadership on Elmington’s affordable housing portfolio. With an expertise in Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) development, Hunter oversees Elmington’s 4% bond financed and 9% competitive tax credit development portfolio. He is responsible for the affordable housing strategic direction and day-to-day operations, including: sourcing new construction and rehabilitation deals, project management, financial analysis, government relations, syndication, and due diligence activities.

In this special episode of Multi-Family Grit, Kerri and William reflect on their favorite moments from recent interviews with standout leaders in the property management industry. Tune in as they revisit top highlights and elaborate on thoughtful insights from conversations with Tracey Crowe, active past Chair of the Greater Nashville Apartment Association; Jonathan Wogan, Founder and CEO of Wogan Group; and Tabitha Isbill, President of Evergreen Real Estate.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, Kerri Davis, Founder and CEO of Fortress OS, chats with Tabitha Isbill, President of Evergreen Real Estate. They dive into why it's so important for leaders to spend time on-site with their teams. They talk about how being present helps quickly solve problems, boost customer service, and build stronger connections with the on-site teams.More About Our Guest:Tabitha is the President of Evergreen Real Estate, with a career in commercial and residential property management that began in 2000. Over the years, she has overseen the management of 1,500 commercial properties and 1,200 residential properties. In her role as President of Evergreen, Tabitha currently oversees the successful operation of 3,000 apartment homes in the Nashville, Chattanooga, and Alabama markets.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, Founder and CEO of Fortress OS, welcomes Jonathan Wogan, Founder and CEO of Wogan Group. Together, they discuss how third-party management groups need to work seamlessly with owners. They highlight the importance of offering solutions, not just pointing out problems, and the value of embracing new approaches.More About Our Guest:Jonathan Wogan has been a leader in the real estate management industry for over 20 years. As the founder of Wogan Group and its various affiliates, Jonathan has built a full-service company with maximum benefit for his clients and investors. He has executed over 50 business plans, covering more than 20,000 apartment homes. Known for his hands-on approach and attention to detail, Jonathan is a successful operator and advisor. His leadership style fosters a positive corporate culture, with a strong focus on maintaining and reassessing brand identity.Jonathan holds a master’s degree in Management from CBU, with a concentration in Organizational Behavior. His experience in multifamily includes prior roles at Freeman Webb and as Vice President for Silver Tree Residential. Currently, Jonathan is the Founder and CEO of Wogan Group, where he collaborates with his team to achieve continuous growth and profitability. Today's episode is sponsored by PropUp. PropUp is the real estate industry’s best facilities management system, handling unit turns, work orders, inspections, workflow automation, and team collaboration. Learn more at gopropup.com

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, is joined by Tracey Crowe, a seasoned property management professional and active past Chair of the Greater Nashville Apartment Association. Together, they explore the significance of happiness in both personal and professional life. Tracey shares insights on the importance of nurturing your spirit and making time to recharge for success.More About Our Guest: Tracey Crowe hails from Owensboro, Kentucky, and is a graduate of Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. With nearly 25 years of experience in the multifamily industry, which she is passionate about, Tracey has dedicated the last 15 years to active involvement with the Greater Nashville Apartment Association (GNAA). Notably, she served as the Chairman of the Board for GNAA’s nonprofit organization and continues to contribute as an active past Chair.Growing up in Kentucky, Tracey was fortunate to meet many incredible people who have played a role in advancing her career. She strongly believes in paying it forward. Currently, she serves as a Regional Property Manager and is deeply committed to advancing the industry. With her passion for multifamily housing, philanthropy, and community engagement, Tracey is confident in her ability to help shape the future of the industry.

In this special episode of Multi-Family Grit, Kerri and William reflect on their favorite moments from recent interviews with standout leaders in the property management industry. Tune in as they revisit top highlights and elaborate on thoughtful insights from conversations with Stephanie Lehman, Executive Vice President of Asset Management at Elmington; DeAnna Moore, President at Elmington Property Management; and Jenny McClain, Chief Marketing Officer at Giarratana.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, talks with Jenny McClain, Chief Marketing Officer at Giarratana, about the importance of being a beacon of the brand in property management. They discuss how product excellence and going above and beyond for residents is crucial, emphasizing it's more than just renting an apartment. It's about creating an incomparable experience. More About Our Guest: Jenny is a multifamily marketing maven with a career spanning over 25 years. She kicked things off as an affordable housing manager in Wilson County, TN while earning her bachelor's degree in marketing/business administration from Belmont University. She then went on to rock the marketing and sales world at Apartments.com and ApartmentGuide.com, ultimately landing as the VP of Marketing for Elmington Property Management where she started the first revenue-generating multifamily marketing department in Nashville.  In 2016, Jenny spearheaded the marketing for Tony Giarratana's 1818 Church development, which set the record for Nashville's fastest lease-up. Just a year later, she became Giarratana's Chief Marketing Officer and led the lease-up of 505, Tennessee's tallest residential tower where she and the team set jaw-dropping price-per-square-foot records in the market for apartments and condominiums. Currently, Jenny is leading the marketing charge for three more Giarratana towers changing the Nashville skyline, including 1010, which at 60 stories will be the tallest building in the state. 

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, interviews DeAnna Moore, President at Elmington Property Management. They explore the people experience in property management, emphasizing customer experience and service excellence for clients, residents, and team members. DeAnna shares her insights on creating a positive environment and delivering outstanding service in the property management industry. More About Our Guest: DeAnna, the President of Elmington Property Management, brings a 25-year career and an innovative, results-driven approach to real estate leadership. A Texas native and Texas Tech alumna based in Nashville, she is a devoted University of Texas Longhorns fan. DeAnna, recognized for leading portfolios exceeding $3 billion, excels in new business development and building trusting client relationships. Her transformative leadership highlights a commitment to revenue growth and enhanced customer experiences. Notably, she implemented a customer-centric sales model, centralized sales organization, and Sales Excellence BI dashboard. DeAnna’s goal at Elmington is clear—improving multifamily real estate efficiency while championing equity and value for employees and clients. With a unique blend of expertise, she is set to lead Elmington into a new era of prosperity and innovation.

In this episode of Multi-Family Grit, host Kerri Davis, founder and CEO of Fortress OS, sits down with Stephanie Lehman, Executive Vice President of Asset Management at Elmington. They delve into the struggles of staffing in property management, discussing the difficulties of hiring good people, training, promotion, and the ongoing challenges in the industry. More About Our Guest: Stephanie Lehman is the Executive Vice President of Asset Management overseeing Multifamily Affordable, Build to Rent and Senior Living assets for Elmington. In this role, she manages the operations of Elmington’s 45 active assets, made up of stabilized assets and properties in lease up.  Stephanie is heavily involved with the design development of all new developments, working with architects on every aspect of the development. Prior to joining Elmington, Stephanie was an Asset Manager at Covenant Capital Group in Nashville, Tennessee, for 9 years. There she handled a large portfolio of multifamily assets with an investment value exceeding $240 million and specialized in value-add renovations and design and operations.