Join host Robin Madison on this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels as she chats with Michelle Roody, one of Michaels’ 2024 Community Managers of the Year. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from publishing NYC landlord-tenant caselaw to managing thriving communities at Century Sunrise, reflects on the challenges and rewards of her role, and highlights the real impact she makes in residents’ lives. Plus, get a glimpse into her passion for fishing and adventures off the clock. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about leadership, community, and finding joy in every moment.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, COO Matt Sullivan sits down with Genevieve “Gen” Bauer, the new Executive Vice President of Operations. Gen shares her journey from aspiring sports broadcaster to multifamily housing leader, her passion for innovation and mentorship, and what drew her to Michaels. From her approach to leading diverse portfolios to her dedication to lifting lives, Gen offers insights on leadership, impact, and what she hopes to accomplish in her first year. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and get to know the newest member of the Michaels Leadership Team.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Heather Luty sits down with Regional Property Manager Nitzia Chambers to discuss her incredible 24-year journey with Michaels. From starting as a temp to becoming a leader in affordable housing, Nitzia shares insights on career growth, time management, and the power of strong leadership. Plus, she reflects on winning a prestigious RPM Recognition Award at the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host James Haley sits down with Josh Eckert, Associate and Urban Designer at Urban Practice, to discuss the role of architecture in community development. Josh shares his journey from building homes in Indiana to designing transformative spaces for Michaels, including the groundbreaking unaccompanied enlisted housing project at Fort Irwin.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Mel Burrell sits down with Robin Madison to discuss her remarkable journey with The Michaels Organization, from starting as a Social Service Coordinator in 2000 to recently being promoted to Vice President of Operational Policy and Compliance. She opens up about what has fueled her two-decade-long career, the meaningful projects she’s excited about in her new role, and what it meant to be named one of Michaels’ Corporate Teammates of the Year.
In this special episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Robin Madison sits down with Kyle Robin, Area Manager at The Residences at LSU Health, to reflect on his firsthand experience during Hurricane Katrina and the lessons he carries forward nearly two decades later. From leading students through an unprecedented crisis to preparing teams for future storms, Kyle shares how resilience, preparation, and a heart for community have shaped his leadership - then and now.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Cruz Rodriguez sits down with Diane Garcia, one of the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings’ Community Managers of the Year in the Affordable category. Diane shares her inspiring career journey - from a chance opportunity at a dry cleaners to over a decade at Cottages at La Vista - and reflects on lessons learned along the way. Tune in to hear how her leadership style, commitment to teamwork, and willingness to “listen more and talk less” helped her earn this well-deserved recognition.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Robin Madison sits down with Megan Phillips, one of Michaels' outstanding Community Directors and a recent recipient of a Community Director of the Year award at the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings. Megan shares her inspiring journey—from starting as a part-time leasing agent to leading a community through extreme challenges. Tune in to hear her insights on leadership, accountability, and the fast-paced world of student housing, plus a few fun facts about her life outside of work.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Robin Madison sits down with newly promoted Regional Property Manager, David Lamb, to discuss his journey of growth, leadership, and empowerment at Michaels. From navigating a major career transition to winning the prestigious Regional Facility Director of the Year award, David shares how embracing challenges, fostering relationships, and taking creative risks have shaped his path. Hear about his inspiring conversation with a longtime teammate, the lessons learned at the Michaels Management Meetings, and the impact of teamwork on his success.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Courtney Zaccardi sits down with Randy Pittman and Cesar Salazar, co-leads of PRIDE In Action, Michaels' newly launched Employee Resource Group for LGBTQ+ team members and allies. Randy shares his decades-long journey of advocacy, from marching with a torch for marriage equality to witnessing military pride in uniform. Cesar speaks to the importance of fostering belonging and building inclusive spaces in the workplace. Together, they discuss the vision for PRIDE In Action, the vital role of allies, and how this new ERG is creating ripples of change within Michaels and beyond. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or a dedicated ally, this episode is a celebration of visibility, courage, and community.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Courtney Zaccardi sits down with Construction Estimator Victor Lebron to discuss his journey at Michaels, starting as a fresh college graduate and navigating the challenges of the pandemic to become a key player in pre-construction. Victor also shares his passion for affordable housing and how his work with Habitat for Humanity led to meaningful community impact.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Cruz Rodriguez sits down with Community Manager Martha Reyes, a dedicated leader who has been with Michaels for five years. Martha shares insights from the recent Michaels Management Meetings, her experiences as a community manager, and the impact of building strong relationships within her team and community. Plus, we celebrate her incredible achievement as a Beyond the Rainbow awardee!
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Matt Sullivan sits down with Caroline Sutherland and Jose Cruz, Directors of Investment Management, to explore the dynamic world of military housing development. Join us as we discuss: 🏡 The planning and execution of military housing projects 🔑 Key challenges and opportunities in developing homes for service members 🌱 Sustainability initiatives, including LEED-certified developments and EV infrastructure 🚀 Exciting upcoming projects, like Fort Belvoir townhomes and single-soldier housing at Fort Irwin Caroline and Jose share valuable insights on how Michaels is shaping the future of military communities by enhancing quality of life and fostering innovation.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Cruz Rodriguez sits down with Senior Regional Facility Director Tom Fagan, a recent recipient of the 2024 Beyond the Rainbow Trendsetter Award. Tom shares what it means to be recognized for his forward-thinking approach, his passion for leveraging technology to empower teammates, and the value he found in connecting with peers at the latest Michaels Management Meetings.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Jed Henderson sits down with Kunal Chothani, Vice President of Acquisitions at Michaels, to uncover the intricate process of property acquisitions and its impact on creating thriving communities. Kunal shares his journey within Michaels, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the acquisitions process, and discusses the organization's commitment to addressing the housing needs of underserved markets. The conversation also delves into attainable housing—what it means, who it serves, and how Michaels is leading the charge to bridge the gap for middle-income families. Kunal reflects on his experience speaking at the "Unlocking Housing for the Missing Middle" panel and shares insights into Michaels’ vision for the future.
Michaels teammate and Regional Property Manager, Alex Gallegos, joins this week's episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels to talk about his career journey and winning one of the of the Regional Property Managers of the Year at the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings.
Michaels teammate and Regional Property Manager, Stacy Godsey, joins this week's episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels to talk about her career journey and winning one of the of the Michaels Trendsetter Awards at the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Jade Freehoff sits down with Sally Alonso, Community Manager at Park Kingsburg Apartments in California. With 35 years of dedication, Sally shares her incredible journey from kitchen prep to community leadership, the evolution of Park Kingsburg, and how they’re celebrating their 40th anniversary.
In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Jade Freehoff sits down with newly promoted Director of Corporate Marketing and Community Engagement, Courtney Zaccardi. With over nine years at Michaels, Courtney shares insights into her new role, the impact of the Michaels Organization Educational Foundation, and the exciting transition to a fully digital scholarship application system. She also discusses her leadership in DE&I initiatives, her involvement in the Young Professionals Network, and what makes Michaels such a special place to work.
In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, host Robin Madison sits down with Brandon Nielsen, a Regional Facilities Director overseeing multiple states. Brandon shares insights into his decade-long journey with Michaels, from starting as a trainee to becoming a leader in facilities management. He discusses his role in training, capital budgeting, and HUD compliance, as well as his experiences at the 2023 Achievers Summit and the Michaels Management Meetings. Plus, he reflects on the honor of being named a Regional Facilities Director of the Year. Tune in to hear Brandon’s inspiring story, his passion for leadership, and his nominations for future podcast guests!