WAHNcast

In this episode of WAHNcast, Angie Truitt sits down with Emily Promise, CEO of Shorepoint Advisory Group and a trusted financial planner committed to helping women build confidence, clarity, and long-term financial stability. Emily shares practical, approachable guidance on creating strong financial foundations, navigating career transitions, and building wealth in ways that align with personal values and community impact. From understanding your balance sheet and budgeting without overwhelm to preparing for career pivots, homeownership, and generational giving, this conversation demystifies money and puts women back in the driver’s seat. Emily also joins WAHNcast as a recurring guest, offering quarterly financial insights to WAHN members at no cost because access to financial knowledge shouldn’t be a barrier to leadership or impact. Whether you’re early in your career, considering a transition, or thinking about legacy and giving, this episode offers tools, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help you plan with intention and confidence.

What does it mean to be dressed by love? In this episode of WAHNCast, Angie Truitt and Celia Gunn-Zaboli are joined by Karen Martin-Spellerberg of The Princess Project, a nonprofit that has spent more than two decades creating spaces where teens are not only dressed for prom, but wrapped in dignity, confidence, and belonging. Karen shares powerful stories of transformation — teens who arrive unsure and guarded and leave standing taller, parents experiencing the rare freedom of telling their child, “You can choose anything you want,” and volunteers who return year after year because of the joy this work creates. The conversation explores how The Princess Project goes far beyond formalwear, offering mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a community where every young woman is seen and celebrated without conditions. This episode also highlights why The Princess Project is the 2026 WAHNprom beneficiary charity, and how partnerships, volunteers, and donors help sustain a mission rooted in love. Support ensures that every teen who walks through their doors feels confident, welcomed, and worthy.  To donate visit https://www.princessprojectsd.org/donate Monetary donations help fund year-round programming and allow The Princess Project to purchase dresses in hard-to-find sizes so no teen is ever turned away. Other ways to support include: • Donating prom dresses or accessories • Volunteering with a local chapter • Sharing The Princess Project with schools, families, and community partners Every contribution helps create moments that last long after prom night ends.

In this episode of WAHNcast, we sit down with leaders from CohnReznick to unpack insights from the 2025 Affordable Housing Credit Study, one of the most widely referenced performance benchmarks in the LIHTC industry. Hosted by Stephanie Sleva, Senior Assurance Manager at CohnReznick and Founding Member and Board President of the Pennsylvania chapter of WAHN, the conversation explores how LIHTC portfolios are performing post-pandemic, what trends are holding steady, and where new pressures are reshaping underwriting, operations, and policy. Stephanie is joined by: Cindy Fang, Partner at CohnReznick and Tax Credit Investment Services Leader, as well as a member of WAHN’s National Sponsorship Committee, who shares key takeaways from nearly 25 years of the study and what they signal for investors and developers. Regan St. Pierre, Director at CohnReznick and Co-Author of the Affordable Housing Credit Study, who highlights what makes the study unique and how stakeholders can use its interactive tools to inform smarter decision-making. The episode also includes a special moment honoring Beth Mullen, CohnReznick’s Affordable Housing Industry Leader and WAHN’s Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, recognized for her extraordinary impact on the industry, her mentorship, and her unwavering commitment to advocacy. Together, this conversation reinforces a powerful message: the LIHTC program remains resilient, effective, and essential—and the data behind it matters more than ever. Access the full 2025 Affordable Housing Credit Study and interactive tools: https://creditstudy.cohnreznick.com

What does it take to steward an entire housing portfolio for nearly three decades? In this episode, hosts Ashley Northcutt and industry legend Babbie Jaco sit down with Colleen Fisher, Executive Director of the Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), for a deep and candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and the future of rural affordable housing. Colleen reflects on her 28-year tenure leading CARH, tracing the organization’s origins, the evolution of rural housing policy, and the high-stakes challenges facing the USDA rural housing portfolio today, from mortgage maturity and preservation to technology gaps and workforce strain. Together, Colleen and Babbie unpack what makes rural housing distinct, why it remains one of the most stable yet misunderstood asset classes, and how community, trust, and long-term commitment define success. The conversation also explores women’s leadership in affordable housing, the importance of patience and institutional memory, and why mentoring the next generation matters more than ever. This episode is both a masterclass in rural housing policy and a powerful reminder of the human impact behind the work.

This episode of WAHNcast is a celebration of growth, community, and six years of building something powerful together. Angie Truitt, Vice President of Communications for the Women’s Affordable Housing Network (WAHN), is joined by WAHN’s CEO and President, Ashley Northcutt, to mark WAHN’s birthday and reflect on how far the organization has come. From the early days of explaining that “WAHN isn’t a person,” to sold-out national summits, national recognition through the Giving List, and a rapidly growing chapter network, this conversation captures the heart of what WAHN has become. Whether you’ve been part of WAHN from the beginning or are discovering it for the first time, this episode is a reminder of why this work matters and why it’s better when we do it together.

In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, host Ashley Northcutt interviews Bob Moss, one of the most respected champions of affordable housing policy in the United States. Bob traces his unexpected entry into the industry—from renting apartments in Maine to working alongside pioneers like Herb Collins and David Resnick—and shares how early lessons in advocacy shaped his approach on Capitol Hill. He discusses the pivotal formation of the ACTION Campaign, the power of unified messaging, and why true housing equity requires creativity, bipartisan collaboration, and relentless persistence. Bob also reflects on women’s leadership, mentorship, innovation in housing finance and technology, and the need to rethink how we build. In a heartfelt turn, Bob opens up about the role art and painting played in grounding him during the pandemic and how creativity continues to influence his professional life. This episode is both a history lesson and a masterclass in leadership—delivered with humility, humor, and decades of hard-earned insight.

In this episode of WAHNcast, host Ashley Northcutt sits down with Emma Schumaker, Senior Associate at Fairview Housing Partners and Lincoln Avenue Communities, whose work exemplifies resident-centered, heart-driven leadership in affordable housing. Emma shares how Fairview’s mission—to strengthen communities through direct services, deep partnerships, and creative approaches to financing—comes to life through programs like Family Resource Days, youth enrichment initiatives, and their powerful new scholarship and grants program for residents. Emma offers an inside look at what it means to build trust with residents, collaborate with local nonprofits, and listen deeply to community needs. She also reflects on stories from scholarship recipients that continue to fuel her passion for this work, reminding us that breaking down barriers to opportunity can transform generations. This conversation is a celebration of compassion, partnership, and the belief that stable housing paired with meaningful support opens doors to brighter futures. A perfect reflection heading into the season of giving.

In this episode of WAHNcast, hosts Angie Truitt and Ashley Northcutt sit down with Julia Pierson, Executive Director of the Consortium for Housing and Asset Management (CHAM) and one of the most respected voices in affordable housing. Julia reflects on her four-decade career, from her start as a HUD intern to becoming a nationally recognized leader shaping the field of asset management. Julia breaks down what asset management really is, why it matters, and how strong partnerships between owners, syndicators, lenders, and HFAs can mean the difference between stable properties and those at risk. She also discusses the evolution of the field, the growing demand for skilled asset managers, and the importance of technical knowledge paired with strong soft skills. As Julia prepares for her upcoming retirement, she shares her vision for CHAM’s future, the culture she has intentionally cultivated, and why she believes “housing policy is human policy.” This conversation is full of insight, clarity, humor, and heart, just like Julia herself.

In this deeply moving episode of WAHNcast, host Ashley Northcutt sits down with Michele Stowe, founder of Skyrocket Coaching and former COO of Mercy Housing, and Shannon Wallis, founder and managing director of Cascade Leadership and former global director of High Potential Leadership Development at Microsoft. Together, they explore how profound loss can reveal the truest forms of leadership. Drawing from their essays in the new anthology Lives Lost and Leadership Found, Michelle reflects on the legacy of Sister Lillian Murphy, the visionary CEO of Mercy Housing, while Shannon shares lessons learned from her mother’s journey through resilience, disability, and love. This conversation challenges the notion that leadership is about titles — instead, it’s a practice rooted in presence, empathy, and action. From “assuming positive intent” to “underlooking” others, Michele and Shannon remind us that leadership begins in the smallest acts of compassion. Tune in for insights that connect loss, love, and legacy — and rediscover the heart of what it means to lead.  And get your copy of Lives Lost and Leadership Found and Shannon's new book, WE the Change: Launching Big Ideas and Creating New Realities, on our website.

In honor of Veterans Day, this special episode of WAHNcast spotlights the inspiring work of Gorman & Company and their veteran-centered housing developments. Host Angie Truitt speaks with Rachel Snethen, Director of Development Operations, and Sally Schwenn, Arizona Market President, about the company’s efforts to build communities that go beyond shelter—providing wraparound services, mental health support, job training, and a true sense of belonging for America’s veterans. From the Valor on Eighth development in Tempe, Arizona—a pioneering community for women veterans and families—to the Fort Whipple Project in Prescott and Valor in Washington (Madison, WI), Rachel and Sally share how public–private partnerships, local service providers, and dedicated nonprofit partners are transforming lives through housing. They also discuss national progress in reducing veteran homelessness by 50%, the importance of supportive services, and how to connect veterans in need with help right now. Resources and Links Mentioned: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Housing Assistance: va.gov/housing-assistance VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000 National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 1-877-424-3838 Veterans Crisis Line (24/7): Dial 988, then Press 1 Gorman & Company: www.GormanUSA.com US VETS (Veteran Nonprofit Partner): www.dryhootch.org Thank you to Gorman & Company for generously sponsoring this episode! Listen wherever you get your podcasts and join us in honoring veterans by supporting the organizations that build safe, stable, and supportive homes for those who served.

In this episode of WAHNcast, host Ashley Northcutt sits down with Dr. Reginald Parker, President and Chairman of Freedmen Green Bank & Trust, to explore how clean energy, finance, and community development can work together to build true equity. Dr. Parker — an engineer, innovator, and visionary leader — shares how his journey from technology and consulting to community banking became a mission to “make it make sense” for those historically excluded from opportunity. From financing solar projects for churches and schools to redefining how creditworthiness is measured, Dr. Parker and his team are proving that sustainability and social justice are inseparable. This conversation dives deep into: The intersection of energy equity and economic empowerment How community-led finance can build generational wealth What it means to “win or learn” as a principle for leadership and innovation Why women — and organizations like WAHN — are essential to shaping the next era of clean energy and affordable housing Whether you’re in housing, development, or advocacy, this episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven progress.

In this deeply personal WAHNcast conversation, host Ashley Northcutt sits down with Brooke Etie, Cayleigh Miller, and Liz Childers — three women whose lives have been shaped by breast cancer in powerful ways. Together, they pull back the pink ribbon to talk about the hard truths behind awareness: missed mammograms, environmental causes, body image, advocacy, and the mental and emotional toll of diagnosis and caregiving. They share how early detection and self-advocacy saved lives, how supportive workplaces — like Quadel, Eisner Amper, and DOZ — made healing possible, and why being open about the reality of cancer can change how we care for ourselves and each other. This episode is as real as it gets: raw, informative, and full of the strength we don’t often see. Resources Mentioned: Freedom Natural Deodorant – a clean alternative created with women’s health in mind SheMD – preventive health, risk testing, and education for women Flat Out Love – community and advocacy for women choosing to go flat after mastectomy Food Babe – clean food movement and ingredient transparency Cancer Vaccine Collaborative – advancing research toward a breast cancer vaccine Breast Cancer & the Strength We Don’t See is a reminder that awareness is only the beginning — advocacy, compassion, and conversation are what truly move us forward.

Note: This episode includes discussion of survivor recovery and support in the context of domestic violence and human trafficking. In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, we’re honored to bring you this inspiring conversation on WAHNcast. Hosts Angie Truitt and New England WAHN President Susanna Medoff sit down with Vanessa Volz, President and CEO of Sojourner House, a Rhode Island nonprofit redefining what survivor support and housing can look like. Vanessa shares how Sojourner House evolved from a small crisis hotline into a multifaceted agency offering trauma-informed housing, legal aid, and wrap-around support for hundreds of survivors and families each year. She reflects on her leadership journey — from attorney to nonprofit change-agent — and how building safe, stable homes is a key part of helping survivors rebuild their lives. This conversation highlights: the critical role of safe, affordable housing in healing and stability how partnerships and systems change make a difference what it means to stand with survivors, always If you or someone you know is in need of help, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or visit thehotline.org — confidential support and local resources are available 24/7. Listen now and join us in honoring survivors and advancing hope, healing and community. Visit: https://sojournerri.org

In this episode of the WAHNcast, host Ashley Northcutt sits down with Donna Bullock, President and CEO of Project HOME and former Pennsylvania State Representative, to explore how housing can heal and empower entire communities. From growing up with housing insecurity to now leading one of Philadelphia’s most transformative nonprofits, Donna shares her journey of resilience, purpose, and partnership. Under her leadership, Project HOME continues to thrive — backed by a powerful community that includes the Philadelphia Eagles and Jon Bon Jovi, both champions for housing and hope in the city they love. Donna talks about the importance of collaboration, meeting people where they are, and building a future where every Philadelphian has a place to call home.

Valerie White’s career spans over three decades in finance, housing, and community development—from shaping bond ratings and housing authority strategies at S&P to leading statewide MWBE initiatives and now serving as Head of National Housing Strategic Initiatives at LISC. In this WAHNcast conversation with Ashley Northcutt, Valerie shares her journey, the bold three-pronged strategy LISC is deploying to expand affordable housing, and the critical role of thought leadership, capital access, and community partnerships. From working with emerging developers and faith-based institutions to advocating for transformative policies, Valerie’s vision is rooted in equity, innovation, and collaboration. Listeners will gain insights into how national systems can better support local communities, and how women leaders can sustain momentum in the face of the industry’s toughest challenges.

In this episode of WAHNcast, host Angie Truitt takes the field with some of our WAHN Allies to talk about what allyship looks like in affordable housing today. Joined by Ally Committee co-chairs Abe Kruger and Ben Goates, Mike Duffy (WAHN’s 2025 Ally of the Year), and Brian Philps of Indiana WAHN, the conversation explores how allies are helping women’s voices lead the industry. From the origins of the Ally Committee to the new Ally Community initiative, the group shares stories of mentorship, practical support, and showing up on the front lines, from running the mic at Summit sessions to reshaping who sits on industry panels. Along the way, they highlight the Ally Pledge, the importance of visibility, and the teamwork it takes to move the ball down the field. Whether you’re new to the concept of allyship or already signed the pledge, this episode will give you a clear playbook for building an affordable housing industry that works for everyone.

In this episode of WAHNcast, Angie Truitt teams up with co-hosts Megan Goyer and Britney Watson, Co-Chairs of the UNC Chapel Hill WAHN U Chapter, for a powerful conversation with Kate Rodgers, Co-Chair of the Student HOMES Coalition and recent UCLA graduate. Kate shares how she helped launch a statewide student coalition after realizing that conversations around college affordability were leaving out one of the biggest costs students face: housing. She talks about leading advocacy campaigns as a student, building bridges across 16+ campuses, and why she believes student housing is not just a policy issue but a basic need and a human right. Listeners will hear: Why housing costs are often the biggest barrier to higher education in California How students are driving real legislative change at the state level What it takes to build trust and collaboration across diverse groups—from student leaders to labor unions to universities Kate’s advice for emerging leaders: “If something feels a little scary or makes you feel out of your depth, that’s probably a sign you should go that direction—because that’s where you’ll learn the most.” This is an energizing conversation about advocacy, leadership, and the next generation of housing changemakers.

In this inspiring episode, Ashley Northcutt, President & CEO of WAHN, sits down with Beth Baar, Vice President of Asset Management, Construction & Stabilized Assets at Cinnaire and our 2025 WAHNderful Woman of the Year. Beth shares her journey from volunteering at a small community nonprofit in rural Wisconsin to leading asset management across multiple states. She reflects on how a single moment helping a senior apply for affordable housing showed her the life-changing impact of this work, and why she’s committed to creating what she calls “a world of good.”

In this inspiring episode of WAHNcast, WAHN President & CEO Ashley Northcutt sits down with Kathleen Guillaume-Delemar, President and CEO of the Center for Community Progress. Kat shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Brooklyn in the shadow of entrenched poverty and systemic inequities, to becoming a nationally recognized leader in community revitalization. With candor and passion, Kat discusses how her lived experience informs her leadership, why she believes in “daring to dream,” and how vacant and abandoned properties can be transformed into community assets. She also unpacks the role of policy, philanthropy, and unlikely allies in creating dignified, affordable housing—and makes a powerful case against the criminalization of poverty. This is a conversation about resilience, justice, and the possibility of building communities where everyone belongs.