The Comms Exchange: a Podcast by 30|90 Marketing

Rachel Ledet
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Marketing

The Comms Exchange is a podcast by 30|90 Marketing, a strategic marketing and communications firm dedicated to shaping communities, amplifying voices, and building visibility for projects and people. Hosted by Rachel Ledet, founder of 30|90, and Communications Director, Christianne Brunini, the show explores how communications drives strategy, builds trust, and creates momentum across the worlds of commercial real estate, economic development, and community-building. Each episode dives into the stories, strategies, and tactics that power successful projects. From conversations with industry leaders to behind-the-scenes insights from our own team, The Comms Exchange uncovers how the right message at the right time can change perceptions, spark investment, and inspire action. We believe that communications isn’t an afterthought; it’s the foundation of every successful endeavor. Whether it’s bringing a new development to market, launching a culture initiative within a company, or shifting public opinion to support bold community projects, communication is the common thread that determines success. This podcast explores those moments where strategy meets storytelling, where creativity intersects with execution, and where communities are built brick by brick. Listeners will gain insight into: -Strategic marketing frameworks — How to align communications with organizational goals. -Brand storytelling — Turning values, culture, and mission into messages that resonate. -Commercial real estate and development marketing — Tools and tactics that bring visibility to projects and engage stakeholders. -Economic development communications — Approaches that build trust, attract investment, and showcase impact. -Case studies and lessons learned — Real stories from our clients, our team, and industry peers about what works and what doesn’t. -Core values in practice — How values shape who you work with, how you operate, and how success is defined. At 30|90 Marketing, we know that every project, every partnership, and every breakthrough begins the same way: with a conversation. That belief is at the heart of The Comms Exchange.

  1. Aug 13

    Beyond Technical Expertise: The Leadership Skills That Build Trust and Win Work

    Technical expertise may get you into the room, but it’s how you communicate, lead, and connect with people that often determines what happens next. In this episode of The Comms Exchange, Rachel Ledet sits down with leadership coach Kene Iloenyosi to explore why some of the most technically talented professionals struggle when it comes time to lead a team, present an idea, build client trust, or communicate their value. Kene introduces the idea of developing a personal “leadership operating system” rooted in self-awareness: understanding who you are, how you show up, and how others experience you. For leaders and emerging leaders in architecture, engineering, construction, and other technical industries, that foundation can be just as important as technical knowledge. The conversation dives into the communication challenges technical experts often face, including how to move beyond simply delivering information to creating connection and trust. Kene shares practical insights on presentation skills, authenticity, energy, and why the strongest leaders don’t need to know everything. Instead, they need to understand their people and know how to bring out the expertise around them. Rachel and Kene also explore what AI and the future of work mean for leadership. As technology changes how organizations operate and how quickly information can be accessed, distinctly human skills like communication, judgment, trust, self-awareness, and relationship building become even more valuable. It’s a conversation about moving from technical expert to effective leader and why the way people experience your leadership can have as much impact as what you know. Key TakeawaysTechnical expertise alone doesn’t create trust. How you communicate your knowledge can determine whether clients and teams believe in your ability to lead.Every leader has an internal operating system. Greater self-awareness helps leaders understand how their behaviors, communication style, and presence affect the people around them.Great presentations are about connection, not just information. Energy, authenticity, and understanding your audience can transform the way technical professionals communicate.Leaders don’t need to know everything. Strong leaders surround themselves with people who know more than they do and understand how to leverage the strengths of their team.AI makes human leadership skills more important, not less. Technology will continue to reshape the workplace, but trust, judgment, relationships, and communication remain fundamentally human.Small changes can create significant leadership impact. Becoming a stronger leader doesn’t always require a dramatic transformation. Intentional changes in how you listen, communicate, and show up can change how others experience you.

  2. Aug 12

    From Section 8 to CEO: How Stable Housing Creates Second Chances

    What happens when someone who has experienced the affordable housing system firsthand becomes one of the people working to make it better? In this episode of The Comms Exchange, Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with Jenna Ghisolfo, founder and president of Housing Consultants of America, to talk about her remarkable journey from Section 8 resident and domestic violence survivor to entrepreneur and national affordable housing consultant. Jenna shares how her personal experience shaped her understanding of the life-changing impact of stable housing and ultimately led her to build a career around affordable housing compliance, consulting, and advocacy. She explains why compliance is more than paperwork, how proactive planning can protect affordable housing projects, and why housing vouchers can provide the stability families need to create a different future. The conversation also explores one of the biggest challenges facing affordable housing development today: public perception. Jenna discusses the importance of community engagement, storytelling, and creative approaches to overcoming NIMBYism and helping communities better understand who affordable housing serves and why it matters. Beyond housing, Jenna shares lessons from building and scaling a niche national consulting firm, including the value of mentorship, surrounding yourself with experts, developing confidence as a leader, and creating a strong company culture. It’s a conversation about affordable housing, community development, leadership, compliance, and the power of personal experience to change the way we communicate about the people and communities behind the projects. Key TakeawaysStable housing can change the trajectory of a life. Jenna’s own experience demonstrates why housing is about far more than a roof. It can provide stability, hope, and a second chance.Compliance should be proactive, not reactive. Strong affordable housing projects require compliance to be considered early and throughout the development and operational process.Community engagement can help combat NIMBYism. Thoughtful communication and storytelling can change public perceptions about affordable housing and the people it serves.Personal stories have the power to shift the conversation. Jenna’s willingness to share her own experience gives a human face to housing policy, vouchers, and affordable housing development.Leadership doesn’t mean being the expert at everything. Scaling a business requires surrounding yourself with talented people, trusting their expertise, and knowing when to delegate.Mentorship can change a career path. Having someone recognize your potential and encourage you to pursue an opportunity can create an entirely new trajectory.Affordable housing is community infrastructure. Creating access to stable housing strengthens families and contributes to healthier, more resilient communities.https://housingconsultantsofamerica.com/

  3. Jun 2

    How Restaurants Build Communities: Jeff Good on Entrepreneurship, Workforce & Revitalization

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with Jeff Good, President of Mangia Bene Restaurant Management Group, to explore how restaurants can serve as powerful catalysts for community development, workforce training, and neighborhood revitalization. Jeff shares his unlikely journey from selling computers to building one of Mississippi’s most recognized restaurant groups, including Bravo!, Broad Street Baking Company, Sal & Mookie’s, and a growing portfolio of community-focused ventures. Along the way, he reveals how grit, relationship-building, and a commitment to place helped transform a simple restaurant concept into a platform for lasting social impact. The conversation explores Jackson’s challenges and opportunities, the role restaurants play in creating vibrant third spaces, lessons learned from affordable housing and neighborhood reinvestment projects, and the importance of workforce development programs like Refill Café. Jeff also offers candid insights into hiring, leadership, customer service, and what it takes to build trust in both business and community. Whether you're a developer, entrepreneur, economic development professional, or community builder, this episode offers a compelling look at how local businesses can drive meaningful change far beyond their front doors. Key Takeaways: • Restaurants can be powerful drivers of community development and neighborhood revitalization. • Workforce development starts with creating opportunities and meeting people where they are. • Strong communities are built through intentional investment in people and place. • Third spaces create connection, belonging, and economic activity. • Customer trust is earned through consistency, accountability, and service. • Great operators understand that business success and community impact can go hand in hand. • Sometimes the best opportunities come from taking risks and building something where others see challenges. Resource Links: Mangia Bene Restaurant Group - https://mangiapartners.com/ Bravo Italian Restaurant - https://mangiapartners.com/our-restaurants/bravo-italian-restaurant/ Refill Cafe Program - https://refillcafe.org/

  4. Mar 31

    Affordable Housing Design That Works: Durability, Creativity & Community

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with Sarah Harjung, Director of Design at Wilshire Pacific Builders, to explore the hidden design decisions that shape affordable housing communities. With more than 20 years of interior design experience, Sarah now leads multifamily renovation projects across the country, working at the intersection of design, construction, and compliance. She shares how thoughtful material choices, durable products, and creative design solutions can improve resident experience while keeping projects within strict budgets and regulatory requirements. The conversation dives into how design teams approach renovations of older properties, balance aesthetics with long-term maintenance, and create community spaces that residents actually use. Sarah also shares lessons learned from historic renovations, the value of collaboration with contractors and vendors, and why durability is one of the most important design strategies in affordable housing. Whether you're a developer, architect, designer, or housing advocate, this episode offers practical insights into how design decisions impact the long-term success of multifamily housing. Key Takeaways Affordable housing design is about durability and long-term performance, not just aesthetics.Renovation projects often require creative solutions to meet ADA and modern building standards.Material choices such as quartz countertops and luxury vinyl plank flooring can reduce maintenance costs over time.Community spaces are where designers can create the most meaningful resident impact.Successful projects require collaboration between designers, contractors, vendors, and ownership teams For more information visit https://wilshirepacific.com/

  5. Mar 20

    Beyond the Hype: What AI Really Means for AEC Firms and Their Future

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with Kristin Kautz, founder of Jam Idea Agency, to unpack one of the most pressing shifts facing the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry today: artificial intelligence. Kristin shares why this moment in AI adoption is fundamentally different from past waves of technology and why AEC firms can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines. Rather than replacing jobs, AI is reshaping roles across every level of an organization, requiring firms to rethink how teams operate, how work gets done, and how value is delivered to clients. At the center of the conversation is Jam Idea Agency’s five-phase AI accelerator, a structured framework designed to help firms move from curiosity to implementation. Kristin emphasizes the importance of defining a clear “why” before adopting AI, aligning leadership around that vision, and embedding AI into existing workflows rather than treating it as a side initiative. The discussion also explores how client expectations are evolving, with increasing demand for speed, quality, and insight, and what that means for pricing, differentiation, and long-term competitiveness. For leaders navigating this shift, Kristin offers practical guidance on training teams, building internal buy-in, and approaching AI as a people-first transformation, not just a technology upgrade. This episode is a must-listen for AEC leaders, marketers, and business developers looking to understand how AI will shape the future of their firms  and how to take the first step with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways: AI is not just another tool — it represents a fundamental shift in how work gets done across AEC firmsThe impact of AI is organization-wide, transforming roles rather than replacing themSuccessful adoption starts with a clear “why” tied to business goals and client valueLeadership alignment and training are critical to driving meaningful changeAI should be integrated into existing workflows, not treated as a standalone initiativeClients will expect faster turnaround, higher quality, and more strategic insightAI does not automatically mean lower fees — it can elevate value and positioningDelegating AI to already busy staff without structure will limit successA phased, strategic approach (like a structured accelerator) improves adoption outcomesPeople — not technology — remain the key driver of innovation and long-term growthYou can find Jam Idea Agency online at www.jamideaagency.com

  6. Mar 17

    Reviving Downtown Monroe: Leadership, Storytelling, and the Future of North Louisiana

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with State Representative and Real Estate Developer Michael Echols to explore how leadership, storytelling, and strategic investment are shaping the future of Monroe and the broader I-20 corridor. Michael shares his journey from private sector developer to public servant, offering a firsthand perspective on what it takes to move a community forward. At the center of the conversation is the revitalization of downtown Monroe — and why strong downtowns serve as both the cultural and economic heartbeat of a region. From historic preservation to housing development, he unpacks how thoughtful planning and community buy-in can create lasting impact. The discussion also dives into the realities of economic development in Louisiana, including the need to balance affordable and market-rate housing, strengthen public safety and education, and create a business environment that attracts long-term investment. Michael also reflects on his radio show, Echols at 8, and how consistent communication and storytelling can elevate important issues and connect people to progress in a meaningful way. This episode highlights the intersection of policy, development, and communications, and why saying “yes” to opportunity (paired with a clear vision) can unlock momentum for communities across Louisiana and beyond.

  7. Jan 28

    When Construction Becomes a Classroom: Rethinking Workforce Development

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini explore workforce development through a very literal lens: the construction site. Their guest is Aaron Frumin, founder and CEO of Uncommon Construction, a nonprofit that has spent more than a decade transforming how young people enter the workforce. Uncommon Construction brings high school students from across New Orleans together as paid construction apprentices, turning the process of building a house into a real-world classroom. Over the course of a semester, students earn wages, academic credit, and hands-on experience while developing the technical, leadership, and soft skills needed to succeed on job sites and beyond. The homes they help build enter the housing market, allowing buyers to invest not only in a property, but in the future of local youth. Aaron shares the origin of the program, why economic participation is central to youth empowerment, and how paying students for their labor creates confidence, accountability, and long-term opportunity. The conversation also dives into the role of industry partnerships, the realities of workforce shortages in the construction sector, and Uncommon’s expansion beyond Louisiana into Minneapolis — offering a glimpse into how this model can scale nationally. This episode is a thoughtful look at how education, housing, and workforce development intersect — and how reimagining the classroom can help build stronger communities, stronger industries, and a more prepared next generation. To learn more or to support this organization visit www.uncommonconstruction.com

  8. Jan 26

    Affordable Housing Under Pressure: Audits, Compliance, and Strategy with Aprio

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini go behind the spreadsheets with Amanda Roy and Alison Fossyl of Aprio to unpack the financial, regulatory, and strategic realities shaping affordable housing today. Amanda and Alison share what they are seeing firsthand across public housing authorities, LIHTC developments, and complex real estate portfolios, from tightening margins and construction delays to increasing compliance pressure and evolving HUD and REAC requirements. They break down where deals most often get stuck, why exit planning needs to start far earlier than most developers expect, and how outdated systems quietly slow audits and strain internal teams. The conversation also explores how technology and AI are beginning to transform audits and financial reporting, shifting them from backward-looking compliance exercises into forward-looking strategic tools. Amanda and Alison discuss how better data, cloud-based systems, and automation can help owners, developers, and PHAs make faster decisions, reduce risk, and strengthen long-term portfolio performance. Beyond the numbers, this episode highlights the importance of communication, trust, and mentorship in the affordable housing ecosystem. From building strong auditor–client relationships to creating pathways for women leaders in housing finance, Amanda and Alison offer a candid look at what effective leadership looks like in a highly regulated, high-stakes industry. Key topics include: Affordable housing audits and compliancePublic housing authority financial strategyLIHTC, HUD, and REAC challengesExit planning and long-term deal riskTechnology and AI in financial reportingAuditor–client communication best practicesMentorship and women in housing leadership If you’re a developer, CFO, housing authority leader, asset manager, or board member navigating today’s affordable housing landscape, this episode offers practical insight into how the numbers behind the deal can either stall a project or move it forward. Learn more at www.aprio.com

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5
out of 5
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About

The Comms Exchange is a podcast by 30|90 Marketing, a strategic marketing and communications firm dedicated to shaping communities, amplifying voices, and building visibility for projects and people. Hosted by Rachel Ledet, founder of 30|90, and Communications Director, Christianne Brunini, the show explores how communications drives strategy, builds trust, and creates momentum across the worlds of commercial real estate, economic development, and community-building. Each episode dives into the stories, strategies, and tactics that power successful projects. From conversations with industry leaders to behind-the-scenes insights from our own team, The Comms Exchange uncovers how the right message at the right time can change perceptions, spark investment, and inspire action. We believe that communications isn’t an afterthought; it’s the foundation of every successful endeavor. Whether it’s bringing a new development to market, launching a culture initiative within a company, or shifting public opinion to support bold community projects, communication is the common thread that determines success. This podcast explores those moments where strategy meets storytelling, where creativity intersects with execution, and where communities are built brick by brick. Listeners will gain insight into: -Strategic marketing frameworks — How to align communications with organizational goals. -Brand storytelling — Turning values, culture, and mission into messages that resonate. -Commercial real estate and development marketing — Tools and tactics that bring visibility to projects and engage stakeholders. -Economic development communications — Approaches that build trust, attract investment, and showcase impact. -Case studies and lessons learned — Real stories from our clients, our team, and industry peers about what works and what doesn’t. -Core values in practice — How values shape who you work with, how you operate, and how success is defined. At 30|90 Marketing, we know that every project, every partnership, and every breakthrough begins the same way: with a conversation. That belief is at the heart of The Comms Exchange.

Information

  • Creator
    Rachel Ledet
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Rachel Ledet