The Digible Dudes

Digible
The Digible Dudes

The Digible Dudes podcast brings you weekly interviews with the most influential minds in the apartment marketing world. You will learn the inner workings of multifamily marketing so you can know exactly what’s happening. Each week, Reid Wicoff and David Staley sit down with guests that are at the front of multifamily marketing to share their stories. If you want to get ahead, this podcast is for you.

  1. DEC 11

    EP216: The Ultimate Solution to Multifamily Utility Management (Public Grid)

    In this episode of the Digible Dudes podcast, we’re joined by Joe Robbins, Co-Founder of Public Grid, to explore how technology and innovation are disrupting utility management in the multifamily real estate industry. Joe shares his unique journey—from creating an award-winning documentary to co-founding Public Grid, a platform designed to simplify utility account setup, save residents money, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  We dive into the pressing issues multifamily operators face today, including utility theft, inefficiencies in energy management, and the complexity of meeting environmental legislation. Joe explains how Public Grid bridges these gaps through automated processes, smart integrations, and programs like community solar and demand response.  Joe also discusses the company’s long-term vision, the importance of balancing growth with operational stability, and how Public Grid is paving the way for a more sustainable future. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into multifamily real estate and energy solutions! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Introduction to Public Grid   (01:10) Why Utility Management Needs Innovation   (03:45) The Pain of Setting Up Utility Accounts   (07:30) Public Grid’s Mission (11:00) The Story Behind Public Grid’s Name   (14:15) Joe Robbins’ Journey (18:10) Simplifying Utility Management (22:45) How Public Grid Saves Residents Money   (28:50) Public Grid’s Business Model   (32:00) Navigating the Energy Supply and Demand Space   (36:40) Common Challenges in Energy Management   (40:10) Why Public Grid is a No-Brainer Solution   (44:00) Growth Challenges and Strategic Expansion   (48:20) The Vision for Public Grid’s Future

    57 min
  2. DEC 4

    EP215: How to Build a Successful Property Management Business in 2025

    In this episode of the Digible Dudes podcast, we’re joined by Misty Rowell, founder of Elev8 Residential, for an in-depth look at developing property management for small and mid-sized landlords. With over two decades of industry experience, Misty shares her journey from working in property management to launching her own company, Elev8 Residential, aimed at filling critical gaps in the market. Misty opens up about the challenges facing property management today, including staffing shortages, scope creep, and balancing operational efficiency with personalized service. She explains how Elev8 Residential is pioneering a new approach—offering on-site expertise, centralized systems, and a client-first mindset—to deliver better results for property owners and their tenants. We explore the importance of operational excellence, transparent communication, and building strong client relationships in property management. Misty dives into her leadership philosophy, emphasizing vulnerability, continuous learning, and creating a culture of excitement and engagement for her team. She also shares her strategies for staying hands-on in operations, maintaining high standards, and preparing for the future of property management. Like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into property management and real estate trends! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Introduction  (02:15) Misty’s Journey in Entrepreneurship (08:08) Filling the Gaps in Property Management (11:32) Problems with Property Management  (12:52) Starting Elev8 Residential: Planning and Preparation (15:15) Retaining Staff and Building Trust (20:06) Defining Success in Property Management (22:54) Differentiating Elev8 Residential in the Market (24:48) Saying No to the Wrong Clients (27:37) Managing Scope Creep in Property Management (32:08) The Importance of Flexibility and Transparency (38:46) Staying Hands-On as a Founder (44:45) Balancing Operations and Leadership Growth (49:29) Hiring Smarter: Building Strong Teams (55:05) Promoting Internally vs. Hiring Externally (01:02:25) Advice for Aspiring Property Managers

    1h 8m
  3. NOV 21

    EP214: The Shocking Truth About Multifamily Fraud with 100’s Caren Maio

    In this episode, we’re joined by Caren Maio, CEO and co-founder of 100, for a deep dive into the challenges of fraud in multifamily housing and her innovative approach to solving this billion-dollar problem. Karen shares her journey from founding Funnel, a leading prop-tech company, to creating 100—a groundbreaking solution designed to eliminate bias, fraud, and friction from the multifamily screening process. Drawing on her extensive experience in property technology, Karen offers candid insights into what it takes to build a successful startup, navigate industry challenges, and develop solutions that truly make an impact. We explore the growing sophistication of fraud in multifamily housing, including identity and income fraud, and discuss why this issue remains unsolved despite existing solutions. Karen explains how 100 integrates lessons from industries like fintech and aviation to deliver a comprehensive and efficient fraud prevention tool tailored to property management companies.  From branding strategies and entrepreneurial lessons to navigating legislative hurdles and creating a must-have product, Karen provides invaluable takeaways for anyone in prop-tech, multifamily housing, or entrepreneurship. Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Fraud in Multifamily Housing (01:00) Introducing Caren Maio and 100 (04:22) The Mission of 100: Eliminating Bias, Fraud, and Friction (06:50) Karen’s Prop-Tech Journey: From Funnel to 100 (09:24) Lessons from a Second-Time Founder (13:48) Defining Success in Business Ventures (19:20) First-to-Market vs. Improving Existing Solutions (21:28) Why Fraud Remains Unsolved in Multifamily (25:05) The Hidden Costs of Fraud in Property Management (31:33) Creating a Win-Win for Renters and Operators (34:25) Fraud Detection Insights (36:34) Pricing a Startup: Aligning Incentives with Customers (41:51) Building a Scalable, Sustainable Business Model (45:35) Overcoming Objections in the Prop-Tech Space (47:17) Why 100 Is a Game-Changer for Multifamily Operators

    49 min
  4. NOV 13

    EP213: The Ultimate Guide to Implementing KPIs in Your Business

    In this episode of the Digible Dudes Podcast, David and Reid explore the challenges and strategies behind building and optimizing effective scorecards and KPIs for businesses. With candid discussions on leading vs. lagging indicators, time-boxed experimentation, and balancing accountability with team autonomy, this episode unpacks what it takes to drive measurable outcomes while maintaining organizational flexibility.   David and Reid share personal stories, reflect on lessons learned from frameworks like EOS, "Traction," and "Good to Great," and debate the balance between focusing on fundamentals versus pursuing advanced metrics. They also dive into cross-industry applications of scorecards, offering actionable insights for leaders aiming to create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.   Key Topics & Highlights: Leading vs. Lagging Indicators: Why understanding the difference is critical for success.   Time-Boxed Metrics: The power of 90-day scorecards to adapt and improve.   Balancing Autonomy and Accountability: How to implement KPIs without stifling creativity.   Behavioral Metrics in Practice: Real examples of aligning actions with business outcomes.   Cross-Industry Scorecard Insights: What multifamily, marketing, and tech companies can learn from each other.   Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable business insights! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Leading Behaviors vs. Outcomes   (01:22) The Challenge of Defining Scorecards   (03:04) Understanding Leading vs. Lagging Indicators   (06:42) Aligning Metrics with Business Behaviors   (08:22) Setting Theories and Baselines for Success   (10:26) Real-World Examples of Behavioral Metrics   (15:25) Autonomy and Accountability in KPI Design   (18:31) Lagging Indicators vs. Behavioral Drivers   (20:40) Learning from Top Performers in Teams   (22:44) Case Study: Walgreens’ Metric Innovation   (24:01) GPT vs. Google for Business Insights   (25:22) Applying Metrics to Multifamily Properties   (27:54) Evolving Metrics: From Basics to Advanced   (33:22) Time-Boxing Metrics for Continuous Growth   (35:45) Mastery of Fundamentals vs. Advanced Strategies   (41:24) Sports Lessons for Business Success   (46:37) Balancing Basics and Innovation in Metrics   (50:28) How to Craft Great Scorecards

    51 min
  5. NOV 9

    EP212: How to Build High-Performance Teams for Multifamily Management

    In this episode of the Digible Dudes Podcast, hosts David and Reid dive deep into the art of running lean and efficient teams, sharing insights from their own experiences leading growing organizations.   With candid discussions on value statements, zero-based budgeting, and the complexities of scaling without compromising culture, this episode tackles some of the biggest challenges leaders face today. David and Reid explore how to align team roles with measurable outcomes, why accountability matters at every level, and how to strike the delicate balance between profitability and workplace satisfaction. They reflect on the differences between fast-moving organizations like Netflix and methodical ones like Slack, debating which approach is better for sustainable growth. The conversation also covers how clear expectations and innovative hiring practices can transform team dynamics and prevent inefficiencies. Key Topics & Highlights:   Value Statements Redefined: Why every role needs a clear purpose and measurable outcomes.   Zero-Based Budgeting for Teams: A revolutionary approach to rethinking roles and processes for maximum efficiency.   Balancing Culture and Profitability: How to maintain employee satisfaction while driving business growth.   Accountability at Every Level: Why it’s essential for both frontline support and C-suite executives.   Leadership Lessons from Netflix vs. Slack: Choosing the right operational model for your business.   The Power of Reverse Value Statements: What happens when you reevaluate the impact of every position.   Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Preview and Introduction (01:45) What Are Value Statements and Why They Matter   (04:35) Aligning Roles with Business Outcomes and Profitability   (07:38) Complexity of Back-Office Contributions   (09:54) Zero-Based Budgeting (12:04) Balancing Culture, Talent Retention, and Cost-Cutting   (16:10) Strategic Hires vs. Operational Flexibility   (19:07) Choosing Your Business Growth Model   (22:27) The Importance of Accountability in Leadership   (26:14) Systematizing Processes for Better Team Performance   (31:44) Balancing Work-Life Integration and Outcome-Driven Success   (36:49) The 20-Mile March: Setting Sustainable Goals   (41:55) Value-Based Compensation: Rethinking Employee Rewards   (54:11) Reverse Value Statements: Evaluating the Impact of Every Role   (58:34) The Role of Customer Experience in Team Strategy   (01:02:01) Giving Teams Autonomy to Achieve Results   (01:04:21) How to Scale Efficiently

    1h 14m
  6. NOV 6

    EP211: The Secret to Better Property Management with Fortress OS

    In this episode, we’re joined by Kerri Davis, CEO and founder of Fortress OS, for an in-depth look at her journey in property management and the potential of Fortress OS as an operating system for multifamily real estate.  With a diverse background spanning law, accounting, military service, and real estate, Kerri shares how her unconventional path led to the founding of Fortress, a property management solution tailored to tackle the unique challenges of affordable housing. She offers a candid take on the industry's traditional pain points, from outdated software and slow tech adoption to the complexities of managing affordable and conventional units. Kerri discusses the principles that drive her leadership at Fortress, including her philosophy of “front-stabbing” for honest feedback, the importance of balancing work intensity with rest, and how her team stays grounded through practices like meditation.  Diving into the technical side, she explains why Fortress OS was designed with an affordable-first approach and emphasizes the need for seamless integrations with existing accounting systems to streamline operations and empower property managers. Key Topics & Highlights: Discover how Fortress OS is reshaping property management for affordable housing and why it stands out in a crowded market. Learn about the challenges of adopting new technology in a conservative industry and how Fortress OS overcomes these barriers. Explore Kerri’s radical approach to leadership, including her unique methods for building a resilient, high-performing team. Understand why Kerri believes multifamily housing isn’t a commodity and the implications for pricing strategy and revenue management. Get insights into the future of property management technology, including AI integrations, flexible tech stacks, and data transparency. Like, comment, and subscribe for more! Digible:⁠ https://digible.com/ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Preview and Introduction  (02:47) Kerri’s Leadership Philosophy (07:00) Exploring Kerri's Career Path (13:20) Meditation and Team Balance at Fortress (19:10) The Fortress OS Vision and Purpose (22:55) Why Fortress OS is Different from Competitors (25:29) Fortress OS as a Complete Property Management Solution (29:25) Balancing Affordable and Conventional Units (33:08) Challenges in Property Management Software (37:19) Strategic Partnerships and Prioritizing Integrations (41:16) Overcoming Industry Hesitation to Adopt New Solutions (45:16) Addressing Common Pricing Misconceptions (50:07) The Industry’s Approach to Pricing and Discounts (55:47) Avoiding Fear-Based Pricing Decisions (01:01:36) Artificial Intelligence in Property Management

    1h 9m
  7. OCT 23

    EP209: How To Use AI To Optimize Your Property Management | Maddie Grussendorf

    In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Grusendorf, Industry Principal at Get 100, to explore how AI is reshaping property management strategies in the multifamily sector. Maddie shares how multifamily and real estate companies can leverage cutting-edge AI tools like Elise AI to streamline lead management, enhance leasing processes, and improve tenant experiences.  As a forward-thinking property manager company, Maddie is pioneering innovative solutions that blend AI with human touch to optimize both operations and marketing outcomes. We also dive into GoldOller’s pivot towards a tech-centric approach, covering everything from AI-powered chatbots to integrated fraud detection systems. Maddie also explains how the company tackled challenges in adoption, change management, and measuring ROI while maintaining a strong focus on employee and tenant engagement. Key Topics & Highlights: Discover how AI tools like Elise AI are transforming leasing and tenant communication. Learn how to integrate AI and automation into your property management workflows without losing the human element. Explore how GoldOller streamlined marketing efforts through data-driven strategies and tech consolidation. Understand the role of AI in managing operational challenges, from lead generation to delinquency detection. Gain insights into the future of property management and how AI will shape its evolution. Digible:⁠ ⁠⁠https://digible.com/⁠⁠⁠ Fiona: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.myfiona.com/⁠⁠⁠ Leave a Spotify Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://spoti.fi/3LfoEdU⁠⁠⁠ Leave an Apple Review: ⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3AA2zRj⁠⁠ (00:00) Introduction to Maddie Grusendorf (02:57) Business Development Strategies  (04:19) Exhibiting at NAA for Brand Awareness (08:36) Digital Traffic and Marketing Strategy Insights (13:00) Innovation in Property Management (16:39) In-House vs. Outsourced Marketing (18:34) Use of KPI Dashboards in Marketing (20:27) Consolidating Marketing Platforms for Efficiency (22:07) Shifting from ILS to PPC Strategies (30:24) AI's Role in Leasing and Resident Relations (34:29) Rolling Out New Technologies Across Properties (36:51) New Fraud Detection Technologies (41:03) Lessons Learned in Property Management Innovation (47:28) Maddie's Bold Move: Dropping Apartments.com (53:09) Future of Property Management Technology

    55 min

About

The Digible Dudes podcast brings you weekly interviews with the most influential minds in the apartment marketing world. You will learn the inner workings of multifamily marketing so you can know exactly what’s happening. Each week, Reid Wicoff and David Staley sit down with guests that are at the front of multifamily marketing to share their stories. If you want to get ahead, this podcast is for you.

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