One Room at a Time

PadSplit

Welcome to One Room at a Time, where we explore the bold ideas, innovative policies, and real-world stories driving solutions to America’s housing affordability crisis. Hosted by Atticus LeBlanc, Founder & CEO of PadSplit, each episode features conversations with thought leaders, policymakers, property owners, and changemakers who are working—one room, one property, and one policy at a time—to expand housing access. Whether you’re a real estate professional, housing advocate, city leader, or simply passionate about solving the housing crisis, this show delivers fresh perspectives and actionable ideas that can make a difference.

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO · BONUS

    BONUS Ep: The Court Cases Affecting Coliving and the Golden Girls Bill with Pacific Legal Foundation

    In this bonus episode of One Room at a Time, hosted by Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, the discussion focuses on the past, present, and future constitutional battles surrounding shared housing. Atticus is joined by David Deerson, an attorney at Pacific Legal Foundation, who provides a comprehensive history of zoning laws, significant court cases such as Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co., Belle Terre v. Boraas, and more recent developments in states like Pennsylvania. They delve into the evolving legal interpretations of family definitions and intimate association, and the impact of these precedents on affordable housing. David also discusses the implications of the proposed Golden Girls Bill and shares his prognosis on the future of coliving legislation and legal challenges in the U.S. 00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time 00:25 The Legality of Coliving and Shared Housing 01:10 Guest Introduction: David Deerson from Pacific Legal Foundation 01:39 History and Mission of Pacific Legal Foundation 03:51 Zoning Policy and the Definition of Family 05:16 Supreme Court Cases on Zoning and Family Definitions 12:38 Thurgood Marshall's Dissent and Its Relevance Today 21:33 Recent Developments and Legal Challenges 30:52 The Golden Girls Bill and Model Policy 33:34 Future of Shared Housing Policy 39:53 Conclusion and Wrap-Up One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with David Deerson via email: DDeerson@pacificlegal.org References: Pacific Legal Foundation: https://pacificlegal.org/ Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co. (1926): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/272/365/ Village of Belle Terre v. Boraas (1974): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/416/1/Moore v. City of East Cleveland (1977): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/431/494/City of Cleburne v. Cleburne Living Center (1985): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/473/432/U.S. Department of Agriculture v. Moreno (1973): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/413/528/Doctrine of Intimate Association (via Roberts v. United States Jaycees, 1984): https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/468/609/li...

    41 min
  2. FEB 3

    Ep 06 Part 1: Who “real estate investors” really are and how they’re solving the housing shortage with New Western’s Kurt Carlton

    In this episode of One Room at a Time, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, and guest Kurt Carlton, co-founder and president of New Western, discuss the housing affordability crisis and the critical role real estate investors play in addressing it. They unpack who the true “real estate investors” are, highlighting how individuals are taking on risk to revitalize their own communities. The episode also touches on policy challenges, market dynamics, and the importance of local, small-scale investors in solving the housing supply problem. Listeners are encouraged to understand the true landscape of real estate investing and the value it brings to creating affordable housing solutions. 00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time 00:28 Meet Kurt Carlton: Co-Founder of New Western 01:49 The Beginnings of New Western 03:17 Challenges and Evolution in Real Estate 06:46 Understanding the Real Estate Marketplace 11:44 The Role of Small Real Estate Investors 16:28 Policy and Perception of Real Estate Investors 21:12 The Future of Housing and Partnerships 35:31 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Kurt Carlton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtcarlton/ References: PadSplit and New Western’s Partnership: https://www.padsplit.com/newwestern Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (NHIA): https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2854

    36 min
  3. JAN 20

    Ep 05 Part 2: The Biggest Barriers and Opportunities for Housing: A Policy Discussion with a Former HUD Deputy Secretary

    In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Pamela Hughes Patenaude. As a housing policy expert and former Deputy Secretary of HUD, Pam shares her proudest achievements, including the early adoption of accessory dwelling units in New Hampshire. The discussion covers trends in housing innovation, barriers to implementation, and potential solutions such as modular construction and better financing options for innovative housing types. Pam also shares insights on mentoring future housing leaders and the importance of federal, state, and local collaboration to address the housing crisis. The episode underscores the need for political courage and regulatory reform to make housing more affordable and accessible. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Pamela's Early Career and ADU Advocacy 02:00 Disaster Recovery and Housing Programs 04:48 Innovations in Housing Construction 09:36 Challenges in Housing Finance 13:29 Mentorship and Career Advice 18:19 Policy Collaboration and Solutions 28:22 Rapid Fire Q&A and Conclusion One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Pamela Hughes Patenaude on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-patenaude-9794847a/ References: ​New Hampshire ADUs: https://www.nhmunicipal.org/sites/default/files/uploads/Guidance_Documents/adus_guidance_revised.pdfCommunity Development Block Grants: https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/cdbg/Loan Depot: https://www.loandepot.com/Bipartisan Policy Center: https://bipartisanpolicy.org/Habitat for Humanity: https://www.habitat.org/Diplomat on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81288983Wilkes Insurrection and Blockchain Syndicate, by Robbie BachNational Association of Realtors Economic Housing Forecast: https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlookCatchlight Crossings in Orlando: https://catchlightcrossings.com/

    33 min
  4. 12/23/2025

    Ep 04 Part 2: How Leon Used the VA Loan to Purchase a Second PadSplit and Become His Own Boss

    In this episode of the One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Leon Orange, an Army veteran turned content creator and PadSplit host. Leon discusses how he utilized his VA loan to purchase his second PadSplit home, rent out rooms, and achieve financial independence with very little upfront costs. He shares his journey about buying his second home, using the profits to quit his job, and transitioning to his passion of running his own photography business. Leon’s story shows the American Dream of home ownership and financial freedom isn’t dead. He discusses how veterans and others can leverage similar strategies to build wealth, focusing on the pros and cons, and the importance of taking calculated steps toward financial empowerment. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 Leon's First VA Loan Experience 01:21 Expanding with a Second Property 03:29 Managing Multiple Properties 07:32 Transition to Full-Time Entrepreneurship 14:52 Advice for Aspiring Investors 16:30 Rapid Fire Questions 18:42 Conclusion and Farewell One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Leon Orange on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orangeismedia/  Leon’s Company: https://www.orangeismedia.com/  Leon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orangeismedia  References:  VA Home Loans: https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/ OIM Creative Studio: https://www.instagram.com/oimcreativestudio Rourke Heath YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rourkeheath

    20 min
  5. 12/09/2025

    Ep 04 Part 1: Using the VA Loan to House Hack and Live Rent-Free with Leon Orange

    In this episode of the One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, converses with Leon Orange, a 20-year Army veteran. Leon shares his inspiring journey from military service to real estate investment to creative entrepreneurship. Through his innovative use of financing his first PadSplit through a VA loan, Leon eliminated housing costs and began building wealth by renting out rooms, as an owner-occupant himself. He discusses the challenges and rewards of house hacking, offering practical advice for veterans and aspiring real estate investors. This episode provides valuable insights into leveraging VA loans, managing shared housing, and creating passive income streams. The discussion also highlights Leon's future plans and continued growth in the real estate industry. 00:00 Introduction to One Room at a Time Podcast 00:29 Meet Leon Orange: A Journey of Service and Entrepreneurship 01:42 From Military to Real Estate: Leon's Early Challenges 05:05 Discovering PadSplit: A Game-Changer 06:36 Leveraging VA Loans for Real Estate Success 19:15 Operational Insights and Lessons Learned 23:09 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Leon Orange on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orangeismedia/  Leon’s Company: https://www.orangeismedia.com/  Leon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orangeismedia  References:  VA Home Loans: https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/ OIM Creative Studio: https://www.instagram.com/oimcreativestudio

    24 min
  6. 11/25/2025

    Ep 03 Part 2: Is Coliving Right For You? The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly with PadSplit Host Heather Wren

    In this episode of The One Room at a Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues the conversation with Heather Wren, the first PadSplit host. Heather shares her experiences of transitioning from managing properties in Atlanta to scaling her investments from abroad. She discusses the upgrades and systems she implemented, how she found local help for property management, and how she continues to expand her portfolio while investing into her residents. Heather also talks about the empathy developed through hosting, the importance of hands-on management, and the evolving dynamics of the coliving property market. She shares inspiring stories, such as mentoring Kiara, a PadSplit member turned Host, and offers advice to prospective coliving hosts. The episode highlights both the personal and financial impacts of strategic property investment and management. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 00:29 Heather's Journey from Atlanta to Spain 02:42 Scaling the PadSplit Business 05:27 Becoming a Successful PadSplit Host 10:47 Training the Next Generation of Hosts 16:39 Rapid Fire Questions 21:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Heather Wren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-wren-870807b/  Heather’s new coliving services: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​ Heather’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​ References:  PadSplit Host Resources: https://www.padsplit.com/hosts Cook’s Illustrated Green Bean Casserole: https://www.americastestkitchen.com/recipes/3182-classic-green-bean-casseroleThe Best Cookbook: https://a.co/d/8pXSnh3 Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki: https://a.co/d/dDTOYzr Architect Santiago Calatrava: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santiago_Calatrava

    23 min
  7. 11/11/2025

    Ep 03 Part 1: Building Community and Financial Freedom with PadSplit’s First Host, Heather Wren

    In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, founder, and CEO of PadSplit, chats with his longtime friend and real estate partner, Heather Wren. Heather shares her journey from accidental landlord to a successful real estate investor with a portfolio of over 20 properties. The conversation highlights her initial struggles, lessons learned, and the transformative impact of coliving on her life and the lives of her tenants. From humorous anecdotes to touching human stories, Heather and Atticus delve into the unique challenges and rewards of coliving and community building. The episode also features inspiring stories about tenants like Amber, who went from living in her car to running a successful business and aspiring to become a property owner herself. 00:00 Introduction to the One Room at A Time Podcast 00:40 Meet Heather Wren: Accidental Landlord to Real Estate Investor 02:04 Heather's Early Real Estate Journey 04:49 Challenges and Lessons Learned 11:13 Discovering PadSplit and the First Prototype 12:28 Becoming a PadSplit Host 18:51 Human Stories and Community Impact 25:51 Amber's Transformation: From Homeless to Entrepreneur 31:29 Conclusion and What's Next One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Heather Wren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-wren-870807b/ ​ References: Heather’s new coliving services: https://www.colivingsuccess.com/Heather's new Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/colivingsuccess/​PadSplit Host Resources: https://www.padsplit.com/hosts B Squared Cleaners: https://www.bsquaredcleaners.com/ PadSplit Member Amber’s story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdradwnLVfo

    32 min
  8. 10/28/2025

    Ep 02 Part 2: How Do We Actually Reform Housing Policy? Insights from Zoning Whisperer, Eric Kronberg

    In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, host Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, continues his conversation with Eric Kronberg, a housing advocate and principal at Kronberg Urbanists + Architects. They delve into tactics for advocating better housing policy with city officials, including the significance of understanding development math. Eric discusses the importance of incremental change with various levels of policymakers and the flaws in current zoning codes. The episode highlights cities effectively implementing progressive housing policies and the potential role of AI taking shape at housing companies. Eric also shares his insights on the importance of public engagement and how even minimal participation can drive significant change. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:48 Incremental Development and Zoning Challenges 03:56 Overcoming Political and Social Barriers 09:18 State vs. Local Housing Policies 22:57 AI in Housing Reform 30:35 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Eric Kronberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kronberg-36289ba/  Learn more about Eric's company: kronbergua.com​ References:  Incremental Development Alliance​: https://www.incrementaldevelopment.org/ YIMBY Action: https://yimbyaction.org/ Abundant Housing Atlanta: https://abundanthousingatlanta.org/UCLA Housing Voice Podcast featuring Evan Mast: https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/2024/09/18/encore-episode-market-rate-development-and-neighborhood-rents-with-evan-mast/ Gov. Brian Kemp’s Office, Workforce Housing Grants: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-06-18/gov-kemp-announces-latest-workforce-housing-grant-awards Mercatus Center: https://www.mercatus.org/ American Legislative Exchange Council: https://alec.org/Sightline Institute: https://www.sightline.org/City of Thomasville, Ga. Planning and Zoning: https://thomasville.org/departments/planning-zoning City of Durham, N.C. Expanding Housing Choices: https://www.durhamnc.gov/3679/Expanding-Housing-Choices The Reactionary Mind by Corey Robin: a href="https://coreyrobin.com/books/the-reactionary-mind/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    38 min
  9. 10/21/2025

    Ep 02 Part 1: Unlocking “Attainable” Housing Solutions: An In-depth Discussion with Eric Kronberg

    In this episode of the One Room at A Time podcast, Atticus LeBlanc, founder and CEO of PadSplit, hosts Eric Kronberg from Kronberg Urbanists+Architects. They discuss the complexities of the housing crisis, exploring innovative and practical solutions through urban design and zoning reforms. Eric highlights the benefits of dense, attainable housing modeled after New Orleans' urban structure. Key topics include the financial advantages of small lot residential construction, the role of building codes, the inefficiencies of typical suburban zoning, and the critical need for rethinking parking and transportation to create sustainable and affordable housing. This episode is the first of a two-part series diving deep into housing policy and models for creating efficient, cost-effective housing solutions. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:54 Meet Eric Kronberg: Urban Design Visionary 02:41 New Orleans: A Model for Attainable Housing 05:53 The Economics of Density and Zoning 10:41 Challenges and Solutions in Housing Policy 15:04 The Cost of Parking and Infrastructure 22:04 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two One Room at a Time podcast: https://padsplit.com/podcast Connect with Atticus LeBlanc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atticus-leblanc-3960466/ Connect with Eric Kronberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kronberg-36289ba/ Learn more about Eric's company: kronbergua.com​ References: Urban3: https://www.urbanthree.com/Urban3 Principal Joe Minicozzi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-minicozzi-38269827/ Habitat for Humanity New Orleans: https://habitat-nola.org/ Shane Phillips, Housing Affordability Researcher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanedphillips/ UCLA Housing Voice Podcast: https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/programs/housing/ucla-housing-voice-podcast/ UCLA Housing Voice Podcast featuring Michael Eriksen and Anthony Orlando podcast episode: https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/2024/09/04/78-building-height-and-construction-costs-with-anthony-orlando/ Sanborn Maps: https://www.loc.gov/collections/sanborn-maps/about-this-collection/

    23 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to One Room at a Time, where we explore the bold ideas, innovative policies, and real-world stories driving solutions to America’s housing affordability crisis. Hosted by Atticus LeBlanc, Founder & CEO of PadSplit, each episode features conversations with thought leaders, policymakers, property owners, and changemakers who are working—one room, one property, and one policy at a time—to expand housing access. Whether you’re a real estate professional, housing advocate, city leader, or simply passionate about solving the housing crisis, this show delivers fresh perspectives and actionable ideas that can make a difference.