Stories Behind the Door

Thaddeus Campbell
  • 5.0 (5)
  • INVESTING
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Self-storage isn't just square footage — it's a booming industry powered by smart operators, bold investors, sharp brokers, and everyday people making things happen. Hosted by Thaddeus Campbell, Stories Behind the Door pulls back the curtain on the real players behind the deals, developments, and day-to-day grind. Every week, we sit down with the people who are shaping the future of storage and flex space — one story at a time. If you're in the business or thinking about getting in, this is your front-row seat.

  1. Ken Woolley shares his incredible journey over 56 years in storage.

    12H AGO

    Ken Woolley shares his incredible journey over 56 years in storage.

    I sit down with Ken Woolley, the visionary Founder of Extra Space Storage, for a masterclass in industry history and leadership philosophy. Ken has been in the self-storage game for 56 years, witnessing the asset class transform from niche "garage rentals" into a mainstream institutional power player . Ken shares incredible stories from the early days, including his time as a management consultant in Boston and his 1973 study of the only 26 storage properties in Los Angeles . We discuss the current "tight spot" the industry finds itself in with cap rate shifts and excess supply, and why he remains bullish on the long-term demand driven by American consumerism . Key Takeaways from this Episode: Historical Context: How storage has evolved from $5/sq. ft. hard costs and 14% interest rates in the early 80s to the complex developments of today . The "Win-Win" Business Model: Why Ken rejected the idea that business is divided into "screwers and screwees," choosing instead to lead with kindness and partnership . Market Trends for 2026: Ken's take on why the Northeast and Midwest are currently stronger than the Sun Belt due to supply absorption . Acquisition Strategy: How Extra Space continues to deploy capital—buying $1.2 billion in 2025—despite a challenging stock and debt environment . Development Barriers: Why building in "tough" markets like Boston, New York, and California creates a long-term "quasi-monopoly" and superior cash flow . If you want to understand the soul of the storage industry, this conversation with one of its primary architects is essential listening. Connect with Thaddeus Campbell (S3 Partners): https://www.s3.partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ thaddeus@s3.partners Connect with Kenneth Woolley (Extra Space Storage): https://www.extraspace.com kwoolley@extraspace.com This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com

    30 min
  2. Brett Turner carved out a niche in Small Bay Industrial that has paid big dividends.

    FEB 4

    Brett Turner carved out a niche in Small Bay Industrial that has paid big dividends.

    I sit down with Brett Turner, Senior Managing Director at BKM Capital Partners, for a masterclass in small bay industrial investment. Brett and his team are currently managing approximately $3.4 billion in AUM, specializing in multi-tenant industrial parks . In this conversation, we discuss why this asset class is incredibly difficult to manage but yields massive rewards for those who are vertically integrated. We explore the "replacement cost" gap that makes ground-up development nearly impossible to pencil, the shifting demand from small businesses, and why the current interest rate environment is creating a "perfect setup" for cash-flow-focused investors. Key Takeaways from this Episode: Outcome over Interaction: How technology has minimized the space requirements for manufacturers while increasing the need for nimble, "last-mile" locations . Market Trends: A look at why BKM is heavily deploying capital into Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, and Phoenix, while still finding AI-driven opportunities in Northern California . Management-Intensive Assets: Why large institutions like JP Morgan are finally taking positions in this space but still need expert managers to handle the 200+ tenants per park. Sustainable Growth: Why the industry is moving away from "steroid-level" 35% rent growth back toward healthy, inflation-beating rates . Personal Discipline: Brett's perspective on being a competitive bodybuilder and how high-stakes fitness translates into high-stakes fund management . If you are an investor or developer looking to understand where the "arbitrage" is in commercial real estate today, Brett Turner's insights from the front lines of BKM are essential listening. Connect with Brett Turner: Email: bturner@bkmcp.com Website: www.bkmcapitalpartners.com Connect with Thaddeus Campbell: Website: https://s3.partners/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    29 min
  3. Cory Sylvester built the leading Storage Development team in the most challenging environment

    JAN 28

    Cory Sylvester built the leading Storage Development team in the most challenging environment

    I sit down with Cory Sylvester, Principal at DXD Capital, for a masterclass in data-driven development and intentional leadership. Cory's path to becoming one of the most respected names in self-storage didn't start with real estate; it started at JP Morgan. After identifying a massive lack of institutional-grade data in the storage sector, Cory co-founded Radius+ and eventually DXD Capital, a firm currently managing 25 active developments. We discuss his transition from the "bureaucratic construct" of big banks to the high-friction world of entrepreneurship, ultra-marathons, and volunteer firefighting. Key Takeaways from this Episode: The "Victor" Mindset: Why Cory would rather fail a hundred times than be stifled by corporate red tape. Leading by Listening: The importance of checking your ego and creating a culture where employees feel safe enough to truly disconnect. The Friction Factor: Why Cory packs his schedule with ultra-marathons (like the Tahoe 200) and firefighting to build the mental toughness required for business. 2026 Industry Forecast: Why the decline in new construction and the resilience of younger storage users are creating the "perfect setup" for the next several years. Manage Space: A sneak peek into Cory's newest venture into property management software. If you want to hear from a leader who values "right vs. wrong" over "yelling and jerks," and who uses deep-dive analytics to outmaneuver the market, this conversation is essential for your 2026 strategy. Connect with Thaddeus Campbell (S3 Partners): https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ Connect with Cory Sylvester (DXD Capital): cory@dxd.capital https://dxd.capital This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    34 min
  4. Andrew Capranos and 10 Federal are leading the charge to increase customer experience through Tech.

    JAN 21

    Andrew Capranos and 10 Federal are leading the charge to increase customer experience through Tech.

    I sit down with Andrew Capranos, President of 10 Federal, to discuss the intersection of high-level operations and cutting-edge technology in self-storage. Andrew's journey is a masterclass in efficiency. After managing retail teams of 400+ people at Target, he realized the incredible potential of the storage industry's margins—if you can get the operations right. We discuss his time at Public Storage, the birth of DaVinci Access Control, and the 10 Federal philosophy that "Customers want outcomes, not interactions." Key Takeaways from this Episode: The Necessity of Automation: Why a looming national labor shortage makes manual, on-site management a high-risk strategy for the next decade. Leading Indicators: Why looking at your past P&L is like driving with only a rearview mirror, and how to use data to predict future performance. Frictionless CX: How the hotel and airline industries have trained our customers to expect self-service, and why storage must adapt or die. Buying Right: Andrew shares how his team is successfully deploying capital in 2026 by finding value-add targets that others miss. Innovation vs. Expense: Why technology should be viewed as a profit driver, not a line-item cost. If you're interested in how AI and machine learning are moving from "buzzwords" to "bottom-line boosters," this conversation with Andrew is essential listening. Connect with Thaddeus Campbell (S3 Partners): thaddeus@s3.partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ Connect with Andrew Capranos acapranos@10federal.com www.10federalstorage.com This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    31 min
  5. Storage Authority is bringing the Playbook for success in Storage to busy professionals.

    JAN 14

    Storage Authority is bringing the Playbook for success in Storage to busy professionals.

    I sit down with Marc Goodin, CEO and President of Storage Authority, to pull back the curtain on one of the most successful franchise models in the self-storage industry. Marc isn't just a developer; he's a civil engineer who has spent four decades learning exactly what makes a facility succeed. He shares why he decided to stop "retiring" and instead start helping other professionals build wealth through his proven system. We talk about the "scary" headlines of 2026, the reality of SBA financing, and why he believes a self-storage facility should be run with the same hospitality mindset as a high-end hotel. You will learn: Why you can no longer be a "C-student" operator and expect to scale in today's market. How Marc's team helps franchisees navigate the "headache" of the SBA loan process through established relationships. Why the customer has often made their decision to rent before they even walk into your office. The advantage smaller, more nimble operators have when adopting new technology compared to the 4,000-store giants. Why the current lull in "mad rush" development is the perfect time for serious players to find and build Class-A sites. If you've ever wondered if you have what it takes to own a storage facility while keeping your day job, Marc's insights on systems and standards are exactly what you need to hear. Connect with Thaddeus Campbell: thaddeus@s3.partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ Connect with Marc Goodin: marc@storageasset.com www.storageauthorityfranchise.com This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    34 min
  6. You need to hear the incredible journey of Sydnie Wilda and the courage she carries into Self Storage.

    JAN 7

    You need to hear the incredible journey of Sydnie Wilda and the courage she carries into Self Storage.

    How do you transition from a "stay-at-home mom" opportunity to becoming a senator for the SSA Young Leaders Group and a director at a top management firm? This week, Thaddeus Campbell talks with Sydnie Wilda, RV & Boat Development Director at The Storage Manager. Sydnie shares her powerful journey of overcoming personal adversity by choosing to be a "survivor" rather than a victim—a mindset she has carried into her career as a powerhouse in self-storage. She discusses the shifting landscape of third-party management as we enter 2026 and why the "human touch" is more valuable now than ever. Key Takeaways from this Episode: Boutique Third-Party Management: Why the goal isn't to manage 200+ facilities, but to monitor every asset as if it were your own. The 2026 Tech Stack: Insights into Notify, Storage Defender, and Spider Door, and how these tools are transitioning the industry into the next generation. Legislative Awareness: Why donating your time to organizations like the SSA is critical for protecting the industry from over-regulation. Marriage as a Partnership: A raw look at the conscious choice to support each other's dreams while raising a young family. Advice for Owners: Why holding your operational problems "close to your chest" is a mistake and where to find the guidebook for success. Whether you're a young professional looking to break into leadership or an owner navigating the complexities of 2026, Sydnie's infectious energy and tactical advice are exactly what you need to hear. Connect with Sydnie Wilda: Email: sydnie.wilda@thestoragemanager.com Website: https://www.thestoragemanager.com Connect with Thaddeus Campbell: Website: https://s3.partners/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    31 min
  7. A 30 Year Legacy Wayne Woolsey is a Legend in Self Storage after 30 Years of Always Getting it Done

    12/24/2025

    A 30 Year Legacy Wayne Woolsey is a Legend in Self Storage after 30 Years of Always Getting it Done

    What does it take to build a construction company that thrives for over 30 years? According to Wayne Woolsey, President and CEO of Kiwi II Construction, it's simple: You have to be willing to "cook the meal" instead of microwaving it. In this episode, Wayne joins Thaddeus Campbell to share his journey from retrofitting public storage facilities after the Northridge earthquake to leading one of the most respected steel firms in the country . Wayne discusses the "steroid era" of storage, his predictions for steel pricing in 2026, and why he believes the industry's unique "if you succeed, I succeed" culture is its greatest asset . Key Takeaways: The 2026 Steel Forecast: Wayne breaks down why current steel prices (around $900/ton) are providing the consistency developers need to pencil projects for the coming year . Relationship ROI: Why 50% of the Kiwi II team has been with the company for over a decade and why Wayne's cell phone number hasn't changed in 30 years . Beyond the Shed: The evolution of steel aesthetics—from basic 1980s panels to modern insulated metal panels (IMPs) that look like brick and high-end masonry . The Flex Growth: How the "Small Bay Industrial Flex" and "Man Cave" segments are creating new opportunities for diverse steel designs . Connect with Wayne Woolsey: Email: wayne@kiwiconstruction.com Website: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com Connect with Thaddeus Campbell: Website: https://s3.partners/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ This episode was brought to you by: https://www.kiwiconstruction.com/

    31 min
  8. Hard work paid off in a massive way for Rob Kapp, Founder of KISS Locks. Even if it took two decades.

    12/17/2025

    Hard work paid off in a massive way for Rob Kapp, Founder of KISS Locks. Even if it took two decades.

    I talk to Rob Kapp, President of Keep It Simple Storage, about his path from a "get rich slow game" entrepreneur to the inventor of the revolutionary KISS Lock. Rob's story is one of hard-won success: he committed to a multi-decade journey, even selling his home to reinvest in real estate . His burnout from managing facilities led to the idea for the KISS Lock, a smart lock with no batteries that's powered by your phone's NFC technology . Why This Matters to Operators: Cost Revolution: The lock eliminates the massive expense of installing electricity to every unit door in a new build . Operational Efficiency: It solves fragmented issues like overlocking, unlocking, and auction management, simplifying the entire process . Critical Inflection Point: Rob warns that the industry has matured. Operators must be willing to make the painful change to adopt new technology or risk being "pushed out" by more sophisticated competitors. The days of being an average operator and still making big margins are over . Connect with Thaddeus Campbell: Email: thaddeus@s3.partners Website: https://s3.partners/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsthadcampbell/ Connect with Rob Kapp: Email: ob@keepitsimplestorage.com Website: https://keepitsimplestorage.com

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Self-storage isn't just square footage — it's a booming industry powered by smart operators, bold investors, sharp brokers, and everyday people making things happen. Hosted by Thaddeus Campbell, Stories Behind the Door pulls back the curtain on the real players behind the deals, developments, and day-to-day grind. Every week, we sit down with the people who are shaping the future of storage and flex space — one story at a time. If you're in the business or thinking about getting in, this is your front-row seat.

Information

  • Creator
    Thaddeus Campbell
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Stories Behind the Door

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