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. 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/

    34 min

  2. 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

    41 min

  3. 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.

    25 min

  4. 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

    48 min

  5. 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

    30 min

  6. JAN 23

    Building People First: How Wes Palmisano Is Redefining Construction Culture, Branding, and Growth

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini sit down with Wes Palmisano, Founder and CEO of RNGD, to explore what it truly means to build a construction company where people, culture, and brand drive growth. Wes shares how RNGD evolved from a young startup into a regional construction powerhouse by investing in company culture, leadership development, and marketing with the same intentionality as operations. From publishing five internal culture books to launching the Renegade Academy, building a $25M training-center-focused headquarters, and creating a nonprofit foundation tied directly to workforce development, RNGD has redefined what modern construction leadership looks like. This conversation goes deep into how branding creates trust, why culture is a competitive advantage in the construction industry, and how leaders can scale without losing authenticity. Wes also reflects on lessons learned, including early branding missteps, the shift from a house of brands to a unified identity, and why growth must pause at times to protect values and alignment. If you’re a leader in construction, AEC, real estate development, or any people-driven organization, this episode offers a practical and inspiring look at how intentional culture, storytelling, and community engagement fuel long-term success. Key topics include: Construction branding and marketing strategyBuilding and scaling company cultureLeadership development and workforce trainingROI of brand and culture investmentsCommunity engagement and nonprofit impactAuthentic growth in the AEC industry Whether you’re growing a construction firm, leading a team through change, or rethinking how culture supports performance, this episode delivers real-world insight from one of the industry’s most forward-thinking leaders. www.rngd.com

    34 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    Risk, Restoration, and Resilience: The Story of The Josephine with Mimi Spiehler

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, developer and designer Mimi Spiehler shares how she (and her brother David Fuselier) transformed a 1925 Spanish Colonial Revival church in Uptown New Orleans into The Josephine, an immersive cultural venue that blends historic preservation, digital projection mapping, and community-centered programming. Mimi opens up about what it means to be a woman leading large-scale projects in construction and real estate development, navigating gender dynamics on the job site, and building workplace confidence in male-dominated spaces. She and hosts Rachel Ledet and Christianne Brunini explore how women’s perspectives, attention to detail, and communication styles shape better outcomes—for projects, teams, and communities. If you care about women’s roles in the construction industry, empowerment, professional growth, and how design, storytelling, and courage can revive sacred spaces, this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways Women’s empowerment in construction: Mimi shares how she built confidence as one of the few women in her construction management classes and on job sites, and how she’s learned to hold her ground in male-dominated rooms.Gender dynamics & leadership: The episode explores how women are often conditioned to “be agreeable,” and how recognizing those patterns helps women navigate power dynamics and advocate for their ideas.Workplace confidence grows with experience: Mimi explains how knowledge, repetition, and learning from mistakes over nearly two decades in the industry have strengthened her voice and leadership style.Women bring a different lens to projects: From communication to detail orientation, Mimi highlights the unique insights women bring to design, development, and client relationships.Reviving The Josephine as a community hub: Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the structural challenges, design decisions, and risk-taking involved in turning a decaying church into a vibrant cultural venue for weddings, concerts, yoga, theater, and neighborhood gatherings.Innovation meets heritage: The team discusses how digital projection mapping, thoughtful naming, and storytelling allow The Josephine to honor its sacred history while offering a modern, immersive experience.Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship: Mimi talks candidly about being a mom of three while running complex projects, and how trusting her instincts has guided her professional growth.Courage to keep going: From sleepless nights to unexpected construction surprises, Mimi’s story underscores that big visions require resilience, partnership, and the belief that “if it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” You can learn more about The Josephine, visit online https://www.thejosephinenola.com/

    21 min

  8. 12/09/2025

    When Architecture Works: Les Maisons de Bayou Lafourche and the Future of Resilient Housing

    In this episode of The Comms Exchange, architect Steve Rome, partner at VergesRome Architects, joins host Rachel Ledet and co-host Christianne Brunini to explore what resilient design really looks like on the Gulf Coast. Steve walks through the story of Les Maisons de Bayou Lafourche, a $9.5M affordable housing community in Lockport, Louisiana, designed with Fortified Gold, Enterprise Green, and Energy Star certifications—and then tested in real time by Hurricane Ida. While surrounding neighborhoods suffered catastrophic damage, Les Maisons de Bayou Lafourche experienced minimal impact, proving how intentional architecture, rigorous quality control, and sustainable building practices can transform hurricane preparedness and community resilience. The conversation covers how empathy, equity, and foresight inform good design, why certifications should be more than a box-checking exercise, and how travel, reading, and continuous learning keep architects sharp. If you care about architecture, resilient communities, affordable housing, or climate-smart design, this episode offers a powerful case study and practical insight. Key Takeaways Resilience as a design mandate: Les Maisons de Bayou Lafourche was intentionally designed for major storm events, showing how architecture can change outcomes in disaster-prone regions.Fortified Gold as a process, not a plaque: Fortified Gold, Enterprise Green, and Energy Star demanded strict documentation, construction oversight, and quality control from foundation to roof.Beauty and strength can coexist: Vernacular Gulf Coast design, front porches, and neighborhood-friendly aesthetics can align with high-performance, hurricane-ready construction.Collaboration is essential: Close partnership among architect, developer, and contractor kept the project on budget while honoring resilience goals.Community resilience starts with buildings: Housing that can be quickly reoccupied after a storm helps preserve jobs, social networks, and neighborhood stability.Quality control pays off: Careful detailing on roof decking, structural connections, and systems resulted in less than $4,000 in storm-related damage on a roughly $9.5M project.Lifelong learning matters: Steve credits reading, travel, and curiosity with expanding his perspective as a designer—and encourages young architects to do the same. Steve Rome’s Reading List: No Compromise: The Work of Florence Knoll https://a.co/d/b9xwEcu If Walls Could Speak: My Life in Architecture https://a.co/d/apskVS5 The Pillars of the Earth (Kingsbridge) https://a.co/d/bkkOWL6 You Say to Brick: The Life of Louis Kahn https://a.co/d/3pgYQ2f   You can learn more about VergesRome Architects at www.vergesrome.com

    25 min
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5
out of 5
11 Ratings

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
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Rachel Ledet