The Utility Room

Mary Nitschke
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Utilities touch everything: budgets, compliance, resident satisfaction — yet most operators still don’t have clear visibility. The Utility Room is a podcast for multifamily leaders who want practical conversations about energy, sustainability, and operations — from people who actually run buildings, shape policy, and invest in the future of multifamily. No theory. No guilt. Just real insight into saving time, reducing risk, and creating better outcomes for owners, operators, and residents. It’s a safe space where you’ll walk away with insights you can put into action.

  1. MAY 5

    17 - From Due Diligence to Disposition: Modeling the Building Lifecycle

    In this episode, Christopher Naismith https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophernaismith/and Mary Nitschke explore how energy markets are evolving, the importance of practical sustainability strategies, and how AI is transforming building performance modeling. He emphasizes that decarbonization is less about reaction and more about proactive capital planning. Buildings are like living organisms—each component has a 20-year life cycle, meaning regular modernization is essential. You can't simply retrofit in the moment; you must anticipate future technology shifts and code changes.Join us for insights on future-proofing multifamily assets and leveraging government incentives for financial gains.This episode is brought to you by Energy CX. Energy CX is a modern energy strategy firm built for volatility. We combine data, technology, and real market expertise to help businesses take control of one of their largest—and most unpredictable—operating costs. With more than 2 billion square feet under management across 20+ deregulated states, we’ve back tested and proven that our strategy consistently outperforms traditional procurement. Powered by ABEL™, our proprietary decision engine, we buy energy with the same discipline and timing as a trading desk—giving companies clarity, stability, and a long-term strategic advantage in every energy decision.To Learn More: https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awarenessChapters00:00 The Origin of Audette and Market Insights04:44 Understanding ESG: Challenges and Opportunities06:37 Decarbonization vs. Energy Efficiency: Key Distinctions09:31 Proactive Strategies for Future-Proofing Assets12:36 Leveraging Demand Response for Financial Benefits15:38 The Role of AI in Decarbonization Efforts🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#UtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #ESG #sustainability #decarbonization #energyefficiency

    22 min

  2. APR 28

    16 - The Hidden Math Behind Multifamily Sustainability

    In this episode, Dimitris Kapsis https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkapsis/ , Vice President of Energy Management at Fairfield Residential, shares his expertise on leveraging utility data for smarter energy management in multifamily properties. Discover actionable insights on data analysis, equipment upgrades, and measurement verification that can drive significant cost savings and operational efficiency.This episode is brought to you by Public Grid https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/.Public Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden.We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort.The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties.Learn more: https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroomTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Dimitris Kapsis’s background and expertise00:30 - Dimitris early career in energy management and real estate02:00 - The evolution of utility management systems with AUM03:36 - Data analytics in utility management and cost reductions04:51 - Industry perspective: Usage driving expense vs. expense driving usage05:56 - How to analyze and interpret energy consumption data06:25 - Weather versus baseline energy trends07:21 - Water usage as a distinct utility with different data considerations08:17 - Sensitivity of utility data to weather and equipment operation09:16 - Prioritizing equipment upgrades for maximum savings10:16 - Lifecycle analysis and proactive replacement strategies11:42 - Calculating ROI for HVAC and boiler replacements13:00 - The importance of third-party consultants and ROI benchmarks14:26 - Secondary benefits of equipment upgrades, including water and energy savings15:23 - Lighting retrofit success stories and curb appeal improvements16:30 - Strategies for effective lighting project implementation17:29 - Piecemeal projects versus comprehensive upgrades18:47 - Enhancing property curb appeal through lighting19:24 - The value of design, color, and lighting quality in retrofits20:28 - Measurement and verification (M&V) best practices21:25 - Addressing utility rate structures and flat sewer charges22:20 - Utility incentives, ROI considerations, and cost-benefit analysis23:17 - Prioritizing projects based on problem severity and ROI24:12 - The importance of precise metering and sub-metering26:25 - Analyzing specific utility points versus aggregate loads27:16 - Final thoughts and closing remarks🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #SustainableLiving #PropTech #Sustainability #WasteReduction #EnergyEfficiency

    31 min

  3. APR 21

    15 - From Trash Tours to BEPS Compliance

    Discover how sustainability leader, Elizabeth Lutz https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-lutz-9aa62325a/, drives environmental progress through community collaboration, innovative standards, and waste reduction strategies in this insightful episode. Gain a better understanding of BEPS, how to create successful collaborations around energy efficiency, and strategies to secure organization-wide sustainability support.This episode is brought to you by PlugOp https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/. EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. PlugOp is the expert, so you don't have to be.As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugOp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights.When it's time to build, PlugOp delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time.If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, PlugOp is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond.To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorshipChapters00:00 Sustainability Journey: From Awareness to Action05:56 Community and Collaboration in Sustainability09:08 Waste Management: Personal and Professional Insights11:54 Integrating Sustainability into Operations15:08 Building Trust and Communication for Success18:06 Future Goals: Waste and Energy Efficiency21:02 Advice for Advancing Sustainability Initiatives🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #SustainableLiving #PropTech #Sustainability #WasteReduction #EnergyEfficiency

    26 min

  4. APR 14

    14 - Climate, Law, and the Bottom Line

    In this eye-opening interview, Mary Nitschke speaks with Brad Allen Molotsky https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-a-molotsky-7401664/ , a real estate lawyer and expert on regulations, climate, and sustainability. They explore the current state of ESG, federal and state regulations, PFAS (Forever Chemicals), and practical strategies for multifamily operators to understand evolving environmental regulations and future risks and regulations that may impact their assets.This episode is brought to you by Energy CX. Energy CX is a modern energy strategy firm built for volatility. We combine data, technology, and real market expertise to help businesses take control of one of their largest—and most unpredictable—operating costs. With more than 2 billion square feet under management across 20+ deregulated states, we’ve back tested and proven that our strategy consistently outperforms traditional procurement. Powered by ABEL™, our proprietary decision engine, we buy energy with the same discipline and timing as a trading desk—giving companies clarity, stability, and a long-term strategic advantage in every energy decision.To Learn More: https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awarenessChapters00:00 Introduction to ESG and Multifamily04:20 Federal Government's Stance on Sustainability07:26 State-Level Initiatives and Regulations12:24 The Impact of PFAS (Forever Chemicals)19:21 Challenges in Multifamily28:15 Conclusion and Future Outlook#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #PropTech #sustainability #ESG #climaterisk

    30 min

  5. APR 7

    13 - The Human Side of ESG Isn't Optional

    In this engaging interview, industry veteran Mike Brewer https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebrewer/ shares his journey from single family real estate to multifamily operations, emphasizing the importance of human-centric leadership, data utilization, and the evolving role of AI in the industry. Discover insights on balancing profit with social responsibility, leveraging utility data, and fostering meaningful relationships in a tech-driven world.This episode is brought to you by Public Grid https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/.Public Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden.We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort.The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties.Learn more: https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroomChapters00:00 The Origin Story: Unveiling Superpowers05:20 The Drive Behind the Journey: Motivation and Growth08:13 Balancing People and Profit: The Accountability Factor11:18 The Evolution of Data: Insights from Utility Management14:18 Coexisting with AI: Enhancing Human Relationships17:27 Legacy and Impact: Changing the Multifamily Industry🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #PropTech #AIinMultifamily #leadership #humancentric

    23 min

  6. MAR 31

    12 - Buildings Can Become Power Plants

    In this engaging conversation, Josh Felser https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshfelser/ shares his journey from digital media to climate tech, emphasizing the importance of utility management, electrification, and innovative solutions like vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology in multifamily housing. Find out why this innovation is critical for accelerating the transition to renewable energy and what it means for energy bills—and for the planet. This episode is essential listening for tech enthusiasts, green energy supporters, and EV owners eager to turn their vehicles into active allies in climate change solutions.This episode is brought to you by PlugOp https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/. EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. PlugOp is the expert, so you don't have to be.As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugOp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights.When it's time to build, PlugOp delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time.If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, PlugOp is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond.To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorshipChapters00:00 Introduction to Utility Management and Climate Action03:59 Josh Felser's Journey into Climate and Sustainability07:03 Challenges in Utility Management and Regulatory Hurdles08:13 On-Site Solar in Multifamily11:44 The Importance of Energy Storage Solutions13:54 Innovations in Vehicle-to-Grid Technology21:23 Personal Experiences with Multifamily Energy Solutions28:02 The Human Element in Energy Transition🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #SustainableLiving #PropTech #EVInfastructuve #V2G #EnergyStorage #SmartGrid #ClimateTech

    31 min

  7. MAR 24

    11 - The Monster of Net Zero Has a Child

    In this insightful interview, Cass McFadden https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassmcfadden/ , VP of Sustainability at Cortland, shares her journey of growing up in Guam and how it kickstarted her passion in multifamily sustainability. She discusses the challenges of decarbonization, the importance of collaboration, and innovative strategies to achieve net zero emissions in the multifamily industry.This episode is brought to you by Energy CX. Energy CX is a modern energy strategy firm built for volatility. We combine data, technology, and real market expertise to help businesses take control of one of their largest—and most unpredictable—operating costs. With more than 2 billion square feet under management across 20+ deregulated states, we’ve back tested and proven that our strategy consistently outperforms traditional procurement. Powered by ABEL™, our proprietary decision engine, we buy energy with the same discipline and timing as a trading desk—giving companies clarity, stability, and a long-term strategic advantage in every energy decision.To Learn More: https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awarenessChapters00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Multifamily Housing03:34 Cass McFadden's Origin Story and Motivation09:34 The Role of Collaboration in Sustainability Initiatives15:21 Challenges in Achieving Net Zero21:30 The Future of Sustainability Practitioners🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #PropTech #NetZero #Sustainability #ESG #ClimateAction

    25 min

  8. MAR 17

    10 - Sustainability That Actually Pencils: CAPEX, Payback, and Execution Gaps

    Ryan Yetzer https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanyetzer/, founder of Full Scope Asset Optimization, shares insights on sustainability strategies for property owners, focusing on quick wins, building performance standards, and integrating technology for decarbonization. Learn how to optimize asset performance, navigate regulations, and ensure stakeholder buy-in for successful sustainability projects.This episode is brought to you by Public Grid. https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroomPublic Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden.We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort.The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Real Estate02:21 Maximizing Sustainability Investments05:22 Building Performance Standards and CAPEX10:27 Challenges in Execution and Data Utilization13:21 Lessons Learned from Past Projects18:00 Creating Win-Win Scenarios in Sustainability21:21 Future Technologies in Sustainability🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!#TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #PropTech #EnergyEfficiency #BuildingPerformance #GreenTech #BEPS #ESG #LEED

    26 min
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About

Utilities touch everything: budgets, compliance, resident satisfaction — yet most operators still don’t have clear visibility. The Utility Room is a podcast for multifamily leaders who want practical conversations about energy, sustainability, and operations — from people who actually run buildings, shape policy, and invest in the future of multifamily. No theory. No guilt. Just real insight into saving time, reducing risk, and creating better outcomes for owners, operators, and residents. It’s a safe space where you’ll walk away with insights you can put into action.

Information

  • Creator
    Mary Nitschke
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mary Nitschke
  • Show Website
    The Utility Room